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Serving AUGUSTA & the CSRA

Information For Ages 50 PLUS!Enjoy Crossword &Sudoku Puzzles atwww.seniornewsga.com

March 2015Vol. 29, No. 3

Listen to the sounds of theListen to the sounds of theHarmony River Chorus!Harmony River Chorus!Story on Page 5Story on Page 5

Page 2 • March 2015 • Senior News • Augusta

by KELVIN COLLINSPresident/CEO, BBB of CentralGeorgia & the CSRA, Inc.

If you have been within earshotof a television or radio in the last fewyears, then you have no doubt heardabout Reverse Mortgages. While theterm seems to be self-explanatory,most consumers have no idea howthey work and being uneducated isdangerous territory when it comes tomaking a major financial decision.

A reverse mortgage allows home-owners to convert part of the equityin a home to cash without having tosell the property. In other words, it isa loan against your home that you donot have to pay back for as long asyou live in your home. Due to theattractiveness of these loans, somesenior citizens are being chargedexcessive up-front fees for servicesthat are generally available free ofcharge or at a very low cost throughthe Department of Housing andUrban Development (HUD).

The Better Business Bureau(BBB) advices consumers to use cau-tion if approached with the opportuni-ty to obtain a reverse mortgage; tak-ing the time to understand therequirements, consider all the factorsinvolved, and learn what freeresources are available to help themmake an informed decision. And

don’t be swayed by celebrity spokespersons until you have all of yourquestions answered.

The BBB provides the followingtips when considering a reverse mort-gage:

Know the basic requirements.To apply for a reverse mortgage, allowners of the home must be at least62 years of age, have equity in thehome and sign the loan paperwork.The home must be the primary resi-dence and remain in good condition.Reverse mortgage borrowers continueto own their homes. So you are stillresponsible for property taxes, insur-ance, and repairs. If you fail to carryout those responsibilities, your loancould become due and payable in full.The loan process can’t be initiateduntil the senior receives counselingfrom a Home Equity ConversionMortgages (HECM) counselor.

Consult an HECM counselor.An HECM counselor will helpanswer questions regarding eligibility,financial implications and other alter-natives. The Fair Housing Association(FHA) does not recommend usingany service charging a fee for refer-ring a borrower to an FHA lender asFHA provides all the information freeof charge and HECM housing coun-selors are available free or at a verylow cost. For a list of approved coun-seling agencies, call 800-569-4287 orvisit the HUD website at

www.hud.gov.

Involve heirs in the decision-making. Because a reverse mortgageaffects the assets of the borrower incase of death, involving heirs willavoid future misunderstandings andfamily discord.

Make sure a reverse mortgagesuits your needs. The amount youcan get from a reverse mortgage gen-erally depends on your age, yourhome’s value and location, the cost ofthe loan, and who is making the loan.Determine whether it is practical toremain in the home for 5-10 years tomake the reverse mortgage economi-cal. Also take into considerationfuture health care needs as well assafety and ease of use of the home.

Consider all the costs associatedwith obtaining a reverse mortgage.Be prepared to pay for some of thefees involved in the processing of areverse mortgage loan, which caninclude an origination fee, closingcosts, a mortgage insurance premium,a servicing fee, and the interest rate.

Understand the repaymentterms. A reverse mortgage loan mustbe repaid in full when the owner diesor sells the home. Other conditionsthat affect loan repayment includefailure to pay property taxes or hazardinsurance, allowing the property to

deteriorate, and if the borrower per-manently moves, has a new primaryresidence, or fails to live in the homefor 12 consecutive months.

Because you make no monthlypayments, the amount you owe growslarger over time. As your debt growslarger, the amount of cash you wouldhave left after selling and paying offthe loan (your equity) generallygrows smaller. But you never owemore than your home’s value at thetime the loan is repaid.

As with any program, reversemortgages can be ideal for some con-sumers but the BBB urges you toensure that you have all of your ques-tions answered before committing.

For more tips you can trust, visitwww.bbb.org.

*********

Kelvin Collins is president/CEOof the Better Business Bureau ofCentral Georgia & the CSRA, Inc.serving 41 counties in CentralGeorgia and the Central SavannahRiver Area (CSRA). This tips columnis provided through the local BBBand the Council of Better BusinessBureaus. Questions or complaintsabout a specific company or charityshould be referred directly to the BBBat Phone: 1-800-763-4222, Web site:www.bbb.org; E-mail: info@central-georgia.bbb.org; or, info@csra.bbb.org.

Reverse Mortgages... Are they for you?

T O U C H I N G

L I V E S

Services & Programs• Short-Term Rehabilitation• Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapy Services• Cardiac Recovery Program• Orthopedic Program• Post-Stroke Care / Neurological Program• Dysphagia Program• Specialized Wound Care• Specialized Alzheimer’s / Dementia Care• Palliative / Respite CareCome tour our newly renovated Short-Term Rehabilitation Wing!

Thomson Health and Rehabilitation511 Mount Pleasant Road • Thomson, GA 30824

706-595-5574www.thomsonhealthrehab.com

by KELVIN COLLINSPresident/CEO, BBB of CentralGeorgia & the CSRA, Inc.

