New Poll Up.

All:

We have a new poll up this month. It ask:

Who do you side with regarding the recent horse manure issue:Horse Owner Cynthia Chandlee or Neighbors Ricky & Kym Crittenden?

Have your say in the upper right corner.

The previous poll question asked:

Other Than Financial Reasons, What Do You Believe Is The Main Cause For Land Owners Selling Out To Development?

RESULTS

Traffic /Speeding-57%
Noise - 43%

Homeowners, city, county battle over horse manure

Harmless Or Health Hazard?


by Jason Wright / Appen Newspapers

April 24, 2009

There is a heap of trouble brewing on Birmingham Road — heaps made of horse manure, to be exact.

The two piles of manure constitute either a harmless compost heap or an odorous health hazard, depending on which side of the fence you are on.

They sit on the 6.25-acre horse farm owned by 15-year Milton resident Cynthia Chandlee, just about 45 feet from her neighbor's kitchen window.

Chandlee says they are compost piles that break down into rich fertilizer, which is then picked up by a local landscaping company.

But her neighbors of eight years, Ricky and Kim Crittenden, say that's a load of, well, manure.

Their position is this is not proper compost, and that in certain times during the summer, the smell and flies get so bad they can barely go outside. They say it washes into their yard and is an environmental hazard.

"We've had company come over, and it's embarrassing," said Ricky Crittenden.

He said their property is surrounded by horse farms, which they love. Of course, none of the other farmers place mounds of waste 10 feet from the property line.

All they want, Crittenden said, is for Chandlee to move the piles someplace farther away where no one can be bothered by them. They said that request goes back to when they bought the land for the home from Chandlee in 2000.

Not surprisingly, Chandlee says the mounds are placed in the best area for them and her.

In April, the Crittenden's called Fulton County's Department of Health and Wellness and alerted environmental specialists to the mounds — part of what Chandlee calls "an ongoing feud" between the two families that has in the past involved Milton's code enforcement division.

Fulton County Environmental Specialist Lindsay Charles cited Chandlee April 8 for both keeping conditions conducive to breeding flies and maintaining "putrescent" material. He gave her two weeks to clean them up.

The problem, said Chandlee, is that horse manure compost piles don't breed flies — the chemical process that breaks down the material creates a reaction too hot their eggs to survive. Also, she said the piles don't smell like fresh manure because of that same process.

So when Charles came back April 22 to check on the clean up, Chandlee hadn't removed the piles. And now she's going to court May 1 for it.

"You have to be kidding me," said Chandlee. "I'm going to court for horse poop."

Fulton wants her to clean up all manure from her five horses twice a week.

"We're trying to go green, and they want this to go to a landfill. No horse manure should ever go to a landfill," Chandlee said.

April Majors is public affairs officer for the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness. She said compost or not, Chandlee was cited because it was determined the pile had the potential for producing a nuisance.

"It can attracts files, mosquitoes or rodents and can cause problems for both homeowners," she said. "It is our responsibility to investigate, and upon investigation there was found to be a violation."

Chandlee is perhaps most livid she could be cited for the potential of flies and smell.

"That's like giving someone a speeding ticket when they're sitting in a parking lot," she said.

For the Crittenden's, the situation has become a nightmare. When Chandlee was cited April 22, she began calling media outlets to tell the story. They say they weren't aware of any "ongoing feud" between them and Chandlee — whom they almost never speak with. They said they decided to only go through "proper authorities" and are distressed they are now involved in a saga playing out in the newspapers.

"Those claims of a feud are untrue," said Kim Crittenden. "I'm a private person, this is so embarrassing for me. I'm just not that kind of person."

They say they are now worried that the horse community in Milton might be turned against them.

"This has nothing to do with horses, nothing to do with farms," said Kim Crittenden. "It has to do with not being a responsible horse owner."Her husband agreed."This is between Fulton County and the property owner," said Ricky Crittenton. "I don't even know why names have to come into it. We just want the homeowner to take appropriate responsibility for managing her manure."

The whole situation has been creating quite a headache for Milton City Manager Chris Lagerbloom. He said the city was first called to Chandlee's farm by the Crittendens in 2007 when Chandlee began composting the material instead of having it hauled off. Chandlee said that was due to rising costs of having it transported.

At first a code enforcement officer asked her to move the piles 100 feet from the property line. Then Milton reversed its position after Chandlee did some research and provided her findings. Chandlee apparently wasn't composting commercially, which would have required the 100-foot rule, so there was no violation of city code.

Lagerbloom said since then the calls have continued — which the Crittendens refute — and no violations have ever been found, "You can only investigate the same thing so many times," he said. But Milton can't tell Fulton what to do."They [Fulton County] have a health code that they believe at this point has been violated," said Lagerbloom. "Our opinion is that we can't stop the Department of Health as much as my personal interest might be to say, 'Come on guys, let's not let this get out of control.'"

Chandlee maintains she has been unfairly targeted. There are at least five horse farms that surround her property on Birmingham Road, none of which have been cited.

But that's because no one has ever complained."It's selective prosecution," she said. "If it applies to me, it applies to every horse farm in Milton."

The Crittendens feel the whole situation is "very unfortunate.""This should be handled as neighbors," said Kim Crittenden. "It's a waste of our officials' time and a waste of taxpayer money."

The outcome could set a big precedent for the small town, which is rife with horse farms and even bases its image on them."We have a lot of horse farms, and with horse farms come horse poop — it's just a fact of life," said Lagerbloom. "There could be the risk that the people who are upset with a neighbor or don't like the smell or the visual appearance of it [could file] a complaint to an agency outside the city of Milton's control that does have the ability for enforcement action."

Manure dispute threatens Milton horse farms

Cynthia Chandlee, with Emily, grabs a handful of material from one of the two compost piles on her property. Neighbors have complained, and the matter goes to court Friday.

Courtesy Doug Nurse; Atlanta - Journal Constitution / April 30, 2009

A conflict between a homeowner and a neighboring horse farm is threatening Milton’s beloved horse community.

Ricky and Kym Crittenden complained to the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness about two waist-high manure piles next to their property line.

Environmental specialist Lindsay Charles on Wednesday cited horse owner Cynthia Chandlee with creating an environment that can smell and breed flies. To comply with county regulations, Chandlee must haul the manure away twice a week instead of once a year as she says she does. Chandlee has three horses and a donkey on her 6-acre farm.

The citation has sent a collective shiver through the horse community in Milton.

“Word is traveling very fast,” said Laura Bentley, who owns an 8-acre horse farm with four to six animals. “For some, hauling it away isn’t an option. It’s very expensive. This makes us all vulnerable. It threatens our ability to keep horses.”

Jim Grogan, who was in the waste-hauling business for 30 years, said it would cost $600 to $1,400 a month. Usually, people haul the waste off every two weeks to once a month. “This is a way to put the horse people out of business,” Grogan said.

Many horse farms spread manure over the pasture because it’s cheaper than fertilizer. “Only the biggest farms haul it away,” Bentley said. “You have to have a lot of horses to justify the expense.”

Bentley said it seems to be another clash between Milton’s image as a pastoral refuge and the reality of animals next door.“It’s like anything. What do you want?” Bentley said. “If no one has horse farms, then say goodbye to the world we live in here. “

Bentley estimated Milton has between 150 and 200 horse farms.

