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Monday, January 31, 2011

The Beverage Depot: Milton's Super Bowl Party Center!


To find out more about The Beverage Depot, click here =>http://www.accessmilton.com/Advertisers/BeverageDepot.php

Travis Allen Named Historic Commission Chair.

By Tim Enloe; Accessmilton.com

Long time resident Travis Allen was recently named chairmen of the Milton Historic Preservation commission during the group’s first official meeting on January 26th. Other appointments are Joan Borzilleri as secretary and Mark Hancock as vice chair. Remaining members include Patti Silva, Norman Broadwell, Ken Sisson, and new Milton resident Veronica Buckman.

Topics included the legal aspects of the group, how things would be structured, as well as the eligibility of nominated landmarks. Numerous suggestions to preserve the history of the area were mentioned from both members of the committee as well as residents.

Applications for consideration had already been received prior to this article being written.

Renew & $ave at Le Grande Salon & Spa.


Le Grande would like to welcome Debbie & Miera to our team !!!

Debbie has been a hair stylist and color specialist for over 20 years. Her specialties include color, highlights and hairstyles for all ages.

Debbie is creative, fun and she will make you feel great with each visit.

Please stop by for a free consultation and enjoy an introductory haircut & style for $25.

Miera has been a licensed massage therapist since 1985. She combines Swedish, deep tissue and energy work.

You will experience a feeling of ease and joy creating , an internal harmony to nourish your body & soul.

Enjoy a 60 minute massage with Miera, for $49.95.

Pre-book Monday through Wednesday and receive the following discounts:

One Hour Result Focus Facial $49.95

One Hour Swedish Massage $49.95 (with Miera)

90 minute Aveda Fusion Hot Stone Massage $75.00 (Genevieve)

Spa Manicure and Pedicure for $25.00

Root Touch up $45

Partial hi-lites $55

Brow Wax $12

$5 off Gel-Polish by Axxium or Gelish

(First time guests for gel polish discount)

Keratin Smoothing Treatments starting at $198

(Please call for more details expire 2.12.11)

Le Grande Salon and Spa

An Aveda Concept

980 Birmingham Rd. Suite #712

Alpharetta, Ga. 30004

(678) 526-6067


LeGrandeDaySpa@Bellsouth.net

www.LeGrandeDaySpa.com


Please mention promotions when booking appointments.

Front desk will verify client email before applying email specials. A 24 hr. notice of cancellation is required. Restrictions may apply. Cannot combine with other offers.

There's no greater compliment than a referral to your friends and family. Thank you for your business.


To find out more about Legrande Salon & Day Spa, click here=>

http://www.accessmilton.com/Advertisers/LeGrande.php

Milton citizens Have Option To Learn CPR from The Best.

by Tim Enloe; Accessmilton.com

The Milton fire department will be offering lifesaving techniques to citizens via numerous classes which kick off February 5th at 10am at Fire Station 43.

Residents will be educated on how to help a choking victim, the proper manner to apply CPR, as well as the use of various life saving types of equipment.

While no official certification will be given, tax payers will receive training which will be a great benefit should an emergency situation arise.

For more information, contact Lt Scanlan at 404 376 0924.

Sunday, January 30, 2011

Government Committee Passes Plan for Internet ‘Kill Switch’ in Egypt and U.S.?

Courtesy Meredith Jessup

Pending legislation that would grant the President of the United States the power to pull the plug on the country’s internet access in a declared “emergency” returned to the forefront this week on the same day Egyptians faced a nation-wide blackout designed to curtail widespread government protests. Egypt flipped it’s so-called “kill switch” — will the U.S.?

The bipartisan bill is sponsored by Maine Sen. Susan Collins, the ranking Republican on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. The bill — called “The Protecting Cyberspace As A National
Asset Act of 2010” S.3480 — was approved by a Senate panel this week.

S. 3480 would create a new government agency called the National Center for Cybersecurity and Communications. The NCCC would have sweeping powers to control the Internet, including the ability to shut down the web for a 30-day period. Considering that at least 60% of Americans get their daily news fix from the Internet, this is a staggering proposal.

Blaze writer Mike Opelka also notes that groups such as the ACLU see this proposed legislation potentially giving the President a giant kill switch for the Internet. Before the bill moves to the Senate floor for a vote, the ACLU has formally noted their disapproval.

While Collins insists her bill would not grant the president the same powers as Egypt’s Hosni Mubarak has exercised this week, many are wondering what kinds of implications the measure would have on Americans’ freedom.

Many in the high-tech world join the ACLU in questioning the bill as well.

Many thanks to Melissa K for bringing this story to our attention.

Milton fitness camp changing habits, lives.

By Accessmilton.com

The City of Milton and CorePhysique’s weekly fitness camps are changing both the habits and lives of participants, said founder Kolleen Riddick.

