Atlanta Senior Life - December 2022

“We’re honored that both Sterling Estates Communities have been recognized as ‘Best of Cobb’ for Retirement Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care again in 2022. I’m proud to say that it’s the 4th year in a row we’ve won these awards and an awesome tribute to our staff members. We’ve been serving seniors in greater Atlanta for over 25+ years now...we invite you to come and experience what sets us apart.” Marshall Gill, COO & Partner, Sterling Estates Senior Living Communities

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Holiday Events Galore!

From theatre and concerts to shopping and Santa, the festive season is here

and at 9 Mile Station. They can be reserved for all-age and 21+ parties of one to six, based on time and day. For skating and igloo prices, details and reservations, click on poncecityroof.com. Other notable Ponce City holiday features in December include Fireside Roasting and Toasting Pods on the Yard, Holiday Tree Market in the Courtyard and Misfit DIY Wrapping events. Check out poncecitymarket. com/events for dates, times, and more info.

Atlantic Station

Enjoy metro Atlanta’s largest ice rink at Atlantic Station. Skate the Station is open now through Jan. 16. It’s ready for action, weather permitting, on weekdays, 4-10 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; and Sundays, 12-8 p.m. The free Celebration at the Station is a light and snow show that’s happening now through Jan. 3, every hour from 5 to 9 p.m. Go to the Events page at atlanticstation.com to find more.

Atlanta Children’s Shelter

By Kathy Dean

The holiday celebrations are back in full force, and everyone is ready to get out and get together for a good time. Here are some of the area events, shows, concerts, and parties that will get your holiday spirit burning bright.

Family Fun and Shopping Buckhead Village

The Veranda Jewel Box welcomes guests into an immersive jewel box with stained-glass wrappings, satin ribbons, and jewel-toned structures. Fire Pits will be in place next to the Veranda, and s’mores will be served there during the Holiday Shop & Strolls every Saturday, 12-6 p.m. Other Shop & Stroll experiences include ornament and cookie decorating, and holiday performances and appearances from Stylish Santa, the Tinseltone Carolers and ballerinas. Now through Saturday, Dec. 24, the German Christkindl Market is open daily, 12-8 p.m., at the corner of East Paces Ferry and Peachtree Road. It features more than 50 vendors

offering German food — schnitzel and brats — and beverages — mulled wine and cider — as well as German handcrafts, ornaments, and other items. Details and more events are found at buckheadvillagedistrict. com/happenings.

Callanwolde Fine Arts Center

The Winter House at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center will be open Dec. 1-4 and Dec. 8-10. Daily activities include live music and dance, board games, workshops and visits from Santa. The gallery will transform into an Artist Market with paintings, pottery and jewelry available for purchase. Admission is free and ticketed workshops start at $15. Find all the details at callanwolde.org/ winterhouse2022.

Piedmont Church

The 2022 Christmas at Piedmont Church Arts & Craft Show brings unique arts and craft exhibitors to Marietta on Dec. 9, 5-9 p.m., and Dec. 10, 10-5 p.m. Admission, parking and activities are free. There’ll be festival food and local entertainment throughout the weekend. Guests

can ride on the 50-foot Snow Tube, presented by C&S Paving, Friday, 6-9 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The Petting Zoo is open Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. And photos with Santa will be available Friday, 6-9 p.m. and Saturday, 12-3 p.m. For further info, call 770-423-1330 or visit piedmontchurch.tv.

Ponce City Market

The Roof at Ponce City Market has become a winter wonderland. Now through Jan. 8, visitors can purchase tickets to get on the 3,500-squarefoot ice rink and Skate the Sky. Reservations include 50 minutes of skating, skate rentals and unlimited gameplay at Skyline Park.

Private, heated Sky Igloos are located alongside the skating rink

The 2022 Holiday House supports the Atlanta Children’s Shelter in its efforts to help homeless, formerly homeless and low-income parents provide holiday cheer for their families. It’ll be open Dec. 12-16 in the auditorium North Avenue Presbyterian Church in Atlanta. Volunteers, organizations and donations are encouraged to help out. Get info at acsatl.org.

Colony Square

The Grove Terrace has transformed into the North Pole at Colony Square, a winter wonderland set inside a festive igloo. The holiday speakeasy, for guests 21+ only, is open Wednesdays to Saturdays, 5-11 p.m., now through Dec. 23. A free twoday celebration that benefits Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is Dec. 2, 5-7 p.m. with live music, Santa and the Lighting of the Christmas Tree. On Dec. 3, the Children’s Holly Jolly Celebration will be held 10 a.m.-12 p.m. between 14th and 15th streets

Buckhead Village

Ponce City Market

with performances and roaming characters. Festivities on the Square will continue the fun in the Front Loop and the Plaza from 12-3 p.m. Also on Dec. 3, the Smiles for the Season Breakfast is planned 8-10 a.m. at 5Church Midtown. The breakfast buffet will be attended by favorite characters and there’ll be a special visit from Santa. Get

the Whitefield Academy Jazz band, and the Campbell Middle School Chorus. Get more info at facebook. com/ViningsJubilee.

Menorah Lightings

Chabad Intown

The synagogue has scheduled free events featuring Menorah Lightings at North Highland Park in Virginia Highland on Dec. 18 at 4 p.m. and Atlantic Station on Dec. 20 at 6 p.m. If you miss those, don’t worry. There’s another at Decatur Square on Dec. 22 at 6 p.m. Find more events at chabadintown.org.

Ponce City Market

and get tickets, as most dates sell out quickly. On select Saturdays and Sundays in December and January, the Holiday Ride-on Train makes a trip around the Great Lawn. Tickets are $3 for member and $5 for non-members. A delightful display of Holiday Model Trains is on the Alston Overlook now through Jan. 14. Holiday songs will fill the air with Carols in the Garden when the Tinseltones visit on Dec. 3, 10 and 17, 10:45 and 11:45 a.m. Keep up with all the events at atlantabg.org.

The Wren’s Nest

Jingle Jog, followed by a Holiday Parade. The fun continues with an in-town holiday market and live music. Find all you need to know at virginiahighlanddistrict.com/ winterfest.

