Issuu

N OV E M B E R 2 02 0

TH E TH A N KFU L I SSU E

TThe music hasn’t “ stopped.

Instead, indoor concerts are now courtyard serenades.

”

At Camellia Walk, caring protection and joyful moments live in harmony. We invite you to learn more about how our creative, compassionate staff, person-directed care and welcoming environment enriches life for our residents and their families. Call for more information or to schedule a virtual tour. We’re here to help!

Camellia Walk • 3949 Evans to Locks Road • Evans, GA 30809 • 706-471-1641 • CamelliaWalk.com

(706) 736-8478

ohdaugusta.com

OVERHEAD DOOR COMPANY OF AUGUSTA™

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

Fall in Love with Your Garage Door. Design according to your style. Call us today for a free estimate!

The industry leader for 98 years (1921-2019). // Locally serving the CSRA for 44 years (1975-2019). CityLifestyle.com/Evans

LIFESTYLE LETTER

NOVEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Jana Morris | jana.morris@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Happy Thanksgiving, Evans!

Lydia Kaye Clothey | lydia.clothey@lifestylepubs.com ACCO UNT MANAGERS

Kathy Kelley | kathy.kelley@lifestylepubs.com Lisa Story | lisa.story@lifestylepubs.com

NOVEMBER PROVIDES OPPORTUNITY FOR REFLECTION, A TIME TO SLOW

AD DESIGNER

DOWN BEFORE THE BUSY HOLIDAY SEASON AND FOCUS ON WHAT’S TRULY

Matthew Endersbe

IMPORTANT. We believe that’s staying connected with one another and our community. Join us as we take a behind-the-scenes look into the amazing creations of Frank Strausser, who is using his gift of creating superhero costumes to bring a smile to

L AYO UT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

the faces of so many.

Lydia Kaye Clothey, Aaron Hayes, Nicolette Martin, Michelle W. Parnell

Speaking of heroes, we’re surrounded by real-life heroes on a daily basis, and we are

Adrion Bell, Randy Pace, Sanjeev Singhal

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

catching up with a few local veterans who have served our country well and chose our beautiful community as their forever home. We’re also visiting Madison Heights Assisted Living Community and exploring ways to stay connected with loved ones during the holidays. Church planter, author, and speaker Francis Chan opens up about his journey to refocus his life on the things that really matter. As we gather with those who matter most to us for the Thanksgiving holiday, food

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

often takes center stage. Jennifer Shuford of Tastefully Yours Catering shares her rec-

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

ipe for pear vanilla upside down cake, a sweet that is perfect for the Thanksgiving table.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

We hope you’re inspired to take time this month to see the heroes among us, thank a

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

veteran for their service, and intentionally connect with family, friends, and the commu-

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

nity. Happy Thanksgiving, Evans. We’ll see you next month!

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Jana Morris, Publisher

CityLifestyle.com/Evans ON THE COVER Francis Chan, featured on page 29 in “Walking the Walk” 4

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

Proverbs 3:5-6 Evans Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Evans area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Evans Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

5 STAR

Zillow Reviews Average Price Home Sold

$434,986 Listed Homes Sold in

4 DAYS or less

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR HOME ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑

More exposure More knowledge of the market More innovative marketing tactics More interest from prospective buyers A seamless virtual selling experience

Susan Salisbury

317.847.7216 / 706.868.1000 SSalisbury@blanchardandcalhoun.com

CityLifestyle.com/Evans

INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2020

FEATURES 12 Tasty Thanksgiving Treats Ever had pear vanilla upside down cake? We hear it's delish!

14 Taking Memory Care to New Heights Find how to encourage and connect with loved ones over the holidays!

18 Hero-Owned and Operated Four local veterans share why they chose to make Evans their home

24 12

24 Homemade Hero Meet Frank Strausser, owner of Props and Heroes

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Culinary Creations

Healthy Lifestyle

Hometown Hero

24 Locally Owned 29 Faith Reflections 32 Lifestyle Calendar

CityLifestyle.com/Evans

GOOD TIMES

Barney's Pharmacy Staff Joins Miracle Mile Walk 2020 Kudos to the Barney's Pharmacy staff who participated in the first virtual Miracle Mile Walk on Saturday October 3rd, 2020! Participants used #MiracleMileWalk2020 to share photos and the why behind their walk. Held each year by University Hospital in honor and memory of those affected by Breast Cancer, the walk has grown from 90 walkers in 2001 to over 15,000!

C r e a te y o u r

DREAM

a u t u m n - rea d y

outdo or space! QUICK RESPONSES • FAST ESTIMATES • LICENSED, BONDED, & INSURED

O u t d O Or K i t c h e ns by

Harrison Masonry

Call for Your Estimate Today! 706.945.7809 8

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

Thankful

Life may have slowed down for some, but not for the residents at Madison Heights! We are so THANKFUL for all our happy faces.

