AGE WELL. Live Well.
If we can make our community a little bit better every day, we’re doing something right.
John Mitchell
John Mitchell is an infectiously passionate man. One conversation with him and you feel ready to tackle all the challenges the world has to offer.
From his childhood days in West Virginia to attending West Point and becoming an Army Pilot, Mitchell has been a competitor at every turn, always applying maximum effort to the challenge in front of him.
I loved competing and being the best growing up. West Point was a humbling experience, but made you want to keep working to get better,” Mitchell told me. That same drive to compete and become the best pushes him to make every second of the day count, “before 6:00am each day I want to have 30 things done.”
The military took Mitchell and his family across the globe, with stops in South Korea and Alabama (or as he specified Lower Alabama, better known as “LA”), just to name a few. At every stop, he was enamored with the different cultures and communities that he was momentarily joining. Even still, he never quite found the right place to call home.
When John transitioned from the military to the private sector, his tenacity for solving problems followed. He first ventured into project design and has been helping companies across the medical industry develop and implement different products for over 30 years. More recently, John has been in the “turnaround” business. For the last ten years, John Mitchell has been hired by legacy companies in need of direction and quality leadership to analyze and identify problems, implement solutions, and develop organizational and production systems for sustained success.
After a series of successful turnarounds, including
a recent stint with a company in Atlanta, Mitchell was asked in late 2020 to come in and provide his decades of industry experience and expertise to Athens Research & Technology (ART), a local biotechnology company quietly on the forefront of breakthrough advances in medical research and technology. Mitchell became the CEO of ART in January of 2021.
Athens Research & Technology Inc. has been purifying and mastering human proteins for the biomedical industry since 1986. Researchers worldwide have relied on these proteins to help further biotechnology advances, find major breakthrough treatments, and develop innovative practices for combating inflammation, coronary disease, autoimmune disease, cancer, Alzheimer's Disease, and much more. Just in the last 10 years alone, Athens Research & Technology proteins have been published over 1500 times and across the gamut of global scientific journals.
“We have a worldwide impact because every institution around the world uses these proteins,” John tells me, “we are masters of proteins. At the heart of everything Athens Research & Technology does is three things: people, purpose, and proteins.”
Joining ART nearly a year into the COVID-19 pandemic provided plenty of challenges for a new CEO. “I didn’t see anyone for 18 months,” Mitchell explained, “so you do a lot of listening to learn and understand what your people need to start building trust.” Mitchell recognizes his team as the cornerstone of their success, “we want to find great people and continue to build up the team we have so they want to stay for the long term.” Mitchell sees this as
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SEE ‘LIVE WELL’ PAGE 10
I’ve gotten to see Athens bloom over the years, and I’m excited to see what comes next.
‘LIVE
WELL’
FROM PAGE 9
a twofold approach, “as a leader, you have to give your team the knowledge and the practice to become a master of their craft, and then the rewards that benefit both the company and the individual.”
From company parties (both socially distanced and now a bit closer) to scavenger hunts and escape room outings, Mitchell and his staff try to organize team outings frequently. One of the recent favorites was a sushi cooking class at Athens Cooks, a kitchen and fine goods store located in downtown Athens. For the individuals, Mitchell is constantly finding ways to encourage growth and lifelong learning for his team. By providing pathways to continuing education in both the biotechnology industry and leadership, Mitchell equips his team to become the next generation of leaders at ART and beyond. “We were the training ground for all these great companies,” Mitchell said, “now we are building a team that wants to grow while staying here, and we want them to be here for as long they want and works for them.”
But alongside building a dynamic team, Mitchell knows you need to be entrenched in a community you care about and create a symbiotic relationship to be successful as an organization. “You have to ask, how do we build community? that’s what a global company stands on.”
For Mitchell, Athens has been the best match for exactly that reason. “I moved around with my family a lot, and we loved living in different places, but we never found a place to call home,” Mitchell told me. “Athens was our 15th move, and of all the places around the world I’ve lived, this is the first place I get to be both a business member and community member. All our kids come back all the time because Athens is such a great place to be.”
