🌱 Two Local Anglers Win Big + 11 Augustans Plead Guilty To Offenses

Hello all. I'm back in your inbox this spring morning to walk you through the most important things happening locally.

But first, your local weather:

• Tuesday: A t-storm in the afternoon. High: 89 Low: 67.
• Wednesday: Pleasant with clouds and sun. High: 84 Low: 63.

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Here are the top three stories in Augusta today:

1. With the increasing number of mass shootings, schools are conducting more active shooter drills, but studies show that some children are reporting higher levels of anxiety and depression after these drills. Dr. Dale Peeples, a child psychiatrist at Augusta University, explained that the shootings and the preparation measures can be mentally challenging for kids. Although older kids are less affected, younger children experience greater fear during the drills. (WJBF-TV)
2. At least 20 defendants – 11 from Augusta – pleaded guilty to federal offenses, including illegal possession of guns, and were either sentenced to federal prison or are awaiting further proceedings. The cases were investigated as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, which aims to reduce violent crime by targeting convicted felons who illegally carry guns. This project was carried out in partnership with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the FBI. Illegal firearms offenses carry a statutory penalty of up to 15 years in prison with no parole in the federal system. (WJBF-TV)
3. The Clarks Hill Classic, a regional bass fishing competition held in Columbia County, brought in money for two local anglers. Best friends Dustin Williamson and Hunter Temples, both from South Carolina and some of the youngest competitors this year, walked away with $10,000 each. Even though the Clarks Hill Classic has only been active for three years, after this year's competition, $30,000 in scholarships were awarded to high school anglers in the area. (WRDW)

Today and tomorrow in Augusta:

Tuesday, May 9

• Puddle Ducks: Kids & Caregivers Club At Phinizy Swamp Nature Park (10:00 AM)
• Taste Testing Tuesday At Augusta Municipal Building (1:00 PM)
• Trivia Tuesdays At Laziza Mediterranean Grill (6:00 PM)

Wednesday, May 10

• Wacky Wednesday Storytime At Barnes And Noble, Augusta Mall (10:00 AM)
• Music Bingo! At Vance's Bakery Bar (8:00 PM)

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From my notebook:

• As part of Drinking Water Week 2023 from May 7-13, Augusta Utilities hosted a few events and activities on May 8, including water trivia, prizes, swag, AUD information, and much more. (Augusta, Georgia Government via Facebook)
• Save the dates: The Fireworks Paddle, presented by Two Dudes and Boat Kayak Rentals and Tours, will begin on May 13 for select Saturday nights throughout the summer and is an epic evening that over 1,100 paddlers have experienced! The two-hour paddle leaves the 5th Street Marina at 7:45 p.m. and anchors you outside of SRP Park to watch 15 minutes of Augusta GreenJackets fireworks. (Visit Augusta)
• Reminder: As part of the ongoing TIA downtown project construction, 6th Street will be closed to traffic between Greene Street and Watkins Street until Wednesday, May 10. Detours will be in place. (Augusta, Georgia Government via Facebook)

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Featured events:

• Taxes in Retirement Seminar on May 11th and 12th at Jeff Maxwell Branch Library (May 11)

Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Tuesday. I'll see you soon!

— Michelle Paul

About me: Michelle Paul is a Utah-based writer and photographer with a professional background in content management and registered nursing. When not working on projects ranging from photo editing to copywriting, they enjoy traveling, video games, and expanding their skills.