Good morning, Augusta.

News 12 partnered with nonprofit Grant Me Hope (which helps older foster children find permanent homes) on Dec.

30 to bring new family opportunities to children in need.

Aloka, a four-year-old Indian Pariah called Peace Dog, walked with monks as the 120-day Walk-for-Peace continues across Georgia.

Locals and travelers spotted him along highways and sidewalks while the cross-state journey covers about 2,300 miles.

The completed 'Bird Walk' art installation at Phinizy Center & Nature Park shows stenciled herons and egrets at the entrance to the Cattail Trail.

Created by Heather Dunaway and Zoe Beard-Ortiz, the work is available for viewing during park hours.

According to a Dec. 30 report, IMDb named Georgia actor Lexi Minetree (set to star in a 2026 Prime Video series) and Atlanta-based Tyriq Withers as rising stars to watch, highlighting the state’s growing talent footprint.

An Augusta resident claimed a $1 million scratch-off win yesterday at Fuel Express on Peach Orchard Road.

The Georgia Lottery announced two winners from the ticket sales, with the other win coming in Canton.

Two WARN notices from Georgia companies project 74 upcoming job losses.

Railcrew Xpress's contract with CSX is canceled, cutting eight jobs in Augusta (and five in Fitzgerald, 10 in Savannah, and three in Thomasville), while the Gainesville vocational center will lay off 19 employees with no reason given.

Fire officials said that Tuesday a three-acre brush fire near 230 Gustav Court in North Augusta damaged fences while dry weather and upcoming New Year fireworks may spark more fires in the area.

Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King warned that fire risks remain high during New Year celebrations today (with fireworks and outdoor activities adding danger) and first responders stand ready to act.

Georgia’s Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner warned residents to handle fireworks carefully today because windy conditions may send sparks toward dry leaves and pine trees — he also advised pet owners to bring animals indoors to avoid fright.

Georgia junior football receiver Zachariah Branch, who transferred from USC, is four catches shy of a record after he helped the Bulldogs win the Sugar Bowl quarterfinal against Ole Miss and will soon face the Rebels again.

The Patch, the re-envisioned Augusta Municipal Golf Course located near Wrightsboro and Damascus roads, is on track to finish its clubhouse around New Year's as it prepares to open in spring during Masters week and is hiring for several positions.

KPOP WARRIORS Live Show

6:30-8 p.m. — Columbia County Exhibition Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a world-class show full of K-Pop music, stunning choreography, and vibrant costumes.

K-POP GOLDEN SHOW

3-7 p.m. — Warren Road Community Center — Family-friendly event — Dance and sing along to your favorite K-Pop hits and enjoy dazzling performances.

Winter Blast Pickleball Tournament

All day — Dink'd Pickleball — Entry fee varies — Engage in thrilling matches at this exciting tournament in Augusta.

Winter Blast Pickleball Tournament

Jan 23-25 — Dink'd Pickleball — Entry fee required — Compete in a thrilling pickleball tournament in Augusta's premier indoor facility.