Pooler Magazine Annual Health & Wellness issue

HEALTH & WELLNESS ISSUE

IN BUSINESS & HEALTH, JUSTIN MYATT IS FULL-STEAM AHEAD

January/February 2022

St. Joseph’s/Candler’s 84,000 square-foot campus, located on Pooler Parkway and I-16, combines hightech, digital technology and a high-touch friendly atmosphere for an unparalleled customer experience that completely re-imagines healthcare.

Services include: •

Surgical services (General Surgery, Orthopedics, Podiatry, ENT, Facial Plastic Surgery, Gastroenterology, GYN, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Robotic Surgery, and Vascular Surgery)

• Specialty Care Physicians (Cardiology, ENT, Facial Plastic Surgery, Neurology, OB/GYN, Podiatry, Vascular Surgery)

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Imaging (CT, MRI, Ultrasound, X-RAY, Mammography, Dexascan)

•

Urgent Care

• Independent Physician Practices (Coastal Empire Orthopedics, Gastroenterology Consultants, Low Country Cancer Care, Metro Surgical, Neurological Institute, Southeast Lung Associates, Thrive OB/GYN)

•

Primary Care Physicians

• Physical Therapy • Medication Management • Lab Draw Station

Based on high-tech innovations, convenience and the high-quality compassionate care that one has come to expect from St. Joseph’s/Candler, the Pooler campus redefines the patient experience and takes smart medicine to a whole new level.

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178 Basswood Dr., Savannah GA 31407 (located in the Highlands Area of Savannah)

CONTRIBUTORS 1. Cindy Reid is a graduate of Mills College in

Oakland, CA. She spent most of her career working with authors in the retail book business before becoming one herself. She has a daughter who lives in the state of Washington. A native of New York’s Hudson Valley, Cindy now makes her home on St. Helena Island.

2. Claire Sandow is a freelance graphic design

and marketing professional who lives in Savannah with her husband, daughter and two cats. She is a graduate of Georgia College & State University, where she received a degree in Mass Communication. In her spare time, she enjoys pursuing her many hobbies, including knitting, crocheting, quilting and running.

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3. Walinda “Linda” West is an accom-

plished communications executive and freelance writer with more than 30 years of experience. Based in Maryland, Linda and her husband are building a home in Pooler, where they will split their time.

4. Katrice Williams is a married mother of two.

She graduated from Georgia Southern University with a Business Administration Degree. She later decided to pursue her writing interests. Katrice appreciates the Lord Jesus Christ and the many blessings He has bestowed upon her. She loves spending time with her family.

5. Todd Wood is a multiple award winning pho-

tographer as recognized by the Georgia Press Association for his photography in sports, news feature and spot news. For 23 years Todd has taken an atypical approach to his photography and has had work featured in ESPN Magazine. Todd enjoys traveling and roaming the country in search of unique individuals and amazing landscapes to photograph.

6. Laura Zielinski is a freelance graphic

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designer specializing in print design. With more than 16 years experience, Laura enjoys shaping stories through meaningful design. When she’s not working, she loves spending time with her husband Keith and their three beautiful children, Alli, Matthew and Claire.

Jan Southern, DPA CEO/Publisher

Penny Redmond Distribution

7. Carter & Mabel, morale officers, are

inseparable siblings who enjoy roaming their backyard at home, sitting for hours on the back porch and coming to the office to greet visitors and encourage the staff. They love getting treats and taking long naps in their mommy’s office in the afternoons.

Christie Wilson Account Executive

WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! Please send your comments, questions and stories ideas to info@JDelSURMarketing.com.

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Your Community Website POOLERMAGAZINE.COM » MORE community information » MORE events & h appenings » MORE great stories about people, places and events from Your Community Magazine.

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IN THIS ISSUE

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

30 Features

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ABOUT THE COVER After a childhood marked by illness and surgeries, Justin Myatt has found a way to thrive both in his business and in his personal life.

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Justin Myatt In Business and Health, Justin Myatt is Full Speed Ahead

Goal Setting & Our Health How to Keep Health Goals on Track in the New Year

What is a Nutrition Therapist and How Can They Help Someone With Chronic Illness Malachi Roberts and The Marvelous Kids Foundation

Foundation Named in Honor of Local 8-Year-Old

Brings Awareness of Childhood Epilepsy to the Community

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Walking Trails in Our Community Local Trails Offer Free Fitness

David Legasse

Finding The Gift in Each Day

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Business Trends

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Top 6 Marketing Tactics to Adopt in 2022

Reimagining Taco Night Local Business Directory

Departments

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We want to hear from you!

Please send your comments, questions and stories ideas to Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com.

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

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Publisher’s Thoughts Pooler Events

PUBLISHER’S THOUGHTS

HEALTH & WELLNESS ISSUE JAN SOUTHERN CEO/Publisher Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com CHRISTIE WILSON Account Executive Christie@JDelSURMarketing.com LAURA ZIELINSKI Design PENNY REDMOND Distribution

Pooler Magazine is proudly produced by:

135 Goshen Rd Ext., Suite 251, Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 295-5406 PoolerMagazine.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Write to us and tell us what you think. Pooler Magazine welcomes all letters to the editor. Please send all letters via email to Jan Southern at Jan@ JDelSURMarketing.com. Letters to the editor must have a phone number and name of contact.

Phone numbers will not be published.

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS Pooler Magazine welcomes story ideas from our readers. If you have a story idea or photo essay you would like to share, please submit ideas and material by emailing Jan Southern at Jan@ JDelSURMarketing.com.

The start of the year always brings the possibilities for new beginnings. I don’t know about you but I am always hopeful, especially at the start of a new year. I don’t make resolutions. Been there.

Done that—without much success.

Instead, I take December to reflect on the past year and, by January I feel a sense of promise and I am ready for a fresh start.

We are happy to present you with our annual Health and Wellness issue! We are so grateful for our loyal readers and are excited for all the new Jan Southern residents and visitors to get to know our magazine as well. This issue is a wonderful reflection of the feel good stories and content we like to share.

If you are one to make New Year’s resolutions, this issue will be an inspiration. From fitness and health experts like Kerri Dodson, nutrition therapist, and Sunny and Jake Clough from DownHome Crossfit, this issue is full of great information to get the year off to a healthy start. You also won’t want to miss the two really incredible stories of resilience with our cover story on Justin Myatt and our story about David Legasse. Be sure to check those out for a little inspiration and positivity.

As always, we hope you enjoy this issue of Pooler Magazine as much as we enjoyed creating it for you. I am convinced that 2022 is going to be a remarkable year. I am excited to turn the corner on viruses, politics and all the negativity in the world. Let’s focus on health, success and good relationships in 2022. Who’s with me?

CEO/Publisher Pooler Magazine

Stories or ideas for stories must be submitted by email. Only feature stories and photo essays about people, places or things in the Pooler area will be considered.

CIRCULATION: Pooler Magazine is published bi-monthly and distributed to more than 250 locations throughout the area, as well as mailed to thousands of homes. The full magazine is available online at PoolerMagazine.com.

FIND US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK

Views expressed in editorial or advertising do not imply endorsement by J. DelSUR Marketing Group.

Reproduction in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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In Business & Health, Justin Myatt is

FULL SPEED AHEAD Story by Walinda West | Photos by Todd Wood

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efore he was five years old, Justin “So many times, we thought we were Myatt had endured more health going to lose him too, but he is here for a procedures than many undergo in a reason,” said Anna of her son’s resilience lifetime. At the age of a year and a half, he and strength. “We don’t give up.” had an unsuccessful surgery to correct a Hoop Dreams severe indentation in the wall of his chest.

While Justin didn’t complain about any At three, he went through a procedure to of his illnesses, the one thing the Rhode remove and repair an abnormal growth of Island native did complain about was his skin behind his eardrum that left him with stature.

He was shorter than his peers. partial hearing loss. Then, he had another “I prayed every night to be tall,” said surgery to remove his adenoids, which Justin, who loved the game of basketball doctors thought would solve the problems and envisioned playing the game in school with his ears; it didn’t work, either. And— and maybe one day professionally. as it turned out—that was the easy stuff.

As time went on, Justin got his wish Sitting in his paneled office in the garage for growth as he began eclipsing his peers that bears his name on Pine Meadow Drive in height—making him a real catch for the in Pooler, 33-year-old Justin is surrounded basketball team.

But those hoop dreams by awards, trophies, tee shirts and other would be short lived when a routine memorabilia proudly displayed like one physical revealed something concerning to would show off family pictures or other his doctor: he had a life-altering aneurysm beloved treasures. He is in his element, but of the aorta that would make basketball or he’s the first to tell you it wasn’t easy. any other exertive sports too risky and a “I always had a goal of having a strain on his heart. child and being married by 35,” he said.

