Senior Life Atlanta
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january 2019 • Vol. 4 No. 1 | AtlantaSeniorLIFE.com
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THE ARTS
road scholar
Older adults find creativity in clay
Presidential Retreats You Can Visit
page 8
page 20
A Close-Knit Group
Get Fit with SilverSneakers page 12
The Atlanta Knitting Guild shares its love of craft and community Page 4
plan to compete! page 26
Contents January 2019
COVER STORY
4 6
A Close-Knit Group Cuddly Mementos
THE ARTS Molding Clay, Finding Creativity
8
12
HEALTH & FITNESS
12 14
Silversneakers Fun
15 16
Where to Get Your Workout
19
PET PICKS Sheeba!
20
ROAD SCHOLAR Six Historic Presidential Retreats You Can Visit
Get Physically and Mentally fit this Year
20
Stay Ahead of Colon Cancer
24
PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE Chores are for Kids? Not Any More
26
CALENDAR SPOTLIGHT Plan to Compete!
29
OUT & ABOUT
ON THE COVER Atlanta Knitting Guild members with some of the comfort bears that the guild donates to the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy. In back, left to right, Freda Loving, Arlette Berlin, Phyllis Bell Miller and Natalie Green; in front seated, Ellen Morgan.
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6 Atlanta Senior Life focuses on the interests, accomplishments and lifestyles of the active senior population in metro Atlanta. It aims to inspire readers to embrace a more rewarding life by informing them of opportunities to expand their horizons, express their talents and engage in their community.
CONTACT US Editorial Kathy Dean Contributing Editor kathydean@atlantaseniorlife.com Joe Earle Editor-at-Large JoeEarle@reporternewspapers.net Contributors JoAnn Bell, Julie E. Bloemeke, Joeff Davis, Judi Kanne, Donna Williams Lewis, Steve Rose, Kristen Sumpter Advertising For information call (404) 917-2200 ext 130. Sales Executives: Melissa Kidd, Jeff Kremer, Janet Porter, Jim Speakman
Photo by Joeff Davis
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JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
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Š 2019 All rights reserved. Publisher reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertising for any reason. Publisher assumes no responsibility for information contained in advertising. Any opinions expressed in print or online do not necessarily represent the views of Atlanta Senior Life or Springs Publishing, LLC.
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3
COVER STORY By Kathy Dean Members of the Atlanta Knitting Guild took refuge from a cold November night in a Dunwoody church hall for their monthly meeting. On their way in, many stopped at a table near the door to speak to Elizabeth Halberstadt and drop off scarves and bagfuls of baby hats they’d made. Halberstadt carefully filled two tables with their handiwork: scarves and mittens, a pile of tiny hats, brightly dressed teddy bears. “Many of these things will be given to the Atlanta Day Shelter,” Halberstadt said. Guild members have been sending knitted items to the shelter since 1990. Then she pointed to the bears. “These go to Georgia Center for Child Advocacy and are for children and teenagers who’ve been abused,” she said. The knitters give their handmade items to many groups – including Northside Hospital, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and the U.S. Armed Forces – but the “comfort bears” program is a favorite among members of the guild, said member Debra Davis, who joined the guild in the mid-1980s, shortly after it was founded. Lois Mitchell, another longtime member, explained how the knitters got involved with the comfort bears in the early 1990s. At that time, Mitchell worked with the Home Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention, now known as the North American Mission Board. The organization was collecting bears to give to teenage girls who’d suffered abuse. “We were getting hundreds of teddy bears, many more than we could use,” she said. “So I sent out a call to see if there was some other group that could use them.” Local police departments, it turned out, were using teddy bears to comfort children who’d experienced trauma. The Atlanta Knitting Guild stepped in to help with the project. Through the years, the group has donated well over 600 bears. Originally, the bears were taken directly to local police stations. These days, they go
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A Close-Knit G
A
B
C A
Denise Tokarz presents her “mystery blanket” during show and tell.
B Former Atlanta Knitting Guild board member Doug Iberg gets some rows completed before the meeting starts. C
Jolie Elder winds yarn into a ball in preparation of her next knitting project.
D
Jill Vogin, current president of the Atlanta Knitting Guild, shows some of her work.
E
E Lynne Davidson (left) knits a striped sweater next to Elke Schubert, who is working on a sock. F
Lois Mitchell (left) and Lynn Stoudt visit while working on their projects. PHOTOS BY JOEFF DAVIS
F
JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
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Group
D through the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy to be given to children in crisis situations. The guild supplies the bears and members make clothing to dress them so that each one has a unique look and personality. Mitchell remembered a story that one of the other members, Diana Baber, had shared with the guild at an earlier meeting. “Diana was at one of the big box stores that was having an after-holiday sale,” Mitchell said. “Teddy bears were on sale and she was buying up a lot of bears for the charity. The young woman who was checking her out asked why she was buying so many. “When Diana explained, the checker’s eyes filled with tears. ‘I was one of those children, she said, and I still have the bear.’ The bear she got as a child in trauma is still important to her as an adult.” The donation of comfort
The Atlanta Knitting Guild shares its love of craft and community bears, and all of the charity work, is only one aspect of the guild, however. Many come here for the camaraderie, to share their passion for knitting and to hone their skills. Every month, the guild members meet in the Great Hall at St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church in Dunwoody. Social hour runs for an hour before the 7:30 p.m. meeting time, and last November it was a welcome retreat to the chilly weather outside. Chairs were filling in the bright, airy room with clusters of knitters of all ages, mostly women. Everyone was busy with a knitting project, and many were wearing examples of their handiwork as well. There’s a good mix of knitting experience among people who are drawn to the group, from beginners to expert knitters. More than one member mentioned that they get inspiration and instruction from Jean Kammerer, a longtime member of the guild and of St. Luke’s Church. The consensus is that besides having exceptional talent, she also has a generous spirit and is always ready to teach others. The meetings allow Carol Connell to see “all the novel ways of knitting, the pattern ideas, as well as the hats and bears and other things to make for charities,” she said. “I learn from the others here, they’re so very talented.” Meetings include time for show and tell. Member and expert knitter Jolie Elder was wearing her own design of an indigo swirl shawl pattern that she’d adjusted so it could be worn as a reversible jacket. Denise Tokarz brought a nearly finished “Mystery Blanket — a Debbie Abrahams pattern — that impressed everyone. Jill Vogin, while working on a red, white and blue reminder
to vote, said she’s enjoying her second year as Atlanta Knitting Guild president. She explained that the organization’s system provides consistency and support for members as they assume leadership roles in the guild. “The board is two deep, rotating on and off for most positions, like president, vice president and program chair,” she said. Everyone pitches in to contribute in some way. Near the kitchen, several knitters stood and chatted around a table filled with snacks that included fresh-baked cookies and sweet breads, all provided by members on a rotating basis. At the other end of the hall, Kathleen Pickens and Sandy Crowley ran the library, a collection of books that are available for members to borrow. “We have different types here, like technical and pattern books, and even some
novels,” Pickens said. Many of the books were purchased by the guild, while others had been donated. Whether it’s sharing with one another or with the community, members of the Atlanta Knitting Guild keep their hands busy. “There’s always something on my needles,” guild member Alison Lalla said, “and it’s nice to have this opportunity to give back.”
Find out more
The Atlanta Knitting Guild meets monthly, on the first Thursday of the month, unless otherwise noted on the website. Meetings are held at St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church, 1978 Mt. Vernon Road, Dunwoody 30338, starting at 7:30 p.m.; social time runs from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit atlantaknittingguild.org.
Guilds and Resources
There are plenty of places to get together with other knitters, crochets, weavers, handspinners and quilters in the area. Neighborhood churches and community centers often have knitting, crochet and quilting groups associated with them. Many needlework groups are listed on meetup.com. Another online resource is Ravelry — ravelry.com — where you can find like-minded crafters, local events, information and patterns. Here are a few of the groups centered in north metro Atlanta.
Knitting Guilds
Clicks and Sticks, Snellville/Gwinnett: find them on Facebook North Georgia Knitting Guild, Woodstock: northgeorgiaknittingguild.com Find more through The Knitting Guild of America, tkga.org.
Crochet Guilds
The Chain Gang, Kennesaw: chaingangcrochet.com The Happy Hookers, Atlanta: find them on Facebook Find more through Crochet Guild of America, crochet.org.
Quilting Guilds
There are too many local quilting guilds to list. Check the American Quilters Society, americanquilter.com, or quiltguilds.com/georgia to find one in your area.
