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
Celebrating men who lead well and inspire others
June signals the beginning of summer and inspires dreams of amazing adventures and endless possibilities! Leading the way for many of those adventures are the men in our lives and we want to set aside time to say thank you for making a difference in our lives. Whether it’s driving the family on vacation, lighting up the grill, or tackling the seemingly never-ending home improvement list, we want you to know that we appreciate you!
For June, we’ve put together an issue that spotlights men who are making a difference in the CSRA. We are excited to share about the great things Homewell Care Services is doing under the leadership of Auguste Badiel, including winning several national awards! Auguste uses the intentionality he learned during his military service to ensure clients get the best home healthcare available, allowing them to thrive.
Jeff Hawn, owner of Beacon Automotive and Veterans Towing, supports our community through volunteering with local schools and a mechanics ministry. His heart to help others also shines through as he serves his customers with integrity, honesty, and loyalty - values he is passing along to the next generation.
For many years, the DeFoor family has been a steady, consistent presence in our community. In this issue, John DeFoor shares about working with family and how they strive to make a positive impact locally and around the world.
As you take in these stories and the other fun articles that we have in store for you this month, we hope you will be inspired and encouraged!
JANA MORRIS, PUBLISHER @CSRACITYLIFESTYLE
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Jana Morris | jana.morris@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Michelle Parnell | michelle.parnell@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Allison Spence | allison.spence@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Daniel Morris
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Miranda Sprouse
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Eve Crabtree, Kim Hill, Michelle Parnell
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Christie DeFoor, Brittany Dawn Short
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
1-7: The President’s Brunch held during the Alumni Weekend at Augusta University.
8: The Kiokee Kruisers, sponsored by Kiokee Baptist Church, had a great turnout for their recent cruise-in! People’s Choice winners (L-R): 1st place - Robert Cantey ‘58 Dodge W100, 2nd place - Scott Woodham ‘55 Ford F100, 3rd place - Jeff Gay 56 Ford F100. 9: 4th place - Travis Rimmer ‘69 Ford Mustang. 10: 5th place - Bernie Jones ‘61 Chevrolet Biscayne. 11-14: Glimpses of just a few of the 211 amazing vehicles at the cruise-in.
Photography by Kiokee Kruisers and Nancy Wall
Brian and Beth Carter settle for nothing but the best in each home that they build. No two homes are ever alike, giving each homeowner a beautiful, unique home all their own - one that Brian and Beth would be proud to live in themselves.
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Augusta Welcomes Dave’s Hot Chicken
Hot chicken arrived in Augusta earlier this spring, as Dave’s Hot Chicken opened its doors and brought its signature flavors and vibrant, art-filled atmosphere to the area. Each wall features custom, hand-painted artwork inspired by Augusta, making the space as much an experience as the menu. It has quickly become a bold addition to the local dining scene.
Grovetown Museum
Grovetown recently celebrated the grand opening of a new museum, creating a space dedicated to preserving and sharing the city’s history. The museum offers residents and visitors a chance to explore local heritage through thoughtfully curated exhibits. This new addition reflects a growing commitment to honoring the past while bringing the community together.
Harlem City Park
A meaningful addition to the community was recently celebrated with the dedication of Harlem City Park. The new space reflects a shared vision brought to life through collaboration and commitment, offering residents a place to gather, play, and enjoy the outdoors. It’s always inspiring to see projects like this come together for the benefit of the community.
Effortless Lifestyle
Experience happiness and togetherness at Barclay House of Augusta. Whether you’re enjoying a delicious home-style meal or joining in an exciting activity, each day will be filled with fun and a sense of belonging. Call (762) 223-2372 today to come visit our community.
At our community, real happiness comes from having the freedom to do what you love. Sit down to delightful meals in a restaurant-style setting, discover an interesting new hobby, or unwind in our full-service salon. Call today to schedule a personal tour and start choosing a happier lifestyle.
