Milton Herald - December 28, 2023

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A YEAR IN REVIEW

Ballot operation leads headlines ► PAGE 3

PHOTOS BY: AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

LOOKING BACK AT

2023 Clockwise from top left: Peggy Meyer-Salzmann, leader of a crafting group, points to a crocheted mandala hanging on the Milton Branch Library wall Feb. 9; A bagpipe performer plays “Amazing Grace” during Milton’s Memorial Day ceremony May 29; Milton Mayor Peyton Jamison, center, and Milton Fire Chief Gabe Benmoussa perform a hose-uncoupling ceremony for the rebuilt Fire Station 42 on Thompson Road Aug. 31. Read the recap, Page 3

Outgoing council reflects on term

► PAGE 4

OPINION

Jamison: City aimed for safety, savings, character ► PAGE 6

2 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

PUBLIC SAFETY

Police investigate threats toward mayor

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

770-442-3278 AppenMedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — Milton Mayor Peyton Jamison is continuing to receive threats, and this time, they involve Gov. Brian Kemp.

According to the Dec. 16 incident report, police spoke with the suspect who had allegedly made threats against “several individuals,” but the suspect was not identified. The report states that the investiga-

319 N. Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009 HANS APPEN Publisher RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus

Woman accuses roommate of stealing valuables

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MILTON, Ga. — A Milton woman reported to police Dec. 12 that she thinks her roommate stole $3,300 in jewelry while she was incarcerated.

The woman told police she had been incarcerated most of November and that her roommate had full access to the apartment on Morris Road. She said the roommate used her car without permission and she learned her bedroom had been ransacked, according to the police report.

The woman said after the suspect moved out without notice, she noticed several pieces of jewelry were missing, the report says.

She told police the suspect apologized for going through her bedroom, but didn’t admit to taking the jewelry. The suspect has since blocked the woman on all social media along with her phone number, the report says.

Police investigate theft on residents’ porches Judged a newspaper of General Excellence 2023

MILTON, Ga. — Police responded to two incidents of porch piracy, one on Haven Terrace and another on Belleterre Drive.

In a Dec. 12 incident, a Milton man told police he received a video doorbell notification of a package delivery at around 5 p.m. on Haven Terrace and another soon after showing a person had taken two packages from his doorstep.

tion continues, but no other details were provided.

Jamison told Appen Media he had again received threats toward him and his family.

The first incident was in early September, when Jamison told detectives he received a call from a number he didn’t recognize before the Milton City Council that evening. The caller threatened to kill the mayor and “everyone there,” according to the Sept. 6 incident report.

Minutes after the phone call, Jamison

received three more text messages. One demanded that the mayor “leave now” and to not “show up in any part of Milton exposed.” Another read “Georgia is going down. Especially here.”

When asked about Kemp’s involvement in the Dec. 16 incident, Jamison said he did not know the details of what had transpired. Garrison Douglas, Kemp’s press secretary, and the Milton Police Department could not be reached for comment.

This is a developing story.

According to the incident report, the first video shows a Fedex delivery driver dropping packages on the front door step.

The second shows a light-skinned Black or Hispanic woman wearing a ball cap and face mask, walking to the doorstep with a DoorDash bag and placing two packages in the bag. The suspect then walked toward the driveway, the report says.

A witness told police she saw a black Dodge Charger with dark tinted windows drive toward the exit to the neighborhood at around the same time the packages were stolen. She said the vehicle was unknown to her and that she knows the vehicles that belong to residents in her small, gated neighborhood.

Police spoke with a Milton woman Dec. 13 who reported that a delivery of four iPhones had been stolen from her porch on Belleterre Drive. While away from home the day before, she told police a FedEx delivery driver took a picture of a package by her front door. But, when she returned, she said there was no package.

She told police she paid around $330 for the phones as part of a trade-in deal, but that she was informed she would have to make a $1,000 payment for another shipment.

POLICE BLOTTER

Man attacks father, leaves bloody scene MILTON, Ga. — Police arrested a 28-yearold Milton man Dec. 16 for cutting his

All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.

father with a butter knife and striking a second victim.

When police arrived at the family’s home on Triple Crown Court, the suspect admitted to attacking his father. His father said the suspect had come down the stairs screaming, then armed himself with a butter knife, according to the incident report.

Many of the details in the report were redacted, but police noted that there was blood on the father’s white T-shirt and blood on the wall and curtain where the suspect had cornered him.

The second victim, whose relationship to the suspect has not been identified, told police that she ran out of the home to escape the suspect. But, she said the suspect caught up to her, grabbed her hair and began hitting her until the suspect’s father pushed him off of her, according to the report.

Police charged the suspect with family violence aggravated assault and family violence battery and was transported to an unidentified location.

But, police said the suspect was set for a psychological evaluation. The second victim told police the suspect had been making claims about inventing Tesla trucks and that the plans were stolen from him.

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NEWS

YEAR IN REVIEW

AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 28, 2023 | 3

Milton makes a name for itself with self-run municipal election City tackles greenspace, opens Fire Station 42

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com MILTON, Ga. — This year was an historic one for Milton, a city that others inside and outside the state were watching as it pulled itself away from Fulton County to run its own municipal election.

After more than a year of planning, from an idea that sparked in 2021, Milton did it with an estimated actual cost of $115,000. The city saved at least $100,000 in its decision to bring in-house operations of its municipal election.

But, city staff spent a significant amount of time on the project, creating standard operating procedures from scratch with state code as a guide; buying and setting up equipment; interviewing and hiring more than 50 poll workers; all while coordinating work between three teams of volunteers to help pull it off.

Appen Media calculated that time, in terms of salaries and hours, against

an already-busy schedule for Milton’s top city officials. That cost was more than $190,000, and it caused several city projects to fall to the wayside.

A mock election was held mid-October, and a few days later, advance voting opened at City Hall and by mail for those voting absentee.

Election Day quickly came and went with clerks operating the polls across three locations, eventually transporting ballots to City Hall where they were counted into the early morning hours, and three new Post 2 councilmembers were declared.

Whether the city will do it again for 2025 is a decision for another day. City staff plan to present an assessment to the City Council in the next couple of months.

Reviewing greenspace In September, Milton held public workshops on the city’s six greenspaces to help draft The Greenprint, a plan to help identify appropriate usage, management and possible improvement to the properties funded by the $25 million bond voters passed in 2016.

See REVIEW, Page 29

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Poll manager Judy Burds hands over ballots for counting at Milton City Park and Preserve on Election Day Nov. 7.

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4 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

NEWS

Milton City Council honors outgoing members Officials deliberate on sewer connection

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com MILTON, Ga. — Emotions stirred the Milton City Council meeting Dec. 18 as councilmembers Paul Moore and Rick Mohrig bid farewell to their official roles in the packed room.

With service that pre-dates Milton’s incorporation in 2006, both councilmembers received standing ovations with about two dozen supporters joining them as they held a plaque of recognition in front of the dais.

“I think we all know when you take public office … you sacrifice time away from work. It’s a big, big deal,” Mayor Peyton Jamison said to the retiring pair.

“I appreciate everything that y'all have done for this community. You’ve made it a better place.”

Moore had been a Planning Commission member for 13 years before he was elected to the City Council in 2019. His District 2 seat will go to Doug Hene next year.

Moore recalled his first itch of community advocacy in 1998 when two

Councilmembers and city staff applaud Councilman Rick Mohrig Dec. 18. Phil Cranmer will assume his District 3 seat next year.

PHOTOS BY: AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

About two dozen supporters stand beside Councilman Paul Moore at the Milton City Council meeting Dec. 18. Doug Hene will take his District 2 seat next year.

100,000-square feet grocery stores, Kroger and Publix, were proposed for Birmingham Crossroads.

“I never imagined that my passion

would turn into what it has over a postcard…” Moore said.

He thanked his wife for her steadfast support, saying the last two years were “particularly challenging.” While he filed his declaration of intent to run for reelection this year, Moore pulled back. In a Facebook announcement Aug. 21, he cited a “new reality” in Milton that had taken a toll on his family.

“Whoever would have guessed that my best efforts at making sure Milton stayed Milton would find itself in the crosshairs…” Moore said at the meeting.

Councilman steps down A member of the Milton Organizing Committee, Mohrig was elected to serve as a councilmember on Milton’s first City Council in 2006. He returned to the role in 2013.

In addition to his official city role, Mohrig served on a number of school councils and helped form the Bethany Area Residents Association, started out of frustration to form a united voice with Fulton County.

He said people first started meeting at his home, trying to fight builders over high-density development coming in along Ga. 9, but it soon turned into an organized group.

“That gave us more of a seat at the table…” Mohrig said.

After a while, he said developers started to speak with the group as well as a Fulton County representative who had asked about a potential overlay district for Ga. 9, later implemented.

“People were making fun of Milton.

They said, ‘Ah, you’ll never be anything,’”

Mohrig said. “We had a vision, and we said ‘This is what we think we’re going to be,’ and we sold that vision.”

He said Milton wasn’t trying to be “Alpharetta lite,” but wanted to do government differently than what had been seen before, like the community having more of a voice.

“That’s what this is really about, and that’s why it is important who you actually elect for city council because they represent you,” Mohrig said. “Nobody wants to come here every Monday night and have to be sitting here, fighting. That’s not what the goal is.”

Sewer connection In other matters Monday night, the City Council voted to defer a case of sewer connection after lengthy debate.

In 2002 or 2003, City Attorney Ken Jarrard said sewer infrastructure was installed to serve a residence on Glencreek Way, and the property owners have asked to connect to it. The agreement, which had been drafted as an “offer,” would have placed deed restrictions on future property owners to prohibit sewer extension.

Mohrig recalled a similar instance several years ago with property on Hopewell Road, which he said the community had characterized as sewer extension in more recent discussions.