More Santa Sightings

Rhodes Hall

additional info on all these events at colonysquare.com.

City of Sandy Springs

On Dec. 4, Sparkle Sandy Springs kicks off the holiday in Sandy Springs, starting 4 p.m. at City Springs, with a traditional menorah and tree lighting, food trucks, a festive concert featuring the Rupert’s Orchestra, the Sparkle Holiday Gift Market and a parade that starts at 6 p.m. The month-long display of six-foottall decorated and lit houses, Sparkle Village, will also begin Dec. 4 on the City Green. A Snow Day Matinee celebrates the start of winter on Dec. 7 at 5:30 p.m. The afternoon pajama party and movie matinee for children features “Frozen 2” and includes a chance to meet the characters, enjoy hot chocolate and take home a goody bag. While the event is free, registration is required for all family members who wish to participate. Get details and register and purchase tickets at sandyspringsga. gov/events.

Vinings Jubilee

The annual Christmas Tree Lighting, with featured guest Santa Claus, will be held Thursday, Dec. 1, 6-8 p.m. at Tower Place, transforming it into a holiday wonderland for the entire family. The evening includes Christmas carols performed by singing elves,

Chabad Intown joins with Ponce City Market to present a traditional Menorah Lighting ceremony to celebrate the Festival of Lights. It will take place on Dec. 21 at 6 p.m. at The Yard, and there will be music, live

The historic home of author Joel Chandler Harris in Atlanta’s West End will host special Home for the Holidays tours on Dec. 3 and Dec. 17, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Wren’s Nest’s iconic front porch and interior rooms will be festooned with periodinspired decorations for perfect photo opportunities. Tickets run $14 to $18 and can be purchased through wrensnest.org.

Fernbank

entertainment and refreshments. Get details at poncecitymarket.com.

Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta

Everyone in the community is invited to celebrate Hanukkah at Light Up the JCC on Dec. 20, 5-5:30 p.m., in the courtyard at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta in Dunwoody. There’ll be a menorah lighting, Hanukkah songs, performances and free hot chocolate and doughnuts. Go to atlantajcc.org for more info and events.

Lights and Decorations

Atlanta Botanical Garden

The much-loved Garden Lights, Holiday Nights brings back favorite features and adds a few new twists to the light show at Atlanta Botanical Garden, now through Jan. 14. Don’t wait to visit the website

Winter Wonderland: Celebrations & Traditions Around the World is back at Fernbank for its 13th year as a special exhibit, now through Jan. 6. It spans two floors of the museum and showcases different decorated trees and displays that recognize various celebrations, events and cultural traditions from around the world. “Winter Wonderland” is included with general admission at Fernbank and with CityPASS. Learn more at FernbankMuseum.org.

World of Illumination

This year, World of Illumination brings Reindeer Road, a largerthan-life holiday light event, to the parking area of Six Flags White Water. The spectacular drivethrough light forest is complete with reindeer, snowmen and toys. The light show runs now through Jan. 1, nightly from 6 to 10 p.m. Pricing starts at $39.99 per vehicle. For details and tickets, visit worldofillumination.com.

Virginia Highland

A neighborhood Tour of Lights kicks off the Virginia Highland Winterfest on Dec. 9. The next day, Dec. 10, starts with a race, the

The 25th Annual Santa at Rhodes Hall will be held on the weekends, now through Dec. 11 at Rhodes Hall. This annual fundraiser for the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation offers personal appointments and photos with Santa at Atlanta’s “Castle on Peachtree.” The $50 family admission includes a 5x7 photo. Guests may bring their own camera or video recorder for an additional $20. For available times and to reserve an appointment, visit GeorgiaTrust.org or call 404-8857812. Reservations are required; spaces are limited and usually sell out.

Ponce City Market

The Yard at Ponce City Market is the place to go on Saturdays, Dec. 3 to 17. Santa will be there ready to pose with guests during Selfie Saturdays with Santa, 12-4 p.m. Guests are invited to bring their own cameras to snap photos and participate in yard games. If the weather is frightful, Santa will be on the second floor of Central Food Hall. Find out more at poncecitymarket.com.

ZooAtlanta

Santa’s annual stop at ZooAtlanta gives families the opportunity to enjoy Cookies with Santa on Dec. 3 and Dec. 4. Tickets, $25 for zoo member and $30 for non-members, include a personal visit, professional photo and take-home To Go Kit with hot cocoa fixings, cookies and more. Advance reservations are required and can be made at zooatlanta.org/ event/cookies-with-santa.

The St. Regis Atlanta

Reservations are open for select days now through Dec. 24 for Tea with Santa at The St. Regis Atlanta. The afternoon treat includes sweets and a visit with Santa, Mrs. Claus and a mischievous elf. Polar Express at the Best Address is a Christmas Day brunch with live music, entertainment, delectable food and an open bar. Prepaid reservations are available for parties of 1 to 15. Visit exploretock.com/stregisatl for info and to make reservations for both events.

Bellyard Hotel

The holidays are celebrated at Bellyard Hotel with a variety of

Sparkle Sandy Springs

Chabad Intown Menorah Lighting

Continued from page 5

special events. On Dec. 1, local vendors will be on hand at the Sip & Shop Holiday Market, 6-8 p.m. Santa Claus will be at the Drawbar on Dec. 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. for Photos with Santa. The sitting fee is $15, and proceeds benefit Give Kids the World Village. Watch for more holiday plans coming soon at event. marriott.com/atltm-bellyard-hotel/ events.

Traditional and New Shows Georgia Ballet

The Georgia Ballet presents The Nutcracker at the Jennie T. Anderson Theatre in Marietta, Dec. 1-4. This beloved Victorian-era holiday ballet features Clara, the Nutcracker Prince and the Sugar Plum Fairy. Tickets start at $25. Go to georgiaballet.org/season for tickets and additional info.

OnStage Atlanta

Three holiday shows are on the schedule at OnStage Atlanta this month — and two of them are versions of A Christmas Carol. One retelling of the classic Dickens tale is by Patrick Barlow, writer of the hit “The 39 Steps,” and runs Dec. 2-18 on the Webber Stage.

