Senior Living News December 2025

The Goldton at Athens Newsletter

December 1st, 2025

Around the world with Atlas - December 2025 - France

Resident´s Birthdays

C. Little 12/3
S. Stanford 12/10
H. Griffin 12/14
A. Underwood 12/27

Staff Birthdays

Nicol Carpenter 11/9
Joslyn Rogers 11/17
Jessica Laxson 11/22
Wilma Bates 11/24

Month's Celebrations

Christmas Luncheon 12/18
Christmas 12/25
New Years Eve 12/31

Leader of the month

Ms. Zina Bennett was born August 6, 1966, to the parents of Carolyn Martin and Joseph Lesser in New Orleans, La… She is the only daughter of Joseph Lesser and the oldest child of three to Carolyn (Martin) Bennett. Zina was adopted by her father Jack Bennett when she was 3 years old. Her brother Jack Jr. is 2.5 years younger than her and the baby brother is 7 years and 2 days younger than her. Zina is a graduated of John F. Kennedy Sr. High School. She attended Southern University in New Orleans and in Baton Rouge, but she finally earned her degree in Healthcare Administration Management Assistance from Central Christian College. Zina has one son Stephen Magraff Jr. who is 29 years of age. She has been in healthcare for 9 years. She started out at the Traditions of Athens (The Goldton at Athens) as an RCA to Med tech. She left and came back as the concierge in 2023 and was promoted to Lifestyle Director in 2024. Zina is a Baptist. When she is not working you can find her talking to her friends from home on the phone and watching television. The one thing Zina says she likes about working here at The Goldton at Athens is her team members, but overall, she loves the residents that she plans activities for.

From France with Love

Alexa, play Trois Gymnopédies, by ISAN.

Composed in 1888, Erik Satie’s Trois Gymnopédies are quiet masterpieces of simplicity and emotion. Their slow, graceful melodies were revolutionary for their time, creating a dreamy atmosphere that still feels modern today. A beautiful contemporary take comes from 2006 UK duo ISAN, whose gentle electronic version adds a warm, modern glow while honoring Satie’s timeless mood.

Seeing their faces light up

Jessica Paxton (Dining Director) returned to work after hours for pet therapy with “LENNY” the baby goat! The resident’s faces were aglow when “Lenny” snuggled in their arms. We provide pet therapy as an essential therapy for all of our residents as well as our team members! We believe animals have a way of allowing us to forget hardships and focus on peace in our lives. Providing our residents with peace and happiness through pets for an hour brings our hearts joy!

Welcome to France
Around the World with Atlas

France is a country built on centuries of history, artistry, and revolutionary ideas. From ancient Gaul and the rise of the Frankish kingdoms to the birth of the modern French state, its story is one of transformation. The foundations of France took shape through the coronation of Clovis in the 5th century, the brilliance of Charlemagne’s empire, and the evolution of a nation that would eventually stand at the center of European culture and politics. Over time, France became known not only for its kings and cathedrals but for a spirit of curiosity and change that shaped the world.
French culture has left an indelible mark across the arts, philosophy, cuisine, literature, and fashion. From the Enlightenment thinkers who reimagined human rights to the painters who transformed visual expression — Monet, Renoir, Cézanne, Degas — France has long been a beacon for creativity. Its influence extends into cinema, music, architecture, and the culinary traditions cherished worldwide, from buttery croissants to slow-cooked Coq au Vin. Every corner of French life carries a sense of refinement balanced with a deep appreciation for pleasure, beauty, and daily rituals.

To explore France is to step into a living tapestry of medieval villages, grand boulevards, vineyards, seaside cliffs, and cafés where time seems to slow down. It is a country that invites discovery — whether through the echo of cathedral bells, the quiet glow of a museum hall, or the simple joy of strolling along the Seine. France welcomes visitors not just to see its landmarks but to feel its spirit: a blend of elegance, history, and poetic charm that has captivated the world for centuries.

Grand Teton
National Park

Grand Teton
National Park

Thanksgiving Luncheon

Our Thanksgiving Luncheon was once again a huge success! Our residents and families were overwhelmingly pleased the food quality and the Thanksgiving service. From the beautiful decor to the warm family themed background music our guests and residents alike were astounded.

Sultry Sounds come to The Goldton!

Antonio Woodruff (singer, songwriter, producer, musician) made his debut performance for our residents on a cool crisp Thursday evening! Our crowd quickly grew once Antonio started singing and playing the piano! One of our more activity shy residents came out and absolutely loved Antonio’s performance! That resident remained throughout the entire performance cheering Antonio on! Our residents were so impressed they requested for Antonio to promise to return before he even finished his set! This was an absolute first for the Goldton, to have return request whilst the performer is still playing. Smiles were ear to ear on our residents! Terrence (Executive Director) came upstairs and began a dancing with the ladies of the Goldton (Goldton Goldies). It was a memorable event!

Resident of the Month

Bryan Jones

Mr. Bryan Jones was born October 12, 1946, to the parents of June and Wilson Jones, in Daytona Beach, Fl…. Mr. Jones grew up with (1) brother Wilson Jones Jr…. Bryan Jones attended Seabreeze High School. After graduating from high school, Mr. Jones attended Daytona Beach Community College where he earned his degree in Landscaping and Horticulture. Mr. Jones served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War for 4 years. Mr. Jones meet Ms. Mary Charles (Jones) while attending church, they were married in 2024. Mr. Jones has (3) daughters, and (1) son, (10) grandchildren, and (7) great- grandchildren. Mr. Jones says he loves the friendly staff, the clean environment, the tasty food, and he likes his garage.

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Happy Holidays! May this season bring you peace, happiness, and a little extra sparkle.

Associate of the Month

Makayla Trousdale

Ms. Makayla Trousdale was born April 11, 2006, in Elkmont, Al. to the parents of Lysandra Miller and Deion Trousdale. Makayla attended Elkmont and Athens High School. Ms. Trousdale came to work for The Goldton at Athens in October 2023. During her tenure at the Goldton she has been vital aspect to the clinical department. In April of 2025 Makayla added an addition to her family, Little Miss Emryn Grace Trousdale. When Makayla isn’t working you can find her being a loving mother to her baby girl and taking nature walks. Makayla states that she loves working and the Goldton because of the friendly team, the sweet residents, and the family atmosphere.

Collaborators

Terrence Francis

Zina Bennett