Good morning, Augusta.

Kroger announced plans to close 60 stores over the next 18 months — the company confirmed shutdowns for several locations in Georgia on June 30th.

A new report says that reducing Georgia’s clean energy tax credits may lower renewable energy investments and affect local job growth—state leaders are set to review the policy soon.

Augusta University’s School of Computer and Cyber Sciences held its fourth VICEROY Kids Camp for 50 fourth- to eighth-graders who learned coding and online safety.

The week-long camp at University Hall—featuring coding races and robot challenges—helped spark early interest in cybersecurity careers.

The University System of Georgia and systems from Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee joined a multi-state consortium to launch a new accreditation model that focuses on academics and student outcomes (a change designed to address concerns over current practices). This effort aims to lower costs and boost accountability in public higher education.

Augusta University School of Public Health announced that Sarah Wackerbarth, PhD, is the new director of its Master of Public Health program and begins today.

She brings over 28 years of experience from her previous role at the University of Kentucky and plans to expand training with local partners (such as Wellstar MCG Health and the Medical College of Georgia).

A federal judge in the Northern District of Georgia stopped enforcement of a 2024 law that forced social media companies to check user ages and get parent permission for those under 16—saying the law limits free speech and burdens all users.

Georgia DOT announced lane closures for construction will be suspended from 12:00 p.m. on July 3 until 10:00 p.m. on July 6 to ease holiday congestion—historical data shows varied traffic on metro and major interstates, so drivers are advised to check travel tools and plan ahead.

Bryce Leatherwood: Boom In The Park

5-9 p.m. — Evans Towne Center Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with live music and fun activities at the 25th Annual BOOM! in the Park.

Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Sacred Heart Cultural Center — Tickets required — Experience an enchanting Candlelight concert featuring the music of Queen performed by the Listeso String Quartet.

Summer Beach Party

7-11 p.m. — Miller Theater — VIP tickets available — Kick off summer with legendary Motown hits and a surprise guest performance.

Nike Jr. EYBL 7th Grade Championship

July 14-17 — Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center — Entry fees may apply — Watch young basketball talent compete for the championship title.

Signing with Sara (ASL) Storytime

10:00-10:30 a.m. — Wallace Branch Library — Free entry — Learn American Sign Language basics with ASL Certified Signer, Sara Cooks.

Crimson Hills Trail Ride

4:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m. — Crimson Hills — Cost varies — Experience thrilling trail rides, live entertainment, and a lively atmosphere with food and games for all ages.

2nd Annual Bookbag Bash

10 AM - 1 PM — Bell Auditorium — Free entry — Enjoy free school supplies, costume characters, and live DJ performances.

Mahjong Mania Camp

9 AM - 12 PM — Episcopal Day School — Supplies included — Learn the art of Mahjong with expert instruction in a fun, engaging environment.

Augusta Captains Seafood Festival

1 PM to 5 PM — Augusta Common — Free admission — Enjoy three days of fresh seafood and live music in a family-friendly atmosphere.

AugustaCon Summer 2025

10 AM – 5 PM — Columbia County Exhibition Center — Ticket details pending — Explore a variety of fandoms at Georgia’s premier comic convention.