February 2025 by chattahoocheevalleyliving

February 2 March 8 March 7 February 28

SPECIAL OLYMPICS LEE COUNTY IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Bill Evans

The Special Olympics of Lee County, Alabama, is a local chapter of the Special Olympics movement, dedicated to providing sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The Special Olympics run from August – May. The goal is to help athletes develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and form meaningful relationships.

In Lee County, the Special Olympics program typically offers a variety of sports such as track and field, basketball, bowling, swimming, and more, depending on the season and the available resources. These events give athletes the opportunity to compete at the local, regional, and sometimes even state levels.

Elizabeth Kaufman is the Director of the Lee County Special Olympics, through the Parks and Recreation Department of the city of Auburn. Participants comes as far away as Columbus to participate.

“We have over 300 athletes ages 8+. Our oldest athlete is in their 60’s! We support athletes from Lee, Russell, Macon, and Tallapoosa counties,” Elizabeth shared with me. “Right now, we have basketball, volleyball, powerlifting, golf, bowling, aquatics, and track and field for our main sports. We are always looking to add coaches for new sports, if anyone is interested. It’s about a 1-2 hour/week commitment, plus traveling to competitions.

“We are currently updating our uniforms and saving up for 2025 State Games and 2026 National Games in Minneapolis, which are our big fundraising focus areas

Brandon Reese, State Track 2019, 1st Place

right now. We just finished up with a very successful Polar Plunge in January, which is one of our biggest fund-raising events.”

The Special Olympics of Lee County program is powered by dedicated volunteers, coaches, and supporters who play an integral role in helping athletes thrive, not only in sports but in life. The Special Olympics also aims to raise awareness about the abilities and potential of individuals with intellectual disabilities, challenging stigmas and promoting inclusion in the community.

If you would like more information or volunteer contact Elizabeth Kaufman, Lee County Special Olympics Director at ekaufman@auburnalabama.org.

The Special Olympics of Lee County will be the designated charity for Columbus/Auburn/Opelika Dining for Charities for March and April. 15% of all your purchases from Dining for Charities will be donated to Special Olympics of Lee County.

Brandt Graham, Golf

Columbus Hospice would like to congratulate our President and CEO for 30 years of service!

“Donna is an National expert in the field of hospice care. Her continued compassionate leadership at Columbus Hospice of Georgia and Alabama reflects her dedication to patients and families, staff and volunteers.

Congratulations on 30 years of your serving our community.” -

Shari Evans, Board President

“Reflecting on my 30 years with Columbus Hospice of Georgia and Alabama, I pay tribute to the patients and families who entrusted us with their care. I am grateful to be part of an organization that cares for people in the special way that only a non-profit hospice can.” - Donna Morgan

East Alabama Chamber of Commerce Launches 2024 with Dynamic Networking and Community Initiatives

The East Alabama Chamber of Commerce is kicking off the new year with events aimed at bringing businesses and the community closer together. From themed networking breakfasts to service-oriented gatherings, the chamber continues to create meaningful opportunities for professionals to connect, learn, and grow.

“We want to make sure every business—whether in East Alabama or Columbus—has a place to engage, collaborate, and succeed,” said Melissa Gauntt, President and CEO of the East Alabama Chamber of Commerce. “Our goal is to create an environment where businesses of all sizes feel supported and have the resources they need to thrive. It’s in our mission: to create relationship that helps grow regional business.”

One of the most exciting additions this year’s roster of events is

Sip & Serve (Happy Hour with Heart). It blends networking with community service. Community members, especially the newer generation, will have the chance to enjoy refreshments while working together on local service projects in a casual atmosphere.

“This is a great way for our community to make an impact while also strengthening relationships,” Gauntt said. “It’s networking with a purpose, and we’re excited to see the difference it will make in our community. It’s also a more casual atmosphere with a hands-on activity making it easier to strike up conversations with people. We know it can sometimes be intimidating to talk to new people. We’re making it fun and beneficial.”

The Chamber’s Business After Hours series is also getting a refresh, with creative themes designed to spotlight different industries. January’s “Slow Down with our Fast Food Friends” spotlighted restaurants that may not typically host such an event in their location. These after-hours gatherings provide businesses with exposure while offering attendees a relaxed way to connect outside of traditional work hours. Gauntt says “we know people like to do business with partners they know, like and trust, and we like for our events to allow our members to cross paths with people they may not normally and get to know them a little better, so they not only want to do business with them, but also refer them to others.”

