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ATLANTA, GA — 10/31/25 The Georgia Senior Living Association (GSLA) proudly hosted its annual Culinary Competition sponsored by AdvantageTrust during the 27th Annual Conference & Trade Show in Savannah, spotlighting the exceptional talent, creativity, and dedication of chefs serving the senior living community. This year’s competition featured five outstanding chefs, each presenting their unique interpretation of the classic Airline Cut Chicken dish:
Competitors were tasked with creating three identical plates within 40 minutes, using the same utensils, cooking equipment, and pantry ingredients, plus one personal ingredient of their choice. Each dish was then evaluated by a panel of judges across four categories: Organization, Presentation, Workmanship, and Taste - ensuring that both creativity and technical skill were recognized. After a closely contested and exciting event, Chef Stephanie Starege, Certified Dietary Manager at The Terraces at Peachtree Hills Place, was crowned 2025 GSLA Chef of the Year. "I was so proud to win, not just for my community but as a woman in a male-dominated industry,” Shared Chef Stephanie. “Representing my family with my Jamaican Jerk Chicken dish makes this especially meaningful - it’s a testament to the quality dining we strive to provide." “Dining is one of the most defining aspects of senior living - it’s where community, culture, and care all come together,” said Catie Ramp, President & CEO of GSLA. “The GSLA Culinary Competition demyths the idea that senior living food options are limited. The Competition also celebrates the professionals who turn every meal into an experience of connection and joy - Chef Stephanie exemplifies that spirit beautifully.” The GSLA Culinary Competition is designed not only to highlight individual talent but also to underscore the importance of dining experiences in senior living. Exceptional meals play a vital role in enhancing residents’ dignity and quality of life. The Competition celebrates chefs’ creativity, skill, and commitment to providing meaningful and memorable dining experiences. 
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ATLANTA, GA – The Georgia Senior Living Association (GSLA) proudly recognized David Johnston with the prestigious GSLA Lifetime Achievement Award during the 27th Annual Conference & Trade Show in Savannah, honoring nearly four decades of transformative leadership in Georgia’s senior living industry.
David Johnston’s journey began over 40 years ago, co-founding EdenCare in the 1990s and later establishing Beacon Communities in 2000. Over the course of his career, David managed nearly 70 senior living properties, led thousands of team members, and positively impacted tens of thousands of residents across Georgia. His guiding principles, proactivity, relationship-building, accountability, exceeding expectations, and living in the moment have been hallmarks of his leadership style. During the presentation, Catie Ramp, GSLA President & CEO, shared, "David Johnston’s dedication, vision, and leadership have shaped the very foundation of senior living in Georgia. His tireless commitment to quality care, mentorship, and collaboration has set a standard for all of us in this industry. We are grateful for his decades of service and the legacy he leaves behind." David Johnston has been a steadfast servant leader within GSLA, serving as a founding Board member and holding multiple Board leadership positions, including Chair, Vice-Chair, and Treasurer. His decades of collaboration have helped shape GSLA from its earliest iterations - SLAG, ALAG, and Georgia ALFA - to the robust organization it is today. GSLA Board Chair and Executive Vice President noted, "David’s dedication to our industry started with partnerships across the table; it is our responsibility to stand on his shoulders as we continue building the best state to age in place." In addition to the Lifetime Achievement Award, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp expressed his gratitude through a formal commendation recognizing Johnston’s lifetime of service and dedication to improving the quality of life for Georgia seniors residing in Georgia communities. As David and his wife, Anne Margret, embark on a well-deserved retirement adventure, GSLA celebrates the remarkable legacy he leaves behind; a legacy defined by connection, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Georgia’s seniors. Georgia Senior Living Association Celebrates 2025 Hero Award Winners at Annual Awards Gala7/11/2025 ATLANTA, GA – The Georgia Senior Living Association (GSLA) proudly honored six extraordinary individuals at the 2025 GSLA Awards Gala on June 12, 2025 at the Park Tavern in Atlanta, Georgia, recognizing them with the prestigious Hero Awards for their exceptional service and dedication to Georgia’s senior living communities.
