Gwinnett News Report

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — Gwinnett County is set to honor Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month with a vibrant evening dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage, diverse culture, and significant contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. The much-anticipated event for 2026 will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on October 9, and will be held on the scenic lawn of the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center, conveniently located near the Nash Street parking deck.

This year, the celebration carries the theme “Rooted in Heritage, United in Gwinnett,” encapsulating the essence of unity and the shared values that bring together the community. The event aims to shine a spotlight on the voices and stories of Hispanic and Latino individuals who are actively shaping various sectors, including education, business, arts, and community development across Gwinnett County.

Attendees can look forward to a delightful array of cultural cuisines, showcasing traditional dishes that reflect the culinary diversity of the Hispanic and Latino cultures. The evening will also feature captivating performances, including music and dance, which illustrate the rich traditions and artistic expressions of these communities.

Gwinnett County officials warmly invite all residents to join in this celebration and immerse themselves in the cultural traditions and achievements represented in the community. This gathering promises to be a unique opportunity for participants to celebrate unity, learn from one another, and foster connections among diverse groups.

Individuals interested in attending are encouraged to reserve their spots in advance. For more details and to secure a reservation, residents can visit the county’s official website at GwinnettCounty.com/HLHM, where additional information about the event can also be found.

DULUTH, Ga. — Get ready for a canine-centric celebration this Saturday as Downtown Duluth transforms into a haven for dog lovers during Dogtoberfest. This highly anticipated event is set to commence from 5 to 9 p.m., offering an exciting evening filled with live music, delicious food options, engaging games, and a variety of dog-friendly activities for attendees and their furry companions.

The festivities will kick off with live performances by The Dynamo Dogs, taking the stage at both 5:30 and 7 p.m. Their lively tunes are sure to entertain crowds, while the Atlanta Event Music Dogtoberfest Ensemble will provide a backdrop of festive melodies throughout the event. As the night progresses, attendees can participate in Oktoberfest-themed games starting at 7:30 p.m., adding to the fun ambiance.

Dog owners are encouraged to bring their pets to enjoy a selection of engaging activities. Throughout the evening, enjoy numerous photo opportunities to capture special moments, plus booths featuring dog vendors offering unique products and treats for your four-legged friends. Don’t miss out on the free pup cups available while supplies last, perfect for keeping your pup cool and refreshed!

Food lovers will also be in for a treat, with a variety of food vendors set up to tempt your taste buds. Enjoy savory selections from Different Twist Pretzels, indulge in flavorful delights from La Escalara, savor sweet treats from King of Pops, and experience the deliciousness of MB Roasted Corn.

For those looking for a bit more adventure, the event will feature free axe throwing, adding an exciting twist to the evening’s activities. Dogtoberfest is more than just an event; it’s an opportunity for residents and their dogs to come together in a vibrant community setting, enjoying entertainment, socializing, and celebrating Oktoberfest-themed activities.

Organizers warmly invite locals to bring their dogs and join the fun in downtown Duluth. For additional information on Dogtoberfest and other upcoming city events, visit DuluthGA.net/events. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the bond between humans and their furry friends!

WASHINGTON — A video circulating across various online platforms appears to depict President Donald Trump with his eyes closed for extended periods during a meeting in the Oval Office with key administration officials. This footage has sparked renewed scrutiny regarding Trump’s public appearances and his overall demeanor at official events.

The video, reportedly recorded during an afternoon announcement, features Trump seated alongside several officials, including Energy Secretary Chris Wright, who was addressing the gathering. Throughout Wright’s remarks, segments of the video show Trump with his eyes seemingly shut, while his head and posture shift noticeably, prompting speculation about his engagement during the discussion.

As the video gained traction on social media, many users interpreted Trump’s appearance as an indication that he was dozing off, with some phrases like “nodding off” trending among commentators. However, it is important to note that these characterizations are largely subjective interpretations and do not definitively explain the reasons for Trump’s closed eyes or identify what he might have been experiencing at that moment.

This incident has reignited discussions related to former President Joe Biden, who has previously faced similar critiques from Trump and his allies, with the latter dubbing him “Sleepy Joe” during the ongoing 2024 presidential campaign. The juxtaposition of the two presidents’ public images has become a focal point for political discourse, with opponents on both sides leveraging these moments to bolster their narratives.

In response to inquiries about Trump’s energy levels and schedule, the White House has consistently defended him, emphasizing the rigorous demands of the presidency and pointing to his extensive public itinerary, which has remained busy throughout his tenure.