At the Run for Cover 5K road race Jan. 23, seven Milton fitness campers took to the streets, bringing home four medals. Two of those, Tracy Hosmer and Maggie Roberts, had never run in a race before, said Riddick. Hosmer came in second in her age bracket, while Roberts placed third.

“Running in my first race ever was both fun and rewarding,” said Roberts. “Kolleen has encouraged me to face my fears and push myself to a higher level of fitness.”

Kari Sykes said six months ago she never would have been able to run the 3.1 miles. She came in first in her age bracket at the race.

“Thanks to the Milton fitness camp, I now have the physical and mental stamina to compete,” said Sykes.

Want to be one of the people changing her life through improved fitness? The next thrice-weekly, 12-class session is scheduled from Feb. 7 to March 4.

Click here for more information.

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Senator Albers Co-Sponsors "Taxpayer Protection Act"

Courtesy Senate Press Office

ATLANTA – (January 27, 2011) State Senator John Albers (R-Roswell) has Co-Sponsored Senate Resolution 20 - “Taxpayer Protection Act of 2011”. The proposed Constitutional Amendment would limit how many tax dollars the state of Georgia can spend in any given year.

“The message from my constituents is crystal clear – control government spending. I am honored to co-sponsor this measure which allows the voters to make certain Georgia government spending is under control. Legislators have an obligation to be fiscally responsible. This measure will make sure we live to this standard,” said Senator John Albers.

“Senator Albers has already proven himself a leader on helping control state spending. I appreciate his support on this important issue. The Taxpayer Protection Act will protect future generations of Georgians from government growing too large,” said Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers, the sponsor of the Resolution.

Senate Resolution 20 would restrict the state from spending any money in excess of the previous year budget adjusted for inflation and population. Any additional revenue beyond the spending limitations would be required to go into the Rainy Day fund until it reaches a point of 10% of the previous year spending. Once the rainy day fund is at 10% additional revenue would be used to slowly phase-out the state income tax.

The Amendment was approved Wednesday by the Senate Finance Committee in a unanimous bi-partisan vote.

HYA and Jr. Eagles hold skills day camp Saturday.

By Accessmilton.com

Cost is $30 for ages 7 to 10


MILTON, GA, Jan. 27, 2011 - The Milton Jr. Eagles elite travel baseball team and Hopewell Youth Association (HYA) will present the "Hopewell Baseball Skills Day Camp" this Saturday, Jan. 29 from noon to 3 p.m. at Milton's Bell Memorial Park.

Cost for the camp, open to players from 7 to 10 years old, is $30. Drinks will be provided. The camp will only be held weather permitting. To download a sign-up form for the camp, click here.

HYA organizers said players and coaches from the Jr. Eagles will teach fielding, throwing, hitting and base-running fundamentals, as well as pitching and catching for older players. The day will finish with a scrimmage during which players will receive instruction.

For more information on this camp, please contact coach Brett Moore at 404-964-9806 or e-mail moorebrett2002@yahoo.com.

HYA, a longstanding, non-profit organization, schedules and programs the baseball activities at Milton's Bell Memorial Park through a joint agreement with the City of Milton. For more information about the programs, including a full schedule, visit the group's Web site at www.hopewellbaseball.org.

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Sen. Albers Encourages Students to Enter Contest.

Courtesy Senate Press Office

ATLANTA (January 26, 2011) – Sen. John Albers (R-Roswell) announced today that middle and high school students are eligible to enter the statewide annual Holocaust Art and Writing Contest sponsored by the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust in cooperation with the Georgia Department of Education. The contests “What Are the Lessons of the Holocaust?” began in 1995 and include Music for the first time this year.

“These contests are a great educational tool that inspires students to take the initiative to learn more about a critical time in our history,” said Albers. “This program is a great example of the kind of creativity our schools need to truly engage students. I encourage every student to take advantage of this important opportunity to blend their artistic talents with a fundamental understanding of how the tragic events of the Holocaust have shaped our world.”

The contests encourage students to learn the lessons of the Holocaust and the nature and repercussions of unchecked hate and prejudice. Winning students will be presented cash awards during the official State of Georgia Days of Remembrance of the Victims of the Holocaust ceremony in the State Capitol Building in May 2011.

The Georgia Commission on the Holocaust provides quality character education programs throughout the State of Georgia. The Commission deals with hate speech, bullying and other issues concerning discrimination in today’s society.

Guidelines and the deadline for What Are the Lessons of the Holocaust Art, Writing and Music Contests can be found on the Commission’s website www.holocaust.georgia.gov or by calling (678) 839-6281.

Appliance Man At It Again.

By Tim Enloe; Accessmilton.com

A local real estate agent contacted Milton Police on January 19th due to a theft at one of her listings. Milton Police Officer Fraser relayed that some major appliances including a refrigerator and stove had been taken.

