Pooler Magazine New Year's issue

NEW YEAR’S ISSUE

Maria Huntoon

Beyond Sit & Stay

Read every issue online!

January/February 2026

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IN THIS ISSUE 5

Publisher’s Letter

10 Beyond Sit and Stay: The Holistic Magic of Maria Huntoon 15 The Corner Table

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18 Smart Money Moves: Budgeting & Saving in 2026 22 The Secret to Getting Fit in 2026 26 Kendrick Joshua is on track for the Bulldogs 34 Pooler Happenings 39 Mom-ing Unfiltered | Grace, Giggles, & a Little Chemical Help

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45 Calendar of Events

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Read all the stories and more at PoolerMagazine.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Alycia Caldrein, Gail Mihalik, Gail Parsons, Stephen Prudhomme Cindy Reid, Jessica Neeley PHOTOGRAPHERS: Leidy Lester, Scott Douglas Miller CEO/PUBLISHER: Jan Southern, DPA DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING: Christie Wilson | ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Kelsey Harrison | OFFICE MANAGER: Chris Antonio DESIGN: Laura Zielinski | SOCIAL MEDIA: Leidy Lester | DISTRIBUTION: Penny Redmond

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PUBLISHER’S THOUGHTS

New Year’s Issue PUBLISHER Jan Southern Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com 912-318-8645 CLIENT SERVICES Christie Wilson, Director of Advertising Christie@JDelSURMarketing.com Kelsey Harrison, Account Executive Kelsey@JDelSURMarketing.com OFFICE MANAGER Chris Antonio DESIGN Laura Zielinski DISTRIBUTION Penny Redmond

Pooler Magazine is proudly produced by:

135 Goshen Rd Ext., Suite 251, Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 295-5406 PoolerMagazine.com J. DelSUR Marketing Group is the publisher of Effingham Magazine, Pooler Magazine and Bryan County Magazine in South Georgia. We are a full service marketing agency with products that include print, digital and social media marketing.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Write and tell us what you think. Pooler Magazine welcomes all letters to the editor. Please send letters 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 Phone numbers will not be published.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 photos to share, please submit ideas and material to Jan Southern at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com.

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 hundreds of locations throughout the area, as well as mailed to thousands of homes. The full magazine is available online at PoolerMagazine.com.

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.

There’s no denying it—Pooler is growing fast, and with that growth comes a fair share of frustration. New developments, more traffic, changes to the places we’ve always known—it can feel overwhelming at times. I hear it from readers, neighbors, and business owners every week: it’s not always easy to keep up.

But here’s what stands out Jan Southern to me—despite the challenges, Pooler and its people are more resilient than ever. People are still looking out for each other, supporting local businesses, and finding ways to stay connected as our city changes around us.

At Pooler Magazine, our goal is to keep telling the real stories behind the headlines. We want to share stories of the individuals who are overcoming challenges, accomplishing great things or giving back to the community in a unique way. Growth and change bring discomfort but it also brings new opportunities and new voices.

We’re committed to covering both—the hard parts and the hopeful ones—because both matter to the future of Pooler.

As we move into a new year, let’s keep the conversation honest.

Let’s acknowledge what’s tough but also stay focused on what we can accomplish together. Pooler’s best days are built on the strength of its people, and that’s something worth holding onto.

Thanks for sticking with us and for being part of this community.

CEO/Publisher Pooler Magazine

Meet Kelsey Harrison We are excited to introduce Kelsey Harrison, Account Executive at J. DelSUR Marketing and Bryan County Magazine. Kelsey consults with clients on marketing and advertising strategies, helping coordinate both print and digital campaigns for businesses across the region.

She also brings experience as a licensed real estate agent, adding another layer of local expertise to our team.

Kelsey lives in Guyton with her husband, Nevada, and is a devoted stepmom. Please reach out and welcome Kelsey to the team!

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Beyond Sit and Stay

The Holistic Magic of Maria Huntoon Story by Gail Mihalik | Photographs by Dreamweaver Photos

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f you’ve ever wondered what your dog is really trying to tell you, meet the woman who seems to speak fluent canine. Maria Huntoon—Pooler’s holistic Dog Whisperer and founder of MGH Canine Consulting—has developed a training philosophy that goes far beyond teaching a dog to “sit” or “stay.” Her work invites owners into a deeper, more insightful understanding of their pets, one that blends behavior, wellness, communication, and the delicate harmony between dog and human.

A Childhood Rooted in Animals Maria’s connection to animals began long before she made it her profession. She was born in a quiet corner of New York’s Hudson Valley, the type of place where nature sets the rhythm of the day and critters of all sorts wander freely. She didn’t just grow up around animals—she drew them in.

As her family likes to tell it, Maria was the Pied Piper of the neighborhood. If a stray cat, a curious dog, or even a wandering turtle was nearby, you could bet it would end up trotting behind her. Her parents never quite knew what new “friend” might stroll into the house when she walked through the door.

That early magnetism shaped her curiosity: not just what animals did, but why they did it. Why was one dog shy? Why did another bark at shadows? Why did some animals trust immediately while others held back? Those childhood observations planted the seeds for the work she does today.

