Generations Magazine

Publication of the

GWINNETT

FALL/WINTER 2018 A Lifestyle, Health & Active Aging Magazine

enjoying

50

+

Get ready for Gwinnett’s

n e G h t 9 The family — The Warbington s a 9th generation y!

Gwinnettian famil

party of a lifetime Building a community of

Friends

4

THINGS EVERYONE SHOULD DO for lung health

LET’S FACE THE FACTS. If you’re over the age of 55 and have a history of smoking, you’re at a higher risk of developing lung cancer. Early detection is the best way to beat this devastating disease. gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/lungscreening

4

Things Everyone Should Do For Lung Health

BY NAN MCCORMICK, RN THORACIC ONCOLOGY (LUNG CANCER) COORDINATOR, GWINNETT MEDICAL CENTER

M

any of us take our lungs for granted without recognizing how much they really do on a daily basis.

With one major task, helping us breathe, lungs play an essential role in our overall health and wellbeing.

Unfortunately, there are multiple factors that impact lung health—these organs must contend with pollution, smoke and germs.

Overtime these factors can compound, taking a toll on your lungs and putting you at a higher risk of developing lung disease. With a multitude of lung conditions, one of the most serious being lung cancer, it’s important for each of us to learn more about promoting lung health.

Don’t smoke…and if you do, stop

Due to the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes, smoking can cause a host of health issues, including: • Multiple types of cancer: lung, bladder, cervical and throat, among several others • Higher blood pressure, which increases your risk of stroke or heart attack • Reduced blood flow, which can slow healing and cause wrinkles • With more resources than ever to aid in the quitting process, you can utilize support groups, classes and quit-smoking products to kick this bad habit for good.

The Freshstart Smoking Cessation Program is a free service of Gwinnett Medical Center that provides counseling, education and support for those interested in quitting smoking.

Avoid indoor and outdoor air pollutants

With several different sources of air pollution, both indoor and out-

door, it can be difficult to find truly fresh air. Things like carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and particulate matter are very harmful and are the result of many common pollutants.

By learning more about these common sources of air pollution, you can better avoid them and promote lung health: • Exhaust from cars, lawnmowers and buses • Mold and mildew • Individuals with infections • Some household chemicals • Radon (Gwinnett is among the top four counties in Georgia for highest predicted average indoor radon level)

Start doing breathing exercises

Our lungs need exercise just like the other muscles of our body.

To keep them functioning as they

should, breathing exercises help rid the stale air in your lungs, which increases oxygen levels and strengthens the diaphragm.

Two of the most popular breathing exercises recommended by the American Lung Association are:

• The Pursed Lip Breathing Exercise: Simply breathe in

through your nose and breathe out through your mouth with pursed lips. Exhaling should take at least twice as long as inhaling.

• The Belly Breathing Exercise: During this exercise you

will simply breathe in through your nose while paying attention to how your belly fills with air.

By placing your hands on your stomach, you can feel your belly rising and falling with each breath. Exhaling should take two to three times as long as inhaling.

Get screened

You’ve probably heard about routine screenings for breast health, prostate health, even colon health, but what about lung health? Well now there is a lung screening exam available that utilizes a low dose CT scan to determine if nodules or masses are present, even if you don’t have symptoms.

Recognized as a Center of Excellence by the Lung Cancer Alliance, Gwinnett Medical Center ensures that patients receive these screenings with the most up-to-date technology, care from experienced specialists and access to many helpful resources. By getting routine, annual screenings you are promoting the early detection of lung cancer in its most treatable stage.

To learn more about the lung cancer screening, visit gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/lungscreening.

G EN ER AT I O N S M AG AZI N E 3

INSIDE:

16

GWINNETT ROOTS RUN NINE GENERATIONS DEEP FOR WARBINGTON FAMILY

18 20

NEW TYPE OF PRIMARY CARE

MEMORIES FOR A 6 MAKING LIFETIME

24

PICKING THE RIGHT “BEST FRIEND” TO ADOPT

AT THE AURORA 9 VOLUNTEERING THEATRE

26

GET READY FOR GWINNETT’S PARTY OF A LIFETIME

Generations Fall/Winter 2018 Edition Features:

BUILDING A COMMUNITY OF FRIENDS

ON THE COVER: A Lifestyle, Health & Active Aging Magazine

Publication of the

GWINNETT

PUBLISHER / EVENTS — Noreen Brantner ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS — Janet McCray, Chad Ross, Janie Roling, Mary London, Beckie Smith CONTRIBUTING WRITERS — Beth Slaughter Sexton, Jon Gallo GRAPHIC DESIGN TEAM ­— Anna Yang, SCNI Creative Services GENERATIONS MAGAZINE (ADVERTISING INQUIRIES CONTACT): Gwinnett Daily Post / SCNI Events — (770) 963–9205 — Events@Scompapers.com — GwinnettDailyPost.com — SCNIevents.com Generations 50+ Boomers & Seniors magazine is published twice a year by the Gwinnett Daily Post / SCNI Events in conjunction with Generations Expo: a Lifestyle, Health and Active Aging event held each June in Gwinnett County, GA. GenerationsExpo.com

FALL/WINTER 2018 A Lifestyle, Health & Active Aging Magazine

enjoying

50+ Get ready for Gwinnett’s

The 9th Gen family — The Warbington a 9th generations !