The emergence of this latest video has also triggered broader conversations about the nature of presidential appearances and the impact of brief clips from official events as they quickly circulate on platforms like Twitter and Facebook. Such dissemination raises questions about how context is often lost in the rapid-sharing culture of social media.

It’s worth mentioning that Gwinnett News Report has yet to independently verify the circumstances surrounding the footage or ascertain the specific reasons behind Trump having his eyes closed during this meeting.

DULUTH, Ga. — Residents and visitors navigating the downtown area of Duluth should anticipate road closures this weekend, as the city prepares for the highly anticipated Duluth Fall Festival. This annual event is a beloved tradition that highlights the community’s spirit and brings together locals and visitors alike.

According to the Duluth Police Department, W. Lawrenceville Street will be closed between Hill Street and Main Street starting at approximately 3 p.m. on Friday. Crews and festival organizers will be actively setting up for the weekend’s festivities, which are expected to attract a large number of attendees.

Motorists are advised that the road closure will likely disrupt traffic flow in the downtown area. To mitigate any inconvenience, drivers should plan their routes in advance, explore alternate roads, and anticipate potential delays during the closure.

In addition, police are urging both drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution in and around the festival area. With a significant increase in foot traffic anticipated, it is crucial to pay attention to posted signs and follow the directions provided by law enforcement officers and event personnel to ensure everyone’s safety.

The Duluth Fall Festival, set to take place on Saturday and Sunday, promises a weekend filled with family-friendly fun and entertainment. The festival will showcase over 180 vendors, offering a variety of goods and foods, live musical performances, a vibrant parade, and numerous activities designed for attendees of all ages.

The organizers have marketed this event as a prime opportunity for community engagement, celebrating local talent and culture through diverse offerings. The road closure is a necessary measure to ensure the smooth operation of the festival activities and to safely accommodate the expected surge in both pedestrian and vehicle traffic in downtown Duluth.

Residents and visitors planning to traverse the area during this time are encouraged to check traffic conditions prior to leaving their homes and consider alternative routes to avoid any disruptions caused by the festival preparations.

For the latest updates and detailed information regarding the Duluth Fall Festival, including schedules and vendor lists, individuals can visit the official festival website at duluthfallfestival.org.

Strategy, the company formerly known as MicroStrategy, has announced a proposal seeking significant changes to four of its preferred stock series. These series, designated as STRF, STRC, STRK, and STRD, are set to transition to a daily dividend-accrual structure, as outlined in recent communications from the company.

Under the proposed modifications, dividends for these preferred stocks would accrue on a daily basis, with payments scheduled for the business day immediately following the accrual period. This shift aims to enhance the investment experience for shareholders by providing a more fluid and continuous dividend distribution model.

Michael Saylor, the Executive Chairman of Strategy, emphasized that these changes are part of a broader initiative to cultivate a more adaptable structure for the preferred securities. This initiative is anticipated to heighten both liquidity and market demand for these financial instruments. In this context, CEO Phong Le referred to the proposal as a strategic move in what he termed an “era of always-on capital markets,” highlighting the company’s commitment to innovation in financial practices.

The preferred stock series in question plays a crucial role in Strategy’s overarching corporate financing strategy, which is intricately linked to the company’s Bitcoin-centric treasury framework. Strategy has actively utilized a variety of financial instruments to secure capital aimed at enhancing its Bitcoin holdings, indicating a deepening integration of cryptocurrency within its financial strategy.

Shareholders will have the opportunity to vote on these proposed changes during an upcoming virtual meeting scheduled for October 28. Should the shareholders give their approval, the STRC series is positioned to adopt the new dividend structure as early as November, while the other preferred stock series are expected to transition to the new format by January 2027.

The alterations to the dividend accrual process are intended to provide greater support for liquidity and demand for the affected preferred stocks. However, it is important to note that the anticipated outcomes of the proposed changes are not guaranteed; they will ultimately depend on prevailing market conditions, the level of investor engagement, and the performance of the securities themselves.

Overall, Strategy’s ongoing commitment to incorporating Bitcoin into its corporate treasury strategy has driven it to continue leveraging capital markets for funding additional acquisitions of the cryptocurrency, illustrating its proactive stance in navigating the evolving financial landscape.

WASHINGTON — In a recent post on Truth Social dated September 25, 2026, President Donald Trump reflected on a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, revealing that they engaged in discussions about the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, among other pressing global issues. During this meeting, Trump introduced a new term he coined, “SUPER INTELLIGENCE,” which he claims resonates more accurately with the capabilities of advanced AI systems.

