Shows
Milton and ManeCommunity Impact: Unexpected Lessons From a Summer at City HallSend us a textWhat happens when you place two talented college students at the heart of local government for a summer? As it turns out, a whole lot more than coffee runs and filing paperwork.You might remember Luke and Maddie from an earlier episode, the bright minds behind some of Milton's most impactful summer projects. In this special season finale episode, they share all the details of their comprehensive internship experience."Every hour that I was here was impactful," shares Maddie, reflecting on how the experience exceeded her expectations. "It wasn't...
2025-09-1732 min
Milton and ManeThe Power of Connection: A real conversation about mental wellnessSend us a textThe silence around mental health is beginning to break, and Teressa Ruspi is one of the voices leading the way. In this conversation, she opens up about the personal loss that inspired her to create the LRJ Foundation and how that journey has grown into a mission reaching tens of thousands. With honesty and compassion, Teressa challenges harmful myths, shares her perspective on the importance of education, and reminds us of the life-changing power of connection. This episode is about awareness, resilience, and the simple truth that talking about mental health can save...
2025-09-0552 min
Milton and ManeHelping Seniors Thrive: How one non-profit supports our aging communitySend us a textIn this episode, Tanya Morris and Heather Terry from Senior Services North Fulton (SSNF) share how this nonprofit helps seniors with the common challenges of aging while remaining independent. From Meals on Wheels (for people and pets), to transportation for medical appointments, to seven senior centers offering fitness, art, and social connection, SSNF is a vital resource for older adults across our community.The conversation also touches on the rise of scams targeting seniors and offers practical steps families can take to stay protected. As a nonprofit, SSNF depends...
2025-08-2051 min
Milton and ManeEvent-Full Season Ahead: What to do, where to be, and when to go!Send us a textMilton’s fall and winter event calendar is packed and we’re giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how it all comes together. In this episode, host Christy Weeks sits down with Emily Salerno, the force behind many of Milton’s signature community events. From Halloween fun to holiday cheer, and even a sneak peek at some brand-new happenings, Emily shares what makes these events more than just dates on a calendar. Whether you're a longtime attendee or planning your first outing, this conversation will leave you inspired to mark your calendar and make s...
2025-08-0642 min
Milton and ManeThe Fall Forecast: High Chance of FunSend us a textThis episode is your all-access pass to the fun, fitness, and friendships waiting in Milton’s Parks and Rec world. Host Christy Weeks sits down with three members of the Parks and Rec team, Micaela Burke, Thomas Rhodes, and Matthew Graney, to talk about the programs, people, and behind-the-scenes magic that make it all happen. Whether you're chasing toddler energy, looking for a new hobby, or hoping to connect with neighbors, this department has something for you. From packed sports programs and creative kids’ classes to unique adult groups and senior socials, there’s some...
2025-07-2336 min
Milton and ManeWhen Nature Strikes: Managing Milton's Emergency ResponseSend us a textIn this episode, Division Chief Jason Baswell of Milton Fire-Rescue walks us through how the City of Milton prepares for emergency situations and what residents can do to stay safe. From the city's multi-layered alert systems, including tornado sirens and Everbridge notifications, to the coordinated efforts of the Emergency Operations Center, Jason explains how different departments come together when disaster strikes. He also shares insight into Milton’s unique risks, especially when it comes to severe weather and our heavily wooded landscape.But emergency response isn’t just the city’s respon...
2025-07-0951 min
Milton and ManeRight People, Right Culture: The real work behind a great workplaceSend us a textWhat makes people stay in a job for nearly two decades? In this episode, longtime City of Milton employees Matt Marietta and Jeanette “JC” Citta share what it’s really like to help build a local government from the ground up and why they’ve never left. From folding tables and borrowed office space to shaping a culture rooted in purpose and people, Matt and JC offer a rare inside look at how Milton became the kind of workplace (and city) people are proud to be part of. It’s an honest, tho...
2025-06-2534 min
Milton and ManeLecture Hall to City Hall: Meet Milton's Summer InternsSend us a textWhat brings bright, ambitious college students to spend their summer working in local government? In this eye-opening first installment of our "Intern Series," we sit down with Maddie and Luke, two standout college students from the University of Georgia spending their summer working with the City of Milton. They share what inspired them to pursue public service, from a passion for civic storytelling to a drive to strengthen communities through thoughtful research. Their enthusiasm, paired with a deep sense of purpose, sets the tone for a season of growth, connection, and meaningful work.