“This is not a sewer extension,” Jarrard said. “The sewer was installed prior to Milton coming into existence.”

Moore raised concerns about whether a vote to approve the agreement would put the issue to bed, considering the property owners are in a “hold out.”

But, Jarrard wagered that the owners are attempting to close on the property and are ensuring that the deed restriction is acceptable to all parties. He also confirmed the property would not be “economically viable” if the sewer connection is prohibited from use.

“If you vote yes, remember that you will forevermore be known as someone who extended sewer,” Moore said. “You can explain all day long, you can give all the excuses you want, but you will be responsible for extending sewer.”

See COUNCIL, Page 27

AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 28, 2023 | 5

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6 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

A LOOK AHEAD

OPINION

Milton has focused on safety and thrift while preserving its character This past year, the city took major steps forward in many ways. We opened our new Fire Station 42. We completed important plans and other initiatives. We saw our community events PEYTON JAMISON surge in popularMayor of Milton ity. And much, much more. In other words, 2023 saw tremendous positive developments in Milton.

As great as the year has been, I’m even more excited for 2024.

Our team is committed to making Milton even better over the next 12 months, because that’s what our citizens deserve. To make that happen, we’ll listen, assess facts, consider options, then act. And we’ll always be mindful of what makes Milton unique – and how we can keep it that way.

Oftentimes, this means tackling issues head-on. Transportations improvements are prime examples.

As much as we might prefer to stop

anyone else from driving through Milton, we can’t ignore congestion or dangers. This is the year we’ll kickstart implementing citizen-guided plans. You’ll see work on roundabouts at Freemanville and Birmingham, Providence Road and Bethany Road, as well as Bethany Creek Drive and Bethany Bend. We’ll also work to make getting around Crabapple safer and easier on foot, by car, as well as in PTVs. Anticipation is also growing for Fire Station 45, which we expect to begin building later in 2024 by the Providence Road/Birmingham Highway roundabout. Fire and EMS statistics showed a notable “hole” around this part of Milton – which, significantly, is close to our emerging downtown and denser surrounding neighborhoods – when it comes to emergency response times. Constructing this station is a potentially life- and property-saving measure to address that deficiency, mindful that every second counts in a crisis.

Since we are Milton, though, this won’t be a cookie-cutter struc-

More inside

Milton Police Chief Jason Griffin: Engagement, communication will be key to public safety. Page 8 ture. Our City Hall, Public Safety Complex, and the rebuilt Station 42 demonstrate the City of Milton’s unique aesthetic and high standards.

That surely will be the case for Station 45.

This is because details matter in Milton. You see it in both city building designs and the vetting of commercial ones; whatever goes up should look like it belongs here. Our land use policies help preserve scenic drives and safeguard our rural heritage. Our citizen-guided strategy for greenspaces aims to devise the right blend of amenities, trails, and conservation. And we make fiscal responsibility our top priority by keeping to budgets, maximizing outside funding, embracing a pay-as-you-go system, and putting taxpayers first – like when we lowered our millage rate for the second con-

secutive year.

It's our job to recognize realities, shortcomings, and opportunities to benefit large segments of our community … then make an impact.

We saw value in forging stronger relationships within our public and private schools, which led to Officer Pannell’s recent start as Milton Police’s first ever School Liaison Officer.

We know that people want more and better recycling options, which we’ll explore with our new Solid Waste Management and Recycling Plan. Milton residents excel, and love, sports even if there aren’t currently enough fields to meet demand; so we’ll keep looking for ways to add athletic park space. We’ll focus on the Highway 9 area, which is about to undergo GDOT’s road widening. That project presents a real challenge that – if we are intentional and savvy – can serve as a pivotal opportunity to enliven, and in some cases, reinvent this crucial corridor.

So, yes, Milton right now is the place to be. And to ensure it stays that way, we’ll keep moving forward.

Wishing You Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!

– YOUR MILTON NEIGHBORS & REAL ESTATE EXPERTS

Brad Poole M 678.618.0398 | O 404.668.6621 brad@atlantahomeproperty.com bradpoolegroup.com bradpoolegroup Brad Poole Group is a team of real estate agents affiliated with Compass, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 28, 2023 | 7

“A Story That Must Be Told” A Narrative Of Joy, Tragedy, Hope, Sorrow, Corruption & Illegal Acts In A Changing Milton

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8 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

A LOOK AHEAD

OPINION FROM THE PUBLISHER

marks renewed effort Engagement, communication 2024 for great community journalism will be key to public safety I’ve had the privilege of being Police Chief for just a few weeks, but I’ve been part of the Milton family for much longer – 13 years, in fact. The more time you spend in this community, the more JASON GRIFFIN you love it. Milton Milton Police Chief is a place where people know each other, watch out for one another, and want to do what’s right.

As a Police Department, it’s our responsibility to embrace these values, harness the power of our great community, and work hard and together with our citizens to make a difference. We are consistently one of Georgia’s safest cities because we’ve been able to do just that.

We cannot take this spirit, or the statistics that justify our safe city recognitions, for granted. That’s why, in 2024, we’re committed to reinforcing the strong foundation of trust and transparency with our community that’s vital to our success as a department and Milton’s high quality of life. Among other things, this means providing more information on our communications channels. When people understand what’s happening, they can take helpful precautions. And by sharing information and having open lines of communication, the public can help our officers be more effective.

Those connections are vital. We strive to be present, and available, for all of Milton. We were excited, this past fall, to bring on Jason Pannell to become Milton’s first ever School Liaison Officer. An MPD veteran and a father himself, Officer Pannell has already become an active presence at public and private schools forging relationships, offering guidance, and generally relating to young people

Jason Griffin was recognized as Milton’s new police chief in a ceremony Dec. 8. that police are here to work with you to make our world better.

Of course, the world isn’t perfect. And as uniquely secure as Milton is, we’re not immune to accidents or crime. Regarding the latter, we’ll work intently with city government partners to implement parts of our Local Road Safety Plan. Police play an important role in keeping our roadways safe when it comes to enforcement and education. We also intend this year to enhance our crimefighting capabilities by taking a targeted approach to preventing and solving crime through smart strategic planning, useful intelligence, and effective technologies. We’re going to focus on all crime – regardless of the severity.

Still, the biggest factor in the Milton Police Department’s success isn’t any initiative or computer program or new strategy. It’s people. MPD’s men and women should understand our community and what we expect of them. And our leadership must understand, and support, them. We worked hard in 2023 to hire officers from other agencies so we would not be stretched thin in personnel or experience. We also created an officer resiliency and peer support program focused on our team members’ mental health, teaching them coping mechanisms to deal stressors of life in law enforcement. Because the better that our officers can care for themselves, the better they’ll care for our community.

There’s a lot we, in the Milton Police Department, cannot guarantee for the coming year. But I can promise that our officers will collaborate, listen, and do all we can for our community.

HANS APPEN Publisher

What motivates a person to identify a problem and resolve to be a part of the solution?

What makes someone read a troublesome news article or see something that bothers them in their community and say, “You know what? I

can fix that.”

These are questions I’ve thought about and discussed in conversations with many of you in 2023.

The constant is that we have no problem identifying the problems: Food is too expensive. Government doesn’t seem to work. Housing, what inventory there is to be had, is unaffordable and unattainable. Our kids are inheriting a world full of boogey men of our own creation.

But what are the solutions? What, if anything, can we do to move the needle?

The Appen Press Club hosted an event last week at Olde Blind Dog in Milton. We lined up our reporting staff, stood them in front of microphones, and discussed the work of our newsroom in 2023 and some of the projects on the horizon for next year.

Afterward, all of them stuck around to have individual conversations with attendees, answer questions, and listen to story ideas.

I was approached by one young woman, a college student, would told me she would be graduating in May with a degree in journalism. She’d come to the event to network and given the opportunity, she wanted to ask me for my thoughts on the future of the industry I love and work in every day.

She is still a true believer and loves what she is studying, but the reality of graduating and growing up was sinking in.

“I want to make a difference in people’s lives. Can you still do that in journalism? I am worried that despite journalists’ best efforts to inform, people don’t take it seriously anymore, or just don’t care.”

She told me about important stories she had written for her college newspaper that seemed to disappear into the void. That many of her peers confessed they hadn’t even known their school has a student run newspaper.

What makes someone read a troublesome news article or see something that bothers them in their community and say, “You know what? I can fix that.”

“Just keep showing up,” I told her.

“How we report the news and where we report the news may change, but people do care. Look around you.”

Dozens of people were lined up to talk to our reporters, from all over metro Atlanta. Young and old, black and white, rich and poor. They were given an opportunity to be heard, in their community, and they showed up.

We heard from people discussing veterans’ issues, protecting local arts, government transparency, civic engagement and much more. For an hour after the event had officially ended people wanted to contribute to their local newspaper because they cared about the stories that were being told – and the stories that needed to be told.

I continue to believe that showing up is half the battle. Meet people where they are and listen. They will tell you what is important to them, what inspires them to action and to service, but you have to put in the work.

My commitment to you in 2024 is to continue to put in the work. We are proudly your local newspaper and are ready and willing to be a part of the solution.

Merry Christmas to all, and Happy New Year.

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AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 28, 2023 | 9

“A Story That Must Be Told” A NATION OF LAWS...

EXCEPT IN THE “CITY” OF MILTON!

“CITY” Violated GA Code 17-8-32 Illegal Search and Seizure.

“CITY” Violated the Federal Right to Farm Act. “CITY” Violated GA Code 30-5-3 Elder Abuse.

“CITY” Violated GA Code 16-12-4 Cruelty to Animals.

“CITY” Violated GA Code 51-9-7 Diversion of Storm Water.

