Augusta, GA
Augusta nonprofits show love to those throughout the city
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Spreading love through acts of kindness is what many nonprofits do throughout the area.
On Wednesday, some nonprofits wanted to make sure no matter your situation, you feel loved.
“Our vision is to bring life to the city and show people love and encouragement,” said Erik Sowder, Director of Operations for Project Life.
That motto is everywhere at their building off of Gordon Highway.
They made a statement of love by having everyone who stopped by on Valentine’s Day put a lock on their fence.
“A lock is something that you value, something you want to protect, something you want to keep safe,” said Sowder.
In unison, everyone locked their locks at the same time shouting “We love our city.”
They serve the community on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Also in Augusta…
The nonprofit Corazon Bonito hit the road for the holiday, choosing to deliver 150-200 roses to those in hospice care.
“I think everyone deserves to feel the love and it’s nice to receive flowers and and feel special even if you’re going through a tough time. Flowers can always bring a smile to your face,” said Patty Galvin.
She also knows love should be shown no matter the day of the week, which is why she serves.
“Valentine’s Day is dedicated to love and friendship, but I think we shouldn’t wait until it’s a special day to tell our loved ones that we love and appreciate them,” she said.
Copyright 2024 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
Lock and Dam Park closing to public for a month in Augusta
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The city of Augusta announced a temporary closure of New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam Park.
Closure of the park at 2105 Lock and Dam Road will allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to repair the lock and dam structure.
The park will be closed from March 4 to April 7.
All areas of the park will be closed.
However, the Baurle Boat Ramp will remain open and accessible to the public for fishing and boating activities.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
Augusta 911 call center earns statewide honor
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The Augusta 911 center has been named 2025 Communications Center of the Year at the Georgia Emergency Communications Conference in Athens.
The award recognizes excellence in public safety communications, innovation, leadership and service.
The award recognizes a center that demonstrates strong performance in emergency response coordination, training, technology and community engagement.
The Augusta center was selected among agencies statewide for its consistent service, professional standards and coordination with public safety partners.
“This recognition reflects the work our team does every single day,” said Daniel R. Dunlap, 911 director. “Our communications officers are the first point of contact during some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life. They provide reassurance, direction and critical coordination until help arrives. I am incredibly proud of the dedication and strength they show.”
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
Popn’ Off Gourmet Popcorn opens on Broad Street in Augusta
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – A new gourmet popcorn shop has opened on Broad Street, bringing a Chicago-style twist to downtown Augusta.
Popn’ Off Gourmet Popcorn and Nuts, located at 716 Broad Street next to the Miller Theater, opened late last year. Owner Sheila Jones moved to Augusta from Chicago, where she said gourmet popcorn has a strong following.
“I’m from Chicago where gourmet popcorn is kind of a big deal,” Jones said.
Specialty flavors made in house
The shop offers specialty flavors including caramel, strawberry drizzle, peppermint, Oreo, green apple, and peanut butter — all made in house. Jones said the experience starts before customers even reach the counter.
“The smell is part of the experience. Green apple, strawberry, strawberry drizzle with chocolate. We have a new peanut butter flavor I just did,” Jones said.
A business built for family
Jones said her move to Augusta and her decision to open the business were driven by her son, who is on the autism spectrum. She said she believed he would be more comfortable in Augusta and wanted to build something that would benefit him long-term.
“I wanted him to have something when he gets older. He has a job already if he wants one. He already has a business,” Jones said.

Jones said starting the business has been harder than she expected. She handles most operations herself, with some help from family. She said the purpose behind the shop keeps her motivated.
“Coming into this every day is fulfilling because I built it. I’m building it and I just wanna see how high we’ll go,” Jones said.
Popn’ Off Gourmet Popcorn and Nuts is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The shop is also holding a pop-up Saturday at noon on Gordon Highway.
Here’s a link to their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584084467886#
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
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