Believe it or not, spring willbe here before long. This is a timewhen many peoples’ fancies turn tohome improvement! Whether youare planning a small repair project,like repaving your driveway, or amore extensive project, like addinga family room to your home, it paysto look beyond the lowest bid whenselecting a contractor. And, youshould definitely refrain from con-sidering a contractor’s advertise-ments to be an assurance of thequality of work you can expect. Thelargest ad does not always equate tothe best contractor.

Home remodeling complaintscontinue to rank high on the BBB’slisting of top complaints. Rightfrom the start, you can eliminatewhat are likely to be less-than-rep-utable contractors by considering alist of traits common to rip-offartists. While there may be excep-tions, the Better Business Bureauhas found the following to be indi-cations that a contractor may not beinterested in satisfying customers:

• Solicits door-to-door: Be sus-picious of contractors who attemptto gain business by visiting door-to-

door. Good contractors usually donot need to drum up business bymaking “cold calls.” However, ifyou are contacted, be sure to checkthem out with the BBB and obtainadditional quotes to compare.Additionally, never allow anyone todistract you allowing another personto sneak into your home to stealyour belongings.

• Has materials left over from aprevious job: It is not your luckyday when a contractor shows up onyour doorstep offering a cut-rateprice on a project because they havematerials left over from a recent jobat your neighbor’s house or thehouse “down the street.” This is acommon ploy of fly-by-night opera-tors or handymen who are basedout-of-state and use their pick-uptrucks as their place of business.

• Asks you to get the requiredbuilding permits: This could be asign that the contractor is hoping toavoid contact with the local agencythat issues such permits. Perhaps heis not licensed or registered, asrequired by your state or locality.He also knows that the person sign-ing for the permit is the personresponsible for ensuring that allwork meets local codes. A compe-tent contractor will get all the neces-sary permits before starting work onyour project.

• Pressures you for an immedi-ate decision: A reputable profession-al will recognize that you need timeto consider many factors whendeciding which contractor to hire.You will want to check references;look into the contractor’s standardof work and his professional desig-nations and affiliations; verify hisinsurance; check to see if he needs alicense (and if so, that it is valid);get written estimates from severalfirms based on identical projectspecifications, and, contact theBetter Business Bureau for a copyof their Business Review.

• Asks you to pay for the entirejob up-front or demands only cash:Whatever the reason, never pay forthe entire project upfront. Paymentsshould be by credit card or check sothat your credit card statement orcancelled check can provide proofof payment, if needed. Do not payanything until after the first day ofwork, and then only pay up to one-third. Make additional paymentsduring the project contingent uponcompletion of a defined amount ofwork. Do not make the final pay-ment or sign an affidavit of finalrelease until you are satisfied withthe work and have proof that thesubcontractors and suppliers havebeen paid. Don’t be afraid torequest a written statement confirm-

ing that all subcontractors and sup-pliers have been paid.

• Suggests you borrow from aparticular lender: Don’t succumb tohigh pressure to finance throughyour contractor or someone he sug-gests. Many people have beenripped off when they agreed to usethe suggested lender; sign a lot ofpapers in a rush; and find out laterthat they had agreed to a home equi-ty loan with a very high rate, pointsand fees. Secure financing on yourown by shopping around and com-paring loan terms.

The BBB has Business Reviewson more than 100,000 general con-tractors across North America,available for free at bbb.org.

*********Kelvin Collins is president/CEO

of the Better Business Bureau ofCentral Georgia & the CSRA, Inc.serving 41 counties in CentralGeorgia and the Central SavannahRiver Area (CSRA). This tips col-umn is provided through the localBBB and the Council of BetterBusiness Bureaus. Questions orcomplaints about a specific compa-ny or charity should be referreddirectly to the BBB at Phone: 1-800-763-4222, Web site: www.bbb.org; E-mail: info@centralgeorgia.bbb.org; or, info@csra.bbb.org.

Home Contractors: Tip-offs to potential rip-offs March 2015 • Senior News • Augusta • Page 3

Apartment Features

• Washer/Dryer Connections• Heated/Cooled Sunrooms• Fully Equipped Kitchens• Oversized Bathrooms• Large Walk-in Closets• Water and Sanitation Included• Garbage Disposal• Mini Blinds• Single Story, No Stairs• Handicap Accessible

Community Features

• Community Center w/planned activities• Individual Gardening Areas• Gazebo with Flower Gardens• Horse Shoe Pit

COME COME ON ON HOME!HOME!

Section 8 vouchers accepted and transferable from Georgia to South Carolina!

Equal Housing Opportunity

Senior Living at its best!

Enjoy the quiet gazebo

with flowers, horseshoe

pit, individual gardening

areas, and a community

center with planned

activities for everyone.

Residents must be

55 and over.

Vintage GardensAt Sweetwater

Vintage GardensAt Sweetwater

3 Murrah Road ExtensionN. Augusta, SC 29860

(803) 819-3139

Monday-Friday, 9 am-3 pmSaturday, by appointment

~ SERVICES PROVIDED ~•.Coordinated care driven by the patient and family’s wishes

• Case management and care in the patient’s setting

• Symptom management with primary focus on physicalcomfort

• Covered under Medicare, Medicaid and many privateinsurance plans

• Intensive support services – psychosocial, spiritual andbereavement care – for the family

Serving 14 Counties in the CSRA!3685 Old Petersburg Rd.

