Augusta, GA
Augusta National sees changes after damage caused by Hurricane Helene
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WTOC) – Hurricane Helene had major effects around the city of Augusta last September, and despite the perceived magic that Augusta National has to offer to the public eye, the grounds weren’t immune to the damage done around the city.
While the club never shared information publicly, reports from those close to the situation are that the course suffered severe tree loss. The grounds look pristine as ever, but those who know Augusta National can tell a difference. There are certain spots of brush you can see through that you weren’t able to before, as well as some overhanging trees and limbs that are no longer there.
As a course that’s built on forcing golfers to play specific types of shots, the loss of trees that have been in play for decades could change certain holes. Despite the noticeable effects from Helene, it’s still a challenge for the best in the world.
“From a tee-shot perspective, there are maybe a couple that are a little less visually intimidating,” said Rory McIlroy, who is searching to complete the career grand slam this week. “Thinking of a tee shot like 10, a little bit of that tree loss on that left side, your target is that TV tower down there at the bottom of the hill. You used to not be able to see that, and now you can see that pretty clearly. Visually, it doesn’t look like you have to turn the ball as much as you used to.”
“I think with the trees, you just get a different view,” said Collin Morikawa, who sits fourth in the Official World Golf Rankings. “The way this course is set up, it usually forces you to hit a shot. Most likely a tiny draw, a tiny fade. You can’t really work it as hard sometimes. But, you lose a few trees and it kind of plays a little bit differently.”
The first tee time of the 89th Masters is Thursday morning at 7:40.
Copyright 2025 WTOC. All rights reserved.
NJ apartment dwellers, renters have these options for help with rent
State and local officials say several programs are designed to help low and moderate-income households stay housed in the face of financial distress.
As rent prices continue to strain budgets, a new study is highlighting where Georgians can save the most by splitting housing costs.
According to a report from SmartAsset, some cities in Georgia offer major savings for renters who choose to live with a roommate.
Here’s what to know.
Where can you save the most in Georgia?
The study ranks Augusta as the top city in Georgia for roommate savings, and No. 6 in the country.
Renters there can save about 45% on monthly rent, or roughly $450 per month, by sharing an apartment.
Here’s how the costs compare in Augusta:
- One-bedroom rent: $1,000
- Two-bedroom rent: $1,100
- Estimated monthly savings with a roommate: $450
Why are roommate savings so high?
With rent prices rising, splitting costs has become one of the easiest ways to cut monthly expenses.
The study shows that sharing rent can significantly reduce housing costs, especially in cities where prices have climbed in recent years.
How does Georgia compare to the rest of the country?
Here’s the top 10 cities in the US for saving with a roomate:
- Cleveland, OH
- Baton Rouge, LA
- Jersey City, NJ
- Memphis, TN
- Boise, ID
- Augusta, GA
- New Haven, CT
- Chattanooga, TN
- Virginia Beach, VA
- Shreveport, LA
Methodology
The study analyzed 100 U.S. cities using rental data from March 2025 to March 2026 from Zumper, comparing one-bedroom rents to half the cost of two-bedroom apartments to estimate savings from sharing with a roommate.
For more information, visit smartasset.com/data-studies/roommate-savings-2026.
Vanessa Johns is the Trending Topics Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team Georgia. Email her at Vcountryman@gannett.com.
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.
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