Chattahoochee Handweavers Guild chgweavers.org
Peachtree Handspinners Guild
peachtreehandspinnersguild.org
JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
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Cuddly Mementos
Volunteer Nancy Crow sews memory bears for a local hospice By Kathy Dean Ten years ago, a call for help went out to the Atlanta chapter of the American Sewing Guild. An Atlanta hospice was looking for volunteers to stitch together bears for the patients’ families. The handmade, custom bears — called “memory bears” — are made from the clothing of the loved one who has passed away. At the time, Nancy Crow was leading Sew Creative, a sewing guild in Fayette County. “I thought it would be a good group project,” Crow said. When the hospice, VITAS Healthcare, sent her the material, it turned out that none of the sewing group’s other members were able to take on the project, “so I did the first 10 bears on my own,” she said. Since that time, Crow has made over 2,725 memory bears, finishing about 300 of them in 2018. In recognition of her work, she received two awards in 2011 from VITAS Healthcare for volunteer achievement, one from the Atlanta hospice and another from the VITAS national headquarters in Miami. Though possibly the most industrious, Nancy isn’t the only person who makes memory bears. VITAS has one other woman who sews the bears for their patients. “People all over are making them,” Crow said. “Just Google ‘memory bears’ and see.” Websites like Pinterest and Etsy show many
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versions of memory or keepsake bears that can be custom made, and there are a variety of sewing patterns available. Crow uses the Simplicity “It’s Sew Easy” A2115 pattern. But the bears are all different, she said. “How I make the bear depends on the material they bring to me. I ask the families to provide whatever is meaningful to them.” And that could be just about anything, from wedding dresses, military uniforms and silk scarves to leather jackets, T-shirts and bathrobes. After sewing and stuffing the bears, Crow adds eyes and a nose, maybe a ribbon if necessary, but otherwise only uses what’s given from the families. “Mine have no mouths,” she added, “because you can talk to the bear, but you shouldn’t expect it to talk back.” She said that figuring out what fabric to use and how to cut it into the pattern takes the most time. It can be challenging, too, like when she gets a large logo, a baseball cap or material that’s very stretchy. “I get creative on how to make it work,” Crow said. She believes it’s easier for her to make the bears than it would be for family members to make them. “I can cut up the garments,” she said. “It’s too personal for them; they’d never be able to do it.” The most difficult bear project she ever received was when she got three men’s white t-shirts. “I added bows to keep them from looking so dull,” she said. One of her favorites is the SPECIAL bear she made from Crown Royal bags supplied by the family. One woman had included a bunch of her father’s socks among the garments she sent. “They had a strong memory attached to them. Every morning, there was a discussion: do you want your socks on or off?” Crow said. “I cut down a few of the socks and used them as part of the bear’s feet and legs. I met that lady at the memory bear reunion that year, and she was over the moon about the socks on the bear.” VITAS hosts memory bear reunion events where families are invited to bring the bears, meet the women who sewed them and share their memories. “We like to hold the reunions as a kind of memorial event and support group,” said Andrea Temple, Volunteer Service Manager for VITAS Healthcare in Atlanta. Temple delivers the fabric to Crow, along with any special instructions from the families. She coordinates volunteers who make the bears as well as those who sew other items for hospice patients, including lap blankets for veterans. She said the memory bears are a big hit. “Other hospices and organizations ask us for
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information about the bears.” You might think that the memory bear project would be enough to keep Crow busy, but you’d be wrong. Originally from Florida, Crow has been retired from the Clayton News Daily in Jonesboro for some time, and now she’s busier than ever. She’s the secretary for the Creative Crochet Guild based in Peachtree City and teaches crochet for Fayette Senior Services in Fayetteville. Crow also runs the “Sit and Stitch” group that meets twice a week at Fayette County’s Life Enrichment Center. The Sit and Stitchers have donated many items through the years, like baby hats and chemo hats for the local hospital. Under Nancy’s direction, they also provide items included in the holiday packages delivered to homes via Meals on Wheels. “One year it was a scarf, another it was a potholder,” she said. “Every year we add something.” Recently, she’s also joined a prayer shawl ministry with the Fayetteville First United Methodist Church. “I was looking for another outlet to do things for others,” she said. “After all, I’ve crocheted enough afghans for myself — I have enough to last a millennium!” While she enjoys all her creative outlets, the bears hold a special place in Crow’s heart. “Each one is unique because the material I get makes them unique,” she said. PHOTO BY KATHY DEAN
JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
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THE ARTS
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In a bright, cheerful studio at Chamblee’s North DeKalb Senior Center, balls of clay are turned into finely decorated cake plates, soaring dolphins, ornate bowls, elaborate flowers and figurines. Their creators range from beginners who once believed they had no artistic talent to holders of master’s degrees in fine arts. They shape clay side-by-side in a program led by a teacher for whom pottery is much more than a craft. It’s more of a calling. She is Crystalmoon, a 63-year-old psychotherapist HOTOS BY DONNA WILLIAMS LEWIS turned life coach who goes by Alison King, a pottery student at the North the solo name given to her in DeKalb Senior Center, is ready to attach the 2009 by a Native American top of her cake plate to its base. shaman in Tennessee. “When I make pottery, I just feel a thrill,” the Tucker resident said. “If it turns out bad, I’m thrilled. If it turns out good, I’m thrilled. …You can’t be a perfectionist. You just have to let the clay talk to you.” She tears up at the memory of her first experience with clay, which came when she was an art major at St. Mary’s College in Maryland. “The first time I took a lump of clay and put it on the potter’s wheel and it turned into something underneath my very hands it felt so miraculous,” she said, emotionally reliving that experience. “It was one of those moments in life that is so vivid and powerful.” That ‘something’ she made was “just a cylinder,” she said. “Just a 6-inch cylinder.” A nearby student broke the silence that had filled the room with a joke. “The rest of us had to wait until we were retired,” said former marketing representative Alison King, of Chamblee, of not getting into pottery until 2016. “We didn’t know we could do anything, and I’ve made a fish that’s a good candy dish. …I like making things I can literally give to my friends.” A pottery teacher for most of the past 30 years — mostly in Murfreesboro, Tenn., where she had a long career in counseling — Crystalmoon landed at the North DeKalb Senior Center in May 2018. On a recent December morning, she was helping new student Jackie Robinson, of Dunwoody, carve curvy lines into clay that would become a creamer. A family touring the senior center was led into her class. After hearing some details and checking out the students’ handiwork, a millennial in the family wistfully asked their guide, “Is it just for seniors?” The answer is yes, it is. Not only that, it’s only open to members of the North DeKalb Senior Center, one of four neighborhood senior centers in DeKalb County. But it’s easy to become a member and worth the effort, said the center’s manager, Yolanda Mendoza-Miller. The federally funded center, which offers a free lunch, is available to DeKalb residents ages 60 and up who only need to get a medical
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clearance form signed by a doctor and meet with Mendoza-Miller to complete paperwork. The membership fee? Zero. “There is no cost — at the moment,” Mendoza-Miller said. The pottery class, held weekly on Tuesdays, costs members just $5 per month to help cover the cost of supplies. Crystalmoon throws some of her own money into the pot, along with donations from some of the students, so that the class can be affordable to people on fixed incomes. “I’m really glad that we’re able to facilitate a program such as pottery,” said Mendoza-Miller, who said she believes immersion in different mediums of art is important for seniors. “I wish I could sit with them and do pottery. I could get lost in that for hours.”
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‘Have fun and be creative’
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From left, pottery instructor Crystalmoon and new student Jackie Robinson put finishing touches to clay that will become creamers.
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New students can enroll at any time. There are no quarters or semester limitations, no levels of courses. There’s just one pottery class offering a new project each week. Students can also choose to work on their own projects, with assistance, if desired, from Crystalmoon. The North DeKalb class uses the ancient practice of “hand-building,” employing
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Find Out More
Facility, Atlanta, 404-613-8580 ■ Helene S. Mills Senior Facility, Atlanta, 404-523-3353, helenemillscenter.org
Many art and other classes are offered at senior centers throughout the Atlanta area. Check out what’s available and get inspired to create!
cobbcounty.org ■ East Cobb Senior Center, Marietta, 770-509-4900 ■ Freeman Poole Senior Center, Smyrna, 770-801-3400 ■ North Cobb Senior Center, Acworth, 770-975-7740 ■ West Cobb Senior Center, Powder Springs, 770-528-8200
DeKalb County
dekalbcountyga.gov ■ North DeKalb Senior Center, Chamblee, 770-455-7602 ■ DeKalb/Atlanta Senior Center, Atlanta, 404-370-7297 ■ Lithonia Senior Center, Lithonia, 770-482-0402 ■ Lou Walker Senior Center, Lithonia, 770-322-2900 ■ Scottdale Senior Center, Scottdale, 404-501-0704 ■ South DeKalb Senior Center, Decatur, 404-284-4865
North Fulton County
■ Dorothy C. Benson Senior Facility, Sandy Springs, 404-613-4900, bensoncenter.org ■ Harriett G. Darnell Senior
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Cobb County
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rolling pins to get an even thickness of clay. To conserve costs, they glaze clay when it’s “bone dry” and fire it once. When they have enough dried and glazed products to fill a kiln, they take their pottery to the nearby Davens Ceramic Center to be fired at no additional charge to the students.
Student Jackie Robinson smooths out her leaf plate.