Suite 145, Augusta, GA 30907

(706) 447-2461802 East Martintown Rd.

Suite 200, North Augusta, SC 29841

(803) 441-0174GA License: 036-239HSC License: HPC-109

TOLL FREE: (877) 440-2461

Editor’s Note: If you have written a“well-worked” poem which you wouldlike considered for publication, pleaseforward it to: Senior News, P. O. Box8389, Warner Robins, GA 31095-8389.Please include your name and address onyour poem. We will publish selectedpoems (or excerpts) as space permits.

*********

TRANSITIONby Henry Newton Goldman

Lord, let me not fear the death,That I know is imminent some day.Just hold my hand and walk with me,As you guide me along that way.

I know there may be pain to bear,But help me suffer it through,Until I rest in your kind arms,And start new life with you.

Give me a mind, clear to the end,Before my final rest.Keep my eyes open to see ‘til I sleep,All those with me you have blessed.

I know that I can bear it best,While your comforting arms enfold.Oh let me not turn loose your hand,Until in heaven your face I behold.

*********

NOT OLD... JUST OLDERby Frankie Lee

When times seem hard and daysseem long

And life is difficult to bearIf you get discouraged and feel

so alone,And just seem to stop to care

It’s then that you need to call outHis name

And ask Him for all your strengthTo face what life brings in the yearAnd find your joy again

Things get harder as we all get olderAnd our minds wonder to the pastAll that we did and lovedWe now find hard to finish any task

This is when we must look up highAnd ask for guidance to our new lifeIt doesn’t mean we are old, just olderIt doesn’t mean we can’t walk, just

slowerIt doesn’t mean we have to forget

and feel sadWe still have many years to look

forward to

And laugh and be glad

We can close our eyes and touchour heart

And see the memories in our mindWe can look at our loved ones and

rememberThe many good timesWe have so much stored away in

our mindTo viewAnd so much yet to be thankful

for too

We are not old, just olderAnd let’s not forget wiser, yes wiserWiser in ways computers can’t beWiser in knowledge about you

and meWiser to know that it’s just another

chapterIn this new life we bear

We look up and thank God, for all that we have

And suddenly we realize, it’s really not bad

We earned our rest, so we can sitWe have a lot to be happy forWe aren’t old, just older

*********

Page 4 • March 2015 • Senior News • Augusta

Websitewww.seniornewsga.com

EditorAnn Tunali

Email: seniornews@msn.com

Advertising AccountExecutives

Carolyn Brenneman706-407-1564

seniornewsga@att.net

Janet Tassitano678-575-4184

jan@jjmconsulting.com

ColumnistsCarolyn Brenneman

Kathleen ErnceLisa Petsche

Dr. Anne Jones

*********Published monthly. Business

Office is located at 115 BighamDrive, Warner Robins, GA31088. Approximate MonthlyReadership: Metro Atlanta, 65,000;Augusta, 27,000; Macon/CentralGeorgia, 21,000. Editorial andadvertising copy deadline is the15th of the month. Preference isgiven to editorial copy submittedearliest.

Publishers do not accept anyliability whatsoever for anymaterial supplied by advertisersor editorial organizations includ-ing the use of trademarks, logo-types, slogans, or other servicemarks, or any claims made bysuch organizations and suchorganizations indemnify and saveharmless the publishers in theevent of any lawsuit or litigation.In the event of any publishers'error in the content of any adver-tisement, maximum liability shallbe limited to the cost of theadvertising area in which theerror occurred. Publishersreserve the rights to edit or rejectany materials submitted for pub-lication.

Editorial information youwould like considered for publi-cation should be mailed to:Senior News, P. O. Box 8389,Warner Robins, GA 31095-8389.

*********CORPORATE OFFICE

Billy R. Tucker, President/PublisherPhone: 478-929-3636FAX: 478-929-4258

www.seniornewsga.comE-mail: Seniornewsga@cox.net

Copyright 1987Senior News & Views of Georgia

Serving Augusta & the CSRA

PPooeettss’’ CCoorrnneerr

by DANIEL W. GATLYN, USN Ret.Minister/Journalist

The simple definition of"collateral damage" is those woundsor damage which occurs to people orproperties on the periphery of attack(or incident) but which is not intend-ed! In a News segment on televisionFebruary 20, the Iraq Ambassador tothe United States stated that "in ourforthcoming assault to retake the cityof Mosul, we must prevent collateraldamage." I cringed and chuckled at

this statement, for such has become afact of life! No one is equipped to(mentally) handle the damage tolives and properties that occur acci-dentally as we "roar through life!" Itis sad, but probable, that the highestratio of fatalities and scars happen tothose who are caught up in the fray –but are not centerfold for the battle!And, all does not happen in battlezones! There are literally millionstraversing the land – crippled, bent,twisted, deranged, blind, deaf, andtormented – made that way by acoincidental geography and acts ofaggression! Echoes of such carnage

will be discerned ordiscovered foryears following!