Horse culture permeates the city. A horse emblem adorns city vehicles, city stationery and the city Web site. Road signs warn motorists to watch for equestrians.

Mayor Joe Lockwood said the city doesn’t have any authority in the case, but he said he will try to intervene if the case does threaten the horse community at large.“We’d certainly support the horse community,” he said. “It’s our identity and something we want to preserve.”

The Crittendens bought their land about nine years ago and said Chandlee promised to move the manure piles then. Chandlee said she mixes in pine shavings from the bedding to create a compost, which she gives to a landscaping company.

Kym Crittenden, who grew up with horses, said she’s tired of battling flies and the smell in the summer from the manure piles. She said she believes the piles could be moved, so that it’s not a problem. Chandlee said that it makes sense to have the manure piles near the barn.

Chandlee maintains that the county is citing her for a problem that doesn’t exist. Charles told Chandlee when he cited her Wednesday that the law doesn’t allow an environment that is likely to smell and breed flies. Her case goes to State Court on Friday.

Crittenden said she had hoped the dispute would be handled quietly. “My whole thing has nothing to do with the horses,” she said. “I hate that the horse community is up in arms.”

***More Scam Alert Emails***

Many thanks to 30004USA for providing this information.

oh my gosh - this is too weird because just yesterday we had a suspicious solicitor at our door as well who claimed to be raising money for the Habitat For Humanity and wanted us to buy a coupon book just like the books the Milton High football kids are selling right now. I know this because 5 min. before the suspicious kid came up, a neighbor who we know really well had just stopped by to sell the exact same coupon book and we bought from him. so, fortunately, my husband did not buy from the kid but said he was very pushy and would not take no for an answer. Finally, he got him to leave but to throw us off even more he was wearing a Milton High t-shirt but was not claiming to be raising money for them but for Habitat. Seemed weird, must have been part of that scam...........

A. Ellis - Highland Manor

Milton Neighbor:

Read the email below from a Milton resident and pass around to your local contact list.

If you do not know the "new" neighbor, then don't give them any money. We've heard of other scams such as this with magazine subscription scams in our area. If you know the child/teen asking for your support, it's probably fine, but if you don't then be very cautious about handing over money and signing forms. And, above all, be cautious about letting someone enter your home in light of the most recent crime activity in our area.

As always, first call 9-1-1 if you suspect anything wrong, and the Milton Police will be dispatched.

- 30004USA

Meetings Tonight At City Hall

Milton City Council / 6pm

Agenda=>
http://www.cityofmiltonga.us/cityclerk/council/2009/04-27-2009-Agenda.pdf

Ethics Board / 6:00 pm

Agenda=>
http://www.cityofmiltonga.us/cityclerk/ethics/2009/04-27-2009_Agenda.pdf

CPAC / 6:30pm

Agenda=>
http://www.cityofmiltonga.us/cityclerk/cpac/2009/04-27-2009_Agenda.pdf

City Council meeting, Monday April 27 - 6pm

Courtesy bhalliance.org

Use Permits
April 27, 2009

The BHA Board of Directors would like to make you aware of a request by two applicants for Special Use Permits for Landscaping Businesses, these zoning cases could set negative legal precedent for the City of Milton. The Planning Commission will be discussing Zoning Ordinance for Landscaping Businesses and Agriculture Uses, a decision on the current two cases would be premature.

City Council meeting, Monday, April 27 - 6pm at City Hall(Agenda item #08-913)U09-01 / VC09-01, 13120 Arnold Mill Road, by Frank Schaffer, The Landscape Group,Inc. - To obtain a use permit for a landscaping business on 1.74 acres at a density of 3,908.04 square feet per acre (Article 19.4.27). Applicant is also requesting 3-part concurrent variances:
To delete the 50' buffer and 10' improvement setback along the west property line from the right-of-way for a distance of 140' (12H.3.1 Section C.1).
To delete the 50' buffer and 10' improvement setback along the east property line from the right-of-way for a distance of 140' (12H.3.1 Section C.1).
To allow a sign located less than 10' from the right-of-way (Article 33 Section 21.C).Issues and

Concerns:

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATION for the February 24, 2009 Planning Commission meeting was for DENIAL.

• "Staff finds that the use as proposed on the site plan is too intensive for the site and recommends Denial of Parts One and Two. The proposed use violates the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance because of inadequate buffers on the eastern and western property lines. It is Staff's opinion that there is too much development on the front half of the property based on the required buffers and is inconsistent with nearby uses."

Revised site plan was submitted on March 2, 2009 to the Planning Commission. The revised plan does not fully comply with the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. No substantial changes to the site plan to recommend approval of concurrent variance request. Staff stated, "that even if the variance were granted for the 50-foot undisturbed buffer along the east property line, access to the rear would encroach into the 25-foot State stream buffer. A variance would be needed from the State Department of Environmental Protection prior to consideration by the City of Milton Planning Commission and City Council."

The petitioner is asking for variances to the required buffers - all buffer requirements should be met or this use permit should not be approved. Allowing relief for part of the buffer requirements sets a negative precedent for all of Milton.

Requested use is too intense for the size of the property, 1.74 acres at a density of 3,908.04 square feet per acre on a narrow lot with steep slopes and a stream. The applicant is seeking to grow their business, "Want to develop their business more and then expand later."
Staff stated they are still recommending denial of Part Three of VC09-01 due to lack of a significant hardship due to existing foliage or structures.

Business has been operating for 2 years illegally, applicant purchased property in 2007.
This is a traditional commercial landscaping business that does not meet minimum buffer requirements. If allowed on this parcel of land, it will set a negative legal precedent for virtually all other AG-1 parcels that similarly cannot meet the required standards for this use permit. U09-02/VC09-02 - 15150 Birmingham Hwy, Application by Robb Nestor to obtain a use permit for a landscaping business on 3.926 acres at a density of 387.92 square feet per acre (Article 19.4.27). Applicant is also requesting concurrent variance to allow access from a local street (Article 19.4.27.B.1).

The Use Permit does not allow for access to the business from a local street.Please share this information with your neighbors, families and friends.

***Scam Alert***

Many thanks to Miltonian Tara Chambers for sharing this information with our readers.

Dear Neighbors,

I wanted to make you all aware of an incident we had at our home yesterday (Saturday 5/25/09). It was about 5:30pm, I was in the basement with the kids and my husband was upstairs in the kitchen. I heard the doorbell ring, but when my husband didn’t call for me I figured he handled whatever it was. About 10 minutes later I went upstairs and saw my husband sitting at the kitchen table with a young man (white male in polo shirt and jeans, about 19 – 22 years old). My husband was writing him a check. I walked over and asked what was going on. My husband said “this is Steve Burton, they just moved into the neighborhood recently and he is a student at UGA raising money for the school band”. I was very confused because I am pretty up on who lives in our neighborhood (with only 74 homes it’s not that difficult) and as far as I knew there was no “Burton” in the neighborhood. I looked at him and asked where exactly he lived in the neighborhood. He said 410 The Hermitage Drive – 2nd home on the left. I went and pulled out the neighborhood directory and I know who lives in that house and it has not changed ownership in the past 5 years. I then continued through the directory and told him there was no Burton in the neighborhood and that he does not live at 410 The Hermitage Drive. He was very confident and explained that they had only moved here 6 months ago and since he lives away at school he may have the address wrong. He said since they are so new to the neighborhood, they aren’t in the directory yet. I confronted him further by saying the directory is brand new and just came out last week. He said it must be a mistake and he will have his mother look into it. I asked him for his home phone number because I wanted to call his mother and he said he didn’t remember the number and his mother’s cell phone was off right now so that wouldn’t help. He also went on to say that his mother was good friends with Diane Godby (my neighbor) and that she could vouch for him. I called Diane but unfortunately there was no answer at her house. This went on and on. He sat at our kitchen table and told lye after lye and was as confident as he could be. He said he would get his mom and be back in about an hour and get the check from us at that time. He had an answer for everything I confronted him about. I told him point blank “your story isn’t adding up” and he wasn’t flustered one bit. We asked him to leave our house and he had the nerve to ask what other homes he should visit. We said “NONE – everyone here is very suspicious of solicitors and until you can get your mom to confirm that you live here, we wouldn’t recommend he go to any other homes.” He said “ok, I understand and can I have a bottle of water.”

