Senior Living News, October 2025

Legacy at Savannah Quarters Newsletter

October 2025
Germany, Around the World with Atlas

Around the world with Atlas - October 2025 - Germany
Halloween Special

Resident´s Birthdays

Happy Birthday to YOU!
10/05 Joyce S.
10/10 Dolores S.
10/11 Linda E.
10/12 Ruth M.
10/20 Althair M.
10/20 Monnie P.
10/22 Loren H.
10/23 Robert B.
10/29 Doris T.

Celebrating October

1: National Homemade Cookies Day
3: World Smile Day
14: National Dessert Day
17: Wear Pink Day
21: National Apple Day
30: National Candy Corn Day
31: Halloween

Events Spotlight

Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Saturday, October 25th beginning at 9am in Daffin Park in Savannah, Ga.
We are proud to be a sponsor and a team that will be walking during this event. We’d love for you to join us and or support our LegacySQ team and the cause!

Please see the flyer for more details or emailsnix@legacysavannahquarters.com.

Royal Arms of the Kingdom of Scotland

“Or, a lion rampant Gules armed and langued Azure within a double tressure flory counter-flory of the second”, meaning a red lion with blue tongue and claws on a yellow field and surrounded by a red double royal tressure flory counter-flory device.

German Music Legacy

Alexa, play Beethoven’s Symphony Number 9, Opus 125, Second Movement, Molto Vivace.

The second movement of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony bursts with restless energy and rhythmic drive. Marked Molto Vivace, it contrasts the solemn grandeur of the opening with a lively scherzo full of syncopated pulses and dramatic turns. By the time he composed this masterpiece (1822–1824), Beethoven was almost completely deaf, yet his imagination transcended silence, giving the world music of unparalleled vitality. The scherzo’s bold rhythms and jubilant spirit showcase Beethoven’s genius for combining structure and passion, paving the way for the symphony’s monumental choral finale.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Early Detection Saves Lives

Understanding the Importance of Screening for Men and Women

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, promote education, and support early detection. While most people associate breast cancer with women, men can also develop the disease, and recognizing this fact is essential for saving lives.

According to the American Cancer Society, the earlier breast cancer is detected, the higher the survival rate. In fact, when caught in its early stages, the five-year survival rate can be as high as 99%. That’s why knowing the signs, performing regular self-checks, and scheduling recommended screenings are all vital steps toward prevention and early treatment.

🩺 Who Should Be Screened and When

For Women:
Ages 20 to 39: Clinical breast exams every 3 years.
Ages 40 and older: Annual mammograms and yearly clinical exams.
Women with a family history or genetic risk may need earlier or more frequent screenings.

For Men:
Though rare, breast cancer in men typically appears between ages 60 and 70. Men with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, or a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, are at higher risk. Any changes in the chest area should be reported to a doctor.

🧠 How to Perform a Self-Exam

Doing regular self-exams helps you notice changes in your body early. Here’s how:

In the Shower or Lying Down:

  • Use the pads of your fingers in a circular motion.
  • Cover the entire breast, chest, and underarm area.
  • Apply light, medium, and firm pressure.
  • In Front of a Mirror:
  • Stand with arms at your sides, then raised.
  • Look for changes in shape, size, skin texture, dimpling, or nipple appearance.

When to Check:

Women: 3–5 days after your period starts.
Men and postmenopausal women: Choose the same day each month.

⚠ Signs to Watch For

  • A lump or thickening
  • Swelling, dimpling, or puckering
  • Redness, scaliness, or irritation
  • Nipple discharge, pain, or inversion
  • Unexplained breast or chest pain

While not every lump is cancer, any new or unusual symptom should be checked by a healthcare provider as soon as possible.

💗 Take Charge of Your Health

Breast cancer affects us all—directly or indirectly. This October, take time to learn, act, and share. Early detection saves lives. Start with yourself and encourage others to do the same.