It is believed that the dastardly fellow entered through the garage or basement window. There has been no sign of him since.

Cumming Resident Ticketed For DUI.

By Tim Enloe; Accessmilton.com

Lynn Olander of Forsyth was ticketed for failure to stop and DUI earlier this month.

The offending driver failed to stop at the intersection of Morris Road and Bethany Bend in Milton on the early morning of January 22nd.

Milton Police Officer Grey pulled the Red Ford Escape over and handled the stop.

Take Out The Paper and Keep The Cash!

By Tim Enloe; Accessmilton.com

Mark Fleck of Alpharetta was arrested for stealing over $3,000 from his employer on January 13, 2011. The nineteen year old was supposed to make a company deposit but the funds never made it to the account which was confirmed by investigators. After the date in question, the employee was out for two days on sick leave.

When Milton Police Officer Johnson was called to the scene on January 18th, the employee was at work but still denied the theft.

Don’t Give Me No Lies & Keep Your Hands To Yourself!

By Tim Enloe; Accessmilton.com

Jose Adalid Sanchez Bustos of Roswell was arrested by Milton Police for the attempted rape of a female under the age of 16 on January 18th.

Charges include rape and simple / sexual battery. It is unknown if the accused man is a legal resident or not.

Exide Technologies Announces Preliminary Results of Tender Offer.

Courtesy After Market News

MILTON, Ga. -- Exide Technologies has announced the results, to date, of its cash tender offer for its outstanding 10 ½ percent Senior Secured Notes due 2013, and the related consent solicitation to amend the indenture governing the Notes.

The tender offer and the consent solicitation are being made on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase and Consent Solicitation Statement dated Jan. 10 and the related letter of transmittal and consent.

At or prior to 5 p.m. EST on Jan. 24, approximately $276 million aggregate principal amount of Notes, representing approximately 95.20 percent of the aggregate principal amount of Notes outstanding, had been validly tendered. The company said it intends to accept for purchase all $276 million aggregate principal amount of Notes validly tendered prior to the Consent Deadline. Accordingly, Exide says it has received consents sufficient to approve the proposed amendments to the indenture governing the Notes.


The tender offer remains open and will expire at midnight on Feb. 7 unless extended by the company.

The total consideration to be paid for Notes that were validly tendered prior to the Consent Deadline will be equal to $1,014 for each $1,000 in principal amount of Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such principal amount of Notes to, but not including, the date of payment for the Notes accepted for purchase.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Milton County legislation back for another try.

North Fulton legislators re-introduced a bill Monday that could lead to the re-creation of Milton County, hoping this year is the turning point for a proposal that failed in previous sessions.

The enabling legislation for a statewide vote on a constitutional amendment allowing previously merged counties to re-form could pave the way for the affluent parts of north Fulton to break away from the more urban southern part of the county.

Facing bankruptcy during the Great Depression, the former Milton County merged with Fulton in 1932. Breaking loose again would require a statewide referendum on a constitutional amendment to surpass the 159-county cap, then another referendum asking north Fulton voters if they want Milton re-established.

"I’m encouraged this year because the people have spoken in Georgia and across the country that they want less, more efficient government that is closer to the people," said Sen. John Albers, R-Roswell.

Rep. Roger Bruce, an Atlanta Democrat vowing to fight the measure, said he’s already talking to the U.S. Justice Department about a potential voting rights violation. The loss would have disastrous economic effects on the county left behind, he said, but south Fulton would have no say in the final referendum.

“To me, this is like taking somebody and chopping off their arm or their leg and expecting them to be the same," Bruce said.

If the business community and the Legislative Black Caucus unite against the Milton effort, Republicans have an uphill slog ahead, said University of Georgia political science professor Charles Bullock.

The GOP is still six short of a supermajority in the House and two short of a supermajority in the Senate. An effort to split affluent suburbs from an urban core is bound to have racial overtones, which will put pressure on white Democrats with large black constituencies, Bullock said.

“It’s close, in terms of what the Republicans can do by themselves,” he said. “Operating alone, it doesn’t quite make it.”

The bill is in the House State Planning and Community Affairs Committee, whose chairman, Tommy Smith, R- Nicholls, said he has no opinion on the split, but favors letting north Fulton voters decide.

Legal Fees Thus Far From T-Mobile Fight.

By Tim Enloe; Accessmilton.com

With the legal fight between the City of Milton and T-mobile at it's early stages, the city attorney fees thus far have amounted to $759.72.

Typically, lawsuits of this caliber can last up to 24 months.

Many thanks to City of Milton Employees Kim Trawick, Jason Wright, Chris Lagerbloom and Sudie Gordon for providing this information to Accessmilton.com.

Milton Police Looking Out For You!


By Tim Enloe; Accessmilton.com

Domestic Battery Takes Place in "Rural" Milton.