Athens–and Georgia as a whole–has seen significant growth in new industry partnerships and investment as part of a state-wide commitment to business development and support. “The state helps us in so many ways, it’s become such a great place to do business,” Mitchell explains, “and with the university setting up all these different centers for innovation, building out a wide variety of businesses in tech, sciences, and more has been easy.” Notably, ART’s campus is nestled among major international organizations like Johnson & Johnson and
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John Mitchell and former Athens Research & Technology Research Director Jinx Patel posing after winning 2022 Small Business of the Year Award.
Boehringer Ingelheim. The ability to collaborate and share research, resources, and knowledge has made an indelible impact according to Mitchell.
Even with all the incentives and support provided by the state, Mitchell knows finding and keeping the right people makes all the difference. “It still goes back to talent and community,” he says, “we have created pipelines at Athens Tech and the University of Georgia, alongside sponsoring a spot at Career Academy.” As a UGA alumnibuilt business, ART takes special pride in the relationships built with the surrounding institutions. “Centers of excellence tend to attract phenomenally skilled people,” Mitchell explains, “so do places with great culture and community.” Mitchell has noted the growth in Athens over the years he’s visited and now lived in town. From a city known primarily as a college town to a full-scale business and industry hub, the vibrant culture of Athens has always been the key to success, and Mitchell knows the business
community must return the favor to help sustain the community.
“You have to peel back the layers, see what’s really important in the community, and invest in its future,”
Mitchell explains. “Part of our goal is to map out our footprint and see how we can invest and create a stronger community. The development that has happened stems from the talent in the area and the spirit of the community.”
ART proudly supports local nonprofit and community organizations right in their own backyard like Habitat for Humanity, Food Bank of Northeast Georgia, Books for Keeps, and many more.
Mitchell understands that for ART, and all the businesses that call Athens home, to continue on their growing path to success, the community must be supported at every step. “I’ve gotten to see Athens bloom over the years,” Mitchell told me with a proud smile, “and I’m excited to see what comes next.”
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The Athena Industrial Park, located on Athena Drive and Olympic Drive, is home to a wide variety of national and international manufacturing, life sciences, and biotechnology companies.
Traveling Abroad in Comfort with Confidence
Traveling abroad can be an enriching experience, but it can come with its challenges. Even for the tech-adverse, there are a bevy of smartphone apps that are designed to help make navigating unfamiliar territories easier. Here are ten must-have phone apps tailored to the needs of international travelers, seasoned and new alike.
GOOGLE MAPS
A trusted navigation app that provides detailed maps, real-time traffic updates, and directions to help you navigate unfamiliar streets and public transportation systems with ease. You can also download maps for offline use in case of limited connectivity.
TRIPIT
Keep all your travel plans organized in one place with TripIt. Simply forward your confirmation emails for flights, hotels, rental cars, and activities to TripIt, and it will create a detailed itinerary for you, accessible offline.
DUOLINGO
Planning to visit a country where you don't speak the language? Duolingo offers fun and interactive language lessons to help you learn essential phrases and vocabulary before and during your trip.
XE CURRENCY
Easily convert currencies with XE Currency, which offers real-time exchange rates and a currency converter tool. It's perfect for budgeting and making informed financial decisions while traveling.
GOOGLE TRANSLATE
Break down language barriers with Google Translate, which allows you to translate text, speech, and images instantly. You can download languages for offline use and use the camera to translate signs and menus.
SITORSQUAT
Finding clean, accessible restrooms can be challenging while traveling. SitOrSquat helps locate nearby toilets, complete with user reviews and ratings, ensuring a comfortable experience wherever you go.
WHATSAPP
Stay connected with friends and family back home without incurring hefty international roaming charges. WhatsApp offers free messaging, voice, and video calls over WiFi or data, making it an essential communication tool for travelers.