Each member community is allowed to nominate only one individual per category, and winners are chosen through a blind vote, making these awards among the highest honors in Georgia senior living. “This year’s Hero Award recipients represent the very best of senior living in Georgia,” said Catie Ramp, President & CEO of the Georgia Senior Living Association. “We received an unprecedented number of high-caliber nominations—representing every level of care, every size of community, and nearly every region of the state. To be selected from such an outstanding group is an honor,” Ramp continued. “These individuals lead with purpose, compassion, and excellence. Their stories are helping shape the future of senior living in Georgia and serve as an inspiration to professionals across the state and beyond.” 2025 GSLA Hero Award Recipients:
Floralinda LaFratta – Corporate Staff Hero Vice President of People and Culture at Parc Communities, Floralinda is known for her people-first leadership. After transitioning from hospitality, she has become a driving force for team development and culture, consistently living and inspiring the core values of passion, empathy, and excellence. Gwene Komene – Direct Care Staff Hero A Medication Technician since 2017, Gwene is a quiet leader known for her compassion and reliability. She’s deeply trusted by her peers, and her willingness to be present during emotional moments—such as staying overnight with a grieving daughter—reflects her unwavering commitment to care. Sadia Muradi – Community Staff Member Hero Sadia began at Sunrise of Decatur with no English skills and a heart full of determination. In just three years, she’s grown into a fluent communicator and a beloved team member who lifts everyone around her. Her journey reflects hard work, resilience, and the power of perseverance. Brian Polley – Community Staff Leader Hero As Maintenance Director at Manor Lake Gainesville, Brian is more than his title. From dressing as Santa to honoring veterans, to responding during emergencies, Brian brings heart and leadership to every corner of the community. He’s the person everyone calls—not because he has to be, but because they trust him. Shauna Queen – Executive Director Hero Shauna leads Oaks at Stockbridge with heart and intention. She knows her residents deeply and has built a culture of excellence and trust among her team. Under her leadership, satisfaction and performance have soared—creating not just a facility, but a true home. Rhonda Kimbrell – Volunteer Hero A steady and joyful presence at Oaks at Hampton, Rhonda dedicates her time, energy, and heart to her community. Her ongoing volunteerism has become a vital part of daily life—offering friendship, comfort, and care that goes far beyond duty. The GSLA Hero Awards celebrate the people who make senior living in Georgia thrive. Their compassion, leadership, and service inspire all of us to do more and care deeper. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the termination of the CHNV Parole Program—originally launched in 2022 for individuals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. As a result, some CHNV parolee employees in senior living may receive notices via email that their parole status and work authorization have been rescinded.
What This Means for Employers:
Important Note: Employers should not provide legal advice. If employees receive a termination notice, advise them to consult immigration legal counsel for guidance on their options. Argentum’s Foreign-Born Workers Resource Guide (FBRG) includes helpful state-specific information on immigration resources, legal support, healthcare, housing, and more. For questions, contact: Paul Williams – [email protected] James R. Balda, President & CEO – via Argentum Atlanta, GA -The Georgia Senior Living Association (GSLA) proudly celebrates the final passage of Senate Bills 68 and 69, key components of Governor Brian Kemp’s tort reform package. SB 68, the cornerstone of the effort, passed the Georgia House on March 20 after clearing the Senate on February 21 and secured final passage on March 21. SB 69 passed the Senate unanimously with bipartisan support on February 27. The reforms in SB 68 and SB 69 significantly improve the legal environment in Georgia for senior living operators. SB 68 clarifies premises liability standards, curbs jury "anchoring" of inflated damage amounts, allows transparency in economic damages by addressing "phantom damages," and permits bifurcated trials where liability must be established first before damages are discussed. SB 69 brings much needed transparency and accountability to third-party litigation financing.
