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.
Letter from the Publisher
As we step into the season of joy, tradition, and togetherness, I’m thrilled to welcome you to our December issue—a festive celebration of the holidays, giving, and the little things that make this time of year so special.
One of the highlights of our holiday tradition is our annual Giving Campaign, where we invite you to nominate someone in our community who could use a Christmas blessing. It’s our way of giving back, honoring the season’s true spirit, and sharing a bit of joy with those who need it most.
In this issue, we also bring you our Countdown to Christmas, a list of 25 ways to make the most of this magical month. From cozy nights watching Christmas classics to outdoor lights and family activities, there’s something for everyone.
For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss Cozy Confections, where we share tips for creating the perfect hot chocolate charcuterie board—a delightful way to bring warmth and cheer!
In our local spotlight, we feature C. M. Site Prep and the ways they’ve supported our community, from land clearing to helping us recover from recent storms.
This issue is packed with stories and inspiration to make this season memorable. We hope it brings warmth to your heart and joy to your holidays. From all of us to you, Merry Christmas!
MORRIS, PUBLISHER
December 2024
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, Erica Bibb, Mindy Wester
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brooke Blane Photography, Janie Jones, Mindy Wester
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Jamey Johnson’s “What a View Tour” at Evans Towne Center Park.
business monthly
Win Tickets to Christmas with John Berry
Win big this Christmas! Enter our giveaway for a chance to win two tickets to the Christmas with John Berry concert on December 4th and a $150 gift certificate to Cadwalladers! To participate, visit Evans City Lifestyle Magazine on Facebook and enter through our page. Celebrate the season with festive music, delicious dining, and a memorable night out!
Congratulations to the Newlyweds
Congratulations to the new Dr. and Mrs. Austin! Skyler Austin, owner of Teaspoon in Evans, and Dr. Troy Austin, owner of 7 Seas Medical Spa and Southeastern Aesthetic Surgery Center, tied the knot on September 28, 2024, in a beautiful ceremony at Eden at Gracefield, planned by Caitlin and Co. Events. We wish Skyler and Troy a lifetime of happiness as they begin their journey together as husband and wife.
Arayes Are Here to Stay at Laziza Mediterranean Grill
Exciting news for Laziza Mediterranean Grill fans! Their popular Arayes is now a permanent menu item. Enjoy seasoned beef stuffed in a freshly baked pita, seared to perfection, and served with pickles, tomatoes, onions, and tahini sauce. Visit them at either location—Evans at 4272 Washington Rd or Augusta at 901 Broad St—to savor this delicious dish!
Photography by Brooke Blane Photography
LIST
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Senior Living Community
Brandon Wilde brandonwilde.com | 706.868.9800
Marshall Pines Memory Care and Transitional Assisted Living marshallpines.com | 706.869.9500
Sodalis Martinez sodalissenior.com/martinez | 706.855.6565
Wesley Woods of Augusta wesleywoods.org | 706.722.2096
Barclay House of Augusta Senior Living augusta.barclayhouseseniorliving.com | 706.869.0999
In-Home Care Provider
Visiting Angels visitingangels.com/augusta/home | 706.955.4220
Savannah River ProHome Care srphomecare.com | 706.836.9160
Home Instead Senior Care homeinstead.com/788 | 706.922.3691
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Comfort Keepers Home Care 706.723.1744
Qualicare Home Care Augusta qualicare.com | 762.930.8008
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
Countdown to Christmas
CELEBRATE THE CHRISTMAS SEASON WITH THIS CHECKLIST
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
1. If you haven’t already, put up your Christmas tree and decorations!
2. Make a DIY Advent calendar.
3. Bake Christmas treats to give to neighbors and friends.
4. Drive around looking for Christmas lights.
5. Donate to a toy drive.
6. Send Christmas cards to family and friends.
7. Decorate a Christmas wreath.
8 Make a gingerbread house.
9. Write letters to Santa.
10. Shop local holiday markets.
11. Have an ugly sweater contest.
12 . Attend a Christmas show.
13. Craft homemade gifts.
14. Make homemade Christmas ornaments.
15. Volunteer at a local charity.
16 . Watch Christmas movies.
17. Make eggnog.
18. Watch a Christmas parade.
19. Go Christmas caroling.
20. Make peppermint bark.
21. Host a Christmas trivia night.
22 . Wrap Christmas presents.
23. Read a classic Christmas story.
24. Bake cookies for Santa and leave carrots for the reindeer.
25. Celebrate Christmas day!
CONFECTION
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. While a simple cup of hot cocoa can warm the soul, why not take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board? Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy. Let’s explore the wonders of old-fashioned hot cocoa and all the accompaniments
you can use to create your very own hot cocoa charcuterie board.
THE DELIGHTS OF OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Old-fashioned hot cocoa transports us to simpler times and brings with it a sense of nostalgia. The slow, traditional process of making hot chocolate from scratch –with real chocolate, milk and a touch of sweetness – provides a distinctly memorable experience for the holidays.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA
CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure, and serve as a sweet centerpiece to your holiday gatherings.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
VARIATIONS TO SAVOR
Indulge in some exciting recipes that are sure to elevate your hot chocolate into fun and festive beverages during the holidays and throughout the colder months.
MINTY FRESH WONDER
Embrace the festive season with a mint-infused hot cocoa. Fancify your beverage with a peppermint stick or make your
own crushed candy cane dust for a touch of holiday cheer. This minty delight is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect indulgence for cozy winter evenings.
