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Welcome back to Augusta Digest.
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🍕 Augusta's Oldest Family Restaurant, Since 1949
Tucked into the 500 block of Broad Street, Luigi's Restaurant has been feeding Augusta families for over 75 years. Founded by Greek immigrant Nicholas "Papou Nick" Ballas, the menu blends Italian classics with Greek heritage, from baked spaghetti and veal parmesan to a Greek chicken dish that regulars say is the best they've ever had. The warm, old-world atmosphere and multi-generational loyalty make this a true downtown institution.
Read more here.
📋 Charter Review Committee Wraps Town Halls with Push for City Manager, Ethics Board
The Gist: Augusta's Charter Review Committee held its third and final town hall Thursday at Julian Smith Casino. The proposed charter revisions, headed to the Georgia legislature, focus on establishing a city manager position, creating an independent ethics board, and strengthening audit oversight. Residents consistently pushed for these three changes across all three meetings.
Why It Matters: Augusta's government structure hasn't had a major overhaul in years. These proposals could fundamentally change how the city is managed, who holds power accountable, and how taxpayer money is tracked. The revisions now head to Atlanta for legislative action.
Read more here.
⚡ Energy Department Closes $26.5B Loan for Georgia and Alabama Energy Projects
The Gist: U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright announced a $26.5 billion loan package through the Department of Energy's Office of Energy Dominance Financing for energy projects in Georgia and Alabama. The deal is projected to deliver more than $7 billion in electricity cost savings to customers in both states.
Why It Matters: Energy costs directly hit Augusta residents and businesses. A $7 billion savings projection across the region could mean lower utility bills and more competitive rates for manufacturers and data centers considering the CSRA.
Read more here.
🚨 Blythe Care Home Owner Arrested on Felony Exploitation Charge
The Gist: Mona Atar, 42, owner of Savannah Square Personal Care Home in Blythe, was arrested after a Richmond County Sheriff's Office investigation into alleged financial exploitation and intimidation of elderly and disabled residents, including veterans. Deputies executed a search warrant after state inspectors were reportedly denied access. Adult Protective Services, the VA, Blythe PD, and the Georgia Department of Community Health assisted.
Why It Matters: This case spotlights the vulnerability of elderly and disabled adults in personal care homes. The multi-agency response shows how seriously the allegations are being taken, and Sheriff Brantley called protection of these residents a top priority.
Read more here.
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🎭 Mardi Gras Parade | Downtown Augusta | Augusta | 02/28 | More Floats, beads, and brass rolling through Broad Street. Bring the whole family.
🎵 Amy Grant | Miller Theater | Augusta | 02/28 | More A beloved voice in pop and gospel performs an intimate evening of hits and hymns.
🏃 3 Bridges 5K | Augusta Canal Levee Trail | Augusta | 03/01 | More Voted Augusta's best 5K. A scenic paved course crossing three bridges along the Savannah River.
🎤 Fat Tuesday Food & Music Festival | Augusta Common | Augusta | 03/01 | More Local food vendors, live music, and festive vibes close out Carnival season on the green.
⚾ Augusta Christian vs. Evans High School | SRP Park | North Augusta | 02/27 | More Friday night under the lights at one of the region's best minor-league ballparks.
🎸 ZZ Top | Bell Auditorium | Augusta | 03/22 | More The bearded legends bring "La Grange" and "Sharp Dressed Man" to Augusta. Tickets from $49.75.
🍀 St. Patrick's Day Bar Crawl | 917 Broad Street | Augusta | 03/15 | More Explore Augusta's best bars with drink specials, games, and green-themed festivities. $10 entry.
🍷 Friday Nights in Augusta: 30's Edition | TBA venue | Augusta | 02/28 | More A curated dinner-with-strangers experience for Augusta's young professional set.
🎯 Shamrock Shoot | Tactical Advantage at Fort Eisenhower | Augusta | 03/16 | More Shooting competitions for all skill levels in a fun, competitive setting. $25 entry.
🎨 WestoHUE: Westobou Annual Fundraiser | Westobou Gallery | Augusta | 03/27 | More Support local arts at Augusta's premier cultural fundraiser. Art, live music, and community.
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