MILTON, Ga. — The Milton Trails Advisory Committee met July 31 to discuss a future proposal to the City Council to modify a map in the Unified Development Code.
Members of the official group work with city staff to improve connectivity and promote access to nature trails.
As part of this effort, the committee is working with city engineers to modify the Milton Trails Blueprint, a document which shows existing and planned segments of the city’s path network.
First created in 2017 with KimleyHorn consultants, the committee is now working to modify the Unified Development Code for the blueprint changes.
In February, Milton looked to its residents for input on the proposed additions.
SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA
Dolan announces run for city council
By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com
MILTON, Ga. — Milton resident Brian Dolan announced that he will run for District 1 Post 1 Milton City Council seat. The position is nonpartisan.
Andrea Verhoff, who holds the seat for District 1 Post 1, announced in April that she will not seek reelection.
On his website, Dolan states that he wants to work toward eliminating crime in the city, avoid overdevelopment, respect the equestrian community and work to improve infrastructure.
Dolan currently serves as the chairperson for the Milton First Responders Foundation. The foundation is made up of civic and business leaders who volunteer to provide support to the Milton Police Department and Fire Department employees and families.
As a part of The Dolan Group, a real estate team, he serves on the Milton Business Council. The council works with the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce to support the city’s business and their owners.
See TRAILS, Page 26
Milton to set millage rate on Aug. 11
► PAGE 4
The Milton Trails Advisory Committee are looking to prioritize two segments of the modify the Milton Trails Blueprint plan, including Section E, which consists of 3,700 feet on New Providence Road from Birmingham Highway to Freemanville Road.
To learn more about Dolan’s campaign, visit dolanformilton.com.
Qualifying for the 2025 City of Milton Municipal Election will run between Monday, Aug. 18 to Friday, Aug. 22. For more information, visit www.miltonga. gov.
Sample Ballots and polling location information are available on the Georgia Secretary of State’s My Voter Page.
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86-year-old woman taken for $75,806
MILTON, Ga. — A Milton woman reported to police that she was scammed out of $75,806 in late June.
The woman, 86, stated that she received a Facebook notification June 23, instructing her to call a phone number. When she called the number, a man claiming to be a federal agent told her that they found out she purchased child pornography and would need to pay a fine to get out of trouble. The woman told police that this statement was not true.
The man on the phone instructed the woman to purchase $65,000 in gold. She purchased the gold and shipped it to her home. The man, who claimed to be a federal agent, then showed up at her apartment June 30 to collect the package.
A few moments after, another man called the woman asking for her bank information to help her get the money back. The woman realized it was a scam when she checked her bank account and found a total of $10,806 worth of unauthorized charges.
Police told the woman to contact her banks and the three main credit bureaus to report the incident.
— Sarah Coyne
Man finds gun, tequila on walk
MILTON, Ga. — A man called police after finding a shotgun on the side of Clarity Road July 23.
The man told police that he found the gun while going on walk but was unsure if it was real or not.
Police officers found the gun laying in pine straw next to the road. Police also observed an empty glass tequila bottle near the shotgun.
Police identified the shotgun as a Mossberg 500 12 gauge, with one shell and three in the magazine tube. Police ran the serial number and found no stolen returns.
The shotgun was placed into evidence at the Milton Police Department.
— Sarah Coyne
Couple loses thousands in hotel room burglary
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Sunglasses and money were reported stolen from a Webb Bridge Road hotel room July 17.
Alpharetta police said officers were dispatched to the hotel after the theft was reported.
A 34-year-old Taylorsville, Miss., woman said she and her mother returned to their room about 11 p.m. July 16 to find their door open. They had left about 2 p.m.
Two pairs of Cartier sunglasses valued at $3,900 and three pairs of gold hoop earrings valued at $3,600 were reported stolen. About $1,800 also was missing.
The woman’s mother said she noted their beds had been made, and clean towels were left by housekeeping.
Two cameras in the hallway may have recorded suspects, but hotel staff said they lacked access to them.
The incident was classified as a felony theft by taking, greater than $1,500.
— Jon Wilcox
Residents report apartment burglary during move out
ROSWELL, Ga. — A Roswell couple in the process of moving out of rental assistance housing reported a burglary July 26 at their apartment off Myrtle Street with more than $6,500 in
missing belongings.
An officer said he visited the apartment after the couple arrived to find multiple items stolen, damaged or rummaged through in the common area of the unit.
The victims, a 36-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman, told the officer that they had been moving out for two weeks and were last at the apartment three days earlier.
The allegedly stolen belongings include an Apple iMac, a PlayStation 5, a Google Chromebook, perfumes, security cameras and jewelry. The couple’s loss totals more than $6,500.
While inside the apartment, the officer said there was no visible damage to the door frame or signs of forced entry.
Because the internet was turned off and the security cameras were stolen, the officer said he had nothing further to report.
— Hayden Sumlin
Illegal dumping reported at vacant business site
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Police are investigating an alleged illegal trash dumping at a North Point Parkway property.
Alpharetta police said officers were dispatched to the vacant business about 8:45 a.m. July 19.
A 56-year-old building manager said cameras recorded two men arrive in a green or black Ford F-150 and dump numerous large objects in the nearby woods.
The items include two patio chairs, a trampoline, various pieces of metal and other objects.
Officers attempted to observe the vehicle with Flock Security cameras but failed to read the tag.
The incident was classified as a misdemeanor unlawful dumping.
The property also was the site of a reported theft of copper wiring June 26.
— Jon Wilcox
THE PICTURE FRAMER
Milton to set millage rate on Aug. 11
MILTON, Ga. — The Milton City Council will begin the millage rate adoption process early August.
The final millage rate presentation and public hearing will take place Aug. 11 at 6 p.m., immediately followed by an vote for adoption.
While the adoption of the millage rate will be for the tax year of 2025, the revenue generated will go toward the 2026 budget.
The City of Milton traditionally intertwines the millage rate hearings with the next year’s budget process to ensure the property tax levy funds the city’s spending plan.
In compliance with state-imposed deadlines, the city has tentatively adopted a property tax rate of 4.193 mills, a decrease from last year’s rate of 4.389
mills. The tentative rate can be lowered during the series of public hearings held in early August.
While state law requires the city to advertise this year’s proposed tax rate as an increase, the rollback property tax rate of 3.823 mills would generate the same amount of revenue as last year.
The proposed tax increase for a fair market value home of $925,000 is approximately $99.90. An increase of approximately $97.20 is proposed for a non-homestead property with a fair market value of $900,000.
Two public hearings will be held for the 2026 budget at 6 p.m. Sept. 3 and 15. The City Council will adopt the budget at the Sept. 15 meeting.
All meetings will be at City Hall.
— Sarah Coyne
APPEN MEDIA FILE PHOTO
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Roswell resident Leyla-Marie Bouadou promotes school bus safety July 31 at Heards Ferry Elementary in Sandy Springs for the 2025 School’s Open Drive Carefully Campaign. Leyla-Marie was named the AAA Safety Patroller of the Year after graduating from the fifth grade at River Eves Elementary School in Roswell.
County, state officials prep for school return
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
FULTON COUNTY, Ga.. — Roswell resident Leyla-Marie Bouadou, recognized as AAA Safety Patroller of the Year, has a message for drivers before Fulton County Schools students begin classes Aug. 4.
Leyla-Marie, who just finished fifth grade at River Eves Elementary School in southeast Roswell, said serving on her school’s Safety Patrol taught her the importance of awareness around cars and buses.