A Milton man residing on Creek Bridge Lane was arrested for battery at his home on January 10th.

While his ex-wife had moved out recently, she had asked if she could stay the night due to the dangerous icy roads. While he agreed, the drunken man in question pursued her into a guest room where an argument erupted. The fighting turned violent as he attacked the woman, grabbing her by the throat. In retaliation, the ex-wife returned the favor with a punch in the nose to him.

From there, she ran to a neighbor's house where Milton Officers Baronian and Taylor were called to the scene.

Williams Pack, 52, was charged with battery, simple battery and aggravated assault/domestic violence.

Citizens Cash Prefers A Colder Climate?

Identity theft continues to be alive and well in Milton, Georgia.

A male resident of Milton came to find out a fraudelent charge of an estimated $250 dollars was taken at a HomeGoods Store in the state of Michigan in early January.

Milton Police took the report, but due to the crime taking place outside of city limits, all they could do was file it as an "information only" report.

The citizen in question contacted his bank where a refund was en route.

Speeding Never Takes Place In Milton!

Milton Police Officer Fergosi was sent to a single vehicle wreck in the open road neighborhood of Providence Road on the evening of January 14th.

When he arrived, the offending driver of the damaged BMW 325I was no where to be found. Officer Fergosi went on to let the property owners know about the damaged fence while fellow Officer Sgt Taylor tracked down the suspect at his place of residence.

The driver would later state that he went home to make a copy of his insurance.

Matthew T. Altenburg of the White Columns Subdivision was given two tickets; one for driving too fast for conditions and another for failure to let the homeowner know of the damage to his property.

Rescuing large animals in Milton.

Team is unique in the state.

by Jonathan Copsey/Appen Newspapers

January 24, 2011

MILTON – Like most good ideas, Milton's Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue team started with a question.

"A woman came into the fire station one day in August 2008, and asked me how the department would handle a problem with an overturned horse trailer," explained Battalion Chief Bill Bourn, leader of Milton's TLAER team. "I didn't really have a good answer for her, because we had never dealt with that before."

From there, Milton became the only city in the state with its own crew capable of handling such an emergency. For Bourn, it only makes sense, given Milton's rural nature and the number of farms and stables in the surrounding area.

Currently, there are six members on the TLAER team – all firefighters – who have been trained in the rescue of large animals, be they horses or cows or donkeys. The team responds to emergency calls just like any other crew, however Bourn and his group will go to neighboring communities, usually armed with a crane, to help a stranded or injured animal.

According to Bourn, the TLAER team has responded to about 50 calls for help so far.

"The majority of our calls are older horses that have laid down and, for whatever reason, cannot get back up," explained Bourn. For such a call, the team puts the animal in a special sling and lifts it up, allowing the animal to rest a while and then helping it stay on its feet. If there is a medical problem with the animal, veterinarians will often accompany the team on a call.

But Bourn has had horses stuck in places they shouldn't be – such as a ravine, mud or a creek bed. During the extensive flooding several years ago, the team had a call in Sandy Springs to rescue 40 horses from a flooding stable.

Each member of the team must be specially trained, and there are two separate distinctions – operations and awareness. The operations level is the highest level available, and all six TLAER members are trained to that. The rest of Milton's fire department is trained to the awareness level.

The team uses specialized equipment for their rescues. The big items are an "A" frame, used as a crane, and a horse mannequin, specially ordered from England at a cost of $10,000, to practice on instead of live, sedated animals.

For those concerned about the costs of such a specialized team, they need not worry; the TLAER crew is entirely supported by donations.

"Not all of the taxpayers receive the benefits of this service," explained Bourn. "We needed to collect a lot of money to purchase the equipment needed." Instead of taking the year Bourn expected the fundraising to take, he was able to buy all his equipment in a few short months.

"We put the word out to the horse groups and the citizens and were met with an overwhelming response," Bourn said.

GDOT: 'Spend grant money or give it back'


The Bethwell Community Center, located near the intersection of Francis Road and Hopewell Road, will be renovated to house summer camps this summer.

by Jonathan Copsey; Appen Newspapers

MILTON – The city of Milton has been informed it must either spend $500,000 in grant money or give it back to the Georgia Department of Transpo** The council approved drafting an emergency agreement for the purchase of land on Highway 9 at their Jan. 19 council meeting.

Public Works Director Carter Lucas informed City Council that the Crabapple Streetscape "TE" (Transportation Enhancement) Grant was allocated by GDOT for streetscape improvements to the Crabapple area. He was recently told that the city it has only two years to spend the grant, or they forfeit it.

"While that sounds like a long time, following through federal purchasing practices... that two years can go relatively quickly," Lucas said.


The city has been waiting to spend the money until several studies and plans were completed.

"Our concern is that if we begin projects without knowing the results of those two studies, we have the potential of installing project improvements that may be removed shortly thereafter as a result of those studies," said Lucas.