(706) 364-8707 2822 Knob Hill Farm Rd., Evans, GA 30809 MadisonHeightsEvans.com

WINDOW TINT

LIFETIME WARRANTY

// 16 YEARS EXPERIENCE

YOU R C E RT I F I E D C LU B F I T T E R I N AUGUSTA

EXPERIENCE MATTERS Using science and engineering to perform fittings, ensuring that only the best for each individual is selected and built. The only club fitter in the CSRA who holds certificates in clubfitting and club building from both Golfworks and Golfsmith. The only clubfitter in the area who is also a USGTF golf instructor and coach. The only clubfitter in the CSRA who fits and builds Tom Wishon Golf Technology single length Sterling Irons. The only club maker in the area who is certified by three different shaft companies in their shaft technology and performance.

Mention this ad for $10 OFF

706.910.2614 www.augustacustomclubs.com

(706) 855-8768 // AllAboutTrucksLLC.com

window tint for a four-door vehicle.

640 South Old Belair Road

CityLifestyle.com/Evans

AROUND TOWN

DIABETES PREVENTION CLASSES NOW OFFERED AT BARNEY'S PHARMACY

custom Christmas gifts. You can see his work

Barney’s Pharmacy is starting a diabetes preven-

call 706-699-2425 to place your order and learn

tion class at their Peach Orchard location! Attendees will get a lot of helpful tools on how to lose weight, keep it off, and avoid developing diabetes. If you are interested, please contact Zoe or Christie at 706798-5645. Enrollment begins November first.

FRANNY'S FARMACY GRAND OPENING

at Genesis L.A.W. at 638 S Old Belair Road or more about pricing and custom work.

DECORATOR’S OUTLET & INTERIORS CURRENTLY HIRING Love making local homes beautiful? Possess the skills to assist designers in their search and the know-how to help DIY shoppers? If you’ve

We're pleased to announce the grand open-

got a background in retail and design, contact

ing of Franny’s Farmacy! The celebration will

Decorator’s Outlet & Interiors at 706-855-5070;

be held November 12th through 15th at 5121

you might be the perfect fit!

Washington Rd, Suite 1 in Evans. There will be free samples, free massages, light hors d’oeuvres, and a raffle for a $100 retail prize! Please come by and show your support for this new local business.

GAMECHANGERS FOUNDATION UPDATE GameChangers is progressing toward the vision of opening in January of 2021! Thanks to the hard work and very generous contributions of many,

FALL PORTRAITS BY RANDY PACE Randy Pace is offering fall portraits at Brick Pond Park in North Augusta, SC. The photo shoot date will be Saturday, November 14th, 2020. Socially distanced mini sessions are available for $75 for 30 minutes. Contact 864-980-4473 for times available.

INTRODUCING THE CEDARHURST PROMISE

including Edgefield Baptist Church and Michael

Facing decisions about a loved one’s assisted

Siewert of Signature Interiors, the main housing has

living or memory care? Camellia Walk can help

been completed. The team is in the process of drilling

you find the answer. They are committed to your

a successful well and planting a tree farm to provide

contentment, offering the Cedarhurst Promise: a

constructive work and learning skills. GameChangers

complete refund if you’re not satisfied and decide

is looking for a qualified professional to manage

to move out within your first 60 days! Call 706-

the men within the program. Will Dalzell and all

471-1641 to schedule a confidential conversation or

involved are looking forward to opening the doors

Q&A Zoom meeting with their Executive Director,

to serve many! To support the cause, please visit

and something good is bound to happen.

GameChangersFoundationSC.org. For progress pictures, visit Facebook.com/GameChangersSC.

SCHEDULE HOLIDAY GROOMING WITH FURBABIES Get your pups and feline friends ready for holiday company! Furbabies is dedicated to getting your furry family looking their very best, and they'll even come to you. Local pets love the Furbabies team, and you'll love how happy your fur baby is after this stress-free and fun spa day for them! Call 762-685-8071 for more info or go to Moego.Pet to make an appointment.

GIVE CUSTOM ARTWORK THIS CHRISTMAS Local accepting 10

artist Lane

Harman is

commissions

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

for

currently

one-of-a-kind,

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ Evans using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

Call today for a free estimate and consultation on how Paint Augusta can help get your home ready for the holidays.

