Augusta, GA
Augusta National honors local veteran as hometown hero
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Augusta National honors hometown heroes in our community with free tickets to the Masters.
After nominations are considered, they honor EMS workers, police officers, teachers and veterans like Jerry Lyda who go above and beyond for their community.
Smiling ear to ear under the famous leaderboard at Augusta National is Jerry Lyda and his lifeline, Sailor.
“I still haven’t got it all hooked in yet. But I know, to me, it’s an honor. It really is to be appreciated that much,” said Lyda.
Lyda is the CEO of Veteran K-9 Solutions.
He says he’s still in disbelief Augusta National recognized him as their newest hometown hero for his work in rehabilitating canines from animal shelters to rehabilitate veterans.
“The dogs are just a piece of equipment. That’s all they are to most folks. To the veterans, they are a lifeline,” said Lyda.
On top of a one-way ticket to Amen Corner, the Community Foundation, the non-profit arm of Augusta National, gave him a grant for more than $13,000 to continue his mission of saving two lives at one time.
“That covers a lot of things as far as the upkeep of the dog, the food, the veterinarian care and it covers the veteran for the equipment he may need for the dog — the vest, the leash, the collar,” said Lyda.
The grant is helping to expand the impact to other cities, too.
Over the last several years they have trained over 30 dogs each year. This year, they are looking to beat the record with 80 dogs.
“We’ve got a girl that trains with us. She’s Air Force, active duty. She’s gone to San Antonio, and she’s going to open one of our sister companies there. We got another gentleman in Myrtle Beach wanting to do that. So, we’ll be in three different places,” said Lyda.
And for that, he is grateful.
“All these things that the Lord is putting on me, it’s all him. It’s not me. It’s all him,” said Lyda.
Copyright 2024 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Families had the chance to sharpen their money skills at a financial literacy event hosted by local nonprofit Crown Her Mentoring at the Bernie Ward Community Center.
The free event offered resources for all ages, from kids learning the basics to adults planning for their financial future.
Attendees could sit in sessions about budgeting, credit, opening banking accounts and insurance options.
Organizers said the event was designed to make financial education accessible during Financial Literacy Month.
“People need to understand the importance of a checking account, a savings account—how to manage your money. How to invest your money. People need to learn about life insurance,” said Torrecka Davis, organizer.
Crown Her Mentoring will host a mental health awareness event on May 23. Open enrollment for new mentees will begin on May 10.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Shoppers in Augusta will soon lose a longtime retail option, as Lane Bryant’s store inside Augusta Mall is set to close for good this weekend.
Employees at Lane Bryant inside Augusta Mall confirmed that the store will permanently close starting Sunday, April 19.
After the closure, the nearest Lane Bryant location for customers will be in Lexington.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
With deepest and heartfelt sympathy, G. L. Brightharp & Sons announces the transition of Mr. Willie J. Tanksley who entered into rest April 18, 2026.
Mr. Tanksley, a native of Richmond County, was a 1985 graduate of the Academy of Richmond County. He was a member of Greater Young Zion Baptist Church where he served in the Brotherhood Ministry.
Survivors include his wife, Sabrina Tanksley; two daughters, Ashley Tanksley and Taylor Tanksley; siblings, Elise Tanksley of Augusta, GA, Wilhelmina Roland of Atlanta, GA, Terry Tanksley, Tommy Tanksley, Watler Tanksley and Elder Claude (Kimberly) Tanksley all of Augusta, GA; an aunt, Frances Tate; an uncle, James Tanksley; mother-in-law, Sandra Harrison of Beech Island, SC; father-in-law, Jimmy (Elnora) Bing; three sisters-in-law, Fonda Rainey, Nicole Harrison and Nina Bing; a brother-in-law, Eric Bing; a host of nieces , nephews, along with other loving relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Greater Young Zion Baptist Church with the Rev. William A. Blount officiating. Interment will follow at Walker Memorial Park. Viewing will be held from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM Monday at the funeral home.
The family will not be receiving visitors at the home. We ask that you continue to pray for them during this time.
Professional Services are under the compassionate care of G. L. Brightharp & Sons Mortuary-North Augusta.
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