Good morning, Augusta.

SRP Federal Credit Union employees have given back to the community by hosting a blood drive on July 23 at their administrative campus in partnership with Shepeard Community Blood Center that helped save up to 42 lives—while also donating school supplies and volunteering at back-to-school events to support nearly 900 local families.

Greater Young Zion Baptist Church held a back-to-school giveaway on Saturday in Augusta by offering school supplies, haircuts, and food—helping families cope with shortages.

Purvis Higgins, the chairman of deacons, said the church will continue its community support as long as it can.

The Graniteville Fire Department responded Friday just before midnight to an overnight machinery fire at Bridgestone in Graniteville—officials said the blaze was contained in one piece of equipment—no employees were injured.

First Watch, a breakfast, brunch and lunch restaurant, offers a menu with healthy, vegan and gluten-free options at 630 Crane Creek Dr. in Augusta; it opened two years ago in a shopping center near Sprouts Farmers Market—the restaurant is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and serves fresh juices alongside traditional favorites.

Grovetown Police Department is asking for help locating 66-year-old Ivelisse Lora—last seen at 10:30 p.m. at the McDonald’s on Horizon South Parkway wearing a sleeveless black shirt and beige shorts while carrying large grocery bags—and police say she may be staying at a hotel or motel in the CSRA.

Leadership Augusta announced that Dr. Katrina Hutchins and Ashley Whitaker will serve as co-chairs for the Youth Leadership Augusta Class of 2026 (they bring strong experience in leadership development and nonprofit work).

Applications for the program designed for rising juniors and seniors (with a deadline to apply on April 26th) are now open.

The Augusta Commission is seeking public input on the 2026 budget as city officials gather ideas before final approval by November 18.

City leaders will host meetings Monday at 6 p.m. at the Robert Howard Center (103 Diamond Lakes Way) and Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Warren Road Community Center (300 Warren Road) to discuss priorities.

On August 1, the GreenJackets defeated the Carolina Mudcats 12-4 as all nine hitters reached base and several newcomers made pro debuts; Jacob Shafer returned from the Injured List to pitch five strong innings+ earning his first win at home.

The victory marked their third straight win in the North Division and signaled Augusta’s strong home record with seven wins in the last ten games.

Augusta University golf teams will join the West Coast Conference for NCAA Division I play after winning three Southland titles as they prepare to face tougher teams like Pepperdine — a move that team leaders say will boost the program.

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.

Lilo and Stitch Movie Screening

2-5 p.m. — Miller Theater — General admission — Relive the magic of Lilo and Stitch at this beloved local movie palace.

TechNet Augusta 2025

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center — Registration required — A three-day conference fostering collaboration between military and industry professionals on cyber challenges.

Art of Words: Poets' Open Mic

5:30-7:45 p.m. — Aiken County Library — Free entry — Celebrate poetry with featured poet Tera Jackson and local talent in a friendly environment.

Rumours ATL - A Fleetwood Mac Tribute

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Miller Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting harmonies and nostalgia of Fleetwood Mac's timeless classics performed live.

Brunch Live Music with Blue Lava

11 a.m.-2 p.m. — Top Dawg Tavern — $10 Mimosa Carafes — Enjoy acoustic tunes from Blue Lava while savoring a delicious brunch.

Cody Bolden Music Live

9:30 p.m. — Dirty Boots Augusta — Check venue for entry cost — Enjoy soulful sounds inspired by Southern roots at this live music event.

Eats in the Streets Pickle Festival

11 a.m. - 9 p.m. — 101 Griffin St, Wrens, GA — Free entry — Enjoy a day of tangy delights with pickle dishes, contests, and live music.

More Than The Masters Podcast Live

3-6 p.m. — Ikonz Sportsbar & Grill — Free entry — Experience an engaging live podcast recording focused on golf with special guests and discussions.