We can paint any project. (706) 993-9463 WWW.PAINTAUG.COM

FREE ESTIMATES (706) 863-5399 W W W.LOVELACEROOFING.COM Residential & Commercial / Roofing / Siding / Windows / Gutters

CityLifestyle.com/Evans

CULINARY CREATIONS

t ast y t ha n ksg iv in g treats ENJOY THIS PEAR VANILLA UPSIDE DOWN CAKE FROM JENNIFER SHUFORD OF TASTEFULLY YOURS CATERING ARTICLE LYDIA KAYE CLOTHEY PHOTOGRAPHY ADRION BELL

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

pea r va n i l l a upside dow n c a ke IN MANY WAYS, THANKSGIVING IS SYNONYMOUS WITH DELICIOUS FARE. This sweet dessert recipe is compliments of Jennifer Shuford, owner of Tastefully Yours Catering, and is sure to delight. Enjoy the soft, seasonal scents and flavors of these cakes along with your annual favorites.

i n g re d ient s FOR THE TOPPING: + 1/4 cup light brown sugar + 3 tablespoons unsalted butter + 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (a little more if you prefer salty caramel) + 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste + 4 fresh pear slices, 1/4” thick (may have to be cut down to size of ramekin) FOR THE CAKE: + 1/3 cup cake flour + 1/3 cup all purpose flour + 1/2 cup granulated sugar + 1/2 teaspoon baking powder + 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt + 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cold + 1/3 cup milk (I used 1%) + 1 egg + 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste

i n st r uc t ion s MAKE THE TOPPING: Grease four ramekins. Place the brown sugar, butter, and salt into a small skillet over medium heat. Stir together until the brown sugar has melted and the mixture is well combined. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla bean paste. Divide the mixture evenly between the 4 ramekins and place a pear half into the center of each. MAKE THE CAKE: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flours, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter and mix on low speed until the mixture resembles moist crumbs. Add egg and beat until well combined. Add milk, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean paste and beat for about a minute. Divide batter equally between the four ramekins. Bake for 25 minutes or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Cool slightly on a wire rack. Run a thin knife around edge of each ramekin to loosen cake. Invert onto a serving plate. Note: the tops of cakes may need to be trimmed off (to flatten them) if they've risen to a high dome during baking. CityLifestyle.com/Evans

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

TAKING MEMORY CARE TO NEW HEIGHTS MADISON HEIGHTS PROVIDES WARMTH AND CARE FOR LOVED ONES WHO NEED TO FEEL AT HOME

AT THE INTERSECTION OF A FRIENDLY HOME ENVIRONMENT

AND

SPECIALIZED

PERSONAL

“We are also very family oriented, so they really get to know

CARE,

the staff, and the staff really get to know them as well,” shares

YOU’LL FIND MADISON HEIGHTS, A BEAUTIFULLY AND

Laura. “Our staff works twelve hour shifts, and they get to

THOUGHTFULLY DESIGNED MEMORY CARE ASSISTED

know the residents in the house, including their personalities

LIVING COMMUNITY HERE IN EVANS. “We are a very

and their sleep and eating habits. They truly become a family.”

home-like environment,” says Laura Brown, sales and mar-

Concerts on the lawn, gardening, painting and craft

keting director. “We have four houses, each with twelve resi-

sessions, and outings to museums and restaurants keep

dent rooms. Each house if self-sufficient and gives residents

residents active and engaged in the pleasures of daily life.

a calmer, less stressful environment where they get to know

“Our job is to know their hobbies and what they liked doing

their housemates very well.”

in their past so that we can re-introduce those to the res-

In each home, key elements for residents include comfort

idents,” says Laura. “We want to recognize what they did

and familiarity, beginning with each resident’s room being

like doing, bring that back into their lives, and also intro-

filled with items from home that reflect their personality and

duce them to new activities.”

things they cherish. “We ask families to bring in basically a

Although family members may be skeptical or concerned

bedroom, a bathroom, and especially a favorite chair,” says

about whether their loved one will participate in the fun group

Laura, “...anything like pictures, favorite blankets, and pillows

activities, Laura explains, “Family members need to keep in

that will make the resident know that this is their new home

mind that the resident is with other people, meeting other

and will make them feel safe and familiar.”

people, and they’re doing activities. When residents are sitting

With its intentional design, the separate residences at Madison Heights reduce resident anxiety by keeping the com-

around a table with their peers and they have a paint brush and canvas in front of them, they are more apt to paint.”

munities smaller and making each home the hub of residents’

Even with all the fun activity going on within Madison

activities. “When it comes to dementia, processing is so much

Heights, residents welcome interaction and encouragement

harder, and anxiety can be very high,” explains Laura. “It’s

from family and friends. This holiday season, tap into many fun

easier for our residents to be familiar with their surroundings

ideas to connect with residents and family members.

and for them to find their rooms and also find the common

For example, who doesn’t love getting a good “ole-fash-

areas where they can eat, sit down with everyone else, and do

ioned” letter in the mail? In a time when email and texts

activities or watch television.”

dominate everyday life, take time to handwrite a note or card. “We just finished a card project where people from all over the U.S. sent cards, letters, photos and artwork to our residents,” says Laura. “We received a card from every state and even

ARTICLE MICHELLE W. PARNELL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MADISON HEIGHTS

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

one from Germany! People have continued to send these, so our residents get mail daily, and it makes their day!”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Evans

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE (CONTINUED)