After being nominated as Safety Patroller of the Year at River Eves Elementary last school year, she took home the statewide award. Only one patrol member per state, in the Auto Club Group’s territory, wins the annual recognition.
“In fourth grade, my teacher Mr. Klosterhaus nominated me for for the Safety Patrol Program. And I loved it because I became very helpful to my school” she said. “And, I’m very grateful to all the students out there, have a great school year and stay safe.”
Leyla-Marie said her teacher Ms. Lemcoe helped out and made the program a lot of fun with treats for the Safety Patrol. After graduating fifth grade, she’s headed to Holy Redeemer Catholic School in Johns Creek.
Fulton County students are heading
back Aug. 4 for the start of the 2025-26 school year. The new calendar includes 177 instructional days and a new weeklong break in October along with the Thanksgiving, winter and spring breaks.
The school district encourages parents to check their child’s emergency contact information on Infinite Campus and its updated student code of conduct, banning tobacco and vape products, inappropriate physical contact and the misuse of AI or altered images.
The district’s electronics policy bans personal devices like phones and tablets for students in grades K-8 and restricts their usage during instructional time for highs schoolers.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 63 percent of child pedestrians killed in traffic crashes in 2023 were struck during weekdays. Afternoon hours following the school day are particularly dangerous because children are vulnerable as they walk through residential areas and near school grounds.
Garrett Townsend, public affairs director for AAA, said it’s important to realize that children getting on and off buses are unpredictable.
“Believe it or not, in just a few days, kids are going to be heading back to school,” Townsend said. “We have a responsibility as motorists on the road, and that’s to keep them safe.”
See SCHOOL, Page 26
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Each week Appen Media asks a staff reporter to profile a business, nonprofit or commerce group they find interesting. The selection can be from anywhere in the Metro Atlanta area. The decision is up to the reporter and is made entirely independent of the sales department. Find other pieces at appenmedia.com/business.
Johns Creek pet clinic provides urgent, compassionate care
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Jason Virdi remembers a sense of dread in the backseat of an Uber as he and his wife rushed their dog Ruby to the vet.
The couple was desperate. An aspiration during a surgery had led to a dangerous lung infection. It was the latest crisis in a string of cascading health issues that began with a surgery complication from a routine spay.
Virdi, who worked in finance at the time, said his mind defaulted to problem-solving. He questioned whether the driver was going fast enough or whether they would be delayed by construction. His wife Elizabeth Ruocco was distraught.
At the hospital, a team of veterinary professionals leaped into action, putting Ruby on oxygen and getting her the emergency care she needed.
“Once we got her there, I felt a lot better,” Virdi said.
Despite the excellent care, Ruby’s condition did not improve. She died about 24 hours later.
The tragedy hit hard but spurred Virdi into action. In April, he opened Ruby Veterinary Urgent Care with the help of Chief Medical Officer Dr. Melissa Ehrlich.
“I wanted to memorialize Ruby in a way that was more meaningful,” Virdi said.
Ruby Veterinary Urgent Care, 10710 State Bridge Road, specializes in a kind of care that is in short supply, treating cats and dogs suffering from many of the most common ailments.
As an urgent care hospital, the clinic offers top tier expertise and equipment to give owners peace of mind and animals same-day relief for acute issues. It also helps alleviate the burden on veterinary emergency centers, which prioritize life saving care.
Providing care
Owners should think of Ruby Veterinary Urgent Care as they do traditional human urgent care, Ehrlich said.
The hospital can provide life-saving treatment, but its specialty lies in illnesses and injuries that require prompt attention but do not pose an immediate threat to an animal’s life.
Commonly seen ailments include ear, eye and skin infections; gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea or vomiting; ingestion of foreign objects; neurological issues including trouble walking and seizures; broken bones; urinary problems; end-of-life care; and more.
A host of capabilities is available on premises, including an X-ray, ultrasound, anesthesia, blood work lab, endoscope, full in-house pharmacy, pointof-care technology and oxygen.
A team of about 10 nurses assist four veterinary doctors, seeing patients the same day they call.
Together, they prioritize investigating health issues and treating their root causes.
For example, dogs that sometimes present with diarrhea or vomiting may be suffering from an endocrine disorder that prevents their adrenal glands from manufacturing sufficient amounts of the hormone cortisol. By running blood work, the team can successfully identify the issue and get the pet the help it needs.
“You provide them a shot, and they start to feel so much better,” Ehrlich said.
Virdi said he decided to offer every employee of the hospital part ownership.
Sadly, Ehrlich said those working in veterinary medicine have suffered significantly higher rates of mental health issues. That’s in part because they often care so much about their work, she said.
JASON VIRDI/PROVIDED Ruby Veterinary Urgent Care owner Jason Virdi and his wife Elizabeth Ruocco hold their dog Ruby in 2021 See VET, Page 9
Vet:
Continued from Page 8
“The way we think about it is, if the hospital does well, we want the entire team to do well,” Virdi said.
Top-notch treatment
Before Ehrlich decided to help found the clinic, she worked on the front lines of animal emergency care.
Ehrlich said she loves a calm home life, but at work, she thrives on “organized chaos.”
Since obtaining her doctorate in veterinary medicine in 2008 from UGA, she has realized her passion lies in serving as a kind of medical detective, doing work that requires constant problem solving and quick thinking.
When she worked in the emergency setting, she recalls being inundated with less severe cases that made saving pets’ lives all the more difficult. That’s because until now urgent care centers for animals have been relatively rare.
Urgent care veterinary practices are on the rise as of late, said the American Veterinary Medical Association in 2023.
Modeled after human walk-in clinics, they provide quick relief for less serious problems, often far sooner than general practitioners.
They are not a fill in for regular vet
keep a goldfish and then two red-eared slider turtles named Woody and K’tan Tan. When she got older, she adopted her first dog, a golden retriever named Dinah, who was a breeder surrender because of a neurological condition.
“She’s a special little girl,” Ehrlich said. “She loves life, and so I took her home with me because I knew that I could provide her with a home that could care for her.”
That caring mentality extends to the clinic’s design and decor.
an understanding of what’s going on.”
Information can go a long way in alleviating owners’ anxiety, so Wheeler and staff try to explain what they are doing in simple, everyday terms.
“When I’m talking to an owner, I speak with transparency, and I’m very honest with them,” she said. “We do a lot of education and hand holding.”
Looking forward
visits, but they do fill a much needed gap in care, the association said.
Compassionate team
Providing excellent treatment is just one piece of the puzzle, Ehrlich said.
Making their animal patients and human owners feel at ease is just as important.
That starts with professionals who have a deep and real appreciation for every animal who walks through their doors.
As a child, Ehrlich always wanted a pet.
“I had an emotional connection with animals, and I felt like they understood me, and I understood them,” she said.
After saying no again and again, her parents finally gave in and allowed her to
Cute wallpapers of happy cats and dogs cover numerous walls. Wide windows allow in ample outdoor light. A special cat-screening room contains comfy beds recessed into nooks for felines to feel safe. Treats of all kinds abound on shelves throughout the clinic.
The team gave special attention to an end of life room where pets can enjoy their last moments with their humans. It features a private exit so grieving owners can leave discreetly. For dogs who are ready to depart, staff have on hand a jar of Hershey’s Kisses.
“Because they can’t have them when they are healthy, we let them enjoy a goodbye kiss,” Ehrlich said.
The clinic may be a veterinary facility, but staff recognize the importance of making owners feel comfortable, nurse Keri Wheeler said.
