Good morning, Augusta.

News 12 started a new partnership with nonprofit Grant Me Hope to help 15-year-old Keyshone (and other older children in foster care) find permanent homes.

The initiative aims to provide stability for vulnerable kids.

Legendary journalist Scott Hudson died today after battling cancer.

He retired in December and led the Augusta Press in uncovering local government corruption while spearheading community efforts such as cleaning up the Augusta Canal and reforming laws, leaving a lasting mark on local journalism.

Augusta startup Creo AI launches today as an AI-powered marketing partner for local small businesses, offering social media, email, websites & sales pipeline management.

Early clients like Good Get Apparel saw a 75% sales boost, and the company plans to expand to nearby Chattanooga & Greenville over the next year.

Sandy Lake (Director of Logistics for the Georgia Center of Innovation) previews the 2026 Georgia Logistics Summit scheduled for April 17 at Savannah Convention Center and says attendees will learn key logistics trends.

New data centers are planned in CSRA locations such as Columbia County and Richmond County — areas where neighbors express concerns about environmental impacts and rising utility costs.

The projects promise new jobs while intensifying local debates about future community benefits.

The Richmond County Board of Education will vote Monday night at the Central Auditorium on a plan to close T.W.

Josey High, Murphey Middle and Jenkins White while replacing Barton Chapel Elementary with a new school. Community members urge the board to preserve Josey High's heritage.

Augusta University students and alumni took part in the 2026 Global Game Jam, a 48-hour online challenge (shifted from an in-person format due to weather) where they created video games.

Team Mask Maxxing won and advanced to the Best in Georgia competition (paired with an industry mentor) after the event.

Junior communication major Shivali Subreenduth performed at Maxwell Theatre’s campus Open Mic event today, sharing her lifelong passion for singing—she began performing in middle school and uses the stage to connect and tell her story in a supportive space.

Augusta Tomorrow unveiled its 2035 Vision plan Friday that sets a long-term blueprint for a renovated downtown featuring a 5-Minute Downtown concept, an expanded riverfront called Rippled Edge, a green space connector, and a Canopy Network to keep essential amenities within reach.

The Augusta Recreation and Parks Department announced the temporary closure of the Edward M.

McIntyre Sr. Riverwalk lower level for playground repairs after Hurricane Helene damage. Pedestrian access is restricted and work is expected to take about four weeks (weather permitting) while the upper level remains open.

Health officials report heavy flu levels in Georgia and South Carolina as cases continue rising today.

Residents in Augusta and nearby areas are advised to monitor symptoms and seek medical care if their condition worsens.

Due to voting irregularities, last week's Athlete of the Week poll for Feb.

8-15 did not produce a winner, and local readers can vote until Sunday, March 1 at 5 p.m. Future nominee suggestions are welcomed by contacting sports reporter Dhani Joseph.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Doing Business with Augusta Workshop

2 PM — Accelerate Augusta — Free entry — Discover opportunities and insights into doing business in Augusta, Georgia.

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.

Board Game Night with Cardboard Castle

5-9 p.m. — Savannah River Brewing Co. — 15% off draft beer for steinclub members and more — Enjoy a fun evening filled with games from the local store.

Annual Spring Luncheon Event

9:30 AM – 2:00 PM — Augusta Country Club — Registration required — Celebrate spring with renowned speakers and fellow garden enthusiasts at the Augusta Council of Garden Clubs' luncheon.