In 2003, doctors concluded that “Realistically I know that I am lucky to be Justin’s heart condition was part of a new here and doing what I am doing.” diagnosis: Marfan syndrome.

On this day, he periodically glances down at a notebook on his desk where he Marfan Syndrome has jotted down the dates of his surgeries Marfan syndrome is a rare genetic and other health-related matters. disorder that affects the body’s connective “I can’t keep all this stuff together, so tissues—the parts I have it here so that hold the I can look at it, together but it still might Realistically I know that I am body and provides not be right,” he support to many lucky to be here and doing said. “You can of its structures. ask my mother. what I am doing.

As a result, many She knows all body systems this stuff,” Justin are affected joked. including the heart, blood vessels, bones, He’s right. He can talk about all things tendons, cartilage, eyes, nervous system, car-related like LS engines, LT engines, skin and lungs.

One major complication forced induction, turbo build, cam shafts of the condition is when the heart’s and cylinder heads, but surgery dates and arteries enlarge to the point in which all the procedures he has had to keep him tears occur. That confirmed diagnosis is alive are murky and best handled by his what sidelined Justin. mother, Anna Myatt.

Marfan syndrome is caused by a defect Anna, who had a stroke five years in the gene called fibrillin-1 or FBN1 that ago, apologized for her slurred speech, encodes the structure of fibrillin and which is undetectable to people who don’t the elastic fibers, a major component of know her. One thing is clear: she does connective tissue. According to the Marfan know every date, every doctor and every Foundation, about 1 in 5,000 people have procedure her son has had.

Marfan syndrome, including men and “That boy has been through so much women of all races and ethnic groups. About and he never complains,” said Anna as 3 out of 4 people with Marfan syndrome she recalled her son’s many hospital visits inherit it.

Many of Justin’s family members and stays. A twin, Justin was born three have the condition, which his mother said weeks early. Doctors determined during comes from her side of the family. his mother’s second trimester that his “My daughter has it and they have to twin had died, and she delivered both keep an eye on her, my father had it and boys together.

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three cousins had it too,” said Anna, who also has an aneurysm and is being monitored by her doctors.

People with Marfan syndrome are characteristically very tall and lanky— Justin is 6'5". Their arms, legs, fingers and toes may seem too long or out of proportion with rest of their body. Their spine may be curved and their breastbone may either stick out or be indented.

Abraham Lincoln is among the most well-known Americans with Marfan syndrome, discovered in the late 1800s

by French pediatrician Antoine-Bernard Marfan, who first described the skeletal abnormalities.

blood in, it was coming out,” added his mother, Anna. “This was the worst time of our lives. We really thought we were going to lose him,” she recalled.

The loss of blood required a second surgery and another diagnosis. Doctors discovered a cyst the size of a dumbbell behind the sac of Justin’s heart. His sternum became infected. Doctors removed Justin’s sternum, recommending that he have a prosthetic device put in its place since his ribs are essentially floating in his body with no structural protection for his heart. He is still waiting to have that surgery.

In 2013, he became a fleet mechanic at the Georgia Port, where he worked for eight years while working on cars during his free time. His ultimate goal, he said, was to open his own shop.

Reason to Live These days, Justin said his focus is clear and he doesn’t take a day of life for granted. Myatt’s Garage has exceeded his expectations, he said. He started out serving customers in Effingham, Pooler, South Carolina and Savannah. But because the high-performance car industry is a small, close-knit community, he is now catering to customers in Atlanta and Florida. His goals, he said, are to Move to Georgia race cars himself and to sponsor In 2005, the Myatt family car shows and events at his garage My goal is to be happy, healthy and moved from Rhode Island to in addition to working on cars. to take care of my daughter. Most Rincon for better job opportunities In addition to Justin’s growing for the family patriarch, Ernest business, he said he finds great of all, I want to be here for her.

Myatt, when Justin was 17. In strength in his daughter, Karlie, 2008, Justin’s condition declined whom he calls the love of his life. and the following year, he “She keeps me going.”

Hoop Dreams Become Car Dreams underwent open heart surgery to repair the For now, he is taking one day at a When Justin’s dream to become a aneurysm that had been diagnosed back in time. “I am in old-man status,” he joked, basketball player faded, another dream Rhode Island. Doctors needed to replace referring to his early bed time and healthy emerged: cars. Anna said her son got a damaged aortic valve, which helps keep routine. “My goal is to be happy, healthy the car bug from his older brother, who blood flowing in the correct direction and to take care of my daughter. Most of enjoyed tinkering with them. At 13, Justin through the heart, with a mechanical one. all, I want to be here for her.” said he bought his first car, a 1979 Mazda Justin quipped that the valve sounds like a Justin has advice to others who think Rx-7. From then, his cars became more ticking clock in his chest. the odds seem against them. “Continue to souped up and faster. be positive, take it day by day and keep the Lifesaving Heart Surgery vision of where you want to go,” he said.

A Paycheck for the Work He Loved Complications “No matter what comes about, with a goal Justin’s work on cars finally came with “I had to have 52 units of blood, and I in mind, you are always going to find a way a paycheck when he went to work for almost died three times. It was touch and to get there.” n Valvoline and Majestic Honda in Rhode go,” Justin said.

Island—and later Grainger Honda locally— “And just as fast as they were putting where he worked his way up to manager.

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GOAL SETTING AND OUR HEALTH

by Dean Carroll, owner of SoFit Gym in Pooler

H

appy New Year! Let’s talk about those goals that we set for ourselves each year. We typically state we want to save money or we need to lose the holiday weight and tone up.

Dean Carroll, owner For most, when we of SoFit Gym, Pooler set goals, we fail as we don’t have a plan to achieve those goals.

By the middle of February we are rolling along as we have done in years past and disappointed in ourselves for not sticking to the goals we had set.

Throughout 2020 and 2021, I have heard a lot of people who worked from home stating that they experienced weight gain from being at home and not going to the gym or being active.

While home gyms became very popular in 2020 and most of 2021, I believe there is still a place for brick and mortar gyms.

Benefits of Going to a Gym A major benefit of physically going to a gym is variety. You can basically do every exercise you want and need. Gyms offer your cardio from the stairmasters to building muscle with weights. Most gyms offer a range of machines for you to pick and choose such as treadmills, stairmasters, rowers, free weights and weighted machines.

Another benefit is the camaraderie with other gym goers. Working out in group settings or taking a yoga class can not only boost your motivation; but burn more calories, increase your commitment to fitness, accountability and make exercise fun.

Workout Variety Leads to Results Most people love to workout; however, when we don’t see the results, we get discouraged. The key to success is variety.

Without changing your routine regularly, your body becomes acclimated to your routine. I can honestly say this has happened to me more than once. I now have a personal trainer who writes my routines weekly and every week it changes.

One week I will lift heavy, then the next week maybe supersets, and the following week maybe drop sets. Each week, the order of the exercises changes and each week there is a change. I am in the best shape of my life.

How Personal Trainers Can Help Some of us need help getting started in the gym or may be in need of a new routine. This is where Personal Trainers (PT) can assist. As I mentioned earlier, hiring a personal trainer was one of the best decisions of my life and for the goal I was working for.

Some of the benefits of hiring a personal trainer would be: • Motivation/Personalized attention: Having a PT by your side can provide the encouragement and energy you need to cheer you on. A PT will hold you accountable/set goals and will create specialized workouts for your specific needs.

• Clarity/Education: A PT can provide you clear direction on your fitness journey as they remove any guess work from your fitness journey.

• Confidence: A PT allows you to become confident with how to perform the exercise.

• Aging gracefully: As we age, our bodies change and the exercises you

did a year ago may no longer be effective. A PT can assist with by adjusting or adapting your workout to fit your needs.

SoFit Gym Personal Trainer Corey Inman’s client Jessica says “Corey is an amazing trainer. He has helped me achieve my goals so far and loves our sessions. He works with my schedule, motivates and has a personal approach to our sessions. He is the BEST out there!”

Hope writes, “Initially I didn’t see the need for a personal trainer because I thought you could just look the exercises up on the internet. After hiring Corey as my PT, I realized that having someone regularly sees and tracks your growth is a better and more efficient way to achieve your fitness goals. Corey can give you that extra push when you are not feeling motivated because he knows what I am capable of doing.”

Jamal writes, “PT is like a road map for me, and Corey is my guide to reach my fitness goals. I enjoy PT with Corey because he is personable in nature and he is watching and recording my growth to help me achieve my goals.”

912.348.2014 | Sofitgympooler.com 1212 US Highway 80 E, Pooler

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Savannah’s premier group of ear, nose, and throat professionals, specializing in total care of head and neck disorders.