In the post, Trump expressed that both leaders found merit in rebranding artificial intelligence, which he referred to as “poorly and inaccurately named.” He stated, “Like almost everyone else, he seemed to like calling the poorly and inaccurately named Artificial Intelligence to a far more accurate and important name, SUPER INTELLIGENCE.” This new terminology, according to Trump, was well-received, with Xi reportedly endorsing the idea and both leaders reaching a consensus that “everyone agreed” the term should be adopted.

However, Trump’s remarks did not clarify how this proposed change in terminology would be integrated formally into the lexicon of the U.S. government, private technology companies, or any international institutions. The term “artificial intelligence” continues to be the standard phrase used worldwide to refer to technologies designed to execute tasks that generally require human cognitive functions, such as generating text, analyzing vast data sets, and recognizing intricate patterns.

This exchange comes at a time when the United States and China are in the midst of critical negotiations concerning technology, trade, and broader bilateral relations. Both the White House and the Chinese government have underscored the significance of keeping lines of communication open between the two nations, particularly as tensions persist regarding trade policies and technological advancements.

Trump’s introduction of “SUPER INTELLIGENCE” seems more like a personal promotion of a new concept rather than an officially recognized technical replacement for the term currently in use. His comments arise amid a growing global discourse focusing on the capabilities of advanced AI systems and the urgent need for effective regulation and safety measures, as well as considerations of their potential economic impact on various sectors.

Concluding his post, Trump described the dialogue with Xi as “productive” and hinted at the possibility of more significant developments emerging in the future, reflecting a forward-looking approach to U.S.-China relations in the context of technology and innovation.

LOGANVILLE, Ga. — Residents of Gwinnett County will have a unique opportunity to engage with their local first responders during the upcoming Touch-a-Truck event, set for Saturday, September 26. This family-friendly gathering will take place at the popular Chick-fil-A restaurant located at 2880 Loganville Highway, providing a welcoming environment for community members of all ages.

The event is organized to facilitate meaningful interactions between the community and those who serve it. Attendees will have the chance to meet Gwinnett County police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. This face-to-face experience not only promotes community relations but also allows residents to better understand the vital roles these professionals play in ensuring public safety.

Guests will have the opportunity to explore a variety of emergency vehicles, from police cruisers and fire trucks to ambulances. These vehicles will be on display, allowing children and adults alike to get up close and personal with the equipment and tools that first responders utilize in their daily duties. This hands-on experience can stimulate curiosity and foster a sense of appreciation for the sacrifices and dedication of the emergency services.

In addition to vehicle exploration, the event will feature a range of outdoor games and activities designed to engage families and children. These activities will create a fun and relaxed atmosphere, encouraging families to spend quality time together while learning about safety and emergency preparedness. The beloved Chick-fil-A Cow is also expected to make an appearance, adding an extra element of fun for attendees.

Touch-a-Truck events like this one are invaluable for building connections between public safety officials and the community they serve. They provide a platform for residents to ask questions, share concerns, and learn more about safety measures in a less formal setting.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 26, and head to the Chick-fil-A on Loganville Highway to join in this great community event. Gwinnett County Police strongly encourage everyone to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to meet the dedicated professionals committed to maintaining the safety and well-being of the community.

DULUTH, Ga. — This year, the highly anticipated Duluth Fall Festival is set to make a vibrant return to downtown Duluth, promising an exciting weekend filled with live entertainment, delectable food, unique shopping experiences, and engaging family activities. This annual celebration is not only a highlight for the local community but also a magnet for visitors seeking a rich fall experience.

Scheduled for Saturday, September 26, and Sunday, September 27, the festival will transform downtown Duluth into a festive hub of activity, showcasing the best of what the city has to offer. Organizers emphasize that the event is “more than just a festival,” as it aims to cater to guests of all ages with a diverse range of offerings.

Festival hours are set for Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., allowing ample time for attendees to explore everything on offer. The action-packed weekend will feature a vibrant parade that kicks off the festivities, showcasing local talent and bringing the community together in celebration. Additionally, live music will fill the air, providing the perfect soundtrack to the day’s activities, with performances by a variety of artists.

Food lovers will be delighted by the extensive selection of food vendors, each offering a range of mouth-watering dishes that reflect the local flavor and culinary creativity. With more than 180 vendors lined up, shoppers can look forward to discovering artisans and craftspeople showcasing their handmade goods, unique products, and memorable souvenirs.

