Good morning, Augusta.

Donnie Thompson was honored for his mentorship and community service with the Distinguished Citizen Award at the Investment in Character Luncheon by the Georgia-Carolina Council, Scouting America.

The recognition spotlights his efforts in building stronger families — supporting a better future for local youth.

Singer Mark Chesnutt will perform at the Miller Theater on Friday, Feb.

13 at 8 p.m. Fans will hear his popular songs as he performs sober (he vowed to stay clear after years of battling alcohol).

Southern Living highlights the story of the Vidalia onion pie, a local treat born in 1931 when a farmer in Toombs County discovered his onions turned sweet because of low-sulfur soil.

The pie remains a staple at family gatherings across the region.

Since arriving on July 1, Augusta University provost Dr. Maggy Tomova has engaged with students by attending events + listening to their concerns.

Her approach seeks to boost retention and improve academic programs for better student success.

A tree planting project will temporarily close a key entrance at Augusta University's Summerville campus later this week to enhance landscaping.

Commuters should use alternate routes while campus officials implement the project (exact timings are pending).

Georgia legislative leaders announced on Monday, Feb.

9 the introduction of HB 1193, the Georgia Early Literacy Act of 2026, which provides QBE funding for K-3 school literacy coaches. Superintendent Woods supports the bill, noting past improvements in student reading scores.

AU professor Melissa DeVelvis spoke at Book Tavern on Saturday, Feb.

7 about her new book Gendering Secession, which shows how white women engaged in politics before the Civil War; she also held a book signing after her talk.

Kristi Baker, a Columbia County Board of Education District 2 member, announced she will not seek another term after nearly 16 years of service — she will work with the current board for the remaining 10 months and thanked the community for its support of public education.

Augusta University has launched a baby lab that gives students hands-on training in neonatal care at its campus.

The new program aims to boost practical learning for future healthcare professionals.

Paceline has raised over $2M for cancer research, including a $366,217 donation to the Georgia Cancer Center on Monday.

The check supports 33 projects (some earning $12.25M in NIH funds) and PaceDay registration opens March 1 with a kick-off celebration set for May 12.

The Augusta Rowing Club won 30 medals and the Junior Team Points Trophy at the Atlanta Erg Sprints over the weekend — junior athlete Colette Kriegel earned first in the Women’s Under-19 2000-meter race and Ashley Johnson set an event record.

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.

Independent Hustler Awards Show

7-11 PM — Jammin Moments — Ticket sales for the public — Celebrate the achievements of local entrepreneurs and artists at this annual awards show.

An Evening of Soul with Raheem DeVaughn

3:30-10:30 p.m. — Miller Theater — $64.15 to $106.15 — Experience the soulful sounds of Grammy-nominated Raheem DeVaughn and Eric Roberson in a night of R&B music.