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COMMUNITY

10 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

All For One offers help to orphaned children around the world

By ADAM DARBY newsroom@appenmedia.com

PHOTOS BY TERESSA RUSPI/PROVIDED

All For One supports 71 students at St. Hellen's Primary School in Kampala, Uganda each month.

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ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Devoting your life to helping and providing for underprivileged children around the world is no simple task. But for All For One founder Jeff Levitan and CEO Teressa Ruspi, it’s just another day at the office.

All For One, based in Alpharetta, continues to offer services and opportunities to vulnerable children worldwide by providing them with healthcare, a stable home environment and the academic tools necessary for them to thrive in their respective communities.

“The uniqueness of the All For One Foundation lies in its ability to inspire individuals with a passion for purposeful leadership and intentional giving,” Ruspi said.

“The organization offers diverse avenues for giving, each making a direct and immediate impact on children's lives.”

At age 30, Levitan knew he wanted to help underserved populations around the globe, planting the seeds for AFO’s initial launch. Since 2002, AFO has constructed orphanages, healthcare centers, schools and full child prosperity centers to provide children with a fighting chance to grow and prosper. Their expansive outreach includes countries such as Costa Rica, Guinea, Uganda and Sierra Leone, among others.

“Through sustainable support, it not only fulfills basic life necessities but also opens doors for underserved children to flourish, ensuring a better future and an

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improved quality of life,” Ruspi said. “The feedback from those engaged with All For One has been genuinely transformative… those involved find immense joy in the daily impact All For One creates.”

Headquartered on Roswell Street in Alpharetta, the organization regularly brings awareness through fundraising events within the community. In honor of World Orphan’s Day on Nov. 13, AFO partnered with the Stars Foundation to provide funds for St. Barnabas Orthodox Mission school in Kenya in efforts to help a young family of five orphaned children. This serves as part of their annual efforts to stand and support orphans in need on the second Monday of November. Cities in Tennessee, Texas and California have offered their support for the cause. Their next major event planned for spring will feature their high school student interns from Innovation Academy and volunteer days for middle school students from local schools.

“AFO aims to engage middle and high school students in the U.S., cultivating philanthropic leadership and offering youth volunteer opportunities in education, technology and healthcare,” Ruspi said. “Over the next three years, we plan to enhance educational access by establishing computer labs, libraries and providing teacher training in multiple orphanages across Africa and South America.”

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Danson Levitan, son of Founder Jeff Levitan, and Chief Executive Officer Teressa Ruspi regularly attend local events to expand All For One’s outreach throughout the community.

AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 28, 2023 | 11

“A Story That Must Be Told” Expose the Lie!

POWERful Quotes!

“You Need To Sell Out To Development” - Board Of Education.

“Move Your Horses Off Your Property” - Milton Council Member.

“If I Was The Developer, I Would Tell You To ______ Off...” - Milton Council Member.

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Read the Free Online Story at www.astorythatmustbetold.com 770-653-0552

12 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

COMMUNITY

January book events kick off new year with a bang

By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI newsroom@appenmedia.com After the book-buying bustle of the holidays, the number of author events in January may seem small, but some are certainly mighty.

Karen White, Milton’s own New York Times bestseller, will be in conversation with suspense author Deborah Goodrich Royce Jan. 12 at Poe & Company Bookstore.

Then, Brad Taylor, author of the blockbuster Pike Logan series, will appear at the Milton Library Jan. 27. Hosted by A Novel Idea, Taylor will be discussing and signing his latest military thriller, “Dead Man’s Hand,” available that day from Bookmiser.

A 21-year veteran of the U.S. Army Infantry and Special Forces, including eight years with Delta Force, Taylor serves as a security consultant on asymmetric threats for various agencies when he isn’t writing.

When he is, he’s penning intricate storylines packed with authenticity for readers who “love the ticking-clock action,” accord-

Book happenings.

Thursdays, Jan. 4-25, Organizing Your Novel Workshop. Writer and teacher Brandi Bradley will lead a four-week course for writers. 6 p.m. each Thursday in January. $95. Bookmiser, 3822 Roswell Road, Marietta. 770-5095611. bookmiser.net Friday, Jan. 12, Karen White, Debra Goodrich Royce. The authors will discuss Royce’s latest release, “Reef Road.” 5 p.m. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com Saturday, Jan. 13, Paige Watts. The seasoned travel writer will sign her new book, “What’s With Atlanta: The Quirks, Personality, and Charm of the ATL.” Noon. Free. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 314, Suwanee. 770-232-9331. read-it-again.com Tuesday, Jan. 16, Robert Gwaltney, Andrew Diaz Winkelmann and DL Mitchell. A Novel Idea will host Gwaltney, the 2023 Georgia Author of the Year for First Novel, along with other new authors Winkelmann and Mitchell. Mitchell, a practicing small animal veterinarian, will be launching her debut title that evening. 7 p.m.

Free. Brimstone Restaurant & Tavern, 10595 Old Alabama Road, Alpharetta.

770-509-5611. bookmiser.net/bookevents.html Saturday, Jan. 20, Lauren Walier.

“The Dancing Swan,” based on the

ADAM DARBY/APPEN MEDIA

The Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra performs its fourth annual children’s Christmas concert at Johns Creek United Methodist Church Dec. 16.

PROVIDED

New York Times bestselling author Brad Taylor will speak at the Milton Library Jan. 27.

ing to Kirkus Reviews. And, with over 3 million books in print, Taylor’s fast-paced, informed approach is a proven winner.

To submit an author event for the upcoming month, email Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi at kathydesjardins3@gmail.com by the 15th.

author’s real-life story as a ballroom champion with cerebral palsy, will be the focus of a reading and CP fundraiser. 2 p.m. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com Saturday, Jan. 20, Dr. Nicole B. Hight. The local author and pediatrician will be signing her new release, “You Are Made for This!” During a discussion with parents, she’ll explore whether a chapter a day can keep the doctor away and how a love of reading in early childhood may reduce adolescent stress and boost brain and mental health in teens. 3 p.m. Free. Johns Creek Books, 6000 Medlock Bridge Road, 770-696-9999. johnscreekbooks.com Saturday, Jan. 27, Dorothy Padgett.

Atlanta Authors presents Padgett discussing her nonfiction work, “Jimmy Carter: Elected President with Pocket Change & Peanuts,” with a foreword by Carter. Free, in person or online. 2 p.m.

Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St. 404612-9700. forl.net/atlanta-authors Saturday, Jan. 27, Brad Taylor. The New York Times bestselling author of 17 titles will celebrate the release of “Dead Man’s Hand,” the 18th installment in his Pike Logan Series.

A Novel Idea will host Taylor, who will sign books sold by Bookmiser. 4 p.m.

Free. Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road. 770-509-5611. bookmiser.net/ book-events.html

Johns Creek Symphony performs holiday children’s concert

By ADAM DARBY newsroom@appenmedia.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra performed its fourth annual children’s Christmas concert at Johns Creek United Methodist Church Dec. 16 at 2:30 p.m.

The performance featured well-known holiday tunes including “White Christmas,” “Here Comes Santa Claus,” “Sleigh Ride” and selections from the “Nutcracker Suite.”

Executive Director, Linda Brill, provided an introduction and a preview of the upcoming season before handing the microphone over to Ben Assaf, serving as the concert’s emcee. Kids of all ages were encouraged to come up in front of the stage to dance and sing along with their favorite Christmas songs.

“We started these Christmas concerts for kids because our normal Christmas Pops concerts start at 7:30 p.m.… that makes it hard for families to come because a lot of kids are asleep,” Brill said. “I think it’s a great introduction for people. A lot of the time, people experience things for the first time through their kids…this is a great opportunity to discover classical music through a children’s concert.”

Since 2019, the A Kids’ Christmas concert has remained a popular staple for the community. After a brief hiatus in 2020 during the height of the pandemic, the concert has been going strong since its return the following year. Brill, who has served as executive director since 2017, initially became involved with the orchestra in 2014 as a clarinetist. She has noticed a significant growth in audience numbers over the years.

“We’ve had a significant growth in audience every year. This is the fourth year we’ve done it…and people have been very receptive to this,” Brill said. “We really encourage people to come and be

themselves and enjoy the program without the typical concert etiquette that may turn off a lot of people.”

Maestro and Music Director J. Wayne Boughman passed away in November before finishing his final season with the organization. The symphony orchestra has worked hard to celebrate his legacy and brought on seasoned conductor John Morrison to take over for the holiday performances.

“Maestro Boughman really created a very beautiful concert for kids. We are happy that he did that and we’re just trying to honor his concept,” Brill said.

The interactive concert also provided sensory-friendly options for those with special needs including a “chill out zone” for those feeling overstimulated and a dance zone for those with difficulty sitting still. It also featured images in the program representing each song for those communicating non-verbally.

Children excitedly danced and sang along to the familiar tunes before enjoying Assaf’s reading of ‘”Twas the Night Before Christmas,” an army of dancing toy soldiers joining in on the performance of “March of the Toys” from “Babes in Toyland,” and a special appearance by Santa Claus himself to provide everyone with a dose of holiday cheer. Children were offered an opportunity to have photos with Santa after the concert.

“We wanted to have a concert that everybody could come to and that you could bring your young child, parent or grandparent, or anyone with special needs,” Brill said. “Anything that we can do to make the holidays brighter for people is really important for us…We want to be a resource for everybody in our community, not just the people who love Beethoven.

We want to play music that engages all types of people.”

For more information about the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra and their upcoming season, visit JohnsCreekSymphony.org.

AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 28, 2023 | 13

Toast the New Year!

Blushing Mimosa A tropical take on the Mimosa, with pineapple and grenadine, cracks through a winter chill.

