Medicare Misty's Let's Talk! Magazine by Wayfinder Media

LET’S

INSIGHTS & INSPIRATION FOR YOUR LATER YEARS

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT SONIA YOUNG

AT HOME WITH CHATTANOOGA’S “PURPLE LADY” & HER GIRAFFES

IN THIS ISSUE

MAGAZINE SPRING 2021

mother’s day feature FIND FASHION FOR MOTHERS & DAUGHTERS AT IRMA MARIE BOUTIQUE

“COMING HOME” TO MORNING POINTE

GIVING BACK THROUGH THE GIFT OF MUSIC

THE CLASSROOM OF LIFE

LET’S TALK MONEY! WITH TRUE NORTH ADVISORS

A FREE QUARTERLY PUBLICATION

INSURANCE YOU NEED, AGENTS YOU CAN COUNT ON.

Choosing the right health care plan can be daunting for many, but especially for senior citizens. For over 20 years, Misty Bolt and her team have been educating seniors about their personalized options for Medicare. Let MedicareMisty help you understand your insurance options! Simply call today! 423-240-0794 or medicaremisty.com

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Let’s Talk Medicare

Welcome from Misty Bolt Welcome to the Spring 2021 issue! We’re glad you’re here, and sincerely hope you’ll enjoy reading our Spring 2021 Issue as much as we love bringing it to you. Inside these pages, just as in our 2020 Preview Issue, you’ll find a mix of columns on health, community, money, lifestyle, and of course, the ever-evolving and sometimes complex issue of Medicare. Our vision is to bring you helpful, informative and entertaining content. After a long season of the pandemic and waiting for magazine distribution to re-open. we are thrilled to be back in print. With this month being May, we couldn’t help but run with a Mother’s Day theme. What a

privilege for our team to be able to bring you inspiring stories on women like Sonia Young, Chattanooga’s own “Purple Lady,” 110-year-old Halie Forstner, local entrepreneur Janet Miller and last but not least, Benora Holder, a beloved former mother figure to so many in our community. You can find a digital version of the current issue by visiting www. medicaremistysletstalkmagazine.com, or find and follow our Facebook page, @LetsTalkMagazineChattanooga. Happy Spring, Happy Mother’s Day to all of you mothers and mother figures in our beloved “River City.” If I can be of service to you in any way, call me at 423-240-0794, and let’s talk!

About Medicare Misty I’m a native Chattanoogan with a love for life and people. I’m a wife to a retired Air Force military sergeant, who inspires me to continue to do what I love, a devoted mother and owner of my individual Medicare broker business, now a top agency with a team of 20 agents across TN, AL and Northwest GA. God and my family are my top priorities, in that order; yet it’s my clients who teach me daily how to be a good agent and I’m grateful for their trust placed in me. Best of all, many of them are also my friends and mentors, and they inspire me to keep doing what I do every day. When not with my family or working, I enjoy volunteering for a number of organizations in town for which I’m passionate, among them, The Senior Olympics, The Special Olympics, The Kidney Foundation, Room in the Inn and many more. LET’S TALK MAY 2021 3

CONTENTS  The History of Mother’s Day  Let’s Talk Health!

7 Health Benefits of Sunshine

 Agent Spotlight: Doll Sandridge

 Let’s Talk Medicare! 10 Things To Know

 ON THE COVER

Senior Spotlight At Home with Sonia Young, Chattanooga’s “Purple Lady” & Her Giraffes

 The Classroom of Life:

To “Mothers,” with Love

 Mother’s Day Recipe:

Strawberry Chicken Salad

4 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021

 Giving Back through

the Gift of Music with Pastor Michael Prettyman and GraceWorks

 Let’s Talk Money!

with True North Advisors

 Business Spotlight

Fashion for Mothers & Daughters Irma Marie Boutique

 Senior Living Community

Feature Coming Home to Morning Pointe (and to a gift from Coca-Cola!)

 Sudoku  Chattanooga Lookouts Baseball Game Schedule

 Mind the Gap PUBLISHER: Misty Bolt www.medicaremisty.com PRODUCER: Sheri Kamp, The Good Content Agency PHOTOGRAPHER (Sonia Young and Irma Marie Boutique) Lexie Bess Bess pics Copyright© Medicare Misty 2021

THE VIEWS AND COMMENTS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHORS ARE NOT ALWAYS THAT OF OUR EDITORS OR PUBLISHERS. WHILE EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION IN THE PUBLICATION, MEDICARE MISTY’S LET’S TALK ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMISSIONS OR RESULTANT CONSEQUENCES, INCLUDING ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE ARISING FROM THE RELIANCE ON INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION. REPRODUCTION OF ANY PART OF THIS MAGAZINE WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED. MEDICARE HAS NEITHER ENDORSED NOR REVIEWED THIS INFORMATION. NOT CONNECTED OR AFFILIATED WITH ANY UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT OR STATE AGENCY. LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 5

