CSRA, GA July 2025

Premier General Contractors Since 1986

Beyond providing quality workmanship and comprehensive design/build services, we strive to build a relationship of mutual trust and confidence with each of our clients’ large and small. We accomplish this by putting your priorities first and conducting ourselves with integrity in every aspect of our business.

Letter from the Publisher

There’s something about the word explore that stirs a little curiosity in us all. Whether it's discovering new places, trying new flavors, or simply stepping outside your routine, exploring invites us to pause, look around, and savor what we might’ve otherwise missed.

In this issue, we’re taking you on a summer journey, beginning with a tour through a stunning Appling home by Beth Carter of B.E.C. Custom Homes. From layout to details, it’s the kind of space that inspires both comfort and creativity.

Next, we visit Paws in Paradise Luxury Resort & Spa, where a brand-new Wellness Program is making it easier than ever to care for your pet’s health and happiness — something every fur-parent will appreciate.

We’re also thrilled to share sizzling summer recipes from Blackbeard Spice Company. These grilling recipes bring bold flavor to your backyard, whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd.

Wherever this summer takes you — whether it’s down the street or off the beaten path — we hope this issue inspires you to explore a little more.

Here’s to discovering something new,

JANA MORRIS, PUBLISHER @EVANS.LIFESTYLE

July 2025

PUBLISHER

Jana Morris | jana.morris@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Bailey Hall | bailey.hall@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Michelle Parnell | michelle.parnell@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Daniel Morris

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Bailey Hall, Michelle Parnell

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Joe Bailey Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Logos Classical Academy Announces New Campus

Logos Classical Academy is on the move! This fall, they’ll relocate just 1.5 miles down the road to their new home at Warren Crossbridge. The new campus offers expanded space and exciting opportunities as LCA continues its mission to provide Christ-centered, excellent education. We’re excited to see this next chapter unfold for such a valued part of our community!

Goat Kick Coffee’s Summer Menu is Here!

Goat Kick Coffee is serving up bold summer flavors with their seasonal menu! Sip on refreshing shaken lemonades and house made ube creations, and don’t miss the BBQ Chicken Pizza Bagel—available exclusively at the ETC location. With fun new drinks and tasty bites, it’s the perfect time to treat yourself and soak up those summer vibes!

Prepare for Babies Opens First Maternity Home

Prepare for Babies, a local nonprofit supporting mothers and babies, is opening its first maternity home— Metzudah—this August. Founders Rushton and Mandy Metzler will serve as the first house parents, offering a safe, faith-rooted refuge for women in need. “Metzudah,” Hebrew for “God my refuge,” reflects the home’s mission of strength and shelter. Applications open this August, with a ribbon cutting to follow. Learn more or support their mission by emailing metzudah@prepareforbabies.org or visiting prepareforbabies.org .

ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOE BAILEY PHOTOGRAPHY

SOUTHERN ELEGANCE MEETS MODERN COMFORT

Explore the charm of country living with B.E.C. Custom Homes

Just 12 minutes from the Appling/Harlem exit on I-20, nestled on nearly three acres of peaceful Columbia County countryside, lies a hidden gem: a 4,413 square foot custom home that redefines Southern luxury. Built by Brian and Beth Carter of B.E.C. Custom Homes, this property is a testament to craftsmanship, comfort, and the quiet beauty of Appling, Georgia.

As we arrive at 1807 Smith Crawford Road, a stately drive flanked by brick pillars welcomes us. Copper lanterns glow softly on the large covered porch, where herringbone brick flooring and a stained wood ceiling create a warm, elegant entrance.

Step inside, and you’re immediately struck by the new heart pine floors and eight-foot doors that stretch throughout the home, opening into a living space designed for both entertaining and everyday comfort. Through a brick arched walkway, the family

CONTINUED >

room awaits with custom built-ins and a gas log fireplace, while a wall of sliding glass doors brings the outdoors in—extending your gathering space to a 517-square-foot screened porch with a wood-burning fireplace.

