Augusta Rec & Parks Insider is the official blog of the Augusta Recreation & Parks Department, dedicated to keeping the community informed about parks, programs, and events in Augusta, GA. Stay connected with updates, stories, and ways to get involved in making our city more active and vibrant!
Spring is in the air, and that means it’s time for fun-filled events, exciting activities, and plenty of opportunities to get involved with the community! April is shaping up to be an action-packed month, and Recreation & Parks has an amazing lineup of Easter celebrations, pickleball games, and wellness fairs that you won’t want to miss.
Mark your calendars and gather your friends and family—here’s what’s happening this month!
🐰 Easter Eggstravaganza!
Get ready to hop into the Easter spirit with egg hunts and festivals happening across the city. Whether you’re on the lookout for colorful eggs or just want to enjoy some festive fun, there’s an event for everyone!
Saturday, April 12: 🥚 Easter Egg Extravaganza – Bernie Ward Community Center (1 PM – 3 PM) 🥚 Perry Broadcasting Easter Egg Hunt – May Park Community Center (11 AM)
Saturday, April 19: 🐣 Easter Egg Hunt – Warren Road Community Center (2 PM – 5 PM) 🐣 Easter Egg Hunt – Carrie J. Mays Family Life Center (12 PM – 2 PM) 🐣 Easter Festival – Sand Hills Community Center (12 PM – 2 PM) 🐣 Easter Eggstravaganza 2025 – Henry H. Brigham Community Center (11 AM – 2 PM)
🏓 April is for Pickleball!
Did you know April is National Pickleball Month? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, come join the fun with these special events:
🏓 Dink All Day – Warren Road Community Center (Thursday, April 10, 10 AM – 6 PM) 🏓 National Pickleball Month Event – May Park (Saturday, April 19, 12 PM – 4 PM) 🏓 Pickleball Open Play Day – Bernie Ward Community Center (Tuesday, April 29, 10 AM – 2 PM)
💙 Community & Wellness Events
April isn’t just about Easter and pickleball—it’s also a time to focus on health, wellness, and giving back! Check out these upcoming events:
🌿 Serenity Resource Fair – May Park (Thursday, April 24, 10 AM – 2 PM) 🎡 Spring Health & Wellness Carnival – Bernie Ward Community Center (Saturday, April 26, 10 AM – 2 PM) 🚿 Project Refresh – May Park (Wednesday, April 30, 9 AM – 2 PM)
With so many amazing events happening this April, there’s no excuse to stay indoors! Gather your family and friends, get active, and enjoy all the fun and excitement the community has to offer. We can’t wait to see you there!
For more information and updates, stay tuned—there’s always more to come! 🚀
Augusta, Georgia, is known worldwide as the home of the Masters Tournament, but beyond the fairways and greens lies a rich history of African American caddies whose contributions shaped the game in ways often overlooked. For generations, Black caddies played an integral role in Augusta’s golfing legacy, serving as expert guides for some of the sport’s greatest players while forging a strong cultural identity within the Sand Hills neighborhood.
The Unseen Champions of Augusta’s Golf Legacy
During the early days of the Masters Tournament, caddies weren’t just bag carriers—they were strategists, mentors, and essential figures in a player’s success. These men possessed unmatched knowledge of Augusta National Golf Club’s layout, using their insight to navigate the course’s tricky greens and unpredictable slopes.
Some of the most celebrated African American caddies included:
Willie “Cemetery” Perteet – Known for his calm demeanor and sharp course knowledge, he worked with multiple golfers at Augusta National.
Willie Peterson, Jr. – The trusted caddie for Jack Nicklaus, who won five Masters titles with Peterson by his side.
Carl Jackson – A record-setting caddie who worked 54 Masters Tournaments and helped Ben Crenshaw to victory in 1984 and 1995.
Edwin B. McCoy, Jr. – A legendary figure in Augusta’s caddie history, guiding several players to success.
Roosevelt Smalley, Sr. – Another icon whose contributions helped elevate the role of Black caddies in professional golf.