The other Christmas Carol, set for Dec. 7-17, is a Special Event adapted by and starring Stuart W. Schleuse. A Queer Carol, Dec. 8-21, is also OnStage Special Event. Tickets are $20-26 for all three shows and are available through onstageatlanta.com.

Alliance Theatre

A Christmas Carol will be staged by the Alliance Theatre for the 34th time. It’s also the second year the Alliance production features its reimagined staging and set design as well as new costumes, live music and puppetry. The play runs through Dec. 24 on the theatre’s Coca-Cola Stage. Tickets, show times, cast list and more is available at alliancetheatre.org/christmas.

Fox Theatre

Two Nutcracker shows will grace the stage at Fox Theatre this December. Hip Hop Nutcracker, Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m., is a contemporary dance spectacle set to Tchaikovsky’s music. Tickets start at $49. The more traditional Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet features puppets, acrobatics and stars of the Ukraine ballet. There’ll be two showings on Dec. 23, 3 and 7 p.m.; tickets start at $34. Visit foxtheatre.org for tickets and details.

Dad’s Garage

The cast at Dad’s Garage has rehearsed the traditional Scrooge

play, but Invasion: Christmas Carol brings a surprise guest to disrupt everything. Past invaders include Young Frankenstein and The Harlem Globetrotters. The show runs Dec. 2-30. Go to dadsgarage. com/ixc for info and tickets.

Out Front Theatre

From Dec. 8-18, Out Front Theatre presents Christmas Dearest, a play that centers on Joan, a tyrannical actress desperate to revive her career in a musical adaptation of the Virgin Mary’s life. Joan needs a miracle, and she’s visited by three ghosts that show her the error of her ways. Tickets are $30 and are available through outfronttheatre.com.

Variety Playhouse

There are three holiday shows at Variety Playhouse this season. A Very Countess Christmas, features actress, singer and author Countess Luann on Dec. 10, 8:30 p.m. The 11th Holiday Hootenanny, a benefit for Habitat for Humanity, is a barnstorming concert set for Dec. 18, 7 p.m. This year’s show features young acts in the world of bluegrass and jamgrass. On Dec. 19, the “Pope of Trash” visits Atlanta to present holiday jeers with his A John Waters Christmas. Get additional info and tickets at variety-playhouse.com.

transports its audience to Scrooge’s London counting house for Dicken’s classic A Christmas Carol, presented Dec. 3-23. Food and drink are available 75 minutes before every show. For info on special performances and to get tickets, click on shakespearetavern.com.

Holiday Concerts and Music

Atlanta Collective

Local bands reinterpret the 90s classic holiday album “Merry Christmas” by Mariah Carey. The Atlanta Collective show is set for Dec. 17, starting 9 p.m., at Aisle 5 in Atlanta. Local pop songstress Prisca will curate the lineup of music. Get more info and tickets through atlcollective.org.

Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus

The AGMC Annual Holiday Concert returns to the Cathedral of St. Philip in Atlanta as the Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus takes the audience on a holiday journey through laughter, tears, goosebumps and nostalgia on Dec. 2, 8 p.m., and Dec. 3, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. This year, the Chorus will be accompanied by a chamber orchestra and feature the cathedral organ. For tickets, info and more, click on voicesofnote.org/agmc/.

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Spend Christmas with the ASO for a musical evening filled with holiday carols, hymns and more. It’ll be presented Dec. 15, 16 and 18. On Dec. 17 at 8 p.m., the voices of Celtic Woman: A Christmas Symphony will ring through Symphony Hall with arrangements from the Irish all-female group’s holiday album “The Magic of Christmas.”Check out aso.org for more holiday offerings.

more at cathedralatl.org/worship/ music/concerts.

State Farm Arena

Bobby Brown, XSCAPE, Dru Hill, 112, Silk and Shai will take the stage at State Farm Arena for the Atlanta R&B Music Experience: Holiday Edition on Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. Other holiday concerts at the venue are IHeartRadio Power 96.1’s Jingle Ball 2022, a star-studded musical event on Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m., and the V-103 Winterfest 2022 on Dec. 16, 8 p.m., with Grammy-award winner Maxwell as headliner. Get details and tickets at statefarmarena.com.

New Year’s Celebrations

Ponce City Market

The annual Noon Year’s Eve Celebration on the Roof will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 31 at Ponce City Market. Skyline Park will host an all-ages, family-friendly celebration centered around a countdown to noon. All-access tickets of $25 include admission and gameplay; ages 3 and under are free. Ice-skating can be added day-of for an additional $10 and is based on availability. Go to poncecitymarket. com to pre-order tickets and learn more.

City of Sandy Springs

Center for Puppetry Arts

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, based on the classic holiday TV show, is recreated at the Center for Puppetry Arts now through Dec. 31. Tickets include the show, admission to the Worlds of Puppetry Museum and a Create-a-Puppet workshop. Go to puppet.org to find out more.

Southwest Arts Center

A new musical, Mother of God, will make its debut on Dec. 7, with shows running through Dec. 23 at Southwest Arts Center in South Fulton. The show explores how Mary, an ordinary woman, rose to answer the call of a lifetime. It was previously performed at the Atlanta Musical Theatre Festival. Find out more and get tickets at motherofgodmusical.com.

Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse

The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse

Rialto Center for the Arts A tradition in Atlanta for 25 years, the Annual Gala Holiday Concert will ring out at Rialto Center for the Arts with holiday cheer on Dec. 4 at 3 p.m. The evening brings together talented student and faculty performers from the Georgia State University School of music. Tickets start at $14.45. Go to rialto.gsu.edu to reserve your ticket.

Cathedral of St. Philip

A Holiday Concert will be performed with the Atlanta Symphony Brass members on Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Philip in Atlanta. The selection includes beloved standards from the symphonic orchestra repertoire and traditional holiday carols. Tickets range $10-$150. On Dec. 18 at 4 p.m., A Christmas Festival of Lessons and Carols will be presented. Modeled on the King’s College, Cambridge Christmas eve carol service, the choral service is the church’s most popular. Admission is free. Find out

Ring in 2023 at the New Year’s Eve Swingin’ Party at the Byer’s Theatre in Sandy Springs on Dec. 31, starting at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $40 to enjoy the music of Georgia Music Hall of Famer Francine Reed and Sandy Springs native Joe Gransden and his 16-piece band. Keep the good times rolling after the concert at the Swing in the New Afterparty. Reed and Gransden will move to the Studio Theatre for dancing, light bites, desserts and a toast at midnight. Afterparty tickets are $55 and sold separately from the concert. Find out more and purchase tickets through sandyspringsga.gov/ events.

