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Titans outlast Milton to capture state title By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com

ANNABELLE REITER/APPEN MEDIA

ATLANTA — The Blessed Trinity Titans won the 4A flag football state championship Dec. 16 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, avenging a regular season loss to Milton with a 21-20 double overtime victory. It was retribution for a Nov. 18 match when the Eagles topped the Titans in overtime. Since then, both teams have improved their focus on extra points, and that’s what made the difference in the championship. With many standout athletes playing on both sides of the ball, players used the big stage to showcase their abilities. Defenses held strong through the first three quarters allowing no points.

The Blessed Trinity Titans celebrate in the end zone after a rush from quarterback Addie Spak for the extra point that sealed the state title at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Dec. 16

See FLAG, Page 10

City clamps down on County Development Authority HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com

pharetta. The arrangement came as a surprise to Alpharetta officials, who said they didn’t learn about it until they read it in the paper. They said the tax abatement cost the city approximately $1 million in revenue. Projects approved prior to 2026 will not be affected by the new legislation.

Going forward, Milton’s mayor will have to approve each proposal from the Development Authority of Fulton County. “This is good,” Mayor Peyton Jamison said. “We’re keeping the decision here local and it’s important.”

Reports: Man steals, County installs new crashes mayor’s car animal control rules

Eagles honor alum, roll past Chattahoochee

New Eagle Scouts receive honors

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► PAGE 10

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MILTON, Ga. — Milton City Council stripped the Development Authority of Fulton County of its power to purchase property for tax incentives without city approval Dec. 15. The resolution is the first of its kind

to be enacted in North Fulton County following the Georgia General Assembly’s approval of House Bill 155 in May. The state legislation came amid echoes from a deal the Development Authority made some 12 years ago with North American Properties providing it with a $55 million tax abatement over 10 years for its Avalon property in Al-

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2 | December 25, 2025 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

PUBLIC SAFETY

Man steals mayor’s car, escapes police chase

RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus CONTACT NEWS TIPS Contact reporters directly or send story ideas to newsroom@appenmedia.com. LETTERS, EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Send your letters, events and community news to newsroom@appenmedia.com. See appenmedia.com/submit for more guidance. ADVERTISING For information about advertising in the Milton Herald or other Appen Media properties, email advertising@ appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278. CIRCULATION To start, pause or stop delivery of this newspaper, email circulation@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

PHOTOS BY ATLANTA NEWS FIRST, PEYTON JAMISON/PROVIDED

Milton Mayor Peyton Jamison’s Jeep Wagoneer was reported stolen from his driveway Dec. 16. The vehicle crashed in Sandy Springs during a police chase. The Sandy Springs incident is not listed on that city’s public portal. That Sandy Springs Police Department has not released a description of the suspect and did not respond to Appen Media’s inquiries about the case. According to Atlanta News First, the suspect is still at large. As for the Milton mayor, he showed gratitude for area law enforcement and their efforts to keep residents and property safe.

“I want to thank our Milton law enforcement officers and our partners at the Alpharetta, Roswell, and Sandy Springs police departments for their professionalism and rapid response which led to the recovery of my stolen vehicle,” Jamison said. “While the incident resulted in substantial damage, the most important outcome is that no one was harmed due to the coordination between our North Fulton public safety departments.”

County Sheriff’s Office explains jail fire By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com ATLANTA — The afternoon of Friday, Dec. 12, reports surfaced about an inmate-caused fire at the Fulton County Jail on Rice Street, sending nine people to the hospital from smoke inhalation. Sheriff Pat Labat thanked the team on duty at the jail in west Atlanta at the time of the incident and the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department for its quick response and coordination to ensure no lives were lost. The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office reported five inmates, including the one accused of starting the fire, and four staff

members were taken to Grady Memorial Hospital with injuries from smoke inhalation. Preliminary information reveals that a single, unidentified inmate who was “out for free time” started a fire around 5:15 p.m. in a bottom tier shower of a zone on the seventh floor in the north tower. The Sheriff’s Office says the inmate gathered plastic trash bags and Styrofoam food trays, placed them in the shower and set them on fire, causing thick smoke and flames. Atlanta Fire Rescue Department firefighters responded quickly, located and extinguished the fire. Investigators with the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department

are conducting an investigation. The Sheriff’s Office reported there were 16 inmates housed in the zone where the fire occurred, and all 118 inmate residents on that floor were moved to the south tower. It is the latest problem to strike the facility under a federal consent decree that has cited unconstitutional, overcrowded living conditions and a lack of supervision. County officials have been conducting ongoing repairs, planning for a new facility and working with the consent decree monitoring team. The Dec. 12 fire is the second at the jail since September.

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ATLANTA — The Milton mayor is driving a rental after a man allegedly stole his car and crashed it while fleeing Sandy Springs police. Around 1 a.m. on Dec. 16, Milton Mayor Peyton Jamison called 911 to report an unidentified man had just driven off with his 2022 Jeep Wagoneer. According to law enforcement, the Jeep was parked in Jamison’s driveway on Birmingham Highway. Security camera footage shows a man approaching the car after coming from the woods to the southeast. He got into the vehicle and left, damaging both the Jeep and Jamison’s Ford truck in the process, according to the police report. Officers used law enforcement databases to track the Jeep as it headed south, from Houze Road to Holcombe Bridge Road, police records show. Atlanta News First reported Sandy Springs police began pursuing the vehicle. According to that story, the chase through Sandy Springs eventually led to a crash on Riverside Drive, where the driver fled the scene.

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AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 25, 2025 | 3

Development: Continued from Page 1

HANNAH YAHNE/APPEN MEDIA

Resident Tom Gauger speaks at the Dec. 15 Milton City Council meeting asking for their support on the proposed setback changes for AG-1 zoning.

The resolution was approved unanimously with no public comments. Other agenda matters were brief. Council members approved the consent agenda which included extending the construction timeline for improvements to Milton City Park and Preserve. The project period has been extended from the end of this year until June 15, 2026. Contracts approved through the consent agenda involved replacing windows in the lobby of Milton City Hall and an agreement to begin offering adult Tai Chi classes at city-operated facilities. Council members approved the first presentations on the proposed setback changes within AG-1 zoning which would lower the required front yard

setback and increase those in the rear of the property. First presentations for sign standards in the Hamlet Overlay District and restaurants that want to add accessory food trucks to their property were also advanced. There was no discussion among the council regarding the items. However, resident Tom Gauger, spoke in favor of extending the rear yard setback on lots zoned AG-1 during public comment. The Dec. 15 meeting was the final City Council meeting of the year and Councilwoman Andrea Verhoff’s final time sitting on the dais. In an emotional sendoff, Verhoff thanked her family and fellow council members as she said goodbye to her position. The meeting ended with the City Council entering executive session to discuss land acquisition, legal and personnel issues. Milton’s first City Council meeting in 2026 is scheduled for Jan. 5 at City Hall, 2006 Heritage Walk.

