🌱 Weekend Shooting Was 'Targeted Attack' + Events Boost Local Economy

Hello all. I'm here with your Tuesday edition of the Augusta Patch newsletter. Keep reading to find out all the things you need to know about what's going on in town.

But first, your local weather:

• Tuesday: Showers and a heavier t-storm. High: 87 Low: 70.
• Wednesday: A couple of thunderstorms. High: 83 Low: 66.

🏘️ Looking to differentiate yourself from other real estate agents in Augusta? Partner with the Augusta Patch and gain access to a targeted, engaged audience through our premium newsletter sponsorships. Click here to learn more.

Here are the top three stories in Augusta today:

1. The mass shooting that occurred over the weekend on Sand Bar Ferry Road was a "targeted attack," according to the Richmond County Sheriff's Office. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Sheriff Richard Roundtree said the shooting involved members of two different motorcycle clubs, the Augusta-based Outcast Motorcycle Club and the Thug Riders, from out of town. He said the shooting was "retaliation" for an incident that occurred between the two groups in Florida but gave no further details. Two people died as a result of the shooting, and four others were injured. There were reportedly more than 100 shell casings found at the site of the shooting. (The Augusta Chronicle)
2. WRDW recently took a look at how events like the recent Augusta Air Show impact the local economy. They found that this month's events are expected to bring in more than 3,000 attendees and should generate over $1.4 million for the city. Bennish Brown, president and CEO of Destination Augusta, explained that events like the air show also help to keep people employed within the local tourism industry. Last weekend marked the first time the Thunderbirds have come to Augusta, and Brown said the expectation is that they will return. (WRDW)
3. The City of Augusta recently kicked off its 2023 Candlelight Music Series, and there are plenty more opportunities to enjoy the music! These weekly concerts take place at the Augusta Commons on Sunday evenings at 7:30 p.m. Upcoming acts include M-Pack Band and Song Band Upstate, and shows will continue through Sep. 3. Tickets are $10 each and free for children 12 and under. (Augusta, Georgia Government via Facebook)

Today and tomorrow in Augusta:

Tuesday, May 16

• Community Reiki Meditation And Healing Circle At 4P Studios 600 Broad Gallery (6:45 PM)
• Music Bingo At World Of Beer (7:00 PM)

Wednesday, May 17

• Kid's Club At Top Dawg Tavern (5:30 PM)
• Snack & Sip With All Equal Parts At Noble Jones (6:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• It's time to kick off Summer Reading with the Augusta-Richmond County Public Library System! On Saturday, Jun. 3, from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., you can enjoy hot dogs, shaved ice, a petting zoo, and more at Brookfield Park. (Augusta-Richmond County Public Library System via Facebook)
• Augusta Pride is seeking volunteers for the 2023 Pride Kickoff Carnival on Jun. 4, as well as their Pride Festival on Jun. 23-24. To learn more about volunteering, click here. (Augusta Pride via Facebook)
• Did you know there is an app that will send non-emergency reports to the city? The Augusta311 app is available on Android or Apple and is a great way to report issues like overgrown vegetation or abandoned vehicles. (Augusta, Georgia Government via Facebook)

You're officially in the loop for today! I'll catch up with you bright and early soon with your next update.

— 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.