“I like to take care of the clients just as much as I like to take care of their pets,” Wheeler said. “Everybody deserves to have
Just months after opening, Ruby Veterinary Urgent Care has already garnered significant attention from local pet owners.
The clinic has won the hearts of many clients, amassing an impressive collection of 40 Google reviews, all of which are five stars.
“The most caring and compassionate vet we’ve ever been to,” said one client who took their senior dog to the clinic. “We genuinely thought it might be the end, and we were heartbroken and afraid. From the moment we walked in, the entire team … treated Sam like he was part of their own family.”
Virdi said he has found immense satisfaction in the hospital’s achievements, and he is now looking forward to the future.
Since Ruby’s death, he has adopted a second bernedoodle, Rosie, and has had one daughter with his wife. But Ruby’s memory will live on and perhaps be carried forward as he hopes to open future urgent care clinics under her name.
“Our aspirations are big,” he said.
JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA
Nurses Debbie Caldwell, left, and Keri Wheeler chat inside Ruby Veterinary Urgent Care July 30.
Backpacks & Buyer’s Guides
Why back-to-school season is the perfect time to find your next North Atlanta home
Brought to you by – Lauren Palmer, Realtor | Founding Member | HOME Luxury Real Estate, North Atlanta
As summer winds down and lunchboxes, supply lists, and carpool lanes make their annual comeback, many North Atlanta families find themselves settling into a familiar rhythm. But while you’re getting your kids ready for a fresh school year, it might also be the perfect time to think about a fresh start for your family—at a new address.
Back-to-school season in areas like Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, and Milton isn’t just about notebooks and new shoes—it’s about community. And if you’ve been eyeing that move to a larger home, a
quieter street, or a neighborhood with top-tier schools, now is a golden window of opportunity.
Here’s why:
1. School Zones Matter—A Lot.
In North Atlanta, toprated public and private schools drive real estate demand. Families planning a move are often making school proximity their number one priority. Buying now means you can lock in your spot in a highly desirable school district—not to mention skip the scramble next summer.
2. Inventory Sweet Spot.
Late summer and early fall can be a great time to buy. Many sellers who listed in spring are more motivated by now, and fewer buyers are competing once the school year starts. Translation: better negotiation opportunities for smart buyers.
3. Family Priorities Are in Focus. There’s something about the backto-school energy that makes everyone reevaluate what’s working—and what’s not—about their home. Maybe you need a dedicated Zoom-proof office, a backyard big enough for a soccer goal, or a guest suite for the in-laws. Now’s the time to align your lifestyle with your living space.
4. You’re Already in Planning Mode. Between school calendars, sports schedules, and holidays on the horizon, you’re already juggling logistics. Why not ride that momentum and get ahead of the new year with a smart real estate move? At the end of the day, home isn’t just
where you sleep—it’s where you study spelling words, host birthday parties, and cheer from the front yard on the first day of school. North Atlanta is full of incredible communities where your family can thrive—and back-to-school season just might be the ideal time to find the one that fits you best.
Whether you’re dreaming of tree-lined streets in Roswell, the walkability of Alpharetta’s city center, the family-friendly feel of Sandy Springs, or the equestrian elegance of Milton, I’d be honored to help you find your next chapter.
Here’s to fresh starts, sharpened pencils, and new front doors. Happy back-toschool, North Atlanta!
If you are interested in finding the perfect HOME for your family, please reach out to Lauren Palmer at Lauren@ HOMEgeorgia.com.
From antique to modern
The art of exceptional rugs and service
Brought to you by – Concept Home Rugs
With over 42 years of experience in the rug industry, I have mastered every aspect, from manufacturing and retail to wholesale distribution. My journey has allowed me to collaborate with artisans from around the globe, offering a diverse collection that includes everything from timeless antiques to modern designs.
At our Alpharetta store, we pride ourselves on a 100% satisfaction guarantee and offer a white-glove service with delivery. We also provide professional cleaning and repair for antique rugs, ensuring that every piece remains in pristine condition.
We invite you to visit us and experience the artistry and quality that only decades of expertise can offer. Discover the perfect rug for your space!
With over 40 years of expertise in the oriental carpet industry, we’re excited to open our new showroom, offering a wide selection of authentic, high-quality handmade and power-loom rugs, new, semi antique and antique oriental rugs from around the world, including Persia, India, China, Turkey, and Egypt. We offer all sizes, up to palace sizes, at the best prices around. Conveniently located on the corner of State Bridge and Kimball Bridge, come visit our new showroom to experience top notch quality, prices, and white glove services!
The 7-second secret to selling your home
Brought to you by – The Dolan Group
“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”
We were reminded of this truth just last week.
Two homes. Same neighborhood. Similar size, price, and layout. But one flew off the market in just a few days. The other sat for weeks.
The difference? That first moment.
When our buyers walked into the first home, they felt something. It was clean, light, and welcoming. The rooms made sense. The energy was warm. Our buyer said, “I knew the moment I stepped in — this was it.”
That’s the power of a first impression. It’s not just about how something looks — it’s about how it feels Whether you're meeting a person or walking into a home, our brains make snap judgments in as little as seven seconds. And once that impression is set, we tend to seek out information that confirms it — not challenge it.
We often tell clients:
A first impression is like wet cement.
You have a short window to shape it. After that, it hardens — and shifting perception takes a lot more effort.
The age-old principle of making a good first impression has become more relevant in today’s highly visual world. Social media, photo-heavy
listings, video tours, reels — buyers are forming opinions before they even schedule a showing…and if photography and staging aren’t right that showing might never happen.
In a world shaped by social media, video, and curated content, the homes that sell fastest (and often for more) are the ones that feel both aspirational and attainable. Great staging helps buyers imagine themselves living there — not you. It’s not just decor — it’s emotional design. Staging helps buyers feel connected the moment they step in. We want them to say, “This is where I can sip coffee in the mornings,” not, “But where does the couch go??”
At The Dolan Group, we take a fullservice approach to real estate. We treat each home as a unique project and walk beside our clients through every step — not just to list, but to sell well . From prep and photography to negotiations and closing, we manage the details so you can focus on the next chapter. From the first conversation, we listen carefully to your goals and build a plan that makes sense — one that reflects today’s buyer and today’s market. Every home is different. Every plan is custom. But the goal is always the same: to help you sell with ease and for top dollar.
Selling a home deserves a thoughtful strategy — one that starts with a great first impression.
Store Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 1pm-6pm 11266 State Bridge Rd, Suite 300, Alpharetta, GA www.concepthomerugs.com | 678-404-7555
Final opportunities to build your dream homestead in Milton
Brought to you by - Berkshire Hathaway
Tucked into the scenic rolling hills of Milton, Georgia, The Homestead at Milton stands as one of North Atlanta’s most prestigious addresses—and now, only seven estate homesites remain. These are the final opportunities to become part of this extraordinary, gated community, where luxury meets serenity on land steeped in history.
Built on the former site of a beautifully manicured 180-acre golf course, The Homestead at Milton offers an unmatched setting of natural beauty,
privacy, and timeless Southern elegance. This exclusive enclave features expansive 4- to 10-acre homesites, each designed for those seeking space, sophistication, and the freedom to design a truly custom home.
Whether you choose to bring your own builder or collaborate with one of the community’s award-winning custom builders, every residence at The Homestead reflects impeccable craftsmanship and architectural distinction. Homesites are priced from the $900s to over $1 million, with completed custom homes ranging from $4 million to $11 million+.