Washington Commons
Columbia County’s Walk, Run, & Roll
Mondays and Wednesdays are getting a major upgrade with Walk, Run & Roll, a free weekly fitness group hosted by Columbia County for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or enjoying a relaxed stroll, everyone is welcome. Meet at a new trail or park each week at 9:00a.m. for a 60-minute session. Pre-activity snacks are provided. Come move, connect, and explore together. Sign up here: bit.ly/WalkRunRoll26
Welcome Health Expands in Evans
A new chapter is opening this June for Welcome Health, as the practice brings its entire team together under one roof at its new Evans location. The move creates a central hub for care, offering expanded services, increased provider availability, and a more streamlined patient experience. It’s a thoughtful step forward in making healthcare more accessible for the community.
Scan to read more
Tacos Take Over the Morning
A new breakfast spot arrived in North Augusta this April. Beanie Bens Breakfast Tacos opened on Georgia Avenue, serving up fresh, made-toorder tacos to start the day right. With a focus on simple ingredients and big flavor, it’s quickly becoming a go-to for locals looking to shake up their morning routine.
Surcheros Celebrates New Location
A new location is now serving customers for Surcheros in Augusta, with doors recently opening off Wheeler Road. The ribbon cutting marked an exciting addition to the local dining scene, bringing fresh flavors and a familiar favorite to a new part of town.
Five Years of Clean Success
A milestone worth celebrating, Home Clean Heroes marks five years in business and was recently welcomed to the Chamber with a ribbon cutting celebration. The occasion highlighted both their continued growth and commitment to serving the community, making it a moment to recognize a local business that continues to shine.
Fireside Moves Forward
After 15 memorable years on Broad Street, Fireside Kitchens & Grills has officially begun its next chapter at West Town Market Square. The move to Martinez marks an exciting new beginning, bringing fresh energy to a longtime local favorite. It’s a bittersweet close to one chapter and a warm welcome to what’s next for this trusted name in the community.
Keeping the CSRA Running Smoothly
Jeff Hawn’s commitment to serving the community shows in his everyday life and the way he runs his businesses, Beacon Automotive and Veterans Towing
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Being active in and giving back to the community comes naturally to Jeff Hawn. He and his wife, Jenell, own Beacon Automotive and Veterans Towing & Recovery. They start giving back by conducting their businesses with honesty, loyalty, and integrity. “We’re a Christian owned company, so those values are very important to us,” Jeff shares. Both businesses are family owned and operated, with adult children Holly, Tristan, and Trace learning firsthand how important those values are to a successful life and business.
Opening Beacon Automotive was a natural fit for Jeff, who grew up around cars. “My dad spent twenty-four years in the military, and he always worked on cars on the side,” says Jeff. “When I joined the military, I joined as a mechanic and served for about nine and a half years.” When Jeff got out of the Army, he spent another fifteen years as a government contractor, all the while thinking about opening his own business. “The opportunity came along where this place became available, so I opened this shop fourteen years ago,” he adds. “I wish I had started it earlier.”
Beacon Automotive provides vehicle maintenance and repair that ranges from oil changes and tires to new engines and transmissions. “We do pretty much everything,” Jeff explains. “We even subcontract with someone who puts in windshields and another guy who does headliners and stuff like that - all at a great price for great work.”
Veterans Towing & Recovery offers essential services at fair prices to people who find themselves in a tough situation, and they do it in a way that honors our military community. “With me being a veteran and being close to a military base, we not only decided to call it Veterans Towing, but we decal our trucks like military trucks,” he says. “We’ve got an Army truck, a Navy truck, and a Marine truck.”
As a member of Wesley United Methodist Church, Jeff is involved in a mechanics ministry. “We have people who donate used vehicles to the church, and we get to fix those vehicles, make them operational, and make sure there are no check engine lights that need to be addressed,” explains Jeff.
“We’ve given away hundreds of vehicles through the mechanics ministry. It’s something we enjoy doing and when you have a single mom with three or four kids, and you see the look on her face when you give her a vehicle, it’s priceless.”
Jeff invests in today’s youth by opening the shop for students to learn what his team does in hopes that some of them will gravitate towards mechanics when they graduate. He also supports local athletic programs and volunteers as a coach. “For quite a few years, I was at Augusta Christian coaching football as a volunteer. This year I’ll be over at Covenant Christian Academy coaching their football program,” he says. “I enjoy helping out in the community, being around kids, and being a positive influence in their lives.”
Stop in and meet Jeff and family at Beacon Automotive, located at 475 Lewiston Road in Grovetown. For more information, visit beaconautocsra.com or call 706-388-5486 (shop) or 706-7154775 (towing). Also follow Beacon Automotive and Veterans Towing & Recovery on Facebook.