The Path to a Holistic Philosophy Though Maria once dreamed of becoming a veterinarian, life nudged her in another direction.

Financial limitations made vet school unrealistic, so she turned to communications and psychology—fields that, without knowing it then, would become central to her future methods.

During high school, she worked in a veterinary clinic, an experience that deepened her love for animal wellness but also revealed a gap. Traditional medicine could treat wounds and cure infections, but behavior?

Emotions? Trauma? Fear? Those weren’t things you could fix with a pill.

Maria would later say that this realization was pivotal. She began to see that many problem behaviors were symptoms, not the core issue. A dog that growled might be scared. A dog that chewed the couch might be anxious or under-stimulated. A dog that jumped on guests might be seeking reassurance, not attention.

This perspective led her down a different path— one that blends science with intuition, structure with empathy, and behavior modification with true relationship-building.

Real-Life Transformations: When Understanding Changes Everything Maria’s philosophy comes to life most vividly in the stories of the dogs—and the people—she works with.

Each case reveals a deeper truth she repeats often: “When the owner shifts, the dog can finally breathe.”

One of her recent clients, Freeda, shows just how powerful that shift can be.

Freeda’s Trust-Building Journey Freeda, a rescue greyhound from Spain, arrived in her new home carrying more than just her past—she carried deep fear. Her new owner, Matt, adored her instantly, but Freeda wanted nothing to do with him.

She avoided him around the house, stiffened when he

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2026

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entered a room, and reacted nervously whenever someone new appeared.

Matt’s instinct was to close the gap by encouraging her to come closer, to pet her, to reassure her—an understandable reaction from a loving human but exactly the pressure Freeda couldn’t handle. Instead of feeling comforted, she felt cornered.

That’s where Maria stepped in.

She taught Matt to do something that felt almost counterintuitive: back off. Stay calm. Avoid direct eye contact. Sit nearby without forcing interaction. Let Freeda make the first move—even if that took days or weeks.

“Fearful dogs need room to choose a connection,” Maria told him. “And your job is to be a safe, quiet space for her to land.”

Slowly, Freeda began to change. She went from hiding behind furniture to watching Matt from a distance. Then, one day, she walked beside him. Weeks later, she joined him and his other dogs on the beach, relaxed and happy, taking in the ocean air without fear.

A year after that first session, Freeda was a completely different dog—secure, trusting, and bonded with the man she once ran from. Her transformation wasn’t just the story of a fearful rescue finding her footing. It was the story of an owner learning to let go of expectations and create space for trust to bloom.

Looking at the Whole Dog Maria’s approach stands out because it’s genuinely holistic. She never isolates a single behavior; instead, she evaluates the entire ecosystem surrounding the dog.

Diet and nutrition play a critical role—if a dog’s body is out of balance, it’s difficult for them to function or learn

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effectively. Just like humans, when they don’t feel well, their ability to cope or “show up” is limited, making proper nutrition essential for overall behavioral health.

She also examines emotional triggers, stress levels, and coping habits, digging into the “what” and “why” behind a dog’s reactions. Just as important are the subtle communication cues that owners often miss and the owner’s own habits, energy, and responses. All of these elements form a complete picture, and Maria works to align them so both dog and human can thrive together.

To Maria, a dog is never “misbehaving.”

They’re communicating. And like any relationship, miscommunication can cause problems on both sides.

She often compares dogs to children: “If a child throws a tantrum,” she says, “you don’t punish the tantrum—you figure out what’s underneath it. Dogs deserve the same understanding.”

The Shades of Gray At the heart of Maria’s work is the belief that dog training isn’t black and white. It lives in the murky middle— the “shades of gray,” as she calls it—where every behavior carries its own story. Two dogs may look identical in what they do, yet be worlds apart in why they do it.

Consider a dog who refuses to come when called. On the surface, it seems simple. But beneath that moment could be a dozen different possibilities: fear that freezes the dog in place, distraction from an overwhelming environment, overstimulation that makes it hard to focus, the echoes of past trauma, uncertainty in the relationship with their owner, or straightforward confusion about what the command even means. Sometimes, it’s a tangle of several factors layered together.

Maria’s work is to read between those lines. She observes the posture, the breath, the hesitation, the energy.

She listens to what the dog is saying without words. Then she guides owners to see those nuances too, bridging the gap between human intention and canine communication.

In doing so, she helps both dog and owner feel seen, understood, and grounded—often for the first time.

Trust: The Quiet Bridge Between Dog and Human Trust, Maria says, is the invisible thread that ties dogs and humans together. It’s not taught with commands or earned through control; it grows in the soft spaces between understanding and vulnerability, where both dog and owner learn to exhale.

She doesn’t lean on dominance or rigid drills. Instead, she nurtures connection. She listens for the language a dog speaks without words, then teaches owners to hear it too— the flick of an ear, a shift in breath, the hesitation that tells a whole story. She reshapes environments so they soothe rather than overwhelm, encourages owners to celebrate small victories, and helps them build routines that feel like steady ground beneath their dog’s feet.