“We also have chalk on every porch so people can come and ‘chalk the walk,’” says Laura. It’s a great way to brighten the days of residents and caregivers as they stroll the grounds or enjoy a sunny afternoon outside. Drawings and sayings can be holiday themed or simply bright and encouraging. Placing decorated yard signs outside of residents’ windows brings joy as well and has been well received by families and residents. “At the beginning of [COVID19 restrictions], we had yard signs available for our families to decorate and put outside the windows of their loved ones, and we had a big turnout for that, so we offered it up again to the families.” Also, you can grab a few friends and family members to organize a parade for residents to enjoy. “We have had several car parades in which people decorated signs and their cars,” says Laura. “The residents also made signs to say hello to all the people in the parade!” With special care and a little extra creativity, you can continue to celebrate everyday life with your loved one while having the assurance that they are being expertly cared for by a thoughtful and qualified staff. For more information on Madison Heights, including long term and respite care services, visit AtlasSeniorLiving.com/ Madison-Heights-Evans or call 762-994-2663. 16

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

Same & Next day Appointments

Affordable Business Plans

Telemedicine Access to Provider

Transparent Pricing

After Hours Phone Access

Wellness Programs

E VA N S D I R ECT P R I MA RY CA R E THE FAMILY HEALTHCARE YOU ALWAYS WANTED

CityLifestyle.com/Evans

HOMETOWN HERO

ARTICLE MICHELLE W. PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY RANDY PACE

Hero-Owned and Operated

FOUR LOCAL VETERANS SHARE WHAT FUELS THEIR BUSINESSES AND WHY THEY CHOSE TO CALL EVANS HOME

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

REAL LIFE HEROES WALK AMONG US! Evans proudly boasts a large military presence, both active duty and retired personnel, so military heroes are intricately woven into the fabric of our society. Many active duty personnel come to love the CSRA while they are stationed at Fort Gordon; they feel at home

“THE ARMY HELPED TO SHAPE ME INTO WHO I AM TODAY.”

within our amazing community and often choose Evans to settle into after retirement. We are so thankful for their service and the sacrifices of veterans and their families, and we recognize that each of our veterans plays a vital role in the Evans community. Shopping at veteran-owned businesses, treating veterans with dignity and respect, and supporting organizations that serve veterans are just a few ways to honor their service. What’s one of our favorite ways to honor veterans? Sharing their stories…

Frank Berry Army Self-proclaimed “military brat,” Army veteran, and owner of Franny’s Farmacy, Frank Berry says, “When I joined the military in 2000, it was going to be a 4 year term, but I liked what I was doing and the friends that I met, so I stayed in. It turned into a 20-year career.” Recently retired, Frank chose to stay in Evans to open his business. He says, “Augusta is my favorite station location because this is where I’m starting my new life, and this area is my favorite as far as my army travels.” Over the course of his career, Frank served in Arizona, Korea, Germany, and Oklahoma. He explains, “Augusta is unique. It’s slow-going even though it’s not small, but it has its fast moments like during the Masters.” “The army helped to shape me into who I am today,” says Frank. “Veterans go through the military, we do what we need to do, and we’ve all done different things. Experiences impact people in different ways. My experiences in Defense

Equal

Opportunity

Management

Institute helped me to understand that everybody has a different perspective.” CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Evans

HOMETOWN HERO (CONTINUED)

Janae Barcus Air Force After serving for four years in the Air Force as an Intelligence Analyst, Janae Barcus, owner of The Buttercup Bakeshop, uses life lessons gleaned from her military service on a daily basis. Those lessons have guided her through opening (and handling the day-to-day challenges of) a new business. Janae says, “One of the best things I learned while in the military is resilience. Never give up, and never say ‘I can’t.’ I strongly believe that we as people are our own worst enemy and that overcoming fear is the best thing you can do for yourself. Invest in yourself and figure things out. When you’re down, don’t dwell on it, but pick yourself back up and learn from it.”

Kristyna Smith Air Force From her five years of service with the Air Force Military Police, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office 9-1-1 Dispatcher Kristyna Smith fondly remembers being rewarded for extraordinary deeds. “You would get ‘coined’ when you did something that was extraordinary and needed to be recognized,” shares Kristyna. “It was always from someone higher ranking who saw you do something that should be recognized. Every time I coined was really special, and each coin has a different story.” “Kristyna served her country in the Air Force, and now, after returning to Columbia County, she continues to serve her community as a 9-1-1 dispatcher,” says her supervisor, Lieutenant John Sherman. “She’s an asset to the Sheriff’s Office, and she’s an asset to our county.”

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

“I TRY TO BE A GOOD PERSON AND ALWAYS TRY TO LOOK OUT FOR OTHERS.”