SETTING THE Standard FOR Compassionate IN-HOME Care
HomeWell Care Services of Augusta’s executive director on leading the CSRA in exceptional, dedicated care
ARTICLE BY EVE CRABTREE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Auguste Badiel spent 24 years serving in the U.S. Army and now, as a veteran, continues to serve others by leading the Augusta branch of HomeWell Care Services. “After retiring from the military, I knew I wanted to continue serving, but in a way that was more directly connected to people and community,” Auguste shares. “That path led me to HomeWell Care Services in Augusta.”
Going from military work to healthcare seems like quite a jump, but the similarities are greater than most people would anticipate. “In the military, I was responsible for ensuring teams operated effectively under pressure, maintaining readiness, and supporting people in critical moments,” Auguste explains. “In home care, the stakes are just as real because families are trusting us with their loved ones. The same core principles apply: leadership, structure, accountability, and compassion.”
Through personalized, dependable support, HomeWell serves families by providing Companion Care, Personal Care, Specialty Care, On-Demand & Transitional Care, and Transportation & Concierge Services. Each care plan is personalized, and caretakers prioritize building relationships with those they serve. Their standard of care sets them apart and they’ve recently received multiple awards for their excellence in care and caregiver training. “We were honored by Activated Insights as a Best of Home Care® –Leader in Training 2026,” Auguste shares, “and we were presented with two more prestigious awards at the 2026 HomeWell Annual Conference: the Brand Champion Operator Award and the Brand Influencer Award. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as no other agency has earned both distinctions within its first year of operation.”
Auguste’s caregiver team is making a real difference in the lives of those they serve—one of Auguste’s favorite parts of HomeWell. “I love the human impact,” he says. “In this field, we don’t have to wait to see results, we witness them every day.” In addition to helping people be able to stay in their homes, Auguste has many stories of people who have regained parts of their lives they had lost. “We’ve seen clients return to hobbies like gardening, attend church again, celebrate milestones with family, or simply enjoy sitting on their porch with a sense of peace and familiarity,” he shares. “These moments may seem small,
but they represent something much bigger: independence, connection, and quality of life.”
Through removing everyday challenges and safety concerns that typically lead people to relocation outside the home, HomeWell is proactively working to improve clients’ wellbeing and increase longevity.
“Home care is not just about responding to a crisis, it’s about planning ahead and enhancing life,” Auguste explains. “Our entire model is built around making independent living sustainable.” HomeWell brings care and helps restore independence after crises, but they also work preventively to keep people living in the comfort of their home. “Home represents comfort, identity, and independence,” Auguste says. “When individuals can remain in their own environment, they maintain control over their daily lives, stay connected to their memories, and experience greater emotional well-being.” Having in-home care makes a real difference in all aspects of a person’s health and their ability to be with family and friends.
Auguste sees the difference HomeWell is making and is proud to be serving his community in this way. “For me, this isn’t just a business,” Auguste says, “it’s a continuation of a lifelong commitment to service.” He continually ensures that HomeWell of Augusta delivers care that is compassionate and professional, setting the standard for in-home care. “HomeWell Care Services is about more than care,” he shares, “it’s about connection, dignity, and ensuring that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.”
Auguste encourages families and those wanting in-home care to reach out to HomeWell. For those who prefer to connect via phone or online, call (706) 750-0550, visit their website: HomeWellCares. com/in-home-care-ga-evans-ga290, or check out HomeWell of Augusta’s social media—Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Google My Business, and TikTok. Those who would like to learn more in-person can do so through HomeWell’s free in-home assessment or by visiting their office at 141 N Belair Road, Suite 102, Evans.
One of HomeWell of Augusta’s caregivers, Cynthia Thomas, was nominated for the Heart of HomeWell Award—the highest HomeWell award given to caregivers who show exceptional dedication and compassion.
“Cynthia embodies care with skill and heart,” Auguste shares. “In one situation, Cynthia cared for a client during her final days and supported the client’s blind husband—going beyond her assigned responsibilities.” Even after the client passed, Cynthia helped the spouse through daily life and grief. She goes beyond what’s required, never misses shifts, and visits hospitalized clients so they never miss care.
