Sen. John Albers Co-Sponsored Constitutional Amendment to Phase Out State Income Tax.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Jennifer Yarber, Interim Director Shawna Mercer, Sr. Communications Specialist Shawna.mercer@senate.ga.gov 404.656.0028

ATLANTA (January 17, 2013) – Sen. John Albers (R- Roswell) today co-sponsored Senate Resolution 8, a proposal that would create a constitutional amendment to phase out the Georgia State Income Tax.

“Eliminating the state income tax is the right thing to do for Georgia,” said Sen. Albers. “I am optimistic that my colleagues in both chambers will recognize the significance of eliminating Georgia’s income tax to support job creation and reduce the burden on our taxpayers.”

Many economists suggest that one of the most effective ways to promote job creation is to systematically eliminate the state income tax.

Currently, the Georgia income tax rate is 6 percent. Several states do not have an income tax including Florida, Tennessee, Texas, Wyoming, Washington, New Hampshire, Nevada and Alaska. Other states have the abolition of their state income tax under consideration, including North Carolina, Louisiana and Nebraska.

If approved by Georgia voters, Senate Resolution 8 would phase out the income tax completely by the year 2027. This process would be gradual, reducing the tax rate by .5 percent every year until the income tax is eliminated.

Amendments to the Georgia Constitution may be introduced in either the House of Representatives or the Senate. An amendment must be approved by a 2/3 majority of each legislative chamber in order for it to be placed on the ballot for voter approval. #### Sen. John Albers represents the 56th Senate District which includes portions of North Fulton County. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at john.albers@senate.ga.gov.

New Poll Up / Old Poll Results.

By Accessmilton.com

All:

We have a new poll up.

It asks:

"Do You Support The Proposed Milton Zoo?"

Have your say in the right margin today!

Here are the results of our most recent poll=>

Good Grief!

Courtesy abcnews.com

Voice Actor for Charlie Brown Arrested in Calif.

Authorities in California say the voice actor who portrayed Charlie Brown in many "Peanuts" shows was arrested on charges that include stalking.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection spokeswoman Angelica de Cima said Peter Robbins was arrested Sunday at the San Ysidro Port of Entry. She told U-T San Diego (http://bit.ly/USUNac) that a background check yielded a warrant against Robbins from the San Diego County sheriff's department.

A sheriff's spokeswoman said she did not have details about the warrant.

The 56-year-old is set to be arraigned Wednesday on counts of making a threat to cause death or great bodily injury and of stalking. His manager has declined to comment.

Robbins was the voice of Charlie Brown for TV specials, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" and "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown."

I Need My Crying Towel!

Courtesy 11alive.com

Long time car dealer Maxie Price dies

WXIA -- He was known for his slogans "Where's Loganville?" and "Hand Me a Crying Towel".

Maxie O. Price, Sr., died Sunday at the age of 77.

Price was from Snellville and was born on September 3, 1935 in Fairfax, Alabama.

He studied at Georgia State after graduating from Roosevelt High School (1953-54). He started and operated the family-owned Chevrolet business 30 years ago and Maxie Price Chevrolet is recognized today as one of the largest Chevrolet dealers in the country.

He was known for making funny commercials, selling anything, cheering the Atlanta Falcons (being an original season ticket holder in the mid 1960's), and traveling around the world.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 26, 2013, at 2:00 P.M. at Tom M. Wages Snellville Chapel with Rev. J. B. Reese, Jr. officiating.

‘Growing a Greener World’ tomorrow at City Hall.

Courtesy City of Milton

Don’t forget that Joe Lamp’l, executive producer and host of public television’s “Growing a Greener World,” will speak at Milton’s City Hall tomorrow, Thursday, Jan. 24.

The free meeting, sponsored by the City of Milton’s National Wildlife Federation (NWF) Community Wildlife Habitat Certification Project, will take place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers of Milton’s City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 (click here for directions, click here for a map of city hall).

If you attend, please bring old usable shoes to recycle for the NWF project.

Lamp’l will discuss weedless gardening, planting to accommodate drought and landscaping to discourage undesirable wildlife. There will be an opportunity for questions from the audience.

For more information on this meeting, contact Environmental Sustainability Coordinator Cindy Eade at cindy.eade@cityofmiltonga.us or 678-242-2509. For more information on the NWF project, click here.

Emergency Manager published for Milton’s partnerships.

Courtesy City of Milton

City of Milton Emergency Manager and Fire Marshal Matthew Marietta, Ph.D., can now add another accomplishment to his impressive credentials – published author of a thought-provoking paper detailing Milton’s money-saving, non-traditional and groundbreaking government model.

“Flexibility in Local Government: Using Non-traditional Strategies for Financial Stability,” a presentation Marietta and City Manager Chris Lagerbloom gave at the International City/County Management Association’s (ICMA) 98th annual conference in Phoenix last October, is now an “InFocus” publication available through the professional group’s online bookstore.

As such, it is available to thought leaders across American and Canadian government, and will be used to improve municipal services in communities across the country.

To purchase the document, click here. For ICMA members, it is $19.95. For non-members, it is $24.95.

“It is one thing to build this model and find success at home,” said Lagerbloom. “It is another thing entirely for Matt to streamline it into a guide for one way to be fiscally responsible in today’s environment.”

The report outlines Milton’s non-traditional service delivery model and how it allows the city to reduce costs by contracting services from private companies. Marietta also delves into the types of community connections needed to establish such a successful hybrid and the economic, social and political factors that influenced its genesis.

Words & Definitions.

Courtesy dictionary.com

rural

/ˈrʊər əl/ Show Spelled [roo r-uh l] Show IPA adjective

1. of, pertaining to, or characteristic of the country, country life, or country people; rustic: rural tranquillity.

2. living in the country: the rural population.

3. of or pertaining to agriculture: rural economy.

noun

4. a person who lives in a rural area. ----------------------------

agriculture

  ag·ri·cul·ture /ˈæg rɪˌkʌl tʃər/ Show Spelled [ag-ri-kuhl-cher] Show IPA noun

1. the science, art, or occupation concerned with cultivating land, raising crops, and feeding, breeding, and raising livestock; farming.

2. the production of crops, livestock, or poultry. -------------------

livestock

live·stock /ˈlaɪvˌstɒk/ Show Spelled [lahyv-stok] Show IPA noun, ( used with a singular or plural verb )

the horses, cattle, sheep, and other useful animals kept or raised on a farm or ranch. ------------------------

freedom

/ˈfri dəm/ Show Spelled [free-duh m] Show IPA noun

1. the state of being free or at liberty rather than in confinement or under physical restraint: He won his freedom after a retrial.

2. exemption from external control, interference, regulation, etc.

3. the power to determine action without restraint.

4. political or national independence.

5. personal liberty, as opposed to bondage or slavery: a slave who bought his freedom.

Help Monkeys In Milton GA!

Courtey Peta.org

This coming Tuesday, January 22, the Milton Planning Commission (MPC) will consider whether to recommend that the City Council grant a permit to Dean Riopelle that would allow him to keep wild animals in Milton, Ga. Riopelle has capuchin monkeys, spider monkeys, and DeBrazza's monkeys on his property, among other animals. Riopelle is now looking to acquire even more wild animals and open a roadside zoo, disregarding both public safety and the animals' well-being. We need your help to make sure that the MPC makes the correct decision and recommends that the City Council deny Riopelle's permit to keep any exotic animals in Milton!