Georgia Aquarium

On Dec. 31, Georgia Aquarium will host an adults-only New Year’s Celebration, starting at 8:30 p.m. Attendees enjoy after-hours access to the main galleries, cocktails and food, live entertainment and a midnight champagne toast. General admission tickets are $125; VIP tickets are $195. All proceeds benefit the aquarium’s research and conservation efforts.

Peach Drop

The annual Peach Drop was slated to return to Underground Atlanta in Downtown to ring in 2023, but no details on entertainment were available at press time. Visit undergroundatl.com for updates.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Get slimed at Buckhead’s Sloomoo Institute

By Collin Kelley

If you’re looking for something fun to do with the grandkids – or if you’re just a big kid – then the newly opened Sloomoo Institute might be just the slimy ticket.

Located in Buckhead, the new multi-sensory playground allows visitors to indulge in a world of slime.

In this all ages play station, visitors can engage with dozens of vats of slime, play with a slime wall, walk on a 350-gallon “lake” of slime and even stand under Sloomoo Falls

– a waterfall of slime.

A do-it-yourself bar allows visitors to make their own slime, selecting from 40 colors, 150 charms, and 60 scents.

The Institute will also offer soundscapes, scent exploration and Augmented Reality experiences.

Sloomoo is located at 3637 Peachtree Rd. NE, Suite D on the lower level adjacent to Nova Sushi. The venue will be open Thursday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

For more information, visit sloomooinstitute.com.

There are Christmas tunes for all tastes

FROM THE CRATES

Kelly McCoy is a veteran At lanta broadcaster who writes about the days popular music only came on vinyl records, which often were stored in crates.

While at B98.5 we called ourselves the “official Christmas music station.” And in retrospect, we really were and provided a great holiday product in our prime. Our ratings exploded during the period.

Along with the traditions of the holidays came those entertaining, silly, and nails-on-a-chalkboard novelty songs from Alvin and the Chipmunks, the dreaded “Grandma got Run over by a Reindeer” and “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas for Christmas.” No words. It could be worse than a fruitcake and eggnog together.

The Porky Pig “Blue Christmas” song was widely requested, but we would get a few calls and complaints accusing us of making fun of people with speech impediments. We always went by the rule that what you don’t play can’t hurt you. By that, I mean losing listeners. We stopped playing it.

I’m not trying to be too “bah humbugish,” and I guess these novelties belong in our musical history.

emotions, and senses even more than other genres. Every one of us can thank radio for exposing these tunes to us and contributing to our life soundtracks. Some terrestrial radio stations are still quite active in many formats and are still able to present top-quality programming.

Like everything, changes happen. With so many sources and platforms to find our favorite songs and create a playlist, we’re in fa la la la la heaven. And Hippopotamus free!

Whatever you celebrate I hope it’s the happiest, and healthiest ever.

Immersive Monet, ‘Star Wars’ experiences open in Doraville

Regardless of your age, if you celebrate Christmas, you more than likely have some favorite Christmas songs. From orchestras and rockers to hip-hop artists and country pickers and singers, there’s a tune for every taste.

I played the classics and newer stuff – which are also now classics! –in my career. With my broad taste in music, I do have an eclectic side that needs to be catered to on occasion. These tunes definitely add to my holiday.

I’m smiling as I write this, but I do think anyone who plays Christmas music before Thanksgiving should be publicly flogged with artificial garland while listening to that “Barking Dogs

Jingle Bells” masterpiece for about an hour.

We all know those Christmas elves who can’t get enough. I worked with a guy who whistled Christmas songs year-round. Finally, a coworker said to him after hearing the whistling of “Deck the Halls,” one too many times: “Dude, it’s June!” I gave him a high five.

Holiday music touches the

By Collin Kelley

The new Exhibition Hub Art Center in Doraville is kicking off with a double dose: “Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience” and “The Fans Strike Back: The Star Wars Fan Exhibition.”

The Claude Monet immersive is a digital art event that uses video mapping technology and 360-degree digital projection to bring more than 300 of the master’s paintings and sketches to life.

Cast over a 20,000-square-foot, two-story space, attendees can literally step into the classic artwork.

The event is wheelchair accessible and open to all ages. Attendees should expect the visit to take approximately an hour.

Time slots are available every half

hour. For more information, visit monetexpo.com/atlanta.

For something completely different, the “Star Wars” exhibition features memorabilia assembled by fans and collectors from around the world.

“The Fans Strike Back” showcases more than 600 unique collectible items including life-size figures, models, one-of-a-kind sculptures, figurines, photos, posters, and costumes from all eras of the space opera.

Get tickets and more details at thefansstrikebackexhibition.com/ atlanta.

The 50,000-square-foot Exhibition Hub Arts Center is located at 5660 Buford Highway.

From spy agency to environmentalist

AROUND TOWN

Joe Earle is Edi tor-at-Large for Springs Publish ing. He has more than 45 years of experience with newspa pers, including the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and was Managing Editor of Reporter Newspapers.

As Lewis Regenstein tells it, his unusual career started with a small sign posted on the Emory University campus in 1965 or ‘66.

At the time, Regenstein was studying business as a graduate student at Emory. He was thinking of changing his direction in life and wanted a job while he sorted things out. The sign said a recruiter from the Central Intelligence Agency was going to be on campus to interview students for the spy agency. “I said, ‘Well, that’s interesting.’ So, I signed up,” Regenstein recalled recently over a cup of chai tea at a Decatur coffee shop.

He recalled the job application ran for pages. He had to provide the names of five references who weren’t related to him, then five more. Representatives of the agency talked to his neighbors about him. It took months, but eventually, Regenstein got the job and moved to the Washington, D.C. suburbs.