Gwinnettian family

party of a lifetime Building a community of

Friends

4

THINGS EVERYONE SHOULD DO for lung health

THE WARBINGTON FAMILY

Once you see a game, you’ll be hooked...

gladiators.com 4 GENERATION S MAGAZINE

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES OFFERED DAILY Nature Trails Outdoor Exhibits Treetop Experiences ●

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Go on a 3D Movie Adventure in the Giant Screen Theater

FernbankMuseum.org @FernbankMuseum 404.929.6300 G EN ER AT I O N S M AG AZI N E

5

MAKING MEMORIES

FOR A LIFETIME

BY BETH SLAUGHTER SEXTON STAFF CORRESPONDENT

F

orget “Student of the Week” and “Line Leader.” Nothing makes a child feel like the most important person in the world than being the center of attention for grandmama and granddaddy. Memories made in childhood bring warm thoughts in later years on those special times, whether simply sitting and talking with grandparents or having fun together at special outings.

and grandchildren is the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, located at 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive in Atlanta. The museum even offers a special grandparents’ package for $150. Two grandparents, age 55 and up are free to bring all grandchildren under the age of 18, during this 12-month membership. There are other perks, as well.

“Approximately 15 percent of our ticket buyers are baby boomers,” says Stacey Lucas, director of strategic advancement and marketing for the museum. “We often see multi-generational families having fun and exploring together on the museum floor.”

For grandparents, keeping their energetic grandchildren entertained sometimes presents a Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a non-profit challenge, but grandparents in and around Gwineducation venue that “strives to spark every nett have an almost unlimited number of things to child’s imagination, sense of discovery and learndo and places to go. Some ing through the power of of these events are coming play.” up soon, so grandparents, Visitors enjoy Daniel TiFor ticket information or more get ready. There are new ger’s Neighborhood; Run! details, visit these websites: memories to be made.

Jump! Fly! Adventures in AcOne such event is Sestion and Doc McStuffins, as SesameStreetLive.com ame Street Live! Make Your well as other exhibits such as Magic, sponsored by Feld Fundamentally Food, GateMarvelUniverseLive.com Entertainment and opening way to the World, Leaping at Infinite Energy Arena in into Learning, Let Your CreDisneyOnIce.com Gwinnett Nov. 9 and running ativity Flow, Step Up to SciMosterJam.com through Nov. 11. ence and others.

“We do see a lot of famiFernbank Museum of SupercrossLive.com lies that span generations at Natural History is also a faour shows,” says Nicole Feld, vorite place for grandparents childrensmuseumatlanta.org executive vice-president for and grandchildren. Located fernbankmuseum.org Feld Entertainment. “I think at 767 Clifton Road in Atgrandparents find that they lanta, the museum offers a are having as much fun durFamily Adventurer membering our shows as their grandchildren because they ship, which allows grandparents to purchase a are reliving their own experiences of growing up membership for their kids and grandkids and add with these iconic brands. They remember the Disthemselves on the membership as a caregiver. ney music and stories, watching Sesame Street Museum officials say gift memberships are popuLive! with their own children, reading the Marvel lar during the holidays. comics or the classic Monster Jam truck, Grave “We definitely see a lot of seniors here whethDigger.” er with their grandchildren, their entire family or Next year, Feld Entertainment presents Maron their own or as part of a group visit,” Fernvel Universe Live! at Gwinnett’s Infinite Energy bank’s Brandi Berry said. “... Some of the most Arena Feb. 21-24, and then Disney on Ice: 100 popular activities they enjoy are the children’s Years of Magic April 25-28. The arena is located at exhibit, NatureQuest, the 3D giant screen movies 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth. Feld Entertainand outside explorations in WildWoods.” ment also presents Monster Jam Feb. 23-24, and Berry said grandparents and grandchildren Monster Supercross March 2, both at Mercedesenjoy Tadpole Tales, Animal Encounters, Excellent Benz Stadium, located at 1 AMB Drive in Atlanta.

Experiments, Nature Walks and Discovery Days, “I love seeing families enjoy the shows togethsuch as Dinosaur Trick-or-Treat, Dinosaur Birthday er,” Feld said. “It brings back indelible memories Bash and Reptile Day, to name a few. from my childhood when I participated in the exSometimes grandparents enjoy Fernbank perience with my own parents and grandparents.” so much they come back on their own. A numFeld said as a parent, it is sentimental for ber have even signed up to volunteer at the muher to enjoy these live events with her child and seum. Whether they come alone or if they bring parents at the same time, adding that these are the grandkids, seniors enjoy Fernbank’s movies, events all ages enjoy. exhibits and cultural offerings. Berry said The Silk Road exhibit will be featured next year and she Another favorite destination for grandparents expects it will be popular for all ages.

6 GENERATION S MAGAZINE

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Volunteering AT THE AURORA THEATRE

Sandi Chambers

BY BETH SLAUGHTER SEXTON STAFF CORRESPONDENT

“We want to make them feel like they are watching a show at their home, so if we see a piece of paper on the ground, we pick it up.”

S

Volunteers are also counted on to improve the overall experience for the on-stage performers.

Between hours of rehearsals and the constant tinkering with a show’s sound and lighting, the days leading up to Opening Night are hectic.

andi Chambers has never headlined a show at the Aurora Theatre and her name has never been showcased in the Lawrenceville venue’s promotional materials that highlight any of the more than 800 events it holds annually.

