Good morning, Augusta.

Goodwill of Middle Georgia & the CSRA is hosting a Thrift Week Passport Challenge from Sunday, Aug.

16 to Sunday, Aug. 23 to honor National Thrift Shop Day and support local skills training as shoppers collect stickers at multiple stores for a chance to win a $100 gift card.

A local nonprofit is converting a donated box truck into a mobile laundry facility for homeless residents and is asking community members for donations to fund the project.

The Salvation Army of Augusta is teaming with Bradley’s BBQ in an August pajama drive to collect needed pajamas and underwear for guests at Center of Hope (including many women and children).

Donations are accepted at Bradley’s BBQ on 1209 Broad Street, the Center of Hope, the Kroc Center or any Salvation Army Family Store.

Lakeside High School opened a new 2,130-seat gymnasium this weekend, featuring a new court and overhead scoreboard for the Panthers as they prepare for volleyball season.

The facility is part of a 10-year district upgrade program.

An educator and a tax official have qualified to run for the Richmond County School Board.

They will compete in an upcoming election to lead the school system next year + more candidate details are expected soon.

Fire service leaders will meet at the 2026 Georgia Fire Service Conference at the Augusta Marriott Convention Center Aug.

24-29. Hosted by the Georgia State Firefighters Association and the Augusta Fire Department, the event will offer workshops and panels to boost training and safety — strengthening community response.

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office will host its Badges & BBQ on Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. at Diamond Lakes Park Pavilions 3 and 4 (4335 Windsor Spring Road) to offer food, drinks and bounce houses while deputies connect with residents.

On Monday afternoon, the Board of Zoning Appeals approved five variance requests for Habitat for Humanity in District 1 (Olde Town and Harrisburg) to reduce setback and lot area requirements for new homes and approved a reduced setback for a RaceTrac gas station while postponing a townhome variance to September.

Health officials warn that dangerously high temperatures are settling in the CSRA and urge residents (including those in Augusta) to stay indoors and drink water to avoid heat-related issues.

Officials stress caution as the heat wave continues.

Georgia football is ranked No. 3 in the AP preseason poll and is one of nine SEC teams in the top 25.

The Bulldogs will open the season on Sept. 5 against Tennessee State at Sanford Stadium.