Ideally located just minutes from the charming shops and dining in downtown Crabapple and the vibrant lifestyle destinations of Historic Downtown Alpharetta and Avalon, The Homestead blends the peace of countryside living with easy access to everything today’s luxury buyer desires. Commuting is simple with close proximity to GA-400, and families benefit from being in one of Georgia’s top-rated school districts—Summit Hill Elementary, Hopewell Middle, and Cambridge High School.
With only seven opportunities remaining, this is your chance to secure a
legacy property in one of Milton’s most coveted communities. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to build your forever home surrounded by lush landscapes, rolling pastures, and like-minded neighbors who value luxury, privacy, and space. The Homestead at Milton is proudly presented by Vision Development Partners. To schedule your private tour, call 770.855.6964 or visit TheHomesteadatMilton.com. Sales and marketing by award winning Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division. An Equal Housing Opportunity.
Georgia Attorney General visits community group
By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga. — Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr paid the Rotary Club of Roswell a visit July 24.
More than 150 Rotary members and guests attended the meeting at Roswell Area Park to hear about Carr’s work. The club chose to bring Carr out to talk about his campaigns to address human trafficking, organized crime and opioid addiction.
Roswell Rotary President Trummie Lee Patrick III said that the main reason they chose to bring Carr out to speak was because of Carr’s work to end human trafficking. Dave McCleary, Roswell Rotarian and past president, founded End Human Trafficking Now, which became an international movement.
“It was a great pairing of both what Dave's trying to accomplish and obviously what Attorney General Carr has tried to accomplish here in Georgia,” Patrick said.
Carr said that his favorite part about meeting local communities such as Roswell is being able to hear the good stories.
“It is so uplifting when you hear people helping other people,” he said.
Carr has served as Georgia’s Attorney General for nearly a decade and is setting his sights on the
governor’s office. Although Carr did not speak about his campaign at the club meeting, he did speak about his future goals for the state.
During his talk, Carr highlighted his initiatives, which include the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit, which has led to more than 60 convictions and rescued more than 200 children. He also highlighted his work through the Gang Prosecution Unit, which has collected more than 100 convictions.
“Georgia is a leader in the fight against human trafficking, and that is in part because of the people in this room,” Carr said.
Carr also mentioned the state’s fight to combat the opioid crisis.
“This is the thing that keeps me up at night with a 20-year-old daughter,” he said.
On July 11, Carr announced that the State of Georgia is expected to receive up to $20 million from several recently proposed national settlements with eight drug makers accused of contributing to the opioid crisis. Funds from the settlements will be put toward addiction treatment, prevention and recovery services.
“I think this is going to make a big difference,” Carr said at the Rotary meeting.
To learn more about the club, visit roswellrotary.club.
SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA
Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr speaks to the Rotary Club of Roswell about his work to combat human trafficking, organized crime and opioid addiction at the Bill Johnson Community Activity Building July 24.
Georgia’s new voucher program is starting, with lower demand than expected
By TY TAGAMI Capitol Beat
ATLANTA —Thousands of Georgians will soon be spending money from the state’s new subsidy for private K-12 education, as the first quarterly payouts appear in “promise scholarship” accounts.
More than 15,000 students applied for one of the $6,500 annual subsidies, and about 8,500 were approved. That means the state is on track to give about $55 million in taxpayer dollars — far less than budgeted — to families that have chosen private schooling over attendance at their nearby lowperforming public school.
To qualify for the payments, most students had to spend a year attending one of the nearly 500 public schools performing in the bottom quarter of state academic measures. But the youngest students have a way around that requirement. Under last year’s law establishing the payments, often referred to as a “voucher,” rising kindergartners need not have attended public school to qualify.
According to new figures from the Georgia Student Finance Commission, which oversees the program, a third of the recipients will be attending kindergarten. Nearly half will be in elementary school, with the rest in
seventh through 12th grades.
The money will be paid out quarterly, starting this month. Families can use it for a variety of education-related expenses. Two-thirds said they plan to spend it on tuition, according to the commission. The rest will use it to cover home schooling costs and other allowable expenses, such as tutoring, therapy and curriculum.
Opponents of these vouchers argued they would mostly be used by the wealthy, who are more able to afford the difference between the amount of the subsidy and the cost of private school tuition, which can exceed $10,000 a year.
As state Republican lawmakers were pushing Senate Bill 233 to final passage last year, Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes, D-Duluth, summarized the opposition, mostly from fellow Democrats.
The vouchers are “a mirage for families like mine and for countless others across our state,” she said on the Senate floor, adding that they would undermine education for kids who don’t choose private school, since public schools would lose state funding for each student who took a voucher.
“It is a battle for the soul of our education system,” Parkes said.
“I’ve got news for you,” responded Sen. Greg Dolezal, R-Cumming, the
chief co-sponsor of the bill. “The wealthy already have school choice, including some wealthy members in this room who have been able to exercise school choice for their own children.”
Supporters of the bill, which Gov. Brian Kemp signed into law a month after passage, said the loss of state funding for public schools would not hurt them because they would no longer have to cover the cost of educating the voucher recipients.
The commission reports that three quarters of recipients are “lowerincome,” meaning the students are coming from households with incomes at or below four times the federal poverty level. ($106,600 a year for a family of three and $128,600 for a family of four.)
Half of the recipients are Black and a third are white.
Two metro Atlanta districts will lose the most students — DeKalb County, with nearly 900 scholarship recipients, and Henry County, with nearly 800. Others rounding out the top five districts losing students to vouchers are Bibb County, at nearly 600 students; Richmond County at nearly 500, and Savannah-Chatham County with more than 400.
The commission cautioned that the numbers are a moving target because
some students may yet opt out. But the participation numbers are well below the $141 million that lawmakers budgeted for this school year.
Tony West, Georgia director of Americans for Prosperity, a group that lobbied for this program, attributed the low participation to several potential reasons: parents haven’t heard of the program yet, they know about it but are skeptical or they did not apply because they do not live in the attendance zone of an eligible public school.
Only 56% of applicants were approved, which suggests that many who applied do not live near an underperforming school. Address and state residency were the two main qualifying criteria.
“I think that strongly suggests that the eligibility requirements are too restrictive,” said West, who noted that 16 states with similar scholarship programs have not based eligibility on address. He can see his group lobbying state lawmakers to convert Georgia’s program to universal access.
“We’ll see what the political appetite is moving forward,” he said.
This story is available through a news partnership with Capitol Beat News Service, a project of the Georgia Press Educational Foundation.
PRESERVING THE PAST
Chronicles of a family: the Tatums of North Fulton
BOB MEYERS Columnist
Family genealogy is not for everyone, but some people once introduced become totally engrossed in the subject. Pat Tatum Miller is just such a person. Through years of diligent research, the Milton resident has determined she is connected to at least 1,575 permanent residents of the Old Roswell Cemetery. It is impressive, for sure, but it also says something about the families who first settled in this part of Georgia and how they became intertwined with each other generation after generation. Pat says that if you are related to someone buried in Old Roswell Cemetery, you are probably related to her – somehow. It means you also have at least 1,575 new kinfolks.
Pat’s interest in cemeteries is wide. She has researched numerous local cemeteries and helped many people appreciate what cemeteries can teach us about history. She has also taught others how to preserve the often-decaying memorials and tombstones found in early cemeteries that sometimes date back to the 1700s. She and friend Juliette Johnson, who sits on the Milton City Council, devote time trying to identify people buried in Old Roswell Cemetery who do not have markers. When asked why there are several hundred unmarked graves in the cemetery, Pat replies “because many markers were wooden crosses originally.” Ground penetrating radar located the unmarked graves.