These men, among many others, transformed caddying into an art form, elevating their roles beyond mere assistants to indispensable figures in golf’s most prestigious tournaments.
The Sand Hills Community: A Historic Hub
Many of these legendary caddies hailed from Augusta’s Sand Hills neighborhood, an area that became a hub for Black caddies due to its proximity to Augusta National and the Augusta Country Club. The Sand Hills community nurtured generations of young men who, with mentorship from seasoned caddies, learned the skills necessary to excel in the sport. This neighborhood wasn’t just a place of residence; it was a cultural foundation for Augusta’s golfing traditions, where knowledge was passed down, and a sense of pride in caddie excellence was instilled.
Commemorating Their Legacy: The Black Caddies Sculpture Unveiling
To honor the contributions of these remarkable men, the Black Caddies Sculpture will be unveiled at the Sand Hills Community Center on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 3 PM. This commemorative piece, created by Ed Durant and Baruti Tucker, stands as a tribute to the caddies who shaped Augusta’s golf history. Inspired by images of legendary caddies such as William Stokes, Willie Peterson, Jr., Edwin B. McCoy, Jr., Jariah Beard, Sr., Carl Jackson, and Roosevelt Smalley, Sr., the sculpture immortalizes their legacy in a way that ensures their stories live on.
The unveiling ceremony will feature reflections from golf historians, former caddies, and community leaders, along with a keynote speech by Garreth Carpenter, the grandnephew of Masters Champion Caddy E.B. McCoy, Jr. The event will be followed by a reception, where attendees can further engage with the history and impact of Augusta’s African American caddies.
A Call to the Community
The unveiling of the Black Caddies Sculpture is more than just an event—it is a moment of recognition, appreciation, and historical preservation. We invite all members of the Augusta community to join us in celebrating these unsung heroes. Their stories, sacrifices, and contributions deserve to be remembered and honored. This sculpture not only cements their place in golf history but also serves as an inspiration for future generations.
Mark your calendars for April 3, 2025, at 3 PM at the Sand Hills Community Center, and be part of this historic moment as Augusta pays tribute to the Black caddies who helped shape the game of golf.
After months of careful assessment and restoration following Hurricane Helene, Augusta’s historic cemeteries—Magnolia, Cedar Grove, and West View—are finally reopening to the public. These cemeteries are not just resting places but living testaments to the city’s rich and diverse history. While damage from fallen trees, flooding, and structural instability required extensive work, Augusta officials have put together a phased reopening plan that prioritizes both safety and accessibility.
If you have been waiting to visit a loved one’s grave, the city welcomes you back with open arms. However, those interested in exploring these historic grounds for educational or sightseeing purposes are encouraged to wait until the full reopening in April, allowing families to have priority access during the initial phase.
Phased Reopening Schedule
Since safety remains a top priority, the reopening will happen in stages, allowing officials to manage visitor flow while keeping restricted areas off-limits:
March 26-28, 2025 (Initial Reopening): Cemeteries will be open for limited hours on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday—8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
March 31, 2025 (Expanded Hours): Cemeteries will open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Weekend visits will be available by appointment only on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon.
April 7, 2025 (Full Reopening): Normal access will resume, though visitors must sign in at the front office, and staff will continue monitoring any unsafe areas.
To enter, all visitors must sign a waiver upon arrival, acknowledging that some areas are still undergoing restoration. Cemetery staff will be on-site to guide visitors and ensure no one enters restricted zones.
The Stories Behind the Headstones
Augusta’s cemeteries are more than just burial sites; they are pages of history set in stone. Each one tells a different chapter of Augusta’s past, from Civil War generals and community leaders to the untold stories of enslaved individuals and immigrant workers.
Magnolia Cemetery: A Walk Through Time
Founded in 1818, Magnolia Cemetery is one of Augusta’s most historic burial grounds, covering over 60 acres of land. It is home to some of the city’s most famous figures, including seven Confederate generals, veterans of the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and both World Wars, and even Augusta’s early mayors. The cemetery’s grand mausoleums, ornate headstones, and weathered statues tell stories of a bygone era. Walking through Magnolia feels like stepping into the past, where each grave holds a piece of the city’s history.