“I’m incredibly proud of having caregivers like Cynthia in the CSRA,” Auguste says. “She represents the compassion, dedication, and humanity that defines HomeWell.”
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
DEEPLY ROOTED
Family Tradition
JOHN DEFOOR REFLECTS ON HIS FAMILY’S COMMITMENT TO SERVING THE CSRA WITH INTEGRITY AND CARE
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTIE DEFOOR
The DeFoor family’s roots run deep in the CSRA, making their connection to the people and land especially meaningful. “I’m the seventh generation on the same farm and I live in my grandparents’ house that was built in 1945,” shares John DeFoor. “Being so rooted in our community means knowing where things began, seeing where they are now, and having that perspective to see the vision of where they are going. We’ve been here long enough to understand and see the patterns and growth in our area.”
It’s this combination of that history and innovative thinking that has made DeFoor Realty, founded in 1980 by Lloyd DeFoor, a leading real estate firm in the CSRA. Lloyd’s ability to capture a vision for properties is now carried on by his sons, John and Jeff, as well as a close-knit team of professionals who work together to help clients realize their dreams.
Growing up, John had a front row seat watching his dad work with the land his family knew so well. So, it was natural for John to follow in his father’s steps. “I got my real estate license while I was in college. When I got out of college, I first started building houses under dad’s brokerage and built over 100 houses in 10 years,” says John. “Then dad wanted to get more involved in leading international mission trips and asked me to take over the real estate company. I had to make a decision whether to continue in construction or to move to the real estate side, and I decided to transition to real estate.”
Since that time, John’s brother Jeff and sister-in-law Christie have officially joined the firm, with the rest of the family close by, always willing to pitch in and help. “It’s special being as close as I am with my family. Thankfully, we all get along really well, and we know each other inside and out,” says John. “Most of the time, when someone makes a decision, we know what they were thinking without asking. When I make a decision, everyone trusts my judgement.”
Working with family does have one drawback, though. “We never get to have a full family vacation,” explains John. “We can’t really travel all together because somebody needs to be here to make decisions.”
Part of working with family, and a team who feels like family, is that they all work together seamlessly for the good of the client. “We believe in a personal connection,” says John. “When you get us, you get a team. It’s not just one individual realtor that you’re getting; you’re getting all of us and all the resources we have.”
Living, working, and playing in the same community brings a higher level of accountability, something the DeFoor family takes seriously. “If I do somebody wrong, I’m going to see them in the grocery store or at church, so we live to a higher standard than what any of our professional ethical standards call for,” shares John. “Our faith is also very important to us. We’re a faith-based organization. We pray in our meeting every Tuesday morning and when people come in and have a problem, the first thing we ask them is if we can pray for them or with them.”
Giving back to the community is another important aspect of the DeFoor family’s identity. They serve through involvement with local food banks and schools, the YMCA’s Camp Lakeside, the Jud C. Hickey Center for Alzheimer’s Care, and local chapters of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).
“We are very thankful for the many people who trust us and continue to have confidence in us.”
“In high school, my dad came to know Christ when an older man came to football practice and invited him to church,” shares John. “After marriage, he became more involved in church and different Christian organizations like FCA. Today, we still believe that FCA is an important way to involve young people in growing their faith.”
The family is actively involved with Damascus Baptist Church and Lloyd’s passion for international missions continues as he leads medical mission teams through Global Health Outreach, the mission arm of the Christian Medical and Dental Association.
The DeFoor family’s connections to the community and expertise in the many different avenues of real estate make DeFoor Realty a go-to firm for those who want expert guidance. “We are very thankful for the many people who trust us and continue to have confidence in us,” says John. “We are so fortunate and blessed that most of our business comes from personal referrals.”
DEFOOR REALTY
DeFoor Realty, located at 6430 Ridge Road in Appling, serves the greater CSRA and works with residential and commercial properties, including investment properties, land development, and is the local expert on lake properties. To connect with DeFoor Realty, visit d4realty.com, call 706-541-0637, and follow DeFoor Realty on social media.
