Augusta
Morning News
Thursday, February 19th, 2026
Good morning, Augusta. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of February.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Columbia County officials are working with the Development Authority on a plan for Trader Joe's to open in Evans; they will share more details on the site and timeline when available. Augusta CEO
- ➤ An Augusta biotech firm received $15M federal funding today to expand shikimic acid production at its facility on Lovers Lane in east Augusta. The expansion will help boost domestic supply + strengthen production of key ingredients for Tamiflu. The Augusta Chronicle
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The historic Tasty Shop on Laney-Walker Blvd once thrived as a restaurant and safe meeting place for Black Augustans, hosting groups like the NAACP during segregation. Nichelle Protho is working on a documentary to preserve the legacy of this community hub and the surrounding Golden Blocks. WRDW
- ➤ Jamal Moore will perform his first solo concert in eight years at Hardin Auditorium on Feb. 28 at 7:30 p.m. His 'Full Circle: A Homecoming Celebration' show will feature a mix of love songs and unique covers that mark a new direction in his career. Augusta Good News
- ➤ Augusta residents remembered Rev. Jesse Jackson’s impact on civil rights (a figure cherished for his personal connection) as they shared personal memories following his death. WRDW
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Technical College System of Georgia partnered with American College of Education today to offer students, graduates and employees a chance to transfer up to 84–90 hours and receive tuition reductions to lower debt. The new agreement opens pathways to online degree and credential programs for faster career advancement. Augusta CEO
- ➤ Local schools are tackling reading challenges as the state pushes its new literacy plan — the program will guide changes in classrooms across the district. WRDW
- ➤ UGA School of Medicine received preliminary accreditation from the LCME on Feb. 13, paving the way for recruiting its inaugural class; applications for fall 2026 enrollment will open soon and a new $100 million facility nears completion at the Health Sciences Campus. Augusta CEO
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ This Saturday morning, residents are invited to bring old tires and electronics to the Richmond County landfill for recycling — the event aims to reduce waste and support local environmental efforts. WRDW
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ A local farm enhanced its disability therapy program with new grant funds — it now offers special support to community members. WRDW
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Harlem High School won its quarterfinal game over Howard on Tuesday with junior Ty Shine scoring 35 points, and the Bulldogs face Cross Creek today at Baldwin High School at 8:30 p.m.— they aim to improve on past encounters with Cross Creek. Augusta Good News
- ➤ Local veterans from VA Augusta have been chosen to appear on disabled sports event posters—Dr. Lisa Maddox will be featured for a winter sports clinic in Colorado April 4-11, and Justin Hall will appear on a golf clinic poster in Iowa Sept. 13-18. VA Augusta’s program supports veteran adaptive sports. WRDW
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Maddox Batson Concert
8-10 p.m. — Bell Auditorium — Ticket info not provided — Experience the insightful melodies of 15-year-old songwriter Maddox Batson, known for his poignant covers.
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C&G at Fat Tuesday Food and Music Fest
1-8 p.m. — Evans Towne Center Park — Free entry — Experience the vibrant rhythms and flavors of the Big Easy with live music and delicious food.
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Independent Hustler Awards Show
7-11 PM — Jammin Moments — Ticket sales for the public — Celebrate the achievements of local entrepreneurs and artists at this annual awards show.
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An Evening of Soul with Raheem DeVaughn
3:30-10:30 p.m. — Miller Theater — $64.15 to $106.15 — Experience the soulful sounds of Grammy-nominated Raheem DeVaughn and Eric Roberson in a night of R&B music.
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2026 Augusta-Aiken Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Show
10 AM - 6 PM — Julian Smith Casino — Under 12 free with paid adult — Discover gems, minerals, and fossils along with exciting activities and demonstrations.
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Fifth Annual Run the Runway 5K
8-11 a.m. — Augusta Regional Airport — $12-$30 — Experience a unique running event on an airport runway while supporting a local nonprofit for veterans.
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Robert Earl Keen Live Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — Miller Theater — Tickets available — Experience the musical journey of Robert Earl Keen as he continues to inspire with his storytelling and melodies.
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Doing Business with Augusta Workshop
2 PM — Accelerate Augusta — Free entry — Discover opportunities and insights into doing business in Augusta, Georgia.
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I-20 Highways Basketball Tournament
All day — Riverview Park Activities Center — Entry fee varies — Compete in a thrilling weekend of grassroots basketball with top AAU programs from the region.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The hard part isn't making the decision. It's living with it.
~ Ryan Holiday
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