Cedar Grove Cemetery: Augusta’s African American Legacy
Few cemeteries in Georgia hold as much African American history as Cedar Grove Cemetery. Established in 1818, it was initially designated as a burial ground for enslaved individuals. Today, it serves as a powerful reminder of Augusta’s past, with gravestones and markers that date back over 180 years. The cemetery is the final resting place of generations of Black community leaders, educators, and military veterans, reflecting both the struggles and triumphs of Augusta’s African American population. Many graves remain unmarked, telling silent stories of those who were not given recognition in life but whose legacies endure.
West View Cemetery: A Community’s Resting Place
The youngest of the three cemeteries, West View Cemetery, was established in 1900 to accommodate the growing population of Augusta’s mill workers and their families. Unlike Magnolia, which was reserved for Augusta’s wealthier citizens, West View became the burial ground for everyday people—laborers, soldiers, immigrants, and children. West View is unique in its diversity. There is a section dedicated to Chinese immigrants, reflecting Augusta’s once-thriving Chinese community. Another area is set aside for paupers, ensuring that even those without wealth were given a dignified resting place. Additionally, a large portion of the cemetery is reserved for military veterans, honoring their service with rows of uniform headstones.
Visiting These Sacred Grounds
While Augusta’s cemeteries are places of mourning and remembrance, they are also places of learning and reflection. The city understands that many history enthusiasts and tourists are eager to visit, but during the initial reopening phase, the priority is to provide families with a peaceful space to grieve and reconnect with their loved ones. If your visit is not for personal remembrance, waiting until the full reopening on April 7 will ensure a more complete and enriching experience.
To ensure a smooth visit:
Check the schedule before heading out, especially during the phased reopening.
Sign in and sign the waiver upon arrival.
Follow staff guidance and respect any restricted areas.
Schedule an appointment for weekend visits during the expanded hours period.
For further information or to make an appointment, contact:
Cedar Grove Cemetery: (706) 821-1748
Magnolia Cemetery: (706) 821-1746
West View Cemetery: (706) 733-6741
As Augusta continues its recovery from Hurricane Helene, the reopening of these cemeteries marks an important step in preserving the city’s history and honoring those who came before us. Whether you have personal ties to those buried here or plan to visit for historical exploration, these cemeteries hold stories waiting to be discovered—and the best time for sightseeing will be once the full reopening is complete.
Thank you to everyone who attended the Augusta Recreation & Parks Career Fair on March 19, 2025, at the Henry H. Brigham Community Center! We were thrilled to connect with so many talented individuals interested in joining our team.
The event was a great success, bringing together job seekers eager to explore careers in Recreation, Athletics, Aquatics, Special Events, and Parks & Maintenance. Our team had the opportunity to engage with enthusiastic candidates, answer questions, and provide insights into the meaningful work we do to serve the Augusta community.
If you missed the event, there’s still good news—you can still apply for open positions! We are actively hiring for full-time, part-time, permanent, and seasonal roles. Visit the Augusta, Georgia website to view and apply for available positions: https://bit.ly/3RiWMrq.
We appreciate the support of everyone who made this event a success, from our dedicated staff to all the job seekers who took the time to learn more about working with us. We look forward to welcoming new team members who share our passion for serving the community.
Every March 17, people around the world come together to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, a holiday that honors the patron saint of Ireland and embraces Irish culture, heritage, and, of course, a bit of festive fun. Here in Augusta, our Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celebration bring the community together for a lively day filled with music, dancing, and plenty of green!
A Look at the History of St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day dates back over 1,000 years, commemorating St. Patrick, the missionary credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. Legend has it that he used the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity, which is why the clover remains one of the most recognizable symbols of the holiday today. While St. Patrick’s Day originally began as a religious feast day, it has since evolved into a global celebration of Irish identity, folklore, and traditions.
