Good morning, Augusta.

Veteran Wilson Fung turned his love of video games and anime into a collectibles business called Rurouni Foodie, now a full-time shop on Davis Road in Martinez open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.—he also attends regional conventions to showcase new finds.

Sacred Heart Cultural Center is a key setting in the feature film 'Asherah: A Love Odyssey' filmed last March in Augusta.

Filmmaker Gary Mazeffa is hosting a private screening this weekend & the film will premiere at Cannes in May.

Heritage Academy students celebrated Black History Month by hosting their sixth annual Poetry Slam; local middle schoolers performed original poetry that explored personal experiences and emotions (including memory and hope) as families and community members watched with pride.

The University of Georgia earned preliminary accreditation and will soon start recruiting its first class for a new medical school on its Health Sciences Campus — applications for the fall 2026 class open in the coming weeks and a $100 million facility is set for completion in December.

Colleen Walters, a professor at AU College of Nursing, was selected for the NLN 2026 LEAD program — a yearlong initiative for emerging nurse leaders.

She joins 25 other educators to advance leadership skills and community engagement.

Downtown construction is speeding up as crews aim to finish the Broad Street remodel by end of 2026; two leased parking lots at 116 James Brown Blvd and 865 Reynolds St open Monday to ease traffic during tournament week.

Business owners hold mixed opinions on the changes.

Gov. Kemp, First Lady Marty Kemp and DNR leaders announced on Monday at the Capitol that Weyerhaeuser, Forest Investment Associates, Georgia Power and Rayonier are Forestry for Wildlife partners for 2026.

The companies will support conservation efforts on nearly 1 million acres by managing lands for wildlife and outdoor recreation.

City officials outlined plans to develop James Brown Linear Park along Broad Street.

The design will honor the musician by creating new green space, with further details expected in coming weeks.

The House approved HB 383 that allows high school athletes to earn money for their name, image, and likeness - they must avoid promoting alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, sports betting or pornography and may not use school branding.

The bill now moves to the Senate for review.

On Feb. 6, the CSRA Heart Ball raised over $260,000 as more than 200 community leaders, volunteers and survivors gathered to support the American Heart Association's mission against cardiovascular disease.

The event showcased local efforts to boost research, advocacy and access to lifesaving health care.

The Atlanta Braves and Gray Media will air 15 free spring training games on over-the-air TV across the Southeast starting Feb.

22, including a new 10-episode series celebrating the 2021 championship season. Fans can check local Gray Media listings for channel details.

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.