After he left I got in touch with my neighbor (the one his mother is supposed to be great friends with) and she said she has no idea who he is. She said he came to her house and said he was with Milton H.S. He told her a whole different story and got a $20.00 check from her. He was a VERY good scammer. We think he used UGA with us because my husband is an alum who answered the front door with a UGA visor on his head. Diane probably had something “Milton H.S.” around her house that he picked up on.

We called 911 and the Milton Police came out. This part shocks me the most. They stopped the boy and ran his name. They said there was nothing on him in the system and there was nothing they could do except tell him to leave the neighborhood. I was shocked. I said he was obviously lying and scamming people out of money and the police officer said the problem is it is similar to a “used car salesman”. They can say anything they want and try to get you to give them money. It’s a “buyer beware” situation. I still don’t completely understand how this isn’t illegal and why this boy wasn’t arrested, but bottom line is PLEASE BE CAREFUL who you let into your house and give money to. This is a perfect example of why I am so “over the top” about soliciting in Milton. People here are so trusting and generous and we are easy to take advantage of. The officer also said that they had gotten a lot of phone calls over the past few days about this “group”. He then explained to me that the “group” usually busses kids in from South Fulton. They give them the books and magazine subscription forms and anything else they need to make it look legit. He said this wasn’t just this one boy working on his own. It’s a whole group running a larger scam.

Please be careful and don’t buy anything from solicitors. There is no way to tell who is legit and who isn’t in my opinion.

Tara

Tara Chambers

Day Of Service A Huge Success!

All:

Great to see everyone at Birmingham Park this past Saturday. I was honored to work with all of you! Below you will see an quick update from Jon McPhail. Picture credit above goes to Patti Silva of Miltonville.com. Thanks to both of you!

- Tim Enloe; Magnolia Media, LLC

A brief recap of the numbers involved in the Great American Cleanup/Day of Service effort to clean up Birmingham Park in Milton on Saturday, Aprl 25: (all numbers approximate):

Volunteers-350
Dumps removed-5
Barbed wire fence removed-1.5 linear miles (times four strands).
Roadway right-of-way cleared-3/4 mile.
Acres of pasture bush-hogged and cleared of excess tree growth-6.
House on site cleaned inside and out, roof and back porch repaired.

Jon McPhail

BIG Numbers Expected At Birmingham Park Clean Up

All:

It appears as though there are going to be quite a few folks at Birmingham Park this Saturday for the "Day Of Service" event. The following are some of the food vendors who are offering up free food in support of the day. Thank you to all of you!

The food should arrive shortly before noon!!

Here’s the “skinny”:

Firehouse Subs – 40 sandwiches
Dominoes – 10 pizzas
Subway at Bethany Village – 45 sands, 36 cookies
El Azteca – 60 burritos
Starbucks – iced tea for 300
Birmingham Publix – water
I Love NY Pizza – 10 pizzas, Stromboli, garlic knots
Olde Blind Dog – 50 club sandwiches
Milton’s – 80 chicken salad sands + house made chips
Crabapple Kroeger – 10 cases water
Subway at Crabapple – 30 sands
La Parilla Crabapple – beef/beans/rice for 20
A&W/KFC – 25 two piece chicken dinners
McDonalds – 100 chicken wraps
Chipotle – 100 ½ burritos, 100 chips and salsa
The Red Hen – 25 cobb/chef salads
Roasters – 80 cornbreads, 80 rolls, butters
Macaroni Grill – rosemary bread for 100
Brooklyn Joes – 10 pizzas, pasta
Chick Fil A – 100 sands
Cici’s – 12 pizzas
Costco – 10 cases of water
Zaxby’s – ice, iced tea
Wal Mart at 9 and Francis - $30 gift card
WalMart at WindwardSuper Target - $20 gift card
Philly’s Pretzel Factory donated 500 pretzels

News from Karen Thurman, Milton City Council Member

Dear Neighbors,

You cannot watch the news on television or open a newspaper without hearing that another government is struggling financially. The downturn in the economy has had a negative impact on the financial condition of all governments - Federal, States, Counties and Cities. Lately there have been several articles written about Milton's financial picture. These articles, with their "eye-catching" headlines have tended to paint a very negative picture concerning the City of Milton's financial stability.

Lately I have had several people ask me "How is the city of Milton financially?" and "Are we going to make it?". The short answer is yes - Milton will make it financially. A longer answer is that Milton, like every other city you hear about, is experiencing a decrease in revenue collections. Over seventy-five percent (75%) of our annual reoccurring revenue is derived from three sources which can be impacted by a downtown in the economy: Real property tax, business and occupation tax and sales tax. Real property tax collections are slower this fiscal year and the properties themselves are no longer increasing in value at the rate they have in prior years. Business and occupation tax collections through March 2009 are down from prior years. Statewide sales tax collections are also down for this fiscal year. When the City of Milton was formed, budgets and financial models were structured to incorporate worst case scenarios. The five year projection had Milton making up for lost time given the lack of resources that were provided to our area when those services were provided by Fulton County. The Milton City Council knew that we would have to play catch up no mater what the economic conditions were. Being a new city, we have always had a very lean budget. After incorporation, are efforts have been concentrated on providing the most essential services - police, fire, roads - for our citizens at a higher standard than they were previously receiving from Fulton County. We have not had the luxury of implementing non-essential programs that other well established cities provide. Many of these programs, although very worthwhile and beneficial to residents, are often difficult to scale back during lean years. Our staff is diligently monitoring and revising the anticipated revenue collections for this fiscal year. We, as a City Council, are working with our City Staff to provide services to you, our residents and business owners, at the highest standard and in the most efficient manner possible.

Even with the current financial stresses of our city, Milton residents show us what can be done with a little effort. This weekend, a group of volunteers, with limited financial resources from the city, will start the process of cleaning up Birmingham Park so that our residents can begin to enjoy this beautiful and scenic resource. This process will certainly take some time and will not occur overnight, I believe that efforts like these show us what Milton is and what the citizen's of Milton can accomplish.

If you and your family would like to volunteer, please visit the City of Milton website at www.cityofmiltonga.us or call the City at (678) 242-2500 for additional information.
If you have ideas of concerns about Milton and our efforts to ensure our financial viability, please write me at thurman4milton@yahoo.com. Thank you for allowing me to serve you and the needs of our community. It is an honor and a privilege to do so.