The History of Mother’s Day In the years before the Civil War, Ann Reeves Jarvis of West Virginia helped start “Mothers’ Day Work elebrations of mothers and Clubs” to teach local women how motherhood can be traced to properly care for their children. These clubs later became a uniback to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who held festivals fying force in a region of the counin honor of the mother goddesses try still divided over the Civil War. Rhea and Cybele, but the clearest In 1868 Jarvis organized “Mothers’ modern precedent for Mother’s Friendship Day,” at which mothers Day is the early Christian festival gathered with former Union and Confederate soldiers to promote known as “Mothering Sunday.” Once a major tradition in the reconciliation. Another precursor to Mother’s United Kingdom and parts of Europe, this celebration fell on the Day came from the abolitionist fourth Sunday in Lent and was and suffragette Julia Ward Howe. originally seen as a time when In 1870 Howe wrote the “Mother’s the faithful would return to their Day Proclamation,” a call to action “mother church”—the main that asked mothers to unite in prochurch in the vicinity of their moting world peace. In 1873 Howe campaigned for a “Mother’s Peace home—for a special service. Over time the Mothering Sun- Day” to be celebrated every June 2. Other early Mother’s Day piday tradition shifted into a more secular holiday, and children oneers include Juliet Calhoun would present their mothers with Blakely, a temperance activist who flowers and other tokens of ap- inspired a local Mother’s Day in Alpreciation. This custom eventually bion, Michigan, in the 1870s. The faded in popularity before merg- duo of Mary Towles Sasseen and ing with the American Mother’s Frank Hering, meanwhile, both worked to organize a Mothers’ Day Day in the 1930s and 1940s. in the late 19th and early 20th cenAnn Reeves Jarvis and Julia Ward turies. Some have even called Hering “the father of Mothers’ Day.” Howe The origins of Mother’s Day as celebrated in the United States Anna Jarvis The official Mother’s Day holidate back to the 19th century.

6 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021

day arose in the 1900s as a result of the efforts of Anna Jarvis, daughter of Ann Reeves Jarvis. Following her mother’s 1905 death, Anna Jarvis conceived of Mother’s Day as a way of honoring the sacrifices mothers made for their children. After gaining financial backing from a Philadelphia department store owner named John Wanamaker, in May 1908 she organized the first official Mother’s Day celebration at a Methodist church in Grafton, West Virginia. That same day also saw thousands of people attend a Mother’s Day event at one of Wanamaker’s retail stores in Philadelphia. Following the success of her first Mother’s Day, Jarvis—who remained unmarried and childless her whole life—resolved to see her holiday added to the national calendar. Arguing that American holidays were biased toward male achievements, she started a massive letter writing campaign to newspapers and prominent politicians urging the adoption of a special day honoring motherhood. By 1912 many states, towns and churches had adopted Mother’s Day as an annual holiday, and Jarvis had established the Mother’s Day International Association to help promote her cause. Her persistence paid off in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson signed a measure officially establishing the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. Jarvis Decries Commercialized Mother’s Day Anna Jarvis had originally conceived of Mother’s Day as a day of personal celebration between

mothers and families. Her version of the day involved wearing a white carnation as a badge and visiting one’s mother or attending church services. But once Mother’s Day became a national holiday, it was not long before florists, card companies and other merchants capitalized on its popularity. While Jarvis had initially worked with the floral industry to help raise Mother’s Day’s profile, by 1920 she had become disgusted with how the holiday had been commercialized. She outwardly denounced the transformation and urged people to stop buying Mother’s Day flowers, cards and candies. Jarvis eventually resorted to an open campaign against Mother’s Day profiteers, speaking out against confectioners, florists and even charities. She also launched countless lawsuits against groups that had used the name “Mother’s Day,” eventually spending most of her personal wealth in legal fees. By the time of her death in 1948 Jarvis had disowned the holiday altogether, and even actively lobbied the government to see it removed from the American calendar. Mother’s Day Around the World While versions of Mother’s Day are celebrated worldwide, traditions vary depending on the country. In Thailand, for example, Mother’s Day is always celebrated in August on the birthday of the current queen, Sirikit. (Source: The History Channel and History.com) LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 7

7 Health Benefits of Sunlight Do you know how important it is vents brittle, thin, or misshapen to get a little sunshine? bones, soaking in sun may be just what the doctor ordered.. Scientifically, sunshine has a lot of 4. HELPS KEEP THE WEIGHT OFF benefits for our bodies. Here are Getting outside for 30 minutes seven great reasons to get outside sometime between 8 a.m. and and soak in the sun. noon has been linked to weight loss. 1. IMPROVES YOUR SLEEP 5. STRENGTHENS YOUR IMYour body creates a hormone MUNE SYSTEM called melatonin that is critical to Vitamin D is also critical for your helping you sleep. Because your immune system, and with consisbody starts producing it when tent exposure to sunlight, you can it’s dark, you usually start to feel help strengthen it. A healthy imsleepy two hours after the sun mune system can help reduce the sets, which is one of the reasons risk of illness, infections, some canour bodies naturally stay up later cers, and mortality after surgery. in the summer. 6. FIGHTS OFF DEPRESSION 2. REDUCES STRESS It’s not just in your head; there’s a Melatonin also lowers stress reac- scientific reason being in the suntivity and being outside will help shine improves your mood. Sunyour body naturally regulate mela- shine boosts your body’s level of tonin, which can help reduce your serotonin, which is a chemical that stress level. Additionally, because improves your mood and helps you’re often doing something ac- you stay calm and focused. tive when you’re outside (walking, 7. CAN GIVE YOU A LONGER LIFE playing, etc.), that extra exercise A study that followed 30,000 Swedalso helps to lower stress. ish women revealed that those who 3. MAINTAINS STRONG BONES spent more time in the sun lived six One of the best (and easiest) ways months to two years longer than to get vitamin D is by being out- those with less sun exposure. More side. Our bodies produce vitamin research needs to be done in this D when exposed to sunlight— area, but it’s something scientists about 15 minutes in the sun a day are continuing to study. is adequate if you’re fair skinned. And since Vitamin D helps your Source: Selecthealth.org body maintain calcium and pre- by Amberlee Lovell Peterson 8 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021