2025-06-1137 min
Milton and ManeThe Weight They Carry: First Responders and PTSDSend us a textEvery call, every save, every loss, first responders carry more than we see. In this powerful episode, Milton Police Officer Dennis Pishock opens up about the toll PTSD takes on those in emergency service, drawing from over two decades as a firefighter and law enforcement officer.Dennis shares his own story with raw honesty, from growing up with a veteran father who never spoke of war to confronting his own trauma after years of crisis response. He reflects on the mental burden of always moving to the next emergency without time...
2025-05-3048 min
Milton and ManeLet's Talk Parks: Fields of Fun with Tom & Micaela!Send us a textThe fun in Milton is growing, and this episode gives you a peek at what’s coming next. Parks and Rec Director Tom McKlveen and Specialist Micaela Burke join host Christy Weeks to talk about two big projects: a long-awaited new park in Deerfield and major upgrades at Milton City Park and Preserve.You’ll hear how community input, creative planning, and a lot of heart are shaping the future of recreation in our city. From ballfields to playgrounds to pool parties, this one’s packed with reasons to get outside and ge...
2025-05-1434 min
Milton and ManeWhen Trust Becomes the Target: Real Victims. Real Scams. Real Solutions.Send us a textNobody thinks they'll fall for a scam—until it happens. In this episode, Detective Sarah Moore of the Milton Police Department joins host Christy Weeks to talk about the shocking rise in elder fraud, the emotional toll it takes, and the most common (and oddly clever) scams targeting our seniors.From fake grandkids to funeral scams, this episode pulls no punches—and offers real, practical ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.Listen now and learn how to spot the signs before it's too late.#MiltonAndMane #Elde...
2025-04-3040 min
Milton and ManeWild at Heart: When One Person’s Passion Guides Tomorrow’s Adventurers.Send us a textWhat happens when a deep love of the outdoors becomes a mission to connect an entire community with nature? Ranger Jen Young joins host Christy Weeks to share how Milton's Parks and Rec team is making the natural world more accessible, educational, and exciting for everyone. From birding apps and stargazing tools to frog facts and first-fish stories, this episode is packed with inspiration and a whole lot of fun. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, an avid outdoorsy type, or a curious newbie, you'll come away ready to explore more—right in...
2025-04-2339 min
Milton and ManeBridging the Gap: Building Trust Through Real Connection.Send us a textWelcome Back!In this episode of Milton & Mane, we sit down with Officer Rebecca Tidwell to explore how community outreach continues to cultivate how Milton connects with its police department. From mentoring teens to equipping parents and empowering women, Tidwell shares how impactful face-to-face engagement is reshaping perceptions and building trust. Whether through a conversation over coffee or a hands-on academy experience, the Milton Police Department is showing up in meaningful ways—and residents are responding. Tune in to hear how these efforts are creating lasting bonds and...
2025-04-1627 min
Milton and ManePast Meets Present: The Path to Progress and PreservationSend us a textWe are back with the last installment from the Milton Historical Society! In the previous two episodes, we recounted many pivotal moments in Milton's history—ultimately going from rural farmland to a now thriving community—this transformation tells a quintessentially American story of progress, preservation, and purposeful growth.In this episode, we will get some insight from Jeff Dufresne and Lynn Tinley, on how Georgia 400 changed many things, how a grassroots movement led to cityhood, and how Milton continues to balance growth with a deep commitment to greenspace, community chara...
2025-04-0926 min
Milton and ManeServing Those Who Serve: Milton First Responders FoundationSend us a textThe strength of a community isn’t just in its infrastructure—it’s in how it supports those who protect it. In this episode, we sit down with Brian Dolan and Robyn Pinto of the Milton First Responders Foundation (MFRF) to explore the incredible ways this all-volunteer organization has spent the last decade providing for Milton’s police officers and firefighters. From financial assistance and educational grants to groundbreaking mental health support, MFRF ensures first responders, and their families never face challenges alone. Plus, a new opportunity under Georgia’s tax credit prog...
2025-04-0239 min
Milton and ManeBuilding Milton: Hard Times & Tough Choices (Part 2/3)Send us a textHow did your hometown survive America’s toughest times? This episode uncovers Milton County’s hidden history, from Civil War struggles to the Great Depression. Jeff DuFresne and Lynn Tinley with The Milton Historical Society are back. The two continue to reveal the untold stories of divided loyalties, economic hardships, and the resilience that shaped Milton’s identity. While many assume North Georgia was fully aligned with the Confederacy, Milton County tells a more complicated story—one of reluctant soldiers, struggling families, and a community forced to adapt. From the devastation of war to...