Sincerely,

Karen C. Thurman

To the concerned residents of Milton:

Each year the Milton Police Department investigates numerous crimes of all sorts. This serves as an unfortunate reminder that crime knows no boundaries. I want to assure all residents that the Milton Police Department is well equipped to investigate and handle all varieties of offensives. Once a crime is committed in the City, our trained men and women on the force know and take all the proper investigative steps to make sure justice is served.

Some fear that with the economy in recession there will be an increase in crime and recent headlines and reports seem to validate that perception. Regardless, all we can do is be aware of our surroundings and take the necessary precautions to make sure we are doing everything in our power to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

I want all Milton citizens to know our City remains safer than many cities in the immediate area. Never the less, in the best interests of our family and neighbors we all need to be proactive, to be aware of crimes occurring in our community and to do something about it. Our police department is available to you if you ever20have questions or concerns. One of the most important things you can do is stay involved. A community with active citizens is a community that is interested in protecting itself.

Always report a crime or suspicious activity by calling the Milton Police Dispatch at 678.297.6300, Option 1. In an emergency, always dial 9-1-1. Often people think their phone call may be silly or bothersome to our otherwise busy police officers. That is not the case.

The Milton Police Department continues to monitor crime trends within the City and at a more regional level. As relevant information regarding these trends becomes available I will happily share it.

I look forward to your continued support of the City and your partnership with our police department. In the coming weeks, please check out our new Police Department section on our City Web site, www.CityofMiltonGa.Us for safety tips and all other police-related information.

As always, please contact me directly if I can be of service.

Sincerely,

Mayor Joe Lockwood

As I See It News From Tina D'Aversa

Dear Milton Neighbor,

Happy Earth Day! I hope this note finds you safe and enjoying this beautiful day.

Safety

Remember that if you see unsafe activities in Milton, call 911 or contact the city with non-emergencies at 678-242-2500. The Milton Public Safety Department is here to keep citizens safe. They cannot prevent every crime but they are responsive and will make sure you are protected. The City of Milton and Mayor Lockwood posted a letter about our safe city. You can read the letter by clicking on this link.

I hope to see you all out this Saturday for the Great Milton Clean Up at Birmingham Park.

The clean up takes place this Saturday, April 25, from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. The project, spearheaded by Milton Grows Green and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is part of two national clean-up programs, "The Great American Cleanup" and "Day of Service." You are encouraged to join in this major park clean up by contacting cleanupmilton2009@cityofmiltonga.us.

The Economy

A recent newspaper article called attention to a possible revenue short for the city of Milton. While there will likely be a short fall in part because of lower tax collections, there is no reason for alarm. City Manager Lagerbloom along with the Mayor and Council are working closely to ensure that we are conservative with your tax dollars. The current budget is available on the city web site.
The city of Milton is like many cities feeling the impact of a down national economy. However, Milton is in good financial condition. I can tell you that I have not approved areas of spending that reach outside our required balanced budget. And, I expect our city to continue to provide a high level of service as the council and staff review ways to reduce costs and increase revenue.

Many citizens and business have felt the impact of the economy and are paying their taxes later than in the past. The finance staff will continue to work with citizens to ensure collections.

As we continue to manage the most unique city in Georgia, lets all be thankful for the blessings we have around us. Take time to stop and look around at our beautiful city. We must reach out to our neighbors who need support and lend a hand. And we must take some time to take care of ourselves.

Milton Milers

You are invited to join the Milton Milers each Sunday for a walk around Milton for fun and health. We will meet at 3:00 at the Bethany Road Starbucks to walk 3 to 5 miles.

And remember, If you have any questions about your city, do not hesitate to contact me or meet me during the Milton Milers walk.

Milton Milers Health Tip - If you are facing tough financial times or other challenges in your life, you are not alone. Keep your faith and continue to take care of yourself by exercising at least 3-4 times per week.

Health experts agree that exercise is a wonderful stress reducer. A healthy, strong body supports a healthy, strong mind.

Events in Milton

Several important meetings of the City Council are listed below. The next City Council Meeting is Monday, April 27 6:00 at Milton City Hall (13000 Deerfield Parkway).

Be sure to visit tinadaversa.com for additional information and to help support our re-election campaign.

Wishing you good health and prosperity!

Tina D'Aversa
678-242-2498 Direct
tdaversa@thepublishinggroupinc.com

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." ~ Margaret Mead

Events Click on the event title for additional information

Clean-up Milton Day! The Great American Clean-up Day of Service is scheduled for Saturday, April 25th. This project, spearheaded by Milton Grows Green and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, is part of two national clean-up programs, "The Great American Cleanup" and "Day of Service." It will be a terrific day of community service and citizen camaraderie as we all come together to spruce up the 202 acres of the Birmingham Parkland. Many local churches, boy scouts, girl scouts, civic organizations and more are planning to join in for this community wide volunteer park clean up event.

Gravel Roads

For those of you living on a gravel road in Milton or interested in efforts to preserve the unique gravel roads please join us for a Gravel road review meeting, Thursday, April 30th 6:00 - 8:00 pm at City Hall.

Milton Roundup Logo Contest

Milton High School students are being asked to design the logo for the annual Milton Round-up T-shirts. The student with the winning design will receive a $100 cash prize. The entry deadline is 5/1. Visit City of Milton to enter the contest and for additional details (link to www.cityofmiltonga.us).

Bulky Trash Day - On April 18 from 8a.m. - 2 pm. Milton residents can take large items for recycling that otherwise cannot be donated. The location for drop-off of such items is just around the corner from the Roswell Recycling Center at 1790 Hembree Rd. This is an amnesty day so there is no charge for Milton, Alpharetta and Roswell residents.

Highway 9 Design Committee Meeting
If you are Interested in ensuring development guidelines for the area along Highway 9 are appropriate, please attend a future meeting of the committee. May 7, 4:00 pm, Milton City Hall.

Parks and Recreation Committee Meeting

April 30, 6:00 pm City Hall
Milton Milers Walking Club
April 26, 3:00 pm. Milton walkers meet at Starbucks at Bethany Road and Highway 9 each Sunday and walk for health wellness and camaraderie.
City Council Meeting April 27, 2009
City Council Meetings are held at City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Milton, Georgia 30004.

Ethics Board Meeting April 27, 2009, 6:00 at Milton City Hall
Meeting Calendar of the City Boards and Commissions

Planning Commission April 28, 2009. 7:00 at Milton City Hall


Join us each Sunday at 3:00 at the Starbucks on Bethany Road in Milton.
Milton Milers Walking Club Kick-Off
Join city council member, Tina D'Aversa, and many other members of the Milton team for the Milton Miler Walk around Milton.

Birmingham Park Cleanup

Be a Part of Something Really Big!

The Birmingham Hopewell Alliance is proud to join the efforts of the city-wide volunteer project to clean up Birmingham Park, 750 Hickory Flat Road, this Saturday, April 25 from 9 am to 4pm. This project, spearheaded by Milton Grows Green and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is part of two national clean-up programs, "The Great American Cleanup" and "Day of Service."Your help is need in this major park clean up, register to volunteer by contacting cleanupmilton2009@cityofmiltonga.us. Among the projects scheduled are the clean up and repair of a house in the park, clearing fences from prior farming use, clearing fallen trees and limbs for chipping, mowing, clearing pastures, repairing Old Bullpen Road, and the clearing of a dump beside that road.Projects are available for all skill and fitness levels. Youth may participate with adult supervision at non-dangerous sites. Sign up to help for a few hours or the whole day, every volunteer makes a difference.