Agent Spotlight: DOLL SANDRIDGE

or Doll Sandridge, her job as a Medicare agent comes naturally. She and Misty Bolt became friends before Doll decided to take a leap of faith and go to work for her a few years ago. According to Doll, Misty has been a loyal mentor and coach, bringing her up in the business, and “teaching (me) everything I know.” It’s to Misty that Doll attributes her success. Growing up in Chattanooga, Doll developed a love and respect for seniors at an early age. She was raised by her grandparents. “Having them as role models was invaluable to me,” she said. “And in raising my son now, they are still very much involved in my life and his. I wish all people would realize what a blessing and resource our seniors are to us, and not just those in our family. All of my clients and senior friends enrich my life and make going to “work” everyday rewarding. Among her clients, she is known for her customer service and for always going the extra mile to be sure their needs are met. In fact, when Doll learned that a client-turnedfriend needed a kidney transplant, she decided to undergo testing to

Doll Sandridge see if she would be a match. Indeed, she was. With that news there was no stopping Doll from donating her kidney to her client and friend, who is healthy today. “I have so much admiration and respect for my clients,” says Doll, “they are wonderful people and always let me know how much they appreciate me. They know they can call or text me at any time with their questions or if I can be of help to them, whether it’s Medicare-related or otherwise,” she continued. “I love working with seniors; they quickly become my friends, not just my clients.”

Doll & Misty at the “Live & Let Live Ball,” an event they co-host annually with The Kidney Foundation. LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 9

Let’s Talk Medicare

The Top Ten Things You Need to Know about Medicare Today Hello friends, if you’re reading this there’s a good chance you’re eligible for Medicare coverage but may not be aware of the many options available to you or how to acquire optimum coverage for your specific needs. I’ve been in the business of helping individuals sort through this issue for more than a decade, and it’s something I do every day. Recently, Money.com published a well-written and accurate summary on what you need to know. Give it a quick-read, jot down notes or questions and if you like, contact me for a free consultation. There is never a charge to you for the consultation, and I guarantee you will leave feeling clear on how to make the most of Medicare’s offerings for you and yours. Sincerely, Misty Bolt 10 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021

Most retirees receive health insurance through Medicare, the federal government’s health insurance program for people age 65 and older. To maximize the value of the health plan, make sure to sign up at the correct time and take advantage of the free and low-cost services Medicare provides. Here’s what Medicare covers and how much you can expect to pay for benefits and services. What Is Medicare? Medicare is a government health insurance program for people age 65 and older. Medicare helps cover the costs of health emergencies and chronic conditions, but it can also be used to help maintain good health. Medicare beneficiaries have to pay premiums and a variety of other out-of-pocket costs, and must make decisions about their coverage options.

Let’s Talk Medicare What Does Medicare Part A Cover?

Medicare Part A covers hospital care and hospice. Part A will also pay for short-term stays at a skilled nursing facility if it follows a hospital stay of at least three days. Most retirees don’t pay a premium for Medicare Part A, but there is a $1,408 deductible in 2020 and additional charges for long hospital stays. What Does Medicare Part B Cover? Medicare Part B is medical insurance that pays for doctor’s visits and outpatient care. Part B provides a variety of free preventive services, such as an annual wellness doctor’s office visit, flu shot and screenings for certain conditions. Beneficiaries can go to any doctor, specialist or other health care provider that accepts Medicare and is taking on new patients. Most beneficiaries pay the standard Medicare Part B premium of $144.60 per month in 2020, but higher-income retirees pay more. “If your income is at least $87,000 or more, then you pay the income-related premium, which is indexed and rises with income,” says Tricia Neuman, director of the Program on Medicare Policy at the Kaiser Family Foundation. Medicare Part B has a $198 deductible in 2020, after which beneficiaries are generally responsible for 20% of the cost of most doctor’s services.

What Does Medicare Part C Cover? Medicare Part C or Medicare Advantage Plans are an alternative to original Medicare in which private insurance companies pay for Medicare-approved and sometimes other services, but with different prices and restrictions than original Medicare. You may be required to use doctors in the plan’s network and get a referral to see a specialist. What Does Medicare Part D Cover? Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage. Part D plans are private health insurance policies that follow rules set by Medicare. The premium for Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage varies depending on the plan you select. Plans can charge deductibles of up to $435 in 2020. What Does Medigap Cover? Retirees can purchase Medicare supplement insurance policies called Medigap to pay for original Medicare’s out-of-pocket costs and additional services Medicare doesn’t cover. Medigap policies typically cover the copays, coinsurance and deductibles of original Medicare in exchange for a monthly payment. It’s important to enroll in a Medigap plan during the sixmonth period that begins when you’re 65 or older and enrolled in Part B, you may not be able to buy a Medigap policy or could be charged significantly more. LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 11

Let’s Talk Medicare became eligible at 65.” If you delay Medicare enrollment because you or your spouse is still working at a job with group health insurMedicare doesn’t cover all of the ance, sign up within eight months health care services older people of leaving the employer or health are likely to need in retirement. plan to avoid the penalty. Medicare generally won’t pay for glasses and contact lenses or How Do You Sign Up the routine eye examinations to for Medicare? prescribe corrective lenses. Dental care and hearing aids are also Social Security beneficiaries are commonly needed services that often automatically enrolled in aren’t covered. Perhaps most sig- Medicare Parts A and B, with covnificantly, while short-term nurs- erage starting the month they turn ing home stays might be covered 65. If your birthday falls on the under specific circumstances, first of the month, coverage will Medicare does not pay for long- start at the beginning of the prior term care. month. Medicare cards are mailed out to most Social Security benefi When Should You Enroll ciaries three months before their in Medicare? 65th birthday, and Medicare Part B premiums are withheld from SoRetirees can first enroll in Medi- cial Security payments. However, care during a seven-month win- you will need to actively sign up if dow that begins three months be- you want prescription drug coverfore the month they turn 65. Sign age, a Medicare supplement poliup at the beginning of this period cy or a Medicare Advantage plan. if you want coverage to begin the month you reach age 65. If you FOR A FREE CONSULTATION miss the initial enrollment periON MEDICARE COVERAGE od, you can sign up between Jan. 1 and March 31 for coverage that will begin July 1, but you will be charged late enrollment penalties for as long as you have Medicare. “Late enrollment penalties from Medicare can be long-term,” says Help with enrollment and Anna Maria Chávez, executive more, contact Medicare vice president and chief growth Misty at 423-240-0794 officer at the National Council on or visit Aging. “You don’t want to have to worry about higher costs just www.socialsecurity.gov. because you didn’t act when you What Isn’t Covered by Medicare?

