Consumer Stories

Consumer Stories

Restaurant set to open at busy intersection

A few years back, two national fast food franchises failed near the corner of Washington Road and Bobby Jones Expressway in Martinez. In today’s video business minute, Publisher Neil Gordon says, perhaps the third time is the charm.

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Consumer Stories

Simon Says: Economists and big sporting events!

There has been much discussion about the NFL overtime rules after Kansas City beat Buffalo with a touchdown in the first drive of overtime. Buffalo’s offense did not even get on the field to try and respond. It seems unfair to me. Soccer tried the equivalent overtime rule in the 1994 World Cup. If teams were tied at full time, there was a period of extra time and the first team to score won. At least each team was on the field and could score. This golden goal rule has

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Consumer Stories

Masters media biz

It’s almost tournament time, and one area media company is stepping up their business efforts to generate interest in the Masters. Publisher Neil Gordon has more on the changing “landscape.”

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Consumer Stories

Update: Restaurant hopes to open this spring

Editor’s Note: Late last week, ABD shared the story of Surcheros Fresh Mex coming to Washington Crossing in Augusta. Recently, we received updated opening and menu information from the company, and we’re passing that along today. Deborah Kirkland, the company’s Director of Marketing & Franchising Support, acknowledges Surcheros is similar to other Tex-Mex restaurants, but she says its menu options distinguish it from the rest. “We offer over 20 different toppings that are available to guests to enjoy on their entrees with no extra charge,” Kirkland states. These toppings include

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Consumer Stories

New Starbucks location to open on Walton Way

A coffee giant will open another store between Augusta University’s Summerville Campus and Augusta’s medical district, according to a news release from Jordan Trotter Commercial Real Estate. Starbucks, which already has 16 locations throughout the CSRA, plans to build a new one at the corner of Walton Way and Chafee Avenue (see photo above story). Other locations include Wrightsboro Road in Augusta, William Few Parkway in Evans, and Knox Avenue in North Augusta. Starbucks competes with small local shops, such as Buona Caffe Artisan Roasted Coffee in Augusta, Rooted Coffeehouse

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Consumer Stories

Local company wants to save your roof

A local home improvement company wants to help you avoid the cost of a roof replacement. Roof Savers Georgia LLC, which is owned by Russell Beckum, Allen Childs, and Larry Hogue, officially opened for business on Nov. 13, 2021. Roof Savers specializes in rejuvenating residential and commercial roofs (see photo above story) by applying a plant-based oil created by a company called Greener Shingles. The oil is designed to improve an older roof’s condition by restoring its flexibility and waterproofing protection. Beckum says it also greatly enhances its appearance and

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Consumer Stories

Nationally known chef opens new Aiken restaurant

What is a neon fig? Not what you think. It’s a new restaurant opening soon in Aiken. One of the owners was raised in Aiken, Cecelia Roust. The other, Marvin Sterling, is a chef and her boyfriend with some serious kitchen credentials. Cecelia managed restaurants in Savannah. Georgia. Marvin has been featured on Burger, Brews, and Que on the Food Network and Food Paradise for the Travel Channel. They have both opened several restaurants for various companies, but the Neon Fig is the first they’ve owned together. When COVID hit

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Consumer Stories

Real Talk Real Estate: It’s Going To Be a Long WINTER

It is official, Punxsutawney Phil has seen his shadow and we are looking down the scope of what is expected to be a long winter in the CSRA. Unfortunately for us, this rings true for real estate as well. I know we all hoped for a reprieve from the crazy market, but today’s statistics continue to be heavy-handed against buyers. The first big hit was an interest rate hike for the VA and FHA loan products. We are seeing these rates starting to hit over 4%. I have compiled a

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Consumer Stories

Evans shopping center almost fully leased

Two large retailers are opening new locations in the Mullins Colony Shopping Center, near Belk in Evans. Brazilian Wax and Spa by Claudia (see photo above story) offers a variety of services, including waxing, facials, and Botox treatments. Founded in Charleston in 2007 by Claudia Rissardi, Brazilian Wax and Spa has more than 20 locations in four states: Georgia, South Carolina, Florida, and Pennsylvania. According to the company’s website, the company will soon add more locations, including one in Charlotte. Augusta already has one location at 2907 Washington Road in

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Consumer Stories

FAITH FRIDAY: The Proof (and Faith) is in the Cheesecake

Arielle Page puts the “small” in small business. Her homemade cheesecake pastries are primarily online/pick-up only right now. However, that is slowly changing. Since August of 2020, when Arie’s Confectionaries officially began operating as a business, the pastry chef’s sweets have been making their presence–and taste–known. While she’s the sole baker, her mom helps when it’s time to do a pop-up shop or a farmers’ market. “We offer a variety of cheesecake flavors!” she exclaims. “What makes this company unique is that we provide mini, assorted cheesecakes. Customers are able

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