Good morning, Augusta.

The Columbia County Chamber honored ADP with the Patriot Award at its Military Appreciation Executive Luncheon on June 24 to recognize its support for military personnel and families; at the event, Dr. Tom Clark (Ret.) announced that the region was named a 2026 Great American Defense Community of Excellence.

Nacho Mama's, a downtown staple for 30 years, remains busy serving creative Mexican food at its Broad Street location; owner Barry Blackston said the restaurant's simple, consistent menu keeps fans returning despite challenges such as Hurricane Helene, the COVID outbreak, and ongoing downtown reconstruction.

Textron plans to spin off its Augusta-based industrial segment, which includes E-Z-GO golf carts, from its aerospace and defense operations by the end of 2027.

The company will explore a sale or tax-free separation while creating a new business to focus on its defense brands.

The 2026 Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival will take place Sept.

18-20 at Augusta Exchange Club Fairgrounds. The 40-year celebration (One Big Festival to Support One Small Non-Profit) will offer art, music, and food, with badges on sale mid-July.

Community leaders, historians and performers will gather this month in Augusta to mark 150 years since the Hamburg Massacre — a commemoration to honor victims and preserve an important chapter in our region's past.

More than 60 students took part in a free weeklong coding camp at Augusta University’s School of Computer and Cyber Sciences where they learned coding, robotics, cybersecurity, and AI today via hands-on activities; college students & alumni served as mentors to help them explore technology and creative problem solving.

Augusta Technical College students earned four medals at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference held June 1–5 in Atlanta (winning awards in graphic imaging, video production, and culinary arts).

Their lead advisor earned top technical educator recognition, highlighting the college's role in training Georgia's workforce.

Recent rainfall eased drought conditions and reduced wildfire risk in some areas, yet counties from Valdosta to Augusta remain in severe dry conditions as cleanup of Hurricane Helene debris continues; experts warn a lack of rain in two weeks may return drought quickly (climate changes add to this trend).

Yesterday, the Georgia Department of Agriculture captured 859 yellow-legged hornets and eradicated 43 nests in southeast counties, urging residents to report sightings via the online survey (survey123.arcgis.com) and to call licensed pest professionals rather than disturb nests.

Officials said the invasive species threatens local bees and crops.

Camp Joint Venture offers a full camp experience for children with rheumatic diseases — conditions that affect joints, muscles and bones.

Program details and dates will be announced soon.

On July 5, AJ Smith-Shawver pitched four scoreless innings and threw a 100 mph fastball as the GreenJackets beat the Salem RidgeYaks 4-1 to split the series; Kade Woods earned his first relief win to help secure the score.

The team prepares for six more games next week.

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.