Primates such as those residing on Riopelle's property in Milton—present serious public safety and health risks because they can become aggressive and transmit various diseases to humans. Capuchin monkeys, for instance, become dangerous and destructive when they reach sexual maturity, sometimes turning on humans. For example, in 2010, Babe Hamerick of Chesapeake, Virginia, was attacked by a capuchin monkey named Noah. Hamerick described the attack as worse than war, which he claimed was "a breeze compared to my little fight with [Noah, which] cut the vein, tore ligaments out of my wrists. I'm pumping blood all over." Within two weeks, Noah attacked Hamerick a second time, biting Hamerick's left hand and severing his pinky finger.

Please send a polite e-mail and/or call Robyn MacDonald, the staff contact of the MPC (robyn.macdonald@cityofmiltonga.us; 678-242-2540) and let her know that the MPC must recommend that the City Council deny Riopelle's permit for the sake of public safety and animal welfare. If you are a citizen of Milton, please be sure to indicate that in your correspondence.

Please feel free to use the sample e-mail at the end of this message, but remember that using your own words is always more effective.

You can also attend the MPC meeting and voice your support for the denial of Riopelle's permit during the public comment period. The MPC meeting is being held at 7 p.m. on January 22 at the following location:

City Council Chambers Milton City Hall 13000 Deerfield Pkwy., Ste. E Milton, GA 30004

Please pass this important, time-sensitive information on to your family and friends in Milton.

Thank you for your help and continued support of our efforts to protect animals!

Sincerely,

Delcianna Winders Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement PETA Foundation

Sample Note

Dear Commission Members,

I strongly urge you to recommend that Dean Riopelle's application for a permit to keep exotic animals on his property be denied. Not only does Milton house dangerous animals on his property now, he also apparently plans to acquire even more, in complete disregard of public safety.

Primates—such as those residing on Riopelle's property in Milton—present serious public safety and health risks because they can both become aggressive and transmit various diseases to humans. Capuchin monkeys, for example, can turn on humans when they reach sexual maturity and cause serious injuries. In fact, one capuchin monkey bit one of his keeper's fingers off, and another bit the thumb of a woman in Georgia, who had to receive care from a hand specialist for her injuries.

Please protect the safety of Milton residents by recommending the denial of Riopelle's application.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This e-mail was sent by PETA, 501 Front St., Norfolk, VA 23510 USA.

Road To Safety Video Competition

What: Road To Safety Video Competition Awards Event *Students who entered, must be present to win! When: Thursday, January 31, 6 pm Where: Johns Creek High School Auditorium

All North Fulton High School Students are invited and encouraged to attend to support your school!

Participating High Schools: Alpharetta, Centennial, Chattahoochee, Cambridge, Northview, Milton, Johns Creek, Roswell

Road To Safety is a non-profit program. The program challenges high school students to compete by creating a 2 minute Video on the dangers teens face as new and inexperienced drivers. Cash Scholarships to the top three winning Videos!

Guest Emcee: KICKS 101.5 FM Morning Show Host, Cadillac Jack Guest Speaker: Bill Richardson, “Teen Victim Impact Program”/”It Can’t Happen To Me"

Support The Road To Safety Program. Find out more here.

Sen. Albers to Host Town Hall Meeting at Roswell United Methodist Church.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact:

Jennifer Yarber, Interim Director Shawna Mercer, Sr. Communications Specialist Shawna.Mercer@senate.ga.gov 404.656.0028

ATLANTA (January 14, 2013) – Sen. John Albers (R-Roswell) will host a Town Hall meeting on Saturday, January 19, 2013 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Roswell United Methodist Church. During the meeting, Sen. Albers will discuss legislative updates and priorities for the 2013 Legislative Session.

All citizens are invited to attend and discuss solutions to make Georgia a better place to live, work and raise a family.

Additional information can be found at: www.senatoralbers.com.

WHEN: Saturday, January 19, 2013 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: Roswell United Methodist Church, Chapel 814 Mimosa Boulevard Roswell, GA 30075

# # # # Sen. John Albers represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of North Fulton County. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at john.albers@senate.ga.gov.

Parents upset over popular Milton educator's resignation.

Courtesy Wsbtv.com

Dozens of parents gave Fulton County school leaders an earful Tuesday morning about the sudden resignation of a beloved vice principal at Hopewell Middle School in Milton.

Despite the concerns, the veteran educator won't get his job back.

Channel 2’s Mike Petchenik was there as parents showed up to a meeting at the school library to voice their concerns about vice principal Joey Robinson’s departure. Parents believe it was premature.

"To my knowledge, all the parents who are here, they don't know what's going on," one parent said.

Many said they felt blindsided, but school board member Katie Reeves told parents Robinson resigned, end of story.

"You're not going to get any details about one of our employee’s employment. I know that's frustrating. I know it is. You can be mad at me from here to the end of time, but we're not going to do that," she said.

Meanwhile, outside the meeting, Robinson told Petchenik the school system forced him to resign or be fired without explanation.

"I was out for doing what was right for my students," Robinson said.

Robinson said he was touched by the support he’s received and a petition to block his resignation, but Reeves said the school board won’t accept it.

"From the bottom of my heart, from my family and the support you've shown over the years, I'm truly thankful for that," Robinson said.

Cogburn Woods Educational Foundation To Host First Annual Auction.

Cogburn Woods Educational Foundation, Inc. board members Kim Wildstein, Dana Havlicek and Melissa Holman, previewed select auction items and highlights of the upcoming Chinese New Year Auction and Gala fundraiser at the Crooked Creek tennis facility.

PRESS RELEASE

IMMEDIATE: Information contact: Jeannine Jannot: C: 770-827-8666, jeannine@pattillotrade.com

Milton, Georgia - January 14, 2013 Cogburn Woods Educational Foundation, Inc. will host its First Annual “Chinese New Year Auction” fundraising gala on Friday, February 22, 2013. Proceeds will be used to enhance technology in Cogburn Woods Elementary School classrooms. The event will start at 6:30 pm at The Metropolitan Club, 5895 Windward Parkway in Alpharetta, and is open to the public.

Admission is $65 per person if paid before February 1, and $75 per person after February 1. Included in the admission price are a cocktail reception and silent auction, followed by dinner and the Chinese New Year Auction. The evening closes with a short live auction featuring sports memorabilia including an autographed 2011 World Series baseball, autographed football from Alabama coach Nick Saban, and a signed football from UGA coach Mark Richt. Cogburn Woods Educational Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose purpose is to advance the education of all Cogburn Woods Elementary students by providing financial resources to enhance technology, facilities and curriculum programs. Cogburn Woods Elementary School, which opened in 2004, is part of the Fulton County school system. The school is located at 13080 Cogburn Road in Milton, Georgia and serves students from Alpharetta and Milton. With over 900 students, Cogburn Woods is the largest elementary school in the City of Milton. For more information about Cogburn Woods Elementary School, visit the school’s website at www.fultonschools.org/school/cogburn. For reservations and information contact Dana Havlicek, 404-202-5935, info@cwefoundation.org or visit www.cwefoundation.org for further details.

City Responds To Logo Change.

By Accessmilton.com

City Communications Manager Jason Wright was kind enough to respond to our inquiry about the logo change.

"It’s part of a larger branding initiative requested by City Council, as prescribed in the 2012-2015 Strategic Plan (specifically, portions of the Build Relationships, Structure Economic Growth and Provide Responsible and Responsive Government strategies)" shared Mr. Wright.