In the United States, Irish immigrants helped popularize the holiday in the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in cities like Boston, New York, and Chicago, where large Irish communities gathered to celebrate their heritage. Today, cities across the country—including Augusta—host parades, festivals, and cultural events to honor the Irish spirit and bring people together.
Augusta’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
One of the highlights of St. Patrick’s Day in Augusta is our Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a tradition that fills the streets with festive floats, marching bands, and Irish pride. From 2 PM to 4 PM, families and friends can gather downtown to watch as the community comes alive with music, dance, and a sea of green attire.
After the parade, the fun continues at Augusta Common, where we hosts an exciting post-parade celebration featuring: 🎶 Four live bands playing a mix of Irish tunes and lively music 🍀 Food vendors serving delicious festival favorites 🍻 Refreshing drinks to keep the celebration going
More Than Just a Party—A Celebration of Community
St. Patrick’s Day is more than just an excuse to wear green—it’s a celebration of resilience, tradition, and togetherness. Whether you have Irish ancestry or simply love the energy of the holiday, St. Patrick’s Day in Augusta is a chance to connect with others, enjoy live music, and experience the joy of a shared celebration.
So, grab your shamrocks, gather your friends, and join us downtown for an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at Augusta Common. No matter where you’re from, today everyone is a little bit Irish!
Aging gracefully is all about staying active, connected, and engaged in a vibrant community. The Augusta Recreation & Parks Department, in partnership with the Area Agency on Aging, is dedicated to enriching the lives of senior adults aged 60 and older in Augusta, Georgia. Through a variety of programs and services, seniors can enjoy social opportunities, wellness activities, and nutritious meals—all designed to support their well-being and independence.
A Place to Thrive
Our senior program is more than just a service—it’s a community. Every weekday, seniors can visit one of our participating recreation centers to enjoy a warm, welcoming environment where friendships are formed, laughter is shared, and new experiences await. Whether you’re interested in a lively game of bingo, an invigorating fitness class, or simply enjoying a nutritious meal in great company, there’s something for everyone.
Nutrition and Wellness Support
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining health and vitality as we age. That’s why we offer free congregate meals at our senior centers, ensuring that participants receive a balanced, delicious meal in a friendly group setting. For those who qualify, homebound meal delivery is also available, allowing seniors who are unable to visit a center to still receive nutritious meals delivered to their homes.
Additionally, our centers provide nutrition education, helping seniors make informed choices about their diet and overall wellness. Wellness programs focus on physical health, including exercise classes and health screenings, to keep seniors feeling their best.
Socialization and Engaging Activities
Staying socially active is just as important as staying physically active. Our senior centers host a variety of activities that foster community and engagement, including:
Arts and crafts – Unleash your creativity and express yourself through hands-on projects.
Bingo and games – Enjoy friendly competition and entertainment while meeting new people.
Fitness classes – Stay active with gentle, senior-friendly exercises designed for all mobility levels.
Special events and celebrations – Join in on themed parties, holiday gatherings, and community outings.
These activities not only bring joy and fun but also provide mental stimulation and emotional support, helping seniors maintain a positive and fulfilling lifestyle.
Affordable and Accessible Services
We understand that accessibility is essential. That’s why we offer limited transportation services for eligible seniors based on income, helping them travel to and from our centers with ease. In addition, we provide discounts on select recreation programs and fitness classes, ensuring that seniors can participate in enriching activities at little to no cost.
How to Get Involved
Participating in the Senior Program is simple. If you or a loved one are interested in joining, just visit or contact your nearest senior center. Our friendly staff will guide you through the enrollment process and help determine eligibility for meal services.
For those unable to visit in person, home-delivered meals may be available for qualified individuals. Simply reach out to your closest senior center to learn more.