Welcome to Germany
Around the World with Atlas

Germany’s history stretches back to ancient tribes such as the Saxons, Franks, and Goths, whose resilience left a mark on Europe’s foundations. From the crowning of Charlemagne in 800 AD to the rise of the Holy Roman Empire under Otto I, the medieval period saw the growth of a diverse cultural and political landscape. Moments of transformation, like Martin Luther’s Protestant Reformation, sparked new ideas that influenced the world far beyond Germany’s borders.

In the centuries that followed, the rise of Prussia and the eventual German unification in 1871 brought together a patchwork of regions into a modern and power nation.

Though the 20th century was marked by hardship and division, after two awful wars, Germany was in ruin and divided by a wall, years of division goes by until the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the re-unification of Germany opened the path to a new chapter. Today, Germany stands as a symbol of resilience and renewal—celebrated for its music, philosophy, literature, and innovations, as well as its role as a cultural and economic leader in Europe.

Join Us for Trunk or Treat

Get ready for a fun-filled evening of candy, costumes, and community spirit!

🗓 Date: Thursday, October 30th
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Legacy at Savannah Quarters

Come dressed in your best costume and enjoy a safe, family-friendly night of trick-or-treating with our wonderful residents! We’ll have decorated trunks, sweet treats, and lots of smiles to go around.

For any questions, please email snix@legacysavannahquarters.com

The Power of Art and Creativity in Assisted Living and Memory Care Communities

Art and creativity are not just hobbies—they are powerful tools that bring joy, stimulate the mind, and enhance overall well-being, especially in assisted living and memory care communities. As residents navigate the challenges of aging, cognitive decline, or memory loss, creative expression becomes an essential way to support emotional, physical, and mental health. More than just a way to pass the time, art can spark imagination, encourage connection, and provide a renewed sense of purpose.

That’s why we place a strong focus on art and creative engagement in our community. We believe that every individual, regardless of age or ability, deserves the opportunity to express themselves, explore their imagination, and enjoy meaningful experiences each day. Our wide range of art-based activities is designed to inspire joy and personal fulfillment while supporting cognitive and emotional health.

Our residents enjoy a variety of hands-on creative experiences such as painting, crafting, wooden art projects, jewelry making, and more. These activities not only allow for personal expression but also help improve fine motor skills, stimulate memory, and create opportunities for social interaction. Whether it’s designing a piece of handmade jewelry or painting a scenic landscape, these projects bring a sense of accomplishment and pride.

Engaging in the arts also has a proven positive impact on brain health. Creative activities can help slow cognitive decline and give individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia an outlet for expression when words may be difficult. Art taps into parts of the brain that remain active even as memory fades, providing a meaningful connection to self and others.

Beyond the cognitive benefits, creative engagement boosts mood, reduces feelings of isolation, and fosters a strong sense of community. Group art sessions, for example, encourage residents to connect, share stories, and support one another, helping to build lasting friendships and reduce loneliness.

Perhaps most inspiring is how art reawakens the imagination. In our community, we’ve seen firsthand how residents light up when they create something new. Whether rekindling an old passion or trying something for the first time, creativity knows no age limit.

At the heart of our approach is the belief that everyone deserves to live a vibrant, expressive, and joyful life. By embracing the power of art and creativity, we help our residents not just live—but thrive—with dignity, imagination, and heart.

Consider joining us for our next Crafter Corner activity.

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Recipe Spotlight

Apple-Roasted Pork with Cherry Balsamic Glaze

Apple roasted pork with cherry balsamic

Ingredients:
1 boneless pork loin roast (3 pounds)
1-1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
3/4 teaspoon pepper, divided
1/4 cup olive oil, divided
3 medium apples, sliced
1-1/2 cups unsweetened apple juice
6 medium onions, sliced (about 5 cups)
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1-1/2 cups frozen pitted dark sweet cherries
1/2 cup cherry juice

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°. Sprinkle roast with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. In an ovenproof Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat; brown roast on all sides. Add apples and apple juice to pan. Bake, uncovered, 50-60 minutes or until a thermometer inserted in pork reads 145°, basting occasionally with pan juices.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat remaining oil over medium heat. Add onions and the remaining salt and pepper; cook and stir 8-10 minutes or until softened. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cook 35-40 minutes or until deep golden brown, stirring occasionally. Keep warm.