He went on to relay that council has been working on the change off and on over months of open discussion in work sessions.

In regards to costs, he states "It's a soft launch to minimize cost over time" and that the actual design was "no cost...all work was done in house. " Finally, it was confirmed that the font was meant to "invoke a fence (our signature architectural item) without being too overt. "

So what do you think? Was this change needed? If so, was it wise to spend these monies at this time? Is it important that the city still include a horse as part of it's brand? Have your say in the comments section below.

A Change In the Dark Of Night?

New?

Old?

By Accessmilton.com

Did the City of Milton Georgia make a change in the dark of night?

Some residents notified Accessmilton.com of a recent and under the radar change; the city’s logo.

The city has not released an official statement of this assumed change nor has any local press covered the topic.

What was once a logo that was very similar to Accessmilton.com’s logo has now been replaced with a totally different horse.

The Milton Herald, the City's official news paper, actually covered the controversial story a while back.

If this is a permanent change, citizens have to wonder what additional costs tax payers will endure. Considering the original logo is on everything from police and fire vehicles, to road adoption and city park signs, to official city media, the price tag could be substantial.

We have email the Communications Director; Jason Wright, asking him to confirm if the change is official as well as the expected cost to the project.

Monday, January 7, 2013 Regular Council Meeting Agenda 6:00 PM

CITY OF MILTON, GEORGIA Joe Lockwood, Mayor CITY COUNCIL Karen Thurman Matt Kunz Bill Lusk Burt Hewitt Joe Longoria Lance Large

INVOCATION - Pastor Jeff Kane with C3 Church, Milton, Georgia

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. 13-001)

4) PUBLIC COMMENT

5) CONSENT AGENDA

1. Approval of the December 17, 2012 Regular Council Minutes. (Agenda Item No. 13-002) (Sudie Gordon, City Clerk)

2. Approval of the Financial Statements for the Period Ending November, 2012. (Agenda Item No. 13-003) (Stacey Inglis, Assistant City Manager)

3. Approval of the Acquisition of 3757.91 SF of Permanent Construction and Maintenance Easement and 2420.29 SF of Temporary Construction Easement at 13795 Birmingham Highway from Margaret E. Dimsdale for a Total Combined Purchase Price of $10,000. (Agenda Item No. 13-004) (Carter Lucas, Public Works Director)

4. Approval of the Acquisition of 7,314.85 SF of Permanent Construction and Maintenance Easement at 14013 Triple Crown Drive from Otis H. & Grace M. Melton for a Total Combined Purchase Price of $20,832. (Agenda Item No. 13-005) (Carter Lucas, Public Works Director)

5. Approval of the Acquisition of 530+ Lineal Feet of Fencing Located at 120, 130, and 135 Providence Oaks Pointe from Providence at Atlanta National Community Association, Inc. for a Total Purchase Price of $10,500. (Agenda Item No. 13-006 (Carter Lucas, Public Works Director)

6. Approval of the Acquisition of 754.81 SF of Temporary Construction Easement at Birmingham Highway from B. Anne & Royal D. Peterson for a Total Combined Purchase Price of $2,985. (Agenda Item No. 13-007) (Carter Lucas, Public Works Director)

6) REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS

1. Presentation of ARC’s Green Community Award to the City of Milton. (Cindy Eade, Sustainability Coordinator & Michele McIntosh-Ross, Principal Planner)

7) FIRST PRESENTATION

1. Consideration of RZ12-16/VC12-06 - 12855 Hopewell Road, Beazer Homes, to rezone from AG-1 (Agricultural) to NUP (Neighborhood Unit Plan) to develop 29 single family homes at a density of 4.18 units per acre. A 2 part concurrent variance, 1) Reduce the periphery setback from 40 feet to 25 feet along the east and north property lines and 7 feet along the south property line (Sec 64-921(i)). 2) To allow sidewalks along only one side of the street on the interior of the development (Sec 64-2393). (Agenda Item No. 13-008) (Kathleen Field, Community Development Director)

8) PUBLIC HEARINGS (None)

9) ZONING AGENDA (None)

10) UNFINISHED BUSINESS (None)

11) NEW BUSINESS

1. Consideration of a Resolution to Amend the Personnel Policy of the City of Milton. (Agenda Item No. 13-009) (Sam Trager, Director of Human Resources)

2. Consideration of a Resolution to Adopt a City of Milton Logo. (Agenda Item No. 13-010) (Jason Wright, Communications Manager)

3. Consideration of a Resolution Electing Absent Municipality Status Regarding All Future LOST Proceedings Related to and Triggered by the 2010 Census. (Agenda Item No. 12-328) (Deferred at December 3, 2012 Regular Council Meeting) (Deferred at December 17, 2012 Regular Council Meeting) (Chris Lagerbloom, City Manager)

4. Consideration of a Resolution Authorizing its Attorney to Exercise the City of Milton, Georgia’s Powers of Eminent Domain in the Acquisition of Certain Interests in Property (Parcel No. 4) Situated in the City of Milton, Georgia and in Fulton County, Georgia, for Public Road and/or Other Public Transportation Purposes. (Agenda Item No. 13-011) (Carter Lucas, Public Works Director)

5. Consideration of a Resolution Authorizing its Attorney to Exercise the City of Milton, Georgia’s Powers of Eminent Domain in the Acquisition of Certain Interests in Property (Parcel No. 6) Situated in the City of Milton, Georgia and in Fulton County, Georgia, for Public Road and/or Other Public Transportation Purposes. (Agenda Item No. 13-012) (Carter Lucas, Public Works Director)

12) MAYOR AND COUNCIL REPORTS

13) STAFF REPORTS

14) EXECUTIVE SESSION (if needed)

15) ADJOURNMENT (Agenda Item No. 13-013)

A Milton Man is crusading for a tougher horse protection ordinance.

Courtesy Mike Petchenik; wsbtv.com

A Milton Man is crusading for a tougher horse protection ordinance. Channel 2's Mike Petchenik finds out why the city isn't moving forward with his plan.

Click here to find out more about Liberty's Law.

November 2013 local election information

Ever thought about running for elected office? In accordance with state law, the City of Milton is now hosting a wealth of information regarding the November 5, 2013 Municipal General Election for Mayor and Council districts 1, 3 and 5.

Qualifying for the seats will take place August 26 through 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Milton’s City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway Suite 107 A.

The qualifying fee for candidacy is as follows:

•Mayor: $690 •City Council: $390

For full information about the November election, click here.

What to expect in 2013? Too much to fit in one letter.

Here we are; another year has passed. Milton has been able to accomplish so much it almost seems impossible we were able to fit everything into 365 days. I know I’ll be saying the same thing next year, but any time you can expand your parks and recreation offerings (and save residents a lot of money while doing so), build a new park, complete your first road project and win multiple awards for environmental efforts and financial excellence, it’s been a good year.

But we’re not here to talk about last year. We’re here to look into the next. And guess what? You’ll see more of the same fiscally responsible expansion of services and infrastructure.

Here’s a very quick list of what to expect in 2013:

1.Construction of intersection improvements at Ga. 140 (Arnold Mill Road) at New Providence Road and Ga. 372 at both Providence and New Providence roads. After years of planning, this year you’ll see the City of Milton begin work on these much needed infrastructure projects.