12 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021

Senior Spotlight At Home with SONIA YOUNG, Chattanooga’s

“Purple Lady” & Her Giraffes

Young’s beautiful purple giraffes to commemorate her bringing the real giraffes to the Chattanooga Zoo. They sit among her many treasures in her delightfully purple, stylish home. Photography Lexie Bess | Bess Pics

or this Mother’s Day issue of Let’s Talk! Magazine we chose Chattanooga’s very own “Purple Lady,” Sonia Young. To say that Sonia Young is an institution in Chattanooga would be quite the understatement. For decades, Young has been

The “Purple Lady,” Sonia Young.

known as a devoted activist in the community, and as a change-maker and philanthropist who gives “voice” to those who cannot speak for themselves, namely children and animals. Now in her late Continues LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 13

Senior Spotlight eighties, the former UTC Professor of Theatre is always developing some initiative, program or opportunity that will enhance the arts or culture in River City, and childrens’ access to it. Sonia’s affinity for the color purple and her choice to wear it always, embellish her home in it, and even drive a purple car earned her the title, “The Purple Lady.” But why the purple you might ask? According to Sonia, there is an obvious answer to that question. “You see, purple people are known to be imaginative, creative and artistic. We have a love for all things beautiful and magical, and are relentless in pursuing our ideas. (see photo, right inset) As a child she was imaginative and creative, always writing stories, plays, designing all the elements of the “stage” and casting family and friends, or sometimes imaginary friends, as cast members. In the 1980’s, Young took her play, “The Purple Princess,” to the stage of The Chattanooga Theatre Center, casting children in the roles she had created many years before, as a young girl. The debut of this play planted the seed for what would become Young’s campaign seeking corporate and private support to make Youth Theatre a vibrant and active program within the CTC. “I didn’t really think too much about it,” Young says. “It was obvious, not only to me, but to all stakeholders, that Youth Theatre was the next step for our theatre 14 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021

Purple Profile

community. I knew we needed to make something wonderful available to the kids, so I simply went to everyone I know - corporate, civic and private - and said how much can you give,” she explains.. “And so then that was that, and Youth Theatre has been a growing and essential part of theatre in our city ever since.” Put simply, when Sonia Young gets a “bee in her purple bonnet” for something, you best get on board or step aside. Stretching beyond her comfort zone to see a vision brought to life

Senior Spotlight

Purple Lady Christmas Ornament.

Purple Lady Statue sits among the many treasures and gifts from admirers.

isn’t really stretching at all for her; rather, stretching is her comfort zone. After graduating from Chattanooga High School she received a Bachelor of Arts from Tulane University before returning to Chattanooga to get a master’s degree from UTC. Through her efforts, tens of thousands of children have been able to experience and appreciate the beauty and inspiration that are provided through arts. Among her many contributions to the city, was her driving force behind the multi-million dollar campaign to bring the giraffe exhibit to the Chattanooga Zoo, an exhibit which continues to thrive today. She spearheaded the raising of the nearly $15 million to build the Chattanooga Theatre Centre; she was an integral player in raising funds for the

Young’s dining room with her vintage purple glass chandelier is stunning.

Chattanooga Public Library; she conceived of StarNight, the annual black tie fundraiser that benefits Siskin Children’s Institute, and chaired the event in its first three years.Young has also served on the boards of Chattanooga Symphony and Opera, Allied Arts (ArtsBuild), Chattanooga Opera Association, Tennessee River Gorge Trust, Chattanooga Zoo, The Chattanooga Ballet, McKamey Animal Care Trust, Girls Inc., Children’s Hospital Foundation and Kids on the Block, and The William L. Montague Jr. Performing Arts Fund, to name a few. Young was recognized as a Tennessee Woman of Distinction (was 2007) and as the 2017 recipient of the Ruth Holmberg Arts Leadership Award. Young continues to lecture at UTC and has written for a variety of city papers for more than 25 years. LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 15

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The Classroom of Life

To “ Mothers,” With Love Author: Phyllis Nicholson

n thinking about years at First BapMother’s Day, I tist Church, Chatknow as a widow, tanooga. Never did it can be an increda week pass that ibly difficult time. she wasn’t “mothThere are cards, ering” young chilgifts, flowers and dren, as well as family gatherings their parents, none all in the air. While of whom were her the day can bring own. Whether givjoy to so many, ing advice, babysitand rightfully so, ting in their homes, what comes to or calming their mind for me are crying child so they the empty nesters, could attend worsingle mothers, ship or study, parand parents of any ents came to rely age who have lost on the love and Phyllis with Beloved Mother a child. During my light she spread. Figure, Benora Holder tenure as a Singles Many people, (age 103 in photo). Director at a loyal like Benora, can church, I often heard from widows, be found working tirelessly in and divorcees, singles, and bereaved around our community. Teachers, parents that this is one of the sad- daycare workers, nannies and othdest times of the year. It certainly ers who care for children, often can be, and if you find that to be call them “their own!” You don’t true for you, I want to challenge have to be employed to make an you to think in a different direction impact on families around you. this year, as we focus on others. Volunteering is a great way to There is a saying that the more connect to others and to carry you give, the more you receive. I your “parental love” to many who certainly can testify to that as I have would benefit. Add to that, Chattried to make myself get out and do tanooga offers so much in the way for others instead of feeling sorry of service and giving back to the for myself. I must add, that is not al- community. Tennessee is the Volways easy. But oh, what a blessing! unteer state for a reason! Below Benora Holder was a great example are a few organizations where I of “maternal love” expressed in her personally can say that I received work as a nursery worker of fifty more of a blessing than I gave. LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 17

The Classroom of Life 1. Salvation Army……is always looking for volunteers to give back to those in need in and around Chattanooga. While serving on the Auxiliary Board, we assisted seniors in low-income housing, at Christmas with parties and stockings and Angel Tree in collecting gifts. How about Madi Bra? Doesn’t that sound like fun?