Orin Jackson with daughter, Anisa

Orin Jackson Army As he remembers his eight years in the Army, Dryer Vent Wizard’s Orin Jackson says, “Germany was definitely my favorite duty station. I love Germany, its culture, and the food.” Orin adds, “The place where I lived was really diverse. I made a lot of good friends over there, and I feel really close with a lot of the people I was

organizations Our local heroes recommend the following organizations, which they find especially helpful to veterans and active service military personnel.

stationed with there – they are my closest friends.” “My favorite thing I brought back from my time in Germany,” Orin says, “is my daughter, Anisa. She was born in Germany, and she’s about to go into the military too. She’s going into the Air Force.” Orin lives out numerous life lessons gained during his active service. He explains, “I try to be a good person and always try to look out for others,” he says. “That’s one of the first things you learn in basic [training] - to look out for your battle buddy. And I think with the way things are in the world right now, we should

+ Mission 22 – Mission22.com + The Til Valhalla Project – TilValhallaProject.com + The USO - USO.org + Wounded Warrior Project – WoundedWarriorProject.org + ForcesUnited – ForcesUnited.org

all be doing a little bit more of that.”

CityLifestyle.com/Evans

Interior Designs

TO BE THANKFUL FOR DESIGNER FABRICS | PILLOWS | SHADES BEDDING | CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

3855 Washington Rd. Augusta, GA 30907 | (706) 855-5070 www.decoratorsoutlet.com 22

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

IMPROVE YOUR PROPERTY VALUE Install a new fence in your backyard.

We offer residential and commercial services for all your fencing needs!

(706) 699-6571 | LiveWireExteriors.com

CALL NOW FOR A FREE QUOTE

706-413-2304 Social Distancing

Betty Kendra CLU®,ChFC® Bob Kendra LUTCF, CLTC Kendra Financial Group LLC

4210 Columbia Road, Suite 4B, Martinez, GA 30907 www.kendrafinancialgroup.com Tel: 706.364.1477 Fax: 706.364.1478

Life Insurance, Retirement Planning, Investments and Long Term Care Insurance Bob Kendra and Betty Kendra, Registered Representatives offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Licensed Insurance Agency and a New York Life Company, 6055 Lakeside Commons Drive, Ste 300, Macon, GA 31210. 478.477.3222. Bob Kendra and Betty Kendra are agents licensed to sell insurance through New York Life Insurance Company and may be licensed to sell insurance through various other independent unaffiliated insurance companies Kendra Financial Group, LLC is independently owned and operated from NYLIFE Securities LLC and its affiliates

• Dryer Vent Cleaning • Repair • Alterations • Installation

PRACTICED HERE!

Vents will be serviced from outside of homes for the safety of our customers and staff.

$10 OFF

ANY SERVICE! Coupon Valid for Services provided by Dryer Vent Wizard. Not to be combined with any other offer! Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

Please accept this gift from our

Veteran Owned Company

CSRADryerVent.com CityLifestyle.com/Evans

LOCALLY OWNED

HOMEMADE HERO MEET FRANK STRAUSSER, OWNER OF PROPS AND HEROES AND BRINGER OF SMILES, JOY, AND STRENGTH

ARTICLE AARON HAYES PHOTOGRAPHY SANJEEV SINGHAL

FICTION, IN ITS OWN WAY, CAN BE TRANSFORMATIVE. Through

of online forums, he began creating his own costumes and props. He

the lives of characters on a page or a screen, we are able to find parts

quickly discovered the wide online market for his work, and his cos-

of ourselves within the characters’ worlds. Stories can change us,

tume business took off, right out of his parents’ laundry room. “I ended

rearrange our thinking, and help us to find ourselves in ways that we

up making a $1000 return in just a couple of weeks,” Frank explains. His

could never have imagined. Frank Strausser, an Augusta native and

grandmother helped him hone his craft, teaching him to sew his own

lover of fiction, combined his passion for beloved characters and his

material; that was nearly 12 years ago now.

creative intellect to create a business that brings fiction to life: Props and Heroes, a company specializing in creating custom costumes.

Frank makes all of his costumes from materials that he personally selects. Everything is hand drawn, painted, and researched to

Frank and his business, just like any comic book character, had

be as accurate as possible. Frank is wholly dedicated to his craft,

humble beginnings in his childhood home when he was 15. He was

even using Hollywood-grade materials and standards to ensure

disheartened by the Halloween costumes for sale in stores. “The qual-

the costumes are as accurate and high-quality as possible. Frank

ity of normal costumes was just … not great,” he says. So, with the help

also likes to help customers make costumes for themselves.

