Evans, GA May 2023

Happy Mother's Day, Evans!

Welcome to our Women's Issue! This month we are featuring the amazing women in our community!

The moms in our community truly are heroes! In honor of that, our Hometown Heroes this month are moms that YOU nominated! We asked our readers to nominate deserving mothers and after careful consideration, we chose Naomi Williams, Michelle Tordoff, Kelley Pope, and Anna Ramsey. Learn about these amazing moms on page 14.

Are you ready for summer? It’s almost here! Make sure your summer wardrobe is ready with help from the experts at The Peppy Poppy. They shared with us bright colors trending outfits to stand out.

Doctors Hospital of Augusta has provided excellent care to women, mothers, and babies for fifty years. Learn about the Women’s Services staff, history, and more in our article, Doctors Hospital Women’s Services.

I hope you enjoy reading our May issue. See you around town!

JANA MORRIS, PUBLISHER @EVANS.LIFESTYLE

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Jana Morris | jana.morris@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Bailey Hall | bailey.hall@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Daniel Morris

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Collin Beasley | collin.beasley@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Stephanie Lewis | stephanie.lewis@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Bailey Hall, Michelle W. Parnell

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bailey Hall, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @evans.lifestyle

1: Brayden Bodine and Liam Whigham at the Patriot’s Park Easter Egg Hunt. 2: Lincoln Wandless 3: Riley, Brooke, Scott, and Lincoln Wandless at the Patriot’s Park Easter Egg Hunt. 4: Carrie Rollins, Mitchell Cozart, Paul Phillips, Barbara Coxwell, Brigitte Cozart, and Mitch Cozart at the National Wild Turkey Federation Banquet. 5: Jason and Jennifer Norman at the National Wild Turkey Federation Banquet. 6: Lincoln Wandless 7: Ashley and Asa Coxwell at the National Wild Turkey Federation Banquet.

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Merry Maids of Augusta Wins Founders Award

Congratulations to Kim and Ed Brown, owners of Merry Maids of Augusta, on winning the Founders Award! This award is based on business excellence and the Merry Maids have always gone above and beyond for their clients.

Sharkey's Cuts for Kids Opening Soon

Sharkey's Cuts for Kids is a locally owned salon designed for kids between the ages of 0-14. Children can sit in a Dodge Police Cruiser, Barbie Jeep, Frozen Jeep, Lightning McQueen Race Car, and so much more all while watching their favorite cartoons or Netflix! The older kids will love the chance to play Xbox One on 40" screens while getting their haircut! Sharkey's Cuts for Kids will open later this month and is located at 4115 Columbia Road, Suite 1.

We Want To Know Your Favorite Nonprofit Organization

Do you know a nonprofit organization that has truly gone above and beyond with a serving heart? We’d like to meet them! Every month we feature four nonprofits or people in our Hometown Heroes to say thank you for everything they do. If you know someone who deserves that recognition, please send an email to bailey.hall@citylifestyle.com.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Evans

Hometown Heroes

In honor of Mother's Day, we are highlighting four super moms

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BAILEY HALL

For Mother’s Day this year, we wanted to do something special for the moms in our community. Instead of our Hometown Heroes, we asked members of the community to nominate a mom who has gone above and beyond for their children. So many great nominations were sent to us and after reading the amazing stories, we chose four moms to be pampered and celebrated. We sent these moms to Primp and Blow where they were treated with hair and makeup services. They were also given gifts from other local businesses such as The Red Berry Co., Nothing Bundt Cake, Belair Donuts, Top Golf, and TBonz Steakhouse.

Naomi Williams

Mom to Noah

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR NEW MOMS?

Remember that your first name isn’t mom! Meaning, don’t lose yourself while fulfilling your role as a mother.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE GIFT OR CRAFT YOU’VE RECEIVED FROM NOAH?

Handmade cards and paintings made by my son are my favorite gifts. He requires help with everyday tasks, so it meant his caregiver(s) were intentional in being and working with him.

WHAT’S THE MOST REWARDING THING ABOUT BEING A MOM?

Experiencing pure, unadulterated, unconditional love, creating adventures while expecting the unexpected, and learning how to do the hard things while finding joy through the journey.

