Something new to us is always on its way every new day in our world. It can be a local headline news, breaking news, or weather. WJBF NewsChannel 6 informs you, our Augusta, Georgia and CSRA viewer. Top stories of the day are a combination of top stories which affect your community, your safety, and your lifestyle.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Across the CSRA
The weather topped the day’s news. As the team issued a severe thunderstorm warning. Heavy rain, lightning, and windy conditions have been reported in Richmond, Columbia, and Aiken counties.
Meteorologist Tim Strong warned the viewers to stay indoors. Also not drive through flooded roads, and keep an eye on live radar via their weather App.
Citizens should be ready for the loss of power and tie down outdoor loose items that will be tossed around by the wind.
Augusta University Increases Nursing Program
Education breaking news, Augusta University revealed the expansion of its College of Nursing by leaps and bounds. The university will admit 30% more students in the upcoming semester.
The expansion is the initial step in a multi-year plan to combat the shortage of nurses that is plaguing South Carolina and Georgia, said the university officials.
WJBF TV news anchor Ashley Jones talked to these aspiring nursing students, who are eagerly looking forward to seeing the program grow and serve future health care professionals.
Local Teacher Is State Educator of the Year
Breaking classroom news—Glenn Hills High teacher Mrs. Rebecca Carter is Georgia Educator of the Year!
Mrs. Carter, an American History teacher, was recognized for her non-traditional teaching methods and her contribution to increasing the school’s graduation rate.
The award ceremony took place today in Atlanta, and a profile of Mrs. Carter will be shown on WJBF’s 6 o’clock news tonight.
Richmond County Deputies Look into Armed Robbery
More seriously, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is looking into an armed robbery this morning on Wrightsboro Road at a gas station.
Security cameras apparently caught a masked person entering the store at about 3 a.m., stealing money at gunpoint. No one was hurt, and deputies want the public’s help.
WJBF needs all tips people have to call CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.
CSRA Prepares for Riverwalk Festival Annually
This weekend, the Riverwalk Festival returns to downtown Augusta once again. They caught up with some of the local entertainers and vendors. As they prepare for the festival that draws thousands every year.
Free entertainment consists of live music, food vendors, exhibits by local artists, and a fireworks display over the Savannah River are some of the highlights of the festivities. City officials stated that they would supply additional traffic control and security. In order to make the event safe for all families.
Good News: Dog Rescued After 2 Days Stuck in Drain Pipe
And in a positive news story, WJBF captured the rescue of a Columbia County lost dog. 3-year-old golden retriever Max was stuck for two days in a drain pipe when he was rescued in good shape by local firefighters.
Max is healthy and fine, his family says, and they’re calling rescuers heroes. This one brought a smile to a lot of faces in the CSRA.
North Augusta Expands Public Greenspaces
As a model community development, the city government of North Augusta recently began the development of its public park system expansion. A new walking path and picnic area are being built along the Savannah River to provide additional outdoor recreational activities to the community. Mayor Briton Williams described the city’s vision of building health and wellness while preserving natural beauty. The project will get underway next month with a spring grand opening.
Gas Prices Drop Across Region
Motorists get good news—Augusta and county gas prices declined an average of 15 cents per gallon this week, according to AAA Georgia. The lowest-priced gas stations were located on Gordon Highway and Washington Road. Analysts attribute the decline to a seasonal glut and decrease in crude oil prices. WJBF’s consumer reporter will discuss more money-saving ideas on tonight’s show.
New Cybersecurity Grant to Local Schools
And now, Columbia County School District announced it will get a $500,000 grant from the federal government to enhance its cybersecurity program. Dr. Steven Flynt announced at a press conference that the district would use the money to enhance security for online learning and safeguard student data. This comes on the heels of increased vulnerabilities due to cyberattacks nationwide on K-12 networks. WJBF will monitor how it’s being spent on school property.