Every voice, every dollar and every volunteer makes all the difference!Helping to protect and plan for the future of this unique area has required the BHA's involvement in a variety of activities including transportation issues, proposed zoning amendments, and on-going monitoring of zonings already approved but not implemented, and more. Constant Attention Requires Commitment and Funding - Everyone Makes a Difference We ask for your membership and financial support. We are a fully volunteer organization and it is only through the generous donations and volunteer-time from our community that we have been successful. It takes time and money, but we all benefit directly from the results.Join or renew your membrship with BHA right now! Click here for online membership.We organize people, not just around issues, but around their values. The issues fade, and people lose interest in them. But what they really care about remains: Family, dignity, justice, and hope. We need power to protect what we value.

- Ernie Cortes, Community Organizer

More Updates Regarding Break In.

Many thanks to Council Person Zahner Bailey, Public Safety Director Chris Lagerbloom, and various citizens for sharing the following information.

Dear neighbors, citizens and friends –

I am aware of this horrible crime in Milton and was in touch with our City Manager almost immediately on Saturday after it happened. Not only am I concerned as a Council member, I am concerned as a neighbor and friend. Below is an email from our City Manager, Chris Lagerbloom (also previously the Director of Public Safety) addressing the situation.

I wanted to send this to you so that you would know this is a top priority. Please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Lagerbloom at Chris.Lagerbloom@cityofmiltonga.us or myself at Julie.ZahnerBailey@cityofmiltonga.us if you have any questions that we can address.

Please know, I will send out a factual release once the City of Milton has more factual information to share.

Thank you,

Julie Zahner Bailey
City of Milton Council member
404-310-6344 (cell)

The email from Mr. Lagerbloom follows:

I was notified by Councilmember Zahner Bailey of an email string that started based on a horrific crime that occurred in Milton early Saturday morning. When crimes like this occur, it is very natural to initially be shocked that this could even occur in our City – and it is very appropriate to be concerned; even frightened. This is one of those unfortunate reminders crime knows no boundaries. The Milton Police Department takes these types of incidents very seriously and is very equipped to conduct the appropriate investigation and with some skill will be able to bring these men to justice.

Additionally, please take this tragic opportunity to do something positive in your home for you and your family. Our community is stronger than any of these criminals. This is the time to focus on being a good neighbor, and a proactive homeowner in Milton. Please continue to be aware of your surroundings and report20anything suspicious. Many times in my career I tried to explain suspicious. I don’t think I ever got it right, but always said, “If it makes you say hmmm” the police need to know about it. The Milton Police Department will be putting together a more detailed and factual response to the emails that have started. The emails I have seen will likely raise a level of fear, that’s what these bad guys want. As a community, let’s replace that fear with determination to find these two guys that committed a horrible crime in Milton. More soon and as information becomes available,

Chris Lagerbloom, City Manager

Milton man finds burglars at home in morning

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
— Doug Nurse

A Milton man went to get his newspaper Saturday morning and surprised two burglars in his office over his garage.

When he went outside just before 6 a.m., the man noticed a couple of duffle bags on the curb, police said. He carried them and the newspaper into the garage and heard noises upstairs. As he investigated, two men, one with a pistol, ordered him to lie on the floor.

They fled with a laptop, a shotgun and several hundred dollars in cash. Police believe accomplices may have then driven up in a car for their escape. Anyone with information on the incident should call Milton Detective Kevin Barry at 770-360-8858.

***Crime Alert!***

Many thanks to 30004USA for sharing this informatin with us.

Dear Milton Neighbors:

The email below began circulating in our area yesterday, April 19th, and was confirmed as truthful by several residents that personally know the two families in the Tullamore subdivision.
Also of great concern is the (unconfirmed by us yet) report of an robbery in the Oaks at White Columns subdivision where the police responded to a security alarm break in and found a man armed with a gun in the home when searched.

Additionally, a home in the Birmingham community appears to have been "cased" by a African American woman, well-dressed, with a clipboard who states that she is from the Fulton County Pool Inspection office and must walk around the home to look at backyards. She was seen walking around the perimeter of a home (without a pool) at least three times and when the homeowner called Fulton County they found out that there is no such department.

The exact date and time of these last two incidents are unknown but have been recent.
Let's keep the emails going strong around our area and always notify your friends and neighbors in Milton if you are aware of questionable activity. Of course, after calling 9-1-1 and reporting it to the Police first.

Please Be Safe,
30004USA

Hi,If you live in the area please read this.We live in Tullamore off of Birmingham Hwy in Milton. This morning around 5 am, our car, parked in the driveway, had itemsstolen from it. Immediately following this , our neighbor was robbed at gun point. He was in his office, over the garage,while his wife and children were asleep in the house.The robbers were described as two young (18-20) year old, well spoken, black men.We were shocked to think that this could happen in our area, and told by Milton Police that this was the first armed robbery to occur in Milton.Please alert your neighbors and pass this along. The Milton Police are working tocatch these guys, but until they do they are still out there, and a potential danger to the community.

Thank you,Cheryl

Tea Party Talk and Pictures

Dear Accessmilton.com:

Go to teapartypatriots.org to watch for updates for the Tea Party Movement and AtlantaTeaParty.net for specific information related to Atlanta's Tea Party efforts.

A tea party chapter is being set up in Milton. For more information, email us at
teapartymilton@gmail.com for inquiries to updates, info, and meetings.

Many thanks to Melissa L for sharing this information with us.

Milton News From Julie Zahner Bailey

Dear Milton Neighbors, Friends and Citizens,I hope everyone had a safe Spring Break and a blessed Easter and Passover. This release provides information regarding four items citizens have contacted me about over the last week:

Bulky Trash Amnesty Day -

this Saturday, April 18 from 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. The City of Milton and Milton Grows Green, in concert with the City of Alpharetta and the City of Roswell are teaming up to provide a free opportunity for Milton residents to dispose of "bulky items". Scroll down for details.

Naming of the new elementary school on Birmingham Highway -

I have received many calls and emails inquiring about the naming of the new elementary school. An article ran in the Milton Herald last week noting three names that have put forth for consideration by the Board of Education: Birmingham Bend, Birmingham Falls and Birmingham Trail. Many citizens have inquired as to the process, how they can weigh in and who they can contact. I am providing this information to address those questions. The BOE will consider the three names currently before them at their Thursday, April 23 meeting. Citizens can send comments to members of the BOE as well as the Area Superintendent and the Superintendent of schools. The final decision is that of the Board of Education. Scroll down for more details including a link to the article from the Milton Herald and contact information.

Birmingham Park Clean-Up and Day of Service -

Saturday, April 25 from 9:00 - 4:00. Please do join us! Details are noted below.
Upcoming Special Use Permit Requests - Two Special Use Permit requests come before the Milton Council on Monday, April 27. They are located on Arnold Mill Road and the other at the corner of Birmingham Highway and Taylor Road. Scroll down for details.Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. I consider it a serious responsibility and welcome any and all questions and comments.

