Letter from the Publisher
Welcome to our July Explore issue, where we celebrate the joy and excitement of summer! This month, we're diving into the heart of our vibrant community and uncovering some of the best ways to enjoy the season.
First up, we're thrilled to introduce you to Dink'd Pickleball, a brand new indoor pickleball court that's perfect for both beginners and seasoned players. Whether you're looking to stay active or try something new, Dink'd offers a fun and engaging way to spend your summer days.
For those looking to unwind with a good book, we've curated a summer reading list that highlights works by local authors and writers from Georgia. There's nothing quite like losing yourself in a great story, and these selections are sure to keep you entertained all summer long.
And to help you beat the heat, we've included a refreshing recipe for healthy fruit pops. These cool treats are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them the perfect snack for hot summer days.
We hope this issue inspires you to explore and enjoy all that our community has to offer. Here's to a summer filled with fun, discovery, and unforgettable moments!
JANA MORRIS, PUBLISHER @EVANS.LIFESTYLE
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Jana Morris | jana.morris@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Bailey Hall | bailey.hall@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Michelle Parnell | michelle.parnell@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Daniel Morris
INTERN
Daria Terry
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bailey Hall, Daria Terry
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Megan Arrington
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Premier General Contractors Since 1986
Beyond providing quality workmanship and comprehensive design/build services, we strive to build a relationship of mutual trust and confidence with each of our clients’ large and small. We accomplish this by putting your priorities first and conducting ourselves with integrity in every aspect of our business.
business monthly
Birthday Donations from Kollins and Bailee
We would like to say a big THANK YOU to Kollins and Bailee for collecting donations for their birthday for all the kittens and puppies at the Columbia County Animal Shelter!
All About Trucks & Autos Celebrates Twenty Years In Business
Happy 20th Anniversary to All About Trucks & Autos! "We are so grateful for the support that the community has shown us over the past 20 years! Our customers are truly amazing and we are looking forward to continuing to serve them and giving them their dream rides," says Daniel Morris, Owner. The Evans City Lifestyle team wishes you many more years of success!
Five Oaks Farm by Defoor Realty
Beautiful lots of land at Five Oaks Farm are now available! These gorgeous homesites range from 5 to 46.2 acres, featuring open pastures and an upland pine forest. The properties are minutes away from Clarks Hill Lake and Mistletoe State Park and about 8 miles away from I-20. For more information about Five Oaks Farm, visit www.defoorrealty.com
Travel through Georgia:
HERE’RE A FEW BOOKS, WRITTEN BY GEORGIA AUTHORS, TO LIVEN UP YOUR SUMMER READING LIST
ARTICLE BY DARIA TERRY
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
GONE WITH THE WINDMARGARET MITCHELL
I believe we’ve all heard of Gone with the Wind before. It’s one of the great classics known for its romantic drama, memorable characters, and controversial portrayal of the American Civil War and Reconstruction era. The author, Margaret Mitchell, was born, lived, and passed in Atlanta, Georgia, and Gone with the Wind primarily takes place in Clayton County, Georgia. Summer is the perfect time to dive into this lengthy book! Depending on which edition you read, with almost 1000 pages, use those longer daylight hours to leisurely break through and completely immerse yourself in this novel. The story follows Scarlett O'Hara, a headstrong daughter of a wealthy plantation owner in Georgia. She is vain and manipulative yet undeniably determined and resourceful, and her unrequited love for Ashley Wilkes and relationship with Rhett Butler drives the majority of the narrative. These characters will definitely keep you on your toes! There were a few moments where the story would slow, but if you hang in there, it will pick up and deliver some amazing moments and life-changing lines! Plus, Mitchell writes with such a poetic prose, apparent with descriptive language that paints the setting, emotions, and characters for the reader.
TIME AND TIDELENALEE N. ROBINSON
Time and Tide was written by Lenalee N. Robinson, an Augusta and Thomson, Georgia-native. The novel follows Lucy Nash who travels back in time to the year 1975! Along with her newfound friend, Cameron, they both investigate the suspicious disappearance of children in Langston, Georgia, a fictional town based on the familiarities of the town Robinson grew up in.
This is a great read to take on this summer for teens and adults! The way time travel is written is amazingly plausible and makes it easier to fully engage in the story and enjoy. The suspense is great, and make sure to hold on tight because the twist at the end will not only satisfy, but keep you thinking long after finishing the book. However, don’t worry, the end of this book is not the end! Pick up the next book in the series: The Best of Times by Lenalee N. Robinson and read on!