At the heart of the home is the kitchen, outfitted with high-end KitchenAid appliances, a gas range, and a built-in wall oven and microwave. Just beyond, the butler’s pantry connects to a formal dining room and includes a wet bar, beverage fridge, and walk-in storage—perfect for hosting holidays or quiet evenings alike.

“The rear porch and pool create a peaceful oasis,” Beth shares. “And the oversized kitchen has all the bells and whistles.” Upstairs, three guest suites each offer private bathrooms and walk-in closets. A separate in-law suite above the three-car garage provides a full kitchen, living area, and laundry room—ideal for guests or multigenerational living. Appling’s appeal, Beth notes, lies in “top-ranked schools, a tight-knit community, and the serenity of rural living with easy access to shops and restaurants.” It’s the perfect balance of quiet and convenience.

“We’re a package deal, we can turn even the most challenging lot into something beautiful. We do magic with dirt.”

With over 25 years of experience, B.E.C. Custom Homes sets itself apart through quality, attention to detail, and full-service capabilities—from land clearing to landscaping and interior design. “We’re a package deal,” Beth says. “We can turn even the most challenging lot into something beautiful. We do magic with dirt.”

To learn more about building your dream home with B.E.C. Custom Homes, visit  www.beccustomhomes.com or call Brian Carter at 706-836-2846.

ADDED PEACE of Mind

PAWS IN PARADISE LUXURY RESORT & SPA'S NEW WELLNESS PROGRAM PROVIDES THE NEXT STEP IN PET CARE

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL

Paws in Paradise Luxury Resort and Spa, the CSRA’s premiere pet boarding, daycare, and grooming facility, continually strives to provide the best care for pets. As part of that commitment, the facility recently opened a new Wellness Program led by Crystal Lesley, a veterinary assistant with over twenty-five years of experience.

“In 1999, I started as a vet assistant and loved every aspect of veterinary medicine. Over the years, I was lead surgery technician and I’m certified in cardiac ultrasound, abdominal ultrasound, and canine therapeutic laser,” she shares. “Recently, I was given the opportunity to come to Paws in Paradise to develop the new Wellness Program. Paws is already a wonderful facility and for me to be able to come here and do what I love to do is exciting.”

Paws in Paradise’s new Wellness Program offers limited vaccines, heartworm tests, urinalysis, fecal testing, laser therapy on dogs for arthritis and joint pain, and more. Crystal, who is certified in animal nutrition and therapeutic nutrition, also provides guidance on which types of food are best based on a pet’s medical conditions.

CONTINUED >

“There is a lot of dog food out there with a lot of information and it can be overwhelming, especially if your pets have allergies or if your dog is diabetic or in renal, liver, or heart failure,” explains Crystal. “Nutrition plays a huge part in those situations, so anytime someone wants to come in, I can talk to them about the nutritional aspects of what their dog is going through.”

Although the Wellness Center can help in many situations, Crystal stresses that it does not take the place of a veterinarian but instead works in conjunction with veterinarians.

“I’m not trying to take the place of their vet.  I’m trying to help out in the interim while the pet is here with us.  My background is vet med, so I’m very pro vet! If anything happens while these animals are here when their owners are away, I’m here to help them until their owners get back,” she says. “If it’s something I can treat, then I want to be able to do that. If it’s something that they need to go straight to the vet, we have partnered with Care More Animal Hospital and Dr. Gross, who I’ve known and worked with for a very long time, so I’m able to run an animal straight to him and he is right there to help. And, if I have any questions, I’ve got Dr. Gross on speed dial.”

conditions that need to be monitored. In the past, dogs with diabetes or epilepsy may have been ineligible for boarding because there was no way to monitor them, but Crystal is excited to have that change.

