Good morning, Augusta.

Local officials invite residents to share their ideas on Hotel Aiken renovations during public meetings next week.

The sessions will guide plans for updates to the historic hotel — helping ensure the changes meet community needs.

After Hurricane Helene caused devastating damage, local nonprofits and volunteers stepped in to deliver food, water and shelter to neighbors.

The Salvation Army is testing better shelter programs and Golden Harvest Food Bank is strengthening its emergency plans—aiming to keep Augusta prepared for future storms.

On Wednesday, a celebration marked the First Melt at the new Aurubis Richmond multi-metal recycling plant on Mike Padgett Highway as it began recycling metals like copper, nickel, tin and zinc—Congressman Rick Allen and CEO Dr. Toralf Hagg said it will support U.S. energy and defense projects—part of an $800 million investment in the community.

At Tuesday night's Columbia County Board of Education meeting, officials presented an updated special education program and discussed procedures for handling parent complaints—some board members voiced concerns that feedback from parents was not reaching the appropriate district personnel. Blue Ridge Elementary received praise for its performance under the Inspire campaign while the board agreed that a public forum on complaints will be hosted in the future.

The Department of Veterans Affairs announced on Wednesday that it awarded over $32M in grants to seven Georgia organizations to help veterans facing homelessness.

The funds—supporting housing, health care, financial planning, childcare and transportation—will be used during fiscal year 2026.

The Georgia Department of Public Health confirmed a case of WestNile in Richmond County.

The department sprayed the area with chemicals — a step taken to kill adult mosquitoes and prevent the virus from spreading further.

A local cancer support group hosted a spa day for cancer patients and survivors, offering relaxation, resources — and a monthly safe space for sharing experiences during Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month.

Augusta University's Georgia Cancer Center invites faculty and staff to join Team Jaguar for PaceDay 2025 on Oct.

5 at Augusta Common to support cancer research with a bike ride and new 5K run/walk. The event—featuring spin class sessions on stationary bikes—will turn donations into research funding to boost innovative cancer treatments.

On Saturday night, Sanford Stadium will shine brighter when Alabama visits for a Top-20 matchup—fans will get a light-up wristband to join the stadium’s display.

UGA will add this effect to the tradition of raising cellphone flashlights in the fourth quarter—enhancing the interactive game experience.

Augusta Symphony - Triumphant Beginnings

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Miller Theater — $19 to $82 — Experience a triumphant opening night with orchestral masterpieces featuring guest artist Hyeok Kwon on cello.

Reed Timmer: Storm Chaser Extraordinaire

7:30-9 p.m. — Miller Theater — Ticket prices may apply — Experience the thrill of storm chasing with America's most famous meteorologist and learn about his groundbreaking research.

IRONMAN 70.3 Augusta

4 AM – 5 PM — Augusta Common — Participate in a challenging middle-distance triathlon event in a scenic coastal city.

Stick To Your Guns - Tour 2025

6-9 p.m. — Grantski Records — Tickets starting at $72 — Experience an unforgettable performance by Stick To Your Guns in Augusta, GA.

Wheatus Concert

7-10 p.m. — Sacred Heart Cultural Center — Ticket info not provided — Relive the nostalgia with Wheatus performing their classic 'Teenage Dirtbag'.

Lyle Lovett and His Acoustic Group Live

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Bell Auditorium — Ticket info not provided — Experience the stripped-down brilliance and storytelling charm of Lyle Lovett in an acoustic setting.

Tasha Page-Lockhart Concert

7-11 p.m. — Bell Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful sounds of contemporary gospel artist Tasha Page-Lockhart live.

Augusta Symphony: The Music of Tony Bennett

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Miller Theater — $50 to $105 — Experience a spectacular celebration of Tony Bennett’s timeless music and captivating performances.

Women of Rock and Soul

7:30-9 p.m. — Imperial Theatre — Tickets available — Celebrate the powerful impact women have had on music across genres like Jazz, Blues, and Soul.

Bethel Music Night of Worship

7-8:30 p.m. — Miller Theater — $28.65 to $93.65 — Experience a night of worship and ministry in a sacred space of unity and transformation.