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4 | December 25, 2025 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

NEWS

ATLANTA — The Fulton County Commission approved a $7.44 million contract Dec. 17 with LifeLine Animal Project, renewing its shelter services agreement while tasking the Fulton County Police with field work. Georgia’s most populous county made national news earlier this year when actor Tyrese Gibson turned himself in to authorities after his pets allegedly killed a neighbor’s dog in a Buckhead neighborhood. Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts penned a letter in early October, discussing the high-profile attack and other recent ones across South Fulton. “It greatly saddens and concerns me that Fulton County has seen several violent dog attacks in recent months,” Pitts wrote. “We’ve built a brand-new animal services facility operated by LifeLine Animal Project, and enforcement now falls directly under Fulton County Police to ensure that dangerous animal cases are handled swiftly and seriously.” Later in the Dec. 17 meeting, commissioners approved an amendment to the county’s annual contract, removing field services from LifeLine’s scope of

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work and modifying its annual funding to match. LifeLine is an Avondale Estatesbased nonprofit operating animal control services for DeKalb and Fulton counties, founded in 2002 with a mission to end the euthanasia of healthy or treatable pets in Metro Atlanta. County Manager Dick Williams said responsible pet ownership and adoptions are key with shelters reporting a 40 percent increase in new arrivals, up to nearly 1,000 new stray pets a month. “We’ve completed the negotiations with LifeLine,” Williams said during his operational report. “The scheduled transfer now is ongoing, so folks are moving to Fulton County Police Department … I think the KPIs (key performance indicators) that are being established for shelter operations that LifeLine will be responsible for have been strengthened.” Audrey Shoemaker, shelter director with Fulton County, spoke about her

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role with LifeLine Animal Project during the Dec. 16 Sandy Springs work session. The nonprofit has operated shelters in both counties since 2013, reporting unprecedented intake numbers since the COVID-19 pandemic, which have not subsided. “It’s a massive increase, and last year was a big year for intakes,” Shoemaker said, reporting an annual jump of 20 percent in the third quarter. “Sandy Springs makes up about 2 percent of our intakes. You guys do a great job with your community, and fortunately it doesn’t seem to be facing some of the challenges that some of the lowerincome areas are facing.” Despite the flood of stray pets, mostly dogs and cats, the nonprofit has around a 90 percent save rate, qualifying it as a no-kill shelter. The number of intakes or impounds from North Fulton totals 5 percent of the more than 7,600 stray pets taken into shelters across the county through

September of this year. Because LifeLine operates out of facilities south of the Chattahoochee River, geography plays a role with increased intakes south of the northern I-285 perimeter, along with socioeconomic factors. “We have been doing much better with our adoptions and our placements this year,” Shoemaker said. “It’s still been a pretty big challenge with the intakes we’ve been facing … The basics of animal sheltering [are] adopt, foster, rescue and volunteer.” Addressing the Fulton County Police Department’s takeover of field services, Shoemaker said she thinks it will be easier for first responders with a law enforcement background to handle pickups, attacks and fights. “Capt. Nicole Dwyer is going to be taking over,” she said. “She has already been at the shelter, and she’s been working with us.” Sandy Springs City Councilwoman Melissa Mular said she has adopted pets from LifeLine in both counties over the years, promoting adoptions and foster care as a way for residents to help with regional overcrowding at shelters.

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AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 25, 2025 | 5

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6 | December 25, 2025 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

NEWS

Alpharetta jail reopens, ready to accept inmates By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — After months of preparation, the jail in Alpharetta is back in action. City officials marked the reopening Dec. 15 with a ribbon cutting in what had been the Fulton County North Annex Jail. The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office withdrew its operation of the facility in September, leaving Alpharetta the opportunity to take back the keys of the detention center it once ran. Alpharetta ceded operation of the jail to the Sheriff’s Office 20 years ago. Faced with long transport times to Fulton County’s downtown jail, the Alpharetta City Council decided in the fall to retake management of the jail, approving $1.6 million for eight months of operation. Following the reopening ceremony, Police Chief Trent Lindgren said he was relieved to finally see the finished product that has dominated his attention since his appointment in August. “Well, the stress level already has gone down just by having this event,”

JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

Alpharetta officials gather for a ribbon-cutting in the booking room of the Alpharetta Detention Center Dec. 15. Lindgren said. “Honestly, at the end of the day, I feel grateful, not only for the support

of the mayor and the council and the city administration, but for our staff, for the people who just put so many hours into this.” A city-run jail in Alpharetta is a benefit to the community’s overall safety, Lindgren said. Previously, many arrested on misdemeanor charges, such as driving while intoxicated or theft, were released with tickets, he said. A city-run jail also allows local courts to better impose probation terms, city staff said. “When you don’t have a facility, especially for local charges or for state

misdemeanors, these people are just getting released right back out into the community,” Lindgren said. “And so, there’s no consequences for bad actions.” The Alpharetta Detention Center includes 72 beds, holding areas for men and women, a kitchen, offices, sally port and other features. After the sheriff’s office vacated the building, city officials repainted and refurbished the jail. Running the jail, a task the city had not engaged in since the 1990s, also required hiring 15 staffers and developing standards for safe operation. Those tasks presented a considerable challenge to city staff, the police chief said. “When we decided to take this on, we knew it was going to be a big deal,” Lindgren said. “We didn’t know it was going to be 100 decisions a day for months on end, trying to figure out how to solve all these problems.” The Police Department is now looking forward to further training jail staff, settling into daily operations and housing its first inmates. Alpharetta officials also are seeking to formalize agreements with nearby cities, charging a fee to house their inmates. Alpharetta City Administrator Chris Lagerbloom said the city is engaging in discussions with Johns Creek, Milton and Roswell to set up inmate detainment arrangements. He said the Alpharetta City Council could review agreements with those cities in February. “Our council is ready to talk,” he said.

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Siena brings ‘Meditalian’ fusion fare to Alpharetta HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com

SIENA/PROVIDED

A woman engages in conversation as she sips on a crafted cocktail at Siena, a new “Meditalian” restaurant in Alpharetta.

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Siena, a restaurant offering a bold fusion of Mediterranean and Italian cuisine, opened Dec. 20 in Alpharetta, giving food enthusiasts a chance to gather around soulful dishes. The “Meditalian” flavors naturally complement one another, co-owner Aïda Lemma said in an email interview. She said she believes bringing together these cuisines will give guests a sense of comfort as they recognize flavors they love while discovering new interpretations. “We wanted to create a restaurant that feels refined yet approachable, where guests can enjoy high-quality food, crafted cocktails and a beautiful space without the formality feeling intimidating,” Lemma said. “Siena is meant to be a neighborhood staple with a destination-worthy menu.” Lemma said her business partner visited Siena, Italy, and fell in love with the city’s charm and culture. The restaurant’s name is an ode to its inspiration and reflects the restaurant’s warm and elegant soul. By focusing on simple, seasonal ingredients like herbs, fresh produce and olive oils, Executive Chef Baba Estavillo curated a menu inspired by cultural staples. Every dish had to earn its place on the menu, Lemma said. The biggest challenge was creating a cohesive menu while allowing creativity and bold flavors to stand