To Maria, a balanced dog is not one who simply obeys but one who feels safe in their skin—emotionally, physically, and socially. When trust takes root, fear loosens its grip,

communication becomes fluid, and the relationship becomes something deeper than training: it becomes partnership.

Guiding Owners as Much as Dogs Maria often says her work is half dog behavior and half people psychology, and anyone who’s watched her teach would agree. She gently reminds owners that Rome wasn’t built in a day—and neither is trust. She encourages them to slow down, to offer space instead of pressure, to reward the quiet moments of calm, and to allow their dogs the grace to process the world at their own pace. Consistency, she tells them, is the compass that keeps the journey steady. By the end of a session, many owners realize they’re the ones who have been trained, a truth Maria welcomes with a knowing smile.

The Quiet Purpose of Her Work For Maria, the goal is simple yet profound: create happier dogs by creating healthier relationships. She believes that when owners truly understand the emotional and psychological needs of their pets, everything changes— stress diminishes, behaviors improve, and harmony returns to the home.

“Dogs want to connect with us,” she says. “My job is to help people meet them halfway.” ■

Maria is setting up a new Substack for people to reach out to her and learn more about the behaviors of their dogs: substack.com/@mariaswholedogwisdom. Check it out! Also, learn more about her and how she helps benefit owners and pups on her website: mghcanineconsulting.com

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2026

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The Corner Table Pooler & Chatham County

by Gail Mihalik

Terra Mia Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you—Terra Mia proves that great food is about what’s on the plate, not the sign above the door. Housed in a former Waffle House just off Highway 80, this family-run Italian spot is quickly earning a reputation among locals for its authenticity and warmth.

Step inside, and you’re greeted not just by the aromas of simmering tomato sauce and fresh-baked bread, but by a staff that’s attentive and genuinely welcoming. The dining room is cozy, the atmosphere relaxed—an ideal setting for comfort food done right.

As someone who grew up just outside New York City, I have high standards when it comes to Italian cuisine. Finding those familiar flavors in the South isn’t easy, but Terra Mia delivers. We started with a glass of wine and their homemade garlic knots—pillowy, fragrant, and the kind of starter that makes you linger over the menu.

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For appetizers, the prosciutto and mozzarella salad was fresh and balanced. But the real test came with the gnocchi. I hadn’t tasted gnocchi like my grandmother’s in years, but Terra Mia’s version nailed the texture and flavor—light, with just the right amount of potato, and not drowned in sauce. While the dish usually comes with a creamy tomato and basil sauce, the kitchen graciously accommodated my request to try the Buonogustaro sauce (sausage, peppers, onions, tomato basil) over the gnocchi instead. It was a standout.

My partner opted for the gluten-free pasta with puttanesca sauce (hold the anchovies, add capers). He noted the pasta’s excellent texture—no graininess, just a satisfying bite—and the sauce had a pleasant kick.

Generous portions meant we left with leftovers—always a win. Terra Mia is a welcome addition to Pooler’s dining scene, offering real Italian comfort food in a setting that feels like home.

Hungrily yours,

Chef Gail www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2026

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SMART MONEY MOVES: Budgeting & Saving in 2026

By Jessica Neeley

Do you know how much money you spent last month? Do you know what you spent your money on? With 49% of Americans living paycheck to paycheck (and that number on the rise due to the economy) it’s more important than ever to manage your personal and business finances to stop or mitigate potential financial struggle in the future.

The New 2026 Budgeting Mindset Apps and AI tools make tracking your money easier than ever, digital payments give you real-time transparency, and financial planning has become more efficient.

A successful 2026 budget begins with mindset and clarity.

That means knowing exactly what money is coming in, where it’s going, and how it aligns with the life you want to live.

Know Your Numbers: The Foundation of 2026 Savings Before you can save more, you need to understand what you’re working with. A simple three-step snapshot will help: 1. Monthly Net Income: What you actually bring home after taxes (aka what is actually deposited in your bank account).

2. Fixed Expenses: Housing, utilities, insurance, debt payments, subscriptions. These shouldn’t surprise you each

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month—if they do, it’s time to audit and simplify.

3. Variable Expenses: Groceries, gas, dining out, kids’ activities, unexpected “life happens” items.

The simplest way to do this is to download an app like Mint, Good Money or Rocket Money and connect your accounts. Or if you are a paper and pen person, print your checking account statements for the last 3-6 months and calculate each category.

Once you’ve identified the big picture, look at the patterns.

Are you overspending in one area? Do you need better limits?

Are there monthly expenses you don’t even use anymore?

This foundation allows you to build a 2026 budget that is both realistic and supportive of your goals—whether that’s paying off debt, saving for a home, growing your business, retiring early or enjoying more financial freedom.

Modern Budgeting Systems That Actually Work In 2026, the most effective budgets are the simplest ones.

Here are three systems I recommend: 1. The 50/30/20 Rule • 50% Needs • 30% Wants • 20% Savings + Debt Payoff This classic system still works, but adjust the percentages based on your cost of living. If housing or insurance takes up more, shift your wants category down a bit.