“We can now accept medical cases because I can check blood glucose levels for our diabetic pets and I am able to monitor seizures should something like that occur during their stay,” Crystal explains. “Additionally, if any animals come in that need fluids, for example in cases of renal failure and their vet has prescribed subcutaneous fluids, I can continue that while they are here.”

“I’m using my experience to help and better their time here and hopefully, I’m providing a service that is beneficial to both the owner and the pet.” — Crystal Lesley

Because Crystal is not a veterinarian, she cannot make diagnoses or prescribe medication, but she can do testing, if needed, to rule out some issues. “I can also ensure everybody is free of parasites and things to make it safe here for all dogs,” she shares. “I’m using my experience to help and better their time here and hopefully, I’m providing a service that is beneficial to both the owner and the pet.”

Another benefit of having the Wellness Program on-site is the ability to board pets with medical

Paws in Paradise Luxury Resort & Spa is located at 4319 Evans to Locks Road. For more information or to book services for a pet, visit www.pawsinparadiseresort.com or call 706-750-9042.

Backyard Bold

RECIPES THAT BRING THE FIRE WITH BLACKBEARD SPICE COMPANY

Summer grilling season is here, and Blackbeard Spice Company is turning up the heat with a lineup made for long weekends and smoky cookouts. From tender pulled pork with bark that bites back, to smash burgers dripping in cheesy perfection, crispy wings with customizable flair, and ribs so rich they barely need sauce—these recipes are packed with big flavor and Southern swagger. Whether you're hosting a July 4th bash or just craving next-level barbecue, these dishes bring the fire, the flavor, and the feast.

Nothing says summer like the slow, smoky aroma of a well-prepared Boston butt. This recipe uses a balanced blend of heat, moisture, and time to deliver tender, juicy pulled pork with deep flavor and a beautiful bark—perfect for sandwiches or plates with classic Southern sides.

ingredients

• Bone-in Boston butt (8–10 lbs)

• Yellow or Dijon mustard

• Redbeard’s Spice by Blackbeard Spice Co.

• Blackbeard’s Spice Small Batch X

• Apple juice

• Pineapple juice

• Red wine vinegar

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil

directions

1. Preheat the Cooker

Fire up your grill or smoker and set it for indirect cooking at a steady 250–275°F. While the cooker comes to temperature, start prepping the pork.

2. Season the Meat

Pat the Boston butt dry with paper towels. Apply a thin layer of mustard (either classic yellow or Dijon) over the entire surface. This helps the rub stick and adds subtle flavor. Next, apply a generous coating of Redbeard’s Spice, followed by a top layer of Small Batch X for added complexity and a bold crust.

3. Set Up for Moisture

Place the pork butt fat-side down on the grill or smoker. To maintain humidity in the cooker, use a drip pan on the plate setter or place a shallow pan next to the meat. Fill it halfway with a 1:1:1 ratio of apple juice, pineapple juice, and red wine vinegar. This mix will steam during the cook, enhancing the flavor and preventing the meat from drying out.

4. Baste as You Go

Throughout the cook, use a mop brush to baste the pork with the juice mixture. Drizzle the liquid lightly over the top, letting it cascade down the sides of the meat. This adds layers of flavor and helps maintain moisture in the bark.

5. Cook Low and Slow

Let the pork butt cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 190–195°F. This typically takes several hours, so patience is key. Avoid opening the cooker too often—consistency in temperature will reward you with a better result.

6. Rest and Shred

Once the desired internal temperature is reached, wrap the pork tightly in foil and place it in a cooler lined with clean towels. Let it rest for 2 to 4 hours. During this time, the meat will relax, and the juices will redistribute for a tender final product.

When ready, unwrap the pork and remove the bone— it should pull out clean with no resistance. Shred the meat to your preferred consistency and serve on buns for pulled pork sandwiches or alongside your favorite Southern fixings.

BOSTON BUTT

These smash burgers are crispy, juicy, and loaded with flavor. Blackbeard’s Calico Jack Seasoning delivers bold spice, while sweet griddled onions and melted cheese take them to the next level. Finished with yellow mustard on a buttery toasted bun, they’re a simple but unforgettable addition to your burger lineup.

ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend), divided into four ¼ lb portions

• Blackbeard’s Spice Calico Jack Seasoning

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

• 4 slices American cheese (or your preferred melty cheese)

• Yellow mustard, to taste

• 4 burger buns

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

directions

1. Set Up the Griddle

Preheat your griddle with two heat zones:

• Hot zone (left side): Medium heat for searing.

• Cool zone (right side): Low heat for toasting buns.

2. Toast the Buns

Spread softened butter on the cut side of each bun. Toast on the cooler zone until golden brown (1–2 minutes). Set aside.

3. Form the Beef Balls

Roll the ground beef into four loose ¼ lb balls. Keep them airy for better texture.

4. Cook the Smash Burgers

Place beef balls onto the hot zone. Immediately top with a handful of thin-sliced onions. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, smash the balls flat, pressing the onions into the meat.

Season the exposed side with Calico Jack Seasoning. Cook 2–3 minutes until the edges are crisp and caramelized. Flip each patty, then immediately top with a slice of cheese. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt over the onions.

5. Assemble the Burgers

Spread yellow mustard on the bottom bun. Add the cheesy, onion-topped patty. Cap with the top bun.

Serve immediately with fries, chips, or grilled veggies. These burgers are rich, cheesy, and loaded with bold flavor—no toppings necessary.

CALICO

BOLD & SMOKY CHICKEN WINGS WITH KRAKEN, TRITON, OR SMALL BATCH X

These wings are all about flavor and crisp texture, whether you’re team Kraken, Triton, or Small Batch X. Each Blackbeard Spice rub brings a unique personality—Kraken brings the savory, Triton gleams with bright and bold from the Greek flair, and Small Batch X delivers rich, balanced depth. Grilled to crispy perfection, these wings are ideal for backyard cookouts for the 4th of July and any other cookout.

ingredients

• 4–5 lbs of chicken wings, split at the joint and patted dry

• 2–3 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado, evoo, or canola)

• Blackbeard Spice Kraken, Triton, or Small Batch X rub (enough to coat evenly)

• Optional: cornstarch (1 tbsp per pound) for extra crisp skin

• Optional garnishes: sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, fresh lime wedges, or blue cheese dressing

directions

1. Prep the Wings

Start by patting the wings completely dry with paper towels—this is key for crispy skin. Toss the wings in a large bowl with neutral oil and, if desired, a light dusting of cornstarch to enhance texture.

Sprinkle generously with your choice of Kraken, Triton, or Small Batch X rub. Toss until every wing is evenly coated. Let them rest at room temperature while the grill preheats.

2. Fire Up the Grill

Preheat your grill to 400°F for indirect cooking. Set it up so the wings can cook away from direct flames—either by turning off the middle burners or using a two-zone charcoal setup. This gives you crispy skin without flare-ups.

3. Grill Low and Slow (Then Finish Hot)

Place wings on the indirect side of the grill, close the lid, and cook for 30–40 minutes, flipping once or twice, until the internal temperature reaches 185–195°F. Wings are safe to eat at 165°F, but going higher renders more fat and crisps the skin beautifully.

For a final blast of crispness, move the wings over direct heat for 1–2 minutes per side, just until they blister and char lightly.

4. Serve Hot

Serve the wings right off the grill with your choice of garnishes. For Kraken or Small Batch X, consider cooling things off with a drizzle of blue cheese dressing or a side of ranch.

RIBS FEATURING BLACKBEARD’S SMALL BATCH

X & REDBEARD’S

RUB

ingredients

• 2 racks St. Louis-style pork ribs

• Blackbeard Spice Small Batch X (base layer)

• Blackbeard Spice Redbeard’s Rib Rub (top coat)

• Foil, butter, brown sugar, honey (for wrap stage)

• Optional: Apple juice or a 50/50 mix of apple juice and vinegar for spritzing

• Optional: Your favorite BBQ sauce for glazing

directions

1. Prep Your Smoker

Set your grill or smoker for indirect cooking and stabilize the temperature at 250–275°F.