New Boutique Hotel for Downtown Augusta
There is also economic development in downtown Augusta. City commissioners greenlit a new downtown high-end boutique hotel on Broad Street. It will have a rooftop restaurant and events center to draw visitors and business travelers. Business leaders believe the project will bring new energy into the district and draw pedestrians to adjacent restaurants and stores. Ground breaking is planned for later this year.
Fort Eisenhower Marks Military Appreciation Week
Fort Eisenhower was previously known as Fort Gordon. It commemorated Military Appreciation Week with a parade and family events. Troops and their families were treated to live music, food vendors, and lawn games. Community leaders weighed in on why it is important to honor military service in Augusta. It’s a city whose history is intertwined in its military community. WJBF’s military affairs reporter reported stories that started on the base throughout the week.
COVID-19 Booster Vaccine Clinics Now Available Across CSRA
Public health comes first. The Georgia Department of Public Health recently opened new pop-up clinics in Augusta and Aiken for new COVID-19 boosters. Appointments are encouraged. But walk-ins are welcome. Clinics are set up in schools, community centers, and pharmacies. WJBF’s health team wanted to remind viewers that vaccines are still free and available to everyone six months and up.
Harlem Renames Street in Honor of Hometown Hero
The city council in Harlem, GA officially named the street after hometown hero Staff Sgt. Michael Walters, who served time in Iraq and Afghanistan. A family of friends, in addition to local residents, were among the dedication ceremony along with a color guard and performance by the Harlem High School band. Walters’ family was deeply thankful to see veterans cared about on a daily basis by the community.
Evans High School Band to March during National Parade
Evans High School band will march during the 2025 National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C. It’s the school’s inaugural invitation to join the elite parade. Students and band directors reported feeling proud and honored to represent Georgia. Fundraising events are already scheduled to help pay for travel costs.
CSRA Traffic Reports and Roadwork Projects
WJBF also wrote about a number of roadwork projects that have the potential to impact daily commutes. Most delays are expected on I-520 at the Deans Bridge Road exit because of resurfacing. Conversely, the city of Grovetown is expanding intersections to minimize rush-hour traffic. WJBF’s traffic team recommends using GPS programs with real-time traffic reporting and planning in advance when driving in construction areas.
Augusta Animal Services Promotes Adopting Animals
Since shelters are at capacity, Augusta Animal Services is appealing to the citizens to adopt or accept foster animals. The organization is running an adoption campaign throughout the month with lower fees. WJBF reported on Bella, an older beagle, who has been in the shelter for more than 100 days. Adopters can shop on the web and schedule appointments directly on the shelter website.
Arts in the Heart Festival Starts This Weekend
Downtown Augusta is gearing up for the city’s Arts in the Heart Festival. It is teeming with music, food, and artwork by scores of various cultures. Broad Street will be home to more than 100 vendors and performers. It ranges from Jamaican curry and soul food to watercolor painting and homemade jewelry. Culture, diversity, and local artists lend themselves nicely to this festival. The website is happy to be a media sponsor of the festival.
Columbia County Library High-Tech Lab
The Columbia County Library opened a new state of the art teen lab today. The teen lab is designed for creative growth and computer savvy and features 3D printers, video editing programs, and virtual reality. Community teens can visit the lab to work on projects for school. They can also produce YouTube content, and play with technology. County officials, librarians, and dozens of eager students gathered to dedicate it.
Stay Informed Everywhere
This news channel keeps you informed. As it comes with live news, accurate weather forecasts, and balanced reporting to Augusta neighborhoods and the world in general. Whether your interest lies in watching television or being informed on your cell phone, WJBF has you covered.
You can stay up to date on its website or via their app, or Facebook and Twitter.
Final Thoughts
Whether it is breaking news or good news from within our community. This news channel delivers the stories that matter most to you. The day’s best news illustrates the challenges, the achievements, and the heart of the CSRA community.
Be in tomorrow for more local news—and in the meantime, stay safe, stay informed, and stay connected to WJBF.