2.Prioritized funding for a number of public projects, including design and construction of a police, fire and court building on Ga. 9, a Bell Memorial Park redesign and a Deerfield Parkway park space design. This year we’ll narrow down the project list and move money where it needs to be to responsibly get these projects off the ground.

3.Deployment of a severe weather/emergency siren system throughout the city. The fire department will take a multi-phased approach to this project, with improvements coming after attainment of a baseline of service.

4.Continued work on the Crabapple village concept, including working with Fulton County to build the library and instituting our form-based code principles for new construction. We’ve got the pieces in place to build a complete downtown area for the City of Milton, and this year you’ll see us begin to create the space residents want to see.

5.Full implementation of the City of Milton/Alpharetta Parks and Recreation parks partnership. The partnership might have kicked off Dec. 1, but throughout 2013 you’ll see your prices drop for all recreation programs utilized by both Milton and Alpharetta residents outside their home cities.

6.City Council meetings going paperless. For a fraction of the printing cost per meeting, we’ve been able to give each City Council member an iPad. This means not only paper and ink savings, but a fairly substantial environmental impact, as well.

This is but a fraction of the work we’ll complete in 2013. If you have any questions about what’s happening in City Hall give me a call or come by.

Sincerely, Mayor Joe Lockwood

Milton, Fulton Schools have emergency plan in place.

Courtesy City of Milton

Mayor Joe Lockwood met this week in December with Fulton County Schools Superintendent Robert M. Avossa, Ed.D, and discussed plans of action involving Fulton Schools and Milton police in the wake of the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut.

"I'd had a number of neighbors and friends simply ask about what type of plans the schools and Milton have in place should the unthinkable happen here," said Lockwood. "We're very lucky, because Dr. Avossa is a Milton resident and a great community leader, so he, as always, was ready to talk about what exists and what can be done in our city."

Lockwood said he is comfortable with the security and response protocols already in place at all Milton schools and has pledged a partnership with Fulton Schools Police to further monitor and provide response to all situations arising on school campuses.

"It's reasonable to desire increased security at every school" said Avossa in a recently published editorial. "But we must find a balance between providing stronger security measures and keeping the school an engaging place that is conducive to learning and teaching."

Fulton County Schools has an internal police force with 65 officers specially trained to work with students and serve their unique needs. Each school also has a regularly practiced safety plan, which includes locking exterior doors and requiring visitors to sign in upon arrival and exit. Additionally, staff conducts safety drills throughout the year.

All of these measures have been in place before the tragedy at Sandy Hook, said Avossa, and will continue to be in place moving forward.

For more information on the many ways the City of Milton and its police and fire departments routinely work with their community partners, including Fulton County Schools, visit the city's Web site at www.cityofmiltonga.us

'Bring One For The Chipper' set for Jan. 5.

Courtesy City of Milton

Get those lights off and stock up on tie downs, because Saturday, Jan. 5 the City of Milton and Milton Grows Green (MGG) will once again offer Christmas tree recycling as part of Georgia's "Bring One For The Chipper" program.

This year residents may take Christmas trees to multiple locations: Milton High School's Freemanville Road entrance, (click here for directions to the school, located at 13025 Birmingham Highway) and Scottsdale Farms, (click here for directions to the business, located at 15639 Birmingham Highway). Scottsdale Farms, as well as area Home Depot locations, will offer extended drop off Dec. 26 through Jan. 5.

Tree seedlings will be handed out Jan. 5 to residents as quantities last and are donated by the Rotary Club of Alpharetta.

Volunteers from the Milton Chapter of the Young Men's Service League and the Alpharetta Rotary Club will offer assisted drop-off from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 5. Tree chipping services provided by Casey Tree Experts.

Additionally, Milton Boy Scout Troop 841 will pick up trees and recycle them for a donation of $10. To schedule a pick-up, e-mail treepickup841@yahoo.com.

For more information about the chipper event, to get free mulch delivered, or to volunteer, please contact mgg@cityofmiltonga.us.

Jan. 8 special election information.

By Accessmilton.com

There will be a special election on Jan. 8 for the State Senate District 21 seat following Sen. Chip Rogers' resignation in December.

Only eligible voters within State Senate District 21 are qualified to vote.

The City of Milton's Web site is now hosting a list of eligible voting precincts, the advance polling location and a sample ballot for voters.

For more information, click here.

Grants available for Evergreen School members.

Courtesy City of Milton

Grants of up to $250 are now available for Milton public and private schools looking to help fund environmental education programs. Applicants must be current members of the Milton Evergreen School Program for 2012-2013.

Principals, PTA officers, teachers, club sponsors and school volunteers are encouraged to submit project applications. Projects are encouraged, but not required, to focus on solid waste reduction and water conservation education that will benefit a large number of students in each school selected. Projects related to issues such as recycling, or education about storm water awareness and non-point source pollution are strongly encouraged.

Grant applications are due no later than Jan. 18, 2013. If awarded, funds must be used for projects to be completed by Sept. 30, 2013. The determination of the award to a school will be based on the project's focus and educational value, the number of students affected and the number of total grant applications received. There is a maximum of one grant award per school.

This project is jointly administered by Milton Grows Green and the City of Milton. Applications should be mailed, e-mailed or faxed to:

Cindy Eade Sustainability Coordinator, City of Milton 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107A Milton GA 30004 cindy.eade@cityofmiltonga.us 678.242.2509 (o), 678.242.2499 (f)

Notification of awards will be made the week of Jan. 28, 2013.

To download the grant application, click here.

'Growing a Greener World' Jan. 24 at City Hall.

By Accessmilton.com

Joe Lamp'l, executive producer and host of public television's "Growing a Greener World," will speak at Milton's City Hall Thursday, Jan. 24.

The free meeting, sponsored by the City of Milton's National Wildlife Federation (NWF) Community Wildlife Habitat Certification Project, will take place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers of Milton's City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 (click here for directions, click here for a map of city hall).

If you attend, please bring old usable shoes to recycle for the NWF project.

"We're thrilled to have Mr. Lamp'l here in Milton to discuss the cutting edge of green growing techniques," said Cindy Eade, Milton sustainability coordinator. "It should be a fun and informative evening."

Eade said Lamp'l will discuss weedless gardening, planting to accommodate drought and landscaping to discourage undesirable wildlife. There will be an opportunity for questions from the audience.

For more information on this meeting, contact Eade at cindy.eade@cityofmiltonga.us or 678-242-2509. For more information on the NWF project, click here.

TDR workshop Jan. 29.

Courtesy City of Milton

The City of Milton Community Development Department will hold a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) workshop Tuesday, Jan. 29 beginning at 5 p.m.

The meeting will take place in Council Chambers of Milton's City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 (click here for directions, click here for a map of City Hall).

The purpose of this meeting is to educate the equestrian community and land owners of more than five acres about the TDR options available to Milton residents.

The TDR program allows a landowner to transfer the rights to development from his parcel to increase the development rights on a different parcel of land. In effect, TDRs protect large swaths of land from future development while guiding smart growth and density in areas defined by the community. An award-winning TDR ordinance is already in place in Crabapple (click here for more information), and another is proposed for the city's main commercial corridor on Ga. 9 and Deerfield Parkway (click here for more information).

The department will have both a TDR expert and the city attorney on hand to discuss the details and process of submitting properties to the city for consideration of TDR status.

For more information on this project, contact Milton planner Michele McIntosh-Ross at 678-242-2538 or michele.mcintosh@cityofmiltonga.us.