2. Zero-Based Budgeting (The Clarity Method) Every dollar has a job. This method gives you total control, perfect for people who like structure or who are rebuilding their finances.

3. Cash Flow Buckets (The Automation Method) Separate accounts for: • Bills • Spending • Savings • Business or side-hustle goals Automation ensures your savings happen without willpower or remembering anything.

Digital Tools That Save Time—and Money 2026 offers more financial tools than ever. A few favorites: •

AI-powered budgeting apps that categorize your spending automatically.

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High-yield savings accounts now paying competitive interest rates.

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Round-up saving tools that turn spare change into meaningful money.

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Price-tracking apps that ensure you never overpay online.

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Cashback browser extensions that earn money quietly in the background.

Use technology to your advantage. Let it do the heavy lifting so you can stay focused on the bigger financial picture.

The 2026 Money-Saving Playbook If you want to save more this year, don’t just hope for it— plan for it. Here are 5 core strategies that work today and will keep working:

1. Audit Your Subscriptions Every Quarter Most households waste anywhere from $20–$60 a month on unused subscriptions. That’s up to $720 a year you could be saving without sacrificing anything.

2. Meal Plan Like a CEO Food waste is one of the biggest money drains.

Planning meals not only saves money—it saves time and stress. Using simple, repeatable meal plans cuts your grocery bill dramatically.

3. “Buy Ahead” During Sales Stock up on items you know you’ll use—paper products, pantry staples, toiletries—only when the price is at its lowest.

4. Implement No-Spend Days Pick one or two days a week where you don’t buy anything. It resets your habits and keeps the impulse purchases away.

5. Prioritize Experiences Over Things This is a mindset shift that supports your financial goals while still enjoying your life. You don’t have to spend big money to make memories.

The economy may shift, prices may change, and unexpected expenses will always show up. But when you have a budget that reflects your values, savings strategies that work automatically, and a mindset rooted in confidence—not pressure—you position yourself for longterm financial stability.

You can financially win 2026, you just need consistency, clarity, and a plan. And with each smart money move, you get one step closer to the freedom, peace, and opportunity you deserve.

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2026

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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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THE SECRET T Story by Cindy Reid

The Power of Community In an era where digital tools such as Tik Toc, YouTube, and Instagram have opened access to fitness instruction, the true game-changer for 2026 will be the power of community.

Instead of going it alone with apps or online videos, there is a growing interest in communitybased activities that combine fitness with fun, flexibility, and social connection.

People are rediscovering the value of inperson group classes, local fitness challenges, and supportive accountability partnerships over isolated digital workouts. The West Chatham YMCA totally supports this shift to communal well-being. By cultivating these vital connections, the Y aims to transform fitness from a solo struggle into a shared journey, helping members maintain motivation, celebrate milestones together, and build lasting, healthy relationships.

For insights on the best ways to get fit for 2026 Jared Bradshaw, Fitness Lead at the West Chatham YMCA, says the best action is to make a start, no matter how small. As the head personal trainer he oversees the floor staff and designs new fitness programs. He says, “My job is caring for our members, helping our team grow and being open minded.”

Born and raised in Charleston, Jared discovered his passion for fitness at 15 years old during a high‑school weightlifting class. That led him into martial arts and track, before finding his true focus in strength training and overall wellness. Jared holds a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and a master’s degree in Health, Exercise, and Sports Science. He holds certifications from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator (TSAC-F).

Tactical Training In addition to his role at the Y, Jared is a Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coach at Fort Stewart.

“My role is to help promote physical readiness for the soldiers on base to prepare them for their jobs.” he says, “We are basically training soldiers to ‘prepare for battle’ so they can return home.” They also coach soldiers to lead physical training sessions within their companies. A proud graduate of the Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina, Jared says he did not serve in the military but thinks of his coaching role at Fort Stewart as “ giving back to our military and that is very rewarding .It also helps me grow as a leader .”

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T TO GETTING FIT IN 2026 people are happy to help because they remember exactly Gym Community what it felt like to be new.”

Jared says, “There is a lot of technology on Instagram or And if you are getting fit but have health limitations?

Tik Toc, but people are getting bored with it. I am old school, It is absolutely possible—you just have to approach it with I like the gym, and I like being with people at the gym who patience, flexibility, and a focus on what your body can do are actually trying to better themselves.” Joining a gym rather than what it can’t. Progress doesn’t have to look like community can be difficult at first, but the Y offers many intense workouts or heavy weights; it can start with gentle group opportunities that make it easy, such as the Wellness movement, shorter sessions, or modified exercises that Jumpstart where you are assigned a wellness coach, and take respect your limits. The key is consistency and listening to part in health history assessments, goal setting sessions and your body. Every bit of movement counts, and even small an orientation on equipment. improvements in strength, mobility, or endurance can make Traditional group workouts, such as yoga, Pilates, and daily life easier and more enjoyable. dance-cardio mashups, offer a sense of belonging and accountability. The group Know the “Why” energy helps keep participants Most people don’t quit engaged and motivated. because exercise is too Jared’s Recommendations for Jared, “We have fitness hard.