Gwinnett County
gwinnettcounty.com ■ Buford Senior Center, Buford, 678-225-5367 ■ Centerville Senior Center, Snellville, 678-277-0230 ■ Lawrenceville Senior Center, Lawrenceville, 678-277-0970 ■ Norcross Senior Center, Norcross, 678-225-5430
Cherokee County
cherokeega.com, 770-345-5320 or 770-345-5312 ■ Canton Senior Center, Canton, 770-345-6730
JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
Pottery class begins at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays with an open studio. Crystalmoon is on site for class by 1:30 p.m. if not before. She’s paid for an hour of teaching, but generally works in the studio for three or four hours each Tuesday, she said. “To have a place to express yourself artistically and creatively is one of the essentials to having a meaningful life,” Crystalmoon said. Her mission for her class is to “have fun and be creative.” Mission accomplished, according to the students there that day. King, the retired marketing rep, said she enjoys playing bridge with friends about five days a week, but said pottery “gives me something real. It gives me grounding.” Robinson, the class newbie, said pottery-making has been good exercise for her arthritic hands, which she said can get very stiff. “It’s so much fun to come here. They’re just patient and kind and it gives you a sense of belonging,” Robinson said. “There’s no reason for elderly people to be isolated and alone when you can have fun like this.”
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HEALTH & FITNESS
SilverSneakers Fun
PHOTO COURTESY OF TIVITY HEALTH, INC.
By Judi Kanne Some of my friends and colleagues have expressed interest in the well-known national SilverSneakers workout program. Members frequently say they build strong relationships and healthy social connections with other members they’ve met through the physical fitness programs. Today, more than 70 types of classes are available through SilverSneakers, including boot camp, circuit training, strength and balance, tai chi, yoga and water aerobics, as noted on the MedicareWorld website. Also, according to MedicareWorld, the SilverSneakers program “offers something most traditional gyms don’t — social support.” “My SilverSneakers membership with Aetna Medicare has been a real blessing in my life,” said 79-year-old Anne Sheahan. She attends the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (aka “the J”). Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is among the insurance carriers that offer coverage of the SilverSneakers program. “Anthem is proud of our long-standing relationship with SilverSneakers,” said Hieu Nguyen, Medicare public relations director for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield. “We offer access to this program — designed for older adults — with our Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans. Our consumers express time and again that their involvement in SilverSneakers has made a significant impact on their ability to lead more active, healthier lives.”
A High Price for Inactivity
“Non-institutionalized adults 50 years or older spend $860 billion annually on healthcare,” states the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention website. In fact, four out of five of the most costly chronic
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JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
conditions among adults 50 years or older can be prevented or managed with physical activity, according to the website. “I attend SilverSneakers classes at LA Fitness in Decatur and Toco Hills, too,” said Joan Cioffi, retired Centers for Disease Control and Prevention executive. She said she’s noticed many of the folks are “regulars.” Cioffi added that the instructor in Decatur has a continuous overflow of students in her classes. “They offer a variety of classes, two of which keep me exercising Monday through Friday,” said Sheahan. “I am working to keep fit, at no expense to me!” Her husband Jim, 81, is a regular at ‘the J’, working out several mornings a week, she said. Cioffi said, “It’s a great one-hour program where teachers have their own style of making each class fun and invigorating, but the Decatur class is exemplary with cool music, chair and standing exercises, light weights, resistance bands and even balls to toss and catch.”
What’s New with SilverSneakers
Margie Wojciechowski is Senior Manager of Public Relations for Tivity Health, Inc. Tivity Health’s flagship products include SilverSneakers, Prime Fitness and WholeHealth Living. The new year will bring a broad range of new SilverSneaker benefits, she said. Wojciechowski included the following 2019 updates: ■ CollegeSave, the relatively new tuition discount program that will allow members to designate a beneficiary and accumulate points toward discounts at nearly 400 colleges based on the number of times they visit a participating fitness location. ■ SilverSneakers GO, a new mobile fitness application designed to meet the goals, preferences and lifestyle of active older adults.
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■ Digital access to the latest health education information, as well as information about social activities and networking, through SilverSneakers’ social media channels and SilverSneakers.com. ■ SilverSneakers On-Demand, which brings video workouts to members whenever and wherever they want them. Members log in and can choose from hundreds of workouts in multiple categories. The Sheahans said they’re particularly pleased to participate in the
Probably the most common question I’m asked about SilverSneakers is, “How do I get a membership card?” Actually, the answer is as easy as one, two, three:
1.
Check for your eligibility: Does your health plan include the SilverSneakers Fitness program? Although Medicare Part A and Part B do not, many ‘supplemental’ (or Medigap) policies do. Not sure? Call the number on your supplemental insurance card. Note that most Advantage Plans (Part C) do include SilverSneakers as a benefit.
2.
Find a location near you: The SilverSneakers’ website (silversneakers.com, then click ‘Find Fitness Locations’) will confirm that thousands of participating gyms can be found nationwide — and many are in the Atlanta area. Include your ZIP code when you search.
3. Take your 16-digit SilverSneakers number to any
participating location for added access to classes, equipment and amenities. Be aware that additional rules or limited hours may apply from gym to gym.
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relatively new CollegeSave Program. It’s brought to them through their Aetna health insurance plan and requires seven visits per month at a participating location. Together, the Sheahan grandparents accumulate college tuition savings (via discount points) for their designated student. Only “students between birth and August 31 prior to their junior year of high school are eligible,” however. “That would be Rachel, our granddaughter,” said Sheahan.
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HEALTH & FITNESS
Get Physically and Mentally Fit This Year Come See Why So Many Are Calling Sterling Estates Home
The new year is a great time to get creative with ways to stay healthy and warm at the same time. When older adults are both physically and mentally active, their risk for several chronic diseases is decreased, while overall brain health is increased. That’s great! If you’re ready to commit but need some guidance, here are some ideas to get you started.
• Beautifully Designed Neighborhoods on 10+ and 30+ Acres • Cottages and Apartments, Independent or Assisted • Robust Social & Residential Activities • Large Wellness Centers • Indoor Heated Saltwater Therapeutic Pools • Variety of Fine Dining Options • Cottage Floor Plans: All on One Level
Why Settle For Less? Come Live a Sterling Life!
Kristen Sumpter is the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent for the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension in Fulton County. She provides programming on food safety, health and nutrition, financial literacy and the home.
■ Start swimming: Visit a SilverSneakers location with a swimming pool and get moving! Swimming works the entire body, including the cardiovascular system, without putting stress on your body’s joints, muscles and skeletal system. Along with the endorphins that are being released while swimming, the stretching of the muscles can help the body later relax, which can further decrease anxiety and depression. ■ Join a social league: Several SilverSneakers affiliated gyms offer group workout classes where you can meet new friends. Other leagues in the Atlanta area include golf, softball, bowling and more that will increase overall physical fitness levels and broaden your social circle.
■ Start a book club: Book clubs allow you the chance to gain a new perspective on a topic while remaining socially active, decreasing your chance for cognitive decline or even dementia. If you’re like me and it can be hard to finish a book, book clubs also provide the extra accountability to finish what you started. ■ Move more around the house: While exercising thirty minutes a day, five days a week is recommended, any activity is good activity. Commit to standing up during commercial PIXABAY breaks, putting down your book every 15 minutes to do 10 squats, or walking every day after breakfast and dinner.
EAST COBB
4200 Lower Roswell Rd Marietta, GA 30068 678-946-4454
WEST COBB
3165 Dallas Hwy Marietta, GA 30064 770-255-7000
www.SterlingEstates.com 14
JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
■ Learn to play a musical instrument: Whether you’ve played an instrument in the past or not, it’s never too late to start now. Playing a musical instrument is a great way to sharpen your mind, quicken your fingers and take a walk down memory lane with some of your favorite tunes. While it might not be the best time of year to start walking outside because of the chill, there are plenty of things to commit to doing this season that will keep your body and brain active and healthy. Enjoy!
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Where to Work out Here are just a few places to slip on your silver sneakers. Find direct contact info and more locations at silversneakers.com. Be sure to check with your local fitness, senior and community centers. Many of them offer classes and facilities for SilverSneakers members. Arbor Terrace of Burnt Hickory Marietta, arborcompany.com Atlanta Medical Center Highland Athletic Club Atlanta, atlantamedicalcenter.com Briarwood Park Community Center Brookhaven, briarwoodparkga.org The Bridge at Austin Decatur, thebridgeataustin.org
Campbell-Stone Buckhead Senior Apartments Atlanta campbellstone.org/buckhead Decatur Christian Towers Decatur, christiantowers.com Dorothy C. Benson Senior Complex Sandy Springs, bensoncenter.org First Congregational Church Atlanta, firstchurchatl.org JenCare Senior Medical Centers Decatur and Brookhaven jencaremed.com Kerwin B. Lee Family Life Center Stone Mountain bereanchristianchurch.org/flc/ Keswick Park Community Building Chamblee, chambleega.com
Lou Walker Senior Center Lithonia, louwalkercenter.com
Saint Philip Church Atlanta, saintphilip.org
Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta Dunwoody, atlantajcc.org
Sandy Spring United Methodist Church Activity Center Sandy Springs, ssumc.org
North DeKalb Senior Center Chamblee, dekalbcountyga.gov
Stone Mountain Senior Campus at REACH Stone Mountain reachcdc.com
Park Place Senior Center Johns Creek, johnscreekga.gov Park Place at Newtown Park Johns Creek, johnscreekga.gov Peachtree Road United Methodist Church Atlanta, prumc.org Peregrine’s Landing at Holcomb Bridge Norcross peregrineseniorliving.com
Stone Mountain United Methodist Church Stone Mountain stonemountainfirst.org Stronghold Community Family Life Center Lithonia, strongholdcc.net The Wellness Center at DeKalb Medical Center Decatur dekalbmedicalcenter.org
Sometimes, Life Comes Down to the Millimeters Millimeters matter when an interventional cardiologist is opening blockages in your coronary arteries. The new CorPath Robotic Angioplasty puts the precision of a robot in the hands of your physician, often resulting in a quicker recovery. We are the only hospital in metro Atlanta offering this technology — it’s part of our commitment to offer the latest in cardiac advances to help you return to the people that matter most in your life.