Its signature event, Breakfast & Business, is evolving to include monthly themes that make each meeting both informative and fun. It brings together business leaders, local officials, and professionals to discuss relevant topics, from economic trends to industry insights.

“Our themed breakfasts add an extra layer of engagement,”

Gauntt said. “Not only do attendees get to network, but they also leave with new ideas and perspectives that can help them in their businesses.”

For those looking to develop professionally, the Chamber’s Lunch and Learn sessions offer valuable education on topics ranging from work-life balance to small business strategies.

While the Chamber is based in East Alabama, its resources and events are open to businesses throughout the Chattahoochee Valley region and beyond. Membership provides access to networking, educational opportunities, leadership learning and advocacy that can benefit businesses on both sides of the river.

“We want businesses—no matter where they are—to know that they’re welcome,” Gauntt said. “The Chamber is here to help them connect, grow, and make a difference in our community.”

For more information about upcoming events or how to get involved, visit ealcc.com, email Membership and Marketing Director Denise DuBois at denise@ealcc.com, or call 334-298-3639.

Dr. Jennifer A. Monaco is a board-certified podiatrist leading the premier Ankle & Foot Centers of America office in Columbus, Georgia. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for healing, she stands out as a leading podiatrist dedicated to providing topnotch foot care services for patients of all ages and backgrounds.

Understanding the impact foot and ankle issues can have on daily life, Dr. Monaco focuses on surgical treatment and reconstructive surgery for a wide range of conditions affecting the lower extremities. From ankle sprains and fractures to tendon injuries and plantar fasciitis, she offers compassionate care in a welcoming environment that promotes healing and recovery.

A highly qualified professional, Dr. Monaco received her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine Degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. She completed her residency in podiatric surgery at prestigious institutions like Scripps Mercy Hospital and Kaiser Foundation Hospital in San Diego, California, a fellowship in limb lengthening and reconstruction at Sinai Hospital’s Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics in Baltimore, Maryland, and an A.O. trauma fellowship at Inselspital University of Bern in Switzerland.

Dr. Monaco is board certified in foot surgery and reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery with the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. In addition, she has completed training with Healogics®, the nation’s top wound care management firm, to become certified in advanced wound care and wound prevention for chronic illnesses.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Monaco is deeply committed to giving back to the community. She has led numerous medical missions, with a focus on providing free foot and ankle reconstructive surgery in underserved areas. Her dedication to humanitarian efforts highlights her caring nature and commitment to making a positive impact beyond her practice.

Leading Podiatrist Pioneering Foot and Ankle Care

Springer Opera House Honors Community’s First Inhabitants Indigenous Peoples Recognized with Two Groundbreaking Productions

Written by Jhai James, Marketing and Communications Manager, Springer Opera House

Continuing its tradition of recognizing and honoring Indigenous peoples, the Springer Theatre announces two original productions in its current season: The Mvskoke Project, commissioned by and making its world premiere at the Springer, and On the Far End, a one-woman show that tells the story of an Indigenous rights activist and powerful attorney. These productions spotlight the rich history, cultural traditions, and ongoing legacy of the Mvskoke (Creek) Nation, whose ancestral lands include Columbus and the surrounding area.

The Mvskoke Project, a groundbreaking, world premiere play commissioned by the Springer, delves into the history and resilience of the Mvskoke (Creek) Nation. The production focuses on the lives and stories of the Indigenous peoples who inhabited the southeastern United States before European colonization, particularly in the Columbus community region.

Created by playwright Eri Nox, The Mvskoke Project combines oral traditions, historical accounts, and contemporary narratives to honor the Mvskoke people’s enduring connection to the land and their journey through periods of displacement and survival. Through immersive storytelling, music, and visuals inspired by Mvskoke art and culture, The Mvskoke Project invites audiences to engage with the past and present of the Indigenous peoples who shaped the region, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for their enduring legacy.

On the Far End is a powerful one-woman show that explores the resilience and experiences of a Mvskoke activist. Mvskoke leader Ella Jean Hill traces her family’s history from the Trail of Tears to her grandfather’s allotment in central Oklahoma. She shares her story in an emotional one-woman play—the Native boarding school she fled on foot, her marriage to a young Bengali scholar, and the advocacy that became her life’s work. With On the Far End, a reference to the landmark 2020 Supreme Court opinion in McGirt v. Oklahoma that upheld the sovereignty of the Mvskoke territories, one of America’s leading playwrights weaves a deeply personal account of one family—her own mother-in-law’s—and a legacy of broken promises between nations.