Milton volunteer honored for service.

Sharon Lockwod, left, with Carrie Bellware, executive director of Senior Services North Fulton.

Courtesy City of Milton

Milton volunteer Sharon Lockwood, a founding member of the Better Together: Real Communities - Milton Mini-Grants Initiative and former member of the Milton Disability Awareness Committee (MDAC), will be honored by Senior Services North Fulton (SSNF) Feb. 16 at the nonprofit's "Heart and Soul" yearly fundraiser.

"Sharon is a passionate advocate for seniors and individuals with disabilities," said Carrie Bellware, executive director of SSNF. "It is a pleasure to honor such a special woman and North Fulton resident."

If the name sounds familiar, it's because Sharon is the mother of Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood. He said he couldn't be more proud of her work.

"She is an inspiration to everyone who meets her, and she just keeps on going, always with a smile," he said.

The fundraiser will be held at the Atlanta Athletic Club in Johns Creek. Event attendees will be treated to a champagne reception, formal dinner and dancing to the live music of "Platinum."

Individual admission is $100. A reserved table for 10 guests is $950. To make reservations call 770-993-1906 or go online at www.ssnorthfulton.org.

For more information, contact Bellware at 770-993-1906 or cbellware@ssnorthfulton.org.

Milton to host hazardous waste event March 2

By Accessmilton.com

Details are being worked out for Milton's first ever household hazardous waste event.

The date will be Saturday, March 2.

Stay tuned for information and to pre-register for the event.

Save the Date: Milton Earth Day April 20.

By Accessmilton.com

The fourth annual Milton Earth Day festival will have a new location this year, right in the heart of Crabapple at the new Friendship Community Park!

It will be a great event highlighting environmental businesses and education.

We want to showcase local schools and their environmental efforts and reach out to community businesses that have an environmental theme to participate in this huge spring event.

For more information, contact Cindy Eade, sustainability coordinator, at cindy.eade@cityofmiltonga.us.

Firefighters assessing physical agility.

Courtesy Milton Fire Department

Firefighters with the City of Milton Fire-Rescue Department will be undergoing yearly physical agility assessments in January.

Each firefighter will have 12 minutes and 30 seconds to perform the following tests while wearing a helmet, air pack and gloves:

Stair climb Dry hose advance Equipment carry/forced entry Victim rescue Ladder carry and mount Charged hose advance Hydraulic tool carry Ventilation simulator Hose roll

For more information on the City of Milton Fire-Rescue Department, click here.

Winter programs and spring sports now registering.

Courtesy City of Milton

SAR names Roth Hutcheson 'Firefighter of the Year'

Courtesy Milton Fire Department

The Sons of the American Revolution, Piedmont Chapter (SAR), recently named Milton Battalion Chief Roth Hutcheson Firefighter of the Year.

The reason is simple and profound: This year, Hutcheson and his wife, Michelle, invited into their lives twin infant boys and an 18-month-old girl, saving them from separation in foster care. The children join Hutcheson's two biological boys.

"I think Battalion Chief Roth Hutcheson is an outstanding representative of the type of person we like to honor, not only in the fire department, but in our community," said Alan Greenly, chairman of the police, fire and EMS committee for the Piedmont Chapter of SAR. "You simply can't ask for anybody better than that."

Hutcheson said his family never fostered before, but knew they had to do something when Michelle, a counselor with Coweta County Schools, learned the children were being placed in state-funded care.

"We were looking to keep the kids from being separated and provide them with a safe home while their mother re-established herself," said Hutcheson. "It's busy, it's non-stop, but we're taking it day-by-day."

Each year the Piedmont Chapter of SAR asks local fire and police departments to pick worthy nominees. Milton Fire Chief Robert Edgar said while firefighters are dedicated, compassionate men and women who put the needs of others before their own, "Roth Hutcheson and his family have taken this dedication to a new level."

"They have put the welfare and necessities of three young children above their own," he said. "This act of kindness is another clear example of Roth's great character, integrity and commitment to care for others." The designation caps a big year for Hutcheson, a 17-year firefighter. He was also named the City of Milton Fire-Rescue Department's first Firefighter of the Year at the department's awards ceremony in January.

Hutcheson has been with the City of Milton since the Fire Department launched in May 2007. He was named Battalion Chief in November 2011 after serving almost four as a lieutenant. Amazingly, in six years, Hutcheson has never missed a day of work.

For more information on the City of Milton Fire Rescue Department, click here.

Businesses recognize value of NWF certification.

By Accessmilton.com

Several Milton businesses have certified their properties as National Wildlife Federation (NWF) Habitats as part of the city's program to become a Community Wildlife Habitat.

Little River Animal Hospital and Milton Fields have joined the NWF project to certify their properties can support wildlife with water, food, cover, places to raise offspring.

"This all contributes to Milton's great quality of life and maintains our rural appeal," said Jim Bell, owner of Milton Fields, a green cemetery. "It is an easy thing to do for nature and the community, and I am happy to be a part of the project."

Most all of Milton's schools are certified as NWF habitats and approximately 90 residents have certified their properties.

"We only need about 60 more residents to simply go online, check off the wildlife characteristics they have in their yards and make a $20 donation to NWF. After that, their names are automatically added to our Milton Community Habitat list," said Francia Lindon, co-leader of the volunteer NWF group.

The City of Milton has also certified two of its own properties, Fire Station No. 42 on Thompson Road and 200-acre Birmingham Park, which is open for hikes and picnics.

Help Milton receive the Community Wildlife Habitat distinction by going online to http://www.nwf.org/How-to-Help/Garden-for-Wildlife.aspx and click on "start here to certify your property."

You may also participate in our Shoe Box recycling drive by hosting a collection box at your church, workplace or school, or by bringing shoes for recycling to entrance 107F at City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway.

For more information, contact Cindy Eade, sustainability coordinator, at cindy.eade@cityofmiltonga.us.

Pack 3000 helps city with storm water requirements.

Courtesy City of Milton

Recently, Den Leader Jennifer Bechtel, a Milton resident and leader of a fourth grade den of Webelos in Pack 3000 (chartered out of Birmingham UMC), asked the city for ideas on a conservation project to complete a badge requirement.

The pack decided that marking storm drains with "No dumping" stickers would be an educational and fun project. The scouts enjoyed helping out and learning from the project.

Thanks to the scouts, about 50 storm drains were marked - and the boys also picked up litter and handed out educational literature about pollution.

If you would like to know more about water pollution and how to prevent it, please contact Sustainability Coordinator Cindy Eade at cindyeade@cityofmiltonga.us for more information.

Business license renewals update.

Due to state law concerning the Illegal Immigration Reform and Enforcement Act passed by the Georgia General Assembly last year, 2013 business license renewal forms cannot be mailed back to the City of Milton.

Instead, if you renew your business license for 2013, you must e-mail the forms to bl@cityofmiltonga.us or hand-deliver them to City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway Suite 107 Suite F (click here for directions, click here for a map of City Hall).

Additionally, all applicants must submit Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) affidavits along with identification such as a driver's license, passport or legal immigration document. Businesses will receive the E-verify affidavit, SAVE affidavit and credit card authorizations forms in the mail along with instructions on how to file these documents.

These documents are being mailed in early December, said Kathleen Field, Community Development Director for the City of Milton. However, if you are a business owner you may begin the process immediately by downloading the forms below.