“But that doesn’t mean she isn’t a rock star, because she is,” said Robby Owenby, who coordinates the Aurora Theatre’s Volunteer Program along with Al Stilo, the director of sales and marketing. “She’s spectacular. I don’t know what we’d do without her. Everyone at the Aurora Theatre knows who Sandi Chambers is.”

Chances are, if you’ve been to the Aurora Theatre, you’ve seen Chambers. She does everything except taking the stage. She’s become a role model for the hundreds of volunteers who dedicate their time so the Aurora Theatre can continue to be one of the region’s top theatres.

“Volunteering at the Aurora Theatre is a different atmosphere than I’ve ever been in because it is magical to help someone transform into an entirely different person on stage,” said Chambers, a Lawrenceville resident who has been volunteering at the Aurora Theatre for five years. “I’ve always been a fan of going to the theatre, but being a volunteer gives me a peak behind the curtain that no a lot of people get to see. It’s been such as great experience for me.”

Volunteers are Aurora Theatre’s backbone.

Without them, the Aurora Theatre wouldn’t be what it is today – an award-winning venue that has become the lynchpin in the county’s arts scene.

“I’ll say this: Without volunteers, we would still have a theatre, but we wouldn’t be doing what we do now,” Stilo said. “We wouldn’t have nearly the number of events every year and we would have to charge much, much more for tickets because of overhead costs.”

But fortunately for Aurora, it has volunteers.

Aurora Theatre volunteers from "Be Here Now” in Oct. 2018 A nonprofit, the Aurora Theatre has a budget of around $3 million. But by having such a large and dedicated contingent of volunteers providing their services, the Aurora Theatre can spend its money in other areas of its productions. Instead of having to pay ushers, concession workers, ticket sellers and costume assistants – all jobs done by volunteers – the Aurora Theatre can use the money to ensure the top talent takes its stage.

“Everyone at the Aurora Theatre is so welcoming and it is a great environment,” said Cynthia Barrett, who stars as Bari in “Be Here Now,” which played at Aurora in Sept.– Oct. 2018. “You really get a community feel. They have a great team and the volunteers make you feel at home.”

Volunteers are very much the face of the Aurora Theatre, since they are the ones interacting with customers directly. While the actors and actresses on stage certainly connect with the audience, the volunteers are the ones greeting patrons, ushering them to their seats, selling them refreshments and answering any questions.

“Everyone is working for the same end result – and that’s make sure all of our patrons feel comfortable and welcomed and enjoy the show so they want to come back,” Chambers, who’s retired, said.

“After five hours of rehearsing, we take a twohour break for dinner,” Stilo said. “But instead of having the cast go out on their own to find something to eat, our volunteers bring in food. We’ll have a themed night, like Italian Night, and we’ll set up tables and everyone gets a plate and eats together. You can see how much the cast values what our volunteers do.”

The Aurora’s theatre professional shows, such as “The Two Kids That Blow Sh*t Up” and “Be Here Now” aren’t the only performances who benefit from having volunteers. The venue holds plenty of events geared toward kids, who require supervision.

Volunteers under the age of 15 must be accompanied at all times by an adult, while those between 15 and 18 years old can volunteer, provided they have a parent’s permission. However, the Aurora Theatre prides itself on having volunteers of all ages, including many who are senior citizens. Those looking to volunteer should visit auroratheatre.com.

“All you need to do is come with an open mind and an open heart,” Chambers said, “and make sure you are ready for an adventure.”

For more information on volunteering at Aurora Theatre, please contact Robby at Volunteer@auroratheatre.com and visit AuroraTheatre.com to fill out the Volunteer Information Form.

G EN ER AT I O N S M AG AZI N E 9

Say That Again...

BY BETH SLAUGHTER SEXTON STAFF CORRESPONDENT

B

lame the usual suspects. Fear and denial. As people get older, admitting their hearing is getting worse is not always easy to accept. But getting help for the problem can be as simple as making the right phone call.

“Unfortunately, the average person that gets hearing aids has needed them for seven years,” according to William Dennison of Dennison Hearing Solutions. “This happens for many reasons, including denial and fear, but the benefits of hearing aids—especially the technology of today—are just too great to ignore. I’ve never had a patient tell me they wish they had waited another couple of years, but I’ve had plenty tell me they wish they had done something.”

Dennison recommends annual hearing checks beginning at 55, to establish a healthy baseline for the years ahead.

“If you’re around any type of noise that would require you to raise your voice to be heard over it, you really should have some form of ear protection in order to prevent hearing loss,”

he added. “This is especially true for anyone working with yard equipment or machinery that can be very loud.”

He said ear muffs or foam inserts offer protection, but reminds those using foam inserts to pinch them so they easily slide all the way into the ear canal and are able to expand.

Dennison has seen in his own family how hearing loss impacts lives. His grandparents on both sides and his mother have all dealt with diminished hearing.

“I’ve seen first hand how frustrating hearing loss can be for all involved,” he said. “The person speaking gets frustrated because they’re having to repeat themselves. The person with the loss gets frustrated because their body is literally failing them.”

Dennison said people often have a misunderstanding in thinking that “hearing loss means you can’t hear something.” He said a person may hear some sounds, but not others, so he says it may be more accurate to say hearing loss means a lack of clarity.