Main Office: 5201 Frederick St., Savannah | Satellites: Pooler, Statesboro, Southside Savannah

Ears, Nose & Throat Associates of Savannah, PC 912.351.3030 entsavannah.com From left, top row: Dr. Michael Zoller, Dr. Fred Daniel, Dr. Stephen Rashleigh, Dr. William Moretz; bottom row: Dr. Brad Rawlings, Michelle Yamada, PAC, Kristen Thomas, PA-C and Dr. Jennifer Miles

WE SPECIALIZE IN comprehensive medical and surgical treatment for problems of the ear, nose, throat and related structures of the head and neck, including treatment of allergies and sinusitis, sleep apnea, thyroid and parathyroid disease and voice and swallowing disorders. We also treat pediatric ENT patients for a variety of problems, including chronic ear infections and tonsillitis.

Our skilled audiologists provide the latest in hearing-aid technology at Audiology and Hearing Aid Services. We utilize the latest ENT technologies, such as balloon sinuplasty for treatment of sinusitis, radiofrequency ablation of the tongue base for treatment of sleep apnea and endoscopic techniques for thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy.

FOR THE CONVENIENCE OF OUR PATIENTS we have a state-certified Ambulatory Surgery Center, are fully privileged at Savannah-area hospitals and offer early morning and Saturday appointments. We have satellite offices in Pooler, Statesboro and The Landings.

WE TREAT each patient and set of symptoms individually because we know what works best for one patient may not work best for another. We take the time to create an individualized approach to your ENT health, working to improve your conditions and quality of life. We want you to feel comfortable and confident understanding your treatment plan.

Our health coach will walk you through each step of your treatment plan, surgery or other procedures to ensure you are healing and improving.

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ONE VISION. ONE COMMUNITY. ONE CLUB.

SAVANNAH UNITED WEST COACHING STAFF: Chris Stevenson (Boys Program Director) Robert Long (Girls Program Director) Mackenzie Stewart Cameron Chastain Jonathan Tiggs

Brad Singer Jackie Chen Binyam Araya Dakota Paradice David Shyrock

Soccer, known as football outside of the United States, is one of the world’s most popular sports.

Millions of people all over the world are enthused by this unique sport. The origins of this sport can be traced back to the second half of the 19th Century in Great Britain. The sport is prevalent in Europe and South America, and it has enjoyed growing popularity among Americans.

In all truth, we can all agree that soccer is not the USA’s most popular sport. Basketball, American football, and baseball hold the top spots. This, however, doesn’t mean that the popularity of soccer as a sport in the USA is stagnant. Soccer has now taken over as the most participated sport at the youth level and in this area, we are starting to see more and more people gaining interest in it. Effingham County has experienced a shift from the usual sports, and now a record number of youths are looking for a soccer club to call home.

Savannah United is a soccer club with a proven history for growing the game in Savannah. They're now excited to expand the Savannah based club into Effingham County with their newest branch, Savannah United West. Leading the expansion will be Effingham native and Program Director, Robert Long.

“Having played soccer at its earliest stages in Effingham County, I can say that the game in our area has really come a long way,” said Long. “With our team of Directors—Gary Wright, Keith Gunn, Jeff Storey-Pitts, Paul Smith and Chris Stevenson—we will keep pushing Effingham forward and in a short period of time, we will become the best youth soccer provider in our area.”

“With the passing of SPLOST this November, County Leaders Jamie Deloach and Clarence Morgan have soccer growth topping their list of upcoming recreation projects. They know that new soccer fields are a must if Effingham is to satisfy the demand.”

“Our head coaches are all highly accomplished and have a true passion and love for the sport. The game has provided us so much more than we ever expected, it’s taught us valuable life lessons and the connections we’ve made as both player and coach are irreplaceable,” said Long.

Currently, Savannah United West offers School of Excellence, Academy and Select soccer programs.

TO JOIN, please contact Robert Long at R.Long@SavannahUnited.com or register at SavannahUnited.com/West

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Tune in to the It’s ALL Marketing Podcast A Podcast for Local Business About Local Business Hosted by Dr. Jan Southern LISTEN NOW!

Interview with Tripp Sheppard, President of the Bank of Newington in South Georgia

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ItsALLMarketingpodcast.com

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• Baseball 5-14 • Softball 7-12 • T-Ball (Girls 4-6, Boys 4) • Spring Soccer 4-12 • Fall Soccer 4-12 • Youth Basketball 5-13 • Summer Basketball 9-13 • Adult Sports • Tumbling 3+ $45 • Dance 3+ $50/$60

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Interview with Melissa McBride Stille of Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage

Seeking Volunteers For Coaching

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Seeking Sponsorships For Our Youth Teams

What is a Nutrition Therapist and How Can They Help Someone with Chronic Illness?

By Kerri Dodson, Master Nutrition Therapist

There is no question that there is a need for several different types of health professionals in this modern time when many are plagued with different illnesses.

Most people understand the function of a Nutritionist. Nutritionists counsel clients on healthy eating habits. A companion to the Nutritionist is a Dietitian. They help with disease-related malnutrition. The emerging Kerri Dodson, Master Nutrition field of the Nutrition Therapist, Master Health and Therapist takes a holistic— Wellness Coach looking at the whole body— approach to treating chronic illnesses through whole food nutrition and targeted supplementation.

What Differentiates a Nutrition Therapist?

A Nutrition Therapist, also known as a Holistic Nutrition Professional, places a priority on nutrient density and biochemical individuality. They receive a clinical education— upwards of 1100 hours plus continuing education credits—in order to provide science-based nutritional advice.

Nutrition Therapists are educated to focus on which foods are highly reliable sources of the essential nutrients and how those nutrients interact within the human biochemical environment.

A Nutrition Therapist also understands that certain foods may be more or less beneficial for each individual based on their unique biochemistry, illnesses and health needs.

What I offer as a Nutritional Therapist As a Nutrition Therapist, I focus on my client’s specific illnesses and the mechanism driving that illness.

I work with my clients on individualized nutritional protocols in order to dial down that mechanism to facilitate improvements in their health.

I specialize in nutritional protocols, lifestyle adjustments and supplements for chronic illnesses such as autoimmune diseases, type II diabetes, hyperlipidemia, high blood pressure and early onset dementia.

Where medication may mask or reduce the presence of symptoms, I work with my clients to eliminate what is causing their specific health problems. Nutritional deficiencies and excesses along with lifestyle are the major contributing factors to chronic illness.

I tell all my clients, there is no neutral bite of food. Each bite either promotes health or promotes illness. I can work with you to promote health. www.nutritioncoachkerri.com | 770-722-9580 nutritioncoachkerri@gmail.com

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T

here’ase Johnson’s eight-year-old son Malachi Roberts shows those around him the beauty found within a pure heart. “Malachi wants to make other kids happy. The foundation makes that happen,” There’ase said of her son and the Marvelous Kids Foundation.

The selflessness and courage Malachi exemplifies at his young age is simply remarkable. He has become a real hero in the fight against childhood epilepsy.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder in which brain cells send abnormal signals and cause seizures.

In 2016, the Marvelous Kids Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, was founded in honor of Malachi, who was diagnosed with epilepsy in 2015 when he was two years old. The foundation’s mission is to bring awareness to childhood epilepsy in local communities, including Chatham, Effingham and Bryan Counties.

Malachi Roberts and the Marvelous Kids Foundation Story by Katrice Williams

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In the Midst of Adversity One night, as There’ase prepared her then two-year-old toddler for bed, he became completely motionless and unresponsive in her arms; he also began to convulse and was unable to talk.

“It was a huge and terrifying experience. I didn’t know what was going on or if he would be okay.”

There’ase and her mom Cheryl Johnson called 911. Over time, Malachi weathered extensive medical tests and procedures as the he endured similar episodes on a relatively consistent basis. There’ase and her family remained hopeful to find answers. Malachi was referred to Scottish Rite Hospital in Atlanta, where he was finally diagnosed with epilepsy, and more specifically, frontal lobe seizure disorder, named for a type of seizure that stems from the front of the brain.

Malachi was also diagnosed with a second type of epileptic seizure, one which has yet to be medically named.

There’ase and her family have learned more about the condition since that first frightening episode, striving to build and maintain a strong and loving support system for Malachi.

“I’m learning how to be of assistance to him when he’s going through the seizures and after he’s had them. I’m learning to cope with it better. He encourages me, saying, ‘It’s okay. I’m fine.’”

There’ase recalls Malachi once saying, “One day, I’m going to make a medicine so that all the kids with epilepsy won’t have seizures anymore, and we will all be fine.”

baseball, soccer and karate over the years and likes to play basketball in his backyard. He is an avid reader who wants to be both a doctor and a lawyer one day.

There’ase teases him that he will have to maintain a lot of balance for that. He also says that he also wouldn’t mind becoming a zookeeper. Malachi loves animals— especially anacondas. However, they pale in comparison to his favorite of all—his service dog Bentley, a Cocker Spaniel that has been with him for nearly three years.