New Business License Courtesy City of Milton

Business License Renewal

Private Employer Affidavit - (E-verify for business over 11 employees)

Private Employer Exemption Affadavit- (E-Verify for businesses with 11 employees or fewer)

Affidavit of Presence in the United States

Credit Card Authorization Form

All forms and payments are due by March 31, 2013.

For more information, contact Jamila Jones, permit technician, at jamila.jones@cityofmiltonga.us or 678-242-2521.

School art program seeks donors.

Courtesy City of Milton

Monfort's Education Fund for Youth Art, a non-profit organization dedicated to building creative opportunities for all ages, is seeking donors for its recently launched "Art and Creative Club" after-school program.

Donors are needed to help fund a series of "student scholarships" for the program, which was recently piloted at Milton's Northwestern Middle School. In the pilot program a mural project was installed on a wall in Northwestern's sustainable garden. Classes were taught by Maureen Engle, a professional artist and painter with over 25 years of experience.

The project was inspired by Dr. John Bartlett, a science teacher at NMS who created the outdoor Permaculture classroom where the mural was installed.

The proposed 12-week program will meet once a week for 90 minutes. The plan is to move the program into each Milton school.

Cost is $250 per student. That cost covers research, development, instructor recruitment, concept development, instructor pay and basic supplies. All donations are tax deductible.

For more information, contact Dr. Ray Hoyum, Chairman and CEO of Monfort's Education Fund for Youth Art at 847-867-5146 or ray@monfortsfineart.com.

Monthly new business report.

Mayor Pro Tem Bill Lusk, center right, and Councilwoman Karen Thurman, to his right, join the owners and staff of Party Plaza on Ga. 9 at the store's grand opening Nov. 28.

This list is compiled from business license records kept by the city's Community Development Department. If a new business receives a license within the month proceeding the newsletter, it will be listed.

The appearance of a business on this page is not intended, nor should it be construed, as the City of Milton's or Milton City Council's endorsement, sanction, promotion or advertisement of any particular business. Identification of businesses on this list is for informational purposes only. Citizens interested in retaining or conducting business with any of the companies or agencies listed in this item should conduct their own review and investigation of that business.

Smith & Kennedy LLC: 13345 New Providence Road

Ashcraft, Opperman & Associates, LLC: 1315 Summit Road

Dale J. Jackson P.C. at the Windward Law Group, Inc.: 12600 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 125

For a continually updated list of current businesses in Milton via the city's Web site, click here.

Horse Shot, Killed In Owner's Backyard.

AM NOTE: Help protect horses from abuse and harassment. Support Liberty's Law!

Courtesy wsbtv.com

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. —

A Gwinnett County woman is heartbroken and angry after someone shot and killed her horse.Mary Lynn Whiten believes a neighbor is responsible for her horse’s death. The horse was found dead in her backyard on Kilgore Road in Buford.

She is offering a $500 reward for information in the shooting death of her quarter horse.

It’s painful for Whiten to open up her gate because inside the fenced yard lies Matias, her 8-year-old horse that was shot and killed.

“Yesterday, I heard the dogs barking. I came out on the deck and I heard the guy shoot the gun,” said Whiten. “I brought towels down trying to cut her bleeding back but she was dead.”

Whiten believes the bullet came from a neighbor’s gun. She said he target practices in the back wooded area often and Whiten told Channel 2 she has told him not to shoot so close to her 5-acre property.

"The Mall of Georgia is right over there. We're surrounded by all these people and houses, and they shot my horse,” said Whiten. “I could have been up there at the water tub, right around the area where she was shot. They could have shot me."

Gwinnett County Police spokeswoman Corporal Illana Spellman says the shooter could face animal cruelty charges.

Whiten has raised horses for more than 30 years. But after the shooting, she says she doesn't know whether she will try to replace the horse. And she says she's beginning to wonder whether she needs a bulletproof vest to work around her property.

She fears for the safety of her family, her goats, her dogs and one remaining horse, Hudson.

"My horse is dead because somebody shot her...I can't believe this,” she said.

The neighbor Whiten believe shot her horse was not home for comment. The case is being investigated by Gwinnett County police.

Milton Zoo?

Courtesy wsbtv.com

Finance Department honored for fourth straight year.

Courtesy City Of Milton

The City of Milton and its Finance Department have again been recognized for excellence, this time in producing the Fiscal Year 2011 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR).

For the fourth year in a row, the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has awarded the City of Milton the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. It is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, said the Chicago-based GFOA.

In addition, the city’s Finance Department again received an award recognizing Financial Reporting Achievement. This award is given to the department or agency designated by the honored government as primarily responsible for preparing the award-winning CAFR.

To view the award-winning 2011 CAFR, click here.

Attainment of both awards represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management, and the fact that Milton has been recognized for the last four years highlights the tremendous amount of work and care that goes both into the CAFR and the city’s financial reporting every day.

“These documents, which provide valuable insight into how the City of Milton uses taxpayer dollars responsibly and frugally, are of utmost importance to our residents and business owners concerned with how their government is being run,” said Stacey Inglis, Assistant City Manager.

Inglis said producing the CAFR – which includes a yearly extensive audit, exhaustive research of historical data and numerous detailed written documents – was a months-long process involving every city department. Next year’s document is already being prepared.

“We invite all of our citizens to explore the CAFR and understand fully the city’s financial position,” she said.

Upon completion, the CAFR is judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, including demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and groups to read the report.

GFOA is a nonprofit association with offices in Chicago and Washington, D.C. serving approximately 17,500 government finance professionals.

Make sure to RSVP for Council’s Open House Dec. 15.

Courtesy City of Milton

There are just a few days left to RSVP for the Mayor’s Holiday Open House hosted by City Council Saturday, Dec. 15 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the home of Mayor Joe Lockwood on Dorris Road.

To RSVP, please e-mail rsvp@cityofmiltonga.us and include your name and address to verify you are a Milton resident. You will be sent an invitation to print out.

The entire city is welcome to the informal holiday party. All food and drinks will be donated by City Council and local businesses. Confirmed participating businesses include Crabbapple Tavern, Edible Arrangements, 'Cue, Xian Chinese Bistro, Milton's Cuisine and Cocktails, Sip, Mambo Jambo Cafe, Ippolito's, Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub, El Azteca, Brooklyn Joe’s Pizza, Pasta & Grill, Scottsdale Farms and Vintage Pizzeria.

Shuttled parking will be available from Milton High School, 13025 Birmingham Highway in Milton (click here for directions). Handicapped parking will be available at the home, 375 Dorris Road in Milton (click here for directions).

For more information about the party, contact Christine Doss, Executive Aide to Mayor and City Council, at 678-242-2492 or christine.doss@cityofmiltonga.us.

Milton awarded Green Communities certification.

By Accessmilton.com

The City of Milton on Wednesday earned Green Communities certification from the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) for leadership in the efficient and sustainable use of natural resources in metro Atlanta.

Milton is now recognized as a “Bronze” level Green Community, one of only 18 jurisdictions in the state to receive the honor since the program began four years ago. It is the first new North Fulton city to gain the designation, the result of more than two years of work involving staff and volunteers from Milton Grows Green (MGG).

Additionally, it is the first and only community to receive credit for having a community forestry master plan.

The designation comes mere weeks after Milton took first place for local governments in the Clean Air Campaign’s 2012 PACE awards thanks to the city’s commute options programs to reduce traffic and improve air quality.