Robotic Angioplasty — close to home
To learn more about our advances in cardiac care or to schedule an appointment, call (770) 956-STAR or visit WellStar.org/CorPath 18-WNFH-0400 - Robotic Angioplasty-Senior_Life_Reporter-10x6.185.indd 1
1:45 PM JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com12/18/18 15
HEALTH & FITNESS
Stay Ahead of Colon Cancer Did you know only 64.3 percent of Georgians who are 50 years old or older have been screened for colorectal cancer? That’s according to the 2016 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, which surveyed 400,000 adults across the country. Sadly, colorectal cancer is the secondleading cause of cancer deaths in Georgia and the U.S., according to the Georgia Department of Public Health. And it’s one disease where screening — through colonoscopy exams — can make a huge difference, the experts say. Dr. Alan Fixelle with Gastroenterology Consultants in Sandy Springs has personally undergone four colonoscopy exams. “My paternal grandmother died from colon cancer at the age of 54,” he said. “I practice what I preach. Colonoscopy exams are really quite simple and safe.” Colon cancer mortality is profoundly impacted by periodic screening exams, Fixelle tells his patients. “My feeling is that when patients make the effort to comply with screening examinations and complete the bowel prep, that the physician should take the time to inspect all of the ‘nooks and crannies’ Judith L. Kanne, within the colon,” he said. RN, BSN, BA In fact, when colorectal cancer is is a registered nurse and diagnosed at the localized stage, the freelance writer who lives five-year survival rate is 90 percent and in Atlanta. many people live much longer than five
years. For this reason, promoting colorectal cancer screening is a major priority for the American Cancer Society. “Screening can reduce death rates by preventing the disease through the detection and removal of polyps and also by detecting invasive colorectal cancer at earlier, more treatable stages,” says Kelly Durden, health systems manager for Atlanta Cancer Society. According to Durden, the lives of 468 Georgians per year could be saved — more than one per day — if the percentage being tested can increase from 64.3 to 80 percent. It’s a goal worth striving for. Although March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, don’t wait until then to make your appointment. The sooner you’re tested, the better, as colon cancer can be highly preventable if caught early.
BENSON MANOR A Retirement Housing Foundation ® Community
We call it home.
VELMA FARMER Resident since 2014
“Saint Anne’s Terrace has a beautiful setting and the staff is professional, friendly, courteous, which creates a family atmosphere. I’m very happy to be a part of this community.”
• Serving Buckhead community for over 30 years • Minutes from OK Café • Quiet residential neighborhood • Apartments tailored to personal needs
CALL US TO SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT 3100 Northside Parkway, NW Atlanta 30327 www.saintannesterrace.org • 404-238-9200
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JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
Benson Manor is a 76-unit affordable senior housing community designed with stone and sturdy wood-like siding. Each apartment is approximately 540 square feet. Benson Manor is conveniently located close to shopping, churches, medical facilities, and a major bus route. Residents must be 62 years of age or older. Some units have special features for mobility and sensory impaired persons. Income limitations are determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Residents pay 30 percent of their adjusted income for rent. Gross income must not exceed $26,200.00 for one person and $29,950.00 for two persons.
For An Application or More Information
Please Call 770-435-6406
2348 Benson Poole Rd. Smyrna, GA 30082
www.rhf.org
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Screening Tests
Screening for colorectal cancer is the process of looking for cancer in people who have no symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And according to WebMD, the “visual colonoscopy” is still the gold standard for many physicians. However, stool-based tests are generally well received by patients. While these tests are less invasive than the traditional colonoscopy, they do require more frequent checks. In 2014, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration approved a “do-ityourself” kit like Cologuard. Most user reports are positive, but since they’re relatively new, many people have questions about the test kits. It’s the first stool-based colorectal screening test that detects the presence of red blood cells and DNA mutations. And it can identify the presence of certain kinds of abnormal growths, which may be cancerous or indicate potential cancer growths. “Cologuard, like other screening methods, can give incorrect results ... a colonoscopy, however, can miss polyps, but the odds are
very low,” says WebMD’s website. The “do-it-yourself” kit is used for general screening adults of either sex, 50 years or older, who are at average risk for colorectal cancer. Cologuard states that the test is “not for everyone” and is “not a replacement for diagnostic colonoscopy or surveillance colonoscopy in high-risk individuals.” According to a 2018 Cologuard website, more than a million patients have already used their product for screening. The results are sent to your healthcare provider for follow-up care.
Visual Examinations
These visual tests look at the structure of the colon and rectum for any areas that appear abnormal. This is done either with a scope (a tube-like instrument with a light and tiny video camera on the end) put into the rectum, or with special imaging (x-ray) tests. Patients are kept comfortable by an anesthesiologist. Continued on page 18
A little help. A big difference. The assisted living services at The Piedmont at Buckhead Senior Living Community are about the whole family and the whole YOU. Of course, we can help you with your daily needs. But did you know you will also have options for fitness, socializing, healthy fine dining, and more? And services are tailored to you, so you’ll get just the right amount of help you need, when you request it. But the best part? No matter if you need a little help or a lot, the difference you’ll feel will be amazing. Please call The Piedmont at Buckhead to schedule your complimentary lunch and tour.
I n de p e n de n t & A s s i s t e d L i v i ng
650 Phipps Boulevard NE • Atlanta, GA
404.369.7523
ThePiedmontatBuckhead.com JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
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Stay Ahead of Colon Cancer Continued from page 17
Flexible sigmoidoscopy checks the lower third of the colon. The test is recommended every 5 to 10 years, depending on your family history. The colonoscopy is similar to flexible sigmoidoscopy, except the physician uses a longer, thin, flexible, lighted tube to check for polyps or cancer inside the rectum and the entire colon. During the colonoscopy, the doctor may find and then remove most polyps and some cancers. Colonoscopies are used as a follow-up test if anything unusual is found during one of the earlier screenings. You may have heard of CT colonographies (or virtual colonoscopies). X-rays and computers are used to produce images of an entire colon — and then they are displayed on a computer screen for the doctor to evaluate.
New Screening Guidelines
In May of 2018, the ACS updated their colorectal screening guidelines: ■ All U.S. adults of average colorectal cancer risk should undergo regular screening beginning at age 45 years. ■ Adults in good health should continue screening until age 75 years, beyond which the decision to continue screening should
COURTESY OF THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY
be individualized based on patient preferences, health status, life expectancy and screening history. Life can be one of those things that happens while making other plans. When planning your future activities like golf or tennis, playing with grandchildren and even continuing to travel, take a moment to check with your healthcare provider first. While you’re there, ask whether it’s time for your next colorectal screening. Make healthy aging a priority for 2019.
Music history class is in session. Rock on. Visit Macon and Rock Candy Tours have partnered to bring you the Rock ‘n Soul Riding Tour, a whole new musical adventure. Cruise by your favorite old haunts, digs, and studios, and get the low down from the grooviest guides in town. Get schooled now. Reserve your seat at rockcandytours.com
VisitMacon.org | 800.768.3401
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PETS
Pet Pick Meet Sheeba! This elegant 4-year-old beauty is ready to find a forever home. Sheeba was surrendered to the Atlanta Humane Society when her previous owners could no longer care for her, and since she used to live in a home, she’s already housebroken and knows a few basic commands. She loves to be petted (especially that spot right behind her ear), but sometimes she can be a little aloof and likes her independence. Sheeba is strong and has great endurance, so she would likely make a great running buddy or trail-hiking pal, but she also enjoys a good cuddle session and would love to binge your favorite Netflix show on the couch with you. Sheeba has been spayed and microchipped, and she’s up-to-date on vaccinations and ready to go home with you. For more information, please email adoptions@atlantahumane.org or visit her at the Atlanta Humane Society’s Mansell Campus, 1565 Mansell Road, Alpharetta 30009. For more adoptable pets and volunteer info, visit atlantahumane.org.
for her
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A better environment creates a better life. Our assisted living communities offer an environment with every detail and service thoughtfully designed to improve the health and lives of our residents so they can spend their time doing what they love. Call us at (770) 691-3900 or visit us online at DogwoodForest.com to learn more.
Dunwoody � Decatur � Grayson � Acworth
JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
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ROAD SCHOLAR
When living alone is no longer an option...
call us to find out how Georgia Medicaid can help you or your loved one find affordable care & housing in a licensed personal care home.
