Good morning, Augusta.

Retired Army officer Robert Lyons organized community volunteers to plant flags at 492 homes in the Stratford neighborhood of Evans today to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Neighbors donated to support the project, which includes a children's bike parade and a history lesson by Martha Lyons at the pool opening.

Vietnam veteran and pastor Willie L.

Jones Sr received his Quilt of Valor at Peggy's Restaurant in Wrens on May 11 — the honor, presented by The Garden City Quilters from Augusta, marked his dedicated service during Vietnam and his years of pastoring in the community.

Jullian Redd, a South Augusta freelance painter who grew up in the neighborhood, is working to revive the community after watching it fall into disrepair years ago (his art now brings a hopeful touch).

The Richmond County Marshal’s Office runs its Box Fan Drive since May to help vulnerable locals stay cool, with volunteers dropping nearly 70 fans this Wednesday at the substation on Deans Bridge Road (an ongoing donation drive for those affected by heat).

Fans or monetary donations are welcome.

Chick-fil-A — which started in Georgia — topped a YouGov poll as the favorite fried chicken chain, receiving 25.3% of votes and beating major competitors.

The survey gathered over 44,000 responses from March 2025 to February 2026, and the chain continues to grow.

Georgia lights up Fourth of July with fireworks, live music and parades; Augusta’s own show joins events across the state, including Stone Mountain Park and Callaway Resort (ongoing up to today), as families enjoy local festivities.

The Augusta Museum of History is hosting free America 250 exhibits this weekend, featuring a LEGO display with a bald eagle and Atlanta’s Capitol replica plus a separate special exhibit in another wing that invites visitors to appreciate the country.

Georgia Department of Natural Resources reported that the 2026 bald eagle survey shows a strong population after checking nearly half of known nests, with an 89 percent success rate across regions and 170 young recorded.

Fewer flights due to weather did not hinder the trend toward recovery—highlighting successful conservation efforts.

Today, local organizers urge residents to celebrate Fourth of July sustainably by reducing fireworks pollution and food waste.

They recommend using public displays (or drone shows) and choosing reusable dishes while setting up recycling and compost bins at gatherings.

The Evans family from Matthews completed a seven-day, 95-mile kayaking journey on the Cartecay, Coosawattee & Oostanaula rivers during the Georgia Rivers Paddle Georgia event yesterday, raising funds and awareness to protect our local waterways.

CSRA residents should be cautious of the soaring temperatures this week that can cause heat exhaustion and heat stroke; experts advise seeking immediate medical help and cooling measures if symptoms such as heavy sweating and weakness occur.

Former NFL All-Pro LeRoy Irvin, a Glenn Hills High School standout and longtime Augusta football ambassador, died Wednesday at 68 after battling throat cancer.

Hickory Crawdads at Augusta GreenJackets

7:05-8:05 PM — SRP Park — Check for ticket prices — Watch local baseball as the Crawdads face off against the GreenJackets.

Peach State Summer Showcase

8 a.m. — Augusta Preparatory Day School — Competitive entry fee — Experience a high-energy weekend of youth basketball with teams from various divisions.

3rd Annual Bookbag Bash

9 AM – 12 PM — Bell Auditorium — Free entry — Kick off the school year with free supplies, fun music, and community resources for families.

Hickory Crawdads vs Augusta GreenJackets

2:05 – 3:05 PM — SRP Park — VIP tickets available — Experience the thrill of minor league baseball with top-notch amenities and entertainment.

Nike Peach Jam Basketball Tournament

July 14-19 — Riverview Park Activities Center — Admission TBA — Witness the pinnacle of grassroots basketball as top high school players compete for the championship.

On The Border - The Eagles Tribute Band

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Miller Theater — Ticket options available — Experience the classic hits of the Eagles performed live.

Abigail Lord Live Performance

Acoustic Set — Evening — Doc's Porchside — Cost TBA — Enjoy a night of live music featuring top hits from Country, Pop, and Rock.

National Treasure Screening

2-4 p.m. — Miller Theater — Free entry — Enjoy a nostalgic movie outing at the historic Miller Theater with a screening of National Treasure.

A Night of Soul Concert

8 p.m. — Miller Theater — Ticket info available — Experience a soulful evening of music from talented performers.