Good morning, Augusta.

MCG students learned their residency placements on Match Day yesterday (Mar.

20) as the state faced a shortage of healthcare workers. The event highlighted challenges in matching future doctors to our community's needs.

Youth Leadership Augusta announced Alexis Williams and Doressa Hawes as Co-Chairs for the Class of 2027.

Applications for rising juniors and seniors (high school students) in Richmond County are open now and end April 17.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has awarded $33.2 million in grants through its Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program for conservation and outdoor recreation projects across the state.

Augusta’s Canal Authority received $3 million to support its Riverwatch Trail & Bridge project as part of the awards going to local governments.

House lawmakers approved Senate Bill 523, establishing a Georgia process for investigating discrimination complaints in schools and colleges related to race, ethnicity, national origin or religion.

The bill returns to the Senate for agreement as Lt. Gov. Burt Jones commits to protecting affected students.

Gov. Brian Kemp signed a measure suspending the gasoline tax for 60 days as rising inflation and global oil prices push costs higher — the suspension is now in effect to ease high fuel costs for drivers.

At Augusta VA Medical Center, an internal email reminds staff not to refer veterans to external oversight agencies as the acting executive director works to answer Sen. Ossoff’s inquiry on staffing shortages and leadership gaps.

Secretary Collins visited on March 11 to stress that leaders must focus on care.

Augusta engineers have outlined a traffic plan — aimed at easing congestion for the Masters tournament in 2026.

The plan focuses on key routes and timing adjustments to help visitors navigate the area during the event.

The new state budget signed on March 3 offers temporary tax relief—providing a Homeowner Tax Relief Grant that cuts around $500 from property taxes and income tax rebates from a $850 million surplus—and homeowners may appeal taxable values to secure an assessment freeze for three years.

Cross Creek won its third 3A GHSA state basketball championship this decade after cutting down the net, finishing the season 27-5 overall.

Senior Dontrell Jackson was named MVP, and head coach Lawrence Kelly said the team also values building character off the court.

Dozens of junior golfers, including local teen Kipp Madison and Duluth's Moa Kim, will compete in the Drive, Chip and Putt finals at Augusta National Golf Club on April 5—kickstarting Masters week.

Augusta GreenJackets are debuting a new brisket brownie that layers chopped brisket, caramel drizzle and crisp bacon over a split brownie at SRP Park (187 Railroad Ave.) during home games.

The treat will be available when the homestand begins on Tuesday, Apr. 14.

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.

Dare To Tri Sprint Triathlon

9 AM – 1 PM — Fort Gordon Indoor Swimming Pool — Check your competitive spirit with a 300m swim, 10-mile bike ride, and 5K run.

Stand-Up Comedy by Steven Ho

8-11 p.m. — Miller Theater — $39 to $59 — Laugh out loud with former ER Technician turned comedian Steven Ho as he shares hilarious healthcare tales.

Heroes for Hope 5K Run/Walk

8:00 – 11:55 AM — Mill Village Trailhead - Augusta Canal — Registration fees apply — Unleash your inner hero at this vibrant 5K event supporting Child Enrichment.

Katy Nichole and Claire Leslie Concert

7-10 p.m. — Miller Theater — VIP doors at 5 p.m. — Experience a night of honest music with Katy Nichole and special guest Claire Leslie that showcases faith and authenticity.