Ingredients • 2 oz. orange juice • 1 oz. pineapple juice • 2 tbs. grenadine • brut champagne Directions Fill a champagne flute 2/3 full of the juice mixture. Top with champagne, then add grenadine.

SPIRITS • WINE • CIGARS

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14 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

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SATURDAY, JAN. 6, 10 a.m. – Post Oratorical Contest High school students prepare and speak on some aspect of the U.S. Constitution. Nine students from three area schools, Alpharetta, Chattahoochee and Innovation Academy, are scheduled to compete. Admission to this event is free.

201 Wills Road Alpharetta, GA 30009 770-475-9023 www.legion201.org

Northern Ridge announces November Eagle Scouts ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District (Cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton) is proud to announce a new class of Eagle Scouts, who completed their Eagle Board of Review Nov. 30 at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church.

From left: Gregory Borgerding, of Troop 7153, sponsored by St. Brigid Catholic Church, whose project was the design and construction of shelving units and repair/renovation of the ramps for the Pinecrest Academy Theater Department storage shed.

Connor Oneacre, Troop 51, sponsored by American Legion Post 201, whose project was the design and construction of wooden benches for the Arbor Terrace memory care unit.

Sean Collins, of Troop 27, sponsored by the Johns Creek Christian

Church, whose project was the design and construction of fountains and installation of flowering plants around the fountains, for Johns Creek Baptist Church Rushik Peddi, of Troop 2000, sponsored by Johns Creek Presbyterian Church whose project was the design and Construction of four new Outdoor Wooden Benches at the Sai Baba Temple.

Andrew Prokash, of Troop 1857, sponsored by Christ the Shepard Lutheran Church, whose project was the design and construction of an outdoor greenhouse for Webb Bridge Middle School.

Austin Song, of Troop 629, sponsored by Mt. Pisgah United Methodist Church, whose project was the design and construction of a sensory garden and trail for the courtyard at Barnwell Elementary School.

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When you’re in London and go for a tea with, whether it be your friends or family, we want it to kind of have that feel right here.

ANGELA AVERY, Co-owner of The Ginger Room 16 | Milton Herald | December 28, 2023

Ginger Room invites guests to traditional British teatime

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Ginger Room invites guests to experience a traditional British teatime in the oldest home in downtown Alpharetta.

Roswell couple Karl Walbrook and Angela Avery opened The Ginger Room in February 2021 after two years of searching for a location to expand their hit farmers market business Ginger Yums.

After COVID-19 temporarily closed the Alpharetta Farmers Market, Walbrook said their customers sought a physical location to buy Ginger Yums juice. During this process, Avery said they found the perfect spot at 61 Roswell St. The Skelton-Teasley House was built in 1856 for Dr. Oliver Skelton, a local physician and the city’s first postmaster, and his wife.

“I think it all worked out divinely because space-wise, being the oldest home, it has that character and charm that we wanted,” Avery said.

At The Ginger Room, guests can enjoy a traditional afternoon or high tea, with a choice from more than 50 blends, finger foods, pastries and fresh scones baked daily, with clotted cream and jam.

On weekdays, The Ginger Room offers its a la carte menu, where guests can sample individual items without a reservation for afternoon or high tea.

But, above all, Avery said the tea house invites its patrons to experience an intimate, unique experience.

“When you're in London and go for a tea with, whether it be your friends or family, we want it to kind of have that feel right here,” she said.

A love of ginger Around 2018, Avery and Walbrook founded Ginger Yums, which promotes the natural benefits of ginger through a variety of fresh juices.

The couple began selling Ginger Yums at the Alpharetta Farmers Market in 2019 to immediate success. The brand has since expanded to five markets across Metro Atlanta and a new sip room at 8465 Holcomb Bridge Road in Johns Creek.

The pandemic may have paused business at the farmers market, but the demand for Ginger Yums never

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

Angela Avery and Karl Walbrook smile outside The Ginger Room at 61 Roswell St. in Alpharetta Dec. 19. The couple co-own the authentic British tea house, which opened in the historic Skelton-Teasley House in February 2021. ceased.

“Our customers, they wanted a place to come and get their juice, but we were like, ‘Well, we don't want to just do

See GINGER, Page 17

More online

More information on reservations and menus can be found at the-gingerroom.com.

Women Excelling Scholarship Luncheon Thursday, January 25th, 2024 11:30 AM – 1PM Atlanta National Golf Club 350 Tournament Players Dr. Milton, GA 30004

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BUSINESSPOSTS

Ginger: Continued from Page 16 a juice bar,’” Avery said. “We were like, ‘We want to do a juice and tea house, something really, really cool.’ We love tea houses, and we love experiences.”

Avery and Walbrook, a London native, said they enjoyed hosting holiday high tea for their friends and family before they conceived the business.

Their mutual love for hosting teatime, as well as the demand from their farmers market clientele, inspired The Ginger Room.

“Well, I said, what I want to do as well is have an authentic tea house, so we could do our afternoon teas here,” Walbrook said.

Now in its second year of business, The Ginger Room has been named among the state’s nine best tea rooms by Explore Georgia and sees visitors from across the United States.

An authentic experience There are formal three teatime options at The Ginger Room: afternoon, high and children’s tea.

Each variation is served on a traditional three-tiered tower, with the bottom level including a selection of finger sandwiches such as English egg salad and smoked pimento cheese.

The second level features handmade scones from Walbrook’s recipe from his days in grammar school.

“We make those scones fresh each and every day for our towers and for our guests who pop in,” Avery said.

“And then you have fresh clotted cream made in house, and then you have your jams as well. We usually do strawberry, lemon curd and ginger, of course, because

AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 28, 2023 | 17

we're in The Ginger Room.”

Avery said the top level, which highlights a rotating selection of specialty treats, is mostly sourced from local vendors at farmers markets.

The towers feature The Ginger Room’s exclusive ginger mini donuts from Orchard Bakery; English shortbread crown cookies from Angel Lane in Cumming; and teacup and teapot cookies from a bakery in Vinings.

Some desserts, such as Bakewell tarts and truffles, are baked in-house by Walbrook.

Although the expansion of their ginger-based businesses has kept them busy, the couple still stop by The Ginger Room frequently, especially on weekends. Since many of the recipes originated from Walbrook’s expertise, he is often found in the kitchen or greeting guests.

“He still makes every shepherd's pie,” Avery said.

“He's trained them really good on the scones, so you can't tell if he made them or one of the kitchen staff made them because they're perfect now.”

Guests can also order high tea, which is an elevated version of afternoon tea with hot savory items such as shepherd’s pie, tomato pie, quiche Lorraine or croissant sandwiches. Based on request and availability, Walbrook also cooks his chef’s special, salmon en croute.

Children’s tea is a simplified version of afternoon tea for visitors 10 years old and younger.

Although afternoon and high tea can be served at any sitting time, The Ginger Room seats guests for tea between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on weekdays and at 12:30 and 3 p.m. on weekends.

Individual items can be served a la carte throughout the week, but Avery recommends making a reservation for any experience at The Ginger Room.

“Everyone is truly welcome,” Avery said. “And we really want everyone to come and experience The Ginger Room.”

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The Skelton-Teasley House at 61 Roswell St. in Alpharetta was built in 1856 for local physician and postmaster Dr. Oliver Skelton.

A table is set for tea for two at The Ginger Room at 61 Roswell St. in Alpharetta Dec. 19. Guests can sample the business’s a la carte menu or enjoy a traditional afternoon or high tea during set times on weekdays and weekends.

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Young innovator Heman Bekele recently won 3M’s Young Scientist Challenge by creating a bar of soap that might be able to treat skin cancer. Starting out, he wanted to invent a treatment for skin cancer that could be used in developing countries. Such a treatment would need to be inexpensive and stable outside of air-conditioned environments. He wondered if medicated soap could fit the bill.

Heman’s soap combines four ingredients: salicylic acid, glycolic acid, tretinoin and a medication called imidazoquinoline. Tretinoin is commonly known as Retin-A® and is the main ingredient in many anti-acne and anti-wrinkle creams. Salicyclic acid and glycolic acid are common antiwart treatments. Together, tretinoin, salicyclic acid and glycolic acid can disrupt a person’s skin barrier so that other medicines can better penetrate the skin. This strategy could allow imidazoquinoline to better enter the skin and perform its job.

Imidazoquinoline is an activator or “agonist” of toll like receptor (TLR) number 7. TLR’s are a family of proteins on the surface of many cells of our immune system. When these proteins are activated, the immune system becomes more active.

TLR7, the protein targeted by Heman Bekele’s soap, is normally activated by certain viruses. TLR7 stimulates a part of the immune system that is important for fighting infections and cancer. Given that some skin diseases such as HPV-related squamous cell carcinoma are both an infection and a cancer, targeting TLR7 has been a winning strategy for fighting certain cancers. In fact, Aldara® (generic name “imiquimod”) is a toll like receptor 7 agonist (activator) that has been FDA approved since 1997 and is used for the treatment of superficial basal cell skin cancers, certain types of warts, and pre-cancers called actinic keratoses. Aldara®’s clearance rates for superficial basal cell carcinoma are reasonable at approximately 75%.

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Unfortunately, Aldara® is known to be a relatively fragile cream. It is supplied in boxes of 12 or 24 singleuse packets. Common wisdom is that a partially used packet may be refrigerated overnight and used the next day. However, the package insert says that they are single use and must be stored at 39 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit and should not be frozen. These restrictions are reasonable in the United States but are not conducive to use in developing countries without access to refrigeration and temperature-controlled transportation.

Heman Bekele’s soap could be ground-breaking if clinical trials take place and if they prove that imidazoquinoline can stand up to acids, heat, cold, water and repetitive use. Furthermore, potency with short application time might be an issue – how long would someone need to leave the soap on their skin for it to work? If successful, a hardy soap could be a useful vehicle as a topical cancer treatment.