“That adds to the frustration because you can hear some things, but just not enough to always respond as

you would like,” he said.

Dennison literally grew up learning about hearing and watching people get help for their hearing problems. He was six years old when his mother, Dr. Laura Dennison, who holds a doctorate in audiology opened her practice the Tuesday after Labor Day in 1988.

“I grew up being inspired by her,” he said. “...There were days I would spend in her office seeing how she interacted with patients. Those days at the office taught me, first, how important a patient-centered focus is and secondly, how strong the impact hearing aids can have on someone. Being told that part of your body is failing you can be sad, scary and frustrating and it truly does take a caring touch to work with someone through the entire process.”

The desire to provide such care to patients is what led him to open his own practice in Dacula on Sept. 4, right after Labor Day, 30 years exactly after his mother opened her practice. Dr. Dennison is serving as chief audiology adviser and audiology consultant at her son’s practice.

“She is also a valuable resource on managing and building the practice,”

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William Dennison said. “I feel very fortunate to be starting with her foundation of knowledge.”

Located at 3511 Braselton Highway, Suite G100, in Dacula, Dennison Hearing Solutions offers a range of services from screenings to help with tinnitus to hearing aids and fittings.

“Hearing aids today, like all technologies are becoming better all the time,” Dennison said.

Having worked in the hearing health industry for more than seven years helping thousands of patients by providing hearing aids and tinnitus management, Dennison is nationally board certified in the hearing instrument sciences and holds a bachelor’s of science degree and a master’s degree from Georgia College and State University.

“If patients do not trust that you have their best interest at heart, they may delay treatment,” he said. “I have seen it many times when someone’s loss was not handled compassionately and they delayed care, suffering needlessly for, in some cases, years.”

Call to schedule a personal tour.

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10 GENERATION S MAGAZINE

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Chuck’s k indergar photo 197 ten 6 Charles and his mother 1941

arbington 1950

Gwinnett Roots Run

Betty Leach W

Nine Generations

Deep for Warbington Family

W

ith bombs bursting in air amid the rockets' red glare, Francis Scott Key wrote a poem that became America's National Anthem. Meanwhile, “Major” Ellemander Warbington was busy fighting those launching the bombs and rockets, helping drive out the British from the land of the free and the home of the brave.

The War of 1812 was a defining moment for the young nation and for a young man who would soon settle in a young county known as Gwinnett. Warbington would become the forefather of a family whose name is still found today in leadership positions and whose members continue to serve the county they have called home for nine generations.

The Warbington family's Gwinnett County roots began deep in the soil of the large farm “Major” Warbington owned on the Gwinnett-DeKalb County line—a place now known as Best Friend Road in Norcross. “Major,” which was a nickname, actually fought as a private in the war and historical records show he applied for a soldier's pension in 1871.

16 GENERATION S MAGAZINE

BY BETH SLAUGHTER SEXTON STAFF CORRESPONDENT

The Leach Family 1935

Today, 147 years later, the soldier's great-greatgreat-great-grandson, Chuck Warbington is leading the way as city manager for Gwinnett's county seat of Lawrenceville.

to take every opportunity to be the leader whether it was in sports, student council, Beta Club, band, chorus, etc. This laid the groundwork for continuing that in my career in the private and public arena.”

Warbington said he is often reminded about Betty and Charles Warbington are proud of all the history of his family in Gwinnett during convertheir children--daughter Charmen and sons Chuck sations about “what used to be here” as developand Chad. All three grew up going to the same ment continues throughout the county. He is also Dacula schools their father attended and where he reminded of his roots when he drives by the conplayed basketball. crete stairs still standing on a piece of property off the Braselton Highway, or Highway 124, that once belonged to the house where his father grew up.

The Warbington Family 1974 “Recently, my parents completed research on our family ancestry for induction into the First Families of Gwinnett,” he said. “To see records of my forefathers who fought in the American Revolution or Civil War makes me pause to think about how deep roots I have not only in this county, but my country.”

Much has changed in the county since Warbington graduated from Dacula High School in 1989, with classmates he first met at Dacula Elementary.

“There was a long standing bond of friendship when our class graduated,” he said. “...Some of the most exciting memories growing up would be the football seasons at Dacula High School. Up until 1987—almost 30 years—Dacula had never had a winning football season. In fact, my freshman year, 1985, we had 18 players and went winless, 0-10. However, my junior year, 1987, our team went 10-0 and made the playoffs for the first time. It was an amazing year where the entire community would shut down for the games and it would be standing room only...”

Warbington grew up exploring the land behind his family's home with his brother, riding three wheelers and making trails in the area now occupied by Mountain View High School and the Mall of Georgia. Much like his father before him, his life centered around family, school, church and sports.

His family worshiped many years at Hog Mountain Baptist Church and then went to Hebron Baptist where he met his wife, Stacey. They married in 1996, and are the parents of four children.

“Gwinnett has the total package for raising a family, including high quality education, recreation, opportunities and general overall fabulous quality of life,” Warbington said. “My hope is that after college, my children will settle in Gwinnett and enjoy the same amenities of the county as we have over the years.”

He said he tries to instill the same traits into his children that his parents imparted to him.

“Work hard and try to be the best at everything you do,” he said. “Be available and be there for your friends, neighbors and community and finally, family is priority...”