“At only six years old, Milton has recognized the value of being a green community by promoting an excellent quality of life combined with environmental stewardship,” said Cindy Eade, the city’s environmental sustainability coordinator.

And the effort won’t end here, said Michele McIntosh-Ross, principal planner with Milton.

“We’re not far from gaining silver-level certification, and from there we’ll go to gold,” she said.

Over the past two years, city staff and MGG implemented sustainable practices in all aspects of the city’s operations, including energy and water consumption, green building standards, reducing waste and protecting green space and trees. Additionally, they have tirelessly promoted sustainability at city events and local schools.

“Milton [is] setting an example for businesses and other organizations seeking to use resources wisely and efficiently,” said Tad Leithead, ARC chairman. “Sustainability – economic, social and environmental – is the foundation of ARC’s Plan 2040, and we applaud the efforts of all of our certified Green Communities for their leadership in ushering in a more sustainable region.”

ARC developed the Green Communities Program to foster greater environmental stewardship and recognize local governments that invest in programs leading to a more sustainable region. The nationally recognized program showcases the ways in which local governments are helping to transform the region by reducing their environmental footprint.

For more information on the City of Milton’s sustainability efforts, please visit the MGG by clicking here. You may also contact Eade at 678-242-2509 or cindy.eade@cityofmiltonga.us.

For 2013, business license renewals cannot be mailed.

By Accessmilton.com

Due to state law concerning the Illegal Immigration Reform and Enforcement Act passed by the Georgia General Assembly last year, 2013 business license renewal forms cannot be mailed back to the City of Milton.

Instead, if you renew your business license for 2013, you must e-mail the forms to bl@cityofmiltonga.us or hand-deliver them to City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway Suite 107 Suite F (click here for directions, click here for a map of City Hall).

Additionally, all applicants must submit Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) affidavits along with identification such as a driver's license, passport or legal immigration document. Businesses will receive the E-verify affidavit, SAVE affidavit and credit card authorizations forms in the mail along with instructions on how to file these documents.

These documents are being mailed in early December, said Kathleen Field, Community Development Director for the City of Milton. However, if you are a business owner you may begin the process immediately by downloading the forms below.

New Business License

Business License Renewal

Private employer Affidavit

Private Employer Exemption Affidavit

Affidavit Of Presense In the United States

Credit Card Authorization Form

All forms and payments are due by March 31, 2013.

"We're hoping the e-mail address allows applicants an alternative to making an in-person visit to City Hall," Field said. "Using the e-mail will cut down on wait times due to walk-in traffic."

For more information, contact Jamila Jones, permit technician, at jamila.jones@cityofmiltonga.us or 678-242-2521.

Entire city invited to mayor’s Christmas party.

City of Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood and his wife Dawn Lockwood will be opening their home to the community for a Christmas open house.

by Joan Durbin jdurbin@neighbornewspapers.com

The idea to invite 30,000 or so people to their home began with Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood’s late night chat with his wife, Dawn.

“We were lying in bed, talking about having a Christmas party again this year,” the mayor recalled, “and I said how about inviting the entire city?”

At first, Lockwood said, his wife didn’t take him seriously. “She was like, now really, who do you really want to invite?” he said with a chuckle.

When it became clear her husband meant every resident of Milton, “I was a little hesitant at first,” Dawn Lockwood said. “But I’m actually looking forward to it now. We love to entertain and this will be a good party.”

All Milton city council members have told Lockwood they would be there and be co-hosts, he said. “They have been very supportive. They’re bringing desserts and we are all chipping in for beverages. Some restaurants are going to be donating food. No city funds or taxpayer money will be spent.”

The open house will be Saturday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Lockwood home, 375 Dorris Road. There is handicapped parking at the site and shuttle buses will be running from Milton High School, 13025 Birmingham Highway.

The event is intended to be casual and will afford residents the opportunity to shake hands and chat with elected officials in an informal, social setting.

“I think it’s pretty novel. It will be a big party with a small town, community feel,” Lockwood said.

Councilwoman Karen Thurman said she was looking forward to celebrating the holidays with other Milton residents.

“It is very gracious of the mayor and his wife to allow the city council to help host a Christmas party at his house at which we invite all the residents of Milton,” she said. “I am planning on bringing Congo bars, which is a recipe from my grandmother, Polly Mobley, a Milton resident.”

Councilman Burt Hewitt said it is very hospitable for the mayor to open his home to the entire city. “I also think it’s a bit crazy! I’m not sure what I will be cooking. I have never prepared for 32,000.” Lockwood said the event is not a dress-up affair. “I plan to be wearing jeans,” he said.

With an event this big, advance planning is crucial. To get an idea of how many people will be coming, the Lockwoods are asking for RSVPs at rsvp@cityofmiltonga.us. Include a name and address to verify Milton residency. An invitation will be sent by return email to print out and bring to the party.

For more information, call Christine Doss, executive aide to the mayor and city council, at (678) 242-2492 or christine.doss@cityofmiltonga.us.

Read more: NeighborNewspapers.com - Entire city invited to mayor’s Christmas party

New Poll Up - Old Poll Results

All:

We have a new poll up.

It asks "Does the City of Milton Treat All Citizens Equally?"

Have your say today in the right margin.

Below are the most recent poll results=>

Teen killed in Forsyth County wreck.

AM NOTE: Every time we post one of these terrible stories, it shows the horrible reality of what can transpire when speeding occurs. Milton GA needs to hire more officers and work proactivetly with both open road neighborhoods and commuters to insure our roads are the safest in Georgia. Speeding should not be tolerated.

By Alexis Stevens The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Forsyth County investigators believe excessive speed and wet conditions may have been factors in a wreck that killed a high school student and injured several others Monday afternoon.

Kyle Alan Robins, 17, died in the two-vehicle wreck, which happened around 4 p.m. on Hendrix Road in Cumming, investigators said. Robins was driving a four-door sedan with a classmate in the front seat at the time of crash, which happened about two miles from North Forsyth High School.

Robins died after apparently crossing the center line and into the path of an oncoming pickup truck, Coroner Lauren McDonald III told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution late Monday.

“It was a massive impact,” McDonald said. “This truly was a horrific accident.”

The impact split the car into two, with the front portion traveling about 70 yards from the point of collision, McDonald said.

“The car had turned into the truck,” McDonald said. “The driver was on the vulnerable side.”

A front seat passenger, Joel Knost, was transported by ambulance to North Fulton Hospital, where he was in serious condition Monday night. Both teens were juniors at North Forsyth, according to Jennifer Caracciolo, spokeswoman for Forsyth County schools.

Three people in the truck were also injured, according to Chief Jason Shivers with the Forsyth County fire department. An 18-year-old female and two juveniles were transported to hospitals by ambulance for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. That teen is senior at the same school, Caracciolo said. She was transported to North Fulton Hospital, where she was treated and released later Monday.

The ages of the other passengers in the truck were not immediately available. Both were transported by ambulance to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite, Shivers said.

After learning of the crash, some students gathered at the high school, Caracciolo said. Student leaders were planning to gather at 8 a.m. Tuesday at the school’s flag pole to remember the classmate who died, she said.

Additional grief counselors are expected to be at the high school Tuesday, Caracciolo said. News of the student’s death was posted on the school’s website.

