Letter from the Editor
This month, we’re celebrating the heart of our community—those who pour their time, talents, and love into making a difference. Whether through a lifelong passion, a generous act, or a delicious recipe shared with others, investing in people is what truly brings us together.
Lisa Story is a perfect example of this. Her dedication to the medical field, specifically geriatrics, has touched countless lives at Brandon Wilde. Her passion for serving seniors is more than just a career—it’s a calling, and we’re excited to share her story with you.
We’re also highlighting a special event that’s all about investing in family. A local couple is opening their hearts and home to adopt a sweet little girl, and the community is coming together with a BBQ fundraiser to help make it happen. We’d love for you to be part of this beautiful journey—so grab a plate and show your support!
And what better way to bring people together than with great food? Chef Bill Coxwell, owner of Sweet Azalea Gourmet Shop & Catering, is sharing his recipe for Lemon-Coconut Bars, a perfect treat for spring. His love for cooking is an investment in joy, flavor, and bringing people around the table.
We hope this issue reminds you that the most meaningful investments aren’t always financial—they’re in the people we uplift, the kindness we share, and the connections we build.
Wishing you a wonderful April!
BAILEY HALL, EDITOR @CITYLIFESTYLEAUGUSTA
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Jana Morris | jana.morris@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Bailey Hall | bailey.hall@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Michelle Parnell | michelle.parnell@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Daniel Morris
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bailey Hall, Susan Lanier-Graham, Shannon Roby
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Shannon Roby
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
Premier General Contractors Since 1986
Beyond providing quality workmanship and comprehensive design/build services, we strive to build a relationship of mutual trust and confidence with each of our clients’ large and small. We accomplish this by putting your priorities first and conducting ourselves with integrity in every aspect of our business.
business monthly
Southern Willow Market Shifts to Online-Only
After five amazing years in Augusta, Southern Willow Market is moving to an online-only model to focus on their national presence, expanding their lifestyle brand and growing online sales. This change will allow them to offer more clothing and jewelry, while continuing to serve local floral and wedding clients. Preorders for Easter and Mother’s Day flowers will be available soon. Shop their products and enjoy nationwide shipping at SouthernWillowMarket.com!
Bloom & Explore: Sacred Heart Garden Festival
Experience the beauty of spring at the 2025 Sacred Heart Garden Festival, happening April 25-26 from 10 AM to 5 PM at Sacred Heart Cultural Center. This beloved annual event showcases breathtaking garden displays, expert talks, and unique vendors, offering inspiration for gardeners of all levels. Stroll through stunning landscapes, shop for plants and decor, and enjoy the charm of one of Augusta’s most treasured traditions. Don’t miss this celebration of nature and creativity!
Celebrate Easter at Stevens Creek Church
Stevens Creek Church invites you to celebrate Easter weekend with uplifting music, inspiring stories, and a powerful message of hope. With services across all four campuses, including special activities for Creek Kids, there’s a place for everyone to experience the joy of Easter. Communion will be offered at Friday and Saturday services. Arrive early and be part of this special time of worship! For more details, visit stevenscreekchurch.com or call 706-863-7002.
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
A Heart for Healing and Helping
Bringing Comfort and Care to Seniors
For Lisa Story, caring for others isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. With 25 years of experience in nursing, she has dedicated her life to the medical field, specifically geriatrics, where she has found her greatest joy in serving seniors and their families. As the Director of Health Services and Sales & Outreach at Brandon Wilde, she plays a vital role in ensuring that residents receive the care and attention they deserve, all while bringing warmth and compassion to everyone she meets.
Lisa’s passion for geriatrics was ignited at the very beginning of her nursing career. “I strive to brighten everyone’s day that I come in contact with,” she says. “There is not much that brings me greater joy than serving others and helping those in need.” This dedication has remained a constant in her life, even as she navigated personal and professional challenges.
Like so many in the medical field, Lisa faced an incredibly difficult time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Juggling the stress of work with homeschooling two young children, she found herself at a crossroads. Unsure of what the future held, she prayed for direction. An unexpected job opportunity outside of the medical field provided a much-needed change of pace, and while she learned a great deal, something was missing—her passion for nursing.
That passion came calling in December 2021 when she received an offer from Brandon Wilde that combined both her clinical background and experience in marketing and sales. It was the perfect fit. “I get to help our seniors and families all day, every day,” Lisa shares. “It’s truly a dream job.”
Brandon Wilde is a Continuing Care Retirement Community, offering every level of senior care, from Independent Living, Assisted Living,
Photography by Shannon Roby
“I strive to brighten everyone’s day that I come in contact with. There is not much that brings me greater joy than serving others and helping those in need.”
and Memory and Skilled Care. As a nationally recognized community, it has been awarded the J.D. Power #1 Customer Satisfaction rating for six consecutive years. With a mission to provide exceptional senior living experiences, Brandon Wilde fosters an environment where residents can remain as active and engaged as they choose while having access to top-tier medical care when needed.
