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Volume 43, No. 1

A Community of Life and Living! A Publication of Magnolia Manor Senior Living

It’s hard to believe that another year has come and gone. This time last year, we were working on overcoming the effects of the pandemic, as well as making plans for what was to come in 2021. Fast forward to 2022, guess what, we are still fighting to overcome the pandemic, working through issues of workforce recruitment and retention, and looking for ways to plan for the future. We have finally been able to open visitation. We are finishing major renovations at Magnolia Manor of Midway and the Americus Nursing Center despite construction and supply delays, and we have done smaller refurbishment projects at many of our other campuses.

Magnolia Manor, Inc.

OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2021

Active Trustees Mr. Russ Carreker Mr. Ed Collier Mrs. Ann Harris Mr. Mark Johnson Mr. Will Peterson, IV Mr. Charles Pryor Mr. Chuck Reeves Mr. Charles Ray Sheffield Mr. Ty Turner Mrs. Edie Vinson Mr. Hal Weathers Mrs. Jean Wheeler Mr. George Youmans, Jr.

I have recently been reading the book, The Catalyst, by Jonah Berger, which explains that everyone has something they want to change. “Marketers want to change their customer’s

minds and leaders want to change organizations. Successful change agents know it’s not about being more persuasive or providing more information, but it’s about taking a different tack.” Most people would overcome barriers by pushing harder, but this book talks about doing the opposite by removing roadblocks and reducing barriers to change.

“Instead of asking, ‘What could I do to try to convince someone? They ask, ‘Why haven’t they changed already?’ What’s stopping them?” Magnolia Manor is going through an incredible amount of change right now, some of which is intentional while some is forced on us by things going on around us. Hill Fort, Senior Vice President for Operations and COO, often reminds our staff about working on

Executive Committee Chairman–Mr. Mark Johnson Vice Chairman–Mr. Chuck Reeves Secretary–Mrs. Jean Wheeler

the “big rocks,” but I think he is really challenging them to remove the barriers. I don’t

Emeritus Members Rev. J. William Dupree

the best place to send your prayers. If you aren’t living here, working here, or supporting

Ex-Officio Members Bishop David Graves Resident Bishop, South Georgia Conference Rev. Paula Lewis South Central District Superintendent Rev. Steve Patton Northwest District Superintendent Rev. Doreen Smalls Southwest District Superintendent Rev. Craig Hutto North Central District Superintendent Rev. David Thompson Coastal District Superintendent Rev. Stephen Grantham Northeast District Superintendent

Robert Weems, Editor

want to spend all my time telling you about all the reasons Magnolia Manor needs your financial support, why we are a great choice as a place to live or work, and why we are us in the things we do, we want to know why. Please take the time to tell us because this is the catalyst to our success. It’s a new year, times are still uncertain, and barriers and roadblocks are everywhere. Change can only happen when you understand what makes people hesitate to commit. We solicit your prayers, we want your support, it’s a new year and now is the time to live here, work here, or become a supporter of Magnolia Manor. Give us the reasons why any of these things can’t happen in 2022.

Mark R. Todd President & CEO

Director of Communications rweems@magnoliamanor.com

229-349-6558

Christian Tyson, Editor Communications Coordinator ctyson@magnoliamanor.com 2001 South Lee Street Americus, GA 31709

229-352-8620

Cover – Louise Warren, Americus Personal Care Resident

The most popular New Year’s resolutions are about self-improvement such as living healthier, losing weight, finding happiness, exercising more, or stopping some bad habit. However, by this time in the new year, statistics say that 75% of the people have failed to keep their New Year’s resolutions. Even if you do not keep your resolutions, all is not lost! Here are three reasons why it is smart to make New Year’s Resolutions even if you do not keep them for life or even for the year: 1. Hope and Engagement – New Year’s resolutions make you hopeful and optimistic. You expect things to get better. This optimism not only affects you but it also has a positive action that helps those around you. 2. Responsibility – Your responsibility to improve yourself will also affect your families, friends, and communities around you. Therefore, the responsibility to yourself will expand to be a broader responsibility and have a positive influence on others. 3. Inspiration – When you seek to be better, do better, or contribute more, you tend to inspire others with your effort and attitude. Focusing on the future, improvement, and others will typically inspire those around you. New Year’s resolutions are not only important for you but are additionally essential in helping others. Philippians 2:4 says: Let each of you look not only to his own interests but

also to the interests of others. So, if you haven’t made any New Year’s Resolutions or maybe just need to add another one, it isn’t too late. And, the good news is, I have a really easy one for you to try that will benefit you and others. SMILE! Joseph Addison said it best: “What sunshine is to flowers, smiles are to humanity.” There are few things in this world that are more powerful than a smile. This simple expression of optimism and hope not only changes people by making them feel safe and comfortable, but also helps the ones smiling by making them feel happier and more productive.