Families will find a multitude of engaging activities spread throughout the festival grounds, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. From interactive games to creative crafts, children and adults alike will have plenty of opportunities to make joyful memories together while exploring the charming streets of downtown Duluth.

Organizers are calling on both residents and visitors to make plans to attend and immerse themselves in the festival’s lively atmosphere, a wonderful blend of entertainment, food, shopping, and community spirit.

Promotional materials for the event highlight the excitement of live performances, the variety of festival food offerings, and an array of family-oriented activities that will be the centerpiece of the weekend.

The Duluth Fall Festival takes place throughout the scenic downtown area of Duluth, Georgia, creating an inviting space for everyone to enjoy. Those looking for more information, including details on planning their festival experience, can visit the official website at DuluthFallFestival.org.

With festivities commencing on Saturday morning, downtown Duluth is gearing up to be a vibrant destination for all, offering a warm and welcoming setting to enjoy the best of fall celebrations.

FOR SYTH, Ga. — The Georgia Public Safety Training Center will host a two-day symposium focused on behavioral and mental health for public safety professionals on October 27-28.

The symposium, titled “Come in From the Rain: Taking Care of Ourselves,” will take place at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth, running from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day.

This 16-hour program is intended for public safety personnel, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, communications professionals, and others in the field.

According to the Georgia Public Safety Training Center, the symposium will offer participants information and strategies to tackle the challenges associated with public safety careers.

Topics will include mental health first aid, financial wellness, resilience, peer counseling and support, as well as strategies for preventing burnout and addressing depression. The training center emphasizes that the program will provide resources and options for public safety personnel who may be going through difficult circumstances.

Public safety professionals frequently face stressful and potentially traumatic situations as part of their work. This symposium aims to help participants learn strategies for self-care and supporting their colleagues.

The event is free, and continuing education units (CEUs) will be awarded to participants.

Those interested in attending can register through the Georgia Public Safety Training Center’s online registration system.

Event Details
What: “Come in From the Rain: Taking Care of Ourselves”
When: October 27-28, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day
Where: Georgia Public Safety Training Center, Forsyth, Georgia
Cost: Free
Course Length: 16 hours
Registration: Register here

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Police Department is inviting community members to join local police officers for a special event titled “Coffee With a Cop.” This engaging community conversation will take place today, Friday morning, September 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon at Caribou Coffee, located at 3262 Peachtree Road in Atlanta.

This initiative, organized by the department’s Community Outreach and Police Services (C.O.P.S.) Unit, aims to foster stronger relationships between residents and law enforcement. The event provides a friendly and informal setting for the community to interact directly with police officers, ask questions, and express any concerns regarding safety and issues affecting their neighborhoods.

The Atlanta Police Department emphasizes the importance of community engagement and encourages residents to take advantage of this opportunity. “We want to hear from you! Stop by, meet our officers, ask questions, and share your insights about what’s happening in your neighborhood,” said the department in a recent social media announcement.

By hosting the event in a local coffee shop, the police department hopes to create an approachable atmosphere, allowing residents to feel comfortable discussing their thoughts and concerns without the formal setting of a police station.

Event Details:

• What: Coffee With a Cop
• When: Friday, September 25, 2026
• Time: 10 a.m. to noon
• Where: Caribou Coffee, 3262 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, Georgia

The Atlanta Police Department welcomes all residents to come, meet their local officers, engage in meaningful dialogue, and contribute to the safety and well-being of their communities. This event promises to be a valuable opportunity for connection and communication between police officers and the citizens they serve.

DULUTH, Ga. — Drivers traveling through downtown Duluth should prepare for a road closure Thursday night as the city gets ready for the annual Duluth Fall Festival.

According to the Duluth Police Department, Main Street between Hardy Street and W. Lawrenceville Street is expected to close at approximately midnight tonight, Sept. 24, as preparations for the festival get underway.

Police are asking motorists to plan ahead and use alternate routes while the closure is in effect. Drivers traveling through the downtown Duluth area should also watch for barricades, changing traffic patterns and officers assisting with traffic control.

Additional Closures Expected

The Duluth Police Department said additional road closures will take place throughout the weekend as festival activities get underway.

The closures are part of preparations for the Duluth Fall Festival, which brings activities and visitors to the downtown area.

Officials are encouraging motorists to allow additional travel time and remain alert for temporary traffic changes around the festival area.