SPICY AZTEC ELIXIR
Channel your inner adventurer with an Aztec-inspired hot cocoa. Infuse your drink with a touch of chili powder and a dash of cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive presentation. This fiery blend will ignite your senses and warm you from the inside out.
GROWN-UP GRASSHOPPER
Transform your drink into a rich adult-only grasshopper hot cocoa by adding 2 oz. of crème de menthe or a shot of peppermint schnapps. Adorn with a crushed candy cane rim for a playful offering.
DECADENT SALTED CARAMEL INDULGENCE
Elevate your hot cocoa experience with a drizzle of homemade salted caramel. The combination of slightly bitter cocoa and sweet, buttery caramel is a match made in heaven. Sprinkle an extra pinch of sea salt for that irresistible contrast.
CLEARING THE WAY
C. M. Site Prep's dedication to community and quality service
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
C. M. Site Prep, a local land clearing, grading, and site development business, has earned a reputation as a trusted company in the CSRA. Owner Clay Morris, a lifelong resident of Appling, Georgia, brings a personal touch to projects that range from small residential sites to large-scale commercial developments.
Clay grew up surrounded by the natural beauty of the country and has always had a passion for the outdoors. From a young age, he enjoyed hands-on work, finding satisfaction in projects that called for both skill and precision. “I’ve always been someone who loves working outside and being able to see a project come together from start to finish is incredibly rewarding,” he shares. Alongside his team of skilled professionals, Clay has cultivated a business dedicated to excellence, whether the job requires land clearing, driveway installation, or storm clean-up.
Since founding C. M. Site Prep, Clay has made it his mission to deliver quality and dependable service for every project, regardless of size. “Just about any job you can think of, we can do,” he says with pride. From clearing plots of land to installing underground utilities, C. M. Site Prep covers the spectrum of land development needs. The team is fully licensed and insured, and each crew member is trained and committed to completing projects safely and efficiently. “Our team is experienced, and we are dedicated to providing high-quality work while ensuring the project is completed to your satisfaction,” he explains.
With December’s colder weather and the lingering effects of this past hurricane
season, C. M. Site Prep is prepared for the challenges that winter may bring. When Hurricane Helene swept through the CSRA, it downed many trees and caused extensive property damage. Clay and his team worked long hours to help as many people as possible, handling an overwhelming list of requests. “When a storm like that hits, it’s not just about doing a job; it’s about helping our community get back on its feet,” he says.
While C. M. Site Prep’s range of services is extensive, from grading and mulching to demolition and utility installation, it’s their attention to detail and customer-first approach that sets them apart. For Clay and his team, this work goes beyond just getting the job done. “We work hard so our clients can enjoy the outcome,” he shares. “There’s nothing better than helping someone bring their vision to life.”
As C. M. Site Prep continues to expand its reach and reputation in the CSRA, Clay’s love for his hometown and his dedication to high-quality service remain at the company’s core. Whether clearing a new site for development or grading a long gravel driveway, Clay and his team are proud to bring their best to each project, maintaining the values of integrity and reliability.
For more information about C. M. Site Prep or to request a consultation, call 706.466.1478 or visit CMSitePrep.com. No matter the season or the project’s complexity, Clay and his team are ready to help, bringing both expertise and a commitment to excellence to every job they undertake.
CRAFTING CHEER:
DIY WINTER CRAFTS
ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ORNAMENT CLUSTERS
SUPPLIES
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
STEP 1
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
STEP 2
Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 3
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
STEP 4
Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 5
Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!
Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!
events
DECEMBER 3RD
Christmas in Columbia County
Evans Towne Center Park
Mark your calendars for December 3rd for a full day of fun at the Evans Towne Center Park! The Holiday Market begins at 1pm, the Christmas parade begins at 3pm, there will be pictures with Santa from 1:30pm to 5pm, live music from 3pm to 6pm, and the Tree Lighting Ceremony followed by fireworks at approximately 6:15pm.
DECEMBER 4TH
A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland
Miller Theater
A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland has entertained thousands around the globe and now returns to the U.S. this holiday season. Don’t miss your chance to see this magical show! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit MillerTheaterAugusta.com.
DECEMBER 5TH - 8TH
Hayride Through the Life of Christ
Columbia County Fairgrounds
Sharon Baptist Church presents the Hayride Through the Life of Christ. This free event offers a unique presentation that will carry you through a special performance centered around the "Reason for the Season." Enjoy hot chocolate, music, and a kids corner. This hayride is held on December 5th through the 8th from 7pm to 9pm.
DECEMBER 6TH
Augusta Ballet presents The Nutcracker
Columbia County Performing Arts Center
Witness the magic of the season with the Augusta Ballet as they present The Nutcracker. This performance will take place at the Columbia County Performing Arts Center on December 6th. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit TheCenterOfCC.com.
DECEMBER 14TH
Auggie's 11th Annual Holiday BUZZar!
SRP Park
Auggie’s 11th Annual Holiday BUZZar will be held at the SRP Park on December the 14th from 10am to 1pm. Santa will be at the Hive Pro Shop for photos and concessions will be available for purchase. Don’t forget to bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots Drive! This event is free and dogs are welcome.
DECEMBER 25TH
Christmas Day
Merry Christmas from the Evans City Lifestyle team! We hope you have a wonderful time celebrating with family and friends!