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

While he does enjoy the business side of things, Frank is also heavily involved with his community and uses his costumes to visit children’s hospitals, raising money for several charity organizations - all for no compensation whatsoever. “Money is great. It’s a power tool, but that’s never been my drive. We absolutely love making kids smile. It’s the best feeling in the world. As cliché as it is, we want to bring smiles to people.” Frank’s relationship with his charity work comes from his lifelong struggle with muscular dystrophy, which enables him to relate deeply to those he helps with his costumes. “I always knew that I was physically weaker than the other kids,” he explains, “but I didn’t know why until I was 10.” Frank went through years of physical therapy and was in and out of hospitals with his struggles with muscular dystrophy and asthma. “One of my favorite characters when I was a kid was Spider Man, and that’s still kind of true. For Halloween, I would dress up as him because for that little bit, I was Spider Man…I wasn’t weak Frank; I was strong Spiderman.”

CONTINUED >

"WE ABSOLUTELY LOVE MAKING KIDS SMILE. IT’S THE BEST FEELING IN THE WORLD. AS CLICHÉ AS IT IS, WE WANT TO BRING SMILES TO PEOPLE.” CityLifestyle.com/Evans

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

With the help of his supportive parents and the strength of characters he grew up admiring, Frank hopes that his business will not only teach others the craft of making costumes, but that they will also find hope and strength within the fictional characters that they love. “We always hear, years later, that the kids are still talking about our visits. They’ve recovered, and they’re still so ecstatic about it.” “Heroes in general are very important to us. They mean that it’s going to get better. In the comics, superheroes have as many problems as ordinary people do, and you can still look to them. It’s the same thing here. We get to put on a suit and be a superhero for these kids. There’s just no better feeling.” To contact Frank Strausser of Props and Heroes, call 706564-6960, email PropsAndHeroes@gmail.com, or visit PropsAndHeroes.com.

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

Private Teaching Experience

Accepting Students for 2020 -2021 Available Lesson Slots:

Tuesday - Friday 3:00pm - 6:30pm Tues/Wed/Thursdays 9:30am - 1:30pm

Amy Phillips 706.437.0697 AmyPhillipsPiano@gmail.com CityLifestyle.com/Evans

Memory Care and Transitional Assisted Living Our Person-Centered Care approach connects your loved one with a specially-trained Memory Care team, while our Active Living Program engages all the senses to promote positive well-being! Ask about our move-in specials! Schedule your tour today:

(706) 713-5284

urce taâ€™s So Augus ard stom Y For Cu ngs Greeti

M ARSHALL P INES A S S I STE D LIVI N G & M E M O RY CAR E

Mentio

n this Ad for $ 1 0 OFF your o rder

706-431-5296 | LawnLetters.com | info@LawnLetters.com | 28

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

B /AugustaLawnLetters

FAITH REFLECTIONS

WALKING THE WALK

A JOURNEY DOWN THE WINDING LIFE PATH OF UNASSUMING SPIRITUAL LEADER FRANCIS CHAN

FROM THE PULPIT OF A THRIVING MEGACHURCH OF MORE THAN 5,000 MEMBERS AND GROWING, TO A HOME IN THE POOREST REGION OF HONG KONG. From authoring a New York Times bestseller, to being surrounded by people struggling to make it by on just 50 cents a day. For most, it probably sounds like a tale of riches to rags; an unfortunate result of someone falling upon hard times. But for Francis Chan, it’s exactly what his soul needed—an opportunity to fulfill his God-given purpose of becoming a man who can truly say he practices what he preaches. And it was all by his own choice (with maybe a little guidance from above). Francis, born in San Francisco, was raised in a traditional Chinese home and navigated a challenging upbringing. His mother died during childbirth. His father remarried, then his stepmother died in a car accident when he was 8. His father remarried again, then, when Francis was 12, died of cancer. Francis was around 14 when he was introduced to a youth group by a friend. “I fell in love with Jesus,” he says, explaining that it was

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

then he decided if there really was a Heaven and Hell, it didn’t make sense to spend his life doing anything other than telling people about Him. Twenty-six and newly married, Francis and his wife Lisa founded Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley, California in the early 90s, beginning with 30 people. Within the first two months, the church grew to 100. In 2000, the church grew even more, to 1,600. By 2008, Cornerstone Community Church was one of the largest in Ventura County and Francis’ new book “Crazy Love” was a New York Times bestseller. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Evans

FAITH REFLECTIONS (CONTINUED)

Watch the full interview @ CityLifestyle.com! Then, in 2010, Francis decided to leave it all. But, he wasn’t leaving God. He was separating himself from the megachurch that had started in his living room as he and other elders began to question its direction. “Was this really what the Church is meant to be? Is this all God had in mind when he created His Church in the first place?” Francis questions in his second book Letters to the Church. “We began to wonder if our definition of a church actually fit God’s definition.” “Everything had grown to be very dependent upon one person,” he continues. “The Bible tells us that every member of the body has a gift that is necessary to the functioning of the church. When I looked at what went on in Cornerstone, I saw me and a few other people using our gifts, while thousands just came and sat in the sanctuary for an hour and a half and then went home.” After leaving Cornerstone, Francis wrestled with what the next step was. He and Lisa ended up selling their Simi Valley house and moving their family of six at the time overseas to India, Thailand and China. And the $1 million his bestselling book made in the first year, plus the money it continues to make? Francis signed it all over to a charitable gift fund helping the poor and victims of human trafficking. “We witnessed the simplicity of the lifestyles in rural Thailand, and the joy of the men and women who served widows and orphans day in and day out” “You meet these believers that just blow your mind. It’s everything the Bible talks about,” Francis says, inspired by those he’s met throughout his travels. “Some of the

