AARP Woodstock Chapter

08/10/2024

08/10/2024

In October, It was Rich’s last meeting as President. He was the speaker; and gave a presentation of the History of AARP and The Chapter with handouts. Many people shared their thanks with cards and gifts. Gina and Pam Jeter came and gave a Bears Jacket. Christine, our former waitress came. Otis and Irene Moore gave Rich a memorial clock. Russ gave Rich an Italian wallet/credit card holder. Others gave Rich cards and cash. Rick was nominated and accepted the Presidency. He also gave a revised Tuscany memu for lunch (slight changes).
Rich was very touched by the outpouring of thanks for his 17 years of service (14 and President).

Memorial Clock Rich with Russ Diehl Rich with Ottis and Irene Rich with Joan Mastroangelo

Rick Lamp and Mary Coup Rich with Gina and jacket Rich with Jay and group

10/09/2024

In September, Bonnie Dobbs spoke to us regarding Medicare Plans – in preparation for the upcoming annual registration. She handed out a comparison of the Plans. She also talked about the changes to the Medicare Part D “donut hole” coming in 2025. She is a wealth of information, and a recognized expert throughout Georgia. She also talked about the Veterans Tricare Medicare plan; and fielded MANY other questions from the members. She handed out goodies too!

14/05/2024

In May, in lieu of a speaker, Rich had bingo games; and the mother’s got flower windmills. Marge won the 50/50; and donated to the chapter. Donna, Joan, Donna, John and I think Inga all won at bingo. A fun time was had by all.

09/04/2024

In April, Sarah Hazan, from Wild Birds, Inc. spoke to the group about caring for birds – especially Hummingbirds. She brought samples of a hummingbird feeder, complete with ant protection and rain protection. She also brought a sample nesting material hanger, and ready to use nectar, and a window hummingbird feeder. Although there are over 300 kinds of hummingbirds, the Atlanta area has only the Ruby throated Hummingbird. It is an amazing bird that can fly backwards and stop in mid-air. The young are only in the nest for 21/2 weeks; and the eggs are jelly bean sized.

12/03/2024

In March, Ottis Moore, of the Cherokee Humane Society and Thrift Store talked about his passion. Helping save pets and find them homes in Cherokee and Atlanta area. The Humane Society will also help get pets spay and neutered. The Society is funded by among other things the sale of goods from their Thrift store – which is located at Highway 92 and Trickum Road (attached to McDonald’s restaurant). It is a 501c Charity which means donations are tax deductible. They are open Monday to Saturday from 10-6pm. They specialize in larger items, working appliances and furniture, which they will pick up.
Ottis also helps out find homes/foster homes for animals at the PetSmart on Highway 92 in Woodstock (Target shopping center).
It was an excellent and heartfelt presentation.

13/02/2024

In February, Mr. Harry Johnston, Chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners, gave a presentation on the County he serves; and obviously is proud of and loves. He talked about the good things about Cherokee – our Water infrastructure, our Cherokee Schools, our Parks, our Public Safety, our low taxes, and many other benefits of living in Cherokee County. The fact that we have the Etowah River provides us with a sustainable water supply. Our Cherokee schools are among the best in the State. Our Parks grown to be the best in the State; and several new parks/trail system are on the horizon. The “green belt” around our County is becoming a reality. Our Public safety (one of the most important things a County can provide), has gained Region, State and even International recognition – Cherokee Sheriff, Cherokee Fire, Cherokee Ambulance and even Cherokee 911 are all examples of excellence. Finally, our tax structure is one of the lowest in the State (28th lowest). The upcoming HOST referendum was discussed. Mr. Johnston also talked about the challenges facing our County. Growth has slowed from 5% per year to 2%. It needs to be even lower (0.75%). Roads need to keep up with growth; and the paving “miles” need to continue to be funded adequately. Mr. Johnston hopes that the State budget surplus will help with the Bells Ferry expansion. It was a great presentation; and we were honored to have Mr. Johnston speak to us.

09/01/2024

In January, Emily Loohauis and Taryn Weeber of Wellstar Physical Therapy gave an excellent talk about health care for seniors; and SPECIFICALLY what seniors can do to keep from falling. Their handouts were EXCEPTIONAL. I forwarded a portion of them to our members under separate cover. It included exercises that can help prevent falling and improve balance, and a checklist for your home to remove potential hazards and factors that can create problems.

12/12/2023

December was our Christmas Party. Rich did the Santa Claus Night Before Christmas game. Gifts for all - and money for some. Fun for all.

14/11/2023

, Bonnie Dobbs, Founder and CEO of Insurance and Other Red Tape, LLC, spoke to the group about Medicare and Medicare Plans. She brought handouts and information sheets. Bonnie is a National expert in the field; and has been published in the Atlanta Journal Constitution and in the US National Council on Aging book (available on Amazon). Bonnie discussed the various Medicare plan options and their costs. She gave excellent advice on what to look for in your plan. Lots of questions were answered. It was a VERY INFORMATIVE and EXCELLENT presentation.

13/09/2023

I KNOW you people do....

12/09/2023

In September, Beth Fields of Woodstock Arts gave a great presentation with LOTS of handouts, regarding the plays and activities of the Woodstock Arts group. She talked about the core values of the organization; and how they guide their work. She also handed out passes to up-coming plays and concerts. Woodstock Arts also provides wonderful education classes and opportunities for young people (and others) to learn and participate in Theatre and other visual arts.