“They’re crazy about each other,” Cheryl said.

have attended. Other local officials have participated, including Savannah Mayor Van Johnson, along with other citizens throughout the Lowcountry.

Small Child, Big Heart In addition, Marvelous Kids hosts Big things often come in small “Hoops for a Cure,” an annual benefit packages. Malachi has always had a big basketball game held in May at the Garden heart, especially for other children living City Gym. Several Harlem Globetrotter with epilepsy. legends from cities across the country have “I think it’s great to do stuff for kids. come to show their support each year.

When I was in the hospital, people helped Larry “Gator” Rivers, a Globetrotter great, me,” Malachi said. He loves donating to help is responsible for initially spreading the others, particularly to the Dwaine & Cynthia word to the other Globetrotters.

Willett Children’s Hospital of Savannah and One of Malachi’s favorite events all Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. year is the Christmas Toy Drive held each December.

The Marvelous Kids The foundation raises funds Foundation I think it’s great to do stuff for kids. When to donate toys to Memorial Jonathan Johnson is Health University Medical I was in the hospital, people helped me. the CEO and founder of Center for Christmas.

Marvelous Kids Foundation.

Malachi even donates his own He is also Malachi’s uncle, allowance toward the cause.

All for the Cause who spearheaded the cause after seeing He loves handing out gifts to children The foundation persists in helping the effects of epilepsy on his nephew. He there, once reminding his nana, “When families affected by epilepsy cope and sought to make a difference in the lives of I was in the hospital and didn’t feel well, increase their understanding of the all children affected by the disorder. people brought me toys.”

Talk about disorder by providing them with beneficial “This means the world to me. I want understanding the Golden Rule! communication and resources. The to show the kids that this makes them foundation began a support group in 2019 unique and daring and that they’re not Sincere Gratitude alone. I want to show them that they’re not at the Bull Street Library in Savannah, The family appreciates all the venues that though the initiative was postponed due to limited and can do things like other kids. have extended their generous support over the pandemic.

I want them to see that they’re loved, not the years, including Southern Girl Trucking, Flyers are dispersed to various venues helpless,” he said.

Home Depot, JanSport, Macy’s, Target, throughout the area while informative Further, There’ase and Gina Rhodes, Walmart and Sam’s Club, to name a few. handouts are given to schools; social media her godsister, actively participate in the “We appreciate them all!” Cheryl said. is used as a beneficial outlet. foundation. Malachi’s nana Cheryl has Malachi is a little boy with a really big In 2018, the foundation began hosting supported the cause from day one, as heart who, at his young age, is already various annual community events to she has always been committed to her making a remarkable difference in the world. support the cause. “Walk a Mile for grandson’s health and recovery.

For more information on ways to Malachi” is a benefit walk usually held donate to Marvelous Kids Foundation, each April in Garden City, beginning Just a Normal Kid email Marvelouskidsfoundation@gmail. in Sharon Park. Several Garden City Malachi enjoys all the regular things com or call (912) 349-9725. n officials, including Mayor Don Bethune, that most kids like doing. He has played

“

“

There’ase marvels at the fortitude her young son exhibits. “The drive he shows, in spite of his circumstances, is phenomenal,” she said.

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022 21

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WALKING TRAILS IN OUR COMMUNITY Local Trails Offer Free Fitness Story by Cindy Reid

24

A

s 2022 arrives, many of us include getting fit as a goal in the New Year. There is literally no easier­—or more enjoyable—way to get started than to get walking! Walking is the perfect way to increase your activity level and, as an added bonus, it’s absolutely free of charge.

Walking is a good way to start getting active if you’ve been inactive, and most people experience positive changes in their health and mood soon after starting a regular walking routine. This can bring additional benefits, including lowered blood pressure and help in maintaining a healthy weight. It’s an exercise with a

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

low risk of injury. In fact, walking can strengthen muscles and bones.

All it requires is comfortable clothes, decent weather, good sneakers, and a safe place to walk. You can make it fun by exploring new places and walking with a friend or pet. Some people like indoor walks—like a mall walk—but most people enjoy finding an outdoor area to stretch their legs and connect with nature.

A walk requires little to no planning, but safety is important. So take your phone and ID with you and let someone know your walking time and route. Hydration is also vitally important so don’t forget to bring a full water bottle on the trail. Many

people listen to music via ear buds as they walk but keep the volume low so you stay aware of your surroundings.

Many community parks have amenities, such as playgrounds or fishing piers, in addition to walking and biking trails. Some of the areas listed below have restrooms onsite but due to Covid-19 precautions the restrooms may be closed.

Living in a temperate climate means we can enjoy the outdoors all year, luckily for us there are many fun and interesting trails in our area, some well-known and some “off the beaten path”. We have also included a sampling of biking trails, so grab your water bottle and get moving!

IN POOLER Tom Triplett Community Park, 1335 US-80, Pooler 1.5 mile Jogging/Bicycle Paved Track with Fitness Course. This is a community park operated by the Chatham County Parks & Recreation Department. Amenities include a freshwater lake, two fishing piers, tennis courts, a playground, a disc golf course and a dog exercise area.

Pooler Recreation Complex, 200 Preston Stokes Dr., Pooler Primarily baseball fields, a football stadium, two gyms and a playground, and the Lost Woods Disc Golf Course. There is not a designated walking trail but there are walking opportunities via the playing fields and disc golf course.

Berkeley Park, Gateway Dr, off E. Haven Rd, Pooler A small neighborhood park that is best known for the large, enclosed dog park. There is a smooth paved walking track that winds around a pond. www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022 25

NEARBY Baker Lake 224 Courthouse Rd, Springfield 1 mile concrete Walking/Jogging path with fitness stations all the way around the pond with picnic benches, tennis courts, a playground, covered grill area and tennis courts. No pets.

Guyton Main Street Rail Trail 230 Central Blvd, Guyton The .75 mile Walking/Jogging/Bicycle rail trail runs through the heart of Guyton, connecting much of the town's streets. The trail consists of two parallel 6-foot-wide paved paths and extends from the red caboose. There is parking at each end of the trail, the address below is for parking at the caboose. There are benches and trash bins on the trail.

J.F Gregory Park 521 Cedar St, Richmond Hill A 335-acre multi-use recreational area that was once home to a rice plantation before being purchased by Henry Ford. The Park has a 3-mile-long nature trail, as well as a Wetlands Education Center, the restored home of Henry Ford, a birding trail with a tower, a 10-acre lake, and a covered pavilion. There are regular fitness stations along the hiking trail.

Chatham County Wetlands Preserve Nature Trail 6811 Basin Rd, Savannah 1.3 mile trail located near Savannah that is good for all skill levels. A gravel road circles the 20- acre lake, which also features a dock. There are picnic tables, some under shelter. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. The Preserve is located off Highway 17. Tip: When you turn off on Hwy 17, continue driving until you get to a fork in the road. The gravel parking lot is to the left.

L Scott Stell Park 195 Scott Stell Rd, Savannah 1.0 Walking/Jogging/Bicycle Paved Track with Fitness Course. Amenities include Pavilions, Lighted Tennis

Courts, Lighted Basketball Courts, Fresh Water Lake, Boat Ramp and Fishing Pier, Five Base-ball/Softball Fields, Volleyball Play Area, Archery Range, Dog Exercise Area and Playground.

Lake Mayer 1850 E. Montgomery Crossroads, Savannah 1.5 Walking/Jogging/Bicycle Paved Track with Fitness Course. Amenities include Pavilions, Lighted Tennis Courts, Lighted Basketball Courts, Fresh Water Lake, Boat Ramp, Fishing Pier, Base-ball/Softball Field, Lighted Hockey Rink, Volleyball Play Area, Handball Practice Court, Dog Exercise Area and Playground.

Daffin Park 1301 E Victory Dr, Savannah 1.5 paved sidewalk and rubberized trail around the perimeter of Daffin Park. The rubberized trail is perfect for runners. The concrete sidewalk is eight feet wide and has no incline, so it is handicapped accessible. There is also a .3 mile lighted sidewalk around Daffin Lake.

Forsyth Park 2 W Gaston St, Savannah This superb urban park is located at the southernmost end of Savannah’s historical district. Paved, lighted sidewalks are handicapped accessible and surround the city’s most popular walking trail. The distance around the 30-acre park is 1.5 miles. The iconic Forsyth Park fountain is located on the north end of the park.

New River Linear Trail 3809-3835 Okatie Hwy, Bluffton, SC 3.4 mile trail in Bluffton, South Carolina. The route is shared with power lines along an abandoned railway corridor and is known for wildlife and the long dormant rice canals that can be seen at the New River end. The parking lot is accessible off of S.C. Route 46 between the two entrances to the Heritage at New Riverside development. The parking lot is connected to the New River Linear Trail by a short mulch path.