The options available to the city, as Lucas described them, were to move forward with spending the money in Crabapple, give it back or move it to projects on Highway 9.

Council member Karen Thurman suggested using some of the money on sidewalks throughout Crabapple, however Lucas warned that may be a waste of money if the plans they are waiting on call for other improvements in those areas.

The general consensus from council was to try and keep the money to projects within Crabapple.

Also discussed at the meeting:

** The council approved drafting an emergency agreement for the purchase of land on Highway 9 at their Jan. 19 council meeting.

According to City Manager Chris Lagerbloom, the proposal was necessary.

The city is currently trying to buy the five-acre piece of property located near the intersection of Bethany Bend and Highway 9. To get financing for the purchase, the city must put the deal out to bid to banks in the area. The only problem comes should Bank of America bid.

"Within 24 hours of them responding with their bid, the council must take action to agree to it," explained Lagerbloom. With the bids due Friday, Feb. 15, if Bank of America makes its bid and is the best choice for the financing, the council would not be able to act on it within the allotted time. So an emergency resolution was needed.


"If a different bank is selected, then this resolution is really just a formality," said Lagerbloom. "This is just a mechanism to make sure that we don't have one of those gotcha moments next Friday where we really want to accept their bid but we can't."

** More than $15,000 will be spent renovating the Bethwell Community Center, located at the corner of Francis Road and Hopewell Road.

According to Lagerbloom, the city was deeded the one-acre, prime piece of property to use as a community center. However, should it not be used for that, ownership would revert back to the previous owners.

Lagerbloom said that once the renovations are complete, in mid-year, the community center will be used for summer camps.

** The dugouts at Bell Memorial Park will be torn down and new ones built at a cost of $14,000. Currently, they are built of cinder blocks, which will be replaced with chain link fencing to make the players more visible.

Friday, January 21, 2011

Bring One for the Chipper 2011 collects 687 trees.

Volunteers record 43 percent increase from 2010.

MILTON, GA, Jan. 21, 2011 - The City of Milton and Milton Grows Green Committee (MGG) are proud to announce volunteers collected 687 Christmas trees for recycling at Bring One for the Chipper 2011, making this year's event the most successful yet. That total represents an increase of 43 percent over last year.

This year recyclers dropped off Christmas trees at three locations Sunday, Jan. 2: Milton High School, King's Ridge Christian School and Scottsdale Farms. Boy Scout Troop No. 841 also used the drop-off points for its annual tree pick-up effort and volunteered at each spot. The resulting mulch, chipped by Todd Harkleroad and Lilburn-based Casey Tree Service, will be used at Crabapple Crossing Elementary School.

Click here to see photos from the event.

Special thanks to Starbucks, RBC Bank, Publix, Walmart, Brooklyn Joe's Pizza, Ray's New York Pizza and Scottsdale Farms for their food, drink, and financial donations and support of this effort.

Last year Milton residents brought 480 trees to be chipped, a more than 50 percent increase over 2009.

The Bring One for the Chipper program, in conjunction with Keep Georgia Beautiful, has recycled more than 4.8 million Christmas trees since the program's launch.

MGG coordinates the efforts of individual volunteers and community-based organizations through the efforts of its own members, including Milton residents, business partners and those with an interest in the environment. For more information, e-mail mgg@cityofmiltonga.us.

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Copper thieves hit foreclosed home.

Courtesy Appen Newspapers

MILTON – A foreclosed home on Hopewell Road was broken into sometime during the final week of 2010, and several copper pipes were stolen.

The garage door was broken into and an unknown number of copper piping was taken from the home's heating system, including the furnace. Thefts of copper fixtures have been a common source of ready cash to thieves who sell the metal for scrap.

Thief takes washer, dryer, stove.

Courtesy Appen Newspapers

MILTON – A foreclosed home on Commonwealth Way was broken into about Jan. 6 by burglars who stole heavy household appliances.

The real estate agent for the property found the front door pried open and discovered the washer, dryer, washing machine, stove, microwave and light fixtures were all taken from the home. The total approximate value of the stolen goods is several thousand dollars.

Post Jan. 19 City Council meeting wrap-up.

NEW BUSINESS

1. A resolution authorizing the city manager to execute time sensitive documents regarding the financing of the acquisition of certain real property located at 13690 Highway 9 Milton, Georgia, which will be financed or refinanced pursuant to either a lease-purchase agreement or an installment sale agreement between the Georgia Municipal Association, Inc. and the City of Milton, Georgia.

(Chris Lagerbloom, City Manager)
Emergency item added by motion and unanimous vote
Approved 6-0 (Councilman Joe Longoria was absent)

On A National Note...

Double Click To Enlarge Image.

South Carolina NAACP Shields Audience From…George Washington?