MEDISAFE
Never forget to take your medications
with Medisafe. This app sends reminders for your daily doses, tracks your medication intake, and provides helpful information about your prescriptions, ensuring you stay healthy on your travels.
PACKING PRO
Simplify the packing process with Packing Pro, a comprehensive packing list app that helps you create customized packing lists based on your destination, duration of stay, and activities planned.
SAFETYWING NOMAD INSURANCE
Traveling internationally comes with its share of risks, but SafetyWing Nomad Insurance offers peace of mind with affordable and flexible travel medical insurance coverage. The app allows you to manage your policy, file claims, and access emergency assistance wherever you are.
With these essential phone apps, older adults, in particular, can travel internationally with confidence, convenience, and safety. Whether you're navigating foreign streets, communicating with locals, or managing your health on the go, these apps are invaluable companions for any journey.
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The Center for Active Living (CAL) is a multi-purpose center offering older adults in Athens and surrounding communities opportunities to stay active and engaged.
CAL provides unique social, educational, and wellness-related classes and activities, group trips, and supportive services. For membership information, sign up for our weekly e-newsletter, or to register for trips and classes, contact Autumn Barefoot, Program Manager, at 706-549-4850 or abarefoot@accaging.org.
DANCE, FITNESS AND MOVEMENT CLASSES
EDUCATIONAL CLASSES & SEMINARS CAL
MORE INFO
CAL provides unique social, educational, and wellness-related classes and activities, group trips, and supportive services.
Perks of CAL membership include:
• Unlimited access to CAL Classes, Computer Lab, and Fitness Equipment
• Discounts on CAL Trips
• Lunch is included for those who qualify for our Community Diners program (reservation and paperwork required).
• Transportation to doctor appointments, grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essential errands for Community Diners.
For membership information, sign up for our weekly e-newsletter, or to register for trips and classes, contact Autumn Barefoot, Program Manager, at 706-549-4850 or abarefoot@ accaging.org
HAVE AN IDEA FOR OUR CALENDAR?
Want to lead a class or start a group? Contact Allyn Rippin, CAL Director, at 706-549-4850 or arippin@accaging.org
TRIPS SOCIAL EVENTS 22 | connections magazine SUPPORT GROUPS
DANCE, FITNESS AND MOVEMENT CLASSES
QIGONG FOR VITALITY
What: Qigong cultivates the body’s vital energy, or qi, through gentle and flowing movements that can improve balance, coordination, flexibility and the mind-body connection. Led by yoga and meditation instructor Anna DiBella, PhD, this class incorporates standing and seated movements accessible for all levels.
When: Mondays, 11am-12pm
Where: ACCA Harris Room
Cost: $20/series for members, $25/ series for non-members. Payments made in 5-week series intervals.
TUESDAY
WALKING
GROUP
What: Meet up with friends at ACCA to walk the various parks and trails around Athens. Free for members, $5 for non-members. RSVP required for newcomers. Please contact Autumn at abarefoot@ accaging.org or call 706-549-4850.
1st Tuesday: Meet in CAL Lobby
2nd Tuesday: First United Methodist indoor track
3rd Tuesday: Meet in CAL Lobby
4th Tuesday: Off site: 4/23 11am, State Botanical Gardens 5/28 11am, Bishop Park
6/25 11am, Dudley Park 7/23 10am, Herman C. Michael Park
Cost: $5. Free for members.
INTERMEDIATE LINE DANCING
What: Our Intermediate Line Dancing class is a great way to keep your mind and body fit while having fun! Instructor Linda “Boots” Barnes plays an eclectic mix of music to keep you moving from beginning to end, with step-bystep instruction.
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays, Noon-1pm
Where: ACCA Harris Room
Cost: $5. Free for members.
BEGINNER LINE DANCING
What: New to line dancing? Following our Intermediate class, Linda leads an introductory class to help new dancers learn the steps.
When: Tuesdays, 1-2pm
Where: ACCA Harris Room
Cost: Cost: $5. Free for members.