BIKING TRAILS There are many ways to enjoy biking, from pleasant rides on wide, paved urban trails to mountain bike challenges and our area has trails that suit every skill level and interest. This is just a sampling of some of the trails you can explore by bike. Follow the same safety procedures as you would for walking, bring your water bottle, and have fun!

Tom Triplett Bike Trail 7.5-mile mountain bike loop trail located at the Tom Triplett Community Park, Pooler GA. Savannah & Ogeechee Canal Trail 681 Fort Argyle Rd, Savannah 7 mile trail starting at the Savannah Ogeechee Canal Museum & Nature Center, both paved and dirt roads along the Savannah and Ogeechee Canal. There may be a fee for park usage.

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

Skidaway Island State Park 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah There are two bike trails, the 3 mile Big Ferry Trail and the 1 mile Avian Loop trail.

Pinckney Island Ride Rt 278, Hilton Head, SC 6.8 mile loop trail that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. n

LEARN MORE ABOUT LOCAL WALK & BIKE TRAIL: www.savannahga.gov/760/Walking-Trails-Bike-Paths www.traillink.com/city/pooler-ga-trails www.railstotrails.org/experience-trails/benefits-of-trails www.twowheeledwanderer.com/posts/how-to-start-mountain-biking LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF WALKING: www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/walking

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022 27

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D

avid Legasse has a message: If you feel something, say something. That advice saved his life Diabetes has been a part of David Legasse’s life for more than a decade. In that time, he has learned to live with the disease and knows the signs that indicate his sugar levels are too high or too low—when he needs something sweet or when a complete meal is in order.

Last year, the owner of The Salt Table shops felt something different. The then-71-year-old, who was generally in good health, was feeling more tired than usual and had experienced an episode of feeling faint, which sent him to see his primary care physician at St. Joseph’s/ Candler’s Primary Care in Pooler.

Legasse’s doctor, Knar Mesrobian, who practices family medicine and has seen Legasse since 2018, became equally concerned over his new symptoms.

“She listened to my heart and didn’t like what she heard,” Legasse said. “I’ve had a heart murmur all my life and I had told her about that, but she didn’t like the way it sounded this time.”

A Doctor’s Life-Saving Catch Legasse said Dr. Mesrobian knew that fatigue was an unusual symptom for him because he is typically full of energy. Blood work revealed nothing to indicate another problem, so Dr. Mesrobian assumed Legasse’s heart was the source of his new complaints. She immediately referred him to a cardiologist for further evaluation.

“It was Dr. Mesrobian’s observation that something wasn’t quite right during my checkup and her referral to the heart team may have very well saved my life,” Legasse said. He said he is certain that he is living today because Dr. Mesrobian listened to him.

“She pays attention,” Legasse said. “I know she’s incredibly busy and treats all her patients the same, but when I’m there I feel like I’m the only thought on her mind, like there’s no one else in the office but me.”

Dr. Mesrobian said that as she gets to know her patients, she is often able to pick up on both significant and subtle differences in their health—differences the patients may not have recognized.

“I’ve had patients come to simply establish care, but in their preliminary screening, we’ll find diabetes she said. “And they’ll have no idea because they feel fine. I tell patients continuity and preventative care are important. Consistency gives us a home base.”

Had Legasse just continued on, not worrying about getting his heart checked, who knows what sort of consequence that might have had, Dr. Mesrobian said. Legasse said he knows exactly what may have happened. “I don’t know that I’d 30

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

DAVID LEGASSE: Finding The Gift in Each Day Story by Walinda West | Photos by Todd Wood

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022 31

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

be sitting here today,” he said. “I feel like I owe my life to her.”

Diagnosis Dr. Mesrobian told Legasse that she believed it was a good idea to get a specialist involved, especially since the risk for heart disease goes up as you age and the practice didn’t have much historical information on his murmur.

An ultrasound revealed Legasse had moderate-to-severe valvular disease.

Valvular heart disease is when any valve in the heart has damage or is diseased.

The normal heart has four valves or chambers that keep blood flowing in the right direction. In some cases, one or more valves don’t open or close in the proper way which causes blood flow through the heart to the body to be disrupted.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 2.5% of the U.S. population has valvular heart disease, but it is more common in older adults.

While some people with valve disease are symptom-free, symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness or fainting, fever, rapid weight gain or irregular heartbeat.

Treatment Treatment for valve disease depends on the heart valve affected and the type and severity of the disease. The condition may be treated by medication or in some cases, the disease requires surgery to repair or replace the heart valve.

Within just a few days of his recovery, Legasse said he was able to take long walks through his neighborhood. After a week he was back at work, with cardiac physical therapy for four weeks post-surgery.

“The heart hospital team was absolutely fantastic,” Legasse said. “I don’t think you can find better medical help anywhere.”

Since Legasse’s surgery, he said he has been preaching the importance of listening to your body to anyone who will listen. Picking up on those cues, he said, saved his life.

“I have made this a crusade,” he said. “I have had several people say ‘you’ve made me pay more attention to my health.’” His advice to his friends is the same advice he took himself. “Go in for regular visits and if something is bothering you and it’s unusual, don’t put it off.”

Just eight months after his surgery, Legasse said he feels great. He went into his 72 birthday in November 45 pounds lighter. Legasse said he doesn’t feel his age and joked that he is told he looks much younger than his physical age.

Adjusting Life & Business Priorities Heart surgery, coupled with a pandemic that has kept customers away from brick-and-mortar stores all around the country, forced Legasse and his wife, Carol, to reevaluate and reimagine The Salt Table, which features the couple’s own brand of salts, seasoning blends, teas, sugars and other flavors. With six stores in the area, The Salt Table celebrated its 10th anniversary this year.

Compared to when the store first started, which depended on foot traffic, 25% of its sales are now online. Legasse said this is the company’s biggest and most profitable year to date.

“With Covid we had time to reevaluate and think things through. As a result, those decisions have paid off,” Legasse said.

Legasse said his illness has given him an appreciation of all the things that matter to him. “You can’t take anything for granted,” he said. “I am not an evangelist, but I have a strong belief that God was watching over me. What I know is that every day is a gift.” n

WARNING SIGNS OF A HEART ATTACK Don’t wait to get help if you experience any of heart attack warning signs. Some heart attacks are sudden and intense. But most start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Pay attention to your body and call 911 if you experience: • Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes – or it may go away and then return. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

• Shortness of breath. This can occur with or without chest discomfort.

• Other possible signs, including breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

For more information about heart conditions, visit www.heart.org.

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022 33

Speech, occupational and physical therapy services for children.

Playing with Purpose Check out our FREE developmental screening tool at chatterboxpeds. developmentchecklist.com

912.988.1526 | chatterboxpeds.com 110 Pipemakers Circle, Suite 115, Pooler, 912.988.1526 2453G US Highway 17, Richmond Hill, 912.445.5612

THE RIGHT BLEND OF INNOVATION AND CUSTOMER SERVICE HERE IN POOLER

The Salt Table—a “Savannah Original”—is not only a unique brand of hand-blended salts and seasonings made in their own facility, it’s also home to hundreds of other flavors, including loose tea, sugars, honey, oils, vinegars, snacks, coffee, jams, and more.

Founded in 2011 by Carol and Dave Legasse, The Salt Table is an award-winning company. Their unique approach

to business and proprietary products brought them the coveted Trip Advisor ‘Traveler’s Choice’ Award (2020) for maintaining outstanding customer reviews, and they have been featured in national publications and television programs.

Carol says, “At the Salt Table you’ll find wonderful local food products found nowhere else, and a friendly knowledgeable staff ready to assist.”

Some Salt Table shops offer award-winning wines and, the new Savannah Airport Spirits Shop even has distilled products from local distilleries and makers.

LOCATIONS: Pooler | Downtown Savannah | Savannah/Hilton Head Airport | Jekyll Island | Savannah Convention Center

(912) 988-1059 | www.SaltTable.com 34

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

Providing the Very Best in Pet Care!

• Stylish Essentials • Plush & Tough Toys • Collars & Leashes • Full-Service Grooming • Healthy Pet Foods • Gourmet Baked Treats

Locally & Veteran Owned Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Pooler

100 Blue Moon Xing, Pooler, GA 31322 • (912) 450-6600

POOLER DAY SPA FOCUSES ON WELLNESS Sunny Salzman-Clough and her husband Jacob own Down Home Crossfit in Pooler, and she is also the owner of Pooler Day Spa as well.

As a businesswoman, mother, wife and fitness instructor, Sunny knows the importance of balancing a busy life with selfcare and total wellness routines for overall health.

That is one of the reasons she loves owning Pooler Day Spa. The attention to detail and focus on wellness is what makes this spa experience so different.