His research is likely at an early stage, but regardless, it is encouraging to read about young innovators problemsolving, thinking globally and trying to make the world a better place. Congratulations Heman!

We hope that you enjoyed this article. If you or a loved one has skin cancer or any dermatologic or aesthetic need, please consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta.

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Strong local news means a strong local economy Read at appenmedia.com/business

Healing together: understanding and supporting those with PTSD

By Alexa Mellman, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Summit Counseling Center Understanding the far-reaching impacts of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is crucial for both those directly affected by it and their support networks.

When a person experiences trauma (through experiences such as military combat, accidents, abuse, or assault), their body releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. In individuals with PTSD, this stress response can become dysregulated, resulting in disproportionate reactions even in safe situations. PTSD’s effects on the brain can lead to heightened alertness or edginess, sleep issues, difficulty controlling emotions, and more. Beyond mental health, PTSD affects the body, increasing the risk of health issues including heart problems, immune and stomach issues,

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and chronic pain.

Understanding the biological effects of PTSD can help loved ones provide appropriate support. Here are a few additional tips if your loved one is experiencing PTSD: • Practice open communication.

Assure your loved one you're ready to listen when they're ready, and try to remember that it's often not personal when someone suffering with PTSD lashes out or becomes depressed (setting boundaries where necessary).

• Prioritize self-care and seek support if needed. Engage in activities that promote your well-being, allowing you to be more resilient and supportive to your loved one.

• Encourage your loved one to seek professional help from mental health experts who specialize in trauma and PTSD. For expert assistance and guidance, consider reaching out to Summit Counseling Center at summitcounseling. org.

20 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

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22 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

Calendar

DEC. 28 — JAN. 7

ELLA BETH AT THE VELVET NOTE

What: Ella Beth, an Australian jazzsoul singer/songwriter and previous finalist on The Voice Vietnam, will perform.

When: Friday, Dec. 29, 7:30 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.

Where: The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta Cost: $39 More info: thevelvetnote.com

NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH THE ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

What: Make unforgettable memories with a concert of favorites by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

The program includes the “Waltz” from Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake,” Mendelssohn’s “Nocturne” from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Rossini’s “Overture” from “La gazza ladra,” Offenbach’s “Can-Can” and Strauss waltzes.

When: Sunday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m.

Where: Byers Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs Cost: Starting at $53.50 More info: sandyspringsga.gov

NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH THE ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

What: Make unforgettable memories with a concert of favorites by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. The program includes the “Waltz” from Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake,” Mendelssohn’s “Nocturne” from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Rossini’s “Overture” from “La gazza ladra,” Offenbach’s “Can-Can” and Strauss waltzes.

When: Sunday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m.

Where: Byers Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs Cost: Starting at $53.50 More info: sandyspringsga.gov

RING IN THE NEW

What: Ring in the new year with a party in Studio Theatre, including DJ Newk playing dancing favorites, a buffet of light bites, coffee and desserts, and a glass of sparkling beverage to toast the new year at midnight.

When: Sunday, Dec. 31, 10 p.m.

Where: Studio Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs Cost: $65 More info: sandyspringsga.gov

HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT BROOK RUN PARK

What: Holiday Lights returns for a 4th year with a self-guided walkable display.

When: Until Dec. 31, 5-10 p.m.

Where: Brook Run Park, 4770 North Peachtree Road, Dunwoody More info: dunwoodyga.gov

DECK THE SQUARE

What: Visit the historic Town Square to indulge in the holiday

spirit by checking out a display of 45 community-decorated Christmas Trees.

When: Until Jan. 2 Where: Town Square, 610 Atlanta Street, Roswell More info: roswell365.com

TOMMY STINSON AT FROM THE EARTH

What: Tommy Stinson, renowned for his role in The Replacements, will perform solo.

When: Wednesday, Jan. 3, 7 p.m.

Where: From the Earth Brewing Company, 1570 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell Cost: $25 More info: ftebrewing.com

PUPPET PALOOZA SATURDAYS

What: Stage Door Theatre is teaming

FEATURE YOUR EVENT ONLINE AND IN PRINT! It’s even easier now than ever to promote your event to hundreds of thousands of people, whether online, through our newsletters or in the Crier and Herald newspapers.

up with Piccadilly Puppets for a Saturday morning puppet show, one of five for the season.

When: Saturday, Jan. 6, 10:3011:15 a.m.

Where: Stage Door Theatre, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody Cost: $10 More: stagedoortheatrega.org

EXPLORING THE FREEDOM OF WHOLENESS

What: Fredrika Mele Stillwater Scruggs, a healing arts practitioner, will lead a free event about selfhealing.

When: Sunday, Jan. 7, 11:15 a.m.

Where: Fredrika Healing Art Practitioner, 11420 Crabapple Road, Roswell More info: fredrikahealing.com

To promote your event, follow these easy steps:

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TONY THOMAS: ‘SCENES FROM MY TRAVELS’

What: See original drawings and paintings by local artist Tony Thomas, including of the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, Multnomah Falls and Devils Tower National Monument.

When: Until Jan. 12, business hours Where: Community Gallery at City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us

PORTRAIT SOCIETY OF ATLANTA EXHIBITION

What: The Portrait Society of Atlanta presents its annual member exhibition.

When: Until Jan. 20, business hours Where: Alpharetta Arts Center, 238 Canton Street, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us

Visit AppenMedia.com/Calendar Provide the details for your event including title, description, location and date Click the red button that reads “Create event” That’s it! Submissions are free, though there are paid opportunities to promote your event in print and online.

PRESERVING THE PAST

OPINION

AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 28, 2023 | 23

Frank Dailey − Alpharetta resident and war hero Since starting my weekly column on local history for Appen Media nearly two years ago, I have met many noteworthy and fascinating individuals who have contributed much to the North Fulton story.

BOB MEYERS One overly modest Columnist Alpharetta resident stands out in my mind as being worthy of special attention. At 102 years of age, Franklyn Dailey is one of the few remaining members of the Greatest Generation of World War ll combat veterans.

He is living proof of the adage that age is just a number. His mind is sharp, he lives alone and gets around with or without a walker. He has a wonderful story to tell.

Born of Irish descent Feb. 5, 1921 in Brockport, a village near Rochester, New York, Daily was a teenager when the worst of the Great Depression panicked the nation. A gifted student, he had the good fortune of attending Catholic schools, graduating from high school with a near 4-point average at the age of 14. He then worked briefly at Eastman Kodak Company until he enrolled in Niagara University where he remained until Caroline O’Day, Congresswoman at Large for New York State, nominated him in 1939 for appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis. Daily graduated from the academy as an honor student in 1942 in the first accelerated three-year class of World War ll.

Dailey served as the gunnery officer aboard the USS Edison, a Gleaves-class destroyer, one of 66 destroyers of that class built between 1938--42. They were still being constructed when the U.S. entered the war and were among the earliest destroyers to see action. Dailey was one of 16 officers and 260 enlisted men on the ship. Later in the war the upgraded Fletcher Class destroyer was introduced. Most Annapolis graduates were assigned as gunnery officers because of their extensive training. Civilian sailors were assigned to navigation and seamanship tasks, according to Dailey.

Gleaves class destroyers had four 5-inch 38 caliber guns. The gun could shoot a 55-pound projectile 18,000 yards and was a workhorse weapon throughout the war. The Edison patrolled the Atlantic Ocean protecting commercial shipping from German air, sea and submarine attacks and took part in five major landing operations, Casablanca, Sicily, Anzio, Salerno and southern France, all part of a plan leading to the invasion of Normandy in June

FAMILY PROVIDED

Frank and Peggy Dailey were married in 1944 in St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Here they are at a party given for Frank in the 1940s in New York.

U.S. NAVY

The USS Edison was the first warship in WW Il named after inventor Thomas Alva Edison, who received the Navy’s Distinguished Service Medal for his contributions to the Navy during WW l. The ship escorted merchant and other ships transiting the Atlantic and provided support to troops during WW ll invasions in Europe. The ship was launched in November 1940 and commissioned in January 1941. Frank Dailey was gunnery officer aboard the ship following his graduation with honors from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis.

BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA

Frank Dailey at home in Alpharetta. Frank is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis and served aboard the destroyer USS Edison in World War ll. He is the author of three books.

1944. The objective of Dailey’s ship was to support infantry landings by destroying German defensive guns.

The Battle of Anzio was the most difficult of the five landings, says Dailey. It took place between January and June 1944 when some 50,000 Allied troops staged an amphibious landing about 30 miles south of Rome near the town of Anzio. The Joint U.S.--Royal Navy Task Force 81 included some 400 ships of all kinds, including 28 destroyers to support the landings. Following the initial invasion, the Germans counterattacked and forced larger ships to move farther offshore, increasing the pressure on the

smaller, more nimble destroyers. The Edison provided fire support to troops on the beachhead and escorted cargo ships and transports bringing supplies to the beachhead. The Allies prevailed at a high cost. American casualties in the Anzio battle amounted to 24,000 killed and wounded plus thousands of cases of malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases common in the marshes close to the beachhead.

While in the Navy Frank undertook flight training in Pensacola on multiengine aircraft and obtained his wings in 1945. After training, he was assigned to a squadron based in Kodiak Alaska where he was a co-pilot. Later he flew missions as a pilot in the Aleutian Islands in a Lockheed P2V Neptune aircraft monitoring enemy radio transmissions and submarines. He spent more than 20 years in the Navy, and was active in the Naval Air Reserve for 20 years after the war where he commanded a squadron and advanced to Captain.

On April 1 1944, Frank married Marguerite Virginia Parker (1920-2017) at St Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.