All my best -
Julie Zahner Bailey

Milton City Council 770-664-5529 (home)404-310-6344 (cell)Julie4Milton@mindspring.comJulie4Milton.com

_____________________________________________

Bulky Trash Amnesty Day -

Saturday, April 18 - 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.The Public Works Departments of Milton, Alpharetta and Roswell, along with Milton Grows Green and Keep Roswell Beautiful, join together Saturday, April 18, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., to offer residents a chance to clean out their garages, basements, attics and dispose of large, unwanted items at no charge.Residents can bring their items to the City of Roswell Public Works Division at 1810 Hembree Road. Proof of residency, such as utility bills, will be required.Due to the popularity of this event, you may encounter delays.

Materials will only be accepted at the site on April 18 and only during the hours of 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please note that the line will be cut off at 2 p.m.Acceptable Items
Tires-must be off the rim, automobile tires only; limit 4 per car.

Sofas
Tables
Refrigerators
Chairs
Washers
Dryers
Televisions
Deactivated cell phones
Computer equipment Unacceptable items
Paint
Household hazardous waste
Any fluids including motor oil and anti-freeze
Household batteries
Construction and demolition materials

Yard waste

For more information:Alpharetta and Milton residents should contact Terry Porter at 678.297.6200 or tporter@alpharetta.ga.us Roswell residents should contact Janet Liberman at 770.641.3715 or jliberman@ci.roswell.ga.us.

Naming of the New Elementary SchoolLocated on Birmingham Highway

The Board of Education put together a naming committee made up of administrators, citizens, teachers and parents to help come up with ideas for a name for the new elementary school located on Birmingham Highway in Milton. The committee met twice discussing a wide range of name options. At the second meeting, a vote was taken and the names with the most votes were brought forward to the Board of Education who will make the final selection.

The three names currently before the Board of Education are: Birmingham Bend, Birmingham Falls and Birmingham Trail.A recent article in the Milton Herald from the April 8th edition has sparked a lot of questions from citizens including how can citizens provide input to those making the decision regarding the final name for the new elementary school. Comments can be sent to the members of the Board of Education as well as the Area Superintendent and the Superintendent of Fulton County. Use this link for contact information.Additionally, the Thursday, April 23 BOE meeting is open to the public. Use this link for details regarding the meeting location and times.Please note, while I am a member of the naming committee, these names do not necessarily represent my personal choices, but instead were names that received the most votes from the full committee. Link to the April 8 Milton Herald Article.

City-wide Volunteer Effort Scheduled to Clean Up Birmingham Park

A city-wide volunteer effort to clean up Birmingham Park will begin on April 25. This project, spearheaded by Milton Grows Green and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is part of two national clean-up programs, "The Great American Cleanup" and "Day of Service." Residents are encouraged to join in this major park cleanup by contacting cleanupmilton2009@cityofmiltonga.us. Among the projects scheduled are the clean-up and repair of a house in the park, clearing fences from prior farming use, clearing fallen trees and limbs for chipping, mowing and clearing pastures, repairing Old Bullpen Road, and the clearing of a dump beside that road. Projects are available for all skill and fitness levels. Youth may participate with adult supervision at non-dangerous sites.

Individuals are encouraged to sign up to work a half or whole day on projects appropriate for their fitness and capabilities under the close supervision of team leaders at each project location. These programs are sponsored by a number of local and national groups including the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints, the Boy Scouts of America, Keep America Beautiful and its Georgia affiliate, the City of Milton and Milton Grows Green. Other civic, religious and environmental groups in the Milton area have agreed to participate in the April 25 cleanup including the Milton Business Alliance, the Birmingham Hopewell Alliance and student groups from Hopewell Middle, Northwestern Middle, St. Francis High, Alpharetta High and Milton High Schools. Additionally, boy scout troops and environmental volunteers from past clean-up projects, including Rivers Alive and "Bring One For the Chipper" Christmas Tree recycling program, will participate.

Area churches of various denominations, including Bethany Baptist Church, Community of Christ and Stonecreek Church will also be providing volunteers at the 202 acre park. "Besides accomplishing great work, this project offers a wonderful opportunity to create and strengthen relationships, and create a framework for a stronger community," said Jim Brown, project coordinator for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Marc Arrington, Milton Grows Green's project supervisor for the Great American Clean-up, noted that "while we are involved in several projects that are part of the Great American Clean-up, we are gratified to be working with the Day of Service volunteers and others on cleaning up Birmingham Park, which should make it more accessible to Milton's citizens."

MBA Meeting Thursday Night At Milton's

Reminder of the upcoming MBA meeting April 16th, 6:00pm at Miltons Cuisine and Cocktails in Crabapple.

Lt. Travis Parker will be speaking about Identity Theft. There will be a $5 charge for appetizers.

Please feel free to pass this message along to anyone you think may be interested in joining the MBA.

http://www.accessmilton.com/MBA.php

Talk of re-forming Milton County divides Fulton leaders

By D.L. BENNETT
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Fulton County leaders clashed Tuesday on whether the county should be split up to create Milton County. Those for and against the controversial proposal refused to give any ground.
Many north Fulton residents and officials want the county to be torn apart, with Milton County being created from the suburbs north of Atlanta and Fulton taking everything from Atlanta south. Meanwhile, county and south Fulton officials argued there’s no reason to shred Fulton.

“There’s a problem I leave here frustrated with. I’m sad,” said John Sherman, president of the Fulton County Taxpayers Foundation, which called Tuesday’s forum at 103 West in Buckhead.
Sherman wants Georgia’s largest and most populous county to remain whole. He organized the session Tuesday to praise Fulton as well-run and seek common ground with its critics. Sherman praised the county’s libraries, sheriff’s office and tax assessing operation as model programs.
“To criticize with a broad brush the professionalism of these departments is unfair,” Sherman said.

But that didn’t sway Mayors Jere Wood of Roswell, Eva Galambos of Sandy Springs or Mike Bodker of Johns Creek who said they’d prefer the re-creation of Milton.

Wood compared the proposed split to a divorce that’s come after years of hard arguing.
“It may be costly,” Wood said, but it’s the only choice we see.”

Before he was elected mayor, Bodker served on a citizens panel that was convened to look at ways to improve Fulton government. None of its recommendations ever went anywhere.
“I have no trust in Fulton County,” Bodker said.

Fulton Commission Chairman John Eaves defended the county. He argued the critics make a lot of noise but rarely provide specifics. Eaves said the county-owned property in the new Milton County would cost the new government $1 billion.

“The creation of Milton County is a lose-lose proposition,” Eaves said. “All entities involved will get the short end of the stick.”

Rep. Roger Bruce (D-Atlanta) agreed. He chairs the county’s legislative delegation.
“The notion that the county is not functioning properly is not true,” Bruce said.

Providence Park clean up extended

by Jason Wright / Appen Newspapers

April 13, 2009 It looks like its going to be a long time before Milton residents can use Providence Park.

Fulton County has decided two more wells and more groundwater testing for up to a year are necessary to continue the park's clean up. Environmental remediation is now expected to conclude in August 2010.

"Late last year some of the testing determined we weren't getting the result we wanted, so we had to go back in and modify the system," said Angela Parker, Fulton County's director of Public Works.

Basically, the groundwater cleanup system in place was lagging, so the testing period had to be extended to make up for the gaffe and the down time needed for maintenance.

"It's a matter of continuing to test the results and getting the optimum results for the system," she said.

Providence Park has been closed since January 2004, when buried debris, sixteen 55-gallon drums and more than 200 various sized receptacles containing Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulated materials were discovered in a lake and wetlands abutting 40-acre recreation area.