Both productions were developed in consultation with Mvskoke leaders, artists, and historians to ensure authenticity and respect. By engaging directly with the Mvskoke community, the Springer Theatre aims to deepen understanding and foster meaningful connections between audiences and Indigenous culture.

To complement these productions, the Springer Theatre will host workshops, panels, and/or post-show discussions, offering audiences an opportunity to explore Mvskoke traditions, language, and history in greater depth. These events aim to inspire dialogue and build bridges of cultural understanding within the community.

The debut of The Mvskoke Project underscores the Springer Theatre’s commitment to commissioning and supporting new works that amplify underrepresented voices in the arts. This world premiere highlights Indigenous heritage and affirms the Springer’s role as a champion for diverse and inclusive storytell-

ing.

The Mvskoke Project, presented as a Springer’s Studio II Series production in the Dorothy McClure Theatre (“The Dot”), opens April 3 at 7:30 PM. On The Far End, also performed in the Dorothy McClure Theatre, opens April 17 at 7:30 PM as a limited engagement with additional performances on April 18 and 19.

For tickets and additional information, visit www.springeroperahousetheatre.org or contact the Springer Theatre Box Office at (706) 327-3688.

All photos courtesy of Jhai James

FDA Allows Those Who Lived or Served Overseas to Donate Blood

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the government agency that regulates blood donation, changed blood donor eligibility to help safely increasing the number of people who are eligible to give blood.

The FDA eliminated the deferral for donating blood for those who were previously deferred due to spending time or living in the United Kingdom, France or Ireland. The FDA determined there is no longer a risk of transmitting Cruetzfeldt-Jakob Disease (or mad cow disease) to patients receiving blood transfusions. Also, those who have lived on U.S. military bases in Europe from 1980 to 1996 and France or Ireland from 1980 to 2001 are allowed to donate blood.

“We are excited to be able to welcome blood donors who may have been deferred from donating in the past,” said LifeSouth District Director Sharon Carpenter. “Blood donations are needed now to make sure our local hospitals have the blood needed to

About LifeSouth

treat patients.”

Blood donors who were previously deferred for living in or traveling to the UK, France, Ireland or a military base in Europe are asked to come in and donate blood.

In February, all blood donors receive a $25 e-gift card and canvas tote and platelet and double red cell donors receive a $45 e-gift card. Please visit lifesouth.org to schedule an appointment to donate or to find out more information.

LifeSouth also announces their new Regional Manager for the Columbus area, Karisa Gardner. The community is invited to stop in to donate blood and meet Karisa, and If a business, school, church or organization would like to host a blood drive, contact Karisa at 762-262-0036.

LifeSouth is a non-profit community blood center serving hospitals in Georgia, Florida, Alabama and Tennessee.

LifeSouth is a non-profit community blood bank serving more than 150 hospitals in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee. LifeSouth is committed to meeting the blood supply needs of hospitals and their patients by providing the highest quality blood components and services. The LifeSouth team is dedicated to ensuring blood is available when patients need it. To learn more, visit LifeSouth.org. For additional resources and information about blood donation, visit donatingblood.org.

From Survival Mode to Sustained Success: How Sygie Sumlin Jackson is Empowering Women to Lead with Freedom

Written by Maria Hayes

When you first meet Sygie Sumlin Jackson, you might never guess that the poised and self-assured entrepreneur was once overworked, juggling a life that looked successful but felt anything but. Once upon a time, she followed every traditional step: college, marriage, kids, and a steady job. But inside, she knew there had to be more than endless meetings and running on fumes.

“I kept wondering how some women made it all look so seamless,” Sygie recalls. “They had the same 24 hours in a day—but they also had freedom.”

That sense of freedom remained elusive until her safety net vanished. “I lost my job in insurance, and while trying to decide what’s next and build a business. I was also going through a divorce which meant frequent court dates for child support.”

It was the reality check that propelled her to ask a question so many women eventually face: What does real freedom look like?

Her initial answer came in the form of a virtual assistant business, but she quickly discovered she’d simply swapped one job for another. There was no more time, no more space—just more tasks, more hustle. The turning point arrived when she embraced systems and automation, pairing them with intentional leadership. Finally, Sygie unlocked not just a thriving business, but a better life.

