Good morning, Augusta.

At the Feb. 7 Ball at Augusta Marriott Downtown, the Irish American Heritage Society named Worth Andrews as Grand Marshal, Karen Mulherin Brooks as Irish Lady and the James and Ashlyn Hutto Family as Irish Family; the St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be held March 17 at 2 p.m.

Film Augusta has announced a private screening of the independent film Asherah: A Love Odyssey at Sacred Heart Cultural Center today at 7:30 p.m. The screening highlights Augusta's growing film scene in the community.

University of Georgia will host its annual Economic Outlook Event in Augusta to review local economic trends and projections.

Business leaders and experts are expected to discuss future opportunities at the event.

Burke County High School students demand answers after an error misweighting dual enrollment credits caused their GPAs to drop and jeopardize honors and scholarship chances.

District officials explained that grades are being corrected as per board policy adopted in March 2023 — concerns persist over unchanged transcript records.

Helms College earned full reaccreditation for five years from the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training, validating its academic quality and commitment to student success across its Augusta and Macon campuses.

The decision reached after a comprehensive review in December 2025 supports applied learning and real-world readiness.

On Feb. 11, residents attended the first community meeting on the proposed QTS data center at Belair Elementary School near Hayne's Station; officials + QTS representatives answered community questions and explained the site plans.

Today, Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F.

King announced a 5% rate reduction for Allstate’s private auto insurance policies statewide, projected to save policyholders about $17.7 million in 2026.

The Georgia Public Service Commission held a 9:30 a.m. hearing Thursday on Georgia Power’s plan to build new power plants for data centers serving Augusta and nearby counties — Columbia County approved two projects with conditions, and McDuffie County will review Project Azalea on March 3 at 6:30 p.m.

On Feb. 6, over 200 community leaders, volunteers, and survivors in Augusta gathered at the CSRA Heart Ball to raise more than $260K for the American Heart Association’s fight against heart disease and stroke (featuring a silent auction, dinner, and live auction) to support research and advocacy.

Augusta University public health experts Vahé Heboyan, PhD and Marlo Vernon, PhD discussed how economic stability can boost recovery during interviews on AU’s small business training initiative.

They stressed that supporting microenterprises builds steady income and stronger community ties.

Denise Kornegay retired on Feb.

1 after 30 years leading Georgia’s AHEC program that trains health professionals across the state — including at our base in Augusta. Erin Mundy will now serve as director as the program continues to support local training and healthcare access.

Between Feb. 16 and Feb.

20, donors at Shepeard Community Blood Center can receive two free boxes of Girl Scout cookies (including Thin Mints) when they donate blood; additional cookie sales will benefit local troops.

Valentine’s Day falls on Saturday, so locals with extra time off can explore budget-friendly date ideas across the CSRA.

Affordable options are highlighted (check local listings for more details).

Gabby Jourdain, a sophomore transfer from USC Aiken to Augusta University, set a new indoor 3k record (10:20) and will run at Boston’s David Hemery Valentine Invitational today and tomorrow.

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.

2026 Augusta-Aiken Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Show

10 AM - 6 PM — Julian Smith Casino — Under 12 free with paid adult — Discover gems, minerals, and fossils along with exciting activities and demonstrations.

Fifth Annual Run the Runway 5K

8-11 a.m. — Augusta Regional Airport — $12-$30 — Experience a unique running event on an airport runway while supporting a local nonprofit for veterans.

Robert Earl Keen Live Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Miller Theater — Tickets available — Experience the musical journey of Robert Earl Keen as he continues to inspire with his storytelling and melodies.