Catie Ramp, President & CEO of GSLA, issued the following statement: “On behalf of the Georgia Senior Living Association and the nearly 1,700 senior living communities in our state, we are incredibly grateful to the Georgia General Assembly, Governor Brian Kemp, Senate President Pro Tem John Kennedy, and House Majority Whip James Burchett for their leadership in passing these critical reforms. These bills will have a transformative impact on our members—reducing legal burdens, protecting access to care, improving resident outcomes, preserving our workforce, and ultimately making Georgia the best place to age in place. We are confident this new environment will attract even more senior living operators to expand their services here in Georgia.” GSLA remains committed to advocating for policies that strengthen the senior living industry and looks forward to the positive impact these reforms will have on our members once signed into law. ## Founded in 1998, GSLA is a non-profit, member-based, 501(c)6 trade association representing Georgia's senior living industry and the growing population it serves. Members range from state-licensed assisted living communities (ALC), personal care homes (PCH), Memory Care Communities (MC), and retirement campuses where assisted living, personal care, and memory care may be a component (CCRC), as well as Industry Partners (IP) that provide products and services for the senior living industry. While GSLA membership is diverse, our mission is shared by all. GSLA works to ensure the right of every Georgia senior to receive quality care in a choice-driven, dignified, safe, and clean residential home environment. GSLA is the only association that exclusively represents and supports Georgia's Senior Living communities. Media Contact: Sydney Cummings Director of Communications Georgia Senior Living Association [email protected] www.gasla.org ATLANTA, GA – The Georgia Senior Living Association (GSLA) celebrates the final passage of Senate Bill 68, the omnibus bill in Governor Brian Kemp’s comprehensive tort reform package. SB 68 secured bipartisan approval in the Georgia State House of Representatives on March 20 after initially passing the Georgia State Senate on February 21. The bill now heads to Governor Brian Kemp for his signature.
Catie Ramp, President & CEO of GSLA, issued the following statement: “On behalf of the Georgia Senior Living Association and the nearly 1,700 senior living communities in our state, we are incredibly grateful to the Georgia General Assembly, their leadership, and Governor Kemp for supporting the successful passage of SB 68. Georgia’s litigious environment has been a major barrier for operators for far too long. This reform will positively impact our residents and businesses, rebalancing the senior living ecosystem, protecting access, improving resident care, and preserving our workforce.” GSLA remains committed to advocating for policies that strengthen the senior living industry and looks forward to continued legislative progress. ## Founded in 1998, GSLA is a non-profit, member-based, 501(c)6 trade association representing Georgia's senior living industry and the growing population it serves. Members range from state-licensed assisted living communities (ALC), personal care homes (PCH), Memory Care Communities (MC), and retirement campuses where assisted living, personal care, and memory care may be a component (CCRC), as well as Industry Partners (IP) that provide products and services for the senior living industry. While GSLA membership is diverse, our mission is shared by all. GSLA works to ensure the right of every Georgia senior to receive quality care in a choice-driven, dignified, safe, and clean residential home environment. GSLA is the only association that exclusively represents and supports Georgia's Senior Living communities. Media Contact: Sydney Cummings Director of Communications Georgia Senior Living Association [email protected] www.gasla.org Atlanta, GA – The Georgia Senior Living Association (GSLA) proudly welcomes Leslie Finkley, Chief Operating Officer at Orchard Senior Living, and Joshua Peterson, President of Galerie Management, to its Board of Directors. Their leadership and industry expertise will help drive GSLA’s mission of advocating for quality care, safety, and innovation in Georgia’s senior living communities. Catie Ramp, President and CEO of GSLA expressed her excitement about the new board members, “We are thrilled to welcome Leslie and Joshua to the GSLA Board. Their diverse backgrounds and leadership in the senior living industry will bring invaluable perspectives to our Association. Their experience and dedication will strengthen GSLA programs in advocacy and education, ensuring continued successful senior living in Georgia.” With years of operational and leadership experience, Finkley and Peterson are eager to contribute to GSLA’s initiatives. Joshua Peterson, President of Galerie Management home of the CORSO brand, expressed his enthusiasm for joining the GSLA Board: “I am excited to serve on the GSLA Board to advocate for excellence in senior living and contribute to initiatives that enhance the quality of care, safety, and well-being for residents across Georgia.” Leslie Finkley, Chief Operating Officer at Orchard Senior Living, emphasized the significant impact of GSLA’s educational initiatives: “I have been consistently impressed with the comprehensive senior living education that GSLA offers. Their programs provide valuable learning opportunities at every level of caregiving, and I’ve seen firsthand how impactful they are in strengthening the industry and keeping us all informed and aware.” With their expertise, GSLA is poised to continue championing the needs of residents and providers. The Association eagerly anticipates Leslie and Joshua's contributions and values their role in shaping the future of senior living in Georgia.