FEEL BETTER YOGA
What: Breathe better and get more flexible and joyful in this easy, slow going yoga class that anyone can do. Elizabeth Alder, CYT, has taught yoga in the U.S. and India - and in Athens for 30 years. You will bring more balance, less stress and more joy into your life with this practice of Feel Better Yoga.
When: Tuesdays, 2:30-3:30pm
Where: ACCA Harris Room
Cost: $20/series for members, $25/
series for non-members Payments made in 5-week series intervals.
DANCE FITNESS
What: Let the music move you in this fun and energizing class! Pat’s class will help you improve your core, coordination, stamina, and balance. Chairs are available for those who prefer to move while seated.
When: Wednesdays, 2-3pm
Where: ACCA Harris Room
Cost: $5. Free for members.
HATHA YOGA WITH BILL
What: Bill’s Integral Hatha Yoga class consists of bodily postures, deep relaxation, and breath control. The yoga asanas, or postures, are meant to bring steadiness, comfort and ease to the body and mind. Classes are accessible for beginners yet challenging for those with experience.
When: Wednesdays from 3-4:30pm and Fridays from 1:30-3pm
Where: ACCA Harris Room
Cost: $20/series for members, $25/ series for non-members. Payments made in 5-week series intervals.
SMART MOVES WITH BECKY
What: This low-impact class can be performed seated or standing and is appropriate for all fitness levels. Similar to Silver Sneakers, this 60-minute class mixes the use of elastic bands, free weights,
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and medicine balls to work your entire body and improve balance, flexibility, and strength.
When: Thursdays from 2-3pm
Where: ACCA Harris Room
Cost: $5. Free for members.
LAUGHTER YOGA
What: Want more fun in your life?
Laughing yoga is a popular movement and breathing exercise that aims to cultivate joy, bring out your inner child, and help you let go of stress. Led by instructor Elizabeth Alder.
When: Every 3rd Thursday of the month from 1:15-1:45pm
Where: ACCA Harris Room
Cost: $4/class for members; $7/class for non-members
GET STRONG WITH SANDY
What: In this class, Sandy incorporates weight training (light or heavy depending on your comfort level) with inspiration from yoga and tai chi and Pilates. This class builds body strength, balance and coordination and can be done seated or standing. Accessible for all fitness levels.
When: Mondays from 1:30-2:30pm
Where: ACCA Harris Room
Cost: $5. Free for members.
CLASSES & SEMINARS
LET’S
TALK ABOUT
IT: PAIN IN PARKINSON’S
What: There are many non-motor challenges associated with Parkinson’s disease that may not always be easy to discuss. With a focus on pain, this program will provide strategies for coping and talking about it with healthcare providers or loved ones. Steve Crider Jr., MD, from Origins Spine and Joint Physicians, will
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shed light on the symptoms of pain that may occur in people with Parkinson’s disease, and its impact, as well as the role medications/therapy may play in these conditions. Hosted by the Parkinson’s Foundation Georgia Chapter & the Athens Community Council on Aging Center for Active Living. Lunch provided. To register, please visit: www. parkinson.org/AthensPain or call Annie Long at 770-450-0792
When: Wednesday, April 24th from 11am-1pm
Where: ACCA Harris Room
Cost: Free
HEALTHY HEARING, HAPPY MIND
What: May is Better Health and Speech Month! Did you know that healthy hearing can reduce the risk of dementia and depression?
A specialist from Piccolo Hearing will be here to provide valuable information on hearing loss and its management. Learn about the latest in hearing aid technology, how to maintain hearing health, and options for hearing aid insurance coverage. There will be complimentary on site hearing exams and raffle prizes!
When: Monday, May 20th from 10:3011:30am
Where: Hosted by ACCA at First Baptist Church (355 Pulaski Street)
Cost: Free
POWERED BY CONNECTIONS:
OLDER AMERICANS MONTH EVENTS AT CAL
Each May, the Administration for Community Living leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM). This year’s theme, Powered by Connection, “recognizes the profound impact that meaningful relationships and social connections have on our health and well-being.” Join us at CAL for social events throughout the month! All events are free!