out among dishes. Many dishes were inspired by traditional Mediterranean and Italian staples but reimagined with modern techniques and global influences. Their tapas-style menu features small plates of whipped feta and burnt honey, sweet potato falafel cake and harissa chicken lollipop. Entrees include Moroccan market chicken, golden oxtail and honey-lavender lamb chops. Even the kid’s menu offers bold flavors with cheese pizza on warm pita bread and the fried chicken lollipop. “Siena offered the freedom to create without boundaries while still honoring culinary tradition,” Estavillo said. “The concept encouraged exploration, storytelling and thoughtful [execution], making it an exciting and fulfilling project.” Developing the restaurant has been a collaborative endeavor between the co-owners and Estavillo. The result is a tribute to food that brings people together, encourages conversation and creates memories around the table. “These cuisines are soulful and celebratory,” Lemma said. “Food is essential to gathering, conversation and joy — values that are at the heart of Siena.” Siena opened at 124 Devore Road in Alpharetta, the former site of Gourmania and Seven Seas Mediterranean Café. The restaurant will be closed on Mondays and serve dinner Tuesday through Sunday beginning at 4 p.m. The restaurant plans to offer brunch service in the new year.

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AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 25, 2025 | 9

2025 Year End Report – City of Milton 2016 Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST I) Pursuant to O.C.G.A. Sec. 48-8-269.6 the following chart represents the 2025 annual non-technical report on financial status of each Tier 1 & 2 purpose/program. This report represents the period from October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025. None of the current Purpose/Programs are currently under funded or behind schedule.

ASK APPEN

Tier 1 & 2 Purpose/ Programs

Original Estimated Cost

Current Estimated Cost

Amount Expended in Prior Years

Amount Amount Contracted in Expended in Fiscal Year 2025* Fiscal Year 2025

Congestion Relief

$9,540,000

$11,329,153

$7,591,096

$6,726,915

$2,181,450

Bridges

$1,610,000

$345,787

$266,206

$113,500

Operations/Safety

$16,900,000

$10,879,500

$1,028,004

$740,843

Pedestrian/Bike

$3,372,490

$1,727,809

$1,675,105

Program Management

$750,000

$659,612

Tier 1 & 2 Total Costs

$32,172,490

$33,961,643

$19,475,995

$9,748,935

$4,710,898

FY2025 Contracted Amount for Congestion Relief – $6,726,925 · Morris Road Widening: Phase II – Design, Right-of-Way (ROW), Construction

FY2025 Contracted Amount for Operations/Safety – $1,028,004 · SR140 at Green – Design, ROW · Hopewell at Bethany -Construction · Freemanville at Birmingham - Construction

· Bethany at Providence – Design, ROW · Freemanville at Redd – Design

FY2025 Contracted Amount for Bridges - $266,206 · Birmingham Middle Bridge – Design, ROW

FY2025 Contracted Amount for Pedestrian/Bike Improvements - $1,727,809

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10 | December 25, 2025 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

SPORTS

BASKETBALL: GIRLS: EAGLES 61, COUGARS 15; BOYS: EAGLES 83, COUGARS 56

Milton thrashes Chattahoochee; retires alum’s jersey By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com MILTON, Ga. — High School boys and girls swept visiting Chattahoochee Dec. 16 on a night that included retiring Eagles alum Bruce Thornton’s jersey in between the games. The evening featured two first-year head coaches – Jake Birdsong of Chattahoochee boys and Triston Cooper of Milton girls. The girls faced off first, and the Eagles dominated against a smaller 4-8 Cougars squad. Chattahoochee tied the score once with their first bucket of the game, a 3-pointer by senior Morgan Washington. From there, the Eagles kept a comfortable lead until it stretched to nearly 50 points by the final buzzer. Milton graduated seven seniors last year and had just one junior on the team, forward Caroline Young. Head coach Triston Cooper said Young has gone above and beyond all his expectations, and he has been impressed with her leadership as the only senior. Young led the charge against the Cougars with 16 points. “We came in and did our job, and we’re 2 and 0 in region,” Cooper said. “But ultimately, we’re not going to play to the scoreboard. Our goal is to come out and compete all 32 minutes.” Junior guard Deyva Davis came off the bench with her usual flash of quickness and scoring. Other major contributors included junior Tamia Tomlinson and sophomore Aaleanna Milord in the frontcourt. Milton presented Bruce Thornton with a framed jersey to remember his time at

after her rush for the final extra point propelled BT to the title. “I’m so blessed, we have so many great players and [the MVP] could have been any of them,” Spak said. “It’s my last game, I wanted to go out with a bang. I really wanted this ring, and now that we’ve done it, it’s such a fulfilling moment.” Spak has varsity letters in four sports at BT – flag football, softball, basketball and lacrosse. She is committed to Washington University of St. Louis for softball and plays shortstop. Sullivan had a standout night with her late fourth-quarter touchdown and on defense with three sacks. Sullivan said the power of love kept her team level-headed, but their strength of schedule earlier in the season helped. The Titans beat the eventual Division 2 state champions Greenbrier in their first game of the season at the Corky Kell Classic. “Thank you coach [Brandon] Har-

well for making our schedule so difficult,” she said. “We worked our butts off all season, day in, day out, on and off the field, we bonded so much and got stronger. We said every single day that our goal was to be at the Benz on Dec. 16, so when most people would have given up with a minute left, we all looked at each other and just knew.” Titans head coach Brandon Harwell said at the trophy presentation that he had a feeling the game would come down to extra points. He told Appen Media that he had the utmost faith in his team. “With one second left in the game, if we’re going to lose, it’s going to be with the ball in [Sullivan’s] hands because she’s got us here,” he said. “The girls believed, and we believe success isn’t a choice. It was, until the whistle blows, we were going to keep fighting all the way.”

ANNABELLE REITER/APPEN MEDIA

Ohio State University point guard and Milton alum Bruce Thornton, center, stands with his mother, grandmother and two younger brothers at his jersey retirement ceremony Dec. 16. Thornton is the sixth leading scorer in NCAA basketball and was named to the Wooden Award watchlist at the beginning of the season. the school and unveiled where Thornton’s jersey is now displayed in the rafters. Thornton was honored with a lengthy brag sheet that listed four years of accomplishments at Milton. He never missed a game as an Eagle, starting in all 120 games as a four-year captain. Thornton was named Georgia Freshman of the Year, won multiple tournament MVP awards and was named to three AllAmerican teams during his time at Milton. His senior year, he won nearly every award possible, Player of the Year from many publications including the AJC, Atlanta Tip Off Club and Gatorade Player of the Year.

Flag: Continued from Page 1 The Eagles broke the scoreless deadlock in the fourth quarter when senior Alana Calhoun scored on a 23-yard pass from Audrey Jensen. Calhoun competed with Team Georgia this summer and in the Select Bowl for Team USA and has committed to play flag football on scholarship for Wingate University. Blessed Trinity went down to the wire to claw back when Maggie Sullivan cashed in on a 1-yard run as time expired. A reception by junior Chelsea Lewis on the extra point sent the game into overtime. Both teams executed when it mattered, tacking on extra points after the first five touchdowns. But, Milton faltered on the extra

This season, he was named to the Wooden Award watchlist and is currently the sixth leading scorer in NCAA mens basketball. He is the leader in assists and points at Milton and is pushing toward the top of Ohio State’s records. “My high school coaches and teammates built me up so that I could just transfer everything I learned right to Ohio State,” Thornton said. “I didn’t change much, just stayed true to who I am. The competitive drive started here, and it’s been a great experience to be back.” The boys team had special warm up gear with all the players donning Thornton’s name and number before the game.