5. Tutoring or working with children with needs…..Many schools have volunteers to read to the children or provide tutoring as needed. A great way to give back to our future leaders! 6. Finding an elderly person to go see regularly and giving a hug…… As a Children’s Minister for many years, there were many older individuals who loved seeing you on a regular basis. We would have “Hug Day” at our church for our preschoolers to go around and give hugs and kisses around the church.

2. Cry for the Broken…… An organization that ministers to women involved in sexual exploitation in Chattanooga. There are ways to volunteer, give monetarily, or write cards of encouragement to these girls who so badly need love and support in achieving sobri- 7. Going to Assisted Livings or ety-based living. Nursing Homes……to give a program or sing to the residents. A 3. Christian Women Job Corp…… great way to share a special time help mentor ladies that are with- with others. out hope for the future. They need job skills, high school diploma There are so many things that preparation, and job readiness. we can do to make life more A great way to give back to our meaningful for ourselves and othcommunity and to help transform ers, versus focusing on what we young women into God’s perfect do not have. I think it is all in our plan. There is also a clothes closet mind and heart. Once we accept where there are many needs for that things didn’t go as planned, the donation and organization of we need to be ready to let go of clothes, or just helping the girls the past and look for the future select appropriate clothes for a with a newness and freshness job interview or job. that,I can tell you, will bring you great joy! 4. Homeless Community at a loThe Giving Tree by Shel Slivercal church or within the city…... stein is a favorite parable of mine. volunteering to feed, make mats, The story follows the life of a boy blankets, donating clothes. There from his childhood through his is also need to help by donating elder years-and the giving tree with your time or money at the lo- that provided for him. As a boy, it cal food bank or your favorite faith provided him with a place to play, based organization. climb, eat apples, and rest. As a 18 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021

The Classroom of Life young man, the tree provided him with apples to sell when he needed the money. As an adult, the tree provided him with branches for lumber to build a house. As an older man, the tree provided him with her trunk so he could make a boat and sail away from his problems. The tree is now left with only a stump. As an elderly man he returns to the tree. The tree sighed and said, “I wish I could give you something…. but I have nothing left. I am so sorry.” All I need now said the man is a quiet place to sit and rest. I am very tired. Well, the tree said he could take care of that. “An old stump is good for sitting and resting, sit down and rest and be happy.” And they were both happy. There may be things we use to do that we feel we are inadequate to do today, but there are always seeds for growth in other areas of our life that we might share. The well-tended and aged tree produces the most vibrant blossoms and the sweetest fruit. There is always the gift that gives and gives, never expecting anything in return. In closing, several years ago, Dayspring Cards put out a prayer written by Holley Gerth based on 1 Corinthians 13. I’ve paraphrased it below, and believe it can be of encouragement around Mother’s Day. Because love is patient…. help me to be slow to judge, but quick to listen. Because love is kind…… help my

words to be gentle and kind. My actions thoughtful and kind Because love does not envy or boast…. help me to have a humble heart and see the good in others. Because love is not rude or self-seeking…. help me speak words that are kind and not hurtful. Because love is not easily angered and keeps no record of wrongs…. help me forgive others. Because love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth…help me stand for what is right. Because love protects and always trusts…help me to be a refuge for those around me. Because love always perseveres…. help my heart continually to beat with love for You and others. My deceased husband who was an after-dinner speaker had the philosophy throughout his presentations that we need to live well, laugh often, and love much. As scripture tells us, the greatest of these is love. May we do that every day as we share ourselves with others, as Benora did so well. On this and each Mother’s Day, she is greatly missed by many. Let go of the past and embrace the present with a renewed spirit that I guarantee will bring you great joy! In loving memory of Phyllis’ mother, Hazel Mason Edmonds and Benora Holder. LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 19

STRAWBERRY

Chicken

Salad

Strawberry Chicken Salad is light and fruity, with crunchy toasted pecans and a creamy, honeykissed, poppy seed dressing that’s been lightened up with Greek yogurt! INGREDIENTS 2/3 cup Greek yogurt 1/3 cup mayonnaise 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup honey Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste 1 1/2 pounds diced chicken about 4 cups 1 cup chopped toasted pecans 2 cups diced strawberries 1 to 2 teaspoons poppy seeds

INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use, for up to two days. 2. To the bowl of dressing, add diced chicken, toasted pecans, diced strawberries, and poppy seeds. Carefully stir until all ingredients are evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to chill and allow the flavors to blend. Strawberry Chicken Salad https://www. fivehearthome.com/strawberry-poppy-seed-chicken-salad-greek-yogurt-recipe/ All images & text copyright of Five Heart Home.

The white cross that stands high above GraceWorks Church at 6445 Lee Highway.