Six Historic Presidential Retreats You Can Visit By JoAnn Bell, Senior Vice President, Program Development, Road Scholar Being the President of the United States is stressful. Just like any hardworking American, sometimes presidents need a vacation — to rest and recharge. Today, many of the U.S. presidents’ vacation homes are preserved as historic sites and national parks where you can learn about their lives and legacies. Visit one of these Presidential Retreats from New Brunswick down to Texas Hill Country for your own revitalization and education.
Call (770) 466-7771
GEORGIA HEALTH SERVICES NETWORK Medicaid Provider for Personal Care Homes: SOURCE,CCSP, ICWP
155 Bankers Boulevard, Monroe, GA 30655
*As a licensed Georgia Medicaid Provider GHSN does not charge any fee for assessment and placement
www.georgiahealth.us Independently
together
Something about Somerby sparks happily ever after. Carole and Phil found a new freedom with Independent Living at Somerby. Now, they don’t worry about keeping a house or driving all over town to find activities. That let them find something a bit unexpected – each other. Somerby is Full of Life. What will it spark in you?
Call us today to learn more or schedule a personal visit.
INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE
S O M E R B Y S PA R K .C O M • 8 0 0 . 9 8 9 . 5 2 3 1
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROAD SCHOLAR
Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Campobello Island New Brunswick, Canada Franklin D. Roosevelt spent his childhood summers running, playing, bicycling, picnicking and swimming on the 2,800 acres of Campobello Island, a seaside resort for wealthy Victorian families, and he and Eleanor continued the tradition from 1909 until 1921 — the year President Roosevelt contracted polio. He returned three more times during his presidency. The island, accessible by bridge from Lubec, Maine, was opened as Roosevelt-Campobello International Park in 1964 for its historic significance and as a symbol of cooperation between the U.S. and Canada. Today, visitors can explore the Roosevelt’s “Red Cottage” during the summer or visit year-round for the hiking trails, beaches, bogs and lighthouses that call the island home. Road Scholar participants get exclusive access to lodge on the island in historic summer cottages as they learn about Franklin and Eleanor.
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Calvin Coolidge’s State Game Lodge
Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest Plantation
Custer, South Dakota A South Dakota state senator formally invited President Calvin Coolidge to the Black Hills with a glowing review of the natural beauty of the area, and in 1927, the State Game Lodge became the president’s Summer White House. His family, secret service and staff planned a three-week visit but stayed for three months. President Eisenhower also came in 1953 for a quick stopover. Visit Custer State Park to fish and ride horses just like President Coolidge and stay in his room (or Eisenhower’s room) at the historic State Game Lodge. Go on a buffalo safari and swing by Mount Rushmore nearby — dedicated by President Coolidge during his summer in the hills.
Bedford County, Virginia Thomas Jefferson and his wife Martha inherited a 4,819-acre plantation in Bedford County, Virginia from her father in 1773, and Thomas built a home of his own on the plantation from 1806 to 1816. Thought to be the first octagonal house in America, the house is renowned as a work of architectural brilliance. A nonprofit was created in 1983 to restore and preserve the plantation and its landscaping, and it remains a restoration in progress. Visit to admire Jefferson’s architectural legacy, learn about daily life in the 19th century for both elite and enslaved people or enjoy a nature hike, beer or wine tasting or visit with historical interpreters.
Lenbrook is expanding. So are your possibilities. Introducing Kingsboro at Lenbrook - the newest addition to the Lenbrook community. These 53 luxury Villas and Flats all come with the acclaimed amenities and lifestyle that have made Lenbrook Atlanta’s premier intown community for engaged senior living for more than 35 years. Scheduled for move-ins in early 2022, Lenbrook is currently taking fully refundable Priority Deposits for Kingsboro at Lenbrook.
Continued on page 22
All you want. More than you expect. Join us at our next Kingsboro at Lenbrook Preview Event Call 404-800-9717 kingsboroatlenbrook.org
To learn more about becoming a Priority Depositor, call us today at 404-800-9717 to attend one of our preview events. With only 53 residences being built, now is the time to reserve your place in line!
JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
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Are you about to retire? Are you interested in participating in an investigational memory intervention? We are currently looking for English-speaking volunteers over the age of 65 who are transitioning to retirement to take part in a 5-week Everyday Memory and Metacognitive Intervention study. We are interested in whether our program can help people improve their everyday memory.
Continued from page 21
Lyndon B. Johnson’s Texas White House
Georgia Tech’s Adult Cognition Lab Please call 404-894-7450 to participate in the study. Leave your name and phone number. You can also email Principal Investigator, Dr. Ann Pearman at ann.pearman@psych.gatech.edu to express your interest.
Texas Hill Country During his presidency, Lyndon B. Johnson spent 20 percent of his time in Texas Hill Country at the ranch that would become known as The Texas White House. When his wife, Lady Bird Johnson, donated the ranch to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park, she insisted that it remain a working ranch — a living demonstration of ranching “the LBJ way.” Head on down to Stonewall, Texas, to visit the ranch and its prizewinning Hereford cattle, descended from LBJ’s herd. See his reconstructed birthplace, his first school and the Johnson Family Cemetery. In nearby Johnson City, you can visit President Johnson’s boyhood home to learn about 1920s life in rural Texas and his grandfather’s log cabin settlement to learn about surviving cattle ranching in the 19th century!
Serving the Atlanta Metro Area Funeral Home • Crematory • Cemetery Cremation Garden • Columbarium
Robert & Christine Hunsaker, Owners
Direct Cremations starting at $595 Funeral Packages starting at $4,995 (including casket)
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Benjamin Harrison’s Congress Hall Cape May, New Jersey Once the premier seaside resort in the U.S., Cape May is known for its Victorian homes and historic celebrity visitors. Five U.S. presidents visited Cape May during their presidencies, each of them staying at the renowned Congress Hall resort. But none brought as much acclaim to the peninsula as Benjamin Harrison, who made the first floor of the hotel his Summer White House in 1891. A full restoration from 1995 to 2002 returned the hotel to its historic glory, and it is now a full-service resort open to visitors. President Harrison’s Cape May summer home did not survive, but you can still walk the halls of his Summer White House.
(770) 637-1531 • SouthernCremations.com 22
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Doctors Dedicated to Serving Seniors
Harry Truman’s Little White House Key West, Florida What became known as “The Little White House” was first built in 1890 as first officers’ quarters by the U.S. Navy. When President Harry Truman’s doctor recommended a warm vacation during his 19th month in office in 1946, the president headed for Key West. During his 11 winter visits to “The Little White House,” President Truman hosted cabinet members and officials for fishing trips, poker games and official state business. The house was visited by five other presidents, as well as other important historical figures like Thomas Edison. On your visit to Old Town Key West, stop in and see this home and now public museum, restored to its 1949 appearance when President Truman resided there.
OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: Respectful doctors who listen Dedicated specialists Medications provided on-site On-site tests and screenings
Road Scholar calls itself the nation’s largest educational travel organization for adults – a true university of the world This not-for-profit educational organization offers 5,500 extraordinary learning adventures in 150 countries and 50 states. Road Scholars are immersed in a variety of educational activities, enlisting renowned faculty and experts who offer insider access not available to most individuals. Dedicated to making educational travel available to everyone, Road Scholar offers financial aid for those who otherwise could not participate in its programs. Road Scholar educational adventures are created by Elderhostel, the not-for-profit world leader in educational travel for adults since 1975. Learn more at RoadScholar.org.
• VOL. 10 — FEBRUARY 2 - 15, 2018
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the controversial The rewrite of Overlay District Brookhaven-Peachtree up confusion for dewas intended to clear for homeowners velopers and calm fears the Brookhaven/ living in the area near Station. But the City Oglethorpe MARTA those in the Council member representing new law will allow area is concerned the and removes resfor much higher density redevelopments. change to idents’ power say the reCity officials, however, issues and, for the write clarifies density a way to enforce first time, gives them density restrictions. at its Jan. 23 3-1 The City Council voted the Overlay rewrite, meeting to approve in June and includa process that began until a few days beed public meetings up overlay was apfore the vote. The original in 2007. proved by DeKalb County
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CHARLIE HARPER, OF POLICYBEST EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
See COMMENTARY, page
10
Page 8 announc nonprofit PAGE 15
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Dale and Michael Yoss of the BBQ’n to hungry attendees Hebrew Hillbillies were at the Atlanta Kosher BBQ Festivalamong many cooks serving samples on Oct. 22 at Brook Run Park.
s.net reporternewspaper MARCH 2 - 15, 2018
History Center’s cyclorama
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• VOL. 12— NO. 5
Sandy Springs Reporter FACEBOOK.COM
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Life after death: Fami lies turn obituaries into protests against the stigma of addiction
lifts Josephine on and painting Lounge XS Ultra 50-foot-high the Lounge, Us- Highway, iPads. and on Buford all located paintbrushes withLounge, and state-ofliquor licenses told in January their old photographs ing were bringare2018. they for technology, not be renewed would the-art back alcohol painting the revised 130-year-old reason? Under ing theThe on page 13 See VENUES See to life. 23 STORY on page 8 See BATTLE on page
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on Jan. 25. The museum Atlanta History Center painting. of the painting at Buckhead’s of Atlanta” cyclorama must first complete a major restoration works on the “Battle this winter, but A painting conservator cyclorama exhibit plans to open the
T CHARLIE HARPER, OF POLICYBES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
page 10
Shooting his way to s award-winning height
See STANDOUT STUDENT
on page 6
See CHEF-DRIVE
OUT & ABOUT g’ ‘Dead Man Walkin author to speak at death penalty panel
Mayor Bottoms pledges to unite Atlanta in Buckhead speech
MAX BLAU Larry and Peggy Lord display a childhood photo of their sons Ashby and Hunter. Ashby, at right, died of a heroin overdose last year.
