Author: On Common Ground News

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…

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA – A Florida man who shot a Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Deputy after stealing a car and leading officers on a high-speed chase received a 110-year sentence. James Edward Perkins, 38, was found guilty of five counts of aggravated assault on a peace officer, theft by receiving a stolen vehicle, theft by receiving a stolen firearm, interference with government property, criminal damage to government property, fleeing and attempting to elude a police officer, criminal use of an article with an altered identification mark, and terroristic threats for the June 2022 shooting incident that left Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Sgt.…

DEKALB COUNTY, GA – In response to continued high temperatures, DeKalb County, in partnership with local service providers, are making  day centers available to assist vulnerable residents seeking relief from the extreme heat. County officials encourage those in need to take advantage of the centers and wrap-around services during operating hours. The following facilities are currently available and open during normal operating hours: South DeKalb Day Center at New Life Community Alliance – 3592 Flat Shoals Rd., Decatur GA 30034 Frontline Response – 2585 Gresham Rd., Atlanta, GA 30316 Peace Baptist Church Annex – 3999 Covington Highway, Decatur, GA 30032 Golden Door…

State Rep.Rhonda Taylor, who represents Georgia’s House District 92, announced in her June 30 online newsletter key laws that will become effective in Georgia  on July 1. Take a look at how those new laws will impact you and learn more about dozens of others at the link provided.