During the Cultural Revolution in China, Regenstein worked on the agency’s China Desk. He studied news photos of Chinese bigwigs to see which ones moved closer to Chairman Mao and which ones had disappeared from the picture. He debriefed American businesspeople who traveled abroad, read foreign news reports, and helped defectors find new homes in the U.S. His job was to gather information from wherever he could find it and then

to read the signs.

Regenstein, who’s 79 now and goes by the nickname “Reg,” said he worked for the agency from 1966 through 1971 and left when his bosses decided it was time for him to rotate to Detroit or some other field office. At the same time, he had discovered a new passion: saving the environment. It was the early 70s, after all, and the seeds of environmental activism were blooming. “I had always loved trees and wildlife and animals,” he said. “Here was a chance to get something done.”

He took a job with the Fund for Animals. He started writing books, ending up with about 10 “real” books on his resume, he said. They had titles such as “America the Poisoned” and “The Politics of Extinction.” He also wrote op-eds for newspapers. It was a heady time to be in the environmental movement.

After a while, he and his family decided to return to metro Atlanta so his kids could grow up here. He continued writing, but started dealing in real estate, as well.

But he hasn’t lost touch with fellow intelligence officers. He’s a charter member of a club called the Association of Former Intelligence Officers that meets periodically to socialize and discuss issues related to gathering secrets for government use.

Earlier this year, Regenstein delivered a talk to AFIO members gathered at a fish house in Sandy Springs. He told them about “Havana Syndrome,” which he says has harmed and perhaps killed some American diplomats, agents, and military officials. He argues the illnesses are related to microwave radiation that has been beamed at American facilities for years, even decades by agents of antagonistic governments. “It started as a way to jam our embassies,” he said, “but it’s turned into a useful weapon.”

How did he learn about the “mysterious” attacks? He gathered information from public reports, many in newspapers. Then he read the signs.

Reg Regenstein

A century of change, inclusivity & worship

Virginia-Highland Church celebrates milestone anniversary

By Donnell Suggs

The exterior walls of VirginiaHighland Church hold messages that immediately separate this place of worship from most of its Atlanta peers. One sign beautifully draped in the colors of the LGBTQ+ rainbow flag, reads “A Just World For All,” while another reads in part, “At This Church, We Believe Black Lives Matter.”

Between those signs, sits a multicolored piano with a popular quote from civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.”

The piano is casually played by neighborhood children and adults throughout the day, said Jeff Ayers, director of worship for the church since 1995. “They drop by and play it all the time.”

In the sanctuary, there is another sign: “Virginia-Highland Church, an Inclusive Community of Faith.”

And that is how Ayers, Pastor Matt Laney, and the church leaders want it “One hundred years means we’ve survived change,” Ayers said with a broad smile. “We have lost a lot of Intown churches in the last decade.”

A Community Parish

Virginia-Highland Church sits just off Virginia Avenue in the heart of the neighborhood with its broad steps welcoming community members of all faiths inside. The church, which was established in 1923 and moved to its current home in 1950, has been affiliated with United Church of Christ since 2002. The church left the Southern Baptist Convention 30 years ago.

“Good morning from VirginiaHighland Church where Black Lives Matter, women’s reproductive rights matter, and children are seen and heard,” Ayers proclaimed at a recent

Sunday service.

“It’s a real blessing and a gift to be at this historic milestone considering how far this church has come,” said Laney, who has been pastor for five years

Despite its location, Laney said its congregation is from all over North Georgia. “A number of congregants come to service from as far as Athens, Lawrenceville, Lilburn, Smyrna and Stockbridge,” he said.

Michael Jackson, a member of the church’s parish council lives in Kennesaw and said he encourages the church to continue connecting not only with people in Georgia but across the country.

That said, being a spiritual home in the heart of Virginia-Highland means a lot to Laney and Ayers. “We hope that we are a part of the center of community life, even more so during these times,” said Laney.

“During the beginning of Covid, the church went totally online via Zoom and Facebook Live,” Ayers said. “It just feels much more worshipful to be in the community and be together.”

The recent Sunday service this reporter attended had a multigenerational, multiracial congregation led by Candace Rowell, who was filling in for Laney. Rowell is on track to be ordained in the United Church of Christ – something that would not be possible under the roof of many southern churches.

All Inclusive

Virginia-Highland Church leans towards inclusion, not only in who can serve the public from the pulpit, but also in what they can talk about. During Rowell’s service, she invited children to come up and help lead breathing exercises. The kids closed their eyes and thought of positive things while breathing in through their noses and out through their mouths. The entire congregation joined them.

Later in the service, as part of the All Saints Day celebration, there was a video montage of people who died

this year – Angela Lansbury, Betty White, Queen Elizabeth II, Sydney Poitier, Leslie Jordan, Dan Reeves and Vince Dooley. The victims of the mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas were also included in the montage, as well as local members of the church and community. As a violinist played over the montage, the congregation wept.

During Communion, a glutenfree option for the bread was offered to guests who preferred it. “So all can feel welcome,” said Ayers.

The future past 100 years

Following Sunday service there was a community meeting to further inform congregants about plans beyond the 100th birthday celebration. A countdown clock sits near the lectern keeping track of the days, hours, and minutes until the church officially turns 100.

There are plans to begin a fundraising campaign in order to raise $1.5 to $2.5 million for interior and exterior renovations on the church and add staff.

“This church is capable of pulling this off,” said church member Janis Edwards, a member of the visionary team. “It’s been a long process and I believe there’s some divine inspiration in it.”

Rev. Faye Codding, a member of the parish council, added that the church will be looking to hire an associate minister, community liaison, and social media manager in the near future as part of the future plans.

“One of the gifts this church has is to be able to employ these people right out of college,” said Ayers. “I remember those jobs [in churches] were very rare if you were gay. That’s the gift we have here.”

Sunday service at Virginia-Highland Church.

Your Next Home Could Be In… College Park

By Collin Kelley

Where is it? If you want to be close to Downtown and the airport, then College Park is ideal. Just eight miles southwest of Atlanta and with a busy MARTA rail station located in the center of town, you could permanently park your car. What’s the history? Originally known as Atlantic City, then Manchester, before settling on College Park in 1896, the town was built around the Atlanta and West Point Railroad depot. The name of the town honored Cox Collge (now the city hall building) and Georgia Military Academy (now the location of Woodward Academy private school). To continue the theme, the east-west avenues in the city are named after Ivy League colleges, while north-south streets are named for some of College Park’s most prominent residents.