With a new head coach and a new roster, Chattahoochee boys basketball is looking to make a statement. Exceeding expectations against Milton, junior Jackson Nunes led the Cougars with a game-high 21 points. Head coach Jake Birdsong said he doesn’t let the team get discouraged with a 2-12 record. “I love this group of guys because we have completely committed to just getting better every day,” he said. “Our goal is to be the best team we can be at the end of the season.” Milton sophomore Pierce Strom led the Eagles with 19 points and five 3-pointers. Milton’s boys and girls teams both had numerous seniors graduate last year, and coaches say the junior class this year has stepped into leadership roles comfortably. Junior Niko Bratton was named a captain alongside Tate Golden and Jackson Harrison. Bratton, a 6’8” forward, has attracted recruiting attention and has posted several monster double-doubles this season. “We’re gonna work regardless,” he said. “We’re gonna find shots and make shots and be scrappy on defense regardless of our size, regardless of whatever.” Head coach Allen Whitehart reflected on the region victory and how it feels to see alumni pass through the program. “I’m glad we were able to get the win, but more importantly, the night was about Bruce,” he said. “He’s a legacy here. He’s very humble and loyal, no one has a bad word to say about him, so it was great to be able to honor him tonight.” Milton girls now improve to 6-1 and the boys are up to 6-2 on the season.

ANNABELLE REITER/APPEN MEDIA

Milton senior captains watch the coin flip prior to the 4A championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Dec. 16.

point on a triple option play in their second overtime drive, while BT was able to finish strong. Titans quarterback Addie Spak threw two scoring passes in overtime to senior Hannah Daley, one a touchdown and one for the extra point. She won the Morgan & Morgan MVP for the game

AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 25, 2025 | 11

2025 Year End Report – City of Milton 2021 Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST II)

LOCAL NEWS

YOU CAN USE Support the work appenmedia.com/join

Pursuant to O.C.G.A. Sec. 48-8-269.6 the following chart represents the 2025 annual non-technical report on financial status of each Tier 1 purpose/program. This report represents the period from October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025. None of the current Purpose/Programs are currently under funded or behind schedule. Tier 1 Purpose/ Programs

Original Estimated Cost

Current Estimated Cost

Amount Expended in Prior Years

Amount Contracted in Fiscal Year 2025*

Amount Expended in Fiscal Year 2025

Operations/Safety

$11,000,000

$1,158,236

$2,064,150

$1,310,814

Pedestrian/Bike

$6,000,000

$658,963

$1,601,337

$548,376

Bridges

$4,000,000

$803,791

Maintenance/Safety

$8,000,000

$2,342,791

$1,595,409

$1,284,569

Quick Response

$1,000,000

$238,988

$186,215

Program Management

$657,809

$76,503

Tier 1 Total Costs

$30,657,809

$5,621,590

$5,499,884

$3,046,477

FY2025 Contracted Amount for Operations/Safety – $2,064,150 · Cox Road Intersection Improvements – Design, Right-of- Way (ROW) · Traffic Signal Preemption – Design · Redd Road Corridor – Design · Safe Streets for All – Design · SR 372 Operation and Safety Improvements – Design · Webb at Cogburn – Design, ROW

FY2025 Contracted Amount for Pedestrian/Bike Improvements – $1,601,337 · SR 372 RRFBs – Construction · SR 372 Sidewalk Gaps – Design, Construction · MCPP and Sidewalk Project – Design, Construction

FY2025 Contracted Amount for Maintenance/Safety – $1,595,409 · Guardrail Improvements – Construction · FY23 & FY24 Asphalt Reconstruction & Resurfacing – Construction · FY 25 Asphalt Reconstruction & Resurfacing – Construction

FY2025 Contracted Amount for Quick Response – $238,988 · Quick turn around low cost- Design, Construction *Contracted figures do not include actual Right of Way (ROW) property purchases or salary and benefits for TSPLOST funded inspector

12 | December 25, 2025 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

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Northern Ridge District names November-December Eagle Scouts ALPHARETTA, Ga.— The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District (cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton) has announced its newest Eagle Scouts who completed their Eagle Board of Review on Dec. 4 at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church. Top row, from left Owais Anwar, of Troop 12, sponsored by the Muslim American Society Youth Center. Owais’ project was the design and construction of three picnic tables for the Islamic Center of North Fulton. Ahyan Shaik, of Troop 12, sponsored by the Muslim American Society Youth Center. Ahyan’s project was the design and construction of six benches for the Hamzah Islamic Center. Adam Tayara, of Troop 87, sponsored by Roswell Presbyterian Church. Adam’s Project was the design and construction of four plant display tables and four benches for the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Jeevan Thomas, of Troop 69, sponsored by Alpharetta Methodist Church. Jeevan’s project was the design and construction of a brood box (where baby chicks stay during spring) at Old Rucker Farm. This Brood Box has two levels with heat lamps. Pablo Ochoa, of Troop 1134, sponsored by St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church. Pablo’s project was the design and construction of a stone firepit and a wooden wood rack for the Wildlife Action Campsite, in Acworth.

Bottom row, from left Manesha Buwaneka, of Troop 27, sponsored by the Johns Creek Christian Church. Manesha’s project was the design and construction of six wooden benches for the Georgia Buddhist Vihara. Graham Farrar, of Troop 629, sponsored by Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. Graham’s project was the design and construction of three rolling painting shelves with 10 places to put paintings, and the reorganization and creation of a labeling system for all the items located in the back storeroom for Furkids. Derrick Butler, of Troop 69, sponsored by Alpharetta Methodist Church. Derrick’s project was the design and construction of a standing whiteboard, three standup tables and repositioning the picnic tables at Providence Park. Manogna Baavesh, of Troop 2143, sponsored by The American Legion Post 251. Manogna’s project was the removal and then design and construction of three Little Libraries in the shape of a school bus, a clock tower, and a library with a bench attachment for Newtown Park. Manogna also held a book drive to stock the libraries. Tristan McCloskey, of Troop 1857, sponsored by the Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church. Tristan’s project was the refurbishment of the seating area for the tennis courts at Etowah High School, which included rebuilding tables, installing a handrail and replacing the fascia of the tennis team’s equipment shed.

