
Restaurant recession?
Within the last year, more than two dozen restaurants have closed in the CSRA. Mike Petchenik shows what this could mean in today’s edition of Biz Bits.

Within the last year, more than two dozen restaurants have closed in the CSRA. Mike Petchenik shows what this could mean in today’s edition of Biz Bits.

There is no way you can miss a new boutique at 2569 Central Avenue in Augusta. The building is bright pink and is home to The Pink Boutique. The building, what’s inside, and the owner stand out. The business, which opened three months ago, features ladies’ fashions and modern-style home décor. “We offer a little something for everyone and work with dependable vendors and our own stylists who provide our shop with quality style and merchandise,” said owner, William Harrison. In the pink means a state of good health or

As we certainly know here in the South, the college football season is underway. We are approximately three to four weeks into what appears to be a very exciting season. Based on early performances of the top teams, there appears to be a little more parity than usual, as top five teams, such as Georgia, Texas, and Florida State struggled this past week, while traditional power Alabama has had a couple of rough games in a row. But, as you know, this is a business column, and as I often

A Columbia County man has a suggestion for the metro Augusta area’s new signs reflecting Fort Gordon’s upcoming name change to Fort Eisenhower on Oct. 27. Andy Kingery spotted welcome signs during a recent trip to Tybee Island that included an additional phrase honoring its local Coast Guard base. “I was on Tybee Island and I saw this sign and it said, ‘Tybee Island – A Proud Coast Guard Community,’” he said. “They have the Coast Guard down there and I said, ‘Wait a minute. How about a proud Army

Hey there, folks! Many of my closest friends know that I am a car enthusiast. Today, I want to take you on a ride to one of the best automotive events on the East Coast – the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance! My love for classic muscle cars and beautiful unique designs like the 57 Chevy Fins, Hilton Head Island this November is the place to be if you share that passion. What sets Hilton Head Island’s Concours d’Elegance apart is its stunning backdrop. The event unfolds amidst the island’s

Businesses are becoming more creative in order to stay productive when it means less could be more. Mike Petchenik has the latest in today’s Biz Bits.

The employment level in the Augusta Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) rose for the fourth consecutive month in July. It now stands at 244,700, up from 241,600 in March. However, it continues to remain below pre-pandemic levels. The unemployment rate has inched up this year from 3.5% in January to 3.8% in July. The rise in unemployment coupled with a rise in employment can be explained by an increase in the labor force. The labor force has increased for six consecutive months, adding over 2,400 workers or potential workers to the

A man with 25 years of experience helping companies manage cyber security, data technology, and associated disciplines was the featured speaker at the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce’s Member Economic Luncheon on September 12. Cory Ruth is the Global CEO of Mergence Global, a management consulting firm. He was also a member of the Georgia Technology Authority, collaborating on the creation of the Georgia Cyber Center. Ruth said in the 1990’s, at the behest of his then-supervisor, he enrolled in a series of courses to learn about project management. It

Two familiar local business advisors have joined together to create a new company. Their goal is to help area businesses climb the mountain to success.

Dr. Rick Franza, Professor of Management at the Hull College of Business, discusses a different, timely business topic each Monday in this column. This week, he talks about the importance of financial wellness for employees and employers. The interview has been edited for clarity and impact. ABD: A number of CSRA businesses have begun offering financial wellness classes for their employees. How do you define financial wellness? Rick: Let’s start with financial literacy. In order to be financially well, you need to be financially literate, and that’s part of the