Michelle Tordoff

Homeschool mom to Cindy, John Russell, Nicholas, Timothy, Praise, Michael, Emily, and Christopher and grandma to eight children

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR NEW MOMS?

Relax and love all the time you have with your people. Enjoy every moment because before you know it, those hard and wonderful days are all behind you. The days may be long, but the years go oh so quickly.

HAVE YOU NOTICED ANY SIMILARITIES YOU SHARE WITH YOUR KIDS?

They all seem to be adventurous, love to learn, and are active.

HOW HAVE YOUR KIDS MADE YOU PROUD?

I’m proud when they finish their home school years and they find careers to support their families, but I’m even more proud of their character. They are generous, great to each other, good friends to others, and show love and kindness to so many.

Anna Ramsey, Kindergarten Teacher

Mom to three year old Brody

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE GIFT OR CRAFT YOU’VE RECEIVED FROM BRODY?

Christmas ornaments are my favorite! Last year we got one from our church of Brody looking like an angel. It was the sweetest! I also have a handprint calendar for this year that is super cute and special!

TELL ME A FUN MEMORY ABOUT A FAVORITE ACTIVITY YOU DID WITH BRODY.

We love to do all sorts of things with friends, especially in the summer when I’m off. The library, park, splash pads, and storytimes are some of our favorites. I love making sensory bins with colored rice and fun things based on whatever season or holiday it is.

HAVE YOU NOTICED ANY SIMILARITIES YOU SHARE WITH BRODY?

We share a love of music and baseball. You can always find Brody singing or dancing and I’m always singing too.

Kelley Pope

Adoptive and biological mom to Grayson, Eli, Brooklyn, Kendyl, and Emerson

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO ADOPT?

In high school and college I went on several international church mission trips. As I worked at an orphanage in China, I knew the Lord was calling me to adopt one day. Years later after having three biological children, we finally found our Kendyl.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE GIFT OR CRAFT YOU’VE RECEIVED FROM YOUR KIDS?

I’ll never forget when my oldest son made a chef hat for me for the ‘Muffins with Moms’ event at the preschool. He was so proud of it as he placed special photos of us along with things he loved, like a toy car and airplane. I wore it with pride!

WHAT’S THE MOST REWARDING THING ABOUT BEING A MOM?

It’s the honor of a lifetime to leave a legacy with the next generation. I truly believe our kids will be the generation that changes the world for the better. Seeing our kids grow into next generation leaders is the most rewarding thing!

Trending Summer Looks

THE PEPPY POPPY HAS YOU COVERED FROM HEAD TO TOE FOR YOUR SUMMER WARDROBE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BAILEY HALL

Get your summer wardrobe ready with The Peppy Poppy as they share three trending outfits! The bright colors and fun accessories will stand out and are so much fun to style! Each outfit was styled by the ladies at The Peppy Poppy and are available at their boutique.

The ladies at The Peppy Poppy would love to help you find and style your next outfit! Stop in to shop and say hello at either of their locations. Stay up to date on new arrivals by following them on Facebook and Instagram. The Evans location is at 4272 Washington Road #2 and the Grovetown location is at 4972 Steiner Way.

| PRETTY IN PINK Pink Blouse White Shorts Yellow Margarita Earrings Champagne Sandals

| POP OF BLUE Blue Blouse White Skinny Jeans Stackable Bracelets

Rhinestone Earrings Sandals

| BRIGHT WHITE White Dress

Multicolored Purse Gold Stackable Bracelets

Gold Earrings Woven Sandals

DOCTORS HOSPITAL WOMEN'S SERVICES

“We are excited to celebrate our 50th anniversary this year here at Doctors Hospital,” shares Carman Berendsen, Director of Women’s Services & Maternal Fetal Medicine. “The first baby born here was in November of 1973 and in 1999, the women's service line was dedicated after one of our founding physicians, Dr. Clyde A. Burgamy.”