Shannon Whitwell MSN,APRN, FNP-C
Samantha Tojino DNP, FNP-C, IF, NCMP ABAAHP
A CREATIVE APPROACH TO COMMUNITY OUTREACH
SECOND BLESSINGS CONSIGNMENT SERVES THE COMMUNITY THROUGH SEASONAL SALES, OFFERING EARLY ACCESS TO TEACHERS, FOSTER FAMILIES, MILITARY PERSONNEL, AND EXPECTING MOTHERS
Three times a year, the Second Blessings Consignment sale provides local families an opportunity to buy or sell brand new to gently used items at their warehouse-style seasonal consignment sales. “We pretty much carry anything you have in your home – clothing, décor, kitchen items, craft and school supplies, toys, games, and so much more,” says Melissa Cates, owner of Second Blessings Consignment.
"We pretty much carry anything you have in your home –clothing, décor, kitchen items, craft and school supplies, toys, games, and so much more.”
Many local families anticipate the sales, lining up on the sidewalk hours before the doors open. “We do this for the community, and one of our favorite things is to see familiar faces from past sales and meet and speak with new customers about the great deals they found.”
One way Second Blessings helps the community is by allowing foster families, teachers, military families, and expecting moms to have access to the sale a day before the public. “The recent government shutdowns helped us realize how many people in the community rely on our sales,” says Melissa.
As the seasonal sales enter the last two days, items are marked down to twenty-five, then fifty percent off, followed by the “Dollar Dash” during the final 2 hours of the sale, where items marked as Donate sell for only $1. At the end of the sale, the remaining items marked as Donate are donated to local charitable organizations
This summer’s sale is scheduled for July 11-18 at the Augusta Mall (downstairs, underneath and behind the Apple Store) at 3450 Wrightsboro Road. Early shopping privileges are extended to volunteers, consigners, military personnel, foster families, teachers and expecting moms on July 10. Registration to consign is open now and drop-off of items begins on June 20.
For more information and to register as a consignor, visit www.secondblessingsaugusta.com and follow Second Blessings Augusta on Facebook.
Waxing Done With Care
Fire Up the Griddle, Hit the Links, and Shine Your Ride with CSRA City Lifestyle
THE ULTIMATE SUMMER KICKOFF GIVEAWAY
In the CSRA, June isn’t just a month on the calendar—it’s a lifestyle. It’s the smell of backyard hibachi, the sound of a perfect drive echoing off the fairway, and the pride of a truck that gleams under the Georgia sun.
At CSRA City Lifestyle, we believe this summer should be your best one yet. That’s why we’ve partnered with some of our favorite local experts to bring you a giveaway package that defines “Summer in the South”. Whether you’re a grill master, a golf enthusiast, or just looking for the ultimate family hang-out, this is the prize you’ve been waiting for.
ARTICLE BY JANA MORRIS
THE GRAND PRIZE LINEUP
The Backyard Game-Changer: Blackstone 36” Omnivore Griddle — Say goodbye to flipping one burger at a time. We are giving away the legendary Blackstone 4-Burner 36” Propane Griddle. Featuring the new Omnivore Griddle Plate technology and a sleek hard cover, this machine is built for everything from sunrise pancakes and bacon to sunset smashburgers and philly cheesesteaks. It’s not just a grill; it’s an outdoor kitchen that makes you the MVP of the neighborhood.
The Showroom Shine: A Full Detail from All About Trucks and Autos — Summer road trips and lake days can take a toll on your vehicle. We’re including a professional car detail from the experts at All About Trucks and Autos in Grovetown. They’ll have your ride looking like it just rolled off the lot, ensuring you arrive at your summer destinations in style.
The Family Hangout: Topgolf Summer Fun Pass — Keep the fun going all season long! One winner will receive a Topgolf Summer Fun Pass (a $179 value). This pass delivers unlimited daily gameplay for you and up to five friends or family members per visit through the end of the season. Plus, you’ll enjoy exclusive discounts on their delicious menu. It’s the perfect way to beat the heat and stay active with the whole crew.
The Weekend Escape: Golf for Four at Rocky Branch — Grab your clubs and three of your best friends! We’re including a round of golf for four at the beautiful Rocky Branch Golf Course in Lincolnton. Known for its scenic views and challenging layout, it’s the ultimate afternoon getaway just a short drive from home.