Use fruit woods like apple or cherry for a clean, sweet smoke that complements the rubs.

2. Prep the Ribs

Remove the membrane from the bone side of each rack. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.

Generously season both sides with Small Batch X as your foundation. Then apply a top coat of Redbeard’s Rib Rub, covering the surface evenly for a bold, layered flavor.

3. Smoke – 3 Hours

Place the ribs bone-side down on the smoker. Smoke uncovered for 3 hours, spritzing occasionally with apple juice or a vinegar blend to keep the surface moist and help build bark.

4. Wrap – 2 Hours

After 3 hours, lay each rack meat-side down on a double layer of foil. Add a few pats of butter, a sprinkle of brown sugar, and a drizzle of honey directly on the foil beneath each rack.

Wrap tightly and return to the smoker for 2 more hours.

5. Finish – 30 to 60 Minutes

Carefully unwrap the ribs and place them back on the smoker, meat-side up.

If using sauce, brush a thin layer over each rack. Smoke uncovered for 30–60 minutes, or until the glaze sets and the ribs bend gently when lifted—tender, but not falling apart.

6. Serve

Let ribs rest for 10–15 minutes. Slice between the bones and serve hot.

JULY 1ST

Nature Game Night

Reed Creek Nature Park

On the first Tuesday of every month, Cardboard Castle Games hosts Nature Game Night inside the Wetland Interpretive Center. The nature-themed game fun begins at 4pm. This event is free to attend and no registration is required.

JULY 4TH

Boom! In the Park

Evans Towne Center Park

Celebrate the 25th Annual Boom! In the Park on Friday, July 4th at Evans Towne Center Park! Enjoy food trucks, a free concert with Maddie & Tae and Bryce Leatherwood, and a dazzling fireworks show. Gates open at 5pm. Admission is free - bring blankets and chairs for a fun, music-filled Fourth!

JULY 12TH

Anne Wilson in Concert

Columbia County Performing Arts Center

Experience the powerful voice of Anne Wilson live in Concert! Blending Contemporary Christian and Country, Anne's music brings bold faith and heartfelt storytelling to the stage. This event is a fundraiser for The KT Team. Their mission is to provide activities for physically challenged individuals to live out their passions for the great outdoors. To purchase tickets, visit TheCenterOfCC.com.

A Trusted Family & Divorce Law Firm In Evans, GA

You Need a Reliable Law Firm That Helps Deal with Your Family Matters

Mastny Law Firm practices exclusively in the area of family law to focus on providing our clients with the best representation in cases of divorce, child custody, visitation, legitimation, adoption, guardianship of minors, and child support. 18+ years Navy JAG experience (active and reserve) offering military discounts.

This magazine exists because Jana said ‘Yes.’

Behind every City Lifestyle magazine is a leap of faith — someone who chose to shape the story of their city. They saw a chance to inspire, connect, and elevate the voices that make their community shine.

Now, new cities are waiting for someone to say yes. What if it was you?

Evans City Lifestyle

JULY 13TH

Movies at the Miller: Jaws

Miller Theater

Visit the Miller Theater on July 13th for a free showing of Jaws! Admission is free but you will need a ticket to enter. Tickets are available at the Miller Theater box office. The movie starts at 2pm.

JULY 26TH

AugustaCon - Summer 2025

Columbia County Exhibition Center

Don't miss the AugustaCon Pop Culture Show on Saturday, July 26th from 10am to 5pm at the Columbia County Exhibition Center! For more information, visit TheAugustaCon.com.

JULY 26TH

A1A - The Official & Original Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show

Miller Theater

Don't miss the A1A - The Official & Original Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show on July 26th at the Miller Theater! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit MillerTheaterAugusta.com.