Pat’s maiden name is Tatum. The Tatums were early pioneers in North Fulton. Like most early families, they were farmers and they produced many offspring.
Jesse Tatum (circa 1802-1882/83), Pat Miller’s great-great-grandfather was born in South Carolina and was married to Sarah Elizabeth Rawson (1811-1900) who was born in Virginia and died in Cobb County. Both are buried in Old Roswell Cemetery. According to a genealogy study at the Alpharetta and Old Milton County Historical Society that traces eight generations of Tatums, Sarah could neither read nor write and lived with her daughter Mary and son-in-law Hosea Coleman after her husband’s death. According to the 1900 census, Sara and Jesse had 10 children. Large families were common in rural Georgia as offspring played important roles in the operation of family farms.
Sara and Jesse’s son Francis – Frank -- Asbury Tatum (1836-1862) and his brother James Josephus Tatum (18391887) joined the Confederate18th Regiment, Georgia Volunteer Infantry in 1861
ATLANTA CONSTITUTION
Peace in Old Milton County. Pat’s uncle Bob Manning and aunt Lizzie Tatum were community leaders. Bob was secretary of the Milton County School Board and head of fundraising to build the downtown Alpharetta Methodist Church. He was president of a bank that failed during the Great Depression. Bob and Lizzie’s home was across the street from the church on Cumming Street and for many years housed the Duffy Realty Company.
Jesse Henson Tatum (1890-1936) and his wife Mae Queen Kinard (1898-1936) were Pat Miller’s grandparents. Jesse Henson was born on a farm near Alpharetta and lived for many years in or near Alpharetta. He was an overachiever. When he became Atlanta City Clerk in 1930 at age 40, the Atlanta Constitution described him as follows: “From a delivery boy, bank clerk, grocery clerk, stenographer, reporter, executive secretary to two of Atlanta’s mayors to a post of honor and trust as clerk of Georgia’s greatest municipality tells the story of the career over the past 15 years of J. Henson Tatum.”
As a reporter for the Atlanta Constitution Jesse Henson covered police and then city hall. He enlisted in the army in 1917 during World War I. He was assigned to Camp Wheeler in Macon where he became
co-editor of the camp publication Camouflage. He remained there throughout the remainder of the war and then returned to the Atlanta Constitution and to his prior position as a city hall reporter. There he met his future wife, who was in charge of the city hall War Relief Bureau which helped returning soldiers find jobs.
Sadly, Jesse Henson’s career was cut short by a gas explosion in his home in 1936 that killed him and his wife.
Finally, a few words about Pat Miller’s contributions to her community. She is president of the Alpharetta and Old Milton County Historical Society. She has been on numerous committees, as researcher for the museum in the Alpharetta City Hall, supporting efforts to save Bailey Johnson School, families of the McConnell Chadwich House and others. Before retiring, she worked in public radio and TV for 28 years. Thanks to Kimberly Wood for her help with this column.
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.
MID-SUMMER SALE
under the command of Brigadier General William Tatum Wofford (1824-1884). The brothers took part in several Civil war battles, including the Second Battle of Manassas (Bull Run) in August,1862 in Virginia. Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson attacked the Union Army which retreated back to Washington, D.C. Casualties were high on both sides. A month later Frank was listed as missing in action in the Battle of Sharpsburg, Maryland (Battle of Antietam), in September 1862 and was never heard from again. Sharpsburg, which was won by Union troops, is known as the deadliest one-day battle in U.S. history with 23,000 soldiers killed, wounded or missing. James Tatum was wounded in 1864 in Virginia and was captured at Farmville, Va. in April 1865 and released at Newport News, Va. in June 1865.
Pat’s great-grandfather Jesse Alphus Tatum (1852-1934) grew up in Roswell. He and his wives Mary Ann Henson Tatum (1857-1898) and Marietta Alvarilla Bates Tatum (1873-1950) lived in Alpharetta. His older brother George W Tatum Sr. (1839-1913) was a Justice of the
Portrait of Jesse Henson Tatum, Atlanta City Clerk whose promising career was cut short by a gas explosion in his home in 1936. Jesse and his wife were killed in the explosion.
OPINION
It’s almost time for the Great Southeast Pollinator Census!
The 2025 Great Southeast Pollinator Census (GSEPC) is scheduled for August 22-23, 2025, and we need your help. The GSEPC was developed by Becky Griffin, the UGA community and school garden coordinator, after she noted the need for increased knowledge among Georgia gardeners about insect ecosystems and pollinators. Her goals were to create sustainable pollinator habitats, increase entomological literacy and generate useful data about Georgia’s pollinators. She started with a pilot project of 50 gardens in 2017 and expanded to all of Georgia in 2019. Now open to residents of North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida and Alabama, as well as Georgia, it is also an important STEM activity in public schools and supported by numerous businesses.
Three quarters of the world’s flowering plants and about 35 percent of the world’s food crops depend on animal pollinators to reproduce. More than 3,500 species of native bees in North America help increase crop yields. Some scientists estimate that one out of every three bites of food we eat exists because of animal pollinators like bees, butterflies, moths, birds, bats, beetles and other insects. Habitat loss, disease, parasites and environmental contaminants have contributed to the loss of pollinators. It is in everyone’s interest to provide sustainable habitats so pollinators can find the right quantity and quality of food they need to survive.
The data generated by the GSEPC helps determine the economic value of pollination. This is very important as agriculture is the top economic sector in Georgia. Growers also use the data to determine which pollinators are in their counties to make educated decisions on pest and pollinator management. City and county planners use the information to create thriving landscapes, and conservationists use the data to determine the impact of their pollinator plantings. It is easy for anyone to participate in the Census, and all materials are available at gsepc.org. Participants simply pick a pollinator plant and count the number of insect visits to that plant in a 15-minute window. The insects are divided into 8 categories: bumble bees, carpenter bees, honeybees, small bees, wasps, flies, butterflies/moths and others (beetles, lady bugs, dragonflies, lacewings, etc.). Participants load their tallies onto the GSEPC website.
A pollinator plant is any native or non-native plant blooming during the census that shows insect activity. Common pollinator plants include Black-eyed Susan, Butterfly milkweed, Blue Giant Hyssop, Raydon’s favorite Aster, purple coneflower, dwarf tickseed and Catmint.
This year, UGA Extension Fulton County is hosting GSEPC events at five locations on Saturday, August 23, 2025.
These locations will have everything you need to participate in the Census, including counting sheets, insect ID guides as well as additional information about pollinators and pollinator gardens. Master Gardeners will be available at each site to guide you through everything you need to know. They will even collect your count sheets and upload your data to the GSEPC website. Keep in mind you can also do this task in your own backyard. So, let’s all embrace our inner “BEE-ing” and join the Great Southeast Pollinator Census. Happy Gardening!
Leafcutter bee on mountain mint
LOST CORNER PRESERVE 7300 Brandon Mill Rd, NW
Springs, GA 30328
AUTREY MILL NATURE PRESERVE, SUMMEROUR HOUSE GARDEN 9770 Autry Mill Rd, Johns Creek, GA 30322
LITTLE DIGGERS BOOTH AT SANDY SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 8:30 a.m.-noon
CHASTAIN PARK, NATIVE PLANT GARDEN 4001 Powers Ferry Rd, NW, Atlanta, GA 30342 9 a.m.-noon
GROWL GARDEN at CAMP TRUITT 4H EDUCATION CENTER 4300 Herschel Road, College Park, GA 30337
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/.