They quit because events designed for all skill Beginner Workout Ideas at the Y they never defined where levels, from work outs to yoga they were going.

Without classes. Try Zumba- that’s a Full Body Resistance Machines clear goals, even the best fun class! You’ll find people (Effort Level/RPE 6-7) workout routine starts to feel who cheer for you simply 1. Machine Leg Press - 2-3 x 10 aimless. It doesn’t matter because you showed up.”

2. Machine Chest Press - 2-3 x10 whether you’re training in Exercising with other 3. Machine Horizontal Row - 2-3 x 10 a gym, a park, or your own people makes it easier to 4.

Lying Hamstring Curls 2-3 x 10 backyard—if you’re moving stay consistent and enjoy without a destination, 5. Machine Shoulder Press - 2-3 x 10 the process. When someone burnout shows up fast. expects you to show up, 6. Machine Lat Pulldowns - 2-3 x10 Know your “Why” you’re far less likely to and make it specific and Full Body Bodyweight Circuit skip, and the shared energy personal.

“Get healthy” is 1. Bodyweight Squats - x10-15 naturally pushes you to work too vague to drive you on a little harder without even 2. Pushups/Incline Pushups - x5-10 the days you don’t feel like thinking about it. Workouts 3. Pull Ups/Inverted Rows on Barbell - x2-5/x5-10 it.

But goals like lifting your feel less like a chore and more 4. Bodyweight Hip Hinge (RDLs) - x10-15 grandkids with confidence like a shared experience, 5. Battle Ropes/ Medicine Ball Slams/ Rower or walking comfortably which keeps motivation high Machine - 1 minute on your next vacation give even on tough days.

6. Core- Plank/ Bird Dogs/ Lying Leg Raises your effort meaning. A clear 30 secs- 1 min/ x10/ x10 “why” keeps you focused Getting Started and committed. Goals give For many newcomers your effort direction. They the gym intimidation factor turn random workouts into is real. Jared says, “When purposeful steps. They make progress visible, which keeps someone says, ‘I feel too old, too out of shape, and too clueless motivation alive. And they anchor your routine so you’re not about gyms to even start’, I tell them that everyone starts relying on willpower alone. somewhere. Every single person in that gym had a first day, Jared, “Showing up is the hardest part. If you walk and almost all of them walked in feeling unsure, intimidated, through the door, you’re already doing more than the person or overwhelmed. Lack of experience is universal on day one.” who stayed home.” He stresses consistency. “Results don’t The key is to shrink the steps. Don’t start with “I’m going show up overnight, and too many people quit because they to get fit.” Start with “I’m going to get in the car.” Then, expect instant change. Give your body time. Give your habits “I made it to the parking lot.” Then, “I walked through time. Keep showing up, even when you feel like nothing is the door.” These wins build momentum. “Once you’re happening. That’s where the real transformation begins.” inside, just try something,” says Jared, “Every machine has And reach out- you don’t have to do this alone! instructions right on it. Make your only goal on day one to learn two machines—nothing more. And if you’re unsure, ask someone for a quick tip. You’d be surprised how many

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2026

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ON TRACK FOR THE

BULLDOGS

Richmond Hill High Hurdler Signs with Georgia and Aims for 2028 Olympics Story by Stephen Prudhomme Photography by Leidy Lester

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2026

K

endrick Joshua has overcome plenty of hurdles during his high school track career. The Richmond Hill High (RHHS) senior won the state title in the 300-meter hurdles last season and is ranked among the top high schoolers in the country and top 20 in the world.

One hurdle he did not face was deciding where to attend college on a track scholarship. Offered an athletic ride by all the schools in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Joshua signed with the only school he ever considered - the University of Georgia.

“I’ve always liked Georgia since I was little,” said Joshua, who grew up in Savannah before moving to Richmond Hill and attending RHHS starting as a freshman. “I was planning to go there. It was the first school to offer me a scholarship. I was overly excited when I got the offer.”

Joshua took the fast track, both literally and figuratively, to earn a scholarship to Georgia. It all started with a talent and inclination for running.

Naturally fast, Joshua was a running back and wide receiver in football. He started playing at the age of 6 and continued through his freshman year at Richmond Hill High. When he broke his wrist as a sophomore, Kendrick, who also was competing in track, decided to focus on the latter sport and in particular the hurdles, an event he had discovered as a freshman.

“I was bored running on flat surfaces,” said Kendrick, who has also competed in the 60-, 100- , 200- and 400-meter races. “I wanted something new.”

Relying on his athletic ability and a talent for progressing faster than others, Joshua quickly made his mark in the hurdles. He placed on the podium in the 300 hurdles his first two years before winning the state title as a junior.

Joshua has a personal best time of 35.9 seconds in the 300-meter hurdles and wants to break the high school record of 34.8 seconds. He said form is the biggest factor in that distance. Remarking his speed is “up there” in the state and nation, Joshua said the 400-meter hurdles, which is the only event college teams feature in that discipline, is more of a stamina event. “My endurance is improving,” he said. Although the hurdles are his best event, Joshua has showcased his his speed in the 60-, 100-, and 200-meter races with respective times of 6.82 seconds, 10.35 seconds and 21.38 seconds.