Phyllis Nicholson Author

Giving Back through the Gift of Music Recently I had the privilege Morning Pointe of East Hamto interview a young man ilton, Morning Pointe of who has spent his entire Hixson, The Lantern at Pastor life sharing memories Michael Prettyman Morning Pointe, Hickthrough music to se- Takes His Singing ory Valley Retirement niors. Michael PrettyCommunity, Elmcroft man, one of the pastors on the Road in of Hamilton Place, Elat Grace Works Chat- Response to the mcroft of Shallowford, tanooga, does just that Pandemic. Creekside at Shallowford, week by week. He takes a The Terrace at Mountain group from the church to sever- Creek, Garden Plaza at Greenbrier al assisted livings in the area and Cove, and Life Care of East Ridge. they have a ball. Residents request As a young child of only five their favorites to sing and the fun or six, Michael went with his dad, begins! Pat Vaugh, along with Chip who was a pastor, each week to and Judy Liner, help make each the local nursing home in the area week a success. Of course COVID where he grew up and watched his 19 has played havoc with this dad minister to the seniors there. ministry but things are improv- He can remember singing to them ing and life is getting back to nor- at an early age and how much mal. At present they are going they loved him being there. He reweekly or at least monthly to: membered going to the cafeteria Morning Pointe Hamilton Place, and eating Jell-o (all colors). It was LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 21

Pastor Michael Prettyman sings with a crowd of residents during a regular visit to Morning Pointe.

instilled in him to give back. He didn’t think about it at the time, but now he can see how those in the nursing homes loved seeing the children come in. The residents love to get hugs, just sit, and watch the children. Many of them have not seen their own relatives or especially children in such a long time. So making things special to them has been a passion for Michael. Just sitting and having a short conversation, giving a hand, or a smile means more to them than anything you can give materially. As soon as Michael became one of the pastors at GraceWorks, someone called and asked him to sing. He immediately said yes and things quickly opened up for the church. He and Pat Vaughn have worked together to help get the entire church involved. The In-Home Ministry chaired by Chip and Judy make it easy for people to be a part of this. They go, take gifts, send cards, and do things to help make folks’ lives sweeter as the days go by. Michael noticed that the workers in these facilities enjoy this time as well for they see their patients having fun, singing, and interacting in ways they 22 LET’S TALK SPRING 2021

don’t experience on a daily who needs help, the inforbasis. The other ministries mation below might help of the church also are inyou understand a bit more. volved such as the Children’s You can be on a team or Ministry volunteers takjust share life with othing cards, presenting ers. You never know, musicals, etc. and also you might reunite when appropriate with someone from taking a bus to bring the past or see an them to the church old neighbor. This to enjoy an event indeed will bless or outing. Just beyour life. They also ing a part means go to members’ so much when Michael Prettyman homes to visit, take life has changed gifts, and sing. and you no longer can do the If interested, go to Facebook things you loved to do. Michael and you will see the weekly visits, dreams of a bus ministry where Trivia, and also the messages on individuals can be brought weekly Sunday mornings led by our Pasto the church and GraceWorks can tors Tony Leonard and Bill Owens. be their church. Also, the website is graceworkAs we went through the quar- schatt.com for more information. antine this past year and ChristGraceWorks hopes to return mas and New Year’s fell into these to normal one day soon and have times, Michael was called by events or concerts. “Giving to othMorning Pointe Hamilton Place ers is just what we do”, commentand asked if he could just go stop ed Michael, “It is a commandment by each resident’s door to sing. from our Lord and Savior.” What a blessing each received Whether being a part of the that night. A smile and a song said Alzheimer’s Walk, going to assistit all! He has been their Christmas, ed living facilities, or visiting the Easter, Valentines Day, etc during homebound, GraceWorks takes these times. They might not be this mission seriously. As seen able to go out but Michael and his below, they just assisted with the group have become their family. Reopening of Morning Point on This passion of a child has now Shallowford. become a blessing for an entire Recently, Ruth Lowery at this lochurch. He commented that each cation said, “We can’t wait for the time he goes in he feels liberated third Wednesday of each month like those who had been in con- for Michael and Pat to come sing. finement in concentration camps. It’s just like getting to go to church Time is something that can be lost and is such a blessing.” and never reclaimed so each moMichael Prettyman is the ment is precious. Associate Pastor of GraceWorks If you are interested in this C h u r c h , 6 4 4 5 L e e H w y, ministry or have a loved one C h a t t a nooga, Tn. 37421 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 23

Let’s Talk Money

Check These Financial To-Do’s off Your Spring Cleaning List Andy Bailey, True North Advisors AAMS®, CFP® Managing Partner, Financial Advisor, RJFS

ark your calendar with important deadlines for taxes, savings account contributions and required minimum distributions. Check-in on your accounts, organize important documents and review your credit report. Dates to Remember May 17: Tax day – the deadline to file your return and pay taxes or request an extension. Also, first quarter estimated tax payments are due, if required. May 17: Last day to contribute to traditional and Roth IRAs or health savings accounts for 2020. Things to Do Read up on RMDs: If over 72, take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from your IRAs and qualified plans. You must begin RMDs by April 1 the year after you turn 72. Subsequent distributions must be taken by Dec. 31 each year. That means if you reached 72 during 2020, and you delayed your 2020 initial RMD until April 1, 2021, you still have to take your 2021 RMD before Dec. 31, 2021. For more information, go to irs.gov/rmd. Go house hunting: It’s homebuying season. If

24 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021

Let’s Talk Money you’re considering buying or refinancing a home, keep an eye on mortgage rates and plan to review the terms with your advisor as such a major purchase will have an effect on your financial plan. Mull over an extension: If applicable – particularly if you hold securities subject to income reallocation – ask your tax advisor if filing an extension with the IRS would be beneficial. Restore balance to your portfolio: Similar to your ret i re m e n t accounts, consider a seasonal review of your portfolio to ensure your allocation is optimal for your objectives.

road bikes roll in. Just in time for pleasant cycling weather. Conduct a cash-flow checkup: Make sure all expenses are considered, and that you’re still allocating enough to your savings, retirement and “rainy day” accounts. Tidy up: Create a spring cleaning ritual and let go of the clutter consuming space in your home. Giving items away offers its own benefits – just remember to get a qualified appraisal for more valuable donations. Inspect y o u r credit report: Making a habit of checking your credit report at least once a year can help you detect and dispute errors.