About the author
This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Anne Wiskind, a Master Gardener who completed her Fulton County Master Gardener curriculum in April 2024. She is a life-long gardener with an active interest in ecological gardening and encouraging biological diversity.
ANNE WISKIND Guest Columnist
Cool memories in appreciation of conditioned air
During these sweltering days of July, it is easy to forget that there were not always cool, airconditioned spaces to work and live. I can remember the time before my family had air conditioning. We had an air-conditioned car before our home was air-conditioned. My mom and I would sit for a brief time in the family AMC Rambler, just to cool off. We also went to the movies, knowing that the movie theater was airconditioned, and we would enjoy the cool air as much as the movie.
Before we had air conditioning in our 1960s home, we had a whole house fan, or attic fan. It did a decent job of cooling the house at night, but it was loud. An attic fan may have been the sound machine of the 1960s.
Dr. John Gorrie designed an icemaking machine in 1851 and received a U.S. patent that same year. He believed cooling would make hospital patients more comfortable and help prevent malaria. The machine created ice by using a compressor powered by horse, water, wind-driven sails or steam. His invention eventually led to modern refrigeration and air conditioning, but following the death of his financial backer, it never made it to the marketplace. (energy.gov)
The next major step in the development of air-conditioning happened in 1902, when Willis Carrier designed a system to control humidity using cooling coils. His patent was for an “Apparatus for Treating Air.”
Mechanical refrigeration was used to cool the Missouri State Building at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904. A system to cool public movie theaters was designed in 1922, and the Rivoli Theater in New York was the first to use an air conditioning system.
Atlanta shoppers could enjoy the new cool air system of Davison-Paxon department store in 1928. “Shoppers of Atlanta now may enjoy one of the blessings of modern science which heretofore has been reserved for theater goers and the patrons of a few restaurants.” The system is described as fresh air passing through an air shaft and “forced through a falling sheet of water.” The water was chilled by refrigerator pipes. (Atlanta Constitution, June 8, 1928, “Cool Air System Now in Operation at Local Store”) Fox, Capitol, Paramount, Grand and Rialto Theaters in Atlanta all boasted on their cool air systems by 1934.
Restaurants and more department stores began installing air conditioning systems. Offices began adding new cooling systems, but it was too expensive for home use. (Atlanta Constitution, Oct. 1934)
In 1932, a window unit was developed that could be used in homes, but not many were purchased due to the high cost. The 1932 Carrier Room Weathermaker was large and expensive, but the 1940 model was advertised as half the size and half the price of the earlier version. (New Georgia Encyclopedia)
A 1950 advertisement in The Atlanta Constitution describes the Brookhaven Theater as the “Suburban Home of All Downtown hits.” A modern refrigerated air-conditioning system helped bring in customers.
By the late 1960s, window units were more affordable, and most new homes were built with central air conditioning.
North DeKalb Mall opened on July 29, 1965, advertised as “Metropolitan Atlanta’s first regional shopping center with an air-conditioned mall.” (Atlanta Constitution, July 29, 1965, “City’s
CITY OF MILTON PUBLIC NOTICE
first weatherproof mall shopping center opens Thursday”)
By 1971, when Perimeter Mall opened, air conditioning was expected. The mall is advertised as having “…an atmosphere of perpetual Springtime, created electrically just for your comfort.” (Atlanta Journal, August 31, 1971)
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 November 4, 2025, City of Milton Municipal General Election—and any associated runoff election—will be conducted by Fulton County, through its Department of Registration and Elections. The 2023 City of Milton Municipal General Election was conducted by the City. At that time, the Mayor and City Council, as the governing authority for the City of Milton, established the municipal precincts and polling places for that election. For the 2025 elections, the municipal precincts and polling places will be the same as the Fulton County precincts and polling places within the City of Milton and are depicted in the table below:
The municipal precinct boundary map with polling places will be on display at Milton City Hall, 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, GA 30004, and online at miltonga.gov/elections. Citizens are encouraged and invited to view the map in person or online. Following two consecutive weeks of notice in the legal organ, a final resolution establishing the above Fulton County precincts and polling places as the City of Milton precincts and polling places for the 2025 municipal election will be considered for adoption at the September 3, 2025, public meeting of the City Council. Any person with questions or comments regarding the municipal election precincts and polling places may contact miltonelections@miltonga.gov or (678) 242-2500.
VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Columnist
You’ll encounter danger in the tall, tall grass!
The nicest thing about these blazing hot July days is that exquisite hour or so of not-quiteso-hot that comes just as the sun is about to go down. That trusty ol’ star settles lower and lower onto the horizon, going from blinding white to yellow and orange and then red. They say red is a danger color, but I kind of like it in the sky on a late July evening.
Late evening is our favorite time for fishing too. Just the other day we fished our way from suppertime to dark, and the later it got the better it got. The fish were bluegill, big and scrappy, and just before dark we were getting a hit on those little foam spiders on almost every cast. And yes, since you asked, she outfished me again.
But you can’t fish all the time. Sometimes you’d rather hike, and that hour right at dusk is a great time for hiking too.
A couple of days ago, I decided on some evening hiking in an area that’s new to me – the Tallapoosa River Wildlife Management Area located between Cedartown and Buchanan. A relatively recent addition to Georgia’s catalog of public lands, this 3,053acre tract is made up of two separate parcels and offers lots of different opportunities for enjoying the outof-doors. It’s primarily a hunting area. However, this time of year, the hunting seasons are closed and it’s a great place for a ramble in the woods. Note that you’ll need either a hunting license, a fishing license, or
a lands pass to access this property… and yes, they do check.
Tallapoosa River WMA is a little bit of a trip from home, but as things work out, I have plenty of time to make the trip. Since this area is new to me, I have no particular destination. I figure I’ll just find an old woods road or something. Then I’ll strap on the hiking shoes and see where it leads. All I have to do is pick a route and go.
Driving along on one of the gravel roads which provides access to the western portion of the WMA, I see coming up ahead of me a wide spot with room enough to pull over and park – and right next to what appears to be the start of an overgrown old road.
I stop the car and get out for a better look, stepping into knee-high grass that reaches my knees. The old road appears to go downhill, perhaps down toward the river perhaps? Down toward a future place to fish?
I’ll never know if I don’t check it out. I should carry a fishing rod. Just in case.
I walk around to the back of the car and open the rear hatch, grass gently tickling my legs as I do. It takes a few minutes to find the rod I want and another few to rig it up.
I close the back hatch and turn to go but then realize I’ve left my water bottle up front. I walk back through the grass back to the driver-side door, open it, and retrieve the water. With every step, I feel as much as hear the rustle of the grass blades against my jeans.
Ready at last, I set out. I follow the old pathway for a while, enjoying the walk as it meanders in and out of shade, in and out of more patches of
grass. But I stop too often (to watch a deer and two fawns, to stand stockstill as a cottontail rabbit nibbles grass, to get a close look at a flower I’d not seen before) and my time gets away long before I ever get to the water.
I’ll just have to come back.
Turning back at last, I retrace my route – back up the hill, back through the patches of grass and undergrowth, back to the car. I put up the rod, walk back through the grass to the driver’sside door, open it up and settle me in.
The drive home is restful.
The itching doesn’t start till later.