Lisa’s role is essential in guiding families through the transition process, ensuring that each resident finds the right level of care and feels at home. Whether assisting with assisted living, memory care, or short-term rehabilitation, she makes the journey smoother for both residents and their loved ones.
This year, Brandon Wilde celebrates 35 years of service. Nestled on a 73-acre wooded campus in Evans, GA, it has
become home to more than 400 residents and a dedicated staff of 200. Managed by Life Care Services®, a leader in senior living with over 50 years of experience, the community continues to set the standard for exceptional care.
Through all of this, Lisa remains at the heart of it all—helping families navigate the complexities of senior living with kindness and expertise. For those considering a transition into senior care, Lisa Story is more than just a guide—she’s a source of comfort and reassurance. Her passion, dedication, and unwavering heart for service make her a true local hero, one who has touched countless lives through her work.
For more information about Brandon Wilde or to schedule a visit, Lisa is always happy to help. You can reach her at 706868-3533 to experience firsthand the warmth and care that she brings to the community every day.
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
On April 26th, Hope for Hooves will host a BBQ plate fundraiser to help cover the legal costs of the adoption, ensuring this child can stay in a safe, loving home.
A Home for Good
BBQ Fundraiser for Adoption
Some families are built by blood, and others are built by love. For one local family, love has been the foundation of their bond with a little girl who had experienced a difficult past and needed a place to call home. Now, they are fighting to make that bond unbreakable through adoption—and they need the community’s help to do it.
On April 26th, Hope for Hooves will host a BBQ plate fundraiser to help cover the legal costs of the adoption, ensuring this child can stay in a safe, loving home. Adoption is a long and expensive process, and could cost the family up to $30,000, but every dollar raised will go directly to the legal team making this dream a reality. Any extra funds will be donated to Hope for Hooves, a place that has already played a huge role in this child’s healing journey.
Hope for Hooves is more than just a farm—it’s a sanctuary where rescued horses help people find comfort, confidence, and peace. The fundraiser will be a special event, bringing the
community together for a meaningful cause in a place dedicated to healing and hope.
Everyone is welcome, whether you want to enjoy some BBQ, visit the farm animals, join in on crafts, or simply show your support. If you’re unable to attend, donations are also appreciated. However you choose to help, you’ll be part of something bigger—giving a child the security of knowing she is home, for good.
Date: April 26, 2025
Time: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: Hope for Hooves, 45 Van Rd, North Augusta, SC 29860
How to Help: Pre-purchase BBQ plate tickets by emailing your name and how many plates you would like to HomeForGoodFundraiser@ gmail.com. To make a donation, visit Give.ConnectedHeartsMinistry.org/ campaign/morris-family-adoption-fund/ c672910. Join us for a fun-filled day of food, animals, and support!
The Chef's Table with Bill Coxwell
LEMON-COCONUT BARS
Makes 32
ingredients:
For The Crust:
• 2 cups plain all-purpose flour
• 1 cup powdered sugar, divided
• 1 cup butter, softened
For The Filling:
• 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon rind
• 1 tablespoon plain all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornmeal
• dash of salt
directions:
Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350°.
Step 2. Lightly grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish; set aside.
Step 3. In a medium bowl combine flour, ½ cup powdered sugar, and butter.
Step 4. Mix with fingers or pastry blender until crumbly.
Step 5. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Step 6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 7. In a large bowl combine sugar, eggs, melted butter, milk, rind, 1 tablespoon flour, cornmeal, and salt.
Step 8. Whisk well and add coconut.
Step 9. Pour over the hot crust.
Spring is in the air, and what better way to welcome the season than with a bright and zesty treat? Chef Bill’s Lemon-Coconut Bars are the perfect balance of tangy lemon and sweet coconut, nestled atop a buttery shortbread crust. These delightful bars bring a taste of sunshine to any occasion, whether you're hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a little something sweet. With a hint of nostalgia and a whole lot of flavor, this recipe is sure to be a new favorite!
Step 10. Bake for 35 minutes or until set. Center should not jiggle when gently shaken.
Step 11. Cool on a wire rack.
Step 12. When completely cooled, sprinkle with remaining ½ cup powdered sugar and cut into squares.
Zesty Lemon Meets Sweet Coconut Bliss
6BEST INVESTMENT BOOKS TO READ
THESE INVESTMENT BOOKS CAN HELP YOU STAY UP-TO-DATE ON THE LATEST FINANCIAL TRENDS
ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM
Investing in your future is critical yet complicated. While reaching out to qualified professionals is vital— whether you’re building your business, investing in your financial security, or planning for retirement— doing some of your own research is often helpful. We checked out some of the top investment books that help you better understand how to invest in your future and build wealth.
ONE UP ON WALL STREET
One Up On Wall Street: How to Use What You Already Know to Make Money in the Market by Peter Lynch with John Rothchild. Peter Lynch explains average investors’ advantages over professionals and how they can use these advantages to achieve financial success.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Navigating the Brave New World of Personal Investment, part of Economist Books, by Peter Stanyer, Masood Javaid, and Stephe Satchell. A dynamic new guide to personal investment for the era of cryptocurrencies and personal trading platforms.