HOW TO ENTER
We want to make this as easy as a Sunday afternoon. To get your name in the hat, follow these simple steps:
1. Visit us on social media: Head over to the CSRA City Lifestyle Facebook or Instagram page.
2. Find the Pinned Post: Look for the "Ultimate Summer Giveaway" post pinned to the top of our feed and follow the instructions on the post.
IMPORTANT DATES
• Contest Ends: June 24th
• Winner Announced: June 29th
Don’t let this June pass you by without a chance to upgrade your summer. Head over to our social pages today, enter to win, and let’s make 2026 a summer to remember! Follow us @CSRACityLifestyle for updates and more local highlights.
WIN THE ULTIMATE SUMMER
Ready to level up your June? From Blackstone smashburgers to unlimited Topgolf swings, this prize pack is built for CSRA fun. Follow @CSRACityLifestyle on Facebook or Instagram and enter on our pinned post by June 24th One lucky winner takes it all on June 29th!
ARTICLE BY KIM HILL
GUYS’ GUYS’ GETAWAYS GETAWAYS
FOUR GREAT PLACES FOR GROOVES, GRUB AND GAWKING WITH BEST BROS
Has it been too long since your tribe gathered to rib and one-up each other as only guys can do? To help plan a getaway for just the guys, City Lifestyle gathered an eclectic list of locations offering tons of things to see, do and experience. Here’s hoping the only ribs one will get on this guys’ getaway are the kind to hold in hands while barbecue sauce drips onto shirts.
Scottsdale/Phoenix
There’s no other tournament on the PGA Tour like the Waste Management Phoenix Open and no hole like the legendary 16th, where 20,000 boisterous fans boo the tee shots that miss the green. The other 51 weeks of the year, golfers can play TPC Scottsdale or try one of more than 200 courses in the Scottsdale area, a top golf destination. Another winter event is the BarrettJackson Collector Car Auction. Even if one’s only collector car was a Hot Wheels, it’s a blast to peruse the acres of autos for
sale before heading inside to watch the unique or renowned cars crossing the auction block. When it’s time to get moving, the strenuous hike up Camelback Mountain in nearby Phoenix is a bucket-list item. Need a more moderate trail? Experience the same magic of the majestic saguaro cactus in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
New Orleans
It’s always a party in New Orleans (NOLA), especially when it comes to festivals, many of them centered around music. Folk to funk, gospel to jazz, zydeco, blues, African and other musical styles are celebrated on the Jazz and Heritage Festival’s 12 stages. If free admission is more desired, don’t miss the French Quarter Festival featuring local musicians and food vendors representing dozens of New Orleans restaurants. Part of the fun of Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo is admiring revelers’ watercraft, some of them homemade just for this festival on the banks of Bayou Saint John. If one of the festivals can’t be attended, there’s still plenty of NOLA live music, particularly the jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street. And when a break from crowds is needed, take a guided swamp tour. Kitschy, yes, but it’s a hoot to cruise around on a swamp buggy while looking for alligators.
Bowling Green, Kentucky
“America’s Sports Car” is produced at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, where visitors can join guided tours to observe Corvettes being built and learn the fascinating history of these sexy autos. See examples of all Corvette generations at the National Corvette Museum. And if the need for speed is still felt, a few times a year Xtreme Experience offers driving or ride-along events in exotics like Ferraris or Lamborghinis at the National Corvette Museum Motorsports Park. After getting all revved up, cool down at Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest known cave system in the world and a World Heritage Site, where guided tours take participants through tunnels humans have used for thousands of years. And after all this touring, the Bowling Green area is the southernmost point in the Kentucky Bourbon Trail of distilleries.
Austin
Live music rules here, with iconic venues such as Antone’s, The Continental Club, the White Horse and hundreds of other locations, from dive bars to big stages. From rock and blues to country and urban, music is heard every night of the week (and many afternoons as well). When guys are hungry, there are tons of barbeque and Tex-Mex joints. Unique food trucks are truly a thing here, with nearly 2,000 food trailers in town. Burn some calories biking or running the Southern Walnut Creek Trail or one of many paved paths. Get out on the water in a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard on Lake Travis or Lady Bird Lake. Take a dip in the historic Barton Springs Pool, where the underground springs keep the water around 68 degrees all year.