Pooler Day Spa is a full-service spa featuring many wellness services, including: • Facials • Massage • Hot stone • Cupping • Waxing • Dermaplaning • Plus many other luxurious services Pooler Day Spa uses organic products—which are also available for purchase—that come in the most delectable scents, and each customer’s experience is carefully crafted to ensure they have the best experience possible and feel the ultimate in relaxation.

When she is not overseeing Pooler Day Spa, you can find Sunny at her other passion, Down Home Crossfit.

POOLER DAY SPA GIFT CERTIFICATES ARE AVAILABLE!

912.348.2381 PoolerDaySpa.com 447 Pooler Pkwy, Pooler 36

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

THE MAN BEHIND THE CROSSFIT MADNESS It’s no secret that CrossFit can present challenging workouts to its members. But what most do not know is that the programming element that goes into those workouts is far more complex than just what you see before you on the whiteboard.

This is what you will learn when you ask head programmer and owner of Down Home CrossFit Jake Clough to explain how he develops his programs at the gym.

Each workout, strength cycle and accessory movement is part of a larger picture that he has been cultivating for more than 11 years.

One of the reasons the members at Down Home see such great results in all areas is Jake’s vision. With a background in exercise science, numerous certifications, and over 100,000 workouts written, the proof is in the results.

But it’s not just about understanding the science, it’s about knowing your members. Great workouts do not matter if they don’t meet people right where they are. A fact Jake knows well.

Designing workouts for a mass group—while keeping it challenging for all, safe for beginners, and effective for everyone—isn’t an easy task. However, if you ask anyone at Down Home, they will tell you this is exactly what they get!

If you’re looking to switch up your fitness routine in 2022, we encourage you to check out Down Home CrossFit.

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912.667.0554 DownHomeCrossfit.com 118 Pipemakers Circle, Suite 102, Pooler www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022 37

Kirkland’s Flooring Offers Quality and Customer Satisfaction Kirkland’s Flooring has been committed to quality and unbeatable prices for the past 20 years starting in Evans, Ga, but they never planned on just stopping there.

Kirkland’s Flooring was not new to the Savannah area as they started doing new construction work in 2009. So in July 2020, Kirkland’s Flooring decided to lay down roots in the lowcountry and opened their Savannah showroom. Located less than a mile from the popular Tanger Outlets, it is arguably in a perfect location in the ever-growing Pooler area.

In their beautiful showroom, they exclusively sell Evacore Waterproof Floors. These luxury floors are designed for comfort and to be lived on.

Waterproof Click looks exactly like real hardwood, but it’s low-maintenance, stain & water resistant and affordable. No wonder it is quickly becoming the #1 flooring consumers choose!

Why choose Kirkland’s Flooring?

Kirkland’s is here for you every step of the way! They are a full service and complete turn key company from start to finish.

Founded on quality, customer service, dedication to product knowledge and a standing reputation, they have always and will continue to focus on their crews leaving their customer’s homes with a lasting impression of a job well done.

With business in the lowcountry flourishing, you can say that Kirkland’s Flooring Pooler location is another great success story for the company of 20 years and counting. Today, Kirkland’s continues to be committed to quality and offering a greater selection with unbeatable pricing that simply can’t be matched by big box stores.

Now in Pooler (on Benton Blvd, 1.5 miles from Tanger Outlets)

912.200.7914 kirklandsflooring.com 1775 Benton Blvd, Savannah

We are HEAR for you Pooler! Happy New Year! n AHAS has over 50 years combined experience with only Doctors of Audiology n We have all price points and can meet any budget n We have all the top-quality hearing devices on the market today n No interest 18-month payment plans available n Let us check if your insurance company has a benefit for hearing aids n Ear Nose and Throat physicians on site n The office is open for walk-in cleanings or minor problems 5 days a week

Call to make your appointment!

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

1000 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD, SUITE #200 SAVANNAH

SKIDAWAY ISLAND POOLER

912-748-0110 www.poolerchamber.com PO Box 708 305 W. Collins St, Pooler, GA

SO MANY OPPORTUNITIES AWAIT IN POOLER The Greater Pooler Area Chamber of Commerce is in the people business! We are committed to nurturing positive relationships within the city so that we all prosper. We are excited and hopeful for 2022 and have many fun and informative events planned throughout the year. Here are just a few of the scheduled and upcoming events we have in store:

2022 EVENTS Check our website for upcoming dates, times, and details for the following events throughout 2022: January • Business After Hours at Cambria, January 20

August • Economic Outlook Event

February • Job Fair—Lunch & Learn, February 7

September • Pooler Patriot Weekend • Business After Hours • Sunset Shopping in the Park

March • Business After Hours • Sunset Shopping in the Park • St. Patrick’s Day Parade Shuttles

October • Sunset Shopping in the Park • Halloween Contest • Hearts for Heros Gala

April • Sunset Shopping in the Park

November • Business After Hours • Sunset Shopping in the Park • Be Thoughtful & Thankful Campaign for Compassion and Generosity • Toys for Tots • Donation drive (gently used items)

May • Sunset Shopping in the Park • Lunch & Learn • Business After Hours June • Food Truck Fest & Marketplace July • Business After Hours

December • Annual Dinner • Breakfast with Santa • Holiday Festival

As you support local businesses through your activities in our city, you are supporting neighbors just like you. Shop owners, restaurant leaders, medical professionals, and more.

Your patronage makes Pooler what it is today. A wonderful place to eat, shop, play and stay.

Visit PoolerChamber.com often for details about our upcoming events, our members and more. www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022 39

BUSINESS TRENDS

Top 6 Marketing Tactics to Adopt in 2022

By Dr. Jan Southern, J. DelSUR Marketing Group

H

ave you noticed how quickly technology is moving these days?

It seems like last week I was using a Blackberry device and browsing a bookstore when I needed to learn how to do something.

Now, I just pull out my iPhone and the answer is at my fingertips.

If you are a business owner, you may have noticed that marketing is moving at a fairly fast pace these days as well.

Luckily, I love this industry. I am a marketing nerd. It is my passion and I love sharing what I know with my clients. If I don’t have the answer, I am confident I have a colleague or business partner who does.

As part of this mild obsession, I stay current on the latest trends.

One of the biggest issues facing marketing today is the changes to third party cookies from Google. Google will be ending the ability to track consumers via cookies.

If you don’t know what that means, it’s okay. You may be using a marketing consultant to handle these things for you and that is great. You don’t have to worry about what to do now that Google is yet again, changing how we do business. You just need to know that they are.

What it means for consumers is they will have a bit more control over their privacy online.

What it means for your business is that you will have to get more creative and also be sure to have direct information about your customers

40

rather than relying on algorithms and other tracking to tell you about a buyer’s behaviors online.

2022 will bring even more changes to marketing for business. Below are a few areas to focus on now.

1

Start with a Strong Brand

As you will see from #2 and #3 below, marketing is going to get even more competitive and challenging in the near future. No amount of social media posting, advertising or networking will trump a bad brand image. Invest time and resources into having a solid brand—both visually and with the brand experience

you engage with on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. will disappear if those social media platforms go away or decide to stop allowing you to access them.

Think about it. Do you have another source to reach out to those contacts other than on the social media platform?

If Facebook went away today, can you contact that person who asked a question about your product two hours ago? The answer is no. Facebook owns that contact.

Now more than ever, it is important to use a CRM system and gain more data on your customers and prospects rather than relying on Facebook to do the work for you.

3

Find Other Ways to Reach Your Audience Besides Social Media

consumers and clients have when they interact with your company. Is your message targeted to specific audience types? Is the voice and tone used for your company consistent across all platforms?

Do your employees speak in a consistent way when representing your brand? Are you providing the level of quality and service that you tout in your marketing and advertising? If not, do this before anything else. A strong brand is the foundation for everything else.

2

Take Back Your Audiences

I have been shouting this from the rooftops (well not literally) for months now. We do not own our contacts on social media. In other words, all those people

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

I know this is painful for many small business owners. We rely on social media to reach our potential customers. It is cheap, easy and we can see the results of our efforts within hours if not minutes.

But it is a noisy place. Did you know that only 2-3% of your followers even see what you post on your page? And with 6 million companies on Facebook competing for their attention, it can be difficult and expensive to stand out from the crowd.

Don’t get me wrong, social media is still a critical tool in our marketing arsenal. But now is the time to start thinking about broadening your weapons so that you are not left behind in 2022. If you would like some fresh ideas, be sure to read my article on Local Marketing at JDelSURMarketing.com/local

4

Get Personal

Our customers have many choices as to where to get their information. They are quite savvy and expect you to know

their specific wants and needs. More and more, they are ignoring cookie-cutter marketing messages. It is important to understand what your customers like, where they spend their time and how they get information (i.e., Facebook, retail stores, hobbies, etc.).