What about shopping, dining, and things to do? Historic Main Street has undergone a renaissance over the last few years and is home to shops and restaurants, including Nouveau Bar & Grill, The Real Milk & Honey, Brake Pad, Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen, and The Breakfast Boys. The city has four parks, a municipal golf course and is also home to Gateway Center, an arena that hosts the Atlanta Hawks NBA G League, the College Park SkyHawks. College Park is also known for its strong connection to the hip-hop and rap scene, including being the birthplace of Ludacris, 2 Chainz, Jermaine Dupri, Monica, and many more.

What about homes? One of the most desired areas is the historic district, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features a mix of Queen Anne, late 19th/early 20th century Revivals, and Craftsman bungalows. You can expect to pay over $500,000 to $1 million+ in this area, depending on its need for renovations. There is also new construction ranging in the $400,000 to more than $700,000 range. The city has worked with Hartsfield-Jackson on noise abatement issues, but keep in mind you’re still living adjacent to the world’s busiest airport.

You may be able to help

This study includes screening and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) It consists of one visit lasting 90 minutes

Are you between 50 and 65 years old?

Are you physically healthy?

If yes, you may be eligible to participate and will be compensated for your time!

If you would like more information about this study, Exploring Mechanisms Underlying Dysregulation of Central Nervous System in GWVI-HAP

Research Investigators: Kaundinya Gopinath, PhD

Please contact: Gabi Champion, Research Coordinator (470) 303 5263

Woodward Academy

Brake Pad

Gateway Center

Atlanta’s continuing failure to save its trees

ABOVE THE WATER LINE

Sally Bethea is the retired executive director of Chattahoochee Riverkeeper and an environmen tal and sustain ability advocate.

When we needed it most — during the highly stressful midterm election season — nature gave us a spectacular gift: brightblue skies, cool temperatures, and vibrant color in tree leaves. I can’t remember an October as gorgeous as the one Atlanta just

experienced.

Every tree in my Intown neighborhood seemed to peak at the same time in shades from scarlet and burnt orange to gold and russet. Now, our yards are littered with the shriveled remnants of these beauties — ready for a rake (my choice) or leaf-blower to move them to disposal bags or, preferably, to compost piles to enrich soil and help retain moisture in gardens.

Nature’s Food Factories

Powered by the miracle of photosynthesis — a Greek word meaning “putting together with light” — leaves are food factories for trees. They use sunlight to turn water (absorbed by roots) and carbon dioxide (taken from the air) into oxygen and glucose (a simple sugar); the latter is an

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important energy source in living organisms. Chlorophyll, a green pigment in plant cells, helps drive photosynthesis.

Fall’s shorter, cooler days signal broad-leaved, deciduous trees that they must get ready for winter, when there won’t be enough light or water for photosynthesis; they will have to live off food stored in the summer. As the chlorophyll in leaves breaks down, yellow and orange pigments that are masked by the green coloring in spring and summer become visible.

The brilliance of seasonal tree color depends on weather conditions that occur before and during the time the chlorophyll in the leaves is dwindling. Temperature and moisture are the main influences; the countless combinations of these highly variable factors ensure that no two autumns are alike.

Urban Forest at Risk

As I rake the crumbling leaves in my yard, remembering the beauty of October, I think about Atlanta’s declining urban forest. The number of healthy trees lost to development rose by 100% from 2021 to 2022. How is this intolerable trend possible? City residents repeatedly and overwhelming support tree protection.

The enormous benefits that trees provide — free of charge — are well known: shade and water vapor to counter deadly rising temperatures in cities, removal of air pollutants, reduction of storm runoff and flooding, higher property values, sequestration of carbon to combat climate change, improved mental health, and aesthetic beauty. What a list and all for free! Yet, we (read: our elected officials and bureaucrats) are allowing developers to toss mature, healthy trees to the curb, literally.

As one tree advocate told me: “Anyone with a computer and a bulldozer can download plans from the internet for a few hundred dollars and scrape land bare to erect massive structures. For convenience and speed, they grade entire lots.” Developers pay a pathetically-small fee established decades ago ($100 plus $30 per diameter inch for trees greater than six inches in diameter) and plant a sapling in its place that may or may not survive. Having dealt with our region’s prodevelopment (at any cost) mindset for most of my career as an environmental advocate, none of this really surprises me, but it sure leaves me angry.

Drone shot from Piedmont Park by Luis Gaud (@jerrito1 on IG).

Kicking the Can

When Money magazine recently listed Atlanta as the “best place to live in the U.S.,” it noted, among other assets, the city’s tree-lined streets and its arboreal canopy, described as being, “so dense it’s been nicknamed ‘the city in a forest.’” Pro-growth boosters brag about our tree canopy, while they are often the same people opposing meaningful improvements to the city’s tree protection ordinance.

The Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association is particularly vocal in its opposition to tree protection efforts. Its leaders complain about red tape and citizen appeals, while declaring they will experience economic hardship — that development in the city will stop — if any trees are protected. I’m still laughing. We do not have to choose between trees and homes. We can and must have both.

More than twenty years ago, the Atlanta City Council passed a tree ordinance to protect our city in a forest, that source of civic pride. Since at least 2014, if not before, it’s been clear to anyone paying attention that this ordinance is not working. For the past eight years — under three city administrations — citizens, tree advocates, developers, bureaucrats, and elected officials have met, argued, and drafted proposals to overhaul the tree ordinance, currently little more than a payto-play operation. There has been no progress toward greater protection.

Tree advocates tell me that homebuilder representatives have routinely roadblocked efforts to develop consensus, yet offer no constructive suggestions. Kicking the can down the road is a favorite ploy of those who simply want to continue business as usual and avoid taking responsibility. Atlanta’s tree ordinance “can” is so dented from delay and obfuscation that it’s barely kickable.