In our day,when we speak ofcollateral damage,we generally pointto war, it's region,and it's manyimplications! To besure, Veterans arereturning to thehomeland, many ofwhich have beenvictims of woundsor close calls(explosives near-by), conditions thathave traumatizedtheir minds andspirits! Some ofthis is labeled PostTraumatic StressDisorder! (I havejust had a brief

encounter with one, a young warriorwho returned from Iraq with PTSDand who suffers years after combat!No wounds are visible – but hisactions are indicative of what tran-spired in the vicinity.) Obviously,many have lost limbs, sight andhearing in the thick of battle; but, dobe aware that where war is waged,many innocent women, children, and"passersby" are going to be hurt!

Readers may have a predeter-mined opinion of Veteran Eddie RayRouth, who shot and killed SealSniper Chris Kyle (and friend) in2013; and, the trial that is underway(as we write) in Texas! But whateverelse is determined; please make noteof this! Eddie Routh was (and is) adistinctly troubled individual fromcollateral damage! I do not exoneratethe man; nor excuse his bout withdrugs – and every citizen is horrifiedat what happened – but such is theaftermath which follows our engage-ments around the world!

It is a tragedy that armed conflictis not confined to specific areas;while the awful truth reaches ourears of untold thousands who sufferinadvertently... simply because theyoccupied adjacent territory! A muchlarger implication is that our words,and our actions (regardless of geog-raphy), will not only damage the per-sonnel and properties targeted, butwill also leave it's diabolical mark oninnocent bystanders!

Think this through before yournext journey of revenge; or, effortsto "fix the world!"

Crossword PuzzlesSudoku Puzzles

Informational Articles

Available for your enjoymenton our website at

www.seniornewsga.com/games~ PLEASE VISIT OFTEN ~

“Collateral Damage”

by CAROLYN BRENNEMAN

Photography used with permissionby the Harmony River Chorus

COVER:Rebecca Kruckow andJacqui Devoti

Do you want to enjoy thesweet sounds and lively entertain-ment of a group that loves to sing acappella harmony, dress up in cos-tumes and perform for audiences?Then the Harmony River Chorusmay be just for you. This greatorganization currently consists of 26female singers, who sing the praisesof barbershop and four-part harmonyfor the community. Harmony RiverChorus, a chapter of Sweet AdelinesInternational, has four parts consist-ing of bass, baritone, lead, and tenor.They also have Quartets that workdiligently to hone and perfect thechords for ballads, barbershop, andshow tunes to perform on specialoccasions.

Harmony River Chorus, will beperforming in Winston-Salem, NorthCarolina for their annual competitionon March 28th. They will competewith many other choruses all overthe Southeast. This year, HarmonyRiver Chorus has put together acompetition package that capturesthe fun and fame of the ever popularrodeo queen in addition to a beauti-ful ballad that will captivate audi-ences with their incredible har-monies and interpretation of fallingin love! Their competition packageconsists of a song typically known asan "uptune" and a ballad. The"uptune" is humorous and fast paced,while the ballad is slower and gives

the group the opportunity to displaytheir skill in harmonizing finelytuned chords and interpreting themusical style.

In addition to the annual compe-tition, Harmony River Chorus willparticipate in the YuchikiokeeFestival in March as well. During theyear, they perform at events such asArt in the Park, Art After Dark, andfor Christmas performances acrossthe area including HopelandsGardens in Aiken and Camellia Walkin Evans.

Their repertoire is vast andincludes modern ballads, popularshow tunes, gospel music, jazz, and20th Century pieces, as well as otherstyles. This chorus has performedsongs such as, "One Fine Day," afavorite of audiences alike. In addi-tion to "Ain't That Good News," agospel medley, a piece from the popera includes "River of Dreams" orig-inally made popular by Billy Joel.International organization songs,"Harmonize the World" and "ThankYou Dear Lord for Music" arealways signature pieces performedfor audiences as well. The repertoireis ever growing.

Rebecca Kruckow, who has beenwith the group for five years, singsbass as well as lead for manymelodies. “I am honored to be a partof such a lovely group of vocalistsand performers. I find that our com-mon bond of harmony has led togreat friendships, learning experi-ences, and education. These ladiesare truly supportive, inspirational,and talented individuals that I ampleased to call friends.”

Do you want to hire them foryour group’s entertainment? If so,please visit the Harmony RiverChorus at http://harmonyrivercho-rus.org.

OOnn tthhee CCoovveerr

Listen to the sounds of the Harmony River Chorus!

March 2015 • Senior News • Augusta • Page 5

THE LEDGES APARTMENTS

Applications Taken at 550 Sikes Hill, North Augusta, SC

803-279-1776theledges@comcast .net

INDEPENDENT RETIREMENT LIVING IN THE HEART OFNORTH AUGUSTA WITHOUT LEAVING FAMILY, FRIENDS,

COMMUNITY AND CHURCH AFFILIATIONS

• Quality, Independent Living For Seniors• Must Be At Least 62 Years Old• Rent Based On Adjusted Income (HUD Guidelines)• Utilities Included In Rent• One Bedroom and Efficiencies (Perfect For One)• Smoke-Free Building• Service Coordinator Available• Added Safety Features In Bathroom• Elevators For Your Convenience• Coin Operated Laundry Rooms On Each Floor