He appreciates the impact his parents have had on his life.

“My parents always pushed me to be the best in everything I was involved in, including becoming a leader either by position or reputation,” Warbington added. “They encouraged me early in my life

“Our children graduated at the top of their class in 1987, 1989 and 1991, respectively,” Mrs. Warbington said. “All three graduated with honors from Georgia Tech with engineering degrees in 1991, 1993 and 1995, respectively. Needless to say, we are very proud of our children.”

Charmen and Chris Simon live in Snellville and are the parents of Christian, a freshman at Berry College and Cara, a seventh grader at Providence Christian Academy in Lilburn. Chuck and Stacey Warbington live in Gwinnett's Auburn area and are the parents of Wesley, a UGA sophomore and three children who are students at Hebron Christian Academy; William, a senior; Riley a sophomore and Tyler, a seventh grader. Chad and Suzanna Warbington live in Albany, where he owns Shutters Plus.

They are the parents of three daughters who attend Sherwood Christian Academy; Emma, a senior; Julia, a sophomore and Grace, who is in fourth grade.

Designated as one of the First Families of Gwinnett, the Warbingtons have an extensive family history in the county that starts with “Major” Warbington and continues with the most recent generations still working and growing up in the area. Charmen, Chuck and Chad's father, Charles Alfred Warbington is the only child born to Lucile Mosley Warbington and Alfred Hinton Warbington.

“I've never lived more than three miles from the place where I was born,” he said. “My community of Hog Mountain is very special to me because there is so much history there.”

Charles Warbington grew up with both sets of grandparents living only a few miles down the road. His grandfathers, Henry James Mosley and Alfred “Sam” Telfare Warbington were farmers. His grandmothers, Alma Knight Mosley and Mary Jane Bowen Warbington were homemakers. In 1950, his

father bought a general store at the corner of Highways 124 and 324, which were both dirt roads back then, but now form a major intersection. Warbington's family lived in the rear portion of the store, which was a meeting place as customers came to talk over the events of the day.

After graduating from high school in 1958, Warbington went to work and then joined the National Guard in 1963. He and Betty married in 1966, and built their home on Highway 124, less than a mile from the family's general store. His parents sold the store and built a house next to their son, living there for the next 38 years. In 1969, Warbington went to work for the federal government's General Services Administration (GSA) in Duluth, retiring in 1996. He enjoys restoring cars and antique trucks, as well as collecting Gulf Oil and Gas signs and memorabilia.

Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Leach Warbington's family has an impressive Gwinnett heritage of its own that dates back to 1820. Mrs. Warbington was born in the Kelly Clinic at the corner of Perry and Pike streets in downtown Lawrenceville. Both sets of grandparents, Wiley and Elizabeth “Bettie” Brown Benson and James William and Elizabeth Palmer Leach lived two blocks from the square. Her parents, William Calvin and Marjorie Benson Leach graduated from Lawrenceville High School in 1928. Both families attended the First Baptist Church of Lawrenceville. Her parents moved the family to Tucker, where her father and her two brothers, Bill and Bob Leach opened Tucker Body Shop, which is in its 58th year of operation.

Both her brothers and their families live in Gwinnett.

Through the years, Mrs. Warbington has worked as a stay-at-home mom; for the Communicable Disease Center, today's CDC; First Baptist of Lawrenceville Preschool 16 years and GSA's Contract Division and U.S. Geological Survey, retiring in 2009 from the personnel office as a benefits specialist.

A history aficionado, Mrs. Warbington is a longtime volunteer for the Gwinnett Historical Society and the Fort Daniel Foundation at Hog Mountain.

She is co-president and assistant treasurer for the historical society and treasurer of the Fort Daniel Foundation. She and her family are involved in helping plan Gwinnett's bicentennial celebration this year.

Citing the History of Gwinnett County, 18181943, Mrs. Warbington said it shows her greatgreat-great great-grandfather, Enoch Benson , who fought in the Revolutionary War, was a fellow commissioner who worked alongside Gwinnett County founder and commissioner Elisha Winn to view the land and mark a road from Lawrenceville to Price's Bridge in Jackson County. Learning about this was a special surprise for her.

“Because of my involvement with the Gwinnett Historical Society, I spend a lot of time at the Winn House,” Mrs. Warbington said. “And when I think that Elisha Winn and my fourth greatgrandfather were friends and probably spent time together at the Winn House 200 years ago, I can hardly believe it.”

G EN ER AT I O N S M AG AZI N E 17

Type of Primary Care eorgia is facing a crisis in primary care — the state does not have enough providers to care for its residents. Having a primary care

provider lowers the odds of premature death and saves an estimated 33 percent on health care expenses, yet many Georgians do not have one (according to a recent study, 42 percent of men and 25 percent of women do not have a primary care provider). For adults on Medicare, this crisis can be particularly dangerous because they often have multiple chronic conditions.

Starting this fall, seniors in Lawrenceville will have access to a new type of primary care. Iora Primary Care is a doctor’s office for adults on Medicare with a new practice now open in Lawrenceville.

Dr. Harendra Fernando is one of the doctors who will be providing care for patients in Lawrenceville. “I had the privilege of working at an Iora Primary Care practice while in residency, and I saw the powerful impacts of creating lasting relationships with my patients. Iora gives us the time and resources to follow through and provide

18 GENERATION S MAGAZINE

the best experience for our patients. I am thrilled for the opportunity to provide better care for the residents of Lawrenceville and Gwinnett County,” said Dr. Fernando.