It was after that Francis believes he was called back to the

godliest people, the most committed...people that I

States, and the Chan family ended up back in San Francisco.

admire and aspire to become like. If I can get past my

This time, much like the beginning of Cornerstone, Francis

own hunger for comfort and enjoyment and really sac-

and Lisa once again felt a calling to plant a church.

rifice like I’ve seen some of these people do, I know I’ll have even more fulfillment in life.”

What started this time was We Are Church—an organization passionately pursuing what God wants in a church, done through

“People tha t I ’ve f ou nd that have spent t h ei r l i ves tr uly loving o t h er s a r e t h e jo yf u l peopl e.” 30

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

values and practices like devotion to scripture,

committing

churches of 10-20 people meeting in a home, and calling everyone to share the gospel and make disciples.

“Som et im e s you sh ed som e t h i ngs an d you re alize i t ’s a c t u a l l y bet t er ; s om e o f t he th i ng s w e t h ou gh t w ou ld brin g us in t o t h e p r esenc e of G od actually now di st r a c t u s.” Francis’ extensive time overseas has shown him a contrast

In the throes of a pandemic, quarrels over U.S. politics, a

between the American church and the spirituality and Godly

growing divide among people and beliefs, and the unsurety of

lives of others across the world, and now struggles with see-

life, Francis’ vision of where the concept of church is heading—a

ing the division in the church, due in large part to growing

non-prophetic guess, he clarifies, laughing—can be summed up

issues of individualism and pride.

through a story of his daughter Rachel, when she was 5 years old.

“Try to look at the church in America from an outsider’s

“We regularly visited this rundown place in our city called

perspective, Francis challenges. “Is that really where you

Paint Pals,” he laughs, reminiscently. “There was this old maze

would look for answers— knowing the divisiveness; know-

you walked through with only a few walls, some little ceramic

ing all the scandals; knowing everything you know about it?

things you could paint and this big bubble machine that was

The church is in a really poor state and it in some ways feels

just a hula hoop dipped in bubble solution.”

like it’s getting worse.” “I wish we could learn and see the sacrifice of others,” he continues. “Overseas they’re just obsessed with each other.” Francis, pretending to hold up a phone facing himself, goes on to describe how he sees this generation as a generation all about taking selfies; noting that you could be in the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls and you’re always in the picture—always the center of everything.

“One day I was just like, ‘Honey, this week I’m going to take you to Disneyland!’ And she was like, ‘What’s that?’” he says. “I go, ‘You have no clue. This is like the happiest place on Earth. You’re gonna go nuts!’” Francis says Rachel began to get very sad, asking if they could just go to Paint Pals. “She’s working herself into tears,” he laughs. “Like, you’re crying because I’m about to take you to Disneyland.”

“All we really need to do is hit that little button that switches

“I feel like we’re just like Rachel when she was 5,” he says,

it off selfie mode,” he says. “And now I can’t even see myself. All

fondly recalling the Paint Pals days. “We’re accustomed to

I see is God and those around me. People that I’ve found that

certain things and God has something so much better for us. I

have spent their lives truly loving others are the joyful people.”

believe he’s leading us all into a deeper intimacy with Him that

Much like separation from his megachurch setting,

is just off the charts. Sometimes you shed some things and you

preaching in front of thousands, and the continued growth

realize it’s actually better; some of the things we thought would

of We Are Church exudes, Francis continues to spread the

bring us into the presence of God actually now distract us.”

belief that people are the church.

Nearly six months ago, Francis’ path led him to the Sham

“It’s not about going to a place and needing a critical mass

Shui Po area on the Kowloon side of Hong Kong with most

of 8 people or 1,000 people or this or that; it’s the person of

of his family, including his wife, all but one of his daughters,

Christ and enjoying that,” he says. “I really believe the Lord

two sons-in-law and two grandchildren. It’s a place where he

wants us during this time to go back to the scriptures, rethink

later found is where his mother also did ministries in the 1950s,

‘What did he really want the church to be?’ Believers have

and allows him the continued humbling opportunity to live out

been scattered since the beginning of the church. People

his journey through the Gospel, working with the ultra poor

were alone, people were in little groups and found each other

to bring relief, sharing the word of God and, you guessed it,

and enjoyed Christ together.”

planting churches.