Ty Kinslow SVP for Communications

Senior Management

Mark R. Todd President and CEO Hill V. Fort Sr. Vice President for Operations

Diane R. Harrison Sr. Vice President for Human Resources

Ty Kinslow Sr. Vice President for Communications

Billy McGlone, Layout & Design Art Director

bmcglone@magnoliamanor.com 2001 South Lee Street Americus, GA 31709

229-302-4360

Activity Assistants Carla Howard and Lisa Kincaid at Magnolia Manor on the Coast

MISSION We serve all through love and support for a lifetime At Magnolia Manor, we’re all about serving others through love and support for a lifetime. It is our goal to provide great living experiences for our residents by remaining attentive to their needs even as those needs evolve over time. Many of our wonderful staff members go beyond their typical job duties to ensure that we meet that goal. Our Activity Assistants at the Richmond Hill campus, Carla Howard and Lisa Kincaid, demonstrate the Magnolia Manor mission each day. Carla was born and raised in Jacksonville, FL. She moved to Georgia after marrying her husband in 1978. In addition to being a wife and providing motherly duties to their two sons, Carla worked as a Consumer Science teacher. She dedicated 30 years as an educator before retiring. With more time on her hands, Carla was eager to find something to do. Lynne Leftwich, Resident Sales Coordinator, reached out to Carla and asked if she would be interested in completing a decorating project for the campus. After completing the project, Carla decided

to volunteer in the Activities Department at Magnolia Manor. Carla began volunteering a couple of years ago, but her journey with Magnolia Manor started several years prior to her volunteer work. Her father, Carl Helbert, was a resident from 2013 until his passing in 2015. In his time as a Magnolia Manor resident, Carla became familiar with the organization and some of the staff. So, when Lynne contacted her about helping with special projects, it was an easy decision to make. She volunteered for about six months before accepting a full-time position as an Activity Assistant in 2019.

“At first, I thought it would be difficult to work here after losing my father. But God has kept me, and I’ve grown to love the residents here at the Manor. I thoroughly enjoy working here,” Carla stated. Carla doesn’t mind sharing the joy. When her neighbor, Lisa Kincaid, was in search of work, Carla recommended Magnolia Manor to her. Lisa joined the Magnolia Manor family in 2020, and it has been a decision that she and the Magnolia Manor team have come to appreciate. Article continued on page 6

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Activity Assistants Lisa Kincaid and Carla Howard at Magnolia Manor on the Coast

“My neighbor, Carla, knew of an opening here and asked if I was interested. I love crafting and playing games, so I thought it would be a perfect fit for me,” shared Lisa. Prior to coming to Magnolia Manor, Lisa worked in the travel industry. She and her husband were living in Washington when her husband received an opportunity to work in Savannah, GA. In addition to a better job opportunity, moving to Georgia would also give them a chance to be closer to their family members. So, they made the move. Lisa continued to work in the travel industry until the pandemic began. With lockdowns and restrictions in place, travel came to a screeching halt, unfortunately putting an end to Lisa’s 25-year travel agent career. Although her career ended due to adverse circumstances, Lisa was able to begin another rewarding career when she joined the Magnolia Manor family in 2020.

“I love the residents. They are dear to my heart. And we have a great team here. We all work together to help each other in different departments. We’re like a family here,” stated Lisa. As Activity Assistants, Carla and Lisa work together to organize different events and activities for the residents. From fun, interactive games and crafts that foster creativity, to building relationships with the community and giving others an opportunity to get involved, they get it done. Carla and Lisa go beyond the typical daily duties of an Activity Assistant to ensure that all aspects of the resident experience contribute to a full lifestyle. Take, for instance, their initiative in revamping the campus Media Center to make it more suitable for the residents.

“We had a vision of what we wanted the library to look like,” stated Lynne Leftwich, Resident Sales Coordinator. “Carla and Lisa

worked collectively with a few of the other staff members to bring it to life. We had the walls repainted, added new carpet, and removed one of the bookshelves to add more space for the residents.” One of the residents helps maintain the library by reorganizing the books and completing tasks such as relabeling, pulling duplicate books, and replacing damaged books to optimize the space. The team also eliminated small print books and replaced them with large print books. With the new renovations, the library has seen an increase in usage. Many groups including the bridge club group, the resident book club, and several other groups meet in the library each week.