Also, address them by name in emails, messenger or when they walk into your store. Spend some time building your buyer personas (customer avatars) for each of your ideal customers or those customers that buy most often. We have a worksheet to help with this. Feel free to email me for a free copy.

5

Embrace Marketing Automation

Marketing automation is the use of online platforms and software to streamline marketing efforts and allow you to reach your audiences in multiple ways more easily. This will change your life and your business—trust me.

But a word of caution, don’t subscribe to these platforms without having a solid marketing plan before you choose your tools. (see #6)

6

Is YOUR Business Ready for 2022?

Have a Marketing Plan

Don’t spend a dime on marketing or advertising before doing this. In my business, I see so many owners and managers deciding on advertising or social media marketing without really knowing why they are doing it or what they want people to know about their product or service. They know they need to promote their business so they just put something out and it isn’t impactful, memorable or all that effective.

Have a strong brand (see #1) and have a marketing plan before anything else. Even if your plan is just one page and gives you a strategy for the next 3 months, be strategic in your efforts. This will save you valuable time and money in the long run.

If you would like a short course on how to create a marketing plan, email me at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com and I will send it to you for free. n For more details on how to effectively and efficiently promote your business, visit JDelSURMarketing.com.

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

REIMAGINING TACO NIGHT

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WALNUT “CHORIZO” TACOS Total time: 40 minutes | Servings: 2 Pickled Vegetables: 1/2 cup fresh lime juice 1 1/2 tsps sugar 3/4 tsp sea salt

8 radishes, thinly sliced 2 medium jalapeno peppers, thinly sliced 1 large clove garlic, t0-hinly sliced

Tacos: 16 whole wheat tortillas olive oil thinly sliced romaine lettuce

fresh cilantro leaves lime wedges

Walnut Chorizo Crumble: 1 1/2 cups black beans, rinsed and drained 2 cups California walnuts

3 tblsps olive oil, divided 1 tblsp white vinegar 1 tblsp smoked paprika

1 tblsp ancho chili powder 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp kosher or sea salt

1 tsp ground chipotle 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander

INSTRUCTIONS 1. To make pickled vegetables: In small bowl, stir lime juice, sugar and sea salt. Stir in radishes, jalapenos and garlic slices; let stand 30 minutes to pickle.

2. To make walnut “chorizo” crumble: In food processor, pulse beans and walnuts until coarsely chopped. Add 2 tblsps oil, white vinegar, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, chipotle, cumin and

coriander; pulse until mixture is finely chopped and resembles ground meat, stirring several times and moving mixture from bottom of food processor bowl to top to evenly mix.

3. In large nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat remaining oil. Add “chorizo” mixture and cook 10 minutes, or until mixture is browned and resembles ground meat, stirring frequently.

4. To prepare tacos: Brush each tortilla lightly with oil. On skillet over medium-high heat, cook briefly to brown on both sides, keeping warm in foil until all tortillas are cooked.

5. Remove pickled vegetables from liquid and discard garlic slices. Fill each tortilla with equal amounts “chorizo” and pickled vegetables. Garnish with lettuce and cilantro; serve with lime wedges.

WALNUT-STUFFED KOREAN STREET TACOS Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 8 Walnut “Meat”: 2 cups California walnuts 2 tablespoons gochujang (red chili paste) sauce 2 tablespoons sesame oil

2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Marinated Vegetables: 4 green onions ice water 2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar 1 tablespoon honey 1/4 English cucumber, sliced thin

1 watermelon radish, sliced thin 1 cup carrots, cut into matchsticks fresh cayenne peppers, sliced thin (optional) 1 1/2 teaspoons black sesame seeds

Crema: 1 cup Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon hot chili sauce

1/4 teaspoon sea salt 8 whole-wheat tortillas

1 bunch cilantro 2 fresh limes, cut into wedges

1/2 cup California walnuts

INSTRUCTIONS 1. To make walnut “meat”: In food processor, pulse walnuts to coarsely chop. In skillet over medium heat, add gochujang sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic and ginger. Add walnuts and stir. Turn to low heat, cover and keep warm.

2. To make vegetables: Cut whites off green onions and discard. Slice greens into thin strips

and place in bowl of ice water. In bowl, stir vinegar and honey. Add cucumber; radish; carrots; peppers, if desired; and sesame seeds.

Stir to combine.

3. To make crema: Mix yogurt with chili sauce and salt.

4. Warm tortillas. Scoop 1/8 walnut meat into

each tortilla. Spoon cream on top of walnut meat. Add marinated vegetables and green onions.

5. Top tacos with cilantro, squeeze of lime juice and walnuts.

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022 43

(912) 737-2935 trishacook.com /TrishaCookRealtor 920 Morgans Corner Rd. Pooler, GA 31322

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

912-348-2520 www.mosoutherncollection.com 3130 Highway 80, Suite B Bloomingdale, Ga.

912-728-6720 www.totalserviceshvac.com 222 Boone Rd, Guyton, GA 31312

NEW LOCATION, NEW SERVICES FOR QUEENSBOROUGH CUSTOMERS Queensborough National Bank & Trust has 27 locations throughout eastern Georgia, and its newest location right here in Pooler will offer the latest technologies, an open concept lobby and customer-focused bank staff ready to serve the community. Truly, the only one of its kind in the area.

Opening in January, Queensborough’s Pooler branch at 1559 Pooler Parkway will be staffed with Universal Bankers rather than traditional teller and customer service representatives. Customers will be able to have a dedicated person helping them manage all their banking needs. This will allow for efficiency and convenience as well as enhanced customer service from start to finish.

“Expanding into Pooler is a natural progression of our local growth plan. This

level of investment is a demonstration of our long-term commitment to the community,” said Mike English, Senior Vice President and Coastal Region Manager. “We already have a number of customers in Pooler, and this is the ideal location from which to serve our customers and attract new business with our style of community banking.”

The new location will be led by Branch Manager Tony Gray, Commercial Lender Brian Dart and Universal Bankers Riley Young, Keasha Harris and Kate Saldarriaga. Harris is also the processor.

The convenient drive-thru at the Pooler location will have two QNBTNOW ITMs which feature teller assistance via live video stream as well as normal ATM function for deposits, withdrawals, loans and credit card payments, fund transfers,

and more. With QNBTNOW ITMs, customers can reach a live teller during extended hours, including Saturdays.

Founded in historic Louisville, GA in 1902, Queensborough National Bank & Trust serves customers with branches in Augusta, Savannah and throughout the rural corridor between these cities.

The bank was named Best Small Bank in Georgia 2021 by Newsweek and will celebrate 120 years of community banking in 2022.

(912) 856-2233 | www.QNBTRUST.bank 1559 Pooler Parkway, Pooler

Other Local Branches: 7393 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Savannah; 216 US Hwy 80 West, Garden City; 597 Hwy 21, Rincon

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022 45

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

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Dewitt Tilton Group Shows Gratitude to Firefighters with Thanksgiving Meal Donation

D

ewitt Tilton Group, an awardwinning commercial and industrial construction firm in the Southeast, served a Thanksgiving-week meal to Pooler firefighters on Monday, Nov. 22, at the Pooler Fire Department, 1093 S. Rogers St. The Dewitt Tilton Group team personally served up a catered holiday feast from Jim ‘N Nick’s BBQ in Pooler. Firefighters and support staff enjoyed smoked turkey breast, smoked country ham, a choice of seasonal side dishes and of course, pecan pie.

Chris Tilton, co-principal of Dewitt Tilton Group, is happy to continue a tradition his company started four years ago.

“These are real hometown heroes and sacrifice so much to keep this great community safe.

We’re just happy to be able to show our appreciation for all they do,” Tilton said.

This is the fourth year Dewitt Tilton Group has provided meals to first responders during the week of Thanksgiving. The tradition began in 2018 when the company was much smaller and located in Thunderbolt, Ga. “We’re thankful to be a part of this community and we’re grateful for this wonderful meal,” said Wade Simmons, Chief of the Fire Department for the City of

Pooler. “We often like to say that we’re just doing our jobs, but the gesture of gratitude is wonderful.”

The ongoing tradition underscores the sense of partnership between public and private entities to both build and protect the rapidly expanding Pooler community.

Dewitt Tilton Group recognizes the importance of that spirit and how it shines during the holiday season.

“We have a great relationship with the City of Pooler and the Fire Department.

The cooperation we get is outstanding.

With this meal, we’re just happy to let them know how much they are appreciated,” Tilton added.

About The Dewitt Tilton Group The Dewitt Tilton Group, an award-winning construction company in Georgia and the South Carolina Lowcountry, specializes in commercial and industrial construction. The principals, Andrew DeWitt and Chris Tilton have more than 50 years of combined experience in the local construction industry. The firm manages every aspect of a project from pre-construction to the final walkthrough.