The Dickens Administration

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens has been in office less than a year and his plate has been full. He largely inherited this embarrassing failure to conduct what should be routine administrative work: fixing a city ordinance that governs a program essential to Atlanta’s brand and prosperity.

Since Dickens was inaugurated, his staff has secured agreement on a half dozen tweaks to the

ordinance, currently before the city council. This is a good step that should be supported, but it’s only a baby step. To quote Martin Luther King, Jr.: “This is no time to… take the tranquilizing drug of incrementalism.”

Dickens recently appointed Jaynee Prince to head the city’s planning department. With her past connections to the development community, she may know the players in the tree protection landscape, which could be helpful. Prince should reach out to Chandra Farley, the city’s new chief sustainability officer, to engage her department’s expertise in climate solutions for drafting a new tree ordinance.

The biggest question for me, as I continue to rake the falling leaves, is whether Atlanta’s elected leaders will finally take responsibility. Are they willing to pass a strong, enforceable measure to save more of our leafy companions? Or, will they join their recent predecessors as a “nod squad” for developer rule?

Holiday gift suggestions for gardeners

THE ENVIRONMENTAL GARDENER

Greg Levine co-executive director of Trees Atlanta, describes himself as happiest when his hands are in the dirt.

Erica Glasener is the Community Involvement and Events Manager for the Piedmont Park Conservancy. She also serves on the advisory board for Trees Atlanta.

We both find that as we get older it can be challenging to buy gifts for friends and family who don’t really need anything. But for our friends that are gardeners or lovers of plants, we have a range of gift suggestions.

A Living Present

Erica’s Pick: It’s hard to go wrong with a living arrangement in a beautiful decorative pot, whether it's a simple phalaenopsis orchid for indoors (almost foolproof), or a container garden for the patio with winter blooms. Try including violas, snapdragons, and herbs like parsley or rosemary.

Greg’s Pick: A garden’s caregiver knows the niches that need filling

and which plants would be the best to do it. I really enjoy thumbing through a plant catalog (often ordering too many plants), so my first suggestion is a gift certificate from one of the many mail-order plant nurseries. I have always had great luck with Bluestone Perennials. They have a great selection of robust, unusual plants that come in compostable pots, a nice extra for nature lovers.

A Book

Erica’s Picks: It’s hard to pick just one book, but I still refer to my copy of “Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses” by Michael A. Dirr on a regular basis. This comprehensive reference has long been a favorite of keen gardeners and was the textbook for many that studied horticulture in college.

Bluestone Perennials

Books make great gifts!

Greg’s Pick: “The Complete Guide to Gardeners – The Plant Obsessed and How to Deal with Them” by Joseph Tychonievich is a light and humorous read with stick figure illustrations by the author. A fellow gardening friend got me this book years ago and it is 100 pages of laughter that I have read several times. It makes fun of the healthiest addiction in the world, gardening.

Pruners

Erica’s Picks: My favorite tool is my pair of Felco #2 hand pruners.

I don’t have any affiliation with the company, but I would be happy to be spokesperson for these bypass pruners which are sharp and worth the price (probably around $50 these days).

Greg’s Pick: Erica and I don’t always agree, and this is one of those times. I discovered Osaka pruners when I was lucky enough to go to the Chelsea Flower Show, where I got to handle about a half dozen of the best pruners on the market. This was my favorite; the design is remarkable. The lock is easy to open and shut, and the pruners cut as if you were going through cream, not wood. They cost a bit more than your average pruner, about $65, but I promise it is worth it.

Our Last Picks

Erica’s Pick: For the particular gardener, consider a gift certificate to your local garden center or a

garden consultation with a garden design company.

Greg’s Picks: A membership to The Atlanta History Center Garden or the Atlanta Botanical Gardens will help get your gardener out of their garden. This helps support public gardens and their missions to make a greener world.

From Both: A gift for the gardener with no more room or yard to

plant in is Trees Atlanta’s Holiday Tree Greeting. A $25 donation to Trees Atlanta supports tree planting, and a locally designed card is sent to your friend or loved one. All of these nonprofits have a myriad of unique and important educational opportunities that your membership or donation helps to support.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution is committed to facilitating conversations on the topics important to aging well in Atlanta and providing you resources to live your best senior life.

Visit us at ajc.com/aging to sign up for the newsletter and get updates.

You’ll find plenty of 55+ focused content there as well as links to our previously published sections and events.

Look for our upcoming special section on Dec. 4 in your Atlanta Journal-Constitution print and ePaper editions.

PRESENTED BY:

Gardeners love their pruners.

Trees Atlanta’s Holiday Tree Greeting

Atlanta Expo Centers - Atlanta, GA

Show Hours: Thurs. 10:45am-6pm

Fri. & Sat. 9am-6pm Sun. 10am-4pm

Directions: 3 miles East of Atlanta Airport, I-285 at Exit 55 (3650 & 3850 Jonesboro Rd SE)

Christmas Day Dining

Get your reservations now for holiday meals around metro Atlanta

By Collin Kelley

If spending Christmas in the kitchen isn’t your idea of a good time, then make a reservation at one of Intown’s restaurants offering holiday dinner. Be sure to visit OpenTable.com to find even more dining options and make your reservation early to get your preferred time and table.

STK

The Midtown steakhouse will be offering Christmas specials and an a-la-carte menu for dine-in and takeout. Reservations at stksteakhouse.com.

Nan Thai Fine Dining

Let Chef Nan Niyomkul do the cooking this Christmas Day with a full menu of Thai dishes. Find out more at nanfinedining.com.

Hard Rock Café

For something a little more musical and casual, Hard Rock Cafe in Downtown is also serving a Christmas feast. Visit hardrockcafe.com/atlanta.

Tuk Tuk Thai Food Loft

Chef DeeDee Niyomkul will be preparing a Thai feast if you’re ready to ditch the usual ham and turkey. More details at tuktukatl.com.

Fogo de Chao

If you want to fill your belly with meat, then the Buckhead and Dunwoody restaurants will fit the bill. Make a reservation at fogodechao.com.

Chai Yo Modern Thai

The standard menu will be available, along with several specials for the occasion at this Buckhead favorite. Make a reservation at chaiyoatl.com.