“I could not ask for a better partnership with Lisa and Carla,” Lynne stated. “We all get along and feed off each other for ideas. I know that if I need to change up a day’s events, they will get it done. They each have a servant’s heart, and it shows in the way they interact with the residents and the events they do.” Magnolia Manor in Richmond Hill is raising the bar on the quality of crafts, projects, and events offered to residents. The Activities Department plans to keep working collectively to improve and add more engaging activities for the residents to enjoy. To keep up with their progress or find out how you can play a part, please visit www.magnoliamanor.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Activity Assistants Lisa Kincaid and Carla Howard at Magnolia Manor on the Coast

Louise Warren, Americus Personal Care Resident

4 8

Dedicated staff at Magnolia Manor’s Nursing Center of Americus

VISION

Our communities are about life and living... Here at Magnolia Manor, we

first grade, her parents moved

believe everyone should have

the family to Marion County for

the retirement they dreamed

a short period of time. Louise

of. Our staff goes above

attended classes in a two-

and beyond to support the

room schoolhouse before her

residents as they live life at

parents moved the family back

each of our nine campuses,

to Americus. After graduating

showing each of them true love

from high school, she found

and kindness on a day-to-day

a job at the Manhattan Shirt

basis. Many of our residents

Company, where she would

were born and raised in small,

go on to retire in 1988. In the

southern communities, and

42 years she was employed

we share the values they were

there, she served as a

raised to believe in.

machine operator and as a

One of these residents is none other than Louise Warren,

service person.

“When I went to work, the

an Americus Personal Care

Manhattan Shirt Company was

resident. Louise was born and

about the only place in the area

raised in Sumter County as a

where women had a chance to

member of a large family. She

work,” said Louise. “I enjoyed

and her seven siblings enjoyed

it, and I was very active in my

a life filled with love and

local union.”

valuable lessons.

“I had a lot of fun growing

While working at the Manhattan Shirt Company,

up. Of course, I had some

she met her soon - to - be

disagreements with siblings,

husband, Homer. They dated

but everyone enjoyed each

approximately a year before

other,” reminisced Louise. “Our

Homer asked her to marry him.

parents taught us to be nice

They were wed on August 3rd,

and kind to each other.”

1947. Louise and Homer were

The only time Louise lived

happily married for almost 45

outside of Sumter County was

years, raising two children -

as a little girl. When she began

their daughter, Elaine, and Article continued on page 10

9 5

Article continued from page 9

son, Charles. Homer worked for the

“They seemed to be enjoying it at the time,”

telephone company as they raised their

she laughed. “They would tell me about

family in Americus.

things that were going on.”

As time went on, Louise’s family grew. She

When the time came to make a decision, she

was blessed with four grandchildren and

knew just where to look – Magnolia Manor.

four great grandchildren. Unfortunately, she

She contacted the campus and began the

also experienced loss. Her husband passed

move-in process.

away in 1992, which left her alone in their

“Lydia and Kathy were the ones I talked with

home. Louise remained in her home until

the most, but everyone I talked with was

she noticed a need for assistance. Having

really nice and friendly. I really appreciated

lived in Americus most of her life, she knew

how welcoming they were. They made an

of Magnolia Manor. It wasn’t until she made

effort to ensure that I was pleased with what

friends with several of the residents that she

was going on. I was pleased, so I moved out

began to learn more about Magnolia Manor.

here,” stated Louise.

Louise Warren, Americus Personal Care Resident

Louise Warren, Americus Personal Care Resident Louise got settled into her apartment in no

generosity in helping others and making

time. She began exploring different programs

those who may be a little reluctant to get

and activities that the campus offered.

involved feel welcomed at Magnolia Manor.

She participated in worship services led by

Lydia Monroe, Resident Sales Coordinator,

Chaplain Walker and Chaplain Dowdy. The

notes that “one of Ms. Louise’s most valuable

faith-based aspect of Magnolia Manor was

virtues is her kindness towards others.”

something that she really appreciated.

“I don’t have any complaints about living

“I grew up going to Sunday School at

here. The staff and everybody have been

church. I loved it. So, I wanted to remain

really nice to me. If I ask for anything, they’re

involved in church. After I found out that

always willing to help me,” stated Louise.

Magnolia Manor is a faith-based organization, it pleased me,” shared Louise.

Louise recently celebrated her 96th birthday. She attributes her longevity to her faith

After living at Magnolia Manor for a few

and her ability to live by her famous saying,

months, Louise found out that she needed

“Don’t worry. Be happy!” We are blessed to

surgery. During her recovery, she temporarily

have residents like Louise who make life at

moved in with her daughter. In July of last

Magnolia Manor worthwhile. If you would like

year, she moved back to her apartment at

to keep up with our residents, please follow

Magnolia Manor and has been here ever

us on Facebook and Instagram or visit our

since. She has become well-known for her

website at wwwmagnoliamanor.com.