Today, Sygie is the founder of RICH Marketing Systems, and her mission is to help female founders, especially women of color, build small but

mighty teams of three to five people. “Too many entrepreneurs wear every hat, from CEO to customer service, trying to do it all,” she explains. “I help them reclaim their time by putting the right systems, team members, and mindset in place.”

If she could share one piece of advice with her younger self, it would be: Every room you step into, you’re meant to be there. Know why you’re in the room and own it. That same energy drives her approach to coaching and leadership—she believes deeply that women belong wherever they choose to stand.

Motivation has never been an issue for Sygie. “Sitting still while my goals collect dust? That’s exhausting,” she jokes. “For me, motivation isn’t a spark, it’s a steady flame. I know the payoff will come if I keep moving forward.”

Still, she recognizes that many female entrepreneurs face moments of defeat. That’s when she advises them to plan their water breaks. “Marathon runners don’t sprint for 26 miles straight,” she points out. “They stop for water. You’ve got to schedule in breaks—lunch, downtime, mini vacations—whatever refuels you and keeps you in the game.”

Author of the book Ready for Higher: How to Hire, Onboard, and Train Your First Virtual Team Members—Even if Tech Isn’t Your Thing, Sygie is a strategist with a passion for helping women move from survival mode into thriving leadership. But more than that, she’s an advocate for building a life on your own terms.

“Creating a life that fills you up is the most powerful decision you’ll ever make,” she says. “When you build a life that aligns with your passions and purpose, you don’t just change your business—you change everything. Go after it with everything you’ve got. You deserve it.”

Between her heartfelt dedication to seeing women succeed and her knack for mastering systems, Sygie is a force in entrepreneurship—reminding us that sometimes, all it takes is one setback to spark the journey toward a life of freedom, sustainability, and joy.

So my fellow entrepreneurs, it’s seems like there is very little excuse for us to not be out here succeeding and reaching goals. So stay the course, no looking back, there is a new life straight ahead.

I believe in you.

Heart Disease: The Leading Cause of Death & How Prestige

Family Medicine Can Help You Stay Healthy

by Dr. Shikha Shah, MD

Did you know that heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, responsible for more fatalities than all types of cancer and accidents combined?

According to the American Heart Association’s 2025 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Update, the U.S. recorded 941,652 cardiovascular-related deaths in 2022, marking an increase from previous years.

At Prestige Family Medicine, we are committed to providing comprehensive heart health screenings, preventive care, and treatment options to help our patients reduce their risk of heart disease and live longer, healthier lives. Why Is Heart Disease Still the #1 Killer? Despite advances in medicine and increased awareness about cardiovascular health, heart disease continues to rise. Here’s a look at the major risk factors contributing to heart dis-

ease:

1. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure affects millions of Americans without obvious symptoms. Over time, uncontrolled hypertension damages arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular complications. Routine blood pressure monitoring and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce this risk.

2. Obesity & Poor Diet

Obesity rates continue to climb, and an unhealthy diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats is a major contributor. Excess weight increases the risk of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes—all of which contribute to heart disease.

At Prestige Family Medicine, we offer personalized weight loss programs, including GLP-1 medications, customized nutrition plans, and personal training consultations to help patients

achieve their weight loss goals and improve heart health.

3. Sedentary Lifestyle

Modern lifestyles often involve long hours sitting at desks or using screens, leading to lower levels of physical activity. Regular exercise is essential for heart health, as it helps maintain a healthy weight, improves circulation, and strengthens the heart muscle.

Even small changes, such as daily walks, yoga, or strength training, can have a significant impact on cardiovascular health.

4. Diabetes & Insulin Resistance

Diabetes dramatically increases the risk of heart disease by damaging blood vessels and increasing inflammation. Many individuals are unaware they have pre-diabetes or insulin resistance, putting them at greater risk for heart complications.

At Prestige Family Medicine, we offer comprehensive diabetes management, including medication management, lifestyle counseling, and nutritional support.

5. Stress & Mental Health

Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can take a toll on heart health. Elevated cortisol levels from prolonged stress can contribute to high blood pressure, inflammation, and unhealthy lifestyle choices like overeating or smoking.

Addressing mental health is just as important as managing physical health when it comes to heart disease prevention.