At Iora, each patient gets a team dedicated to their care, including a physician or nurse practitioner, Health Coach, Team Nurse, Behavioral Health Specialist, Clinical Team Manager, and an Operations Assistant.

Health Coaches are one of the unique ways Iora builds relationships with patients. Health Coaches spend more time with their patients and get to know them in a way that is rare in

health care. Together with the patient, a Health Coach helps identify and set goals that are both meaningful to the patient and beneficial to their health.

Health Coaches also help patients stay accountable to their goals by supporting them through in person visits, calls, text messages and emails.

Health Coach Jorie Harris is looking forward to getting to know her patients in Gwinnett County, “A health coach is such an important and unique role. I can sit with a patient and review meals and dietary goals, ask about how they get around town or serve as a resource for questions about their

specialists’ appointments. I’m available to call upon when patients are in crisis, and they appreciate knowing that someone who knows them is available to help when they need it,” said Harris.

Iora Primary Care also offers group fitness and health education classes for local residents like yoga and diabetes education. Most classes at Iora Primary Care are free and open to the community.

Iora Primary Care has practices across the country from Seattle to Boston, and this marks their first entry into Georgia. Iora has been caring for patients since 2011, and reports both high rates of patient satisfaction and improved health - Iora’s patients go to the hospital less (40% decrease in hospitalizations), visit the emergency room less (20% decrease in ER visits) and love the care they receive (Iora reports a 90 net promoter score compared to industry averages of 3).

Iora Primary Care is welcoming new patients. The practice will be hosting a Grand Opening Celebration on November 7 from 11 am-1 pm at Iora Primary Care 4850 Sugarloaf Parkway, Suite 101, Lawrenceville. Guests will enjoy music, lunch and practice tours and have an opportunity to meet the care team. Come join us for the Grand Opening or stop by anytime.

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Building a Community of Friends

BY BETH SLAUGHTER SEXTON STAFF CORRESPONDENT

S

herri Williams saw how happy her parents were living in a Hawthorn community and wanted to live there too.

When Linwood Estates, Hawthorn’s newest senior living community opens in Gwinnett County this fall, Williams will be among its first residents.

Her parents moved into a Hawthorn community seven years ago and Williams said she was so impressed with the company, she joined its staff. Now helping to market Linwood Estates, Williams will join its two sets of managers and move in when it opens.

Hawthorn’s Amber Chamberlain said one feature that sets the company apart is its community managers live on site and are usually two husband and wife couples.

Chamberlain is working with Williams on marketing Linwood Estates, which is in the final stages of construction at 1611 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road in Lawrenceville. An independent retirement community, it has 137 units with more than 50 floor plan choices.

“Our studio, one and two-bedroom suites ensure you will have no buy-in fees or hidden costs,” Chamberlain said.

“All utilities except telephone are included in the monthly rent. Our residents breathe easy knowing their budget will be balanced and easy to manage.” She said the community is “filling fast” and encourages those interested to call 678647-7928 for a tour.

The common area includes a beauty/barber shop, library, fitness center, activity room, billiards, game room, movie theater, chapel and a business center.

Each apartment has individual climate control, large bathrooms, walk-in showers, a kitchenette, a full-size refrigerator, cable television service and a 24hour emergency call system. Three chefprepared meals are served each day and services include weekly housekeeping, linen service, planned activities, day trips and scheduled transportation to run errands or attend doctor appointments.

Chamberlain said each private apartment is rented month-to-month with no buy-in fees, so residents can enjoy retirement without the worry of leases or additional hidden costs, expenses or other add-ons.

“It’s a lifestyle that has spoiled me,” said Williams, who presently lives in another Hawthorn community. “We get a chance to spoil our residents. They don’t have to worry about yard work or worry about the house...I wanted to help other people have what my parents had in a gracious retirement lifestyle.”

Based in Vancouver, Wash., Hawthorn has 70 senior living communities throughout the U.S. and Canada with options including retirement living, assisted living, personal care and memory care. Linwood Estates in Lawrenceville joins other Hawthorn properties in the Georgia cities of Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Roswell.

MY HAPPIEST MOMENT:

Feeling safe and loved by staf f

Regular Exercise

t Social O ppor

unit ies

Safet y & Secu rit y

ed Meals

Well Balanc

At Linwood Estates we know staying socially connected and feeling engaged becomes more important as we age. Healthy relationships, good nutrition and regular fitness programs are all included in our reasonable monthly rent! We also take care of the cooking, weekly housekeeping, and local transportation. Please accept our invitation to learn more about Linwood Estates. We’d love to answer any questions you have about our gracious retirement lifestyle!

Call today for more information and to schedule your personal tour!

678-647-7928 20 GENERATION S MAGAZINE

© 2018 HSL

1611 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road Lawrenceville, GA 30043

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Exercise and Learning Study Volunteers are needed for a research study being conducted by Dr. Amy Rodriguez at the Atlanta VA Medical Center. The purpose of the study is to see if aerobic exercise improves word learning in healthy older adults and people with aphasia.

• You must be 65-89 years old (healthy older adults) or 35-89 years old (people with aphasia) to participate.