Those materials included barium, chromium, vinyl chloride and other compounds, which were found in much higher levels than the state allows in groundwater. Some concentrations were 10 times what is allowed by the state, according to then Fulton County Deputy County Manager Terry Todd.

The spill was originally discovered in 2003.

In early 2008, Milton's then City Attorney Mark Scott and City Council floated the idea of purchasing portions of the park and possibly cordoning off the affected areas. The idea was to apply for the state Environmental Protection Division's (EPD) Hazardous Site Reuse and Redevelopment Act, also known as the "Brownfields Act," which would have released the city from liability and promoted reuse of the closed site.

But Councilwoman Tina D'Aversa, who urged bringing Providence Park into Milton for more park space at the time, said everyone at City Hall has since agreed not to lease or purchase any part of it until the full clean up is complete."If the EPD has extended the remediation, we trust in them," said D'Aversa. "If they are finding stuff, then we absolutely do not want, in any way, shape or form, to open up something or allow our citizens anywhere close to something that might have any type of negative connotations for them."

D'Aversa said in the meantime council has been concentrating its efforts on making improvements to Bell Memorial Park and the currently undeveloped Birmingham Park.

"When Providence Park is ready, we'll be ready," she said.

According to Fulton County, which still owns Providence Park because of the remediation, the materials were reportedly dumped and buried prior to 1970, when the property was utilized as a county road aggregate quarry and maintenance facility.

To remove Providence Park from the EPD'S listing as on the Georgia Hazardous Site Inventory, contaminated soil was first removed. The county said approximately 8,331.5 tons of impacted soil was taken, and the site was cleared soil-wise in June 2006.

Removal of groundwater began in September 2007. Groundwater recovery wells and a treatment system were added January 2008. Originally, the groundwater was to be tested quarterly for a year, but the new change adds another nine to 12 months, plus the two additional wells.

The cleanup plan includes a two-year groundwater monitoring program implemented under the watch of EPD. Once completed, all equipment will be moved off site and Fulton County will restore the park by clearing fallen trees and debris, repairing the fencing, addressing the security, improving the post-excavation soil grade and removing the temporary erosion control measures.

Milton Milers will meet at Starbucks at Bethany Bend and Highway 9 each Sunday at 3pm and will walk for health wellness and camaraderie.For more information, please contact Tina D'Aversa at 678 457 0677 or Tim & Ginger Enloe at 770 653 0552.

Milton Grows Green

This month's meeting, being held this Thursday at 6:00 p.m., will be at City Hall (Executive Conference Room) rather than at the Fire Station. Maya Davis, a visitor from the Atlanta Regional Commission, who will speak to us and may be able to answer some brief questions, time permitting.

The Lost Pups Have Been Found!

All:

Many thanks to all those who contributed in bringing the two pups below back to their home. I know that their owners are very happy this day.

All the best -

Tim Enloe
770 653 0552

Lost Dogs!

All:

The pups above are lost. The last time they were seen was at the intersections of Mayfield and Bethany Roads in Milton on Monday during the wind storm. Please keep your eye out for the these two. The owners are very worried!

If you find them, please contact Paul English At 770 480 4041.

While Not Milton related....

we had to share the following video with our readers. It is amazing what can happen when an imagination takes hold and this is the result. We'll never look at a jump rope the same again!

Enjoy!

http://soonereyo.blip.tv/#1826380

City Council Meeting Monday / 4.13.09 / 6pm

All:

There is a Milton City Council meeting this Monday evening.

Click here for the agenda=>
http://www.cityofmiltonga.us/cityclerk/council/2009/04-13-2009-Agenda.pdf

Click here for the Agenda Packet=>
http://www.cityofmiltonga.us/cityclerk/council/2009/04-13-2009-Agenda.pdf

A Day With The Mayor

Tim Lester, T.J. Jr. and Mayor Joe Lockwood

Tim Lester, a former professional football player for the Los Angeles Rams, Pittsburgh Steelers and Dallas Cowboys who now resides in Milton, recently won a "Day with the Mayor" in a silent auction at the Milton High School Red and Silver Ball. On Monday, April 6, Lester and his wife, Natalie, brought their children to City Hall and met with Mayor Joe Lockwood. Lockwood led the Lesters on a tour of the building and gave the family a ride around town in a fire truck. One of their sons, 3-year-old T.J. Lester Jr. was thrilled to sit in one of Milton's police cars.

MBA Meeting This Week.

Reminder of the upcoming MBA meeting April 16th, 6:00pm at Miltons Cuisine and Cocktails in downtown Crabapple. Lt. Travis Parker will be speaking about Identity Theft. There will be a $5 charge for appetizers.

May 21st will be the next meeting at The Olde Blind Dog. This will be an outside event so we will keep you updated on the weather. Jan Jones, our State Rep, will be speakings so make sure you are there for that.Please feel free to pass this message along to anyone you think may be interested in joining the MBA.

Lauren Holmes
Managing Broker, MMDC, e-PRO, ABR
Office: (678) 240-2201Cell: (770) 365-5800Direct Fax: (678) 906-4348

To find out more about the Milton Business Alliance, please click here=>
http://www.accessmilton.com/MBA.php

Easter eggs are specially decorated eggs given out to celebrate the Easter holiday or springtime. It is the influence of the traditional spring rites that made Easter so egg-special. And myths coming down to us from an incredibly distant past have shown man's relationship with the egg to be very deep seated one. This is caught in old Latin proverb: "Omne vivum ex ovo". This means "all life comes from an egg". Not just the Latin saying, eggs are just laid well over all corners of the world. From ancient India to Polynesia, from Iran, Greece, and Phonecia to Latvia, Estonia, and Finland, from Central America to the west coast of South America, there are reports of myths of the whole universe created out of an egg. Thus, it is not unusual that in almost all ancient cultures eggs had been held as an emblem of life. The concept of all living beings born from an egg is also a foundational concept of modern biology.

But how did eggs come to be associated with Easter?

Despite claims being made that Easter Eggs were originally pagan symbols, there is no solid evidence for this. It was not until the 18th Century that Jakob Grimm theorised a putative pagan connection to Easter Eggs with a goddess of his own whom he named Ostara, a suggested German version of Eostre.At the Passover Seder, a hard-boiled egg dipped in salt water symbolizes both new life and the Passover sacrifice offered at the Temple in Jerusalem. The ancient Persians painted eggs for Nowrooz, their New Year celebration falling on the Spring Equinox. This tradition has continued every year on Nowrooz since ancient times.In Christian times, the egg was a symbol of new life just as a chick might hatch from the egg. The Easter egg tradition may have celebrated the end of the privations of Lent. In the Medieval Europe, eggs were forbidden during Lent as well as other traditional fast days. During the strict Lenten fast of forty days no eggs were eaten. It was traditional to use up all of the household's eggs before Lent began, which established the tradition of Pancake Day. This was because, in Christian times, the egg was a symbol of new life just as a chick might hatch from the egg. Eggs were viewed as symbols of new life and fertility through the ages.