How Prestige Family Medicine Can Help Protect Your Heart

At Prestige Family Medicine, Dr. Shikha Shah and her team provide a holistic approach to heart health, focusing on prevention, early detection, and personalized treatment plans.

Our services include:

- Comprehensive Heart Health Screenings (EKG, ABI, vascular studies, cholesterol testing)

- Blood Pressure & Diabetes Management

- Weight Loss Programs, including GLP-1 Medications & Personal Training Consultations

- Sleep Studies for Sleep Apnea & Cardiovascular Risk Reduction

- Nutritional Counseling & Exercise Guidance

We believe prevention is the best medicine—early detection of risk factors can drastically reduce your chances of developing serious heart disease complications.

February is Heart Health Month – Take Action Today! Special Announcement: We Now Accept Ambetter Insurance!

To make our services more accessible, we are now accepting Ambetter insurance. If you’ve been putting off a checkup, this is the perfect time to visit Prestige Family Medicine for a heart health screening.

Book Your Appointment Today

Don’t wait until it’s too late! Call us at (706) 591-8080 or visit our website www.prestigefamilymedicine.org to schedule your appointment today.

Your heart health matters. Let us help you take the first step toward a healthier future!

Exclusive Updates: Get access to behind-thescenes content, exclusive promotions, and sneak peeks before anyone else.

Join a vibrant community of likeminded individuals who share your interests, where you can connect, interact, and engage in meaningful discussions.

Stay up-to-date with the latest news, events, and announcements delivered straight to your feed, ensuring you never miss a beat.

Tip of the day

https://www.facebook.com/ChattahoocheeValleyLiving

At Jim Fuller Farm, we are proud to offer farm-fresh quality beef and hay at an affordable price. How do you get bulk beef fresh from the farm?

We make it easy!

1. Put down a $150 deposit to hold your spot. We process six cows a month. Currently, we are booking for March!

2. You get to choose the hanging weight that suits your budget and cut preferences! Prices per lb of hanging weight can be seen at www.jimfullerfarm.com.

3. You choose all your own cuts! From ribeyes to strips, filets, or tbones! From chuck roasts to short ribs! Boneless steaks or bone-in! Your choice! Half and whole cows are cut to your liking! (Quarters are standard cut).

4. We deliver cows to the processor in Barnesville, and we also haul your custom, vacuum-sealed beef back to Ellerslie for pick up at our farm. Turn-around is approximately 2-3 weeks, as beef ages for 10-14 days then is cut, packaged, and frozen for two full days before we pick up.

Thank you for supporting our local, family-owned farm!

It’s Not the End

APersonalStoryfromJimFullerFarm

2016wasthehardestyearoftheirlives,andtheyhadn’teven met.Jimwasnearingtheendofabattlewithalcoholismthat nearlytookhislife.He’dbeeninthehospitalforweeksandwas closetobeingaddedtoawaitinglistforalivertransplant-IFhe couldstopdrinking.Itlookedliketheend,butitwasn’t.Hopewas justaroundthecorner.

Kristawassuddenlywidowedthatyearafter23yearsofmarriage,atjust43yearsofage,lefttoraisetwokidsalone,ages10 and13.Itfeltliketheend,andinsomeways,itwasdefinitelyan ending,butwhensomethingends,somethingnewbegins.

Sometimein2017,Kristawaslearningtonavigatethisnew normal,andJimwasseveralmonthssober,butstillverysick. Theymetandbecamefriends,andKrista,workingasanRNin thehospitalatthetime,begantohelpinterprethislabs,ashis bodyslowlyrecoveredfromalcoholism.Theybegantoprayfor oneanother,exchangingdailymessagesanddevotions,andgrew afriendshipthatlastedfouryears.In2021,JimandKristamarried.Jimiseightyearssoberandhislabsarecompletelynormal. HeandKristaspendtimehelpingothersinrecoveryonadaily

basis, as well as managing the farm, and enjoying their miracle life together.

They’ve gone from processing a cow once in a while, to processing six cows per month, providing quality grass and grain fed beef to the community they love. Jim also manages hay for several other farms in Harris County, and provides a quality product for local cows, horses, and goats. More importantly, Jim has people stop by the farm several times a week “just to talk,” something Jim finds no problem doing! To be with him fills you with gratitude and joy, because it emanates from him. He will tell you how God saved his life and helped him build a brand new one with Krista by his side, and how thankful he is for a family who loves and supports him.