Courtesy Theblaze.com

The South Carolina NAACP honored Martin Luther King Jr. Day Monday while simultaneously dishonoring the nation’s first president.

An organized rally — dubbed “King Day at the Dome” — protested the Confederate battle flag on display at the State House in Columbia and featured speakers and guests who called on government leaders to address “racial disparities” in education, health care, community development, criminal justice, employment and economic development in the state. But as a number of local and national speakers stepped forward to speak from the capitol steps, a large bronze statue of George Washington was conspicuously hidden (h/t Atlas Shrugs).

A large box covered with cloth hid the father of the country from view of the rally’s guests.

It‘s not clear why the NAACP insisted on covering up the likeness of the nation’s first president and a spokesman for the organization was not immediately available for comment.

Update: The South Carolina NAACP has responded to a request for comment and said the only reason the statue of Washington was covered up was for aesthetic purposes. “We had created a backdrop behind the speakers,” the group spokesman told The Blaze late Tuesday afternoon, noting that someone in his organization forgot to post an NAACP placard on the backdrop.

According to the group, the statue of Washington has been covered each year for the annual rally. The spokesman said he was “at a loss for words” as to why covering President Washington would offend anyone, claiming it was “non-sensical” for people to believe it may have been politically motivated.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Support Our Milton Police Officers.


Courtesy CNN

Police Officers put their lives on the line each and every day. In seeing the heroism of this everyday citizen, it give me hope that others will start supporting the officers in their community.

Many thanks to the Milton Police Officers for all they do.

A Quick Education on TB.


NOTE: With the recent case of tuberculosis at a local school, we thought the following information might be of interest to Accessmilton.com readers.

Tuberculosis or TB (short for tubercles bacillus) is a common and often deadly infectious disease caused by various strains of mycobacteria, usually Mycobacterium tuberculosis in humans.[1] Tuberculosis usually attacks the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. It is spread through the air when people who have the disease cough, sneeze, or spit.[2] Most infections in humans result in an asymptomatic, latent infection, and about one in ten latent infections eventually progresses to active disease, which, if left untreated, kills more than 50% of its victims.

The classic symptoms are a
chronic cough with blood-tinged sputum, fever, night sweats, and weight loss (the last giving rise to the formerly prevalent colloquial term "consumption"). Infection of other organs causes a wide range of symptoms. Diagnosis relies on radiology (commonly chest X-rays), a tuberculin skin test, blood tests, as well as microscopic examination and microbiological culture of bodily fluids. Treatment is difficult and requires long courses of multiple antibiotics. Contacts are also screened and treated if necessary. Antibiotic resistance is a growing problem in (extensively) multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis. Prevention relies on screening programs and vaccination, usually with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine.

One third of the
world's population is thought to be infected with M. tuberculosis,[3][4] and new infections occur at a rate of about one per second.[5] The proportion of people who become sick with tuberculosis each year is stable or falling worldwide but, because of population growth, the absolute number of new cases is still increasing.[5] In 2007 there were an estimated 13.7 million chronic active cases, 9.3 million new cases, and 1.8 million deaths, mostly in developing countries.[6] In addition, more people in the developed world are contracting tuberculosis because their immune systems are compromised by immunosuppressive drugs, substance abuse, or AIDS. The distribution of tuberculosis is not uniform across the globe; about 80% of the population in many Asian and African countries test positive in tuberculin tests, while only 5-10% of the US population test positive.[1]

To find out more about this disease, please click here=>

TEACHER TESTS POSITIVE FOR ACTIVE TB

Tom Regan, WSB-TV

January 19, 2011

ALPHARETTA, Ga. -- Some metro Atlanta parents were notified this week that their children came in contact with someone diagnosed with a case of active tuberculosis, Channel 2 Action News confirmed.

A parent, who agreed to speak to Channel 2 Action News reporter Tom Regan on condition of anonymity, said he received a letter stating that his 19-month-old daughter may have been exposed. He provided Regan with a copy of the letter.

Regan tracked down officials with the Forsyth County Health Department, who confirmed that 15 letters were sent home Tuesday to parents of pre-school students advising of the possible exposure to TB at Oak Grove Academy in the 3400 block of Francis Road in Alpharetta.
Health department officials told Regan they were first notified on Jan. 13 that a teacher at Oak Grove had sought medical care for TB. That teacher is now on leave, health department officials said.

“It’s not a dangerous situation, but one of concern,” said a Health department representative. “Parents should get their kids tested.”

Nurses will be on hand Friday to offer skin tests to students, health department officials said. If the test results are positive, a chest extra would follow, health department officials said.
Co-workers of the teacher have already been tested, but the results are not yet known, health department officials said.

Regan tried to get a comment from Oak Grove, but a school representative said the owner wouldn’t be available to comment until Thursday.

