Good morning, Augusta.

Salvation Army Center of Hope is asking for towel+ blanket donations as the severe cold strains its only family-friendly emergency shelter.

Community members can drop off items at 1384 Greene Street.

Local plumbing experts from Cassell Brothers Home Services advise homeowners to insulate pipes during freezing temperatures today, warning that exposure can cause damage.

They recommend turning on both hot and cold water and offer free evaluations to check pipe types—helping prevent costly repairs.

Nurses and local groups held a candlelight vigil downtown on Jan.

28 to remember Alex Pretti. The memorial brought community members together to share memories of him.

The Augusta Players and Imperial Theatre announced plans to merge to strengthen the arts across the CSRA, and both boards will soon begin a national search for a shared CEO pending final approval — a move that may boost local theater offerings.

Helms College will host its winter 2026 commencement with 60 graduates including 13 military veterans and 32 honor graduates at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan.

31 at Warren Baptist Church (3203 Washington Rd.) in Augusta.

Cedar Ridge Elementary School was evacuated Thursday after an odor forced staff and students to be relocated; several were taken to Wellstar MCG for evaluation.

The district moved classes to Grovetown Middle School Gym (site for early pick-ups) while dismissal times remain unchanged.

A winter storm watch is in effect from Friday evening through Sunday morning in the Augusta area as snow is expected Saturday with dropping temperatures and gusty winds.

Residents should prepare for slippery roads and colder conditions.

Colony Bank reported strong Q4 2025 results with net income reaching $7.8 million and deposits rising to $3.07 billion— it declared a quarterly dividend of $0.12 per share, set for payment on Feb.

25, and completed its merger with TC Federal.

A state representative introduced House Bill 961 (HB 961) on Thursday, Jan.

29 to require insurance companies to cover emergency ambulance services at in-network rates for Georgians on Medicaid and the state health benefit plan, potentially protecting over 1 million residents from high fees.

The Georgia Department of Revenue advises tax filers to wait 2 to 3 weeks after filing before checking refund status online at the Georgia Tax Center.

Filers must have their Social Security number and refund amount ready (check details on the website).

Kerwin Claiborne Live Comedy Show

10:00 – 11:30 PM — The Scene Nightclub — Tickets available — Experience a night of laughter with the hilarious Kerwin Claiborne performing live.

Marty Stuart & Molly Tuttle Concert

7-10 p.m. — William B. Bell Memorial Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience great country music from legends of the genre.

Turandot

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Miller Theater — Ticketed event — Experience Puccini's final opera in a unique multimedia staging reconnecting with its storied past.

Ray J Concert

8 p.m. – 12 a.m. — Bell Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of music with Ray J and special guests.

Candlelight Concert: Tribute to Queen

6:30-7:29 p.m. — Sacred Heart Cultural Center — Ticketed event — Experience the iconic music of Queen illuminated by candlelight in a stunning venue.

Annual Augusta Home And Garden Show

Various times — James Brown Arena — $ — Explore garden inspirations and home improvement ideas at this community favorite.

Maddox Batson Concert

8-10 p.m. — Bell Auditorium — Ticket info not provided — Experience the insightful melodies of 15-year-old songwriter Maddox Batson, known for his poignant covers.

C&G at Fat Tuesday Food and Music Fest

1-8 p.m. — Evans Towne Center Park — Free entry — Experience the vibrant rhythms and flavors of the Big Easy with live music and delicious food.