Good morning, Augusta.

Golden Harvest Food Bank awarded $250,000 through its Network Investment Program on Monday to 23 local organizations supporting hunger relief in the community.

The 2027 Kia Sportage Hybrid SUV, the first hybrid built at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, was unveiled on Tuesday at the Ellabell facility in Bryan County.

Gov. Kemp and first lady Marty Kemp attended the event, marking a milestone for the largest economic project in the area.

On Friday, June 19, Augusta will hold a free Juneteenth festival requiring registration at the Exchange Club Fairgrounds on Hale Street from 2 to 10 p.m. + Thomson will host a joint Juneteenth and Father’s Day celebration at the McDuffie County Government Complex from 6 to 10 p.m.

The Augusta Junior Players held a media run-through of Hadestown: Teen Edition on Thursday night, showcasing local young performers.

Public performances will be held Friday and Saturday nights at Davidson Fine Arts School (tickets are available on the Augusta Players’ website).

SRNS honored 15 graduating students by awarding a total of $48,000 in college scholarships at Newberry Hall in Aiken – a long-running program that has provided over $760,000 in awards for 17 years.

The initiative supports students’ futures and local workforce growth.

Beth NeSmith, PhD, retires as dean of AU’s College of Nursing after 40 years in the Augusta community, having grown from bedside nursing to academic leadership through strong mentorship.

Local attorney Austin Jackson and the Boys and Girls Club launched a six-week Aviation Academy for teens interested in aviation careers — the program kicked off Wednesday at the Boys and Girls Club Support Center on Chafee Ave.

Drought conditions remain in Augusta as recent storms do little to stop rising heat and evaporation, leaving Richmond County (100% affected) without relief.

As summer heat rises and school is out in Augusta, Georgia Power advises checking HVAC basics and adjusting daily habits—like changing filters—to lower energy bills.

Eligible households may also access free services from the EASE program to improve efficiency.

The city is behind schedule demolishing dangerous blighted properties as funding and staff shortages hamper progress with 104 demolition orders when only 62 can be completed — City Administrator Allen said she will return in 60 days with a new plan.

Gas prices rose by about 33 cents per gallon on Wednesday when the gas tax was reinstated after a two-and-a-half-month break.

Gov. Brian Kemp ended the tax break that began in March and was extended in May after Memorial Day travel.

Recent heavy rains have brought more mosquitoes and ticks to Augusta, and health experts urge residents to remove standing water (like in plant saucers and bird baths) and use repellent when outdoors.

Local health agencies stress keeping yards tidy to reduce breeding grounds.

Tom Papa's Grateful Bread Tour

7-10 p.m. — Miller Theater — Tickets available — Catch comedian Tom Papa as he brings laughs and stories from his 25-year career in stand-up.

Wild Woods 26: Through the Looking Glass

6 p.m. — Back To Nature Garden Center — $25, kids under 12 free — Experience camping, live music, and nature workshops under the stars at this unique festival.

Ferris Bueller's Day Off Screening

2-4 p.m. — Miller Theater — Free tickets — Enjoy a classic film in a historic venue as part of the community celebration.

Celtic Throne II - Psalter of Ireland

7-10 p.m. — Miller Theater — Tickets available — Experience an electrifying fusion of Irish dance, music, theater, and cinema showcasing the epic journey of Ollav Fola.

Nike Boys Basketball Camp at Fox Creek High School

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Fox Creek High School — $329 for four days — Enhance basketball skills while having fun under expert coaching.

Rebound Fitness Class

9:15-10:00 a.m. — Warren Sports & Fitness — No-show fee applies — Get fit with a ladies-only workout that energizes and empowers.

Build The Band

7-10 p.m. — Miller Theater — $34.65 to $84.65 — Experience a showdown of musical talent as local bands compete for charity in an exciting live event.

Tennis Camp

9 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Warren Sports & Fitness — Fees apply — Improve tennis skills and enjoy a fun, instructional summer camp experience for young athletes.

Music In The Park

7-8 p.m. — Maude Edenfield Park — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful outdoor concert series in a scenic park setting.