It is believed that for this reason many ancient cultures, including the Ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Romans, used eggs during their spring festivals. In Eastern Christianity, both meat and dairy are still prohibited during the fast, and eggs are seen as "dairy" (a foodstuff that could be taken from an animal without shedding its blood). That is the reason why eggs laid during that time were often boiled or otherwise preserved. It was during Easter that the consumption of eggs resumed after the strict Lenten fast. Eggs were thus a mainstay of Easter meals, and a prized Easter gift for children and servants. And this is probably the reason why eggs came to be associated with Easter.Many traditions and practices have formed around Easter eggs. In Europe an egg was hung on New Year trees, on Maypoles, and on St. John's trees in midsummer. Indeed, all were of one accord in using the egg as a symbol of the regenerative forces of nature. Later during the Christian period, it was believed that eggs laid on Good Friday, if kept for a hundred years, would have their yolks turn to diamond. If Good Friday eggs were cooked on Easter they would promote the fertility of the trees and crops and protect against sudden deaths. And, if you would find two yolks in an Easter egg, be sure, you're going to be rich soon. That's what they believed! An Orthodox tradition related with Easter celebrations is the presenting of red colored eggs to friends while giving Easter greetings. According to a History channel documentary about Mary Magdalene and her role in Christianity, the custom derives from a biblical event. After the Ascension of Christ, Mary supposedly went to the Emperor of Rome and greeted him with "Christ is risen", whereupon he stated, "Christ has not risen no more than that egg is red" (pointing to an egg on his table). After making this statement it is said the egg immediately turned blood red.[citation needed] She then began preaching Christianity to him. The egg is symbolic of the grave and life renewed by breaking out of it. The red symbolizes the blood of Christ redeeming the world, represented by the egg, and our regeneration through the bloodshed for us by Christ. The egg itself is a symbol of the Resurrection while being dormant it contains a new life sealed within it.The coloring of eggs is a established art, and eggs are often dyed, painted, and otherwise decorated. Eggs were also used in various holiday games: parents would hide eggs for children to find, and children would roll eggs down hills. These practices live on in Easter egg hunts and egg rolls. The most famous egg roll takes place on the White House lawn every year.The oldest tradition is to use dyed and painted chicken eggs, but a modern custom is to substitute chocolate eggs, or plastic eggs filled with confectionery such as jellybeans. Candy Easter eggs can be any form of confectionery such as hollow chocolate eggs wrapped in brightly-colored foil. Some are delicately constructed of spun sugar and pastry decoration techniques. The ubiquitous jelly egg or jellybean is made from sugar-coated pectin candy. These are often hidden, supposedly by the Easter Bunny, for children to find on Easter morning. The Spanish dish hornazo (traditionally eaten on and around Easter) contains hard-boiled eggs as a primary ingredient. In the North of England, at Eastertime, a traditional game is played where hard boiled pace eggs are distributed and each player hits the other players egg with their own. This is known as "egg dumping" or "egg jarping". The winner is the holder of the last intact egg. The losers get to eat their eggs. It is also practiced in Bulgaria, Croatia, Serbia, the Republic of Srpska and other countries. They call it tucanje. In parts of Bavaria, Austria and German-speaking Switzerland it is called Ostereiertitschen. In South Louisiana this practice is called Pocking Eggs and is slightly different. The Cajuns hold that the winner eats the eggs of the losers in each round.There are many other decorating techniques and numerous traditions of giving them as a token of friendship, love or good wishes. A tradition exists in some parts of the United Kingdom (such as Scotland and North East England) of rolling painted eggs down steep hills on Easter Sunday. In the U.S., such an Easter egg roll (unrelated to an eggroll) is often done on flat ground, pushed along with a spoon; the Easter Egg Roll has become a much-loved annual event on the White House lawn. An Easter egg hunt is a common festive activity, where eggs are hidden outdoors (or indoors if in bad weather) for children to run around and find. This may also be a contest to see who can collect the most eggs.Hanácké kraslice, Easter eggs from the Haná region, the Czech Republic, decorated with strawEaster eggs are a widely popular symbol of new life in Ukraine and other Slavic countries' folk traditions. A batik-like decorating process known as pysanka produces intricate, brilliantly-colored eggs.

The celebrated Fabergé workshops created exquisite jewelled Easter eggs for the Russian Imperial Court. A 27-foot (9 m) sculpture of a pysanka stands in Vegreville, Alberta.When boiling hard-cooked eggs for Easter, a popular tan colour can be achieved by boiling the eggs with onion skin. In the North of England these are called pace-eggs or paste-eggs. They were usually eaten after an egg-jarping (egg-tapping) competition.Deep-fried chocolate Easter eggs are sold around Easter time in Scottish fish and chips shops. The idea was invented in a northeastern Scottish takeaway as a sequel to the extremely popular deep fried Mars Bar.

Recently Easter eggs have been specially prepared keeping in mind those who are visually-impaired. These are called "Beeping Easter eggs" - Easter eggs that emit various clicks and noises so that the visually-impaired children can hunt for them. Some make a single, high-pitched sound and others play a melody. The purpose of this is to include one and all in the joyous Easter celebrations and to spread happiness and goodwill among everyone. After all, that is what Easter is all about.

What The Hail?

Here is a picture of the Hail the hit about 15 minutes ago in Milton. My entire driveway was solid hail, it melted before I was able to grab my camera and snap a picture, it was completely covered. Yikes!

- Milton Resident

Many thanks to this reader for sharing these great pictures with us!

Milton Public Works Director Leaves Post

By DOUG NURSE
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Friday, April 10, 2009

The Milton Public Works director has left his job with the city.
CH2M Hill, the private company hired to provide most day-to-day services for the city, released Dan Drake last Friday. Drake joined the city about two years ago.

Carter Lucas, another CH2M Hill employee from the Shared Services Department, is filling in. Shared Services is a pool of skill-specific staff that can be moved between the three cities who have hired CH2M Hill, Sandy Springs, Milton and Johns Creek.

New cities say they’re losing out on police money

By DOUG NURSE
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Thursday, April 09, 2009

The cities of Johns Creek, Milton and Sandy Springs feel like they’re losing out on their share of $5.6 million in federal stimulus money because they’re new.

The Department of Justice is doling out money to almost every local law enforcement agency in the nation. But the grant is based on three calendar years of Uniform Crime Reports, a statistical crime summary each city compiles annually.

None of the cities’ police departments have been around for three calendar years. Sandy Springs police hit the streets February 2006; Milton police in May 2007; Johns Creek in April 2008.
Based on nearby cities of approximate size and amount of crime, city and county officials project the money may not be more than $200,000 for all three of them. By comparison, Alpharetta is set to collect $66,000; Roswell $98,000.

Susan Oliver, public affairs specialist for the federal Office of Justice Programs, said that the money for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant has already been allocated. Fulton County and its other cities are applying for $5.6 million. She said the new cities could ask for a piece of their pie.

“Fat chance,” said Johns Creek City Manager John Kachmar. “Crime did occur in this area. It’s not fair that we wouldn’t get an allocation. Fulton County got our share of the money.”
Chris Lagerbloom, city manager for Milton, agreed.

“We can give them three years of data, just two of it will be from Fulton and one from Milton,” Lagerbloom said.

Fulton County no longer has an obligation to fund police protection in the areas that have incorporated, said Rob Hernandez, deputy county manager.

“I understand their argument,” he said. “If they were part of the county system, we could use those funds to benefit those communities.”

Oliver said more money is coming from the Department of Justice that the cities can tap into. She said Georgia is receiving another $36 million, about 60 percent of which is going to local governments.