Chaplain Gary Page at Magnolia Manor of Midway

VALUES

Commitment to our faith tradition Being a faith-based

families. At the age of 13, he

organization, one of our main

and his family moved to Baxley,

goals here at Magnolia Manor

Georgia, another small southern

is enriching the spiritual lives of

town just a state away from

our residents. Over the years,

his childhood home. Because

we have been truly blessed

his father was a minister, his

with a number of fine chaplains.

childhood revolved around

Recently, our Midway Campus

church. Although most of

welcomed Chaplain Gary Page

his time was spent in church,

to the staff.

he still made time to join the

Growing up in northern Alabama, Gary and his family lived just outside of town in the

football team and participate in clubs at school.

“I made some life-long friends

country. He was surrounded by

who I still see today,”

family. His grandparents lived

stated Gary.

just down the road from him, while his aunts and uncles lived on either side. Gary remembers the neighborhood was a great, wholesome place where everyone looked out for each other.

Inspired by his father, Gary decided that he wanted to go into ministry. After discussing his decision with his father and praying for several weeks, Gary entered the ministry at the tender age of 12. Even though

“We were in and out of

he was young in the ministry,

everyone’s homes like it

the people closest to him still

was our own. I had a great

allowed Gary to enjoy

childhood. If you were with

his childhood.

kids playing in someone else’s yard, their parents had the same authority over you as your parents did. Everyone looked after one another,” Gary reminisced. Gary has relatives there to this day, mostly cousins and their

“Many of my preaching engagements were on the weekends and during the summers. I did a lot of youth revivals and camps,” said Gary. “It was such a wonderful

experience. One of the things it taught me was that everybody Article continued on page 14

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Chaplain Gary Page Giving Spiritual Guidance at Magnolia Manor of Midway

is different. Everyone has different habits. They don’t live the same way. It made me

we are still very close,” stated Gary. “It was

appreciate my home even more.”

one of the greatest churches to be a part of.”

Gary later became a pastor at a church in

Gary heard of Magnolia Manor while visiting

Monroe, Louisiana. He then moved back to

residents from his congregation. Also, his own

Baxley where he served at a local church. Gary’s next appointment moved him to a community just outside of Nashville, Tennessee. After returning to Georgia, he became a Methodist minister and led churches in Sumter, Tattnall, Ware, Taylor, and Appling Counties. Gary is now retired from full-time ministry but continues to serve in the North Baxley Charge, which includes Melton’s Chapel and Zoar churches. He has been able to make great friendships in every

“I was the pastor there for seven years and

mother-in-law lived in the retirement center on the Americus Campus for a short time during his stay in Sumter County. He first met Rev. Dr. John Walker, the Vice President of Spiritual Care, while they were both preaching in the Americus District. Their friendship grew over the years as they discovered common interests such as sports and mutual acquaintances. John then became Gary’s instructor when he enrolled in the Clinical

congregation he has served, some of which

Pastoral Education (CPE) program. In addition

he still enjoys. But one of the most enjoyable

to his CPE studies, Gary also graduated from

churches he has served is Concord Methodist

the course of study program at

Church in the Sumter County area.

Emory University.

“I took a course which Rev. Dr. John

members even suggested that we designate a

developed for the Methodist Conference

space for a chapel. We are making progress,”

called CPE at Magnolia Manor,” explained

said Gary.

Gary. “I was asked to join the staff at Midway

during a conversation John and I were having about these classes.”

Each Tuesday and Thursday, Gary leads the morning devotional. Once the devotional is completed, he does one-on-one visits with

Gary began work at the Midway Campus

residents. Gary also makes sure he’s available

in late August of 2021 after moving back to

for individual meetings with staff as needed.

the Baxley area to begin his retirement. Even

When he isn’t at Magnolia Manor, Gary spends

though he started in August, he is already

time with his wife Becky. They have three

seeing changes as people begin to ask for

daughters, two sons, and 12 grandchildren.

guidance in their spiritual life. Gary also has plans to convert a vacant room into a chapel for the residents and staff.

“I’ve noticed that residents and staff are

We’re looking forward to continued improvements in spiritual care at Magnolia Manor. If you would like to learn more about the Chaplaincy program or offer your support,

becoming more comfortable with the idea

please follow us on Facebook and Instagram

of having a Chaplain on-site. One of the staff

or visit our website at www.magnoliamanor.com.

Chaplain Gary Page Reading Scriptures to Employees at Magnolia Manor of Midway

Assistant Administrator Angela Hill at Magnolia Manor of Macon

VALUES

Integrity through excellence It takes a solid team of

Angela always had a desire to

professionals to maintain a

work in the healthcare industry.

senior living organization.