The department also thanked the public for its patience and cooperation as downtown Duluth prepares for the event.

What Drivers Need to Know

Road: Main Street
Closure area: Between Hardy Street and W. Lawrenceville Street
Expected closure: Around midnight Thursday, Sept. 24
Reason: Duluth Fall Festival preparations
Advice: Use alternate routes and follow posted traffic-control signs and directions from officers.

Residents and visitors heading into downtown Duluth this weekend should expect increased activity and additional traffic restrictions as festival events take place.

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — The Gwinnett Judicial Circuit is accepting applications for a full-time Magistrate Judge position, according to a position announcement published by the Gwinnett County Superior Court.

The application deadline is 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9, 2026.

Chief Magistrate Kristina Hammer Blum announced the opening and outlined the minimum legal qualifications applicants must meet under Georgia law.

According to the announcement, applicants must:

• Be at least 30 years old.
• Have been a citizen of the state of Georgia for at least three years.
• Be a citizen of the United States.
• Have been a member in good standing of the State Bar of Georgia for at least seven years.
• Be a registered voter.
• Have been a resident of Gwinnett County for at least two years.

Applicants must submit a completed application package to the Administrative Office of the Courts by the 4 p.m. deadline on Oct. 9.

The announcement provides two methods for submitting applications. Applicants may email the completed package to GC-AOCHumanResources@gwinnettcounty.com or submit 13 unbound paper copies to:

Philip Boudewyns, Court Administrator
Gwinnett Judicial Circuit
75 Langley Drive
Lawrenceville, GA 30046

Application requirements

The application package must include a cover letter and résumé, a completed Magistrate Court Application and Questionnaire, a signed Authorization for Access Form, a completed Judicial Ethics Quiz and a writing sample.

The Magistrate Court Application and Questionnaire, Authorization Form and Judicial Ethics Quiz are available online at www.gwinnettcourts.com. Applicants also may obtain hard copies from the Administrative Office of the Courts, located on the third floor of the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center.

The announcement states that individuals who previously applied for the position must submit a new application package to be considered.

Questions regarding the vacancy or any applicant can be directed to Philip Boudewyns at 770-822-8564 or GC-AOCHumanResources@gwinnettcounty.com.

The position announcement was shared by the Gwinnett County Superior Court and identifies the opening as a full-time Magistrate Judge position within the Gwinnett Judicial Circuit.

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — Kean Wiggins, a 35-year-old man who Gwinnett County authorities identified as wanted and potentially armed and dangerous, has been apprehended, according to an update from Gwinnett County Police.

The Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office and Gwinnett County Police Department had asked the public for assistance in locating Wiggins on Sept. 24, after authorities said he was last seen that morning in the area of Binnies Way NE and Braselton Highway NE.

Authorities described Wiggins as a Black male, approximately 5 feet, 8 inches tall and weighing about 160 pounds. He was described as having black dreadlocks and a beard, although authorities noted that he may have altered his appearance.

In the original notice, authorities warned that Wiggins was considered armed and dangerous and urged members of the public to use caution and not approach him.

The agencies did not provide additional details about the circumstances of Wiggins’ apprehension in the update shared Thursday.

The Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office and Gwinnett County Police Department thanked members of the public for their assistance and cooperation in helping authorities locate Wiggins.

The update replaces the earlier public request for information regarding his whereabouts.

Gwinnett News Report will update this story if authorities release additional information about the apprehension or any related charges.

DOUGLASVILLE, Ga. — The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 15-year-old Lakyerria Green, who has been reported as a runaway juvenile.

According to information released by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Green was last seen Sept. 22, 2026, at her residence in Douglas County. Authorities released the information publicly on Sept. 23 as investigators continued efforts to determine her whereabouts.

Green is described by authorities as a Black female who is 5 feet, 1 inch tall and weighs approximately 120 pounds.

The sheriff’s office said Green was last seen wearing a black top and black pants.

Authorities said investigators have worked to pursue possible leads, including checking with friends, family members and known hangout locations, before asking the public for assistance.

The sheriff’s office has released a photograph of Green as part of the effort to locate her.

Anyone who has information about Green’s whereabouts or may have seen her is asked to contact Investigator Ethan Leese with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office at 770-920-4916. Information also can be provided by email at eleese@sheriff.douglas.ga.us.

Anyone who believes they have information requiring immediate assistance should call 911.

The sheriff’s office is asking members of the public to share the information and photograph to help investigators locate Green.

Gwinnett News Report will provide updates if additional information is released by authorities.