Good morning, Augusta.

A Hephzibah resident won $1 million with a scratch-off ticket from the Georgia lottery, marking a major win for local players.

The win was reported on July 15th (it is among the latest lottery successes in the CSRA).

Intellisystems announced it hired Kristin Cato as Marketing Director; she is an Augusta native with over ten years of experience from M3 Agency—where she led both digital and traditional marketing campaigns.

Her role will build the company brand and help support local clients in Georgia and South Carolina—continuing the firm's growth.

Jeffrey Keenan has been named the inaugural assistant vice president for Student Affairs Facilities at Augusta University and will start his new role on July 28.

He brings 21 years of U.S. Army service and will lead Housing and Residence Life as well as the Maxwell Theatre — reporting to Scott Wallace as part of the Build the Bench initiative.

Boys & Girls Clubs in the CSRA may close as over $200 million in federal funds remain frozen due to concerns over political misuse, putting after-school support for 6,000 kids at risk with school starting soon—Georgia lawmakers urge Gov. Brian Kemp to act.

Today, the Georgia Public Service Commission approved Georgia Power’s 2025 Integrated Resource Plan that sets a long-term strategy for transmission upgrades, renewable energy procurements and power plant enhancements to meet growing customer demand.

The plan details quarterly filings and scheduled investments—ensuring reliable and resilient service for Georgia’s future energy needs.

Mayor Garnett Johnson's chief of staff, Jasmine Sims, filed a grievance with HR on June 25th after he sent her home on June 24th without explanation, a move she said created a hostile work environment.

She has requested a formal inquiry into why she was denied access to her office (document obtained by the Augusta Press) and measures to improve the workplace (the grievance details her ongoing stress).

Former Westside guard Dontrell Jackson from Cross Creek is making his second appearance at Peach Jam this week and is teaming up with longtime friend Jordan Rouse from North Augusta—both have played together at Jet Academy since second grade.

Their participation highlights local talent poised to make an impact in this high-profile event.

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.

FREE Sundays at The Morris

12-5 p.m. — Morris Museum of Art — Free entry — Enjoy a cultural experience at Augusta's art museum on this special free Sunday event.

Free Sundays at The Morris

12-5 p.m. — Morris Museum of Art — Free entry — Enjoy art and culture at no cost thanks to community sponsorship.

PokeKon Fest

10 AM – 5 PM — Columbia County Exhibition Center — $20 — Discover the ultimate gathering for Pokemon collectors and fans of all genres at this vibrant one-day convention.

Jammin' — A Night of Reggae

7-8:30 p.m. — Miller Theater — VIP tickets available — Experience the spirit of reggae with The Legendary Wailers and Terence Young Project for a night of celebration and unity.