Robins was a member of the golf team at the school and also played baseball. Will Johnson, an assistant baseball coach for a summer league team, told The AJC he hadn’t gotten to know Robins well. But in a very short time, Johnson was impressed with the teen’s dedication and positive attitude, even during the more laid-back summer season.

“He was one of those kids that never missed a game,” Johnson said.

Road to Safety competition challenges North Fulton students.

First and second place winners in last year’s Road to Safety Program from Johns Creek High School are pictured with Fulton County Schools Area Superintendent Dr. Sam Taylor (back right), Principal Buck Greene (back left) and Jamie Chuven (front middle), video production teacher at Johns Creek HS. (click for larger version)

by PHOEBE BUMSTED; The Milton Herald

December 05, 2012

NORTH FULTON, Ga. – The third annual Road to Safety video competition will accept entries from high schools across Fulton County until Dec. 18. The top three winners will receive cash prizes of up to $1,000 in addition to donated prizes from local businesses.

The contest, inspired by the memory of Parker Jackson and Patrick Enloe, aims to encourage students to participate in safe driving habits.

"[Their stories showed me that] we've got to do something to get these kids to be safer drivers," Lisa Cauley, Road to Safety co-founder, said.

Cauley believes that Road to Safety is an effective way to reach students because they will be more receptive to messages from their peers than their parents or teachers.

Video submissions can cover any type of dangerous driving, from texting while driving to hydroplaning. The goal is to raise awareness about all kinds of dangerous driving.

"We had more texting and driving videos than any other topic…There's a lot of different things that have not been addressed yet that can still be addressed. Hopefully, we'll get a little more variety this year," Cauley said.

Past videos can be found at the RTS website www.road2safety.com. Schools have access to these videos, and Cauley encourages them to air the videos at large school events such as dances where students might be drinking.

Johns Creek Driving School has used winning videos in its program, and RTS has been recognized through proclamations from the Fulton County Commissioners and the Georgia State Senate.

Participating schools include Alpharetta, Cambridge, Centennial, Chattahoochee, Johns Creek, Milton, Northview and Roswell. Students over the age of 14 can submit videos for consideration to their video production teacher or principal, or they can mail entries directly to RTS. Videos must be on a flash drive or SD card in .mov format in order to be considered.

The judges for the Road to Safety competition will include Lisa Cauley, School Board member Katie Reeves, a police officer, Steve Jones from Johns Creek Driving School and one previous winner. They focus primarily on the message of the videos rather than the quality of the video production. Cauley emphasized that the focus of the contest is not video production but driving safety awareness.

"This is not a video production competition. This is about sending a message, and any student with a home computer, a smartphone or a camcorder can make a two minute video," Cauley said.

Deadline for submissions is Dec. 18 and judging will take place in mid-January.

For more information about RTS, visit www.road2safety.com, email them at roadtosafety@att.net or call 678-428-4254.

Family and friends honor the life of Milton Coach Mike Scott.

by Carolyn Aspenson; Appen Newspapers

December 05, 2012

MILTON, Ga.- "A man never stands so tall or straight when he stoops to help the youth of a community," Milton High School Head Coach Howie DeCristafaro said about Coach Mike Scott.

Scott succumbed to pancreatic cancer Saturday, Dec. 1st.

"Mike wasn't like other people," said Todd Perry, a close friend of Scott. "He was special." Perry became emotional while talking about his friend.

"Mike had a passion for football, but his true passion was for the boys," he said. "He taught these kids that football prepares you for life, for dealing with the challenges it brings."

Scott, known to most as Big Show, because of his booming size and personality, played college football for only a short time.

"He had a heart problem and didn't pass his physical the year he was set to play in the starting line up," Perry said.

Perry said that while Scott's heart wasn't strong enough to play the sport, it was too strong to walk away from it entirely.

"He ended up being a student coach for the team," he said. "And that's where he found his passion for coaching."

Scott's coaching career included Trinity University in Texas, the University of Central Florida, the University of West Georgia, Southeastern Louisiana University, the University of West Alabama and Milton High School.

"Mike was more than just a coach," Milton Athletic Director, Gary Sylvestri said. "He taught PE and health and had contact with every kid in this school. They loved him."

Sylvestri also said there is a memorial board in the Milton weight room with notes to Scott. "His life touched everyone. There are more notes up there from female students than male."

The notes will be put in a memorial box and given to the family.

"Mike put his heart into everything he did," Sylvestri said. "He never said no to anyone, and even though he had this big, tough guy presence, the kids saw through it, and they respected him."

Carrie Smith started a fundraising page on Giveforward.com for Scott's family, hoping to raise money to help with medical costs.

"I got excited when we hit the $2,000 mark," she said. "I'd hoped to raise maybe $10,000 but we're over $50,000 now and it's unbelievable."

Smith said local businesses provided products and services for fundraising.

"We've received cash donations from both people and businesses," she said. "It's wonderful to see so many people coming out to support Mike and his family."

Perry said schools in the area have raised money for the Scott family.

"Our biggest competitor raised money at our game," he said. "The community is really pulling together to support Mike and his family."

To donate to the family www.giveforward.com/miracleformike.

Scott is survived by his wife of nearly eight years, Mary Jane Bray Scott; daughter, Abigail Scott; and son, Anthony Michael Scott, all of Canton; father, Waller Massie Scott Jr. of West Chester, Ohio; and sister, Debbie Scott Harrison of Nicholasville, Ky.

See photos from the fourth annual Tree Lighting.

Courtesy City of Milton\

It was a clear, cool night Nov. 29, perfect for the fourth annual City of Milton Tree Lighting.

A large crowd gathered at the site, Ga. 9 and Webb Road, to hear the Milton and Cambridge choruses, see the tree lit and have photos made with Santa Claus. And the man himself did not disappoint, arriving in a City of Milton fire truck to the tune of “Here Comes Santa Claus.”

Special thanks to everyone involved, including the singers, local businesses, and of course Hayden Moore, the Alpharetta High School student who helped Mayor Joe Lockwood light the tree for the third year in a row.

To view photos from the event, click here.

Milton police arrest home invasion suspect.

Courtesy Milton Police Department

City of Milton police have arrested and charged a man they believe to be responsible for a Nov. 21 armed home invasion on Hopewell Road.

The suspect is believed to be in the country illegally from Honduras. He is in Fulton County Jail without bail and attempts are being made to identify his real name.

Police said the suspect allegedly took part in a home invasion the day before Thanksgiving in which a family was held at gunpoint. The family owns a home-based business, and the suspect and another man allegedly came under the false pretenses of looking for work.

One of the family members was able to escape and ran to a neighbor’s home. There she called police. The suspects, who ransacked the home for money, fled on foot when they heard sirens. No one was hurt.

Officers were able to track the suspects with a K-9 unit until they were likely picked up by a vehicle. Later investigative leads led police to the Savannah area, where the Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police Department assisted Milton detectives in apprehending the jailed man.

The suspect is charged with armed robbery, first degree burglary, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and false imprisonment.

Milton police continue their search for the other two suspects believed to be involved in the home invasion.

Milton HS coach dies of cancer.

By David Wickert The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

A Milton High School football coach died Saturday after losing a battle with pancreatic cancer, Channel 2 Action News reported.

Mike Scott, 36, was a teacher and coach at the school in Alpharetta for six years. An offensive line and strength coach, he was diagnosed with cancer in early October and was given six to eight months to live.

He previously played football at the University of Kentucky and coached college football. He is survived by his wife and two children.