Nakato

The Cheshire Bridge Road is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, so a double-dose of festivities as you dine on hibachi on Christmas. Reservations at nakatorestaurant.com.

Botica

Enjoy the flavors of Spain, Mexico, and the Mediterranean for the holidays. Find out more at eatbotica.com.

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

The steakhouse has restaurants in Downtown at Centennial Park and in Buckhead, both open for Christmas

Day dining. Make a reservation at ruthschris.com.

The Americano

Put a steak on your holiday wish list at this modern Italian eatery in Buckhead. Reservations are available at theamericanorestaurant/atlanta.

Truva

Head to Virginia-Highland for Mediterranean flavors at the Turkish restaurant. Find out more at truvahighland.com.

Bar Margot

Whether you’re a guest or not at the Four Seasons Hotel in Midtown, you can enjoy a swanky Christmas meal or cocktails here. See the menu and make a reservation at barmargotatl.com.

Brassica

Head to the Waldorf Astoria in Buckhead for a menu of FrenchSouthern-inspired food. Reservations at brassicaatlanta.com.

Morton’s

Have a steak at this upscale restaurant at Peachtree Center before a stroll to look at the Downtown lights. Reservations at mortons.com.

Del Frisco’s

Steak and seafood are on the menu at this Perimeter Center restaurant in Dunwoody. Get a reservation at delfriscos.com.

Taki

Put sushi on your Christmas menu at this Dunwoody Japanese restaurant. Make a reservation at takijapaneseatl.com.

Tupelo Honey

Have Southern food and craft cocktails in Sandy Springs for Christmas. Get details at tupelohoneycafe.com.

Quick Bites

Brown Bag Seafood Company is now open at Ashford Lane mixedused development in Dunwoody’s Perimeter Center. Info @ brownbagseafood on Instagram (IG).

Westside Motor Lounge is open at Echo Street West in the English Avenue neighborhood serving up serving a menu of Southern dishes, snacks, and cocktails. Info: westsidemotorlounge.com

Azucar Cuban Cafe opened next door to Three Dollar Cafe on Roswell Road in Sandy Springs. Info: @azucar_cuban_cafe on IG.

UK-based brewpub BrewDog is now open at Krog Street Market with 28 taps, beers brewed onsite, and a full kitchen serving pub grub. Info: brewdog.com/usa/atlanta.

Dolo’s Pizza, which combines New York pizzas and Caribbean flavors, has opened its brick-and-mortar restaurant along Lower Alabama Street at Underground Atlanta. Info: @dolospizza.co on IG.

Atlanta coffee lovers can now experience the full taste of Italy with illy Caffé, the European-style café and coffee bar set to open at Atlantic Station at 264 19th Street.

Urban Hai is now open in the former BugerFi space on 12th Street with a full bar and a menu featuring Peking duck, dim sum, and mapo tofu. Info: urbanhai.com.

Dorian Gray is now open in Buckhead serving continental cuisine and craft cocktails accompanied by a soundtrack of Deep House music. Info: @doriangrayatlanta on IG.

Cocktail bar Mambo Zombi is now open above Georgia Beer Garden on Edgewood Avenue. Info: @mambozombi on IG.

Dorian Gray is Subscribe at Side Dish newsletter from Rough Draft. SideDishAtlanta.com the new weekly dining

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TRAVEL

Georgia's Barrier Islands: Rich in history, beauty & serenity

TRAVELS WITH CHARLIE

Veteran Georgia journalist Charles Seabrook has covered native wildlife and environmental issues for decades.

For “Travels with Charlie,” he visits and photographs communities and places throughout the state.

Renowned for their unique natural beauty, fourteen barrier islands fringe Georgia’s 100-milelong coast – from Tybee Island near Savannah to Cumberland Island at the Florida state line. Four of them can be reached via causeways and bridges; the rest can be reached only by boat.

Geologists call them barrier islands because they sit like stoic sentinels between the open ocean and the mainland. Poets and artists celebrate them as places of serenity and breathtaking scenery. Historians are drawn to them because Timucuan Indians, Spanish soldiers, Jesuit monks, Scottish Highlanders, enslaved Africans and the leisurely rich once inhabited them.

Today, the islands’ splendor, rich history, sandy beaches, upscale hotels, world-class golf courses, fishing piers and other amenities attract some 2.5 million visitors per year. A handful of the islands – Jekyll, St. Simons, Little St. Simons, Sea Island – make up Georgia’s famed Golden Isles, a name supposedly inspired by the islands’ astonishing beauty, mild weather and natural radiance.

I visit the islands three or four times a year, but mostly for nature watching, bird watching, hiking and other outdoor activities. The islands are havens for wildlife: The broad estuaries and vast salt marshes surrounding the islands are some of the most fertile and

productive ecosystems on Earth. In spring, the marshes, estuaries and the islands’ magnificent maritime forests abound with a variety of migrating songbirds and shorebirds. In late spring and through summer, as many as 3,000 endangered sea turtles crawl onto barrier island beaches to lay their eggs. In winter, highly endangered northern right whales arrive in the ocean waters just offshore from

the islands to give birth to their calves – the only known calving grounds for the whales.

In a large sense, Georgia’s barrier islands are fortunate. After the Civil War, wealthy entrepreneurs started buying up the islands and making them into private retreats and preserves. Most of Cumberland Island, for instance, was bought by Thomas Carnegie (brother of Andrew

Carnegie) and his wife Lucy. In the latter part of the 20th Century, the entrepreneurs’ heirs sold most of the islands to state and federal agencies, while a couple of the islands remained in the hands of private owners who pledged to protect them. So, unlike most of the other islands on the Atlantic coast, Georgia’s islands remain largely undeveloped.

The upshot is that all but three

Tybee

Little St. Simon’s Island.

Jekyll Island

Cumberland Island

St. Simons

St. Catherines Island

of Georgia’s barrier islands – Tybee, St. Simons, and Sea Island –are preserved through public and private initiatives.

Jekyll Island is a state park; Cumberland is a national seashore.

Wassaw, Blackbeard and Wolf islands are national wildlife refuges; Ossabaw and Sapelo islands are state-owned preserves. Traveling by car to the four islands connected to the mainland by bridges and causeways — Tybee,