I know what you're thinking - November mayor's message ... giving thanks, talking turkey: one big, longwinded cliché. But let me try and change your mind.

A lot of people, all across the city and all across the board, economically and socially, have recently experienced tough times. And while things are slowly getting better - I think we're all thankful for that - the progress doesn't mean everything is fixed and back to normal.

In fact, what we considered normal before the downturn of 2008 might never come back - so it's time to reassess the situation and take stock of what matters now. It seems to me that it's exactly times like these when we need to open up our hearts, drop those cynical defenses, and be truthful about how lucky we are. I'll be the first.

Read the full message

The Milton High School Orchestra announced its fall concert, themed "Spooky, Scary & Downright Frightful," will be held Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Milton High School.
 
The evening includes an intermission with complimentary refreshments and snacks.
 
Adult tickets are $5. Student tickets are $3. They are available online at www.miltonorchestra.com without a convenience fee or other charges. Tickets will be mailed or delivered if time allows, otherwise they will be held at Will Call.

Listen to the Milton High School Orchestra at: http://www.youtube.com/miltonorchestra

This fall, Fulton County Schools will study whether it will ask the Georgia Department of Education to grant charter status to the entire school system. 

If granted, Fulton County will be the first large district in Georgia to become a charter system, which could mean more flexibility in spending, staffing, and innovation in its educational model.  It would also grant greater involvement and decision-making authority for parents.
 
Community engagement is a trademark of charter systems, and as such, the district is starting the exploration process by holding town hall-style meetings to gather input during the months of October and November.  Feedback will also be gathered through the school system web site.

The nearest meeting in November for many Milton residents will be at

On Saturday, Nov. 6 the Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub will host the "World's Hoppiest 5K Race" to benefit Milton-based Canine Assistants.

Registration begins at 8 p.m., and the race starts at 9 p.m.

As the race takes place at night, luminaries will light the way of this flat, fast course.

There will be a party after the race at Olde Blind Dog Pub with music and "hoppy" beverages afterward. Each runner of legal age receives a free beer.

Cost of participating is $30.

Please note there will be no parking at the pub. Please park at Crabapple First Baptist Church or Crabapple Crossing Elementary School.

Click here to sign up

White Columns Country Club will hold a junior tennis carnival on Saturday, Nov. 13.

The event is from noon to 3:30 p.m. Players ages 5 to 8 are invited from noon to 1:30, and older players up to age 13 may attend from 2  until 3:30 p.m. The times may change depending on the number of participants.

The cost for members of the tennis academy is $25. Non-members may also take part for $30. Cost includes pizza and soft drinks. Everyone must sign up and send payments in advance.

Kids ages 5-12 will have the opportunity to play tennis while having a blast!  There will be a "tennis pinata bust," music, and an opportunity to hit for prizes including free hats, T-shirts, autographed tennis memorabilia and much more.

This is truly an event your tennis child does not want to miss!

All levels, both members and non-members, are welcome as we will have numerous pro's to make sure everyone has a wonderful time.

The make up rain date is Saturday, Nov. 20

If you are interested in having your child participate, please contact Trevor Short at Tennis6688@aol.com.