She started out with dreams

But it’s no secret that a

to become a pediatrician.

team is only as good as its

As a way to gain experience

leaders. At Magnolia Manor,

in healthcare, Angela began

our administrators strive to

working as an emergency

lead their teams selflessly

medical technician (EMT) at

and ensure that we’re

the age of 18. After five years

demonstrating integrity

of providing efficient medical

through excellence in serving

assistance in very intense, life-

the residents within our

threatening situations, Angela

communities. Professionals on

decided there were other areas

the administrative side of senior

in the healthcare industry that

care must perform a constant

she wanted to explore.

balancing act of apt business

“I really love the experiences

practices and compassion for

that I gained from working as

humankind. This is no easy

an EMT. It gave me a wonderful

undertaking, but administrators

perspective on life in general.

at Magnolia Manor do it each

But I knew that particular area

day. We are glad to have them

wasn’t where I could be for my

at Magnolia Manor. We’re also

entire life,” shared Angela.

excited to introduce to you one of our newest members of the administrative team, Angela Hill.

With this newfound discovery, Angela set out on a journey to find the next step in her

In August of 2021, Angela

healthcare career. That’s when

joined the team at Magnolia

she decided to go to school to

Manor in Macon as the

become a licensed practical

Assistant Administrator of

nurse (LPN). Angela enrolled

Assisted Living. Along with

in the LPN program at Middle

her education and experience,

Georgia Technical College and

Angela has a natural dexterity

graduated with an Associate

for caring for others. Growing

of Science in Nursing degree in

up in Warner Robins, GA,

2010. She spent several years Article continued on page 18

Article continued from page 17

nursing patients back to health through

all business-related operations as well as

bedside nursing. With a desire to further her

acting as a liaison between residents, family

career in the healthcare industry, Angela

members, and staff.

decided to go back to school to obtain

“I love the residents. When I first got here,

her Bachelor of Business in Healthcare

they all were curious to find out who I was.

Management. Angela knew that she would

Now, they’ll pop into my office just to talk to

need to find a position that would help

me. I might be deep in pharmacy consults

her transition from bedside nursing to the

or audits, and a resident will take the time to

administrative side of healthcare. Her search

stop by and see how I’m doing,”

led her to Magnolia Manor.

explained Angela.

“After I completed my interview here, I knew

In addition to her love for the residents,

that I didn’t need to look any further. I felt

Angela also appreciates the effort that the

from the very beginning that this is where

leadership team puts into ensuring that

God wanted me to be,” shared Angela.

residents and staff alike feel welcomed at

Just as fitting as a glove, Angela has settled into her new role. As the Assistant Administrator, she is responsible for handling

Magnolia Manor.

“I don’t think there’s a better company that you can work for. The leadership staff really

Assistant Administrator Angela Hill at Magnolia Manor of Macon

Assistant Administrator Angela Hill at Magnolia Manor of Macon Handing Out Treats at the Fall Festival

cares about their employees. Within the first

“They’re the reason why we’re here. It’s

two weeks of working here, I met so many

easy to maintain a good attitude each day

people from the leadership staff who came

because the residents are all so sweet. Even

to say hey and welcome me. It was really

if we experience stress from the business

unexpected and very nice,” stated Angela. When she isn’t at Magnolia Manor caring for the residents, Angela spends time with her children. She has twin daughters (Hannah and Haleigh) and a son (Connor). She also volunteers for different organizations within the community. In between mothering, working, and volunteering, Angela squeezes

side of things, we must ensure that it doesn’t trickle over into the care that we give to the residents. Besides, spending time with the residents is a great stress reliever because they make it all worth it,” shared Angela. What can we expect in the near future for Assisted Living at Magnolia Manor in Macon? According to Angela: “We’re just going

to keep getting better and better.” That is

in time to bake - one of her favorite hobbies.

always the goal for each of the communities

Cakes are her specialty. There are a lot of

that we serve. You can keep up with our

things that she is proud of, but when it comes

progress by visiting our website at

to her career, Angela believes that working

www.magnoliamanor.com or following us on

with seniors is the most rewarding part.

social media.

Activity Director and Service Coordinator Annamarie Matthews at Magnolia Manor of Macon

VALUES

Healthy mind, body and spirit As technology advances, experts are uncovering new discoveries regarding senior health. Employees at Magnolia Manor strive to remain on the cutting edge of that technology. From senior-friendly Zumba classes to instructor-led water aerobics groups, we provide activities that promote a healthy mind, body, and spirit for our residents. Throughout our years of providing unique activities, we’ve learned that staying fit doesn’t always require a treadmill or a swimming pool. Sometimes remaining fit only requires your favorite music and dance moves. Thanks to one of our newest staff members, we’ve been able to put this knowledge to the test. Meet Annamarie Matthews, the new Activity Director and Service Coordinator at Magnolia Manor in Macon. Annamarie is a BoardCertified Music Therapist (MTBC), and a Georgia State Licensed Practitioner of Music Therapy (LPMT). As a Music Therapist, she has witnessed the health benefits that music provides to residents at Magnolia Manor. Born in Russia, where she lived until the age of seven, Annamarie moved to the United States after being adopted by a couple in Cornelia, GA. Growing up,

Annamarie always had a love for music. She sang in choirs and played instruments every chance she got. It was only natural that she pursued a degree in the music field after graduating from high school. Annamarie enrolled in the Music Therapy program at Georgia College in 2012. She trained on several instruments including the piano and guitar. She also participated in the university choir. In addition to improving her musical skills, Annamarie discovered another side of music that transformed her perspective.