BY MAX BLAU
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n a Sunday afternoon last April, the moment Larry Lord had dreaded for roughly decades finally happened. two ANDREWS BY EVELYN His wife, Peggy, found newspapers.net their 35-year-old evelyn@reporter son Ashby no longer breathing Bot-basein the Keisha Lance ment of their Mayor ranch home not New Atlanta Sandy the city and on neSprings’ Mount to unite Paran Road. She toms promised tried performing CPR the Buckhead Coalition’s glect Buckhead, at and called 911. But nothing the paramedicsJan. 31. annual meeting on did could revive that afAshby ter a heroin to making sure overdose. committed am “I sure together to make Larry to work devastated. we continue was Like can posfamas itmany ily members after is asastrong death, he faced that our entire city impor-the task of writing “It’s so incredibly sibly be,” she said. an obituary so that one are newspapers and the we really funeral home could tant that we remember had inform their said at the event, which ones. Larry, an architect, Atlanta,” she loved considered himself a problem-solv on page 22 er. See MAYOR
N on page 12 reporternewspaper
New highway toll lanes could have major neighborhood impacts
on Georgia’s official site list for its Amazon quarters bid, residents heading both excitement and officials are voicand wariness over the potential city-sized complex coming to town. Michael and Renee Fraser have lived in Dunwoody for 22 years. They don’t remember ever seeing anything but grass on the High Street property in Perimeter Center near the Sandy Springs border. See EXCITEMENT on page 22 BY JOHN RUCH johnruch@reporternewspape rs.net
New toll lanes on I-285 and Ga. 400 could tower 30 feet or higher over neighborhood s on elevated ramps, eat into back yards, and plug major interchanges into such local streets as Mount Vernon Highway and Raider Drive in a state conceptual design that could start construction within five years. The “managed lanes” could have massive impacts on neighborhood character, local traffic and mass transit options, but the concepts remain largely unknown to the general public. The city of Sandy Springs is protesting parts of the concepts and suggesting some alternatives, but mostly behind the scenes. The Georgia Department of Transportation ’s first public meetings for the Ga. 400 lanes are expected to be held late this year after the conceptual designs are more solid. A rare public display of the behind-the-
PHIL MOSIER
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The city of Dunwoody’s Urban Renewal Agency expects to finalize with a developer plans next month for sign and constructi the deon of several rants as part restauof the long-plann ed Dunwoody Green project. Economic Developm ent Director chael Starling Misaid the URA is in the final stages of firming up a contract with developer Crim and Associates to build about five or six restaurant s on about 2.5 acres in what’s designated as the city’s Project Renaissan ce urban redevelopment plan. The restaurant s would be built around a small park space. The acreage, at the intersectio North Shallowfo n of rd Road and Dunwoody Park, is part of the Dunwoody commercial Green site within the larger Project Renaissan ce developme nt. “This is to be our Canton Street [in Ro-
s.net OUT & ABOUT ► Democratic candidate s Excitement, Gear I finally figure for governor up forstake the out d out positions PAGE 4 holida wariness over that a very effect ys national honor ive and craftsat arts ► City to require way to get back BY DYANA BAGBY | P16-20 mark ets m Amazon HQ2 ADVERTISING SECTION short-ter ternewspapers.net Page 18 SPECIALdyanabagby@repor at rental registration, poss the offspring ... ibility establishments are appealing Four local ANDREWS licensing PAGE 2 is to BY EVELYN renewing their als.net to deny ternewspaper the city’s decision evelyn@repor Coping BY approved bombard them DYANA ordinance SPECIAL with BAGBY ADVERTISING a Crisis: Opioid cohol licenses after an the fees from with dyanabagby@reporterne SECTION | P15-21 holding addictio license room liquor a gigantic In last year raised wspapers.net late Bitmojis. n in the suburbs EXCLUSIVE SERIES $100,000. “Battle oftoAtlanta” 359-foot-long approximately $5,000 With the High Restaurant & Street property Medusaalong Lounge,perched Rush workers cyclorama,
on page 6
s of NCR, what corporate relocation leaders: Amazon made clear have tipped off to state State Farm and others corporate retention of high wage The recruitment and Those counthe tracks of transit. employers will follow need not apply. ities without transit ties and municipal
| PAGE 22
BY DYANA BAGBY
See DENSITY on page 22
PHIL MOSIER
in Ashford from enjoying playtime and son Theodore, 2, stop Damon Gabriel S in the rain,” said Damon. REPORTER_NEW A Sunday shower didn’t “Theo and I love this park and playing TWITTER.COM/ Park on Jan. 28. NEWSPAPERS
NOV. 7
Chef-driven restaurants coming to Dunwoody Gree n
First of a 4-Part Series
The combination of prescription painkillers, heroin and synthetic opioids is killing people around the nation, Reporter Newspapers including within communities. In this exclusive four-part series, we will look at how local prosecutors, recovering families, nurses, addicts and others are responding to a that already kills moregrowing epidemic people than cars, guns or breast cancer each year. To share your thoughts and stories, email editor@reporternewspapers.ne t
A doctor’s overview of the opioid crisis. See Commentary , page 10 ► Usually, he could sketch out new doors or windows to make design problems disappear. He’d written obituaries, too,
most recently for his first by’s mother, Shannon, wife and Ashafter she died from complication s of cancer. But the circumstances of Ashby’s life posed difficult questions in how to talk about his death. Euphemisms are a tradition of sorts for overdose victims. Their obituaries say that they left this world or entered eternal rest while glossing over how it happened. The reasons vary from not speaking ill of the dead to a fear that it might reflect poorly on the living. “For many years, you never saw the word ‘addiction’ in an obit,” says Dr. Frances Levin, a psychiatry professor at Columbia University Medical Center. “That’s because of the stigma related to Continued on page
8
See NEW on page 14
City fears new state laws would end local controls
BY JOHN RUCH
johnruch@reporternewspapers.ne t
The city fears that several new state legislative proposals would undo recent local laws, from apartment construction to pet sales.
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join & toABOUT asked OUT NCR,Cities corporate relocations of ► Amazon made clear what leaders: regional affordable Man Walking’ have tipped off to state ‘Dead policy State Farm and others of high wage corporate housing to speak at The recruitment and retention 4 coun- PAGEauthor tracks of transit. Those panel employers will follow the apply. over Ga. 400 death of parkpenalty without transit need not ► Chair ties and municipalities ed
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One example is a proposed law that would kill Sandy Springs’ restriction on using wood to build large multifamily housing complexes. The proposal is “disastrous” and would allow “cheap apartments,” Mayor Rusty Paul is complaining. But state Rep. John Corbett (R-Lake Park), the bill’s lead sponsor, says the law would simply allow developers to be free to choose See CITY on page 13
JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
23
PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE
Chores are for kids? Not any more As I grow older, I find it harder to keep up with my chores. I grew up in the 50s and 60s, back when kids were supposed to do chores. TV told us so. You just knew that The Beaver had to feed the cat and even Eddie Haskell had to mow the lawn. But I don’t really remember having to do that many chores when I was young. I raked leaves and mowed grass. And, in high school, I learned to make my dad his nightly martini and to grill a steak so my mom could take an occasional night off from fixing dinner. But those were fun chores. The real chores started years later, after my wife and I bought a house. We’ve owned (or co-owned with the mortgage company) three of them over the past 35 or so years and the to-do lists that took root with the first one have grown like English ivy since. Suddenly, in addition to mowing the grass, I had to plant it, fertilize it and water it. And Joe Earle is editor-at-large at Reporter Newspaleaves required more than simple raking. I pers and has lived in had to bag them and set the bags on the street metro Atlanta for over or compost them, which meant I had to build 30 years. He can be compost piles and then feed those piles a steady reached at joeearle@ reporternewspapers.net diet of raked leaves and mowed grass and then worry whether all the weeds that sprouted in the compost would take over the rest of the yard. Troubles with plants didn’t end there. I had to keep an eye on the trees to make sure they didn’t fall on the house (one did, once, but that’s another story) and to remove the ones that couldn’t carry on and to plant new ones to take their places. I spent weekends perusing plant sales and Pike Nurseries to find new flowers, shrubs and trees to decorate my little piece of ground. Suddenly, I didn’t just water the yard, I had to landscape it, too. Every season brings its own set of chores. I’ve shoveled snow. I’ve fought kudzu. I’ve fought bamboo that snuck in under the fence from the next-door neighbors’ yard. I’ve fought furry varmints that burrowed underground and their cousins that lived in the trees. Any time the yard had been temporarily dealt with, I had to worry about every other part of the house. I had to fret about the roof. And the gutters. And the seedlings that took root in the gutters. And the squirrels who seemed dead set on moving into the attic and establishing a disco up
these days
PIXABAY
there for fuzzy-tailed rodents. I had to paint when the walls started to show their age. I had to fix cracks in the walls. I had to learn that the cracks come back no matter what you do or how often you think you’ve fixed them. In one house I bought and lived in, I had to go into the basement during every hard rain to turn on the sump pump by whacking it with a two-by-four. And the chores keep piling up. As I write this, dust needs dusting. Floors need vacuuming. Dishes stacked in the kitchen sink need washing. Lightbulbs need changing. The leaves I blew off the grass just a couple of days ago have been replaced by scores of their fallen friends. All that fancy flora I planted needs tending. Hedges need trimming. The lawn mower needs fixing so I can mow the grass again. The deck needs staining and sealing. The car is stuck in the driveway because it needs a new battery. A smoke detector started chirping yesterday because it needed a new battery. The showerhead needs replacing. The living room needs painting. Again. I thought that when retirement arrived, things would slow down. I thought that I would finally have the time to tackle my chores and to check off the items on my lengthening to-do list that I never had time to get to when I was working. But now that I actually qualify for Social Security, I find that I still can’t get to all the work that needs to be done. Then I remember: I’ve taught my son to make the martinis. Life is good, after all.