If you’d like to read another book by Bowen that touches even closer to home, Thorns in the Garden City (The Wars of Matt Tower) takes place in Augusta, Georgia after Tower has returned from England!
PALADIN: THE STORY OF AUGUSTA'S FIGHTER ACE (THE WARS OF MATT TOWER) -
BY CHARLES W. BOWEN
Charles W. Bowen has lived in Augusta, Georgia his entire life! So, check out this recommendation as well as the sequel that has been released: Thorns in the Garden City (The Wars of Matt Tower) by Charles W. Bowen. Paladin: The Story of Augusta's Fighter Ace (The Wars of Matt Tower) follows Matt Tower, a skilled and daring fighter pilot from Augusta, Georgia, who sets off for England in the 1940s. He’s caught between the distressing conflicts of Nazi-occupied Europe and his beginning romance with British Women’s Voluntary Service member, Vivian Davis. As you begin this book, finish, and move on to Bowen’s second, you become witness to the growth of Matt Tower from a young pilot to a seasoned war hero, and it is a great journey to witness! And, to touch on Bowen’s writing, his prose embraces this fast-paced nature which perfectly aligns with aerial combat and the chaotic nature of war. If you’re a fan of historical romance or would just like to read about a character familiar to home, you should check out this book! Moreover, if you’d like to read another book by Bowen that touches even closer to home, Thorns in the Garden City (The Wars of Matt Tower) takes place in Augusta, Georgia after Tower has returned from England!
Fresh Fruit Pops
BEAT THE GEORGIA HEAT WITH HEALTHY HOMEMADE FRUIT POPS
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Georgia’s summer heat can be brutal, but it doesn’t deter kids from playing outside. To keep them cool and refreshed, it’s important to find healthy alternatives to sugar-laden popsicles and ice cream. One such delicious and nutritious option is homemade fruit pops. Not only are they a healthier choice, but they are also easy to make, and kids can join in the fun of preparing them!
Ingredients
• Vanilla Greek yogurt
• Fresh fruit (extra points if picked locally)
• Popsicle molds and sticks
Directions
Combine the Ingredients: Mix your chosen fruit with the vanilla Greek yogurt.
Fill the Molds: Pour the mixture into the popsicle molds and insert the sticks.
Freeze: Place the molds in the freezer until the pops are solid.
Favorite Combinations:
Strawberries and Blueberries: A classic, refreshing mix.
Strawberry and Banana: A creamy, sweet blend.
Watermelon and Mint: A cool, invigorating duo.
Peaches and Cream: Simple and summery.
Pineapple and Mango: Tropical and tangy.
The possibilities are endless, so let your imagination (and taste buds) run wild! These fruit pops are not only a great way to cool down but also a fun and engaging activity for kids. Enjoy the summer with these delightful treats that are as enjoyable to make as they are to eat.
Dink'd Pickleball
DISCOVER THE FUN AND SOCIAL SPORT TAKING AUGUSTA OVER BY STORM
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
“It’s fun and social all at the same time, which is what makes it so great.”
— TROY AKERS
Summer in Augusta means people are exploring new activities and sports to enjoy, but the Georgia heat often doesn’t provide ideal conditions for high-intensity play. Because of that, Troy and Nancy Akers decided to open the CSRA’s first indoor pickleball court, Dink’d Pickleball. “Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the United States,” Troy shares. It’s a fastpaced game suitable for all skill levels. “It’s fun and social all at the same time, which is what makes it so great,” he continues.
“My wife and I have been looking for ways to bring new and exciting things to the area,” says Troy. In 2022, they opened Crumbl Cookies in Evans, and this summer, they introduced Dink’d Pickleball. “We have nine indoor courts and the nice thing about them is that they’re all professional outdoor surface courts,” he shares. Besides the professionally-made court floors, Dink’d Pickleball offers various amenities for its players. There’s a full kitchen with a chef-inspired menu and a bar. “Our executive chef has worked all over the country at different clubs,” Troy adds. There are also multiple entertainment areas, including
a mezzanine overlooking the courts and a private event room. Around the courts are soft seating areas where people can relax, watch their friends play, and enjoy food and drinks.
While designing the building, Troy and Clifton Construction worked together very closely to make sure Dink’d Pickleball would have everything needed to exceed expectations. “This project is like nothing else in our area and with pickleball growing so fast, it’s something we need. It’s an amazing idea, and we are honored to be able to bring it to fruition,” says Rob Clifton, CEO of Clifton Construction.
“We are locally owned, not a franchise. You don’t have to be a member to play; we’re open to everyone. We have a professional teaching staff, and the size of our courts allows us to host national tournaments, bringing in players from all over the country,” says Troy.