Two members ready in costume for a performance

The group ready to travel for an upcoming show

The Harmony River Chorus in costume

AUGUSTA/CSRA METRO AREASenior Services & Events Directory

**********************The Senior Citizens Council

4210 Columbia Road, Suite 13A,Martinez, GA 30907; 706-868-0120www.seniorcitizenscouncil.org

The Senior Citizens Council is openMonday through Friday for the followingservices:• Advocacy Programs Department –including: Caseworker Services -Caregiver Respite, Referral Informationand Suuport (CRRIS); Bill and MoneyManagement (MAP); Senior HealthInsurance and Education (SHINE) - theCenter for the Prevention of Elber Abuse,Neglect and Exploitation.• The Senior Corps Department: FosterGrandparent Program (FGP) and SeniorCompanion Program (SCP) for income-eligible persons age 55 and older who“serve up to 20 hours a week with specialneeds children or adults.” Call us at 706-868-0120 for complete details. TheRetired and Senior Volunteer Program(RSVP) for individuals looking for “funand rewarding ways to make a differencein the community” or just get out-of-the-house a few hours a month. RSVPrecruits individuals age 55 and over forthe opportunity to apply their skills,expertise, and experience to help meetcritical community needs while meetingother like-minded folks in our communi-ty. RSVP pairs talented volunteers with avariety of local nonprofit, health care,governmental, and faith based organiza-tions to assist these groups with meetingthe needs of those they serve. Please callus at 706-868-0120 for details on any ofour programs or make an appointment fora needed service. Our physical address is4210 Columbia Road, Suite 13A,Martinez, GA 30907, Monday throughFriday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

*********CSRA Senior Centers

Over 60? Enjoy socializing, parties,cards, crafts, Bingo and travel? Interested

in staying healthy and active? Tired ofeating lunch alone? If you answered YESto these questions, then you need to checkout a Senior Center near you!• Blythe Area Recreation DepartmentPatricia Strakosch; 3129 Highway 88,Blythe, GA 30805; 706-592-6668• Carrie J. Mays Recreation CenterSheryl Jones; 1015 11th Ave., Augusta,GA 30901; 706-821-2831• East View Community CenterRoberta Sullivan; 644 Aiken St., Augusta,GA 30901; 706-722-2302• HH Brigham Senior CenterHeather Kooms; 2463 Golden Camp Rd.,Augusta, GA 30906; 706-772-5456• McBean Community CenterWillamae Shaheed; 1155 Hephzibah-McBean Rd., Hephzibah, GA 30815; 706-560-1814 or 706-560-2628• Sand Hills Community CenterLillie Rosier; 2540 Wheeler Rd., Augusta,GA 30904; 706-842-1912 or 706-842-1916• New Bethlehem Community Center,Inc.Millicent E. West; 1336 Conklin Ave.,Augusta, GA 30901; 706-722-0086• Bessie Thomas Community CenterJeff Asman; 5913 Euchee Creek Dr.,Grovetown, GA 30813; 706-556-0308• Burke County Senior CenterJackie Brayboy; 717 W. 6th St.,Waynesboro, GA 30830; 706-437-8007• Glascock County Senior CenterAnita May; 568 Brassell Park Ln.,Gibson, GA 30810; 706-598-3050• Grovetown Senior CenterJennifer Thomas; 103 W. Robinson Ave.,Grovetown, GA 30813; 706-210-8699• Betty Hill Senior Citizens CenterCathie Birdsong; 330 Waters Work Rd.,Sparta, GA 31087; 706-444-7532• Harlem Senior CenterTina Sidener; 405 B West Church St.,Harlem, GA 30814; 706-449-8400• Jefferson County Senior CenterMarie Swint; 209 E. 7th St., Louisville,GA 30434; 478-625-8820 • McDuffie Senior CenterMelinda Hill; 304 Greenway St.,Thomson, GA 30824; 706-595-7502• Jenkins County Senior CenterShirley Chance; 998 College Ave.,Millen, GA 30442; 478-982-4213• Lincoln County Senior CenterPam Parton; 160 May Ave., Lincolnton,GA 30817; 706-359-3760• Sylvania Senior CenterCathy Forehand; 209 E. Ogeechee St.,Sylvania, GA 30467; 912-564-7727

• Taliaferro County Senior CenterAllene Oliver; 119 Commerce St.,Crawfordville, GA 30631; 706-456-2611• Warren County Senior CenterGwanda Murray; 48 Warren St.,Warrenton, GA 30828; 706-465-3539 • Washington County Council on AgingJane Colson; 466 Maurice Friedman Rd.,Sandersville, GA 31082; 478-552-0898(Mon., Tues, and Thurs.)478-552-0013• Wilkes CountyDiana Hall; 108 Marshall St.,Washington, GA 30673; 706-678-2518 • Shiloh Comprehensive CommunityCenterElizabeth Jones; 1635 15th St., Augusta,GA 30901; 706-738-0089