Remove roast and apples to a serving plate; tent with foil. Let roast stand 10 minutes before slicing.

Skim fat from pork pan juices. Place over medium-high heat; add vinegar and cook 1 minute, stirring to loosen browned bits from pan. Stir in cherries and cherry juice. Bring to a boil; cook 10-15 minutes or until mixture is reduced to about 1 cup. Serve pork, apples and onions with cherry glaze.

Resident of the Month

Blondean Newman

Born in Clyde, Georgia, Blondean spent her early years there until the area was acquired by the government and became part of Fort Stewart. Her family then moved to the Black Creek Community in Bryan County, where she grew up and met the love of her life, Oscar. During the early years of marriage, she and Oscar lived in Panama City with their young family before returning to Black Creek, where she would remain for most of her life.

 

Blondean began her professional journey working at a local bank in Bryan County. Her integrity, warmth, and strong work ethic quickly earned the trust of the community. Encouraged by many, she ran for public office and was elected Bryan County Tax Commissioner, serving faithfully from January 1966 until her retirement 30 years later. But her dedication didn’t stop there. Blondean was later elected County Commissioner, serving from 2001 until her final retirement in December 2010.

Throughout her career, Blondean was a strong advocate for her community, known for her honesty and tireless work ethic. She also gave back through causes close to her heart, serving as Bryan County’s March of Dimes sponsor and volunteering with the American Cancer Society. In retirement, she continued giving—sewing clothes for underprivileged children and supporting the Children’s Clothes Bank in her local school system.

In recognition of her lifetime of service, the Georgia Department of Transportation and Bryan County named the road in front of her home “Blondean Newman Highway” in 2021—an honor that she holds dear to her heart.

Faith has always been a central part of Blondean’s life. She is a longtime member of Ellabell United Methodist Church, where she taught adult Sunday School for over 20 years. Her love for the Lord, her church family, and her community shines in all she does.

Blondean and her beloved husband, Oscar, shared 64 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they raised three children—two sons and one daughter—and are blessed with a grandchild and a great-grandchild. After Oscar’s passing, Blondean remained in their Black Creek home until moving to Legacy at Savannah Quarters in November 2022.

Even today, Blondean’s caring heart is evident—always checking in on fellow residents, offering encouragement, and spreading kindness wherever she goes. When asked about her greatest achievements, she’ll humbly point to her many blessings: her faith, her family, her church, and the privilege of serving others.

We are so grateful to have Blondean as part of our Legacy family. She is a true example of a life well-lived—and still giving. Congratulations Ms. Blondean!

Associate of the Month

LaRhonda Duncan

LaRhonda Duncan

Born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, LaRhonda is a proud wife and mother of two wonderful children—her son, Malachi, and daughter, Samarya. With over 18 years of experience in the medical field, she is a dedicated Certified Nursing Assistant who brings compassion, care, and a deep passion for helping others into everything she does.

 

Family is at the heart of LaRhonda’s life. When she’s not working, she enjoys spending quality time with her children. A self-proclaimed shopping enthusiast, she especially looks forward to the holiday season—Christmas being her absolute favorite time of year.

LaRhonda joined the Legacy at Savannah Quarters team in November 2024 as the Assisted Living Lifestyles Coordinator. Since then, she has brought joy, energy, and creativity to her role. Some of her favorite activities with residents include crafting, enjoying luncheons, and hosting baking clubs. While she doesn’t consider herself a “true baker,” she loves trying new recipes and often brings them home to share with her family.

Congratulations, LaRhonda! Thank you for your dedication to creating purposeful and meaningful activities for our residents, and for the difference you make in their lives each day. We are so lucky to have you as part of the Legacy family!

Collaborators

Shamiria Nix, Memory Care Lifestyle Director | Legacy at Savannah Quarters

Shamiria Nix

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