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Milton Grows Green "Snowjob rescheduled" meeting Thursday, January 20, at 6:30 p.m.

Friends of a "greener" Milton:

This year's first meeting of Milton Grows Green, after its postponement due to snow and icy road conditions, has ben rescheduled for this Thursday, January 20, 2011, from 6:30-8:00 p.m. at the Fire Station on Hickory Flat Road, near Birmingham Crossroads. Our upcoming meeting schedule is among the many items to be discussed, so please attend if you can!

Jon McPhail
Jon McPhail & Associates, LLC
P.O. Box 783
Alpharetta, GA 30009-0783
770-442-9566 (V)
770-442-1834 (F)
jonmcphail@mindspring.com

Milton to consider nearly $30,000 in community improvements.

By Patrick Fox
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution


The Milton City Council will consider spending close to $30,000 for improvements at two public facilities when it meets Wednesday.

Council members will weigh whether to spend $14,000 for demolition and construction of four dugouts at Bell Memorial Park. Officials said the current block dugouts are in disrepair and block the view of fans.

Officials will also consider two contracts totaling $15,000 for engineering and design work on Bethwell Community Center.

The meeting begins at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway.

Saturday, January 15, 2011

News Bits Around Milton.

By Tim Enloe; Accessmilton.com

Don't Drive Drunk.

Milton Police arrested Alexander Bassoff of Alpharetta for DUI in the early morning of January 9th.

The suspect was initially pulled over for failure to stop at the intersection of Highway 9 and Web Road.

Many thanks to the Milton Police for all they do to keep Milton residents safe!

Fire me? Fire You!

An employee who received the infamous pink slip on January 4 by Outcomes Health Information Solutions in Milton refused to part ways quietly.

Officers were called to escort the man off company property. The offender in question continued to be a problem when they arrived at the Alpharetta jail for booking. Charges included obstruction and trespass.

Whose That Knocking?

A foreclosed home in Milton on Commonwealth Way was recently robbed of it's appliances. The washer, dryer, stove, light fixtures and microwave were taken among other things. Forced entry allowed the thieves access.

The items were valued at an estimated $2000.00. Many thanks to Milton Officer Stephen for answering the call.

Thanks For The Credit!

A Milton man received a surprise new years gift on January 3rd. Arriving in the mail at his Foxhollow Run home was a Best Buy bill of $16,455.

The man planned on giving the police report to Best Buy to contest the charges.

City Hall closed Jan. 17 for MLK Day.

Photo from the Library of Congress.

Milton’s City Hall will be closed Monday, Jan. 17 in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. It will reopen Tuesday, Jan. 18 at 8:30 a.m.

In Memory.


Courtesy Boortz.com

From Neal: There are no words available to express my personal sense of loss at the passing of Royal Marshall. It's no stretch to say that I loved that man like he was my own brother. Royal had an unmatched sense of humor and a quick mind that made him a natural for radio, and his dedication to his colleagues and friends was only exceeded by his intense dedication to his family. Our program, WSB Radio and the entire Cox family has lost part of its very soul this day. I ask that you keep Royal, his wife Annette and his two precious and much-loved little girls, Amira and Ava, in your prayers.

(WSB Radio) - Raymond Royal Marshall, producer of the Neal Boortz Radio Show, died suddenly at his Atlanta home early Saturday. He was 43. Marshall is survived by his wife Annette, and two daughters, Amira, 4 and Ava, 2.

Marshall collapsed at his home. Paramedics responded to his wife's call to 911, but were unable to revive him. He was pronounced dead early Saturday at Grady Hospital.

"For 15 years it's been 'Royal and Belinda'" said Belinda Skelton, executive producer of the Neal Boortz Show. "My other half is gone. I don't know if I can sit and look at someone else on the other side of that glass."

Royal and Belinda interviewed at the station and were hired on the same day in 1996.

"Royal was an icon at WSB," said WSB Program Director Pete Spriggs. "I can't believe, frankly, that this is reality. He was a very, very, good man who was very passionate and committed to his wife and daughters, as well as his church and the community. You'll never hear a sharper wit than Royal's. The WSB family is devastated."

Marshall was also very active in his church and the community. He served as a deacon at the Ray of Hope Christian Church in Decatur.

He also served as chairman of the advisory board of Forever Family, an organization whose mission is to provide love and support to disadvantaged children.

Marshall was a military kid who, while born in St. Louis, Missouri, lived all over the world. He graduated from the University of Georgia in 1992 with a degree in speech communications.

The cause of death at this time remains unknown.

Jan. 19 City Council meeting notice.

Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011 Regular Meeting Agenda 6:00 p.m.

