Good morning, Augusta.

Today part four of a six-month series on gun safety highlights a recent panel where AU police and community leaders stressed the need for safe firearm storage & open communication to prevent gun violence.

The panel explained that clear safety practices and better emergency planning can help reduce accidents and theft, urging the Augusta community to work together.

Augusta saw its third fatal wreck in four days when a 7 a.m. crash on May 8 on Deans Bridge Road near the Richmond County Marshal’s Office claimed the life of an unidentified driver—he was taken to Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center and pronounced dead at 7:41 a.m.—with an autopsy scheduled.

A judge accepted Frank Ward’s guilty plea in a 2022 case where he attacked his estranged wife at gunpoint and threatened to set her on fire on Feb.

12 in the 2400 block of Lisbon Road—he was sentenced to 20 years behind bars and must maintain a 500-yard distance from the victim.

A state historical marker to honor Rev.

Dr. William Jefferson White will be unveiled at Harmony Baptist Church on Hopkins St at 10am—organized by the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History, the Georgia Historical Society and Pamplin College at Augusta University—to mark his legacy in education and civil rights.

On Thursday afternoon, white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel chimney to show that a new pope was elected.

Cardinal Robert Prevost—now known as Pope Leo XIV—became the first American pope and brought joy to parishioners at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Buckhead, Ga.

Vera Stewart—owner of VeryVera and a successful entrepreneur—will be the keynote speaker at Augusta University’s commencement ceremonies today at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center, sharing her story of hard work turning a small catering business into a nationally recognized brand.

A new quarterly tracker shows that Augusta and Columbus joined the top 30 U.S. cities for renter interest at 22nd and 29th places as Augusta's favorited listings jumped 74 percent and apartment availability dropped slightly.

Atlanta remains fourth, with local renters spending more time exploring and narrowing their leasing options.

Ladies R&B Kickback 3

8-10 p.m. — Bell Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience an unforgettable evening of soulful R&B music performances.

Coheed and Cambria with Mastodon

8 PM — Bell Auditorium — Ticket prices starting at $42 — Experience a night of progressive rock and metal with two iconic bands.

Augusta Anime-Fest

10 AM – 5 PM — Columbia County Exhibition Center — Entry details not specified — A collector’s paradise for anime, manga, and pop culture fans featuring exhibitors and industry professionals.

AHA BLS CPR and AED Class in Augusta

10 AM - 1 PM — CPR Certification Augusta — Contact for pricing — Gain essential CPR and AED skills to meet workplace requirements with same-day certification.

The Big Run Celebration

6-8 p.m. — SRP Park — Registration fees apply — Celebrate Global Running Day with a community of runners and walkers.

Kids Night Out at The Kroc Center

6-9 p.m. — The Salvation Army Kroc Center Augusta — $15 pre-registration, $20 same day — Parents can relax while kids enjoy a fun-filled evening of activities including swimming and games.

Coffee and Cars Augusta, GA

12-3 p.m. — John H. Ruffin, Jr. Courthouse — Free admission — A casual car meet for enthusiasts featuring local rides and refreshments.

Historical Marker Dedication for The Congregation Children of Israel Synagogue

2-3 p.m. — Augusta Jewish Museum — Free entry — Celebrate the new historical marker honoring the Congregation Children of Israel Synagogue with this community dedication event.