At Krista’s first husband’s funeral, Reverend Norman Dunlap said, “If you believe everything will be ok in the end, and it’s not ok, then it’s not the end.”

When you support Jim Fuller Farm, you become part of a family, and their mission isn’t just to sell good beef and hay, but to offer hope. It’s not the end.

I am surprised every day that people still do not know about Dining for Charities here in Columbus. WLTZ NBC 38 brought DFC to Columbus in the middle of 2018 and through their program has been able to donate over $110K to local nonprofit organizations. The program is also in Phenix City/Opelika/Auburn through WLTZ NBC 38. TIPS on the best way to enjoy DFC: Read the full description of each deal on our website. Some deals require you to spend a certain amount to use their savings. We never ask our deal partners to just “give away their business”. They are offering savings to their customers as a way to give back and support their community. WE mail a hard copy of the certificates to you. The mail usually takes 4 – 9 business days. However, sometimes the mail can take longer. UGH. Please reach out to us if you don’t receive your certificates in a reasonable amount of time. Dining for Charities is a great way to say THANK YOU to employees or customers. If you’d like to use DFC as a “gift program” please connect with us and we can customize something for you and your business. And if your business has it’s own non-profit organization then we can help you with that as well. It’s very simple. You can save 25 – 50% on services, a lot of restaurants, and at the same time you are giving-back to your community. 15% of every purchase goes to a local nonprofit. Here is a list of all the active deals you can access at www.diningforcharities.com. Look for deals under Columbus, GA and surrounding cities to find your best deals.

Activities

AMF Bowling (Auburn)

Blue Canary Records

Columbus Axe

Launch Trampoline Park

Max Fitness

National Civil War Naval Museum

Suncatchers

Urban Air

Ageless Medical Aesthetics

Hydralive Therapy

Max Fitness

Posh Nail Salon

Premier Chiropractic

Vita Nova

Edible Arrangements

Hazel Florists

11th and Bay

Baumhower’s Victory Grille (Auburn)

Bodega 1205

Big Mama Vietnam Kitchen

Build Yo Poke

Chicken Salad Chick (3) locations

Conquistador (Auburn)

Daiquiris & PoBoys

Pizzeria

Nancy’s Pizzeria

Papa Johns (6) locations

Butcher Paper BBQ

Mike & Ed’s BBQ

Moe’s Original BBQ

Smoke Bourbon & BBQ

Zombie Pig

Sushi Hero (Auburn)

OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR MEDICARE: WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?

Written by Bill Evans

Once again, it’s OPEN ENROLLMENT TIME for Medicare. To find out exactly what that means for you I sat down with Charmagne Preston, owner of CP FINANCIAL CONSULTING COMPANY.

BE: Charmagne, what changes are currently happening in the health insurance world?

Charmagne: “Some Medicare customers are experiencing increased costs for their prescriptions due to a new drug law that was passed. They may receive a bill in the mail indicating they owe a certain amount for specific medications. Additionally, some Medicare customers will notice a reduction in their benefits, such as the removal of food or eyewear allowances. And some insurance companies are no longer in-network with certain hospitals. So, there is a lot going on during this enrollment period.”

BE: Let’s talk about open enrollment.

Charmagne: “There was an open enrollment period for people under 65 looking for health insurance, and the deadline was January 15. However, there may still be opportunities to get health insurance due to special circumstances, such as moving to a new area, having a baby, getting married, or qualifying for low income. For those on Medicare Advantage Part C plan, there is also an open enrollment period from now until March 31. If they are experiencing unexpected prescription deductibles or reduced benefits, now is the time to make changes.”

BE: What happens if someone misses the open enrollment window?

Charmagne: “Great question. If someone under 65 misses the enrollment period, they may still qualify for special enrollment due to circumstances such as low income, moving to a new area, getting married, or having a baby. They should contact a Medicare specialist to find out their options.”

BE: Where can Georgia residents shop for Marketplace Health Insurance?

Charmagne: “Georgia residents under 65 can shop for health insurance through GeorgiaAccess.gov. I am available to assist with the process, as navigating it can be complicated.”

BE: Charmagne, as the owner of CP Financial Consulting Company, you are an expert specializing in Medicare Insurance and how it works. How can people reach you?

Charmagne: “The easiest way for people to reach out is simply call me at 706-525-5931. Call me for a free consultation.