Known as Peggy, she and Frank had eight

children, 18 grandchildren, 23 greatgrandchildren and two great great-grandchildren. Several years ago, they moved to Alpharetta to be near some of their children who live in town and surrounding communities.

Frank is the author of three books, all of which are available on Amazon. “My Times with the Sisters and Other Events,” published in 2000, is a personal story of growing up as a student in Catholic schools. “The Triumph of Instrument Flight: A Retrospective in the Century of U.S. Aviation” was published in 2004 and “A Destroyer’s Role in World War II Naval Convoys and Invasion Landings” was published in 2009. He still maintains a website with additional stories, www. daileyint.com.

Frank Dailey is a warrior hero who deserves a prominent place in our local history.

Bob is director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission. You can email him at bobmey@ bellsouth.net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.

24 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

GARDEN BUZZ

OPINION

The what, why and how of composting Would you like a garden that requires less labor, produces stronger and healthier plants with less chemicals and other pest management treatments, and uses less water and fertilizer? If so, you GEORGE SCESNEY need to change the Guest Columnist fertility and physical condition of your soil from the natural hard pack Georgia red clay (commonly known as "dirt") to a wonderfully loose crumbly lightweight bio-system known as "soil"—full of the microorganisms that assist all our plants to thrive. To do this, we must add compost, a soil conditioner and wonder food for these microorganisms that create the soil bio-system.

What is compost? It is nothing more than organic matter – leaves, grass trimmings, kitchen peelings, shredded paper and chopped up plants that assist microorganisms to "eat." Compost is made by mixing organic matter together in an optimum ratio of four parts carbon sources (leaves, grass clippings paper, cardboard) to one part nitrogen sources (kitchen peelings,) chopping it all up into small particles, wetting it down to provide water for the microorganisms that come from the small amount of soil we add, and putting it into a pile big enough to retain the heat generated by the growth of the microorganisms (heat helps speed the process along). Flipping the pile every couple of weeks helps speed the decomposition of the organic matter into a loose, crumbly, earthy-smelling material we call compost.

How does compost do all these great things for our garden? First, as a soil conditioner, its small particles break up hard pack clay when mixed in, either by the action of earthworms or by the actions of humans with tools. Clay particles are like little plates that can pack tightly together.

Compost particles, once they get between these "plates," keep open spaces between them, allowing air and water (up to 50% by volume) to freely enter and leave. The increased air space allows more water to penetrate deeper into the soil, reducing the evaporation that would happen if it were on the surface. These air spaces also get more water to the root zone of the plant for its use. And since water heats/cools more slowly than soil, the added water reduces the temperature swings in the soil that are harmful to

Homemade compost bins.

AARON HABER/FLICKR.COM

Learn more

• Composting and Mulching https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.ht ml?number=C816&title=composting-and-mulching • Composting: Recycling Landscape Trimmings https://extension.uga.edu/ publications/detail.html?number=C981&title=composting-recycling-landscapetrimmings • Composting for Kids https://extension.uga.edu/content/dam/extension-county-offices/jeff-daviscounty/4h/Composting%20with%20Kids.pdf

About the author This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Roswell resident George Scesney. George has been a Master Gardener since 2008 and has been gardening for over 50 years. George enjoys doing his own composting, landscaping and vegetable gardening, including growing food for the local food bank. Originally from New York, he has been in Georgia since 1976 and has mastered the art of gardening in the south. plant growth.

But more importantly, compost, as the remnants of the food microorganisms have eaten to grow and reproduce, contains many of the minerals that plants need. As they feed on and break down the organic matter, the microorganisms release carbon and nitrogen – two major minerals required by plants. In addition, the weak acids produced by the microorgan-

isms by feeding on the organic matter help break down sand, rock and clay, releasing many other required minerals. Further, all of these minerals are changed from their solid forms into simpler forms of ions in a water-based solution, which is the only way plants can take them in through their root systems.

So, compost is a good way to have a healthy, productive, low-labor

garden. It is up to you to decide how much compost you want and the scale, effort and science you want to invest to reach healthy soil.

There are many ways to scale your composting needs: a two-gallon compost container that sits on your kitchen counter, a five-gallon container that fits under your sink or lives in the garage, tumblers that reside outside from 5 to 20 gallons, and bins made of wood or wire that can be any size you need depending on how much raw material you have. Or you can go low tech and simply put the organic matter on your garden surface and cover it with soil.

You can mix the organic matter in small to large batches; you can turn it regularly or tumble it daily to speed the process, or go low tech and put it on the ground, cover it with soil and let nature do the job. The more work you do, the faster the result.

You can mix organic matter in precise carbon/nitrogen ratios, monitor its breakdown by tracking temperatures, adjust the results by varying raw materials, or just go low tech and pile it up and let it rot at a slower pace.

There can be as little or as much scale, effort and science in your compost production as you want. All of the details about composting are readily available in the UGA Publications cited in the resources, but here is the important thing - organic matter feeds the microorganisms that create the compost and the soil bio-system that depends on the compost. If you stop feeding these microorganisms, the soil bio-system and its benefits slowly deteriorate along with the garden that depends on it. To learn more about the value of compost for your garden, the steps involved in making compost at home, and how to best use it in your garden, check out “Composting at Home”, my presentation on the NFMG YouTube channel at https:// youtu.be/WumXZnvo9aM. Happy composting!

North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.

Learn more at nfmg.net. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at https://appenmedia.com/opinion/columnists/garden_buzz/.

OPINION

PAST TENSE

AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 28, 2023 | 25

Searching for the path of the Roswell Railroad In the mid-1990s, Jim Perkins was riding around Chamblee looking for where the Roswell Railroad might have crossed Nancy Creek. In “The Story of Dunwoody,”

by Elizabeth L. Davis VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF and Ethel W. Spruill, he read that a trestle Columnist bridge still stood at Nancy Creek on the property of Dr. and Mrs. Schreeder on Chamblee Dunwoody Road near Chamblee United Methodist Church. The trestle is described as covered in kudzu and 20 feet high.

In search of the path for Buck and Dinkey on Roswell Railroad Jim Perkins wrote the Past Tense column for the Dunwoody Crier for several years before passing the baton to me in 2006 due to health issues. We met several times to talk history and he shared his stories, history books and other resources.

While looking for railroad or trestle remains, Perkins saw Gordon Wallace riding a tractor and cutting the grass of Chamblee Methodist near Nancy Creek. Perkins walked over and approached Wallace to ask if he knew anyone who had lived in the area for a long time. Wallace answered “Well, I’m 88 years old and I was born here.

I guess I could talk to you.”

PHOTO FROM COLLECTION OF KEN ANDERSON

From 1881 until 1921, the engine Buck of the Roswell Railroad traveled from Chamblee through Dunwoody to just south of the Chattahoochee River near Roswell.

Wallace was a descendant of the family that owned the land where Fischer Mansion, D’Youville Condominiums and Chamblee Methodist are located. The early Wallace family owned a sawmill on Nancy Creek. They made and sold furniture.

Gordon Wallace told Perkins he remembered the railroad coming downhill from Chamblee. The tracks came through where Chamblee Plaza is today, through Huntley Hills, and across the property of Chamblee United Methodist Church.

Perkins recalled seeing a railroad structure from the bridge across the creek which connected to the patio of Dr. Schreeder’s

home. Schreeder’s home was later demolished for new development. Perkins also saw railroad supports at Little Nancy Creek in Huntley Hills.

From there, the train went up toward I-285. It crossed through what became the Gainsborough neighborhood, which was where Gordon Wallace was living at the time. Perkins found a ravine in the woods behind a former Arby’s restaurant on Savoy Drive, identifying the continued path of the railroad.

The railroad went to the right of the apartments on the southwest corner where Peeler Road, N. Shallowford Road, and

Chamblee Dunwoody Road meet, according to Perkins. It passed Donaldson-Bannister Farm, crossing from the left side of Chamblee Dunwoody Road to the right side at the intersection with Buckline Crossing.

The engines of the Roswell Railroad were Buck and Dinkey.

The train tracks continued to the left of Chamblee Dunwoody Road, through the Roy Head property, past the home of Calhoun Spruill and toward the Dunwoody Depot, which sat between where CVS and Chevron are today on Chamblee Dunwoody Road.

For the train to cross Mt. Vernon, a deep cut was made in the road, which blocked off Mt. Vernon during the years the Roswell Railroad ran, 1881 to 1921. Buggy drivers and later automobiles had to take Nandina Lane to go around the intersection.

This history comes from an interview with Jim Perkins, conducted by Lynne Byrd. It can be found in the second edition of “The Story of Dunwoody, 1921-2001,” by Elizabeth L. Davis, Ethel W. Spruill, Joyce Amacher and Lynne Byrd.

Award-winning author Valerie Biggerstaff is a longtime columnist for Appen Media and the Dunwoody Crier. She lives in Atlanta. You can email Valerie at pasttensega@gmail.com or visit her website at pasttensega.com.

THE INK PENN

Take your choice — scenic Wales or coastal Maine

KATHY MANOS PENN Columnist

“When I read a good book, it’s like traveling the world without ever leaving my chair.” That quote from Richard Peck perfectly fits this week’s books, one set in Wales and the other on the coast of Maine.

“Murder in the Valleys” by Pippa McCathie This is my first Pippa McCathie mystery, and I am so glad I found it. I downloaded her boxset, and I'm looking forward to books 2 & 3 in the series. Fabia Havard and Matt Lambert are the leads, and I particularly like how McCathie allows their back stories to unfold slowly. You know that Fabia took a lengthy sick leave from the police department and has now retired, but something isn't quite right about the situation.

The whys and wherefores come in bits as the book progresses, as do the details about her relationship with Matt Lambert,

a close colleague who is now a DCI. Meanwhile, Matt is investigating the murder of a young girl.