2025-03-2620 min
Milton and ManeMore Than Fires: Community, Service, & SafetySend us a textMilton Fire Rescue is more than just a response team—it’s redefining community protection under Chief Gabe Benmoussa. With 25 years of experience, he has transformed the department into one of only 310 internationally accredited fire agencies, pioneering solutions tailored to Milton’s unique needs.From the Technical Large Animal Rescue team to fire blankets at EV charging stations, Milton Fire Rescue stays ahead of emerging challenges. Its Community Paramedic Program proactively cares for vulnerable residents, while its advanced life support capabilities contribute to a cardiac arrest save rate above the national averag...
2025-03-1934 min
Milton and ManeMilton Takes the Wheel: The Highway 9 ProjectSend us a textWhen construction on Highway 9 stopped last summer, Milton residents noticed. What they couldn't see was the extraordinary opportunity emerging from this unexpected pause. In this revealing conversation with Public Works Director Sara Leaders, we explore how Milton turned a challenge into a chance to shape the future of this vital corridor.What initially seemed like a setback has evolved into something remarkable: Milton gaining more influence over a state highway project. Through persistent advocacy from city leadership and a productive partnership with GDOT, the city now has the ability to help...
2025-03-1223 min
Milton and ManeBuilding Milton: Vision, Conflict, and Change (Part 1/3)Send us a textStep into the fascinating history of Milton, Georgia, as we explore the layers of its rich narrative—from its unique founding as a safe haven for debtors to the transformative events that shaped its development. Host Christy Weeks dives deep into discussions with local historians Jeff Dufresne and Lynn Tinley, uncovering the stories behind Georgia’s past and the challenges faced by early settlers. Together, they dissect the vision of James Oglethorpe, who established a sanctuary for the underprivileged, and how this vision transitioned into a plantation economy that contradicted its original principles....
2025-03-0528 min
Milton and ManeCaring for Our Community: Inside Milton's CARES ProgramSend us a textIn this episode of Milton and Mane, we take a closer look at the CARES Program, a vital initiative designed to connect Milton residents with essential health resources. Join us as we explore the impact of community paramedicine, the power of proactive care, and how this program is redefining public safety. Guests Mark Haskins and Derek Hoffmann share their insights on bridging the gap between emergency services and preventative healthcare, highlighting real stories that showcase the program’s effectiveness. We also address common misconceptions about emergency calls and discuss how wellness visits and lo...
2025-02-2657 min
Milton and ManeThe Chief's Perspective: Policing and ProgressSend us a textThis episode features insights from Milton's Chief of Police, Jason Griffin, and City Manager, Steve Krokoff (also a former Milton Police Chief), on several issues that impact the community on a daily basis. From distracted driving to a definition of Strategic Policing, this episode covers a lot of ground and provides a basic framework for how the Milton Police Department serves and protects the citizens of Milton. We talk about: • The dangers of distracted driving • Technology's role in driving safety • Home security tips • The importance of community vigilance •...
2025-02-1946 min
Milton and ManeWho Runs the Fun? Inside Milton Parks & RecSend us a textMilton’s Parks and Recreation Department is more than just green spaces and sports leagues—it’s the heartbeat of community connection, wellness, and fun! In this episode, we sit down with the team that makes it all happen, exploring upcoming projects, athletic facility improvements, and the vision for inclusive playgrounds that welcome all abilities. We’ll also explore the many camps and programs available and discuss how parks serve as essential “third places” that bring the community together. Plus, get an inside look at the teamwork and collaboration that drive Parks & Rec’s s...
2025-02-1246 min
Milton and ManeAnd So It Begins: Meet Steve Krokoff - City ManagerSend us a textWelcome to Milton and Mane! This inaugural episode highlights what makes Milton unique: a steadfast commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing thoughtful growth and innovation. City Manager Steve Krokoff shares insights into his role in maintaining Milton's exceptional quality of life, showcasing the city's dynamic interactions with residents, entrepreneurs, and neighboring communities. Listeners will explore Milton's dedication to community engagement through active participation in committees, public projects, and strategic partnerships. From initiatives like Destination Deerfield to efforts to preserve historical charm, the discussion underscores how Milton balances its small-town essence w...
2025-01-3040 min