INVOCATION

CALL TO ORDER 1) ROLL CALL
2) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE (Led by the Mayor)
3) APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA (Add or remove items from the agenda) (Agenda Item No. 11-011)
4) PUBLIC COMMENT 5) CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approval of the January 5, 2011 Regular Minutes. (Agenda Item No. 11-012)
(Sudie Gordon, City Clerk)
2. Approval of a Contract with JJE Constructors, Inc. for Repairs to the Abutments on the Cogburn Road Bridge in the Amount of $13,500.00. (Agenda Item No. 11-013)
(Carter Lucas, Public Works Director)

3. Approval of a Professional Services Agreement between the City of Milton and Engineering & Inspection Systems, Inc. to Provide Civil Engineering, Planning and Design Services for Exterior Improvements as Part of the Bethwell Community Center Renovation Project in the Amount of $5,250.00.
(Agenda Item No. 11-014)
(Cyndee Bonacci, Parks and Recreation Director)
4. Approval of a Professional Services Agreement between the City of Milton and MPZ Architects, PC to Provide Architectural, Engineering and Design Services for the Building Improvements as Part of the Bethwell Community Center Renovation Project in the Amount of $9,850.00.
(Agenda Item No. 11-015)
(Cyndee Bonacci, Parks and Recreation Director)
5. Approval of a Construction Services Agreement Between the City of Milton and Marietta Fence Company for Demolition and Construction of Four New Dugouts at Bell Memorial Park in the Amount of $14,172.00.
(Agenda Item No. 11-016)
(Cyndee Bonacci, Parks and Recreation Director)
6. Approval of Subdivision Plats as Follows:Name of Development Action CommentsThe Shops at Windward Village Revise Property Lines between Tracts B & C RevisionThe Shops at Windward Village Revise Property Lines between Tracts A & D RevisionBraeburn Phase II Final Plat Creates 21 LotsBraeburn Phase III Final Plat Creates 31 LotsDeerfield Green Phase 2 Final Plat Creates 28 Lots (Agenda Item No. 11-017)
(Lynn Tully, Community Development Director) 6) REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS (None)
7) FIRST PRESENTATION (None)

8) PUBLIC HEARING (None)
9) ZONING AGENDA (None)
10) UNFINISHED BUSINESS (None)
11) NEW BUSINESS
1. Discussion on the Use of the Crapapple Streetscape TE Grant.
(Carter Lucas, Public Works Director)
12) MAYOR AND COUNCIL REPORTS
13) STAFF REPORTS
14) EXECUTIVE SESSION (None)
15) ADJOURNMENT (Agenda Item No. 11-018)

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Many Thanks To Those Who Serve.


Time To Laugh - Why Teachers Drink!

With all the frozen noses in Milton this time of year, we figured the following might bring some well needed laughs.

Many thanks to "Steel Magnolia" for sending this our way!




























UPDATED: Roads will refreeze overnight.

Latest update: The bitterly cold temperatures overnight mean all moisture on roadways will likely refreeze. Roads that were previously clear might be dangerous as snow melted by motorists and sunshine is likely to become ice.

In addition, efforts to sand iced areas are proving difficult because the particulate cannot attach itself to the surface of some frozen patches. Please continue to avoid travel, and if you must be extremely cautious.

Road conditions will continue to remain hazardous in spots until temperatures increase. Milton’s crews will resume work in the morning.

The City of Milton wants residents to know checking and fixing main thoroughfares are the aim of operations. Neighborhood streets, which are unsafe and will remain so until temperatures rise substantially, are addressed on a public safety basis. That is, they are treated if an emergency requiring police and fire occurs and their vehicles are not able to enter.

Stay up to date with road conditions with Milton's Nixle, Facebook or Twitter feeds.

Herman Cain Forms Presidential Exploratory Committee.

Business Executive to “Test Waters” for Potential White House Bid.

STOCKBRIDGE, GA- Business executive Herman Cain announced today that he has officially established a presidential exploratory committee, “Friends of Herman Cain,” to “test the waters” for a possible White House bid.

“After receiving overwhelming encouragement from supporters and donors across the U.S., I have decided to form a presidential exploratory committee,” Cain said. “During this time, we will examine the extent of financial resources and grassroots support that would be critical to winning the Republican nomination.”

Cain is best known for his role as President and CEO of Godfather’s Pizza, Inc., where he led the company from the brink of bankruptcy to profitability in just 14 months. He has also served as an executive of other Fortune 500 Companies, such as Pillsbury and Burger King.

He served as chairman of the Federal Reserve in Kansas City, as well as the President and CEO of the National Restaurant Association. Cain was a senior economic adviser to the Dole/ Kemp presidential campaign in 1996.

Cain hosts a nightly radio program, “The Herman Cain Show,” one of the highest-rated shows in the Atlanta media market. He is also a syndicated columnist.

“Friends of Herman Cain” is a registered non-profit in the state of Georgia, and the names of exploratory committee members will be released at a later date.

For more information, please visit the newly launched http://www.hermancain.com.