*********H. H. Brigham Senior Center2463 Golden Camp Rd., AugustaContact: Patricia A. Jenner706-772-5456; 1 a.m.-3 p.m.

*********Aiken County Parks, Recreation &Tourism902 Vaucluse Rd., Aiken, SC 29801; 803-642-7559;www.aikencountysc.gov/tourismCourtney Senior Center49 Roy St., Wagener, SC; 564-5211• Senior Bingo: 3rd Fri., 2 p.m., Free• Canasta Club: Wednesdays, 12 noon,FreeHarrison-Caver Park4181 Augusta Rd., Clearwater, SC; 593-4698Aiken County Recreation Center917 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Graniteville,SC; 663-6142Roy Warner Park4287 Festival Trail Rd., Wagener, SC;564-6149

*********Academy for LifelongLearning, USC-AikenInformation: 803-641-3288

*********Hearing Loss Association of Augusta

Meetings are held on the 3rdMonday, September-April except forDecember, at University Hospital, 1350Walton Way, Dining Rooms 1-3. Socialbegins at 5:30 p.m. and meeting at 6 p.m.For information on the organizationplease contact Gayle Tison, President, athttp://emptyg3@knology.net.

*********Hephzibah Lions ClubMeets the 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m.,Jesse Carroll Community Center,

Windsor Spring Rd., Hephzibah. Foradditional information contact Lion FrankSpinney, President, at 706-592-5618 orJon Winters at 706-592-9622 or 706-833-0458.

*********Morris Museum of Art1 Tenth Street at Riverwalk in AugustaRiverfront Center. Call 706-724-7501 formore information or visit the Museum’swebsite at www.the morris.org.• Mommy and Me: Beautiful Books:Thurs., Feb. 5, 10-11 a.m.• Art Now Artist Talk: Brian Dettmer:Thurs., Feb. 5, 6-8 p.m.• Morris Museum of Art Gala: Fri., Feb.6, 7 p.m.• Southern Soul & Song Concert Series:Sam Bush, Fri., Feb. 13

*********Gertrude Herbert Institute of ArtLocated at 506 Telfair Street, Augusta.Call 706-722-5495 for information.

*********Caregiver Support GroupAre you caring for a spouse or parent?Join other caregivers to share experi-ences, gather practical resources and findthe support you need. The group meetsthe 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30p.m. at the Friedman Branch Librarylocated at 1447 Jackson Road in Augusta.For more information contact GeorgiaJopling, Caregiver Specialist, AreaAgency on Aging, 706-210-2000 or 888-922-4464.

*********Augusta Museum of History560 Reynolds Street in downtownAugusta. Call 706-722-8454 for eventsinformation.• Brown Bag History Series Lecture:What it Takes to be a Farmer: Wed.,March 4, 12:30 p.m.• Night at the Museum: March 26. Doorsopen at 6 p.m.; tours begin at 6:30 and7:30 p.m. Business casual. $50 per per-son. Refreshements.

continued on page 7

CASKETS & MORE STORENow In Our New Location

1819 Walton Way • Augusta

Great Savings on a Large Selection ofCaskets, Monuments and Grave Markers!

Direct to the Public!

706-738-2999“Specializing in all types of grave markers and coping”

Sue Jones

GUARDIAN ADLITIEM HEALTH SERVICES, LLC

Main: 706-793-0971Fax: 706-793-0950

Direct: 706-793-09603350 Peach Orchard Rd.

Suite 807Augusta, GA 30906

Specializing in Private Home Health

General Business Directory For Seniors

Page 6 • March 2015 • Senior News • Augusta

Missed your copyof Senior News?

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Just visit us atwww.seniornewsga.com

and click on “ARCHIVES”

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Carolyn Brenneman

706-407-1564

Janet Tassitano

678-575-4184

Do you Need Glasses,Dentures or Dental?

If you have Medicare, Call me.I Might be able to Help.

Bill Phillips706-284-1635

EVENTSfrom page 6

Voices of the Past Museum Theater• A Petersburg Boat Pilot: Sat., March. 7,11:30 a.m., 12:30 & 1:30 p.m.• The Other Tubmans: Sat., March. 14,11:30 a.m., 12:30 & 1:30 p.m.

*********Lucy Craft LaneyMuseum of Black Historywww.lucycraftlaneymuseum.comCall 706-724-3576 for events informa-tion.

*********"Dance with Us”

The Augusta Chapter of USABallroom Dance invites beginners to prosto our FIRST SATURDAY of each monthsocial dance at the American Legion Post63, 90 Milledge Rd., Augusta. Members,$8; guests, $10. No partner need! Freedance lesson and a great food table. For agroup of 6 or more first time guests wecan make arrangements for you to comefree.

For more information call BobAnzuoni at 803-215-4010 or visitwww.augustadancing.org.

*********Augusta Christian Singles Dance

Meets in the Ballroom Dance Center,525 Grand Slam Dr., Evans from 6:30-10:30 p.m. Admission: $8 members; $10guests. Free dance lessons, refreshments.

*********Fraternal Order of Eagles #11971999 Scott Rd., Augusta. Like to dance –join us 8-12 p.m. every Saturday. Livecountry band. Cover charge $5 at thedoor. Bingo: Sun., 1:30 p.m.; Mon. &Thurs., 6:30 p.m. Kitchen open one hourprior to Bingo. Steak supper 1st Sat. Fordetails call 706-790-8040 or 803-270-0981.