“When I first started studying music therapy, I didn’t realize how clinical the whole field was. It’s similar to other types of therapies, like Physical and Occupational therapies. We Music Therapists use music as our tool to achieve individualized goals for our clients, while Occupational Therapists use other forms of equipment and strategies,” Annamarie explained. After Annamarie graduated from Georgia College in 2016, she got married to her husband, Zachary. They welcomed their son, Elijah, to the world in 2020. Annamarie spent some time at home with Elijah before deciding to come back to work. She began Article continued on page 22

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looking for job openings and came across an Activity Director position at Magnolia Manor. She applied for the job and was hired in August of 2021.

Residents gather to enjoy crafts and games. Their favorite activity is music time but coming in for a close second is bingo. Annamarie enjoys it just as much as the residents.

“I feel very fortunate to be here. I love the people that I work with. I have really good supervisors, and this is a great company. There are also a lot of pianos here that I can hop on and play at any time,” shared Annamarie.

“My favorite part about working in this field is that I get the opportunity to use music to bring people together. I especially love music from the residents’ time period. I enjoy listening to swing, jazz, blues, big-band, country, and rock and roll music from the 1920s through the 1950s. That music was so original with a level of musicality that we don’t see too often in this modern era,” Annamarie explained.

Annamarie doubles as the Activity Director and Service Coordinator for the Assisted Living level of care at Magnolia Manor in Macon. The first half of her day is spent handling paperwork and assisting residents with other tasks such as food stamp applications, health insurance questions, and providing rides for doctor appointments. She checks in on residents to see how they’re doing, and then it’s lunch time. After lunch, she dedicates the rest of the day to activities.

There’s no doubt that the residents appreciate her taste in music. The staff seems to love it too. When it’s time for music, other staff members from different departments can’t resist joining in on the fun. They sing along during the live music sessions and dance with the residents to

Activity Director and Service Coordinator Annamarie Matthews at Magnolia Manor of Macon

Activity Director and Service Coordinator Annamarie Matthews at Magnolia Manor of Macon recorded songs. Although very entertaining, music can also be instrumental in maintaining good health. Annamarie has witnessed the benefits firsthand.

“Through music therapy, my primary goals working with the geriatric population are to provide sensory stimulation, to facilitate memory and reminiscence, and to encourage enjoyment and expression to increase our residents’ quality of life,” stated Annamarie. Annamarie utilizes sing-along sessions to promote social development and boost confidence. In addition to improving social health, the results have led to cognitive benefits as well. Annamarie recalls a time when a resident who was having a bit of trouble with her memory attended one of the music activities. Annamarie noticed that the resident was singing each song word-for-word. Even through several different melodies and tempos,

the resident continued to sing the lyrics from memory. The music is making an impactful difference in the residents’ lives, and it’s safe to say that Annamarie is too.

“I was out sick for a few days. When I returned, one of the residents noticed I had been gone. He told me that he missed me because I keep the place alive. It feels good to know that I’m making a difference. I feel so blessed every time I’m in the atmosphere and I see the residents’ faces light up when they hear a song they know,” stated Annamarie. We are proud to have dedicated individuals like Annamarie, who see employment at Magnolia Manor as more than a job. They see it as an opportunity to fulfill a purpose and change lives for the better. With their help, we can continue making Magnolia Manor the community of life and living that we intend for it to be.

Assisted Living Activity Director Sabrina Folsom at Columbus

VALUES

Creative change and constant improvement Many of the wonderful people

together,” reminisced Sabrina.

who work at Magnolia Manor

“He did the practical side of it,

have described what they do

while I did the administrative side.

here as a calling. They devote

We were a good team.”

their time and skills in their respective fields to bring forth their best each day. Sabrina Folsom is no different. Called out of retirement to lend a helping hand as a hairdresser during the pandemic, Sabrina has been

The Folsom’s had an opportunity to acquire 10 restaurants in the same city, which led them to move their family to Macon, GA. The dynamic duo retired after 30 plus years in the restaurant industry.

