Good morning, Augusta.

Augusta Fire Department firefighter Damien Taitague died Thursday night after he shot himself at the end of a chase with Columbia County deputies on Lewiston Road near Grovetown & he was pronounced dead at Doctors Hospital.

After missing cuts in five of his eight events, Max Homa scored a 70 on Friday at Augusta National Golf Club—leaving him at even par as he enters the Masters weekend.

He said he felt relief breaking his slump and plans to build momentum in the upcoming rounds.

Amateur golfers in the Masters Tournament face tough challenges at Augusta National Golf Club as they play with veteran champions.

They get advice from players like Hiroshi Tai, Noah Kent, and Justin Hastings to calm their nerves and play their best.

Rory McIlroy shot a 66 at Augusta National on Friday, making three birdies and an eagle to move within two shots of Justin Rose.

The Northern Irishman recovered from two late double bogeys — a rough start that did not break his focus — and remains in contention to complete his career Grand Slam.

2nd Annual Off-Broad Street Play Festival

Apr 18-26, 8 p.m. — Le Chat Noir — Check website for costs — Experience a night filled with diverse short plays from global playwrights at an intimate theatre.

Earth Day Augusta 2025

10 AM – 3 PM — Phinizy Swamp Nature Park — Free entry — Celebrate Earth Day with family activities, local crafts, and green business vendors.

AHA BLS CPR and AED Class

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. — CPR Certification Augusta — Contact the organizer for refund details — Get hands-on training and certification for essential life-saving skills.

Sports Playtime

9:30 AM – 12:00 PM — Imagination Station Children's Museum at Hickman Park — No cost specified — Engage in fun activities with your family at the museum.

Gladys Knight Concert

7:30 PM – 1:30 AM — William B. Bell Memorial Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary Gladys Knight performing timeless R&B hits.

Augusta Symphony Concert: Star Wars

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Miller Theater — Ticket Info TBD — Experience the iconic Star Wars movie soundtrack performed live by the Augusta Symphony.

Do The '80s Pub Crawl

4:30-9 p.m. — Whiskey Bar Kitchen — 25% OFF with code RAD25 — Relive the '80s with fun contests and vibrant themes in Augusta's nostalgic party.

Children's Book Reading at The Morris

2-4 p.m. — Morris Museum of Art — Free entry — Enjoy readings from local authors and create your own book cover inspired by their delightful children's stories.

Gaither Vocal Band Concert

7-11 p.m. — Bell Auditorium — Tickets available — Experience soulful performances by the Gaither Vocal Band featuring the voice of Chris Blue.

Alison Krauss & Union Station Concert

8 PM — Bell Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful bluegrass sounds of Alison Krauss and her band.