BADMINTON AND GAMES ON THE LAWN
Enjoy the spring air with some invigorating lawn games and friendlycompetition with fellow members! Refreshments, music and prizes provided.
When: Wednesday, May 8th from 11am-Noon
Where: ACCA Lawn
“THINKING OF YOU” CARD WRITING WORKSHOP WITH MEALS ON WHEELS
Who doesn’t love receiving a personal note in the mail? Spread the love and make a meaningful connection with homebound seniors. Materials provided.
When: Tuesday, May 14th from 11am-Noon (drop ins welcome all day)
Where: ACCA Brick Room
ICE CREAM SOCIAL AT ANDY’S CUSTARD
Stop by for an afternoon treat with friends at one of ACCA’s sweetest community partners. CAL members, enjoy a cup or cone on us!
When: Friday, May 24th from Noon-1pm
Where: Andy’s Custard (2180 W Broad St, Athens)
A “GRAND” DAY AT THE GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART
Calling all grandparents and grandkids! Make special memories together with a tour of the exhibit and art-making activity at the museum. All ages welcome.
When: Thursday, May 30th from 11am-Noon
Where: Georgia Museum of Art (90 Carlton St)
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‘CALENDAR’
FROM PAGE 25
ALZHEIMER’S & BRAIN AWARENESS MONTH
What: For too many, being diagnosed with dementia is an overwhelming and isolating experience. Because dementia remains a relatively complex and misunderstood set of symptoms, persons initially diagnosed, and their care partners, often receive little information regarding available resources. In the greater Athens area and throughout Northeast Georgia, the number of persons living with dementia is growing significantly, creating an increasing need for supportive, compassionate, and individualized care in our area. In honor of Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, learn about what ACCA and our community partners are doing to meet the needs of those affected by dementia and provide hope when it matters most.
When: Monday, June 24th, Noon-4pm
Where: ACCA Harris Room
Cost: Free
DIGITAL SKILLS READY @50+
What: Workshops to learn the essential skills you need to navigate an increasingly digital world. These classes can help you stay connected with family and friends or gain confidence using apps and platforms that help make everyday life easier. Lectures give a general overview; workshops
offer hands-on practice (laptops provided or bring your own device). Registration required.
Where: ACCA
Cost: $5. Free for members.
Getting Started with YouTube
When: Wednesday, April 17th,11am
With more than one billion videos available for free, YouTube is an incredibly useful resource for lifelong learning, staying in shape, keeping your mind sharp and enjoying entertainment. Getting to Know Your Smartphone (iPhone & Android friendly!)
When: Wednesday, May 29th, 11am
Smartphones have SO many useful features and you may be wondering what all that small device can do! We will explore the Settings app, security features, and go over tips and best practices to help you take advantage of your smartphone.
Getting Started with Lyft
When: Wednesday, June 12th, 11am
Learn how to set up the “Lyft” app that provides flexible and reliable rides to get you where you need to go, whether it’s to run errands, get to a medical appointment, or visit friends and family.
Getting Started with Venmo Wednesday, July 17th, 11am
Have your kids or grandkids asked if they can “Venmo” you? Let us teach you how to use the Venmo payment app that allows you to safely and securely send and receive money between friends and family with ease!
VIRTUAL AGEWELL-NESS SEMINARS
What: Informative virtual classes with
Dr. Lesley Clack, ScD, CPH, from Northeast Georgia HealthMatters that help you age and live well.
When: Twice a month from 10-11am
Where: Zoom (Contact CAL for link)
Cost: Free
Food Safety - April 16th
Depression and Anxiety - May 7th
Hydration Hacks - May 21st
Skin Health - June 4th
Supplements - June 18th
Healthy Vision - July 2nd
Up Your Protein - July 16th
OUTSMART YOUR SMARTPHONE
What: Do you need help getting plugged into the digital world?
