Good morning, Augusta.

Local animal shelters are seeing an increase in animals coming through their doors and are asking for help—officials say the rise in litters is stretching shelter resources.

Family friend Blake Bibbins said that the 3rd annual Chip-It 4 Hibbitts Memorial Golf Tournament will honor late teen Nathan Hibbitts, who died from an enlarged heart, when it is held on August 30 at Applewood Golf Course in Keysville.

Proceeds will fund local student scholarships and 120 participants in 30 teams will compete—teams must sign up by August 22.

Spirit Halloween opened this week at 3435 Wrightsboro Rd in Augusta in a space that used to be Joann Fabrics — the store offers new costumes featuring licensed characters from hits like Superman, Deadpool and Wolverine.

The retailer also displays interactive animatronics in a themed area that mimics a subway station and provides a 10% military discount.

Breakwater, in partnership with BR Investments, acquired the historic I.M.

Pei-designed Ramada Hotel in downtown Augusta and will renovate the 175-room property into a premium soft-branded hotel—led by The Gettys Group, Rabun Architects and an award-winning restaurateur—to create a dynamic destination on Broad Street.

Deputies chased Amber Nelson in a stolen car across Richmond and Columbia counties on Wednesday morning and ended the pursuit at a busy gas station near the county line—she fled on foot before being quickly arrested.

United Way of the CSRA completed its Stuff the Bus drive by collecting 34,273 school supplies valued at $141,480, a 23% increase from last year.

The supplies will go to thousands of students in Richmond, Columbia, Burke, and Screven Counties—supported by 28 local companies and 71 volunteers who contributed 176 hours.

The Richmond County School System held a transportation job fair last Wednesday to fill 41 bus driver positions and other roles such as mechanics and dispatchers.

HR director Kenneth Johnson Jr. said the event aimed to keep students safe by offering support for those without a CDL—helping them learn and qualify for bus driving.

The city of Augusta suspended its Emergency Rental Assistance program indefinitely—citing high demand and federal funding cuts.

It said no plans exist to restart the program and new housing assistance opportunities will be shared when available.

A report from the Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General says Augusta VA is facing severe staffing shortages amid nationwide cuts and union terminations—officials worry that the shortage may delay veteran care.

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.

WWE NXT Live Show

7-8:30 p.m. — Bell Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling matches featuring your favorite WWE NXT superstars live in action.