Find a Senior Center Near You
Our senior programs are offered at multiple locations throughout Augusta:
Blythe Area Recreation Center
3129 HWY 88, Blythe, GA (706) 592-6668 Monday – Friday | 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Henry Brigham Senior Center
2463 Golden Camp Road (706) 771-2654 Monday – Friday | 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Carrie J. Mays Family Life Center
1014 11th Ave, Augusta, GA 30901 (706) 821-2821 Monday – Friday | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Augusta Recreation & Parks Department is committed to making sure every senior in our community has access to enriching experiences that support their health, happiness, and independence. Whether you’re looking for a place to stay active, enjoy a nutritious meal, or simply make new friends, our senior program is here for you.
Don’t wait—discover all that our centers have to offer and become part of a welcoming and supportive community today!
On March 5, 2025, recreation specialists gathered at the Henry H. Brigham Community Center for an engaging and insightful training session led by Tameka Williams, CPRP, CYSA, the Director of Recreation & Parks. The workshop, titled Programs & Services Reviews & Assessments, focused on equipping professionals with the tools needed to analyze, improve, and sustain community programming.
Key Takeaways from the Training
The session covered a broad range of topics designed to help recreation professionals enhance their offerings. Participants explored:
Program SWOT Analysis – Identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats within their programs.
Different Types of Programs & Services – Understanding self-directed, leader-directed, and facilitated programs.
Program Classification – Recognizing which programs are essential, important, or value-added based on community needs.
Program Lifecycles – Learning when to introduce, modify, or retire programs based on participation trends.
Evaluation Tools – Utilizing observations, interviews, and surveys to assess program effectiveness.
“This training helped me see programming in a new light,” said one participant. “Understanding the lifecycle of a program will help me make better decisions about when to modify or phase out activities that are no longer serving the community effectively.”
Another attendee shared, “I never realized how much strategy goes into evaluating programs. The SWOT analysis was eye-opening and gave me practical steps to improve what we offer.”
Moving Forward
As the Augusta Parks & Recreation team continues to refine its approach, workshops like this one provide valuable guidance. By implementing the evaluation tools and classification strategies discussed in the training, recreation professionals are better prepared to ensure their programs remain relevant and impactful.
“We are all programmers,” Williams emphasized in her closing remarks. “It’s our job to provide meaningful programs and services for the community, and that means constantly assessing and adapting to meet their needs.”
With these new insights, attendees left the training inspired to take their recreation programs to the next level—ensuring that Augusta-Richmond County continues to offer high-quality, engaging opportunities for residents of all ages.
Are you passionate about community engagement, outdoor activities, and enhancing public spaces? The Augusta Recreation & Parks Department invites you to our Career Fair on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, from 10 AM to 1 PM at the Henry H. Brigham Community Center, located at 2463 Golden Camp Road, Augusta, GA 30906.
Why Join Us?
Augusta Recreation and Parks is dedicated to improving the beauty and quality of life in our community by overseeing public parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities. We cultivate dynamic spaces where residents and visitors can connect, stay active, and appreciate the outdoors.
Our diverse programs and activities are designed to promote physical health, mental well-being, and social interaction. Through valuable partnerships with local agencies and non-profit organizations, we are committed to delivering exceptional services that benefit Augusta’s more than 202,000 residents.
With a dedicated team of 127 full-time employees, along with numerous part-time and seasonal staff, we work diligently to maintain green spaces and provide top-tier amenities and events. From Movies on the Common and lively community celebrations to the popular Candlelight Music Series, which attracts up to 2,000 attendees, we take pride in fostering connections and enriching Augusta’s cultural experience.
We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our team in the following areas:
Recreation Programming: Develop and oversee programs for youth, adults, and seniors, including after-school programs, summer camps, classes, wellness programs, sports, fitness rooms, and special events. Our goal is to offer diverse activities that promote health, wellness, and community engagement.
Athletics: Coordinate and support various sports programs and athletic facilities. We offer a variety of programs and facilities to help individuals stay active, compete, and enjoy recreational sports. Whether it’s swimming, tennis, or team sports, our athletics division plays a crucial role in fostering a love for sports in our community.
Aquatics: Manage our indoor aquatic facilities, offering recreational and competitive swim programs, as well as swim lessons and water fitness classes for all ages. Our aquatics team ensures a safe and enjoyable environment for all participants.