• You will be compensated for your time.

• If you are interested in hearing more about this study, please contact Susan Murphy at (404) 321-6111, ext. 205391. www.varrd.emory.edu The mission of the Atlanta VAMC Rehabilitation R&D Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation (CVNR) is to foster the health and well-being of veterans through uniquely synergistic research impacting visual and/or neurocognitive function.

G EN ER AT I O N S M AG AZI N E 21

Additional Library events VETERANS ROUNDTABLE

In partnership with Goodwill Industries of North Georgia Meets the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 1:00 pm Buford Branch, 2100 Buford Highway, Buford 30518

MEET RTD. Special Forces Lt. Colonel Best Selling author Brad Taylor Manuela Mendels Bornstein, Picture from author programs

Happenings at the Library

G

winnett County Public Library offers programs and events for many varied interests. The Book-A-Librarian service allows you to schedule one-on-one time with a librarian at your local branch to find ways to use free library resources such as Ancestry.com or Mango Languages.

This winter the library is hosting many free workshops, authors, or speaker events.

November 8 at 7pm the Georgia WWI Centennial Commission, Gwinnett County Public Library, the Gwinnett Historical Society, and OneStop present an exploration of the impact WWI had on Gwinnett County. Eminent historian Gene Ramsey will discuss the impact WWI had on our county. We will learn about the 2,087 men who registered to serve and about the thirty-four Gwinnett servicemen who gave their life. Before the talk, visit the portrait display of the Gwinnett sons who made the ultimate sacrifice for our county.

On November 18th at 3 pm in Peachtree Corners city hall ballroom, 310 Technology Pkwy., NW, Peachtree Corners 30092, hear the inspirational story of Manuela Mendels Bornstein, a Holocaust survivor. This program is presented by the library and

the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust. This is the rare opportunity to hear a first person account from a survivor. Manula shares her story beginning in 1942 when Paris police rounded up Jews to be sent to the Auschwitz-Birkenau killing center.

Her family was saved by friends who were active members of the French resistance.

Jim Jordan, Southern historian and author of The Slave-Trader’s Letter-Book will speak about the secret of the illegal African slave trade. A secret stash of letters, which had been missing for more than 125 years, documents an illegal landing of over 400 African slaves on Jekyll Island provided much of the research for this book. Join us at 3:00pm on Sunday, February 17 at Liberty Books, 176 W Crogan St, Lawrenceville, 30046 to hear Jim discuss his research and writing.

On Friday, January 18 at 10:30am in the Collins Hill branch and on Saturday, January 12 at 11 am in the Suwanee branch, we’ll get answers to questions about Social Security. Join a specialist from Social Security Administration for information, and tools to help secure today and tomorrow for you and your family.

Gwinnett County Public Library will celebrate Black History

Month in February with many programs system-wide. Two of those programs will be at the Lawrenceville Branch. Making a Memory Quilt: Tell your Families Story will be on Saturday, February 16 at 2 pm. Memory quilts preserve treasured memories of people, events, accomplishments, and places. Join Master Quilter and renowned quilt designer and instructor, Elizabeth Thomas, for a 90 minute workshop to learn more about this artform. Afrocentric Fabric: The History and Fashion will be on Sunday, February 24 at 3 pm. African fabric is full of bright colors, distinctive designs, and hand-made quality with a rich cultural background and significance. Come learn about the history of fabric and ways it can enhance your wardrobe and home. We’re planning a visit from Jim McDowell, The Black Potter, as he tells us the importance and significance of Face Jugs to African history. Jim has been a studio potter for over 30 years and has created face jugs for nearly 25 years. He tells the importance of these items to slaves and how they became a part of the African American heritage.

For more info on these programs, visit our website at www. gwinnettpl.org or email events@ gwinnettpl.org.

Sunday, January 13 at 3:00 pm Peacthtree Corners branch, Spaulding Drive, Peachtree Corners, GA Brad served over 21 years, retiring as a Special Forces Lieutenant Colonel. He has conducted operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other classified locations. His final assignment was Professor of Military Science at The Citadel in Charleston, SC. His debut novel was an immediate success and launched the Pike Logan series. He has sold more than 1.6 million copies and the series has consistently hit the New York Times bestseller list.

When not writing, he serves as a security consultant on asymmetric threats for various agencies.

JONATHAN F. PUTNAM BOOK TALK AND SIGNING Sunday, March 3 at 6:30 pm Aurora Theatre, Parking at 153 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville, GA, 30046 Jonathan has won many accolades for his four book Lincoln and Speed historical mystery series. He will discuss the third book, Final Resting Place.

"Jonathan Putnam combines an historian’s understanding of character and context with a remarkable narrative drive that kept me fascinated from start to finish."

— Doris Kearns Goodwin, Pulitzer Prize winner

G EN ER AT I O N S M AG AZI N E 23

Picking the Right “Best Friend ” to Adopt

BY JON GALLO STAFF CORRESPONDENT

D

ogs and cats can be perfect companions for senior citizens, but it’s integral owners do their diligence so they pick a pet that’s right for them, said Dr. Destiny Prezzano of the Apalachee River Animal Hospital in Dacula.

“There are a lot of factors senior citizens need to take into consideration before adopting a dog or a cat,” she said. “But there are lots of benefits to adopting a pet.”