At first, it’s just one little itchy spot down on my lower leg. Being an enthusiastic scratcher of itches, I level it with a few determined swipes of a finger. I know, I know…
Then comes another, also on the lower leg…exactly where, it occurs to me, I felt all those tickles from that grass.
And then there are three…and eight…and 15…and oh no. A word comes to mind, a word to strike terror into the heart of even the most intrepid outdoor adventurer.
Red bugs. Trombiculidae. Chiggers.
Oh no.
Chiggers, relatives of ticks, are the larval form of a bug that likes to eat things like us. They tend to hang out in groups in (you saw this coming, didn’t you?) grass and similar environs, waiting for dinner (in the form of you or me) to wander by. When that happens, they waste no time in relocating and digging in. Specifically, they settle in to feed on our skin cells (Ours! Mine!). They don’t actually bite, which should be comforting to know but is not.
Instead, they excavate a hole (which scientist types call a stylostome) in one’s skin, which they then use to access and nibble on our inner skin.
And as they do, their digestive enzymes start to cause what one source helpfully describes as “intensely itchy welts.”
Yeah.
Eventually, the well-fed nymph has its fill and drops off. And then the itching begins. Then it gets real.
It was real for several days. Parts of me looked like I’d been shot by a shotgun loaded with red ink. I have (mostly) resisted the temptation to claw away great expanses of skin, particularly wherever there are creases or folds or tight places. Use your imagination. If you’ve ever had ‘em, you know what I mean.
Yeah.
What can you do to keep chiggers on the grass and off you? Long sleeves and long pants, with pants tucked into your boots or at least your socks, will help. Repellents containing DEET or permethrin may help, too, but I suspect they may just weed out the weak ones. The best thing is to avoid chigger habitat (tall grass, for example…I know, I know), particularly during the cooler parts of the day like sunset when chiggers are most active.
As I write this redbug reminiscence, we’re sitting in the Denver airport on our way to Montana. We’re going fishing. Will she outfish me again? I think I know the answer to that one.
One unanswered question remains, however.
Are there chiggers in Montana?
I’ll let you know.
STEVE HUDSON Columnist
and 4 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, with each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!
WORLD CITIES
1. Montana city. Hurry up. Like a beaver.
2. Edible mushroom. Sheik’s bevy. City of Peru.
3. Swiss city. Bird of prey. Music genre.
4. Gambling game. City of Belarus. Like a sheep.
5. Utah city. Disney dog. Miserly.
6. Baby’s bed. City of Mali. Spill the beans.
7. Beach sight. Fertile track in a desert. North Dakota city.
1 Montana city. Hurry up. Like a beaver
2. Edible mushroom. Sheik’s bevy. City of Peru
How to Solve: Each line in the puzzle above has three clues and three answers. The last letter in the first answer on each line is the first letter of the second answer, and so on. The connecting letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each answer (the answers in line 1 are 4, 5 and 5 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, which each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!
3. Swiss city. Bird of prey. Music genre
4. Gambling game. City of Belarus. Like a sheep
5. Utah city. Disney dog. Miserly
6. Baby’s bed. City of Mali. Spill the
A
Trails:
Continued from Page 1
The trails, which typically fall in the city’s rightof-way along public roadways, average larger than a standard 5-foot-wide sidewalk to improve mobility for pedestrians, cyclists and golf carts.
The blueprint includes every multi-use path and sidewalk, existing and planned, throughout the city. It also advises private developers and the public where the city thinks they should or could go for future projects.
City staff are working to draft the official code amendment changes, along with recommendations from the committee.
“I need to get the city attorney's approval on the code amendment changes and bring that through Council,” Engineering Project Manager Robert DellRoss said.
While it’s still in the works, staff expect to bring the code amendment changes through the City Council approval process in August or September.
The committee is also beginning the process on its next major initiative, deciding which trails to prioritize in the blueprint map.
“We're trying to figure out what the next major sidewalk is, next trail, next project,” Dell-Ross said. “We want to try and advance some recommendations to council to use some of the already existing funding that's sitting there waiting for a decision on which segments.”
The most-supported proposed trails include Section D which consists of 6,200 feet on Birmingham Highway from Batesville Road to Wood Road and Section E which consists of 3,700 feet on New Providence Road from Birmingham Highway to Freemanville Road.
“Connection D and Connection E made a lot of sense for us to look further in and start looking at lengths, start looking at material types, and ultimately, start bringing certain positive numbers to be free to think about,” Dell-Ross said.
Committee members agreed to move forward with the prioritization of the connections to create a loop with existing multi-use paths.
“That's an awesome loop,” Committee member Neal Papeveis said.
City staff are still waiting on public feedback for the trail prioritization and will begin to move forward into the creation of new trails.
School:
Continued from Page 6
The AAA School’s Open Drive Carefully awareness campaign launched in 1946 to prevent school-related child pedestrian traffic crashes, helping kids to live fulfilling, injury-free lives. According to the AAA Consumer Pulse Survey, around 70 percent of Georgia will commute daily or regularly drive routes that take them through school zones and/or bus stops this fall.
“We’re urging all motorists to focus on the task of driving, focus on getting to your destination safely and be aware of when you’re in a school zone,” Townsend said. “Make sure that you pay extra attention to those school zones and children that may
CITY OF MILTON/PROVIDED
A map shows proposed several proposed additions to the Milton Trails Blueprint, a document showing existing and planned sidewalks and multi-use paths throughout the city.
“This is very much like a work in progress,” DellRoss said.
In other matters, city staff gave an update on the proposal for a temporary gravel path along SR. 9 from the Crooked Creek subdivision to where the sidewalk begins near the Bethany Village Publix. The path would consist of 3,500 feet.
be going back and forth to school.”
The AAA survey showed 41 percent of Georgians admitted to driving over the speed limit and 28 percent admitted to using a cell phone while in an active school zone.
Vickie Cross, transportation director at Fulton County Schools, said her mission is simple, deliver students to their destinations on time and in a frame of mind ready to learn. Cross said it requires “the extraordinary efforts” of qualified bus drivers, monitors, mechanics and school district staff.
Governor’s Office of Highway Safety Director Allen Poole said school buses are illegally passed more than 9,000 times a day in Georgia.
“Georgia law is very simple ... when the stop equipment [on a school bus] is activated, you must stop [if it’s in front of your
“[It] would provide a safer, easier way for primarily residents of Crooked Creek to walk to Publix,” DellRoss said.
City staff are looking at how to fund the project and speaking with the Georgia Department of Transportation. A proposal for the project will be given to the City Council at a later date.
vehicle],” Poole said. “If the road is divided by a physical barrier, not a turn lane ... you don’t have to stop if it’s headed in the opposite direction.”
Along Roswell Road (Ga. 9) in Sandy Springs, the four-lane corridor is not median divided and vehicles must stop for a bus dropping off children in either direction.
Lt. Chris Carlisle with the state Public Safety Department’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement said his unit has inspected more than 20,000 school buses in Georgia.
“We found defects that needed to be corrected, worked with the bus shops and made sure that these busses are safe to be able to transport students to and from schools,” Carlisle said. “We’ve done our part. Now we’re asking you to do yours.”
AAA offers essential traffic safety tips for keeping kids safe:
• Slow Down: Stick to school zone speed limits. Even 10 mph faster can mean the difference between life and death for a pedestrian.
• Eliminate Distractions: Avoid texting and distractions. A glance away doubles your chances of a crash.
• Reverse Carefully: Check for children before reversing. Teach kids to stay clear of vehicles.