Atlanta, GA – On Thursday, January 30, the Georgia Senior Living Association (GSLA) was invited to be part of a press conference at the Georgia State Capitol, where Governor Brian Kemp unveiled Senate Bill 68 and Senate Bill 69, a comprehensive litigation reform package. Governor Kemp was joined by Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Speaker Jon Burns, Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King, and numerous members of the Georgia General Assembly in support of these critical reforms. Catie Ramp, President and CEO of GSLA commented, “For far too long, our litigious environment has been an inhibiting factor for Operators in Georgia. Rising insurance costs often make it difficult for providers to keep their doors open. The Georgia Senior Living Association applauds our elected leaders for working to support common-sense and fair litigation reform that will rebalance the senior living ecosystem, protect access, improve resident care, and preserve our workforce.” SB 68 and SB 69, both sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore John Kennedy, contain reforms that benefit the Association's members. These include limiting third-party litigation funding, reforming premises liability laws, requiring plaintiffs to demonstrate actual medical costs, and preventing double-dipping on legal fees. These changes are vital to protecting senior living operators from abusive lawsuits that increase costs for providers, residents, and employees. GSLA encourages all members to join us at the Georgia State Capitol on February 5th for GSLA Advocacy Day. This event offers Providers and Industry Partners an invaluable opportunity to engage with legislators and emphasize the significance of SB 68 and SB 69 for the senior living community. More information and registration details can be found at www.gasla.org ##
Founded in 1998, GSLA is a non-profit, member-based, 501(c)6 trade association representing Georgia's senior living industry and the growing population it serves. Members range from state-licensed assisted living communities (ALC), personal care homes (PCH), Memory Care Communities (MC), and retirement campuses where assisted living, personal care, and memory care may be a component (CCRC), as well as Industry Partners (IP) that provide products and services for the senior living industry. While GSLA membership is diverse, our mission is shared by all. GSLA works to ensure the right of every Georgia senior to receive quality care in a choice-driven, dignified, safe, and clean residential home environment. GSLA is the only association that exclusively represents and supports Georgia's Senior Living communities. Media Contact: Sydney Cummings Director of Communications Georgia Senior Living Association [email protected] www.gasla.org ATLANTA GEORGIA. On behalf of the Georgia Senior Living Association Members and Board of Directors, the association applauds Governor Kemp and the pursuit of comprehensive litigation reform as his number one legislative priority this year, announced in the State of the State Address. This reform will be a crucial step towards ensuring the sustainability of senior living providers in Georgia.