Joshua’s weekly training sessions include running 250 to 500 meters at 80- to 90% speed, weight workout, and running 10 to 120 meters at full speed. He describes it as a job he hates, allowing him to do something he truly loves.

“I use winning as a motivation for training,” he explained.

“I love to win.”

Outside of running the hurdles, Joshua enjoys golf and photography. He remarked he doesn’t go out much.

Joshua said he misses football a lot and believes he could have played in college, adding he prefers competing as an individual rather than on a team.

Brittany Joshua said her son has always been a gifted athlete, starting at a young age. “He was the kid who picked up anything physical really fast,” she said. “He was always fast and competitive at every sport.”

Brittany attributes Kendrick’s rapid improvement as a hurdler to hard training, willingness to listen, and never backing down from a challenge. Remarked Brittany: “He loves a challenge.”

Those qualities have led to outstanding times and a number of medals. Although proud of these accomplishments, Brittany said she’s most impressed with the way Kendrick pushes to be better even after a goal is met.

One of those goals was to play any sport in college but not just any college. “He has always been a UGA fan,” Brittany said. “Watching him sign, you could see how proud he was of himself and that made me prouder.”

Given the support for the University of Georgia throughout the state, it’s not surprising Joshua received a “whole bunch” of positive feedback at school and in the local community when he announced his decision to

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2026

27

become a Bulldog. If he hadn’t signed with Georgia, Joshua said his second choice would have been Texas Tech, alma mater for professional hurdler Caleb Dean and a fellow competitor in a race.

“We spoke before the race and it went well,” Joshua said.

“He runs pretty smoothly and is a cool guy to watch.”

Levi Sybert, director of track and field and cross country at Richmond Hill High, has coached Joshua since his freshman year. He said Heather Sybert has served as Joshua’s spring coach, and a number of hurdles coaches have worked with him during that time. According to Levi, Joshua, befitting his performance on the track, has made huge strides as a hurdler.

“Kendrick started out as just a brute force talent over the hurdles,” said Levi, who has coached at Richmond Hill High since 2007. “He was able to shift his mind and become a master of the art of hurdling while having brute force strength. That’s what has made him so incredibly successfultalent and intention.”

Athletes from all sports have to make the adjustment from high school to college. It’s an even greater challenge when going to a school such as Georgia, which competes in the demanding Southeast Conference and typically recruits the top athletes. The stories are many of athletes who dominated in high school but were unable to repeat that success in 28

www.PoolerMagazine.com | January/February 2026

college. Levi remains confident Joshua will make the transition a smooth one.

“Kendrick should do great at Georgia,” Levi said. “He is very self motivated and as long as he stays on path to what his true intentions are, he will be extremely successful to his desires.”

Then there’s the even more ambitious goal of qualifying for the Olympics, being named one of three individuals in his event out of a pool of the best college athletes in the country. Once again, Levi said he believes Joshua is up to the challenge.

“I believe he has enough meat left on the bone for that to be an obtainable goal for Kendrick,” Levi said. “That is because he has not truly challenged himself in practice as he challenges himself in competition. If you can put that last critical element together with an elite training group at Georgia, it’s going to be an amazing ride for him.”

If this year is any indication, Joshua’s ride can already be categorized as thrilling. Competing as a member of the Coastal Georgia Track Team, he won the men’s 400-meter hurdles at the USA Track & Field U-20 Championships at the historic Hayward Field, University of Oregon with a time of 50.53.

That performance capped off a junior year in which Joshua captured the 6A state title in the 300-meter hurdles with a time of 36.33 seconds and followed that up by winning the

Meet of Champions in Atlanta. His time of 35.94 was the second fastest in the nation in 2025.

Isaiah and Belinda Taylor have coached Joshua on the Coastal Georgia Track Team since he was 9 years old. “He is a very efficient hurdler,” Isaiah said. “What makes him special is his speed between the hurdles, and his athleticism allows him the ability to snap his trail leg down faster than his competitors.”

Like Sybert, Isaiah expects big things from Joshua in college and beyond. “I believe he will win the SEC 400-meter hurdles conference championship and qualify for the NCAA final,” he said. “I really believe he will make the Olympic team in 2028.”

Joshua has a personal best time of 50.5 seconds in the 400-meter hurdles. To qualify for the Olympics, he has to have a time of 48 to 49 seconds. That gives him several years to cut two to three seconds off his fastest time by “training at a higher level.”

As with earning a scholarship to Georgia, Joshua has had a longtime dream of representing his country in the Olympics.

“I’ve wanted to compete in the Olympics since I started running,” Joshua said. “It would mean everything. It would be a big accomplishment if I make the team.”

Kendrick started out as just a brute force talent over the hurdles ... He was able to shift his mind and become a master of the art of hurdling while having brute force strength. That’s what has made him so incredibly successful—talent and intention.

Carol Dotson, Joshua’s aunt, said her nephew is only a few seconds away from the winning hurdles time at the Olympics and he’s just starting out. She noted he’s always been determined and wants to be No. 1 in everything he does.