• Talk to Teens: Stress safe driving habits with your teen, especially during afterschool hours (3-7 p.m.).
• Stop Fully: Always come to a complete stop at stop signs and crosswalks to check for kids.
• Watch for Bikes: Give kids on bicycles at least three feet of space and ensure they wear helmets.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
THE CITY OF MILTON WILL HOLD A SPECIAL CALLED COUNCIL MEETING to IMMEDIATELY FOLLOW THE CONCLUSION OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED WORK SESSION
AUGUST 11, 2025 6:00 PM AT CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS 2006 HERITAGE WALK MILTON, GEORGIA 30004
I, Aayush Desai, born 20th April, 2006, holder of Indian passport number Z5747686 residing in Atlanta, Georgia (USA) have legally changed my name from Aayush Desai to Aayush Samant.
Request for Proposals
Locally Owned and Operated
Milton Fire-Rescue Structural Personal Protective Equipment
Names for submissions received will be publicly announced via a virtual bid opening at approximately 2:30 PM at the City of Milton City Hall located at 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, GA 30004. The City reserves the right to reject any and all proposals. If the contract is awarded, it will be awarded to the highest scoring Offeror whose proposal meets the requirements and criteria set forth in the request for proposals.
The City of Milton is seeking proposals from qualified parties to provide structural fire gear and related items on an as needed basis for the Milton Fire-Rescue Department.
All qualified proposals will receive consideration without regard to age, handicap, religion, creed or belief, political affiliation, race, color, sex, or national origin. The request for electronic proposals for RFP 25-FD01, Milton Fire-Rescue Structural Personal Protective Equipment will be posted on the following websites the week of July 31, 2025: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bids-rfps and https://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/gpr/
12050 Crabapple Road • Roswell, GA 30075 • Cremation
770-645-1414
info@northsidechapel.com
www.northsidechapel.com
During these turbulent times, we would like to highlight the continued courage and commitment of everyone who works in the health care, law enforcement, childcare, food service and utility sectors. We are extremely grateful.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The City of Milton City Council will hold a public hearing for the applications for alcohol licenses listed below on Monday, August 18, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers on the First Floor of City Hall located at 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, Georgia 30004. All interested persons are encouraged to attend the public hearing.
PH-25-AB-07 – Evergreen Alliance Golf Limited LP dba Manor Country Club has submitted an application for a license to sell Wine, Malt Beverages and Distilled Spirits for Consumption On-Premises, and for Sunday Sales of same, at its place of business located at 15952 Manor Club Drive, Milton, Georgia 30004. PH-25-AB-08 – Evergreen Alliance Golf Limited LP dba White Columns Country Club has submitted an application for a license to sell Wine, Malt Beverages and Distilled Spirits for Consumption On-Premises, and for Sunday Sales of same, at its place of business located at 300 Clubhouse Drive, Milton, Georgia 30004. PH-25-AB-09 – YLS GTG LLC dba Ichiban Steak & Sushi Alpharetta has submitted an application for a license to sell Wine, Malt Beverages and Distilled Spirits for Consumption On-Premises, and for Sunday Sales of same, at its place of business located at 5306 Windward Parkway, Suite A, Milton, Georgia 30004.
Request for Proposals
Concession Operations for Bell Memorial Park
RFP NUMBER
25-PRO1
Proposal Due Date: August 26, 2025, by 2:00PM Local Time
Names for submissions received will be publicly announced via a virtual bid opening at approximately 2:30 PM at the City of Milton City Hall located at 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, GA 30004. The City reserves the right to reject any and all proposals. If the contract is awarded, it will be awarded to the highest scoring Offeror whose proposal meets the requirements and criteria set forth in the request for proposals.
The City of Milton is seeking proposals from qualified parties to provide services for concession stand operations at Bell Memorial Park for the Milton Parks and Recreation Department. Bell Memorial Park is located at 15245 Bell Park Drive in Milton, Georgia.
All qualified proposals will receive consideration without regard to age, handicap, religion, creed or belief, political affiliation, race, color, sex, or national origin. The request for electronic proposals for RFP 25-PRO1, Concession Operations for Bell Memorial Park will be posted on the following websites the week of July 31, 2025: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bids-rfps and https://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/gpr/
Administrative Assistant
NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the full-time Administrative Assistant position. The responsibilities of this critical role are to provide a wide variety of administrative tasks primarily to the President and other department leaders as needed. Duties include board meeting preparation, report preparation, general correspondence.
The Administrative Assistant takes initiative, can multitask and remain very organized. They play a vital role in helping keep the NFCC leadership team organized and productive.
If you have a bachelor’s degree in business administration, communications or another relevant field, at least two years of administrative experience and enjoy project management and coordination, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
Lead Cybersecurity needed by AT&T Services, Inc., in Alpharetta, GA [Hybrid position] to provide the protection of devices, assets, data, information technology, networks, customers, vendors, and partners. Apply at http://att.jobs/, select JOB SEARCH and APPLY and select Search by Requisition Number at the left bottom of the page and enter Job Number: R-76188.
Full-time
Sawnee EMC is seeking an Accounts Receivable Clerk to reconcile consumer accounts and process members’ transactions (i.e., Cash, Check, Credit Card, or Money Order). Will supply information to customers and resolve customer inquiries through face-to-face communication. Requires: high school diploma or equivalency, proficiency in mathematics, monetary, and general office skills. A minimum of two years of related experience preferred. Position is full-time; must be flexible to work irregular hours, to include evenings and weekends.
Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, August 8, 2025. Apply online: www.sawnee.coop/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 extension 7568.
Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Protected Veterans. Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.
Lead System Engineering needed by AT&T Services, Inc. in Alpharetta, GA [Hybrid position] to elaborate design and interfaces for specific components including defining subsystems and allocate responsibilities to subsystems, understand solution deployment, and communicate requirements for interactions. Apply at http://att.jobs/, select JOB SEARCH and APPLY and select Search by Requisition Number at the left bottom of the page and enter Job Number: R-76255
Lead Member of Technical Staff needed by AT&T Services, Inc. in Alpharetta, GA [Hybrid position] to develop new products and technologies, system and platform, architectures, hardware and software development engineering, technical securities, and QA designs and certifications. Apply at http://att.jobs/, select JOB SEARCH and APPLY and select Search by Requisition Number at the left bottom of the page and enter Job Number: R-76257.
Zscaler has multiple openings for the following positions at its Alpharetta, GA office (various types/levels)): – Director, Technical Product Management [Job Code 40254]: $249,900-$259,900/yr. Plan, initiate, manage, and coordinate all aspects of information technology projects for building product enhancements in Zscaler’s software, from initiation to delivery. Some telecommuting is permitted.
TO APPLY: Go to www.jobpostingtoday.com, search for job code & submit resume.
Part-time
If you love working with children, Midway Preschool is hiring Assistant Teachers.Call Beth @ 770-752-0440 or email beth@midwayumc.org
To place a classified ad, email classifieds@appenmedia.com. Deadline is Thursdays by 3pm
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Part-time
www.homefields.com is looking for artsy people to paint and assemble it’s unique replica stadiums. Good piece rate. ksmall@homefields. com or 404-664-4411
SunSetter. America’s number one awning! Instant shade at the touch of a button. Transform your deck or patio into an outdoor oasis. Up to 10-year limited warranty. Call now and SAVE $350 today! 1-855-914-1148
Old guitars wanted! Gibson, Fender, Martin, Etc. 1930’sto 1980’s. Top dollar paid. Call 866-433-8277
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