After a rough winter, spring is finally here.

Well folks, we made it through two snow storms – two, in Georgia – but as they say it is always darkest before the dawn. But here comes the sun, and with it, warmer temperatures and the blooming of spring.

With this wonderful change in the seasons I’m happy to report Milton is going full steam ahead with all sorts of great events, happenings and news throughout spring.

In this month’s newsletter, you’ll see information about our Firefighter of the Year, Richard Bushman (obviously he’s a fantastic firefighter, but if you get the chance to meet him it becomes abundantly clear why he was chosen as the best for 2013 – he’s humble and gracious and just a great guy) our annual report (make sure to take a look and relive the last year) and all sorts of community news from our schools and local non-profits.

You’ll also find articles on Milton Grows Green’s numerous events throughout March and April, including a shredding fundraiser with our local Boy Scouts, an Adopt-A-Stream workshop, another of our Bulky Trash Amnesty days, and of course the Earth Day.

I would also like you to take a look at the small article about Better Together’s new initiative to welcome residents to Milton. This is a tremendous undertaking that’s been in the works for some time now.

Basically, volunteers – all of whom live in Milton – will go to newly constructed homes with packets of information specific to Milton, including a Newcomer’s Guide and a letter explaining the many opportunities that await them in Milton. As time passes, we’re looking to expand the program and include all sorts of info about our schools, our businesses, you name it.

In total, the idea is to create the most welcoming and connected community in the state, if not the nation. Truth be told, that’s the goal of virtually everything we do here in Milton – finding new and interesting ways to connect residents to their government, their businesses and non-profits, and to each other.

Because that’s what makes a community great, and we feel that’s what we should always strive toward.

If you agree and would like to get involved in any of the projects you see in this newsletter monthly, go ahead and give us a ring at 678-242-2500 or e-mail us at info@cityofmiltonga.us. I’m always available, as well, both in my office by appointment and electronically.

Feel free to contact me anytime.

Sincerely, Mayor Joe Lockwood