Known for using highly reputable contractors, the Dewitt Tilton Group brings to the table design, engineering and construction capabilities, which guarantees a smooth construction process for each client. Dewitt Tilton Group partners with two other local companies, MacAljon and CBM Concrete, on each industrial project to ensure the highest quality of work.

The firm is headquartered at 119 Canal St. Suite 106 Pooler, GA 31322. For more information or to contact the Dewitt Tilton Group, please call 912.777.3404 or visit www.dewitttiltongroup.com.

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022 47

POOLER EVENTS

Janury20

1/6: Stretch Zone Ribbon Cutting 4:00 - 6:00 pm | Stretch Zone, Pooler

1/14: Saturday Worship Gathering 6:00 - 7:30pm | Relentless Church, Pooler

14

1/14: Savannah Hockey Classic 12:00 - 4:00pm | Relentless Church, Pooler

1/15: Space STEM Family Day

15

10:00am - 3:00pm National Museum of the Mighty Eighth

1/15-1/16: Trevor Noah EnMarket Arena, Savannah

1/17: Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade 10:00am | Savannah

1/21: Kaleigh Courson 8:00 - 10:00pm | Wild Wings Pooler

Februay20

1/22: GriefShare Grief Recovery Support Group 9:00 - 11:00pm | Rothwell Baptist Church

2/4: Taking Care of Business While Minding Yours 8:30am - 2:30pm First Presbyterian Church, Pooler

2/11: For the Love of HipHop Mega Concert 7:30 – 11:30pm | Enmarket Arena, Savannah

2/12: Valentine’s Pop Up Vendor Event 9:00am – 2:00pm Goshen Park Commercial Center, Rincon

2/24: The Girl Who Stepped Out of Line Author Talk 11:00am | National Museum of the Mighty Eighth

2/26: 4th Annual Pooler MOPS Touch-ATruck 2022 12:00 – 4:00pm | 200 Preston Stokes Dr, Pooler

Find more events and happenings at PoolerMagazine.com.

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PONKO Chicken is Winning Pooler Over From the day Japanese Fusion, fastcasual restaurant, PONKO Chicken, opened in November it has been winning Pooler resident’s hearts and stomachs over!

In addition to PONKO’s award-winning “Eats Meets West” Chicken Tender which became an instant favorite, the Tacos, made with a choice of PONKO Chicken, grilled chicken or tofu tenders, and served with slaw, onions, cilantro, jalapeño crema on a flour tortilla, have become known for their “cravability” factor. The PONKO Chicken Sandwich has also become one of the most popular offerings. Served hot and crispy with their signature slaw on a potato bun, it definitely satisfies your hunger and your tastebuds.

All of these offerings, in addition to the variety of dishes on the Kids Menu, make PONKO a fast, healthy option for a weeknight family meal. Guests can even order online and pick up their family meal on the way home from work.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled with the response we’ve gotten since we opened, says PONKO Chicken Pooler owner Steve Mills. “In just the short time we’ve been open, the majority of people who have

dined with us once have already come back to dine again, and most have been back several times,” Mills continues.

PONKO Chicken’s catering has also become a local favorite for corporate events and parties. Their Taco Bars, Chicken Tender Platters and array of freshly made salads and sandwiches highlighted events around town during the holidays. PONKO has also become known for catering to Vegans, Vegetarians and those living a Gluten-free lifestyle.

With their focus on healthy dining, PONKO Chicken only uses Rice Bran

Oil to prepare all of their food, due to the fact that it is known to help lower cholesterol, boost the immune system, protect heart health and has a host of other benefits.

PONKO Chicken Pooler is located at 405 Pooler Parkway, between Starbucks and McAlister’s, and is open for lunch and dinner from 11am until 9pm Sunday through Thursday and 11am through 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. For more information, please visit www. ponkochicken.com

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022 49

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Please thank these advertisers for contributing to our community and making this publication possible. If you want to be part of this list, email Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com or call 912.295.5406.

COMMUNITY SPONSORS Badcock Home Furniture & More | EMPWR Solar, Clay Copeland JDH Decks & Fences | LowCountry Foundation Repair | Mo’ Southern Pinspiration Pooler | ServPro of Savannah | Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage Trisha Cook Realty | Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming

Advanced Alternative Medicine............................. 29 Affinity Integrated Solutions - Tyler Proctor....... 42 Amazing Kitchen Cabinets and Refacing............ 46 Angel Learning Center...............................................3 Badcock & More........................................................15 Baked by Maggie...................................................... 44 Bellis Health and Wellness Spa.............................. 29 Benchmark Mortgage............................................. 49 Buenos Cleaning Services...................................... 44 Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy................................ 34 Clean Juice Pooler................................................... 29 Crossfit Groundspeed............................................. 44 DownHome Crossfit................................................ 37 Effingham County Chamber of Commerce....... 28 Ellen Claire Soapery....................................... 44 & 46 ENT Associates..........................................................14 Geico - Rick Spinks.................................................. 22 Great Oaks Bank........................................................12 HalleluYAH Restoration............................................15 It’s ALL Marketing Podcast......................................18 J. DelSUR Marketing Group......................... 40 & 44 Kerri Dodson..............................................................19 Kirklands Flooring..................................................... 38

50

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022

Lawn Doctor.............................................................. 49 Magic Insurance ...................................................... 34 Miller Coins & Currency.......................................... 28 Mo’ Southern....................................................12 & 44 Pink Lady Cleaning................................................... 22 Ponko Chicken......................................................... 49 Pooler Day Spa......................................................... 36 Queensborough Bank....................................45 & 52 Savannah United........................................................16 So Fit Gym..................................................................13 Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage..............................51 St. Joseph Candler - Pooler Campus.....................2 Streets & Sons Tire and Auto Repair..................... 22 The Ice Cream Stop................................................. 42 The Salt Table............................................................ 34 The Trisha Cook Team............................................. 44 Thomas C. Strickland and Sons............................ 22 Total Services Heating & Air................................... 44 West Chatham YMCA.............................................. 23 Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming........................... 35 World of Smoke........................................................ 49 Wrights Wicks............................................................ 44

Melissa McBride Stille of Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage, LLC

“I’m here to help at no charge to you.”

MELISSA MCBRIDE STILLE WORKS FOR YOU When it comes to health insurance, Melissa knows her stuff. She has been in the health insurance industry for 13 years, an independent insurance agent for four years and the sole proprietor of Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage since 2020.

With specific expertise in Medicare and the Health Insurance Marketplace, she works tirelessly to match her clients with the best health care options available. Not everyone’s needs are the same, therefore their plans and options will be different. “I do as much fact finding for individuals as I can and because my clients range from 20 to 90 years old, each one is different,” Melissa says. “I ask questions about doctors, prescriptions, anything relevant, to learn my clients’ specific health care needs so we can make the best match.”

As a specialist in Medicare—the federal health insurance program for recipients over and under 65, including those who qualify through Social Security Disability—Melissa can help navigate the sometimes difficult and complicated program. She also works with people utilizing the Health Insurance Marketplace® and some group insurances.

Next Open Enrollment Dates: Medicare: Oct. 15- Dec. 7, effective Jan. 1, 2022 Health Insurance Marketplace: Nov 1- Dec 15, effective Jan 1, 2022 (you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to a life event such as losing other coverage, getting married, or having a baby.)

You may be able to get more savings and lower costs on Marketplace health insurance coverage due to changes in the law. Under the new law, most people currently enrolled in a Marketplace plan may qualify for more tax credits, resulting in lower premiums.

Melissa states, “More people than ever before qualify for help paying for health coverage, even those who weren’t eligible in the past. Staying within their budget is crucial to most clients so I present multiple options enabling them to make educated decisions. Don’t assume anything—call me and we can go over your options. “ Customer Service “Insurance is complex and can be stressful for many people. ‘What do I need to do?’, ‘how do I plan for this?’ are common questions. I am here to help at no charge to you,” Melissa says. “There is never a bill for my services because I am paid by the insurance companies. I work for my clients, not the insurance company.”

Melissa reviews her clients’ health policies yearly because there are annual policy changes. She is dedicated to ensuring they get the best possible policy for their needs. She even gives every client her cell number—it is also on all of her advertising so that every client, even future clients, can feel comfortable reaching out to her. “If you get a bill that you don’t understand, call me, text me a picture of it and together we will figure it out. My commitment to you continues after you enroll in a health care plan. I am here for you.”

Due to current health/pandemic circumstances, Melissa may be out of the office helping clients or working from home, so please call her on her cell—(912) 239-7119—for an appointment.

Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage, LLC Cell (912) 239-7119 | www.StilleYourAgent.com Melissa@StilleYourAgent.com | 5877 Hwy 21 South, Rincon

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2022 51

Proud to be Pooler's Qmmunity Bank For 120 years, we’ve been honored to provide financial services for our local community.

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