For starters, owners must select a pet that fits their overall physical mobility. For those who have limited mobility, a cat may be better choice than a dog, which will likely need to be walked.

Dogs are also often heavier than cats, and if a dog needs to be taken to the veterinary, the owner may need to be able to lift the animal into a car.

“If you have a bad back or have trouble walking, then a bigger dog may not be the best choice because of the physical demands that come with having a bigger animal,” Prezzano said. “Cats are easier to take care of and don’t need to be walked. But there are also smaller

dogs, like toy breeds, who are easier to handle.”

The benefit of having a dog, especially for senior citizens, is immense. Owning a pet provides companionship, unwavering love and loyalty, and most of all, can improve an owner’s health since the owner would exercise by walking their pet.

“But having a pet can improve the owner’s mental health because they know they have to take care of their animal,” Prezzano said. “They know they their pet is depending on them to be fed, walked and taken care of so that provides a sense of purpose for the owner.”

The cost of owning a pet can be as high as $1,000, which includes food, toys, medicine and veterinarian visits.

Prezzano urges senior citizens looking to own a pet to speak to their doctor, in addition to reaching out to rescue organizations that specialize in certain breeds, before adopting.

“There area groups that focus on all the well-known breeds in every metro area and they know a lot about all of their dogs,” she said. “If you

are adopting a dog, chances are they know a lot about that particular animal than you would if you went to the animal shelter.”

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Get Ready for Gwinnett’s Party of a Lifetime

BY BETH SLAUGHTER SEXTON STAFF CORRESPONDENT here’s a big birthday party coming up, but what does one give a county that already has it all? Forget buying a gift. Just come to the celebration and help blow out the 200 candles on the birthday cake.

Gwinnett County’s big day is Dec.15, as residents are invited to come out and celebrate the birth of Georgia’s second largest county. Created by an act of the state legislature on Dec. 15, 1818, the county is named for Button Gwinnett, who in 1776, was elected as one of Georgia’s delegates to the Continental Congress. He joined Lyman Hall and George Walton as three Georgians to sign the Declaration of Independence. Button Gwinnett’s namesake celebrates its birthday 200 years exactly to the date of its founding.

On Dec. 15, everyone is invited to the Hudgens Center for Art and Learning for the Family Cultural Birthday Party. Located at 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth, the Hudgens Center will host families celebrating Gwinnett’s vibrant communities featuring birthday traditions from many different cultures. This event begins at 10 a.m. and concludes at 2 p.m. There will be hands-on activities, cultural performances and food trucks.

Gwinnett County Historic Courthouse shown in undated photo as it was built in 1885. p.m. The night’s celebration commemorates the history and contributions of those who helped shape Gwinnett County, as well as recognizing the community’s present day “change agents” and highlighting Gwinnett’s future.

The year-long torch run, which began in December 2017, will complete its approximately 200-mile stretch around the county at the Bicentennial Celebration. The evening’s events also include performances by cultural groups, honoring of past trailblazers and accomplishments and highlights from 200 years of Gwinnett’s success.

“Gwinnett County will be having the birthday party of a lifetime—literally!” says Pam Ledbetter, who is working with volunteers planning party events. “The Bicentennial Celebration will be a day jam-packed with fun and festivities.”

The Dec. 15 events are open to everyone. The Family Cultural Birthday Party is free to attend; however, the evening Birthday Celebration Gala requires a ticket.

Tickets are $125 per person or $1,250 for a table. Tickets can be purchased at Gwinnett200.com beginning on Oct. 29.

Activities continue into the evening with the Birthday Celebration Gala at The Infinite Energy Center off Sugarloaf Parkway at 6

Numerous sponsors have signed on to the birthday celebration and Ledbetter said sponsorships ranging from $500 to $8,500

26 GENERATION S MAGAZINE

Button Gwinnett. (Courtesy of the Georgia Historical Society) are available through Oct. 19. Anyone interested in becoming a sponsor is asked to contact gwinnett200@accentcreativegroup. com or visit gwinnett200.com.

For almost a year, bicentennial events have taken place throughout the county, including traveling art exhibits, legacy projects, performances and many other activities.

As part of the Bicentennial Celebration, the county’s communication division is recording stories from Gwinnett County residents about “how we came to be...and where we are today.” Whether a person is a member of one of Gwinnett’s founding families or a newer resident of the county, contact the communications division via email at info@gwinnettcounty.com or call 770822-7180 to share memories for this project.

Gwinnett County celebrates 200 years of history in 2018!

We were the 50th county formed in Georgia, are the 50th in landmass, and are now well on our way to becoming Georgia’s most populous county in the not-too-distant future.

Through it all, Gwinnett developed a can-do attitude and tradition of working together to make our community the best place to live, work, play, and raise a family.

Today, that distinct Gwinnett spirit is reflected by over 900,000 residents who call our community home.

We are indeed vibrantly connected!

The family cultural birthday party and gala at the Infinite Energy Center on December 15 are the culmination of a yearlong celebration which will live on through Gwinnett200.com and a new Bicentennial Plaza in downtown Lawrenceville.

We thank our residents for joining us this past year to honor our shared history, recognize and remember the people who make our community great, and highlight the vision for our promising future.

www

.Gwinnett200.com

Gwinnett200@GwinnettCounty.com 75 Langley Drive ¡ Lawrenceville GA 30046 / 770.822.8862