Special Events: Plan and execute community events that bring residents together, fostering a sense of community and celebration. From festivals to local gatherings, our special events team creates memorable experiences for all.
Parks & Maintenance: Maintain and enhance over 70 parks, greenspaces, athletic fields, walking trails, playgrounds, boating and fishing areas, dog parks, and cemeteries. Our parks division ensures that these spaces are clean, safe, and welcoming for all visitors.
Opportunities Available
We have a variety of full-time and part-time positions, both permanent and seasonal, available across these divisions. Whether you’re starting your career or looking to apply your skills in a new setting, we have opportunities that align with your aspirations.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025
Time: 10 AM – 1 PM
Location: Henry H. Brigham Community Center, 2463 Golden Camp Road, Augusta, GA 30906
What to Expect
Meet Our Team: Engage with department representatives to learn more about our mission, values, and the impact we have on the community.
Explore Opportunities: Discover the various roles available and find the perfect fit for your skills and interests.
Application Assistance: Get guidance on the application process and tips on how to stand out as a candidate.
Learn More About Us
For more information about the Augusta Recreation & Parks Department, our programs, and facilities, visit our official website: augustaga.gov
Join us at the Career Fair and take the first step toward a rewarding career that makes a difference in our community. We look forward to meeting you!
Welcome to the first article of the Augusta Recreation & Parks Department’s brand-new blog! This space will serve as a hub for sharing updates, stories, and insights about our parks, programs, and the people who make them possible. To kick things off, we sat down with Frank, the Public Information Assistant for Augusta Recreation & Parks, to learn more about his role and what this blog means for the community.
Q: Frank, can you tell us a little about your role as the Public Information Assistant?
Absolutely! My job is all about keeping the community informed and engaged with everything Augusta Recreation & Parks has to offer. I manage communications, whether that’s updating our website, handling social media, creating newsletters, or working with local media to spread the word about our events and programs. Essentially, I help make sure that residents, stakeholders, and staff are all in the loop about opportunities to get involved in recreation and enjoy our parks.
Q: Why did the department decide to launch this new blog?
We wanted to create a space where we could share in-depth stories about our programs, events, and the people who make them happen. Social media is great for quick updates, but a blog allows us to dive deeper into what’s going on behind the scenes, highlight community members who benefit from our programs, and provide useful resources for residents. This blog is not just for the public—it’s also a great way for staff, partners, and stakeholders to stay connected and see the impact of our work.
Q: What kind of content can people expect to see on the blog?
We’ll be featuring a mix of content, including:
Program Spotlights – Showcasing different recreation programs, from youth sports to senior activities.
Park Features – Highlighting some of Augusta’s beautiful parks, trails, and facilities.
Community Stories – Sharing testimonials and interviews with participants, volunteers, and staff.
Upcoming Events – Keeping everyone informed about what’s happening and how to get involved.
Behind-the-Scenes Looks – Giving insight into how the department operates and the hard work that goes into maintaining parks and programs.
Q: What are some exciting programs or activities happening right now?
There’s always something exciting going on! Right now, we’re gearing up for spring sports, including youth baseball, softball, and soccer. Our community centers are also hosting fitness classes, art workshops, and after-school programs. Plus, we have some great outdoor events coming up soon, for example the St. Patrick’s Day Celebration on Monday, March 17. There’s truly something for everyone.
Q: How can people stay updated and get involved?
The best way is to follow this blog and connect with us on social media. We’ll be posting regular updates here, but you can also visit our website for program registrations, facility rentals, and event calendars. If anyone has a story to share about their experience with Augusta Recreation & Parks, we’d love to hear from them!
Q: Any final thoughts on what this blog means for Augusta?
This blog is all about community. Whether you’re a resident looking for fun activities, a parent finding programs for your kids, or a stakeholder invested in the growth of our parks, this is your go-to resource. I’m excited to see how this platform helps bring people together and showcase the incredible work happening in Augusta Recreation & Parks.
Stay tuned for more updates, and thanks for being a part of our community!