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Alpha gal syndrome, also known as “red meat allergy,” is a disease on the rise. Sadly, a November 2025 publication describes the first well-documented death resulting from alpha gal syndrome. In the summer of 2024, a New Jersey-based airline pilot went camping with his family and suffered multiple bites believed to be either lone star tick larvae or nymphs which the family identified as “chiggers.” He and his family typically ate chicken. However, two weeks after camping, he ate a steak. Four hours later, he developed diarrhea, vomiting and such severe abdominal pain that he told his family “I thought I was going to die.” Symptoms lasted two hours, but the next day he felt so good that he saw no reason to seek medical attention. Two weeks later, he had an additional exposure to red meat. At a barbecue, he ate a hamburger. Four hours later, he became ill again. Within minutes, he was dead. Post-mortem blood testing revealed extremely high tryptase levels – consistent with an anaphylactic reaction, a severe type of allergic reaction in which difficulty breathing or a sudden drop in blood pressure can result in death. Alpha gal syndrome was first discovered around 2007 when a physician in Virginia identified that lone star tick bites could cause red meat allergy. A sugar called galactose-alpha 1,3-galactose (aka “alpha-gal”) is found in many types of mammal meat and dairy but not in humans, so humans can become allergic to this sugar if they are exposed in the right circumstance. A tick bite is just such a circumstance. Lone star ticks are on the rise. Expanding deer populations and tick populations are likely resulting in an increase in tick bites and disease in humans. Increased testing certainly plays a factor, but between 2013 and 2024, a 100-fold increase in positive test results for alpha-gal occurred, and the CDC estimates as many as half a million people may be affected by this disease. What makes the death of the New Jersey pilot so startling is the nature of the alpha gal allergic reaction. Most of the time, when we think of allergic

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reactions, we think of hives and rashes. If we think of death, we usually think of reactions such as those to peanuts which often involve difficulty breathing. The symptoms of the pilot would normally make someone worried for food poisoning or a severe stomach bug – not an allergy. But diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain can be signs of an allergy. With alpha gal on the rise, severe abdominal pain following red meat or dairy ingestion should raise concern for alpha gal syndrome, which we now know can be fatal. In the right context – a recent hike, camping trip or other potential exposure to ticks, someone with severe abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea should consider getting tested for alpha gal before ingesting red meat, dairy or other cross-reacting substances a second time. Reportedly, numerous individuals on Martha’s Vineyard are now unwillingly having to live essentially a vegan lifestyle due to the number of meat and dairy products that they now must avoid. Deer, ticks and alpha gal are on the rise and apparently here to stay. As a Mohs surgeon and dermatologist, I have learned that the beach-goer has more to fear from the Sun in the sky than from a shark in the water. As someone who loves the great outdoors, I would add that I am more afraid of the tick on the leaf than the bear in the woods. If you, like me, have ever been sun-kissed or tick-bitten and are concerned about tick-born illness, Premier Dermatology is here to help.

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16 | December 25, 2025 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

OPINION

Recounting a true Christmas story from 1946 Much of Europe was in shambles at the end of World War II. Food was scarce, heating and gasoline were rare commodities, and many were without shelter. After the war, America helped RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus rebuild Europe ray@appenmedia.com under the Marshall Plan. Hundreds of American companies were contracted to participate in the rebuilding efforts overseas – including the one involved in this account, J.A. Jones Construction Company, then based out of Charlotte, North Carolina, with concerns in, among other places, Poland. On the particular night in point, an engineer was working late. His company’s contract was one of the largest in their history and the assignment to get the job done on time had been given to a hard-driving German immigrant with a reputation for meeting deadlines. The engineer had already successfully led the company’s Liberty ship building efforts in Panama City in 1942 that reduced the amount of time required to build a Liberty ship from 134 days to 41. He had also helped guide the company’s efforts in Oak Ridge, Tennes-

Editor’s note: This column first ran Dec. 22 2005. see, on the Manhattan Project – which ultimately produced the atomic bombs that ended the war. But now he was behind schedule, which was not OK. It was Christmas Eve 1946, somewhere in postwar Poland. The engineer was working into the night to find a way to catch up. At home about 25 kilometers away, the engineer’s wife and two young children waited. Snow fell outside. It was bitterly cold. The children played near a fire. The engineer labored over blueprints and concentrated. Crews, equipment, supplies of petrol and steel and transportations problems reeled through his mind as he worked out a plan. He had responsibilities and a job to do. A noise outside the office distracted him. The cleaning “staff,” which consisted of a boy from the village, moved about the office. The “boy,” as the engineer thought of him, was actually a German war refugee in his early 20s with a young family. The engineer had created the cleaning job for him to try to help. Jobs were scarce in Poland in 1946, but so was money. The night before, the boy had not finished the cleaning and had been

reprimanded. “Don’t forget the last offices on the right and don’t go home until everything is finished,” the engineer had said. He didn’t have time to manage a cleaning boy when he had deadlines to meet for a major construction project. And he wouldn’t accept unfinished work – no matter how small. Priorities, for the engineer, were always clear. Time passed. Europe was rebuilt. Three or four wars passed – depending on how you count them. Fast-forward 46 years. I answered the phone at my home in Alpharetta. It was December 1992. A voice, which I recognized as belonging to an old man, asked to speak with Mr. Appen. “Speaking,” I replied. The voice continued. “I apologize for calling but ‘just in case,’ I did. I saw your name in the phone directory and are you possibly related to H.V. Appen?” he asked. “Yes,” I answered. “He was my grandfather.” I heard a sigh on the other end of the phone and then there was a long silence. My senses were on edge and I could not imagine what this call could possibly be about. H.V. had lived larger than life to me and still does. This call was so soon after his death. The voice on the other end of the phone continued. “I knew your grandfather a long time ago. In Poland. Not a week goes by that I don’t think of him and finding you in the phone book is

more than I can believe.” His voice broke and grew softer. “You see, on Christmas Eve 1946, I was working for your grandfather and he called me into his office. I thought that he was going to fire me because I had not finished the job the previous day. He was a hard man to work for, you know. He told me to go get his car and to drive. I didn’t know what to think and I was frightened,” he said. The man continued. “That night, your grandfather took me out and bought Christmas presents for me and my entire family. At the time, we had absolutely nothing. We were not even going to have a Christmas dinner. He bought that, too. We drove back to my house and he dropped me off. It was a Christmas that I will never forget as long as I live. So, when I saw your name in the phone directory, I just had to call you. I am so happy to be able to tell you how grateful I am to your grandfather.” We spoke for a few more minutes then hung up. In silence I replayed the conversation in my mind – several times, and then smiled. “How grateful I am to you,” I thought. “What a priceless Christmas gift you have just given me.” Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all. Ray Appen, Publisher Emeritus. In memory of my grandfather, H.V. Appen, who always kept his priorities straight.