Dotson described Joshua as a very good hearted, focused individual, adding the family’s glad he’ll be attending Georgia.

“It’s only four hours away,” Dotson said. “The family can go there and he can visit us. Go Dawgs!” ■

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The Foundation of

HEALTHY LIVING Why Now is the Time to Double Down on Leafy Greens

As concerns about childhood obesity and chronic disease reach crisis levels, public health experts are urging Americans to eat more fresh produce.

For the first time in history, more children worldwide are obese than underweight – a reversal driven largely by diets dominated by ultra-processed foods and a shortage of fresh fruits and vegetables, according to UNICEF. It’s not just an issue impacting children. In the United States, adult obesity rates have hovered at approximately 40% from 2021-2023, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Fresh produce in the United States has never been safer with extensive federal requirements for leafy greens. Farmers and produce companies have also taken food safety concerns seriously, investing heavily in prevention, testing and traceability systems. Many farmers and food companies voluntarily comply with industry-wide standards. For example, in California, the Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement (LGMA) sets measurable and verifiable standards for the produce industry, further enhancing food safety.

The numbers tell a compelling story about both safety and benefits. Americans consume 130 million servings of leafy greens every day, according to the Western Growers Association. Meanwhile, the evidence linking leafy green consumption to better health outcomes continues to mount.

Research published in the journal “Neurology” found eating approximately one serving per day of leafy greens was associated with slower cognitive decline – equivalent to being 11 years younger in age. A study by the “Institute for Functional Medicine” discovered diets rich in leafy greens sparked DNA changes that reversed biological aging by up to 3.23 years. The cardiovascular benefits extend beyond mortality reduction. A study published in the “European Journal of Nutrition” found consuming 1.5 cups of leafy greens daily could help prevent heart disease in older adults. As has long been documented in medical literature, consuming more fruits and vegetables is associated with lower mortality rates.

“This isn’t just about adding years to your life; it’s about maintaining quality of life and independence as we age. It’s also important to remember that,” said Dr. David Acheson, a medically trained food safety expert who previously served in leadership at both the FDA and USDA. Access to fresh produce has also never been more convenient or varied.

From bagged salads and pre-cut vegetables to ready-toeat fresh cut fruit bowls or vegetable trays, there are countless ways to incorporate healthy foods into diets. These options reduce barriers to healthy eating by eliminating prep time and providing portion-controlled servings that help minimize food waste while making nutritious choices more accessible. This means the real challenge is translating this abundance of fresh produce into better dietary habits and improved public health.

In a nation grappling with obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cognitive decline, doubling down on fresh produce isn’t just good advice. It’s a public health imperative.

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UNFILTERED

Finding Magic in the Madness of Motherhood

Grace, Giggles, & a Little Chemical Help

by Alycia Calderin

They say laughter is the best medicine.

And sure, laughter helps, but I also take the real kind. Prescribed, tiny, life saving medicine. Because as it turns out, motherhood is a lot to handle with just caffeine and coping mechanisms.

Let’s be honest: motherhood is beautiful, but it’s also exhausting in a way no one really warns you about. Not the kind of tired that sleep fixes, the kind that sits in your bones. You can love your life, your kids, your husband, your dog, and still wake up some mornings feeling like you’re running on an emotional Windows 95 system that keeps freezing.

The Pressure to Be Fine There’s this unspoken rule that moms have to hold it all together. We’re expected to be grateful, patient, creative, nurturing, productive, fit, emotionally stable, and available for class cupcakes, all at once.

When I had my first child, I thought I just needed to push through the hard parts. I thought maybe I wasn’t praying enough, or drinking enough water, or doing enough yoga.

(Spoiler: I was doing none of those things. I was, however, crying in the shower and Googling “can you die from exhaustion.”)

It took me years to realize what was actually happening wasn’t weakness, it was my brain waving a little white flag. So, I got help. Real, honest help. And one day, I swallowed that first little pill that promised balance.

And you know what? It didn’t make me less “me.”

It made me the version of me I had been trying so hard to claw my way back to.

The Myth of the Perfect Mom Brain We’re told to “take care of ourselves,” but no one talks about how complicated that can be. There’s a strange shame that comes with admitting you might need more than a walk or a podcast. But the truth is, you can’t self care your way out of a chemical imbalance.

I used to think antidepressants were for “other people.”

The ones who couldn’t handle life. Now I know they’re for people exactly like me, who handle so much life that sometimes we just need a little extra serotonin to keep up.

I still have days where I’m juggling so much that I forget where I set my coffee (and my sanity). But I also have days where I laugh so hard I cry, cook dinner while dancing in the kitchen, and feel like I’m living in color again. And that’s worth every doctor visit, every adjustment, every ounce of vulnerability it took to ask for help.

The Grace in Getting Help I used to think being strong meant doing it all myself.

Now I know real strength looks like sitting in a doctor’s office and saying, “I’m not okay.” It looks like finally accepting that taking medication isn’t giving up, it’s choosing to show up.