Excessive litigation and the looming threat of run-away damage awards against Senior Living Providers have driven insurance premiums to uncontrollable heights for years. The escalating cost of providing services to Georgia's seniors is now at a critical point, jeopardizing the accessibility and affordability of choice-driven care for our most vulnerable population. The mounting insurance costs also pose a serious threat to the ability of Providers to continue offering care to the 43,000 residents already living in Georgia's nearly 500 senior living communities. Catie Ramp, GSLA President and CEO shared, "I am grateful to Governor Kemp for addressing Georgia's need for comprehensive litigation reform. His leadership on this issue will significantly impact the Georgia economy and, more importantly, directly impact the lives of tens of thousands of seniors who depend on their assisted living community or personal care home for care. GSLA will continue to partner with the Governor to support this important step forward." ## Founded in 1998, GSLA is a non-profit, member-based, 501(c)6 trade association representing Georgia's senior living industry and the growing population it serves. Members range from state-licensed assisted living communities (ALC), personal care homes (PCH), Memory Care Communities (MC), and retirement campuses where assisted living, personal care, and memory care may be a component (CCRC), as well as Industry Partners (IP) that provide products and services for the senior living industry. While GSLA membership is diverse, our mission is shared by all. GSLA works to ensure the right of every Georgia senior to receive quality care in a choice-driven, dignified, safe, and clean residential home environment. GSLA is the only association that exclusively represents and supports Georgia's Senior Living communities. Media Contact: Sydney Cummings Director of Communications Georgia Senior Living Association [email protected] www.gasla.org Georgia Senior Living Association Presents Culinary Awards and Honors Sen. Matt Brass of Newnan as Legislator of the Year Annual Awards Recognize Individuals Who Embody Heart & Soul of Senior Living Industry in Georgia Atlanta, Ga. (December 19, 2024) - The Georgia Senior Living Association (GSLA) recently honored exceptional individuals who embody the heart and soul of the senior living industry by honoring them with the association’s annual awards. These leaders are an invaluable resource in creating communities where residents can age in place with dignity, purpose, and personalized care. The awards were presented as part of the GSLA’s 2024 Grounded & Growing Conference & Trade Show. GSLA’s final two awards of 2024 celebrated extraordinary achievements: ● Chef Juan Lasprilla of the Oaks at Gracemont took home the top prize in the GSLA Culinary Competition for the second year in a row as the Chef of the Year, showcasing his dedication to his craft and his incredible talent in serving residents with skill and passion. ● Senator Matt Brass (R-Newnan) was recognized as Legislator of the Year for his dedication to supporting policies that enhance the lives of seniors and the senior living industry. Throughout the year, GSLA has continued to spotlight the people who make senior living a trusted choice for older adults and their families. From chefs like Juan Lasprilla to executive leaders, caregivers, and volunteers, these individuals ensure that residents are cared for, empowered, and supported. “Awards like the Culinary Competition and the annual GSLA Hero Awards build a community outside of the corporate name tag and inside the industry,” said Catie Ramp, president and CEO of GSLA. “If we can give talented people spaces where they feel seen, they feel like partners and are doing something important together, we build lasting value for staff and residents alike.” Honoring Excellence Across the Industry - At GSLA’s Annual Awards Gala earlier this year, the association recognized outstanding contributions from professionals across the field. Winners included: ● Lifetime Achievement Award: Alex Salabarria, founding GSLA Board Member and former president & CEO of Oaks Senior Living, for his decades-long dedication to residents and staff in Georgia. ● Direct Care Staff: Judith Grant, The Phoenix at Milton ● Community Staff Member: Carla Burns, Addington Place of Brunswick ● Community Staff Leader: Diamond Udell, Brookdale Chambrel Roswell ● Executive Director: Kailey Hooper, Orchard at Athens ● Corporate Staff Member: Pam Polley, Beacon Communities ● Industry Partner: Lori Hamilton, Managed Health Solutions ● Volunteer of the Year: John Edmondson, Manor Lake Hamilton Mill, Dawsonville & Hoschton Creating Community and Connection GSLA’s events such as the Annual Conference & Trade Show foster an environment where senior living professionals come together beyond their roles. These spaces cultivate partnerships, inspire collaboration, and strengthen the unique connections that make the senior living industry exceptional. As GSLA looks to the future, the organization remains committed to celebrating these industry heroes and supporting their mission to promote the quality of life for Georgia’s seniors. |
AuthorGeorgia Senior Living Association Archives
November 2025
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