Want to gain confidence in using your smartphone, tablet, or laptop? Our Tech Volunteer can answer your questions. By appointment; for members only.
CAL TRIPS
To register for trips, please contact Autumn at abarefoot@accaging.org or call 706-549-4850. Please note: Payment is due at time of registration to guarantee your spot.
“FRI-YAY” FUN AT DAVE AND BUSTERS
What: Do you love old school arcade games? Want to show off your competitive side? Dave & Busters is an entertainment center for adults who still love to play like a kid. The
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venue has it all, from vintage arcade games, billiards, and ping pong to the newest technology, fun prizes, and more! Play until your heart’s content, then sit back and enjoy some food and beverages at the center’s restaurant.
When: Thursday, May 2nd at 7:30pm at Hodgson Hall
Where: Lawrenceville, GA
Cost: $50 for members; $60 for nonmembers (includes unlimited play, food and transportation). Payment due at time of registration. See CAL for refund policy
ATHENS CHORAL SOCIETY SPRING CONCERT
What: A voice in Athens for more than 50 years, Athens Choral Society (ACS) has been providing musical opportunities for the community since 1971. ACS performances allow the public to learn about great, classical choral works as well as newer and less well-known choral pieces. Their spring concert is sure to be another powerful and engaging performance.
When: Thursday, May 2nd at 7:30pm at Hodgson Hall
Cost: Free; $5 with transportation
ARMCHAIR TRAVELER SERIES
Love to travel without the jet lag? Each month we curate a video playlist that captures the flavor of each destination, followed by “A Taste of the Destination” lunch. Join us in person or on Zoom. The series is free for members; $5 for non-members. Lunch is additional
$7/person* (*included in Community Diners membership.) RSVP for lunch required. Contact the CAL office for the Zoom link. Thursday of each month at First Baptist Church.
April 18th: Morocco
May 16th: Great Barrier Reef
June 20th: Galapagos Islands
July 18th:Jekyll Island
August 15th: Singapore
TRIP TO THE MUSIC CITY
What: Join us for an exciting 3-day, 2-night trip to Nashville, TN, to take in the sights and sounds of the “Music City.” Experience a celebration of country music past and present with songs from many of the great artists in country music. Enjoy not one, but two, dinner shows, including a memorable evening at the Grand Ole Opry! By day we’ll take a guided tour of the city, with highlights such as Music Square, the Parthenon, Bicentennial Park, Veteran Memorials, American Pickers, and more. You’ll also have free time to explore the “Honky Tonk Highway,” Nashville’s famous street playing live music 365 days a year as well as a visit to the city’s urban Farmer’s Market. Trip includes 2 nights' accommodation, 2 dinner shows, 2 hotel breakfasts, 2 catered evening receptions at hotel, transportation by deluxe motor coach as well as all taxes, meal gratuities, and baggage handling.
When: May 13-15th, 2024
Where: Nashville, TN
Cost: $675 double occupancy, $835 single occupancy (travel protection
is available for $79 for double occupancy, $92 for single.) Full payments due at registration. See CAL for refund policy
HIKING TRIP TO AMICALOLA FALLS
What: Put on your walking shoes and join us on a day trip to Amicalola Falls in North Georgia! Take in the mountain fresh air and lovely views! After our hike, we’ll dine at the Cascades, Amicalola Falls’ very own restaurant with a breathtaking view.
When: Thursday, May 30th (depart CAL at 8:30am; return appx 4pm)
Where: Amicalola Falls, Dawsonville, GA
Cost: $35 for members, $45 for non-members (includes entry and transportation; lunch is self-pay)
Eligibility: The hike has several routes, ranging from mildly to moderately strenuous. Please be advised that the staircase route has 604 steps. We recommend participants be in moderately good health and prepared for physical activity such as climbing stairs, crossing bridges, and walking short distances over uneven terrain.