an answer to many prayers at

Spending more time with their

Columbus Assisted Living. She

children (four daughters and

currently serves as the Activity

two sons) was the only thing on

Director but wears many hats in

Sabrina’s mind. Since one of their

our community.

daughters had recently moved to

Originally from Glenrose, Texas,

Columbus, the couple felt it was

a community just west of the

best to move to the area to be

Dallas/Fort Worth area, Sabrina

closer to her.

grew up on a ranch. Her family

Shortly after moving, the

has a long history in the state of

administrator of the Columbus

Texas, beginning with her great

Assisted Living Campus

grandparents who were ranchers,

contacted Sabrina and asked

raising Longhorn cattle for more

if she could do hair for the

than five generations. After

residents a couple of days a

graduating from high school,

week. Since she was retired with

Sabrina began a profession as

lots of time on her hands and had

a restaurateur. She married her

a cosmetology license, Sabrina

husband, John, after meeting

agreed to do it. But as time went

him at a local business meeting

on, she found herself doing more

for restaurant owners. They

than just cutting hair.

eventually went into business together which proved to be a match made in heaven.

“It was great working in business

“Everything was on lockdown due to COVID-19 at the time. Activities were pretty much non-existent. I would do one-onArticle continued on page 26

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Assisted Living Activity Director Sabrina Folsom at Columbus Having a Ball with a Resident

one visits in the rooms because I just loved it,” Sabrina shared. Noticing her engagement with the residents, the administrator asked if Sabrina would be

“I’m still not sure what God has planned for me here, because I continue to progress from one thing to the next. I just know that He has a plan, and I trust Him,” explained Sabrina.

interested in becoming the Activity Director.

Sabrina has added yet another hat to her

Sabrina agreed without hesitation. Although

collection. She is a licensed cosmetologist, a

she isn’t quite sure where this opportunity will

certified Activity Director, and has recently

lead her, she remains open to all possibilities.

completed courses to become a Certified

Assisted Living Activity Director Sabrina Folsom at Columbus with her daughter Kelsey Miller, RN Supervisor

Assisted Living Activity Director Sabrina Folsom at Columbus Nursing Assistant (CNA). Sabrina made the

she finishes the day with another game or

decision to increase her medical knowledge so

activity. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

that she could be of assistance to the residents

everyone gets together and plays the all-time

in critical situations.

favorite - BINGO!

“My title is Activity Director, but I still

“The residents are my favorite part of the job.

experience health-related situations which

I’ve also made friends here with my co-workers.

require knowledge outside of activities. Now

Magnolia Manor is a great place to work, and

that I have this knowledge, I can step in and

I’m really proud to work here,” expressed

know what I’m doing if anything happens

Sabrina.

around me,” stated Sabrina. As someone who enjoys lending a helping

Through her true commitment to creative change and constant improvement, Sabrina

hand where needed, Sabrina’s day is typically

leads by example. She along with many of

packed with activity from start to finish. She

our staff make it possible for us to continue

usually begins each day helping residents

upholding our values and providing a life that

with their breakfast. After breakfast, it is on to

our residents can enjoy. If you would like to

hydration and exercise. The residents gather in

know more about how we enrich our residents’

the formal living room and exercise to music.

lives, follow us on Facebook and Instagram or

Then it is on to crafting and lunch. After lunch,

visit our website at www.magnoliamanor.com.

Gretchen Miller, Resident at Magnolia Manor of St. Marys

CREATIVE CORNER Many of our residents at Magnolia Manor are living life to the fullest in their own creative ways. Some do so by engaging in scheduled activities with friends while others put their creative skills to work as a form of self-expression. One of our residents at the St. Marys campus, Gretchen Miller, has the gift of cross-stitching detailed illustrations onto blank canvases. While her talents must be noted, there is more to Gretchen than her cross-stitch artistry. Gretchen grew up in a very old town in Nuremberg, Germany. The school system offered classes in art, language, and other subjects as extracurricular studies. Since foreigners would visit often, Gretchen learned to speak English at the age of 10. She also learned the basics of needlework like sewing and knitting. Gretchen’s studies became a faint memory of good days when World War II broke out in 1939. For the next six years, the entire country suffered greatly as a result of the war. The war left Nuremberg on the brink of total destruction, but Gretchen’s resiliency went untouched. When the insurance firm that she worked for didn’t survive the war, Gretchen remained hopeful and sought other opportunities. She set her sights on moving to the United States. A distant relative agreed to sponsor her, so Gretchen

submitted an immigration application. She underwent a 5-year waiting period before receiving a call approving her application. Unfortunately, her relative couldn’t sponsor her anymore, but all hope wasn’t lost. Gretchen’s friend, Albert Miller, offered to help.