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SAFETY
Learn To Be Politely Skeptical In the November 2018 issue of “Atlanta Senior Life”, I wrote about the Grandma Scam, where the goal for the scammer is to tie into the emotions of the victim by posing as a grandchild, using his or her name to convince the victim that the call is legitimate. I spoke about the “trigger” that should set off your internal alarm. A trigger may come any time during the conversation but the clue that screams “scam” are requests for pre-paid debit or gift cards. If you recall, I said the first line of defense is to ask questions. Most scammers have only a one-level information to pitch you, in hopes you will buy the story. The more questions you ask, the more you chip away at that level, and the sooner you realize the call is a fraud. Remember, the only dumb question is the Steve Rose one you don’t ask. Steve Rose is a retired Fulton County and Sandy Springs Police Captain and freelance writer. He is the author the book “Why Do My Mystic Journeys Always Lead to the Waffle House” and column “View from a Cop.”
Let’s look at another popular scam — not so much targeting seniors but one that we see frequently. The IRS call comes in on a recorded line. You learn that you have “four outstanding tax issues” that call for a warrant to be issued. The local police will arrest you if you do not resolve these issues immediately. They leave a number to call. You call and the man on the other end says he’s agent so and so. The message is clear, you need to send us pre-paid debit or other transaction cards to clear this up and you need to do this now! If there were a reason to employ your skepticism, this is it. Two things immediately stand out about this short phone message, telling you the call is a fraud: 1. We, the IRS, issued warrants on four outstanding tax issues. The IRS’s two favorite words are interest and penalties. Why issue a warrant for taxes owed when they can collect interest and penalties? If you owe millions and it has been a while, yes, you may be looking at criminal charges but I have a feeling this is not our target audience. 2. The local cops are not involved with IRS enforcement. If FBI agents show up with their nice blue windbreakers and “FBI” plastered all over the back, armed with cardboard boxes to haul your computers and personal records away, the local cops will not be among them — unless they are standing in the road keeping things orderly. Therefore, in this brief message, you can see two mistakes. Maybe you don’t see them as screaming clues. But there’s certainly enough to turn on that skeptical button giving you the green light to start asking questions including: 1. What department are you employed by? (IRS is Treasury Department.) 2. What office are you out of and what is the address? (Gives you something to crosscheck.) 3. What is the office phone number so I can call and verify this conversation? (You will probably hear a click.) 4. Why are you asking for pre-paid cards instead of a check? 5. Aren’t you required to sing the IRS Fight Song? (I made that one up just to have some fun.) Be the predator, not the prey. Arming yourself with good information gives you plenty of ammo to ward off scammers.
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CALENDAR SPOTLIGHT
Plan to Compete!
Sign-ups for Senior Olympics begin early in the year By Julie E. Bloemeke Senior Olympics are one way for Georgia residents 50 and older to stay active and to foster healthy and competitive fun. Games and events take place on national and state levels but are also popular in a number of Atlanta metro counties. In 2019, games will be held in Gwinnett, Cherokee, Spalding and north Fulton counties.
Gwinnett Senior Golden Games
“The Golden Games is not only an event where participants can win a gold, silver or bronze medal, but can meet new people and build lasting friendships. It’s also an opportunity to become active, which we encourage all of our seniors to do,” says Shirley Snow, volunteer for the 2019 Gwinnett Senior Golden Games. Opening and closing awards ceremonies are a big draw for the Golden Games, which were started in 2000, according to Snow. This year she’s hoping not only to see more participants in the 50-to-60 age range but also to reach more than 400 registrants for 2019. “We had 347 in 2018, so hopefully we can hit 400 in 2019,” she said. Opening ceremonies are scheduled for March 27 with closing celebrations to be held on May 8. Events will be held at the Bethesda Senior Center. And the theme for this year? “Oldies But Goodies.” Popular events for the Golden Games in Gwinnett include bocce ball, horseshoes, holey board, bowling and a football throw. Snow says they’re considering new games but overall are hoping to “encourage more participants to try new events.” Additional tournaments include card games, croquet, archery, golf and swimming to name a few.
Georgia archer Ed Brown competes at the National Senior Games. Courtesy of Georgia Golden Olympics
Spalding County Senior Games
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The Spalding County Senior Games is a testament to what an important part of the year the senior Olympics have become. 2019 marks the 27th anniversary with tournaments beginning on Monday, April 8 and concluding on Friday, May 3. While events include golf, pickleball and walking for a half mile, one mile or two miles, the Spalding County Senior Center is also proud to emphasize exercising the brain as well as the body, according to Lauren C. Brown, Spalding County Senior Center Supervisor. In 2018, card games such as bridge and canasta were added, Brown said. Spalding County residents compete for gold, silver and bronze medals in a number of events, but the most popular draws are pickleball, horseshoes, walking events, clock golf, bridge, canasta, billiards, Wii bowling and shuffleboard. Brown anticipates even more participation in 2019 as “the center is currently maintaining around 1,400 active memberships.” Senior Center membership is required to participate, and registration opens Monday, Jan. 28. The awards ceremony on Friday May 3 “is a main attraction and continues to grow” Brown said. And as the “Senior Games is one of the largest events of the year, made possible by community donations and support,” Brown added that she’s looking forward to a memorable 2019.
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National Senior Games Gold medal winners Georgia Boys 60+ Team Courtesy of Georgia Golden Olympics
Fulton Golden Games
For the Fulton Golden Games, “more fun and camaraderie” is one of the goals for 2019 according to Kevin McDonald, Fulton Golden Games Coordinator. This is a big year for Fulton County, since it’s the 25th anniversary of the Senior Olympics; as a result, McDonald is expecting more than 500 participants. A collaborative effort by Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Sandy Springs, Roswell and Milton, opening ceremonies kick off on April 24 at Bell Memorial Park. Events from past years have included track and field, bridge, billiards, Bocce ball, Wii bowling, swimming and more. McDonald notes that many athletes have won medals in multiple events. One of their oldest seniors is Pat Hillman, who at 96 competed in 2018 opening day events, bocce and swimming. Ninety-two was a magic age for the Gwinnett Golden Games last year, as both the most senior male and female participants were that age. Snow adds that their youngest male athlete was 51 and their youngest female competitor was 50.
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JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
27
with debitapproval, cards not issued byqualifications, our bank. “Monthly Qualification Cycle” means a period beginning Account conditions, limits, timeframes, enrollments, and other requirements
Top, Georgia flag bearers in the National Senior Games Celebration of Athletes. Left, Jeanne Daprano of Fayetteville, 81, set a National Senior Games record time of 3:59 in the 800 meter race for women 80-84. Photo by Anacleto Rapping
Cherokee County Senior Olympics
Continued from page 27
Cherokee County Senior Olympics
In Cherokee County, Senior Olympics events usually take place during the month of April; 2019 details and dates are still in the works. Last year over 230 medals were given out to seniors ranging in age from 50 to 96, according to Diane Page, Treasurer for the Cherokee County Senior Olympics. Though Page says the top event is pickleball, 17 other games will be offered including Bocce ball, frisbee golf and basketball free throw, one-mile walk, billiards, Wii bowling, swimming and bowling. “Our goal is to create awareness of the abilities and capabilities of seniors and to help promote, maintain and improve health awareness and an interest in lifetime sports, recreation and physical activity,” Page said.
State and National Senior Games
County games are only part of the Senior Olympic fun. Georgia residents 50 and over will also have the opportunity will participate in the Georgia Golden Olympics on the state level. In 2018, this event was held in September in Warner Robins. Although detailed plans for 2019 are still in the works, interested seniors can visit georgiagoldenolympics.org for more information. The National Senior Games, which feature participants from all over the U.S., will take place in Albuquerque, N. M. from June 14 to June 25. According to the website, “the biennial competition for men and women 50 and over is the largest multi-sport event in the world for seniors.” Georgia is one of the states that’s already eligible and approved to register athletes for 2019. A “non-profit organization dedicated to motivating active adults to lead a healthy lifestyle through the senior games movement,” the NSGA drew in over 10,000 senior athletes participating in over 20 different sports for 2018.