Hi,
Johnathan Watkins
JUNE 4TH, 11TH, 18TH, 25TH
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
Veggie Park Farmers Market
631 Chafee Ave Suite 102, Augusta, GA 30904 | 4:00 PM
The Veggie Park Farmers Market offers a welcoming indoor space to shop fresh produce every Thursday with seasonal goods from local farmers, producers, and crafters. Hosted by Augusta Locally Grown, the market celebrates local food, sustainability, and community connection, rain or shine. Visit augustalocallygrown.org for more info.
JUNE 5TH
Mahj & Mingle
500 Furys Ferry Rd, Augusta, GA 30907 | 11:00 AM
Mahj & Mingle takes place every first Friday from 11:00a.m.–2:00p.m. at Dink’d, offering experienced Mahjong players a lively social setting. Enjoy games, prizes, and rotating pop-ups with local vendors, along with cocktails available for purchase. A fun mid-day gathering for those looking to connect and play.
Tickets: book.dinkdpickleball.com/programs/mahjong
JUNE 6TH, 13TH, 20TH, 27TH
Last Month for the Evans Market
The Market Pavilion, 1000 Market Street, Evans, GA 30809
The Evans Market wraps up its season this month, with final Saturdays running through June 27 from 9:00a.m.–1:00p.m. Browse a variety of local farmers, artisans, and vendors as the community gathers one last time for fresh finds and handmade goods. Don’t miss the final chance to enjoy this seasonal favorite.
JUNE 6TH, 13TH, 20TH, 27TH
2026
Candlelight Music Series
Augusta Common, 836 Reynolds Street, Augusta, GA 30901 | 7:00 PM
The Candlelight Music Series invites guests to enjoy an evening of live music at Augusta Common every Saturday this month. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs, picnics, and beverages for a relaxed outdoor experience. Admission is $10, offering a simple and enjoyable way to gather with the community and unwind under the evening sky.
JUNE 10TH
Grovetown Farmers Market
Grovetown United Methodist Church, 206 E Robinson Ave, Grovetown, GA 30813 | 4:00 PM
The Grovetown Farmers Market, hosted by the Grovetown Garden Club in partnership with Augusta Locally Grown, takes place on second Wednesdays at Grovetown United Methodist Church. This community-focused market connects residents with local growers, artisans, and fresh, seasonal goods while fostering relationships between gardeners, farmers, and neighbors. A welcoming space to support local and enjoy the region’s harvest.
JUNE 10TH
SIX: The Musical
Columbia County Performing Arts Center, 1000 Market Street, Evans, GA 30809 | 7:30 PM
SIX: The Musical brings the six wives of Henry VIII to life in a high-energy pop concert experience. Blending history with modern music, this global sensation reimagines royal stories with bold performances and empowering themes. Celebrated worldwide, the show delivers a dynamic and entertaining take on history for audiences of all ages.
Tickets: thecenterofcc.com/event/six
CONTINUED
JUNE 12TH
Food Truck Friday
Columbia County Gateway Park, 215 Partnership Drive, Grovetown, GA 30813 | 6:00 PM
Food Truck Friday returns this summer, offering a lively evening of local food trucks, live entertainment, and community fun. Guests can enjoy a variety of flavors while gathering with friends and family in a festive outdoor setting. A perfect way to kick off the weekend with great food and great company.
JUNE 13TH
Grovetown Pickle Fest
Columbia County Exhibition Center, 212 Partnership Drive Grovetown, GA 30813 | 11:00 AM
Grovetown hosts its first-ever Pickle Fest from 11:00a.m.-6:00p.m., celebrating all things pickled with food, desserts, and unique crafts. This lively community event invites guests to explore creative vendors and enjoy a fun, flavor-filled atmosphere. A playful addition to the local event calendar, Pickle Fest promises something for curious food lovers and families alike.
JUNE 27TH, 28TH
Augusta Reptile Show
Warren Road Community Center, 300 Warren Road, Augusta, GA 30907 | 9:00 AM
The Show Me Reptile Show brings one of the nation’s largest reptile expos to town, featuring a wide variety of reptiles, amphibians, and exotic animals. Guests can explore, learn, and connect with experts while enjoying an educational, family-friendly experience. Admission options are available, with VIP access offering early entry and additional perks.
For tickets and upcoming show dates, visit: ShowMeReptileShow.com.