Talk to your advisor to make sure Gear up: After the New Year’s fit- you don’t miss any important finess craze has subsided, spring is nancial planning dates in the coma great time to find deals on ex- ing months. ercise equipment. That means everything from tech to tennis Source: Raymond James, True shoes, according to Wisebread. North Advisors, Retirement and It’s also when deals on last year’s Longevity LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 25

26 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021

Business Spotlight

Photography Lexie Bess | Bess Pics

Spring color abounds at Irma Marie.

Fashion for Mothers & Daughters Irma Marie Boutique by Sheri Kamp

Victoria Cassel (partner) and Janet Miller (owner).

he story of Irma Marie Designer Apparel, and how it came to be, sounds like something out of a classic story book. It all begin in New York, where a young girl being raised by her seamstress mother, Marie, and aunt, Irma, falls in love with...you guessed it, fashion. While other girls were playing “tea party,” young Janet Miller was busy running her “fabric store.” Nearby her mother and aunt’s time was in high demand, as they ran their custom tailoring business out of the home. With no abundance of toys around, imaginative play Continues LET’S TALK SPRING 2021 27

Business Spotlight was divinely accessible. On any day you could find her pretending to cut fabric (because cutting her mother’s fabrics, would mean severe consequences), running the cash register, entertaining imaginary customers with previews of the latest styles, and last but not least, doing what every smart storekeeper does, keeping the books. So six years ago when Miller opened her very own real boutique, named appropriately after her mother and aunt, it was the culmination of years of planning and preparing to use her natu-

ral talents and acquired business acumen. Her entrepreneurial leap from homemaker to boutique owner was a natural transition… one that had been in the works since childhood. At the time, Miller called on her son’s girlfriend, now wife, Victoria, to jump in to help manage the day-to-day operations. Victoria quickly became a permanent fixture at Irma Marie, and the two say they now enjoy an intuitive and trust-filled dynamic that makes them a strong business pair. Together, they are known for offering their clientele

Janet helps customer Darlene Horne make spring selections.

Pinning for a hem.

28 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021

Business Spotlight

Irma Marie in lights.

unparalleled customer service, personal shopping opportunities (by appointment or after hours if needed), and seeing to their every need - from assisting them by phone, buying for them when at market, to making minor alterations in-store (thanks to Janet’s lifelong skills and an eye for a “good fit.” ) “We love our customers, and we’re told by our customers that they love us, too,” says Miller. “That is the absolute best part of what we do. Helping women find something that makes them feel beautiful, and that they know is a quality piece,” she added. “We have something for women of all ages,” added Victoria. “Our customers trust us and enjoy the personal at-

tention we give them,” she continued. “We believe we make shopping personal and easy, even fun, an experience women don’t easily find.” LOCATIONS Chattanooga, 8174 East Brainerd Road - Suite 100 Dalton, located in The Mill, 825 Chattanooga Ave. Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 11-6 and Saturdays, 10-5 Shop online at irmamarie.com

or call 423-800-3504 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 29

How To Know If You’re Ready To Retire Eric Brotman, Forbes.com

Retiring is a huge life event, and it isn’t one that comes with many do-overs. You have to get it right the first time Luckily, there are ways to prepare for retirement—and even practice it—to help ensure you’re ready when the day comes. What to do first A few years before you plan to retire, have a practice run. If you have a retirement plan that gives you a clear picture of how much money you’ll have to live on annually, spend a full year to two years living only on that amount. If you don’t, your first step is to meet with a financial advisor to get sense of your retirement income estimate. If you can live comfortably on the decided amount, that’s great. If not, it’s better to know that now rather than later, and it’s time to devise a plan to increase your future income. Have a timeline for your decisions Do you know when you must make certain retirement-related decisions? Do you even know what decisions you’ll need to make? Having a clear idea of these decisions and a timeline to make them will reduce your stress and make retirement a smoother event. 30 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021

Pre-retirement decisions Before you retire, you’ll need to determine if you have any debts that need to be refinanced. It’s hard to refinance mortgages or other loans when you don’t have demonstrable income, so do this long before you give notice at work. You’ll also need to decide how you’ll handle long-term care expenses and if you want to use long term care insurance for some of those potential costs. Applying for this insurance should ideally be done ten years prior to retiring, and three to five years before is basically the last chance for it to be affordable. Retirement day decisions Retiring likely means losing your employer-sponsored benefits, so you’ll need to make decisions about health insurance. If you’re retiring at or after age 65, then you can seamlessly transition into Medicare. Make sure you remember to enroll in Medicare Part A 60 to 90 days before your 65th birthday whether you’re planning to retire

or not. For Part B, you can wait to enroll until after your retirement as long as you’re at least 65 years old. You can learn more about Medicare in this episode of my podcast. If you’re retiring after age 63 ½, you can use COBRA provisions to continue your employer health plan for up to 18 months until you’re eligible for Medicare. However, if you’re retiring earlier than that, you’ll either need to join your spouse’s health plan or to use the health insurance exchange in your home state. If you’re one of the fortunate few people who will still be receiving a pension, you’ll need to decide how you’d like to receive your benefit. You will likely be given the option to maximize your benefit as a single person—meaning it expires after your death—or a few options on how you’d like a spouse to receive income from your pension should he or she outlive you. Post-retirement decisions Social Security is a very complex benefit, and timing your benefit claim is an important decision you’ll need to make. You and your spouse must determine whether to claim immediately at age 62 or to wait until full retirement age or even There’s a lot to consider when you’re thinking about retiring. Starting to make decisions and prepare for the life change early will help you be successful in your retirement.

age 70 to begin receiving benefits. The decisions you and your spouse make can greatly impact how much money you’re eligible to receive during your lifetimes and during a period of widowhood for either of you. While I could go on and on about this, I’ll let those interested read more in this article I published on the topic. You’ll also want to review your current insurance coverages to see where you can save money. Since you’re no longer commuting to work, you may be able to lower your car insurance premium. If you’re paying for disability insurance, you’ll no longer need it and can let it expire. Lastly, if you have term life insurance, you may no longer need the extra death benefits and can consider discontinuing the coverage after claiming your Social Security and pension income. The most important step The most important thing to do before you retire is make sure you have a substantial nest egg you’ve built up over the years. You don’t know what the future will hold, and having access to capital—especially funds not subject to market volatility—is vital to a successful retirement.