*********AARP Augusta Local 266

There is more to AARP than a news-paper and a magazine. The local chaptermeets at the Kroc Center, The SalvationArmy, 1833 Broad Street, Augusta. Foradditional information or to join, callMrs. Stella Nunnally, Chapter President,at 706-724-0045.

*********Al-Anon and Alateen Groups

Al-Anon and Alateen Groups meet invarious locations in the CSRA Mon.-Sat.For information or a listing of meeting inthe area call 706-738-7984. To locate

meeting throughout Georgia call 800-568-1615.

*********Friday Night DanceEvery Friday, 8-11 p.m., AmericanLegion Post 63, 90 Millege Rd., Augusta.With band or DJ. $10 cost. Free coffeeand cake. Everyone welcome. Call 706-733-5184.

*********Augusta Area Newcomers Club

The Augusta Area Newcomers Clubis a non-profit organization that helpspeople who are new to the area get accli-mated, make friends, and get involvedwith charitable organizations. We offer avariety of activities such as golf, bookgroups, and dining out. For informationplease contact hospitality@augustanew-comers.net or call Susan Salisbury at 706-814-6297.

*********Pieceful Hearts Quilt GuildMeets on Monday nights, 7-9 p.m., andThursday mornings, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at St.Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church,Martintown Rd., North Augusta. Fordetails call 803-279-6456 or 706-790-4975.

*********Augusta Chapter Of TheEmbroiderers’ Guild Of America

Anyone with an appreciation ofembroidery is welcome. Chapter consistsof women with diverse backgrounds,experience, and ages who share an inter-est and pleasure in needlework. Meetingsinclude a review of local needleworkactivities, some hands-on stitching,refreshments, and socialization. Meets the1st Mon. of each month at AllianceMissionary Church, 2801 Ingleside Dr.,Augusta. For additional information callNatalie Farrell at 706-736-5508.

*********Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support GroupMeets 3rd Tues., 6:30 p.m., BrandonWilde Retirement Community, Evans. Fordetails call 706-854-3591 or 706-854-3501.

*********CSRA Parkinson Support GroupMeets monthly, St. John Towers DiningRoom, 724 Greene St., Augusta. Fordetails call 706-364-1662.

*********Area Agency on Aging OfferingsLearn through a 30-Minute session, 3rdThurs. each month, 1 p.m., KROC CenterAugusta, Senior Lounge, 1833 Broad St.Registration not required. Contact Lee

Walker, Resource Specialist, 706-922-8348 or 706-210-2018.

*********ENOPION Tickets On Sale For THESUPPER

The Supper is a beautiful musicalproduction surrounding LeonardoDaVinci’s famous painting of The LastSupper.

Two ways to enjoy The Supper – ADinner Theater and a Non-Dining Option.

For complete information and to pur-chase tickets call 706-771-7777 or visit

www.TheSupperLive.com*********

Hearing Aid Associates,Inc.Join us for a FREE lunch and hear-

ing loss seminar! Tuesday, April 21st, at11:15 AM at the Golden Corral inAugusta, GA. No obligations, completelyfree! Call (706) 868-8862 today toreserve your spot! We will answer anyquestions you may have about your hear-ing health. Lunch will be provided byHearing Aid Associates Inc.

*********

General Business Directory For Seniors

Dorothy Grady, RNOwner/Executive Director

801 Oakhurst DriveEvans, GA 30809www.sarahcare.com/evanstolocksPhone: 706-364-7430Fax: 706-364-7854Cell: 706-399-7169dgrady@sarahcare.com

YOUR DONATIONS

When you donate yourclothing and household

items to Goodwill Industries, themerchandise will be processed by trainees and resoldat Goodwill stores to fund job training and placement

services for people with barriers to employment

YOUR TIMESpend an afternoon, or a few hours each week giving

back to the community. Make volunteeringa part of your family activities.

CALL: Mid GA: 478.957.9741OR CSRA: 706.790.5350

Goodwill NEEDS

YOU!

To find a location near you, visit

www.goodwillworks.org

We are Comfort Keepers

WWW.COMFORTKEEPERS.COM

Comfort Keepers® provide in-home care such as:• Companionship • Personal Care• Meal Preparation • Transportation

• Your Local EEOICP ProviderServices are provided for as little as a few hours a

day up to 24/7. Call today to schedule a complimentaryin-home assessment.

803-279-7100Independently owned and operated since 2002

March 2015 • Senior News • Augusta • Page 7

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Carolyn Brenneman

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Page 8 • March 2015 • Senior News • Augusta

TTaakkiinngg CCaarree

Social workers can help in many waysby LISA M. PETSCHE

Along the journey of caringfor an older relative, chances are goodthat you will come in contact with a

social worker.Social work is

a profession with along history ofcommitment toimproving the wellbeing of people insociety, particularlythe disadvantaged.

Social workersunderstand the complex interactionbetween individuals and their environ-ment, and use a variety of strategies tobring about change in persons, situa-tions and institutions. Trained at theuniversity level, they are employed ina wide variety of areas that includedirect work with individuals, familiesand groups, community development,human resources development, socialpolicy, program planning, teaching andresearch. The majority are involved indirect service.

Social workers believe in theintrinsic worth and dignity of everyhuman being. They are committed tothe values of acceptance, respect forindividuality and belief in the client’scapacity for growth. This makes themstrong advocates for individual rightsand social justice.