Sharing holiday thoughts on friends in far places It’s Christmastime, the season of light and love and giving, the time when Christians celebrate the birth of a baby who changed the world. There’s a lot of talk about that baby at this time of STEVE HUDSON year, for when he Columnist grew up he had some things to say that we all might do well to hear. Everything slows down at Christmas, it seems. Almost magically, we seem to get the gift of time to enjoy those things that make life rich and full and good. Some of those things are big. But others, though less big, are just as fun — and for me, one of the “funnest of the fun” is the opportunity that Christmas always seems to provide to spend some focused time in the world of ham radio. Yeah, ham radio — the hobby where you “throw radio waves into the ether” (that’s what hams say when they get poetic about bouncing radio-frequency signals off various layers of the iono-

sphere) and then talk to other similarlyafflicted hams once the waves come back to earth. As a way to communicate, some say it’s an anachronism. But it’s an anachronism that works for me. What is it about hamming that so holds my imagination? I’m not sure. Maybe it’s just the chance to talk oneon-one to folks around the country and around the world. We need more of that, don’t you think? I’ve mentioned before that one thing I enjoy about “hamming” these days is something called “Parks on the Air.” It’s a thing where hams all over the country and around the world talk to other hams who are operating in certain designated parks (known as “entities”). The ones who operate from the entities are called “activators,” while the ones who try to contact those activators are called “hunters.” I’ve done both, and it’s all a huge amount of fun. One thing that makes being an activator fun is that it gives me an excuse to track down and visit places I might not otherwise see. I’ve been fortunate to take my little portable radio to parks across the country and in Europe too.

Each time I’ve done it, I crossed cultural boundaries and made new friends in far-flung places. It’s fun. It really is. One day not long ago, I set out to activate a designated Parks on the Air entity that I’d never activated before — the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail. The entire Trail of Tears National Historic Trail is considered to be a park entity for Parks on the Air purposes. This historic trail reminds one and all of the route followed by Native Americans as they were driven from their ancestral homelands in what is now the southeastern United States to mandated reservations far to the west. It was an arduous and excruciating journey, by all accounts, and a tragic example of what can happen when the lust for land (and gold) overcomes nobler callings. As I looked into the official trail route in more detail (and you can have a look yourself by visiting www.nps. gov/places/trail-of-tears-national-historic-trail.htm), I found to my surprise that parts of it were just a stone’s throw from home. Now that was news. In fact, it turns out that one of the trail’s feeder routes follows (of all things) part of Georgia

Highway 20, the very same highway which nowadays seems to be in a perpetual state of construction. So, I investigated further, and here’s what I found. Starting just a little way north and east of where we live, I learned, a Trail of Tears feeder route follows Georgia 20 westward for a ways — though of course it’s the other way round, with Georgia 20 following the route of the Trail. It didn’t take long to pinpoint several spots along the route where I could pull off the highway and do a little Parks on the Air activating. All I needed was the right opportunity, and that came my way just a few days ago. When I do a Parks on the Air “activation,” I use a little battery-powered radio and a portable antenna that I can set up in minutes. Sometimes I operate using Morse code. But other times I use voice. That’s what I decided to do that particular day, for sometimes it’s just nice to hear the voices of the people you meet on the air. Arriving at my chosen spot, I quickly set up the station and put out a call.

See FRIENDS, Page 20

AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 25, 2025 | 17

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON TIP YOUR NEWSPAPER DELIVERY PERSON Your local community newspaper lands in your driveway every week—rain or shine—bringing you the stories, events, and updates that matter most. But did you know that the person delivering it is often a dedicated individual who goes the extra mile (literally) to ensure you stay connected? Why Tip? • Show Appreciation: Your delivery person is out there early in the morning or late at night, navigating all kinds of weather, so you can enjoy the news with your morning coffee. • Support Local Efforts: While the paper might be free, the effort behind it isn’t. Tipping helps reward those who keep this vital community service running smoothly. • Brighten Their Day: A small tip can make a big difference in someone’s day, showing gratitude for their hard work and dedication. If you enjoy receiving your free community newspaper, consider giving a small token of appreciation to the person who brings it to your driveway. A little kindness can go a long way! Thank you for supporting your local delivery heroes! How to give your delivery person a tip:

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18 | December 25, 2025 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

PAST TENSE

OPINION

Area residents recall memorable Christmases Larkin Head’s grandparents, Roy and Pamela Head, once owned acreage on both sides of Chamblee Dunwoody Road. One year, Larkin’s parents bought a piano for Christmas. He remembers, “…in the mad rush to get to our presents under the tree, the piano was overlooked.” His mother VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF asked if there was something the children were not seeing. Columnist Larkin’s grandmother taught all the granddaughters how to play the piano. Fred Donaldson, friend and neighbor from down the road, shared memories of singing by the piano along with Larkin’s Uncle Bill. Grandmother Head played the piano and instructed the boys to sing. Chris Curth of Sandy Springs remembers participating in the annual Christmas play at Annie Houze Cook Kindergarten. The kindergarten was in Providence Methodist Church, now Misty Creek Community Church. Curth recalls he “…was one of the wise men, and as we walked down the aisle in our costumes we sang “We Three Kings.” He has fond memories of Annie Houze Cook. Jean Fallon shared her 1996 Olympics experience with me several years ago. She hosted the North Korean delegation at her home. Later, she shared memories of December 1941 when the U.S. entered World War II. “I was 10 years old and concerned that my daddy

would have to become a soldier but was relieved to hear he had been too young for WW1 and was too old for WWII,” she said. Fallon recalled the shortages of food that went along with rationing. The family used a new “fake butter” product called Nucoa. She remembered gasoline shortages and not being able to participate in her school play because her family could not use the gas to drive three miles to school for play rehearsals. There was also a lot of vegetable soup served in the school cafeteria. “But the sacrifices were shared by all, and we got through it together,” said Fallon. Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Tom Keating, who has collaborated with me on Lawson General Hospital history, shared his favorite Christmas memory. “It was an uneventful tour as hospital duty officer during Christmas 1975 at Womack Army Hospital, Fort Bragg, N.C.,” he said. “I was standing at my duty station adjoining the busy Emergency Department when 1st Lt. Carolyn Kraft, a very pretty army nurse, suddenly appeared. Fifty years later, she is still with me. I am so blessed.” The couple will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in 2026. 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.

LARKIN HEAD/PROVIDED

Larkin Head and big sister Pam in 1951 in the yard of their grandmother’s home on Chamblee Dunwoody Road.

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Puzzles

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Each line in the puzzle below 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 5, 5 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!

Milton Herald .........................................December 25, 2025 | 19

FLOWER POWER 1. New Hampshire’s state flower. Chicago team. Big fight. 2. Wine bottle measure. Valentine’s Day flower. Same. 3. Joint. Greek liqueur. Beautiful flower of unusual shapes and colors. 4. Like many a cellar. Indiana’s state flower. Calamari fish. 5. Type of daisy. Mistake. Rhine tributary. 6. Showy rayed variously colored flower. Police action. Mistique. 7. Quarrel. Charity. Old maid flower. PuzzleJunction.com

2 3 4 5 6

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Flower Power 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 1. Hampshire’s flower. team. letter Big fight. the New first letter of the secondstate answer, and so Chicago on. The connecting 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 2.ToWine bottle measure. Valentine’s Day flower. Same. solve the Sudoku puzzle, column for the 3 answers on the line. But each here’s row, the catch! Theand clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually must contain the numbers to line. 9.flower bebox for the second or liqueur. third answer in 1that Got it?ofGood luck! shapes 3. Joint. Greek Beautiful unusual and colors.