THE LESSON

Retirement is the one thing you cannot borrow money to accomplish, so make sure you’re able to live off the income you’ll have. Returning to work out of necessity after you’ve started your retirement is not only the opposite of what you’ll want to do, but it can also be incredibly difficult to do so. LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 31

Senior Community Spotlight

Coming Home to Morning Pointe with Mrs. Halie Forstner by Sheri Kamp

Meet Mrs. Halie Forstner, an extraordinary example of strength and humility to so many. She meets me with a warm smile in her eyes, as we settle for a brief time together to discuss her recent milestone of turning 110, and what life at Morning Pointe is like after more than thirty years of living alone, and prior to that with her husband of many decades. Me: So what are your thoughts on the pandemic, the mandates and now, the vaccination becoming available?. I asked her what she thought about the pandemic, the masks and mandates, and about the vaccination. Ms. Forstner: “Well, you know, we have to be smart. I’ve lived through other pandemics and I’ve seen many people die as a Queen Halie takes a sip of Coca-Cola result.” She went on, “when I at her 110th birthday bash. was very young, my mother put me in a wagon and took me from into Morning Pointe after so our home on the Georgia side many years on your own? of Sand Mountain to Chattanooga to get vaccinated against the Ms. Forstner: “Well, giving up livSpanish Flu of 1918. I remember ing by yourself is not an easy thing it well.. I chose to get vaccinat- to do. My husband, Charles Forsted for Covid-19 recently, thanks ner, died in 1990, so that was 31 to the people here at Morning years ago. I got along fine on my own during those years, and had Pointe making that available.” no complaints,” she continues. Me: Why did you decide to move “I think as I’ve grown older my 32 LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021

Senior Community Spotlight

Halie Forstner with members of her Morning Pointe family and friends. friends would express concern for me from time to time. It was just time for me to move to a safe place, where I could be surrounded by a community of people. So here I am, at this beautiful place!”

with a 16-year-old girl teaching all the kids of many ages. My mother would have no part of that, so she saw to it that was able to attend Chattanooga High School (now called the Chattanooga School for the Arts of Sciences).

Me: What do you like most about Morning Pointe and what do you Ms. Forstner is known throughout miss most about living alone? the Chattanooga community for her sharp mind, historic knowlMs. Forstner: “The best part about edge, and, of course, her age. living here is the people. The staff She graduated from Chattanooga - they are just wonderful people! High School in 1930. In 2016, Ms. And I can’t really think of anything I Forstner was named an honorary miss, but I can tell you what I don’t graduate of the University of Tenmiss - cooking,” she exclaims. “The nessee at Chattanooga and was food here is delicious.” recognized by state legislators and then-Governor Bill Haslam. Me: Can you tell me about what life was like for you growing up? Just a few weeks after moving into Morning Pointe, she turned Ms. Forstner: My mother was 110 years old. The weekend of a farmer and my mother cared March 20th, the leadership and for the house, for me and the community of Morning Pointe, many hands who helped us on along with friends from Lookthe farm. At that time there was Continues a small school on Sand Mountain LET’S TALK! SPRING 2021 33

Senior Community Spotlight

Main Entry to Morning Pointe of Chattanooga, Shallowford Road. out Valley Presbyterian Church, threw her a “big birthday party,” she said. A celebratory lunch, plenty of bottle Coca-Cola (her favorite drink) and a beautiful cake set the table. After lunch, the day was capped off with a birthday parade through the portico as she watched and waved to passers-by. Clowns, antique cars from different decades, and plenty of friends and well-wishers drove through with “Happy Birthday” signs and cards for her. Bagpipers from Alhambra Shriners Highlander Pipes and Drums played beautiful hymns and songs. All in all, it was a birthday celebration fit for a queen—Morning Pointe’s queen, Ms. Halie Forstner. According to Morning Pointe of Chattanooga executive director Cody Harvey, since Halie moved in 34 LET’S TALK SPRING 2021

last January 2021, she has been an inspiration to everyone there. “She’s an example to all of us on how to age gracefully, and is still quite active at 110! You will see her out and about, visiting with other residents from time to time. It is really quite something!” Morning Pointe of Chattanooga at Shallowford is one of six local assisted living and Alzheimer’s memory care communities in the Chattanooga area owned and operated by Morning Pointe Senior Living, founded in 1996 by Greg A. Vital and J. Franklin Farrow. The Lantern Alzheimer’s Center of Excellence at 7620 Shallowford Road is currently under reconstruction and is scheduled to open Summer 2021. For more information, visit www.morningpointe.com.

SUDOKU PUZZLES! SUDOKU 1

Sudoku is easy to play and the rules are simple.

SUDOKU 2

Fill in the blanks so that each row, each column, and each of the nine 3x3 grids contain one instance of each of the numbers 1 through 9. (Answer Keys on Page 39)

LET’S TALK SPRING 2021 35

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Articles inside

Giving Back through the Gift of Music

Irma Marie Designer Apparel