EXPLORE MADISON, GA
What: Join us for a half-day trip to the charming, historic town of Madison, GA. We will stroll the lively main square with its shops and restaurants, visit an antique mall, stop by the Madison Morgan Cultural Center and enjoy the splendid Farmview Market eatery
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‘CALENDAR’
FROM PAGE 27
and grocery. Lunch is self-pay.
When: Wednesday, June 5th (depart CAL at 9:30am; return appx 4pm)
Where: Madison, GA
Cost: $25 for members, $35 for nonmembers
KAYAKING TRIP ON THE BROAD RIVER
What: Back by popular demand, we’re headed to The Broad River Outpost for a kayaking adventure! We will kayak through six miles of moving water on
BRO’s “Scenic Float” through small rocky shoals surrounded by hardwood forest and scenic vistas. This section of the river allows for minimal water exposure, making it popular for laid back paddlers and families. The route offers a chance to see a variety of birds, including Blue Herons, and includes paddling through a Native American fish weir. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch along the way perched on the flat rocks and sandy beach.
When: Thursday, June 13th (Depart CAL at 9:30am, return approx. 4:00pm)
Where: Broad River Outpost, 7911 Wildcat Bridge Rd, Danielsville, GA
30633
Cost: $60 for members and $70 for nonmembers (cost includes transportation, admission, kayak and life vest rental & picnic lunch)
Eligibility: Suitable for members with basic swimming ability and moderate to high activity level. The water level is appx 4 ft deep. Oneseater kayaks are considered safe and easy to control and recover if turned over. Light walking, getting in and out of your kayak, and light paddling is required.
BRAVES GAME
What: It’s summer, and that means baseball is here! Join CAL at Truist
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Park to watch the Braves take on the Pittsburgh Pirates. Enjoy a cold brew, a bevy of ballpark concessions and the fireworks display after the game.
When: Friday, June 28th at 7:20pm (Depart CAL at 4:30pm; return appx 12am)
Where: Truist Park, Atlanta
Cost: $105 for members, $115 for non-members (please note, price reflects significant ticket and bus access cost increase at the park)
PASTA TO PAPERMAKING: ATLANTA MUSEUM EXCURSION
What: Italy is home to pasta and modern papermaking. On this adventure to Atlanta, we will visit two off-the-beaten-path museums highlighting these famous Italian inventions. First, we will stop at the Robert C. WIlliams Museum of Papermaking at Georgia Tech for a tour and hands-on papermaking activity, where we learn about the history of paper, including the Fabriano mills of Italy. Next, we’ll enjoy lunch at an Italian eatery, followed by a visit to the Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) for their Al Dente: The Design of Pasta exhibit.
When: Wednesday, July 24th (depart CAL at 8:30am; return appx 4:30pm)
Where: Atlanta, GA
Cost: $60 for members, $70 for nonmembers (includes admission and material fees and transportation; lunch is self-pay)
SWINGS AND WINGS AT TOP GOLF
What: Back by popular demand! Take a swing at this driving range that offers climate-controlled hitting bays, giant outfield targets and hightech balls that score themselves! The entertainment complex boasts a rooftop terrace, HDTV screens throughout, and a sports bar and restaurant. Think high-tech bowling alley, but for golf!
When: Wednesday, August 7th at 10:00am (Depart CAL at 9am, Return appx 1:30pm)
Where: Top Golf in Duluth (Depart CAL at 9am, return appx. 1:30pm)
Cost: $40 for members, $50 for nonmembers (includes transportation, 2 hours of play, light bites and wings!)
JIMMY CARTER PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM
What: The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library is a vast archive that includes not only the presidential library but also privately maintained spaces such as President Carter’s office, offices for foundations he supports, and the Museum of the Jimmy Carter Library. The museum itself provides immersive exhibitions of objects, documents, and photos as well as beautiful gifts from world leaders. Join us for a museum visit followed by lunch at Sweet Auburn Market. Lunch is self-pay.