Power Your Profits: How to Take Your Business from $10,000 to $10,000,000 by Susie Carder. While not a traditional book on investments, Power Your Profits helps you discover how to take your business from startup mode to the multi-million-dollar mark.
The Wealth Decision: 10 Simple Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom and Build Generational Wealth by Dominique Broadway. A roadmap for becoming a millionaire and building the foundation of generational wealth from a self-made, first-generation multimillionaire.
THE WEALTH DECISION THE WOLF OF INVESTING
The Wolf of Investing: My Insider’s Playbook for Making a Fortune on Wall Street by Jordan Belfort. From the investment guru and author of The Wolf of Wall Street, this is a witty and clear-eyed guide for anyone who wants to play the stock market to their advantage and learn the secrets of a top Wall Street investor.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Masters on the Craft by David M. Rubenstein. This book is a master class on investing, featuring conversations with the biggest names in finance. Brought to you by the legendary cofounder of The Carlyle Group, David M. Rubenstein.
ARTICLE
BY
BAILEY HALL
Swing Into Spring
GOLF FITNESS TIPS FOR A BETTER GAME
As golf season kicks into high gear, now is the perfect time to focus on golf-specific fitness to improve your game and prevent injuries. A strong, flexible body leads to a more powerful swing, better control, and increased endurance on the course. Whether you are a weekend golfer or a dedicated player, taking time to build strength, increase mobility, and improve flexibility will help you perform at your best.
Core strength plays a key role in generating power and stability throughout your swing. Hip mobility allows for a smoother, more efficient turn, reducing strain on the lower back. Shoulder and upper body flexibility contribute to a full range of motion, helping to prevent stiffness and improve overall swing mechanics.
By incorporating simple stretches and exercises, you will step onto the course feeling stronger, more flexible, and ready to play your best round yet.
A strong, flexible body leads to a more powerful swing, better control, and increased endurance on the course.
Core Strength for a More Powerful Swing
A strong core helps with balance, posture, and generating power in a golf swing.
Planks – Hold for 30-60 seconds.
Russian Twists – Sit with knees bent, twist side to side with or without a weight (10-15 reps per side).
Bird Dogs – On hands and knees, extend opposite arm and leg, hold for a few seconds, then switch (10 reps per side).
Hip Mobility for a Smoother Turn
Golf requires a lot of rotation in the hips, so keeping them flexible is key.
Hip Rotations – Stand on one leg and rotate the opposite leg in circles (10 reps each direction).
Lunges with Rotation – Step into a lunge and twist your torso toward the front leg (10 reps per side).
Seated Butterfly Stretch – Sit with the soles of your feet together and gently press knees toward the ground.
Shoulder and Upper Body Flexibility for a Full Range of Motion
Golf swings require flexible shoulders and arms for fluid movement.
Shoulder Crossbody Stretch – Pull one arm across your body and hold for 20 seconds per side.
Chest Opener Stretch – Clasp hands behind your back and gently lift them for a deep chest stretch.
Arm Circles – Do small and large circles to warm up the shoulders (10 forward, 10 backward).
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
APRIL 4TH
Food Truck Friday
Evans Towne Center Park
Indulge in delicious food from a diverse range of food trucks, groove to live entertainment, and have a blast with your loved ones at Food Truck Friday on April 4th from 6pm to 9pm at Evans Towne Center Park.
APRIL 8TH
Rock Fore! Dough 2025
Evans Towne Center Park
Get ready for the 21st Annual Drive for Show, Rock Fore! Dough. This unforgettable tradition will take place at the Lady A Pavilion on April 8th benefiting First Tee - Augusta. For more information, visit RockForeDough.com.
APRIL 19TH
Riverwood Spring Market
5115 Riverwood Pkwy
Enjoy a morning of fun at the Riverwood Spring Market from 9am to 1pm! There will be many local vendors and food trucks available. Please park at Greenbrier Middle School and walk across the street.
APRIL 20TH
Easter Day
The Augusta City Lifestyle team would like to wish you and your family a Happy Easter!
APRIL 25TH
The Black Jacket Symphony Presents Jimmy Buffet
Columbia County Performing Arts Center
Enjoy a live concert experience unlike any other as The Black Jacket Symphony recreates Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudesnote for note - plus a full set of Jimmy Buffett's greatest hits. It's a fun night of rock and roll magic plus a visual experience unlike any other. Visit TheCenterOfCC.com for more information.
APRIL 26TH
Earth Day at Bubbles or Not
Bubbles or Not
Bubbles or Not Dive Shop is hosting their annual Earth Day celebration on April 26th from 4pm to 7pm. Be a part of this amazing event to help take care of our beautiful planet. Bubbles or Not is located at 211 N Louisville St in Harlem.
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