Not only did the story have plenty of twists and turns, the descriptions of the countryside in Wales transported me across the pond. I could easily imagine the river, the mountains in the distance, the village, and the church. If you want to be engrossed in a mystery with well-developed characters and descriptions that bring the setting to life, this book's for you.

“The Spy Coast” by Tess Gerritsen You may recall Tess Gerritsen as the author of the Rizzoli & Isles mysteries, which were turned into a TNT series. I thoroughly enjoyed the show, but I never read the books. It’s her medical thriller, “Harvest,” that sticks out in my mind. Now, the author has turned her attention to a spy thriller.

The seaside village of Purity, Maine is home to a group of government retirees, but don’t expect needlepoint and knitting from this gang of former CIA operatives.

Unlike the characters in the Thursday

Murder Club mysteries, these retirees have no interest in chasing killers and solving crimes—until their past comes calling.

Maggie Bird, the main character, is happy raising her chickens and chasing off the occasional fox. Haunted by memories of her last mission and what it cost her, revisiting the career that took her around the globe is something she wants to avoid.

When a dead body shows up in her driveway, though, she is forced into action.

The local police are called in to investigate and soon the state police join in too. And, of course, the authorities are always one step behind the former spies.

The last thing they are going to do is share information with the police. Do they know who’s responsible? No, but they have a few candidates in mind. Will Maggie go on the run? Not if she can help it. She and her friends, who’ve dubbed themselves “The Martini Club,” employ their wellhoned skills and call in favors from their old network. Identifying the puppet master will require all their combined skills. Not only must Maggie fend off questions from Jo Thibodeau, the local police chief, she’s

now involved in an international search.

The shift between the past and the present will keep you guessing, and you’ll be glad to know it’s labeled “The Martini Club Book I.” A second book is already listed on Amazon, though it won’t be published until 2025. Meanwhile, Book I has been optioned by Amazon Studios for a television series.

I visited Bangkok, Istanbul, and London in this book, and I can’t wait to see where the next one will take me. Until then, I may return to the lush green scenery of Wales in the Pippa McCathie series.

But first, I need to tear myself away from the Australian outback in the latest book I’m reading. Stay tuned. I’m sure I’ll write about that one soon.

Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her cozy mysteries on Amazon or locally at The Enchanted Forest, Bookmiser, Tall Tales, and Johns Creek Books. Contact her at inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www.facebook.com/KathyManosPennAuthor/.

26 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

OPINION

Christmas 2023 − Letter from Ray Appen Well. Well, what?

Been a very hard year in too many ways with too many people we loved. But there was some good as well.

I never cease to be surprised when ideas, experiences, or RAY APPEN things you read years Publisher Emeritus ago return from the back side of memory after having been lost for so long. Like the dark side of the moon – always unseen, until there is light – and then boom, back front and center, so close you can touch it: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.”

Charles Dickens, “A Tale of Two Cities” – 1859. (10th grade literature class) One problem of growing old is memory. I may have used Dickens in a prior Christmas letter; I suspect this.

Hmmmm. Apologies if I did. Things don’t seem to have changed much since 1859 though, have they?

That one sentence covers a lot of ground – like miles and miles perhaps. It will suffice as a multi-faceted description of 2023. I will however, side with just one part of the description – “seasons” – “season of light” as well as “spring of hope.” The rest of the description does fit but we must pick our battles, which mountains we want to climb or the destinations to pursue.

I choose “light.”

Our children brought light to us this year as they almost always do. If we can’t find light with them, where can we find it?

All three of our kids and our three grandchildren live close to us now and shared a ton of time with us this year – here in Alpharetta and on Dog Island.

We get to participate in their story often – priceless.

Time and light. Time and light. Time – the only true constant. What we do with it; how we use it; who we help with it; what picture we paint with it; what images we create and then see in the mirror, we can only see with light. Our reflection in the mirror is only darkness without light.

If we are not using our time wisely – to nurture our soul, to feed it and sustain it – what are we thinking?

Early this morning before the day

starts, I sit next to our Christmas tree, full of light and ornaments as I ponder 2023. Many of the ornaments are minipicture frames with photos of us and our kids from a long time ago – memories – memories hanging from wire hooks in a field of green and wrapped in scent. If I close my eyes, I can time-travel back; it doesn’t take much. If I open my eyes, I see the light – symbols of hope for the future. We have a Douglas fir this year.

I think next year we will buy a live tree so we can plant it after the season.

Why haven’t we done that before?

My writing chair next to our Douglas fir is in front of several large windows. Outside, a stand of old growth trees – which is our backyard – has almost finished shedding its leaves. A few burnt orange, yellow and brown leaves remain and tremble in the getting-colder-by-the-hour wind, then fall randomly and unhurriedly float to the ground to start to become soil again. Like watching time pass, minute by minute in the form of falling leaves.

Wasn’t it just yesterday we were so excited to see those same trees starting to bud?

Memory of the past and what is “memory of the future?” We cling to what we know, to what has made us happy, to what made us feel safe, secure and loved. We watch it, nurture it, seek it, covet it, guard it, embrace it, until, until it begins to slip away just outside of our grasp, like the shadow of a train passing farther and farther away from us down a track until it disappears completely, out of sight, from light into darkness.

But if we slow down enough, we can find an even richer, more secure place in-between the past and the future – here, now, in this very moment – a place which can produce all the light and hope we need for tomorrow.

Christina and I, along with Amelia and a friend went to see a play, “Annie,” last night at the Fox Theater. The Fox is magical. It is a restored historic theater in downtown Atlanta on Peachtree Street, a theater that Marga-

Know all humans that the vessel / trust / estate / widely held fixed investment trust, known as KEVIN DERRICK BROWN, identified by the numbers 110-88-054625, is in contract with BROWN FAMILY RVOC TR 12182023 as surety. This vessel is not abandoned and has been liened, levied, salvaged and claimed by BROWN FAMILY RVOC TR 12182023, who is the entitlement holder of this trust estate.

ret Mitchell might have attended while she was writing “Gone with the Wind” in the ’30s. The Fox opened on Dec. 25, 1929 – Christmas Day – just two months after the stock market crash and the start of the Great Depression.

Just sitting in the Fox and experiencing it is worth the trip. It is a living, breathing, tribute to humanity – something we almost lost years ago – something we magically created and something we collectively saved from the wrecker’s ball. “Save the Fox” was a sign I’ll always remember that hung on a wall in my friend Bill Greenwood’s restaurant, a really old sign.

We need to do more stuff like that – work together to build – to save and preserve things that give our lives meaning and light – things that nurture our souls.

And how ironic that we saw “Annie” at the Fox – in December no less. “Annie” was set during the depth of the Great Depression and portrays the misery and hopelessness that so many people experienced in those dark days. But it was not

a play about giving up; it was about hope – and light – something we desperately need today.

In “Annie,” orphan children were rescued. The good guys won. The bad guys lost. Love prevailed and darkness and despair turned to light and hope.

I suspect that no one felt the chill in the air as they left the Fox last night.

Instead, they felt warm, happy, safe and secure if only for a few precious magic moments.

Paraphrased below are a few of the lyrics from “Annie” which should give us all hope and comfort this Christmas season and into 2024.

Tomorrow, tomorrow The sun’ll come out tomorrow Tomorrow, You’re always A day away!

Merry Christmas to all of you with hope, light, and best wishes.

— The Appens

City of Milton PUBLIC NOTICE OF SALE OF PROPERTY PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that the City of Milton will offer the following property for sale at auction beginning Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. and the final auction ending Thursday, January 25, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. Full property descriptions, as well as the bidding process, will be available through the City's website's home page at www.miltonga.gov by following the link provided for www.GovDeals.com.

Fire Apparatus: 2007 Pierce Enforcer The buyer will have up to 5 business days to pay with exact cash, money order, or cashier's check and 10 business days to remove the apparatus. The apparatus will be available for inspection, by appointment only, at 750 Hickory Flat Rd, Milton GA 30004. Please direct all inquiries to mark.stephens@miltonga.gov Invitation to Bid Bethany Bend Traffic and Pedestrian Improvements ITB NUMBER 24-PW03 Sealed Bids Due Date: January 17, 2024 by 2:00 PM Local Time Electronic submission via: www.miltonga.gov Submissions will be publicly announced on the above date at approximately 2:30 PM at the City of Milton City Hall located at 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, GA 30004 (opening may be moved online due to public health conditions). The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids. If the contract is awarded, it will be awarded to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder whose bid meets the requirements and criteria set forth in the invitation for bids.

The City of Milton is requesting bids from interested parties for the Bethany Bend Traffic and Pedestrian Improvements project. All qualified bids will receive consideration without regard to age, handicap, religion, creed or belief, political affiliation, race, color, sex, or national origin.

The request for sealed bids for the Bethany Bend Traffic and Pedestrian Improvements project will be posted on the following websites the week of December 21, 2023. http://www.miltonga.gov and http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR_index.jsp

Council: Continued from Page 4 The council voted to defer the item to the City Council meeting Jan. 17, to allow time for the property owners to sign the contract before going back before the council.

Design Review Board In a split vote, the City Council approved a text amendment that would allow councilmembers to appoint Design Review Board members at-large, rather than by council district. Councilmembers Paul Moore, Jan Jacobus and Rick Mohrig cast the dissenting votes.

“When you're talking about demolition, you’re talking about the look and feel of the area and understanding that part of the community — I think we’re best served if the individuals live within the district, so it’s a bit closer to home,” Moore said.

The City Council has historically appointed DRB members from within their district, but Zoning Manager Robyn MacDonald mentioned a few cases where members were appointed at-large.