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BAILEY HALL

Women’s Services provides a variety of maternal support including labor, delivery, and Mother/Baby care for both mom and baby. “We are proud to do couplet care, where mother and baby share a room and are cared for by a mother-baby nurse. We are also a Level II NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) and have a maternal fetal medicine clinic that serves our high-risk population,”

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF PROVIDING EXCEPTIONAL CARE FOR WOMEN, MOTHERS, AND BABIES

explains Carman. “Our baby's room is with mom 24/7. So, the mom and support person are involved in all care provided. Additionally, we have opened up our visitation policy and are welcoming families back to be a part of this special occasion.”

High quality care stems from an educated, experienced, and compassionate medical staff. “We have an amazing team of nurses whose experience ranges from less than one year to forty-plus years,” says Carman. “Our lactation team includes those who are IBCLCs (International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants) as well as Certified Lactation Counselors. We are also a milk depot for Mother's Milk Bank of Colorado, providing human donor milk to hospitals across the nation.”

In addition to providing care for women from all over the CSRA, Doctors Hospital serves as the delivering hospital for Eisenhower Army Medical Center. “We are honored to serve a population that has dedicated their lives to serving our country,” she adds.

As one of the first Baby-Friendly designated hospitals in the state of Georgia, and the only one in this area, the medical staff strives to educate patients to make informed choices about infant care. In-person classes, which are free to the community, include infant care/CPR, childbirth preparation, and breastfeeding. A special safe sitter class will also be offered this summer to provide individuals with life and safety skills for babysitting and watching younger siblings.

Women’s Services also offers diagnostic breast and bone imaging and robotic surgeries for some gynecological procedures. “There have been many advancements with robotic surgeries over the years,” says Carman. “It's a less invasive procedure, which decreases the patient's recovery time as well as it makes it easier for the patient to recover.”

The best way to preview Women’s Services is to stop by for a visit. “I would like to personally invite any moms who are currently pregnant or thinking about having a baby to come take a tour at our facility,” shares Carman, “and see in person what all we offer.”

Doctors Hospital is located at 3651 Wheeler Road in Augusta. To sign up for a tour or for one of the classes offered, visit doctors-hospital.net . You can also reach the Women’s Center by calling 706-651-3232.

“Our lactation team includes those who are IBCLCs (International BoardCertified Lactation Consultants) as well as Certified Lactation Counselors. We are also a milk depot for Mother’s Milk Bank of Colorado, providing human donor milk to hospitals across the nation.”

COOKING WITH FRESH HERBS

Using these fresh herbs is fun and tasty

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

GARLIC HERB BUTTER

This butter is versatile and goes with just about anything. You can use this on top of bread, popcorn, veggies, as a sandwich spread and more.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

• 4 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon herb of your choice (dill, basil or oregano are my go-to herbs.)

• 1 clove garlic, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• cracked pepper to taste

PROCESS

Add all ingredients in a food processor (or mix by hand in a bowl). Transfer butter mixture on parchment paper or plastic wrap. Cover butter tightly and roll into a log. Place in refrigerator until firm. Enjoy!

HERBED POPCORN

Add a little kick to your traditional popcorn by incorporating herbs in with the butter. You won’t be disappointed with this buttery and savory combination.

INGREDIENTS

• 3 tablespoons coconut oil (or olive oil if you prefer)

• 3/4 cup popcorn kernels

• 5 tablespoons butter, melted

• 2 teaspoons garlic salt

• 2 teaspoons parsley (dried)

• 1 teaspoon thyme

PROCESS

Add oil to the bottom of a pot and melt over medium heat. Add popcorn kernels and place lid on top of the pot and heat over medium heat until kernels are popped, shaking pan occasionally. Melt butter in a separate dish and add seasonings. Pour on top, and enjoy!

Herb salts are becoming so popular and can add flavor to a variety of dishes. There are endless flavor combinations, and these salts are so handy to have as a staple in the kitchen. Plus, these make great gifts for family and friends. All you need is a blender or food processor and minimal ingredients.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup salt of your choice (I prefer Himalayan pink salt, but any salt will do)

• 1/4- 1/2 cup parsley (add more if using fresh herbs)

• 2 Tablespoons dried basil (or 1/4 cup if using fresh)

• 1 tablespoon oregano

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1 garlic clove minced

• Optional: Any additional herbs you prefer

PROCESS

Add fresh parsley, garlic, lemon zest and a little bit of salt to the blender or food processor. Mix for 10 seconds. Add additional ingredients and blend again. Line the baking sheet with parchment paper and pour salt mixture on sheet and evening spread. Set in a cool oven overnight to dry. Pour salt into a container of choice and enjoy!