It’s funny, though..when I started being honest about it, so many other moms quietly admitted, “Me too.” It’s like we’ve all been taking turns pretending we’re fine while silently Googling side effects.

Maybe the strongest thing we can do for each other is stop pretending.

A Little Humor and a Lot of Hope I still lose my cool, still run late, still forget spirit day and the permission slip and occasionally my own password to life.

The meds didn’t turn me into a zen goddess, they just helped turn down the static.

Now, instead of running on chaos and caffeine alone, I run on chaos, caffeine, and a carefully calibrated dose of Celexa.

And honestly? It’s working for me.

So if you’re reading this and you’ve ever felt like you’re failing because you need help, please know you’re not alone.

Whether your self care looks like journaling, therapy, or a tiny pink pill, it’s still self care. You’re still the mom who shows up, even if you needed a little help getting there.

Because at the end of the day, motherhood isn’t about being perfect.

It’s about being present.

And sometimes, presence requires prescription strength.

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Nominate Pooler Magazine's

WOMEN OF INFLUENCE POOLER MAGAZINE IS SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR OUR UPCOMING “WOMEN OF INFLUENCE” ISSUE We want to recognize and celebrate women who are making a meaningful difference in the lives of others—through leadership, service, mentorship, and dedication.

Do you know a woman whose actions and example have positively impacted those around her? Nominate her today.

WHO SHOULD BE NOMINATED? • Women making a difference in any field • Business owners and executives • Community leaders and volunteers • Educators, healthcare professionals, & public servants

HOW TO NOMINATE: • Nomination details will be available on our website and social media pages.

• Include the nominee’s name, contact information, and a brief description of her impact • Deadline for nominations: February 1

Selected honorees will be featured in our upcoming issue, sharing their stories and the difference they are making across our region.

Help us spotlight the women whose impact inspires others and strengthens our community.

TO BECOME A SPONSOR of the Women of Influence issue, contact Christie Wilson at Christie@JDelSURMarketing.com or call 912.295.5406.

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Scan. Explore. Belong.

Want to know more about our area? Our Local Living Guide connects you with the heart of our community. Scan for instant access to: Schools • Healthcare • Dining • Services • Events

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January 2026 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

POOLER EVENTS Friday

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Saturday

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1/8: Morning Grind Networking Miro Luxury Apartments 500 Fox Farm St, Pooler

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1/10: Rock ‘26 with Kiss 200 Tanger Outlets Blvd, Pooler

1/21: Level Up Luncheon Savannah Coca Cola 102 Coleman Blvd, Savannah

1/26: Mobile Mammography Chatham County Juvenile Court 197 Carl Griffin Drive, Savannah

1/27: Business After 5

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Monument at Pooler 2200 Pooler Parkway, Pooler

1/29: Speed Networking Georgia Tech Savannah 210 Technology Circle, Savannah

1/31: H+STEM Day | Space & the Eighth

February 2026 Sunday

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175 Bourne Ave, Pooler

Friday

Saturday

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2/5: Morning Grind Networking Hotworx Pooler 1 N Godley Station Blvd. Suite C110, Pooler

2/13: Mobile Mammography Savannah Civic Center 301 W. Oglethorpe Avenue, Savannah

2/18: Level Up Luncheon 15

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Savannah Coca Cola 102 Coleman Blvd, Savannah

2/24: Business After 5 22

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Pooler, GA

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 Angel Learning Center | Chatham Parkway Subaru J. DelSUR Marketing | Lowcountry Foundation Repair Action Overhead Door & Supply................................... 35 AHAS Doctors of Audiology........................................... 35 Angel Learning Center...................................................... 3 Bed World............................................................................ 6 Benton Grove....................................................................34 Borders Truck and Trailer Mobile Repair LLC.............36 Budget Blinds....................................................................34 Chatham Parkway Subaru..............................................44 Georgia Heritage Credit Union.....................................38 Godley Station Dental....................................................... 7 Horne Law........................................................................... 6 Hospice Savannah............................................................24 Internal Medicine of Savannah........................................ 8 J. Patrick’s Furniture.........................................................20 J.DelSUR Marketing Group............................................ 25 Jessica & Co. Beauty Lounge........................................24 Junk King............................................................................. 8 K & B Trailers & Quick Carts........................................... 16 Kelly Services....................................................................... 8

Local Living Guide............................................................40 Lowcountry Foundation Repair.................................... 25 Magnolia Manor................................................................ 16 Michael’s Roofing, Inc.....................................................30 Miller Dental Group......................................................... 21 Modernize to Stay............................................................38 Pine House........................................................................36 Rincon Chevrolet.............................................................24 Savannah Dance Co........................................................36 Savannah Scottish Games..............................................40 Southcoast Health Pooler..............................................43 St. Joseph’s / Candler........................................................ 2 Suncare Hospice & Palliative Care................................30 Superior Fence & Rail......................................................34 The Liliana Apartment Homes....................................... 14 The Salt Table.................................................................... 14 Thomas C Strickland Funeral Home............................24 Travertine and More, Inc.................................................38 West Chatham YMCA...................................................... 25

Thank you to our Community Sponsors:

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