4. Like many a cellar. Indiana’s state flower. Calamari fish.

3 6. Showy rayed variously colored flower. Police action. 3 Mistique. 8 6 1 7. Quarrel. 6 Charity. Old7maid flower. 4 3 1 1 7 8 3 4 5 1 7 4 How to Solve: Kakuro, also known as Cross Sums, is a challenging number puzzle, solved in a crossword style grid. 5 8 2 7 6 The rules are easy: A number above the diagonal line in a 5. Type of daisy. Mistake. Rhine tributary.

How to Solve: To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

black square is the sum of the white squares to the right of it. A number below the diagonal line is the sum of the white squares in the sequence below it. You may only use the digits 1 to 9, and a digit can only be used once in any sequence.

Dunwoody Crier 12/25/25 Crossword

Across

1 Resinous deposit 4 Uncle of note 7 Fire remnant 10 “The ___” (Uris novel) 13 Swelled head 14 Wood sorrel 15 Buck’s mate 16 Harem room 17 Home appliances 19 Made a faux pas 21 Clothes presser 22 Gr. letter 24 Paris bisector 25 Psyches 27 Footwear 30 Greek salad cheese 32 Hang 33 Morsel 36 Ancient Greek epic poet 37 Let happen 39 Before, in poetry 41 “The Name of the Rose” writer 42 Rocky peak 44 Dudgeon 45 Drone, e.g. 46 Almond 47 Cutlery piece 49 Identical 51 Patch up 53 Actress Sommer of A Shot in the Dark 54 Maid’s target 55 Sleep disorder 57 Compass pt. 58 Have a hunch 61 Hankering 63 Misplace 67 Cook’s short cut 70 Reindeer locale

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22 25

36 42 47

9 3 8 7 4 2 6 1 5

7 2 6 5 1 8 3 9 4

5 4 1 6 3 9 2 7 8

3 8 2 4 7 6 9 5 1

1 5 7 8 9 3 4 6 2

4 6 9 2 5 1 7 8 3

29 34

52 55

72 Epoch 73 Debate position 74 Cheer starter 75 Wool weight 76 Engine part 77 Got an eyeful 78 ___ Baba 79 SHO alternative Down 1 Son of Leah 2 Lab gel 3 Designer Chanel 4 Old French coin 5 High points 6 Sail holder 7 Commercials 8 Peruvian coin 9 Bank job

10 Pueblo Indian 11 Yemeni city 12 Nephrite 18 Come together 20 Cancún coin 23 Genesis victim 26 Pub game 28 Scanning the browser 29 Fragrance 30 Photog’s aim 31 Ham it up 32 Type of board 34 Picture puzzle 35 Pick up the tab 36 Egg protector 38 Garden intruders 40 Aquarium denizen 43 Dentist’s request

48 Approve 50 Suppress, as an uprising 52 Type of cycle 56 Henhouse sounds 57 Escargot 58 Trade punches 59 Hence 60 Require 62 Born Free lioness 64 Pledge 65 Kind of appeal 66 Taro root 68 Coach Parseghian 69 Haul 71 Pressure unit (Abbr.)

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20 | December 25, 2025 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

Continued from Page 16 Within minutes, I heard the first stations calling me. There was Ian in Wisconsin, followed by Tom in Colorado and Paul in Florida and someone else (Mark, if I remember right?) in Montana. And then came a call from a more exotic call sign. It had the sound of distance to it, that slightly feathery sound of a radio signal from far, far away, and as I listened I suddenly recognized it as a station in Venezuela! The ether was smiling on me, it seemed, for there’s nothing like contacting a station in another country to remind you that ham radio really is a hobby without borders. Hearing that call from far beyond the horizon made this ol’ heart beat a little faster, and I pressed the headphones closer to my ears. The operator on the other end, I soon learned, was named John. His home was in Caracas. We spoke for a few minutes, and a few minutes more, but then the ether began to do what the ether often does as something changed up there in the ionosphere. The invisible waves that connected us began to waver and shift. The signal began to fade, and in

Roswell Reads schedules 2 events by noted author By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI newsroom@appenmedia.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Reads, in partnership with Roswell Cultural Arts and Bookmiser, is doubling up on author events Jan. 10. The “One City, One Read” program will host Paula McLain, the New York Times bestselling author of “The Paris Wife” and eight other titles, for two literary offerings on the same day. The author of six novels, two poetry collections and a memoir, McLain’s work has been published in more than 35 countries and featured in the New York Times, The Guardian, Town & Country and elsewhere. Her latest novel, “Skylark,” will be released just four days earlier. To celebrate, Roswell Reads has lined up a pair of presentations on Jan. 10, both at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. During a Writer to Writer event at 9:30 a.m., the Ohio-based author will explore her historical research process and the decision to structure “Skylark” using a dual timeline. At 2 p.m., McLain will discuss “Skylark,” a mesmerizing tale of Paris above and below, where a woman’s quest for artistic freedom in 1664 intertwines with a doctor’s dangerous mission during the German occupation in the 1940s. Ticket options and details are below, along with other January events. Thursday-Friday, Jan. 8-9, George Weinstein, Atlanta Writers Club executive director, selling and personalizing books at Kroger, 12460 Crabapple Road, Alpharetta. Free. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. both days. georgeweinstein.com Saturday, Jan. 10, Paula McLain spotlighting “Skylark” during two Roswell Reads activities at the Roswell

Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. Tickets for the 9:30 a.m. Writer to Writer event are $15. The main presentation will follow at 2 p.m. Tickets are $35 and include an autographed and/or personalized hardback copy of “Skylark,” priority seating and a photo with McLain. General admission tickets are $15. roswellcac.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=225 Saturday, Jan. 10, Vanessa Riley debuting her novel, “Fire Sword and Sea,” with copies sold by Johns Creek Books. 3 p.m. Free. Gwinnett County Snellville Library, 2245 Wisteria Drive SW, Snellville. Thursday, Jan. 22, Dreams Workshop with author Michelle Wilson. Focused on crafting a goal-oriented vision board, the workshop is based on Wilson’s book, “So I Can Love You Longer.” 4 p.m. Free. Forsyth County Post Road Library, 5010 Post Road, Cumming. forsythpl.org/event/15025014 Tuesday, Jan. 27, Lynn Cullen launching her latest historical fiction novel, “When We Were Brilliant,” based on Marilyn Monroe’s friendship with the documentary photographer Eve Arnold. 6 p.m. Free. Presented by Bookmiser with and at the Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton. bookmiser.net/ events.html Friday, Saturday and Monday, Jan. 30, 31 and Feb. 2, Friends of the Roswell Library Book Sale. See website for hours and details. Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell. 404-612-9700. forl.net. Saturday, Jan. 31, meet Piper Huguley, author of “American Daughters” and “By Her Own Design.” Bookmiser and Friends of the Sandy Springs Library will host Huguley at 2 p.m. Free. Sandy Springs Library, 395 Mount Vernon Highway NE, Sandy Springs. bookmiser.net/events.html