CHIMICHURRI

Chimichurri is a condiment that can be used on endless things, and can be enjoyed as a sauce or dip. Serve over fish, chicken, vegetables or with crackers.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup olive oil (or flax oil for added omega 3 nutrition)

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or lemon juice as an alternative)

• 1/2 cup-1 cup fresh parsley, chopped finely

• 1/4 cup fresh basil or fresh cilantro

• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small red chilies or 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or italian seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt

• pepper to taste

PROCESS

Chop fresh herbs finely and add to a bowl. Add remaining ingredients and mix. Chill for 1-2 hours.  Enjoy!

Make an Impact for Mom

Memorable ways to celebrate the mother figure in your life

The moms and the mother figures in our lives mean everything to us. They deserve the best every day, of course. But at least one day out of the year, we get to shower them with the same love and thoughtfulness they give to us so selflessly.

This year, we hope you’ll consider some memorable ways to make lasting memories with the mom or mother figure in your life. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Mom feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your mom, wife, sister or maternal figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Take a Flower Arranging Class Mother’s Day arrives just as spring is in full bloom. Take advantage of the season by going to a flower arranging class with mom.

Play a Family Board Game

If Mom likes strategizing, challenge her to a friendly board game competition. (And, no, you don’t have to let her win just because it’s Mother’s Day.)

Pick Your Own Fruit

This activity is especially fun if you have a lot of kids who want to get in on the action. Then, when you all get home, you can whip up a treat for Mom with your selections. (Maybe give her a strawberry in a Champagne glass while she waits.)

Book Her a Weekend Away

There’s no day like Mother’s Day to be impulsive! Book a weekend trip for the two of you at a cute B&B in a city Mom has always wanted to visit.

Complete a Jigsaw Puzzle

Find a puzzle with an image you know your mom will love (or make a custom one using a photo of the two of you) and put it together over wine and snacks. You’ll be amazed at how much chatting you can get done while puzzling.

Get Theater Tickets

Go to a play or a musical — lots of towns even host outdoor theater events.

Invite Her To High Tea

Whether you make the brews and treats yourself or head out to an official tea house, Mom will love sipping her beverage out of fancy china and snacking on tea sandwiches.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

Augusta Princesses at the Park

COLUMBIA COUNTY AMPHITHEATER

Join your fairytale friends for the most magical showcase of the year! Enjoy a full hour of entertainment and fun at the park - featuring your favorite princesses! 10+ princesses will be in attendance to make your dreams come true! Guests are welcome to attend free of charge. It is suggested to bring a blanket, pack some snacks, and settle in for a full hour of princess performances! Dances, songs, stories, and more are in store for all guests in attendance. RSVP for free by visiting Eventbrite and searching Augusta Princesses at the Park.

Spring Holistic Market

THE SOLFOOD KITCHEN

The Solfood Kitchen and 2 Wolves Herbal Apothecary invite you to the Spring Holistic Market on May 7th from 11am to 3pm. The market will be at the Upper Level Surrey Center and inside The Solfood Kitchen.

Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all of the amazing moms in our community!

Movies at the Miller: Finding Nemo

MILLER THEATER

Bring the family for a free showing of Finding Nemo at the Miller Theater on May 21st. Admission to the movie is free for all ages, but a ticket is needed for entry. Tickets can be reserved online at millertheaeraugusta.com, in person at the box office, or by calling the box office at 706-842-4080.

2nd Annual KROC to LOCK Ride

1833 BROAD ST

Celebrate National Bike Month with your family and friends at the Kroc to Lock bike ride! The approximately 10 mile ride will start at Kroc Augusta, proceed up the Augusta Canal Towpath to the Headgates and then head back to the green space at the Kroc for a post-ride picnic. For more information and tickets, please visit bikesignup.com and search Kroc to Lock.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Evans