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JANUARY 2019 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
When: in April, specific dates to be announced More info: cherokeecountyseniorolympics.com; or email cherokeecso@yahoo.com.
Fulton Golden Games
When: April 24 through May 23 More info: johnscreekga.gov, Recreation & Parks page, click on ‘Seniors,’ then ‘Fulton Golden Games’; or email Kevin McDonald, kmcdonald@alpharetta.ga.us.
Gwinnett Senior Golden Games
When: March 27 through May 8 Application deadline: March 1 More info: gwinnettseniorgoldengames.org; or email gsgginfo@googlegroups.com; or contact Debbie Reid, 706-684-0065.
Spalding County Senior Games
When: April 8 through May 3 Registration opens: January 28 More info: spaldingparksandrec.com, click on ‘Senior Center’; or find ‘Spalding County Senior Games’ on Facebook.
Georgia Golden Olympics
Dates and details to be announced. More info: georgiagoldenolympics.org
National Senior Games
When: June 14 through 25 Where: Albuquerque, N.M. More info: nsga.com
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SEE THE WORLD ON FILM
The Arts Meet Author Brad Taylor Sunday, Jan. 13, 3 p.m. Brad Taylor is the New York Times bestselling author of more than 12 novels. His latest, “Daughter of War,” is another heart-pounding thriller starring Taskforce operators Pike Logan and Jennifer Cahill. Free and open to the public. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Gwinnett County Public Library, Peachtree Corners Branch, 5570 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners 30092. Get details by calling 770-978-5154 or visiting gwinnettpl.org.
Callanwolde Artist Market Friday-Sunday, Jan. 25-27. Preview Party: Friday, 6-9 p.m. Market: Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The market includes jury-selected artists from around the Southeast as well as from Callanwolde’s visual arts programs whose work appeals to sophisticated patrons. A wide variety of media will be represented among the original, yet affordable, artwork. Admission is $5 per person. Proceeds support the center’s mission and programs. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, 980 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta 30306. Call 404-872-5338 or visit callanwolde.org for more info.
Atlanta Radio Theatre Company Live Saturday, Jan. 26, 1 p.m. The Atlanta Radio Theatre Company performs live audio drama for adults at a wide variety of events such as DragonCon, Mythic Journeys and the World Fantasy Convention. They’ve been performing for 24 years with specific focus on science fiction, horror and fantasy. Come hear performances of adaptations and original literary favorites. Gwinnett County Public Library, Suwanee Branch, 361 Main Street, Suwanee 30024. Find additional info and more events at gwinnettpl.org.
An Evening of Lost and Found Jewish Musical Treasures Saturday, Jan. 26, 7:30-9:30 p.m. The Joyce and Ramie Tritt Family Foundation and Congregation Etz Chaim invite you to a concert featuring our Scholar-in-Residence, Hankus Netsky, with vocalist Miryem-Khaye Siegel and violinist Abigale Reisman. Hebrew National Salvage is an evening of Hasidic melodies, gems from the Yiddish theatre, Klezmer dance tunes and Yiddish folksongs. Tickets are $20. Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre, 117 North Park Square, Marietta 30060. Call the box office at 770-293-0080 or visit earlsmithstrand.org for tickets and additional info.
2019
ATLANTA JEWISH
FILM FESTIVAL FEBRUARY 6-26
TICKETS ON SALE JANUARY 28 M O R E I N F O R M A T I O N A T A J F F. O R G
Broadway’s Next Hit Musical Friday, Feb. 1 & Saturday, Feb. 2, 8 p.m. This is the only unscripted theatrical awards show, with fresh songs and scenes every night. Each show is different since it’s improvised. Master improvisers gather hit Continued on page 30
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►Out & about Continued from page 29
song suggestions from the audience and create a spontaneous evening of music and laughter. The audience then votes for their favorite song and the cast turns it into a full-blown musical, complete with memorable characters, witty dialogue and plenty of plot twists. Part of the Performing Art Series. Tickets are $25 to $45. City Springs, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs 30328. Call the box office for tickets and info at 770-206-2022 or go to citysprings.com.
11th Annual spruill Jewelry Market Sunday, Feb. 10. The Student & Instructor Jewelry Market is a must-attend event for anyone who appreciates and supports art. The event falls just a few days before Valentine’s Day, and jewelry makes a great gift. You’ll also be shopping for a cause as the jewelry market is a fundraising event for Spruill Center for the Arts. Buy some beautiful jewelry and feel good about your purchase. Spruill Center for the Arts, 4681 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta 30338. Check for times and other details at spruillarts. org.
Gwinnett County Public Library. Get tips from a Social Security Public Affairs Specialist and receive information about benefits and tools for you and your family. This is a great pre-planning opportunity to hear a specialist and get answers to your questions. The program will be held on Jan. 12 program at the Suwanee Branch, 361 Main Street, Suwanee 30024, and on Jan. 18 at the Collins Hill Branch, 455 Camp Perrin Road, Lawrenceville 30043. For more information, call 770-978-5154 or visit gwinnettpl.org.
Marist Evening Series On-site registration on Monday, Jan. 14, 6-7 p.m. Online registration is open through Sunday, Jan. 13. Classes held on Mondays, Jan. 14, Jan. 28 and Feb. 4, 7-9 p.m. The series offers three evenings of courses for adults with topics that include: religion and spirituality; self-discovery, art history; photography; history and culture; and technology. Onsite registration held in the Marist School cafeteria. Marist School, 3790 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta 30319. Detailed course catalog with costs and online registration at marist.com/eveningseries. If you have any questions, contact Katie Brown at brownk@marist.com or call 770-936-6491.
European Bakeshop
Learn Something
Thursday, Jan. 17, 7-8:30 p.m. Learn diverse baking techniques and tackle challenging recipes from the other side of the Atlantic. European pastry is more than croissants and scones! $45 per seat. Publix Aprons Cooking School, 4305 State Bridge Road, Alpharetta 30005. Call 770-751-8560 for details and to reserve your spot.
Afford Your Medication and Stay Out of the Donut Hole
Training the Brain
Thursday, Jan. 10, 10-11 a.m. How do you find out through Medicare. gov what the best prescription drug plan is for you? Learn how to work with your doctor to formulate a plan for this year. Free; registration required. Freeman Poole Senior Center, 4025 S. Hurt Rd., Smyrna 30082. Call 770-801-3400 or visit cobbcounty.org for more information.
Thursday, Feb. 7, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Learn how brain-based therapy exercises and chiropractic neurology treatments could improve physical and mental function for people with movement disorders, neurodegenerative diseases and other health problems by creating new neurological pathways in the brain. Free; registration required. Senior Wellness Center, 1150 Powder Springs St., Suite 100, Marietta 30064. To find out more, call 770-528-5355 or visit cobbcounty.org.
Social Security Pre-Retirement Program Saturday, Jan. 12, 11 a.m. & Friday, Jan. 18, 10:30 a.m. Presented by
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Special Events 2019 Progressive Insurance Atlanta Boat Show Thursday-Sunday, Jan. 10-13; Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. For the show’s 57th year, visitors will find nearly 700 new boats, including houseboats, and enjoy interactive features and activities for families, boaters and anglers of all experience levels. Special events include the Boats & Brews Happy Hour, Nautical Knowledge Career Day and a new Toucha-Boat Tour. There’ll also be seminars hosted by professional fishermen, sailors and boaters as well as dealers offering special pricing for show visitors. Tickets are $15 for ages 13 and older; youth 12 and under are free, when accompanied by a paid adult. Discounts of $3 are available for advance online tickets and for military, law enforcement and firefighters, with valid ID. Georgia World Congress Center, Hall A, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd., Atlanta 30313. For tickets and more info, visit AtlantaBoatShow.com.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day at Atlanta History Center: Free Admission All Day Monday, January 21, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Enjoy free admission to the Atlanta History Center and Atlanta History Center Midtown in honor of Martin Luther King Day. Special programming is featured that spotlights the contributions and stories of African-Americans in Atlanta. Among the highlights is a 1 p.m. screening of Frederick Lewis’ documentary “Paul Laurence Dunbar: Beyond the Mask,” about the life and legacy of the first African American writer to achieve national and international fame, followed by a conversation with the filmmaker. Free. Atlanta History Center, 130 West Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta 30305. Visit AtlantaHistoryCenter.com to learn more.
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An Evening of Wonders starring Vitaly Beckman Saturday, Feb. 9, 8 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 10, 5 p.m. The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) presents one of Canada’s top illusionists. Reputed as one of the most captivating and enjoyable illusionists performing in the world today, Vitaly will breathe innovation and artistry into the field of magic at the MJCCA for two shows only. Ticket prices are $20 to $28. MJCCA, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody 30338. For more info, visit atlantajcc.org/boxoffice or call 678-812-4002.
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