“Getting the best, in this particular case, because design could be a very interesting skill set … To me, that trumps just having to find somebody in your district,” Councilwoman Carol Cookerly

AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 28, 2023 | 27

said. “I just want the best and the brightest in this particular one.”

While the council voted to allow atlarge appointments, councilmembers will still be able to appoint DRB members from within their district.

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Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Wayne Shaffer, 95, of Roswell, passed away on December 18, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

George Wilson, Jr., 82, of Milton, passed away on December 14, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

2023 Year End Report – City of Milton 2021 Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST II) Pursuant to Senate Bill 369, Section 48-8-269-6 the following chart represents the 2023 annual non-technical report on financial status of each Tier 1 purpose/program. This report represents the period from October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2023.

Tier 1 Original Current Amount Amount Amount Purpose/ Estimated Estimated Expended in Contracted in Expended in Programs Cost Cost Prior Years Fiscal Year 2023 Fiscal Year 2023 ----------------------------------- ------------------------- ------------------------- ----------------------- -------------------------- ------------------------Operations/Safety $11,000,000 $11,000,000 $0 $263,865 $164,144 Pedestrian/Bike $6,000,000 $6,000,000 $12,403 $541,293 $16,622 Bridges $4,000,000 $4,000,000 $0 $49,500 $32,500 Maintenance/Safety $8,000,000 $8,000,000 $0 $43,880 $43,880 Quick Response $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $0 $0 $0 Program Management $657,809 $657,809 $0 $279,945 $60,036 Tier 1 Total Costs $30,657,809 $30,657,809 $12,403 $1,178,484 $317,182 Operations/Safety – $263,865 · Cox Road Intersection Improvements – Design · Webb Road at Cogburn Road – Design · Bethany Bend Mini Roundabout - Design Pedestrian/Bike Improvements – $541,293 · Bethany Bend Pedestrian Crossing – Design · SR 372 RRFBs – Design · Deerfield Area Sidewalks – Construction Bridges – $49,500 · Bridge Maintenance/Repair Plans (Multiple locations) – Design Maintenance/Safety – $43,880 · Guardrail Improvements (City-wide) – Design Program Management – $279,945 · Milton Comprehensive Transportation Plan – Planning

28 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

Office Space for Lease Close to Downtown Alpharetta 2023 Year End Report – City of Milton 2016 Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST I) Pursuant to Senate Bill 369, Section 48-8-269-6 the following chart represents the 2023 annual non-technical report on financial status of each Tier 1 & 2 purpose/program. This report represents the period from October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2023.

Tier 1 & 2 Original Current Amount Amount Amount Purpose/ Estimated Estimated Expended in Contracted in Expended in Programs Cost Cost Prior Years Fiscal Year 2023* Fiscal Year 2023 ------------------------------------- ----------------------- ----------------------- ------------------------- -------------------------- ------------------------Congestion Relief $9,540,000 $11,329,153 $4,027,856 $1,322,389 $1,125,054 Bridges $1,610,000 $1,610,000 $76,192 $132,814 $54,841 Operations/Safety $16,900,000 $16,900,000 $7,488,853 $3,669,133 $1,565,988 Pedestrian/Bike $3,372,490 $3,372,490 $424,973 $1,429,066 $663,242 Program Management $750,000 $750,000 $606,501 $53,111 $53,111 Tier 1 & 2 Total Costs $32,172,490 $33,961,643 $12,624,375 $6,606,513 $3,462,236 Congestion Relief – $1,322,389 · Morris Road Widening: Phase II – Design, ROW

Small private office space (unfurnished) available in Appen Media Office close to Downtown Alpharetta (319 North Main Street, Alpharetta). All utilities included, Internet included (within reason), 24/7 access. Space is upstairs in area of Appen Newsroom. Private, quiet, and open. Approximately 200 sq. ft. (14’ x 14’). $/600 per month, first/ last/security deposit required as well as solid reliable references.

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Operations/Safety – $3,669,133 · Freemanville Road at Redd Road – Design · Bethany Road at Providence Road – Design, ROW · SR 140 at Green Road – Design · Hopewell Road at Bethany Bend/Way – Construction · Freemanville Road at Birmingham Road – ROW, Construction · Hopewell Road at Thompson Road – Construction Bridges - $132,814 · Birmingham Middle Bridge – Design, ROW Program Management - $53,111 · Project Management Scope of Contracted Work: Program Management, ROW, Construction, Engineering, and Inspection Pedestrian/Bike Improvements - $1,429,066 · Mayfield Road Sidewalk – Construction · Trail Connector to Big Creek Greenway – Design, ROW *Contracted figures do not include actual Right of Way (ROW) property purchases.

CITY OF MILTON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE RZ23-07 - Consideration of a text amendment to adopt a new Unified Development Code that will update and replace the current zoning ordinance, as follows: An ordinance to amend the text of the Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 64 of the Code of the City of Milton, Georgia); to amend the text of other specific development, design and other sections of the Code of the City of Milton; to consolidate said other specific sections as well as the Zoning Ordinance so as to create a consolidated ordinance to be known as the Unified Development Code; to provide for an effective date; to repeal conflicting ordinances; and for other purposes.

Public Hearing:

Location:

City Council Meeting Monday, February 5, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.

Milton City Hall - Council Chambers 2006 Heritage Walk Milton, GA 30004 678-242-2540

CITY OF MILTON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR REZONING Case No. RZ23-10 Location: 3475, 3485, 3495 Bethany Bend Existing Zoning: AG-1 (Agricultural) Applicant: Arkan Homes, LLC / Ihssan Hashem Request: To rezone from AG-1 to R5-A to develop 13 single family homes on 3.133 acres.

Public Hearings:

Location:

Mayor and City Council Meeting Monday, February 5, 2024 at 6:00pm Milton City Hall - Council Chambers 2006 Heritage Walk Milton, GA 30004

AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 28, 2023 | 29

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Continued from Page 3 The Greenprint, which was scheduled for adoption by the end of the year, has not yet been presented to the City Council.

Some community members had called to open the properties still closed on Hamby Road, Webb Road and the Cooper Sandy greenspace. In a November work session, Environmental Program Manager Emily Groth provided the council with estimates on what it would take to open them.

The District at Mayfield was another city project that used community input through a series of workshops intended to preserve the historic area. The district covers about 19 acres in Crabapple and includes 23 parcels with properties off Broadwell Road, Charlotte Drive, Mayfield Road and Mid Broadwell Road.

All elements of the overlay district fall under Crabapple form-based code. But, the District at Mayfield has more strict development regulations to conform to the area’s unique character.

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New fire station Milton also opened the new facility for Fire Station 42 on Thompson Road, the same location as the former Fulton County structure built in the 1970s.

The near-$5 million fire station is about double the size of the original, standing at 6,500 square feet, with two drive-thru bays, a decontamination room, a turnout gear storage room and eight bunk rooms.

In their new home away from home, Milton firefighters also have access to a flat-screen TV and cushioned reclining chairs, a spacious kitchen and a fully equipped gym.

Fire Station 45 is in the works. Construction for the 15,000-square-foot facility on Providence Road will begin next summer, scheduled for completion the following June. The fire station is projected to cost $4.8 million, according to its ClearGov webpage, but the cost could not be verified.

The facility is expected to include two pull-through bays, a decontamination room, kitchen, fitness room, bunks rooms, five offices, a community/training room and outdoor dining space.

This month, the Milton City Council approved PBK Architects as the designers for Fire Station 45. Again, the city is shooting for a farmhouse look, to be reviewed

APPE

Guests mingle at the uncoupling ceremony for Fire Station 42 Aug. 31.

Story brought to you by valued members of the Appen Press Club Appenmedia.com/join

by the Design Review Board and brought forward to the council in the next three to four months.

Also on the public safety front, the city is implementing a new residential speed zone program, which would allow enforcement of any speed greater than the posted speed limit for streets 35 mph and below.

Previously, there was a 10 mph leeway that police allowed.

Like the city’s traffic calming program, the residential speed zone program is resident-driven. An applicant, who has the authority to act on behalf of the subdivision or study area, can submit a formal request to the city, then obtain a petition of support from 67 percent of the area’s property owners.

Transportation plan After months of public outreach, the city adopted the newest iteration of its Comprehensive Transportation Plan.

Drafted in 2009 and updated in 2016, the Comprehensive Transportation Plan is

a long-range, multimodal transportation plan that assesses the city’s existing and future transportation needs. The goals of the document are to help identify priorities, establish a relationship between local and regional expectations and support other city plans.

The new plan identifies six goals to help provide a framework and establish priorities for future projects and policies, including reducing congestion along key corridors; increasing safety for all users; embracing financial stewardship; improving traffic operations at intersections; balancing mobility with consideration for community character; and enhancing infrastructure to support pedestrians, cyclists, equestrians and transit users.

The plan finalized projects on Milton’s transportation special purpose local option sales tax, or TSPLOST II, list. There are 19 projects budgeted with current funding, including five sidewalk projects, two crossing projects, nine intersection projects, one operations project and two multimodal projects.

Other projects were also identified, which predict additional funds generated from TSPLOST II and from future TSPLOST referendums.

30 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

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32 | December 28, 2023 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

HAPPY NEW YEAR from my home to yours!

As the holiday season comes to a close, I wish you and your family a bright and beautiful new year bursting with fulfilling and exciting opportunities.

It’s a privilege to be your trusted real estate professional, thank you!

Pam Gillig c. 770. 862.4408 | o. 770.284.9900 PamGillig@AnsleyRE.com 770.284.9900 | 31 CHURCH STREET, ALPHARETTA, GA 30009 | ANSLEYRE.COM Equal housing opportunity. If you have an existing brokerage relationship, this is not intended as a solicitation. All data believed to be accurate but not warranted.