Their goal is to empower clients,assisting them to identify their prob-lems and find meaningful solutions,building on their existing strengths.Their assessment includes looking athow client’s physical and social envi-ronment may be contributing to theirdifficulties and how it might bechanged.

In clinical settings, social workershelp clients with anxiety, depression,stress, anger management, grief, rela-tionship difficulties, financial prob-lems and other resource issues, andlife transitions. They connect peoplewith community resources and advo-cate for appropriate services where

none exist. They aim to prevent crisesand, when a person presents to themalready in crisis, to help them achievethem achieve a positive outcome.

Assessing needs:In the community, social workers

can be found in many healthcare set-tings, including medical clinics, gov-ernment-funded agencies, non-profitorganizations such as the Alzheimer’sAssociation, home healthcare agenciesand day care programs. Some workersdo home visits.

The role of a community socialworker may include: assessing clientssocial, emotional and daily living(practical) needs, their strengths, thesupport available to them, and theareas where they require further sup-port; providing one-to-one or familycounseling; facilitating support groups;providing education (for example,about normal reactions to stressful sit-uations and strategies for dealing withstress); and providing informationabout and referral to communityresources that can help improveclient’s quality of life.

Teamwork:In healthcare settings such as hos-

pitals and long-term care facilities,social workers are typically part of aninterdisciplinary team that includes thefollowing professionals: physicians,nurses, physical therapist, occupationaltherapist, dietitian, speech-languagepathologist, and recreation therapist.

Social workers contribute knowl-edge about emotional health, lifestages, relationships, and communityresources. Their work includes assess-ing the social, emotional, and personalimplications of health changes andhospitalization or institutionalizationfor patients and their families; andhelping them learn how to cope moreeffectively with losses, emotional con-cerns, behavioral changes, familyproblems, financial worries, and otherpractical matters. They also serve asan advocate for patients, helping themovercome barriers to service within the

institution and in the community.In hospitals, social workers coor-

dinate discharge planning, facilitatingcommunication among the patient, sig-nificant other and internal and externalhealthcare providers. They assist withproblem solving and making necessaryarrangements for the patient to returnhome or transfer to an alternate set-ting, such as a nursing facility for con-valescent care, a rehabilitation facilityfor reactivation, or a nursing home forlong-term care.

When a patient’s situation is com-plex, the social worker may organize adischarge conference to review thepersons needs – addressing medicalmanagement, activities of daily living(self-care and home managementskills), mobility, safety, finances,access to the community, recreationand leisure, and caregiver relief – anddiscuss options for ensuring they aremet.

Helping with adjustment:In long-term care facilities, social

workers play a significant role aroundthe time of admission. They may beinvolved in reviewing referrals andorganizing pre-admission tours. Upona resident’s admission, they provideorientation for the person and his orher family, as well as supportive coun-seling around adjustment issues.

During this initial period, social

workers gather personal and socialinformation about the new resident –such as birthplace, work history, sig-nificant relationships, pastimes andskills, personality, cultural and reli-gious background, routines and habits- and share it with caregiving staff tohelp them get to know and understandthe person and better meet his or herneeds.

Their ongoing role includesaddressing quality of life, autonomy,and end of life issues; screening resi-dents for depression; running supportgroups for residents and family mem-bers; and mediating between residentsand staff, co-residents, or family mem-bers, as well as between staff and fam-ilies, when conflict arises. In addition,social workers serve as a resource forlong-term care staff regarding commu-nication skills, coping styles, familydynamics, mental health, and ethicalissues.

(Author’s note: March is NationalSocial Work Month. For more infor-mation about the social work profes-sion, go on line to: www.help-startshere.org.)

*********

Lisa M. Petsche is a social workerand a freelance writer specializing inboomer and senior health matters. Shehas personal and professional experi-ence with elder care.

Strawberry pancakes?YUMMY!

A nutritiousstrawberry smoothie?SO GOOD!

LusciousStrawberry Cake!

The Senior Citizens Councilis taking orders for fresh, big and juicy strawberries!

Sold as flats at $20.00 per flat. All orders must be prepaid by March20, 2015 and must be picked up on Friday, March 27, 2015 between7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at our office located at 4210 Columbia Road,Suite 13-A, Martinez.

Please place your order by email to Kat at: katernce@gmail.com; byphone at 706-868-0120; or, by sending your check for $20.00 timesthe number of flats you request. Please make check payable to theSenior Citizens Council.

~ THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT ~

Special to Senior News

Evert Cornelius began teach-ing in Richmond County in 1972 atHornesby Elementary. In 1975 hemoved to Lucy Laney High Schoolwhere he taught World History.Next, he was transferred to ButlerHigh School where he taught WorldHistory for 25 years and served asthe History Department Chairmanfor several years. Mr. Corneliusserved as the DCT teacher for a yearand then returned to the HistoryDepartment. He retired in 2002.

Mr. Cornelius served in theArmy Reserve and was on activeduty at Fort Gordon 1970-72. Heretired with 20 years service at therank of LTC.Evert Cornelius

Evert Cornelius honored as RichmondCounty Retired Educator of the Month

Lisa Petsche