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a moment it was over and John was gone. From where he sat, I knew, I was gone too. Venezuela, I decided, was a nice note to end on. So I took down the antenna and packed up the radio and turned the car toward home. On the drive back, I reflected on the magic that had drawn me to ham radio in the first place all those years ago — the magic of talking one-to-one to a fellow soul partway around the world, with nothing in between except some friendly atmospherics and a measure of magic that I still find hard to define. I couldn’t wait to recount the story when I got home. A little bit later I pulled into the driveway, turned off the car, and went inside to warmth and home. I walked into the living room. The TV was on, and I heard her in the kitchen putting the finishing touches on our supper. But before I could tell her, the TV caught my attention. I heard the word “Venezuela” and stopped to listen. A talking head was saying something about military stuff, something about naval warships and fighter jets and a tanker seized at sea. I saw video of a boarding party fast-roping from a helicopter. I saw weapons at the ready. Later, in the days that followed, I heard heated rhetoric. I heard questions about further seizures and arguments attempting justification. I heard declarations of resistance. I heard words hinting at targeted air assaults and even ground action. I heard all of that right in the middle of the season of hope and joy and the brotherhood of all. And I thought about the things that the baby said once he grew up, the things he told us are important. “Supper is ready,” I heard my wife call. As I fixed my place, I thought again of John, a fellow ham radio operator and fellow human being in Venezuela. Happy Christmas, my friend. May we speak again in the new year. Till then, be well. And take care.

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AppenMedia.com/Milton | Milton Herald | December 25, 2025 | 21

County: Continued from Page 4 Rice Street fire update County Manager Dick Anderson said newly available beds, freed up by the ongoing “jail blitz,” are being used to house inmates displaced by the Dec. 12 fire at the Rice Street jail. Anderson said county staff will present a bond issuance proposal in January for its new 1,800-bed mental health facility and Rice Street renovations, estimated to cost around $1.1 billion. Later in the meeting, commissioners approved a roughly $1 million contract with Johnson Controls to cover year-end jail maintenance costs as a part of the ongoing blitz project. “The jail population is remaining steady at 2,958, more being released in this last month than brought in,” Anderson said. “There is an uptick in use of the diversion center, 224 diversions, that’s also positive, and 514 on electronic monitoring. So, we continue to look for and support alternatives to incarceration.” During the justice system discussion, commissioners encouraged county staff to increase usage of the electronic monitoring and Policing Alternatives & Diversion programs to drive down the jail population. Fulton County DREAM Director Joe Davis, overseeing the real estate and asset management department, said the fallout from the Dec. 12 fire is “probably

the most significant in terms of damage” that he has seen since joining the county in 2006. An arson investigation is ongoing, Davis said. “We have extensive damage not only to the area where the fire was set, the shower, but extreme smoke that covered all surfaces in the area, as well as the flames reaching up to the ceiling, burning through the ceiling tiles, affecting wiring and mechanical equipment,” Davis said. “We’ve begun the initial restoration work … but we have a great deal more work to do.” Davis said phase one of the “jail blitz” will wrap up in January, and then the second phase will begin. The average length of stay at Rice Street is 205 days, county staff reported, which has remained consistent throughout the year. Before the fire, more than 500 inmates were unindicted or unaccused. Justice System Programs Director Steve Nawrocki said the number of people admitted to the diversion center is increasing. However, he said daily intake at the Diversion Center is averaging just 20 percent of the program’s capacity. “Meetings between the Public Defender’s office and the District Attorney’s office have ceased,” Nawrocki said. “I think that’s kind of limited the pipeline of [electronic] monitors that are being applied, but we certainly encourage usage … any strategy again to reduce the jail population for those appropriate that shouldn’t really be in the jail.”

City of Milton Notice of Meetings and Public Hearings for a Use Permit Case #U25-03/VC25-01 Location: 13010 Morris Road and Tax Parcels 22 544011150423, 22 544011150456 Current Zoning: T6 – Deerfield Form Based Code Applicant: Deerfield CC Delaware, LLC Request: For a Use Permit for Multifamily (Sec. 8.3.1.I of the UDC) in order to accommodate a mixed-use development on 24.92 acres to develop multifamily residential units, townhouse units, loft apartments, and retail space along with two, existing six-story buildings and a concurrent variance to reduce the number of parking spaces required by Sec. 9.1.2. of the UDC. The above item will be considered at the following meetings/public hearings: Design Review Board Meeting Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Special Called Planning Commission Meeting Public Hearing Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Mayor and City Council Public Hearing Monday, February 2, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Location: Milton City Hall 2006 Heritage Walk Milton, GA 30004

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, January 5, 2026 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-26-AB-01 – RAM0905 LLC dba Extramile for a license to sell Wine and Malt Beverages for Retail Package Sales, and for Sunday Sales of same, at its place of business located at 13625 Arnold Mill Road, Roswell, Georgia 30075 (located within Milton City limits). PH-26-AB-02 – Yum Thai and Sushi LLC dba Yum! Thai Cuisine & Bar 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 3100 Heritage Walk, Suite 102, Milton, Georgia 30004. Invitation to Bid Demolition of Multiple Structures & Asbestos Remediation ITB NUMBER 26-PW02 Bid Due Date: January 14, 2026, by 2:00PM Local Time Electronic submission via: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bidsrfps Bid submissions 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 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 qualified parties to provide construction services for the demolition and asbestos remediation of multiple structures at multiple city-owned properties. All qualified bids will receive consideration without regard to age, handicap, religion, creed or belief, political affiliation, race, color, sex, or national origin. The plans. and specifications can be found in the solicitation of bids posted on the websites below. A bid bond of 5% is required when submitting bid response. The request for electronic bids for ITB 26-PW02, Demolition of Multiple Structures & Asbestos Remediation will be posted on the following websites the week of December 11, 2025: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bids-rfps and https://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/gpr/

22 | December 25, 2025 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

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Infor (US), LLC has an opening for a Senior Cloud DBA – OpenEdge in Alpharetta, GA. Create and maintain system documentation, diagrams, and runbooks. Manage and administer Progress OpenEdge databases across a fleet of development, QA, and production environments. Automate routine DBA tasks using shell scripts. 100% telecommuting permitted. How to apply: E-mail resume, referencing IN1070, including job history, to careers@infor.com. EOE.

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Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Free quote. Ask about first application special! 833-860-0811 Peace of mind & early detection-Now more than ever, it’s important to get screened for Stroke & Cardiovascular Disease risk. Life LineScreening is simple & painless. 833-970-4172

24 | December 25, 2025 | Milton Herald | AppenMedia.com/Milton

THE CUENY TEAM REAL ESTAT ESTATE PARTNERS

Home for the Holidays Starts Here MAKING YOUR NEXT MOVE MERRY, BRIGHT, AND BEAUTIFULLY SIMPLE.

WE KNOW HOW TO NAVIGATE EVERY STEP IN YOUR NEXT REAL ESTATE JOURNEY.

THE CUENY TEAM c. 404.695.7040 | o. 770.284.9900 | Andrea@AnsleyRE.com ANSLEYRE.COM | 31 CHURCH STREET, ALPHARETTA, GA 30009 | 770.284.9900 All data believed to be accurate but not warranted. Ansley upholds Equal Housing Opportunity & Federal Fair Housing policies. If you have an existing relationship with another brokerage, this is not intended as a solicitation.