When: Thursday, August 15th (depart CAL at 8:30am; return appx 4pm)
Where: The Carter Center, Atlanta
Cost: $40 for members; $50 for nonmembers
SOCIAL & SUPPORT GROUPS & EVENTS
CAL HAPPY HOUR
What: Join this monthly social group at some of Athens’ favorite local spots for cocktails and mocktails. Happy hour is the happiest when shared with friends! Carpooling is encouraged - bring a friend! First Thursdays from 5 -6pm. Self-pay at the venues.
April 4th: Tapped (297 Prince Ave)
May 2nd: Empourium (364 E Broad St.)
June 6th: Blue Sky Bar (247 E Broad St., Suite B - one of the city’s hidden gems, upstairs inside Walker’s Pub)
July 11th: Normal Bar (1365 Prince Ave)
August 1st: Oglethorpe Garage (1560 Oglethorpe Ave)
ADVENTURES IN DINING
What: A culinary social outing for adventurous eaters. This season we finish up our Italian tour and move into Central and Latin American cuisine. RSVP required. Carpooling encouraged - bring a friend! Meals are self-pay. Reservations are required; please contact CAL office.
May 8th: Osteria (323 E. Broad St)
June 12th: Punta Cana Latin Grill (367 Prince Ave)
July 10th: Flama Brazilian Steakhouse (1550 Oglethorpe Ave)
August 14th: Tlaloc (1225 N Chase St)
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‘CALENDAR’
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KINGSMEN’S CLUB
We believe there is a wealth of value in men forming meaningful friendships, having support to turn to, and engaging social opportunities to stay active and healthy. The CAL men’s group meets first Mondays for social hour with classic table games, coffee and donuts, themed gatherings, and more! Looking to “meet up with the guys” more than once a month? The Kingsmen’s Club meets offsite once a month for a special outing.
Social Hour: First Monday of each month at 10am
Where: Hosted by ACCA at First Baptist Church Breakfast Outings: Once a month (RSVP required) Contact the CAL office for locations and times!
MAH JONGG
What: Mah Jongg is a Chinese tile game that is becoming more and more popular in the U.S. Similar to the western card game rummy, Mah Jongg is a game of skill, strategy, calculation, and involves a degree of chance. RSVP required; space is limited. Please contact the CAL office.
When: Wednesdays,1:30pm-3:30pm
Where: ACCA Hudson Room
SUPPORT GROUP
What: Join other care partners for support, participate in educational programs with aging professionals, and gain
knowledge from others on this journey. For more information, contact Kellye at kmorgan@ accaging.org or 706-549-4850.
When: 3rd Tuesdays of each month at Noon
Where: ACCA Bentley ADH Center, 135 Hoyt St., Athens, GA, 30601
CARE PARTNER
LUNCH GROUP
What: Join us for a delicious luncheon held at various restaurants around Athens. This monthly event is for care partners to meet with others to socialize, savor some good food, and enjoy each other’s company. 2nd Wednesday of each month at 11:30am
Wednesday, April 10th: Blind Pig Tavern (west side location) 2440 W Broad St. Athens, GA 30606
Wednesday, May 8th: Cheddar’s (2040 Oconee Connector)
Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference. Scan QR Code to pick up the tab for an Athens area senior
30 | connections magazine
Exceptional Care for stmaryshealthcaresystem.org From our physician practices to our inpatient hospitals, we want to be your most trusted choice for compassionate health care. Award-winning excellence. e Joint
• Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center • Total Hip and Knee Replacement • Spine Surgery Cardiac Resuscitation Gold Award St. Mary’s Hospital, Athens Stroke Gold Plus Award St. Mary’s Hospital, Athens and St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital, Lavonia American Heart Association Get With the Guidelines American College of Cardiology Accredited Chest Pain Center with Primary PCI (emergency heart attack treatment) – St. Mary’s Hospital, Athens St. Mary’s Center for Rehabilitative Medicine 24/7 inpatient nursing and rehab care to help patients return to the community The region’s only triple-certi ed breast health practice for the detection and treatment of breast cancer St. Mary’s Breast Health Center U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals 2024
Commission Gold Seal of Approval®
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