CityLifestyle.com/Evans

OCT 31

NOVEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

HEROES FOR HOPE 5K RUN/WALK

Savannah Rapids Pavilion, 3300 Evans To Locks Road

Join Child Enrichment's Heroes For Hope 5k Run/Walk on October 31st. This will be a fun, family friendly event

where adults and kids are encour-

aged to dress up in their favorite superhero costume and participate

in the 5k run, 5k walk, or the Fun Run for kids ages 10 and under. Call 706737-4631 or visit VisitAugusta.com/

Event/Heroes-For-Hope-5k-RunWalk/16841/ for more info.

2, 9, 16, 23, 30 MOVE IT MONDAYS

Visit ExperienceColumbiaCounty.com/

Move-Membership for weekly locations.

Get moving at the beginning of each

SERVICES Precision Cut Window Tinting Lift Kits Leveling Kits Wheel & Tire Packages Bed Liners

week! From 9am to 10am, join us at one of Columbia County's many parks for an hour of walking and networking. Each Monday starts with a stretch and finishes with a brisk walk.

6, 13, 20 RECTEQ MOVIE NIGHT

Recteq, 4301 Evans to Locks Road

Family Night. Date Night. Friday Night. We have you covered with Movie Night! Mark your calendars and join us at the recteq™

Detailing

headquarters for the perfect way

and MORE

trucks, movies for all ages, the list

to kickstart your weekend! Food goes on! Did we mention you can bring your own coolers? For more details and the show schedule,

(706) 855-8768

AllAboutTrucksLLC.com 640 South Old Belair Road

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

visit MovieNight.Recteq.com CONTINUED >

enjoy a complimentary glass of wine during your spa visit 620 Ponder Place Drive Evans, GA 30809

706-993-6404

Facials · Massage · Waxing · Wellness

ROCKY BRANCH G O L F

C O U R S E

A Short 20 Minute Drive from Evans At Rocky Branch Golf Course you will enjoy the pace of play, the strategic layout, a friendly staff, and a spectacular clubhouse. On the front nine, you'll find friendlier fairways. Make the turn to the back nine and you'll see more trees that define the holes, making the fairways tighter, and the holes harder. The creek that goes through Rocky Branch invites you to hit over it five different times.

For additional information please contact Al Holloway:

706-359-4303 4711 Double Branches Road, Lincolnton, Georgia 30817 rockybranchgolf.com

Allgood Comprehensive Dentistry believes good oral health is important to overall health, wellness and self-esteem. Good Allgood Comprehensive Dentistry believes good oral health is important oral health means less pain, better breath, better sleep, a to overall health, wellness and self-esteem. Good oral health means pain, better breath,so better sleep, more. a smile toThat’s be proudwhy of, smile to beless proud of, and much we offer and so much more. That’s why we offer everything from everything from preventative cleanings and tooth repairs to preventative cleanings and tooth repairs to TMJ treatments TMJ treatments and aesthetic and aesthetic treatments. treatments. i m p l a n t d e n t i s t ry single visit crowns Comprehensive Dentistry

c o s m e t i c d e n t i s t ry

AugustaSmiles.com

491 Furys Ferry Road, Martinez, GA 706.863.3290

AugustaSmiles.com

491 Furys Ferry Road, Martinez, GA » 706.863.3290 CityLifestyle.com/Evans

7, 14, 21, 28

NOVEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

EVANS MARKET DRIVE THROUGH Evans Towne Center Park

Visit

the

online

Evans

Market

Store to shop each Wednesday through

Friday,

then

head

over to Evans Towne Center Park

on Saturday morning between 10am and 12pm for drive through pick-up! Get the freshest produce, meat, and more while shopping local.

26 THANKSGIVING DAY

We hope today is filled with family and friends, excellent food, and

moments that fill your heart with gratitude for the little things, the big blessings, and everything in

between. Happy Thanksgiving from the Evans Lifestyle team.

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ Evans using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think. 34

Evans Lifestyle | November 2020

W E G O B E YO N D THE QUOTE

TO TAKE CARE OF WHAT YOU CARE ABOUT MOST Watson & Knox takes pride in offering complete & comprehensive insurance reviews to our clients. We offer full service insurance for both personal & commercial lines. We have access to multiple carriers, including high value markets for affluent clients. Price is important, but proper coverage & peace of mind are key.

Caring & Committed Advisors with a Sensible Approach to Protecting Your Life’s Assets

HIGH VALUE HOMEOWNERS

AUTO

BOAT/RV

VALUABLE PROPERTY

UMBRELLA LIABILITY

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

FAMILY-OWNED SINCE 1929

COMMERCIAL GENERAL LIABILITY

WORKERS COMPENSATION

INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENCY

(706) 595-4951 | WATSONANDKNOX.COM | 139 MAIN ST, THOMSON, GA

Custom Excursions and Tours

We Are Focused on YOU™

Recreation and Special Events

Wedding, Corporate and Event Transportation Services

Augusta, Georgia 888.831.3624 focidestination.com

CityLifestyle.com/Evans