For more information about Dink’d Pickleball, visit dinkdpickleball.com or call 706-909-3303. They are located at 500 Furys Ferry Road. Stay up to date by following their Facebook page and Instagram at @dinkdpickleball.
PICKLEBALL PICKLEBALL PICKLEBALL PICKLEBALL PICKLEBALL PICKLEBALL PICKLEBALL PICKLEBALL PICKLEBALL PICKLEBALL
Photographyby:MeganArrington
AND FIND YOUR PEACE GET LOST
Exploring The Lost Pines Resort and Spa
Just on the outskirts of Austin, nestled on 400 acres of luscious and sprawling countryside, this fun-filled resort does not disappoint. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is a family-friendly destination that offers an array of activities for all ages to enjoy.
Guests are transported to a simpler time where both adults and kids can be seen casually riding bicycles around the property or strolling along the Colorado River that hugs the resort. Open areas with yard games, outdoor game tables, sports courts and a mini golf course invite families to engage in activities that allow for quality time spent enjoying the outdoors.
Choose between an adventurous getaway or a serene escape, as Lost Pines Resort and Spa has something for everyone. Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing, kayaking and more. Cool off poolside at one of the many pools, or float on the 1,000-foot lazy river. The expansive, 18-hole, 7,200 yard golf course designed by award-winning architect Arthur Hills, allows
golfers to enjoy the natural beauty of this championship course.
A Texas ranch-style resort wouldn’t be complete without animals. Visit the Lost Pines corral for daily meet and greets with longhorns, miniature ponies, miniature donkeys, goats, alpacas and pigs. Families can enjoy nightly movies on the outdoor movie screen. Scheduled kids activities are available day and evening throughout your stay. The expansive grounds allows guests to spend time exploring the activities on the property.
The resort offers a variety of dining experiences for the culinary enthusiast including six different on-site restaurants, each offering unique bites and beverages. Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at Stories, where all food is sourced from local purveyors. They also offer an expansive selection of wines, scotch, and mixed drinks. For a unique dining experience, visit the renowned, exclusive 10-seat omakase, Sushi By Scratch, with Chef Philip Frankland Lee. This menu-free establishment boasts a private and unexpected experience that is sure to please. Advanced reservations are required and encouraged as dining spots fill up quickly. For a more casual dining experience, visit one of the other four on-site restaurants including Maverick’s Roadhouse, buffet style dining at Heartwood House, light bites enjoyed poolside at Old Buck’s Place or eat alfresco at Maude’s Bar and Terrace. After a day of making memories, retreat to the newly remodeled and spacious rooms and suites. The views are breathtaking, and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation.
The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is the perfect vacation destination to recharge regardless of what stage of life you are in. For more information visit LostPinesResortandSpa.com
ADVENTUROUS GETAWAY OR A SERENE ESCAPE
JULY 2024
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 4TH
Boom! In the Park
Evans Towne Center Park
Get ready for the biggest Fourth of July celebration in town! Boom! In the Park will be held at the Evans Towne Center Park on the Fourth of July at 5pm. There will be live music from Whiskey Run and Ryan Trotti, food and beverage vendors, a brand new laser show, and of course, fireworks! Admission is free.
JULY 4TH
Yankee
Doodle Dash 5k - 10k
Mill Village Trailhead
Kick off your Independence Day celebration on the river! Don your favorite red, white, or blue for this Augusta tradition. This course follows the scenic Savannah River, and you can choose either the 5k or 10k. For more information and to register, visit yankeedoodledash.itsyourrace.com.
JULY 4TH
4th of July
Happy 4th of July from the Evans City Lifestyle Team! We hope you have a wonderful Independence Day!
JULY 10TH, 17TH, 24TH, 31ST Summer Movie Series
Columbia County Library
Visit the Columbia County Library every Wednesday at 2pm for their Summer Movie Series! July 10th - The Goonies, July 17th - Jumanji, July 24th - James and the Giant Peach, July 31 - Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl.
JULY 12TH
Food Truck Friday
Columbia County Amphitheater
Food Truck Friday will be at the Columbia County Amphitheater on July 12th at 6pm. There will be a diverse range of food trucks and live entertainment.
JULY 13TH
Miss Memories Matter Pageant 2024
Hardin Auditorium
The second annual Miss Memories Matter Pageant takes place at the Hardin Auditorium on July 13th at 2pm. This pageant aims to increase awareness for Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. For more information, visit the Miss Memories Matter Alzheimer's Awareness Pageant Facebook page.