“Albert and I met at a Thanksgiving dinner at the military base. He asked me to dance, so we danced. That’s when we realized we were actually working next door to each other. We dated some, and he knew that I wanted to come to America. When my sponsor couldn’t do it, Albert offered to ask his sister to sponsor me. She agreed, and I moved to America in 1953,” Gretchen recalled. Gretchen arrived in Jacksonville, FL where Albert’s sister was living, and things began to look up for her. Within a week of being in the city, she got a job at Prudential Life Insurance Company. Albert retired from the U.S. Army and joined Gretchen in Jacksonville. The couple got married the following Spring. Gretchen continued working in the insurance industry as Albert went to school and began working in advertising at a mechanical equipment company. Albert also was the Captain of a boat called the Lisa Anne and took clients on fishing trips to the Caribbean Islands. When a surgical operation left her out of

Article continued on page 30

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work for six weeks, Gretchen found a unique way to pass the time. She pulled out her needlework skills and put them to use.

and won a few prizes. While she doesn’t have a favorite piece, there are a couple of them that she believes are unique.

“I stitched whatever appealed to me at the time. I signed up for magazines that described the steps precisely and included information regarding the type of material you needed. There was nothing imprinted on the canvas for you to trace. You had to read the chart and follow the instructions step-by-step,” Gretchen recollected.

“There’s this one picture that took quite some time to complete because it had many different styles of stitches. Each square has a foreign style of stitches from different countries in Europe. I stitched roses into the picture as well. I also like my picture with the railroad going across a bridge. The two boys are fishing, and you can see their fishing line going into the water. I like art that depicts something,” explained Gretchen.

What started out as a temporary pass-time, soon became a permanent hobby for Gretchen. She began creating elaborate pieces of crossstitch art. One of her first cross-stitch pieces was inspired by the Bridges of Madison County photo series. Gretchen made sure to include small details like the ghost that is said to haunt one of the bridges. Gretchen also cross-stitched things like fruit, houses, and flower arrangements. She even entered some of her pieces into the local fair

Gretchen’s most recent work of art is a Christmas tree skirt with an intricately detailed Christmas scene stitched along the hem. It adds a one-ofa-kind touch to her Christmas decorations each year. Although Gretchen has retired her crossstitch needle, she has plenty of space at her Magnolia Manor apartment to commemorate and display her masterpieces.

Gretchen Miller, Resident at Magnolia Manor of St. Marys

“I’m really glad that Magnolia Manor exists. The apartments here are spacious and beautiful. The grounds are gorgeous. I have great friends that I eat lunch with. What more could I ask for?” Gretchen shared. The Millers moved to Magnolia Manor in 2017. Since they didn’t have any children, they felt compelled to prepare senior living arrangements in advance. The two began looking at senior living communities along the entire southeast coast of Georgia and Florida. Albert wanted to be closer to his hometown in Woodbine, GA, so they looked at Magnolia Manor in St. Marys. It happened to be their favorite out of all the places they toured, so they signed up on the waiting list. After two years of searching, they decided to make the move to Independent Living at Magnolia Manor in St. Marys.

“We had long ago taken care of our burials, so we decided that we should look for some help while we were still alive and able. Once an apartment became available here, we moved in,” Gretchen stated.

When they saw the need for more assistance, the Millers moved into Assisted Living. Unfortunately, Albert passed away a few months after their move. The two enjoyed a happy marriage of 67 years. Despite life’s many ups and downs, Gretchen is determined to make the best of it. She even offers wise words for those who may be dealing with hardships: “Not everyone gets to be 95 years old. Throughout the years, I’ve made a lot of decisions in my life. There’s nothing else you can do; you have to make decisions. So, you make the best of it, and you keep going.” There’s no doubt that Gretchen is skilled in the art of cross-stitching. But what may come as a surprise is her ability to master the art of living life to the fullest. Many of our residents at Magnolia Manor live life to the fullest in their own creative ways. If you’d like to learn more about our residents and life at Magnolia Manor, please visit our website at www.magnoliamanor.com and follow us on social media.

Christmas

Giving

In action...

Events

Magnolia Manor Will Host Our Second Annual Evening With Magnolia Event On May 12, 2022.

This event will be held on the lawn of the Lee Council House with a plated dinner catered by The Canterbury Kitchen. Not only will the food be fantastic, but we will also host a silent auction with a live auction f ollowing the dinner. It will be a great time to enjoy delicious food and fellowship with one another while supporting a worthy cause! For more information contact: Kendall Stephens Director of Annual Giving 229-931-5928 or kstephens@magnoliamanor.com

ACTIVITIES

Columbus West Honoring Our Veterans

Magnolia Manor of St Marys Honoring Our Veterans

Magnolia Manor on the Coast Honoring Our Veterans

Magnolia Manor of Midway Honoring Our Veterans