Good morning, Augusta.

An Augusta couple returned home on Saturday after touring Egypt and Jerusalem just before the U.S. and Israel launched Operation Epic Fury.

Their host family (sheltering with neighbors amid red alerts) remains safe.

The Salvation Army of Augusta partners with Tacocat on a Spring Cleaning donation drive this month – residents can drop off cleaning supplies at Tacocat at 208 10th Street or deliver them to the Center of Hope, Kroc Center, or a Family Store to support safe, sanitary conditions.

Durty Gurl, the fast-rising vodka brand in the Southeast, has named industry veteran Carlos Carreras as its new CEO effective immediately to lead its national rollout.

Carreras reunites with EVP Rene Armas + plans the company’s next phase of expansion across multiple states.

Singer Faith Kelly and Caswyn Moon will perform a free show at the Soul Bar on March 10 starting at 8:30 p.m. They will alternate between energetic folk rock and a laid-back style *to offer a unique experience* for local music fans.

Augusta University crowned 2026 Homecoming royalty after a week of campus events.

Second-year Bryson Walker and Caroline Swift became Duke and Duchess on Feb. 20 while James Njuguna and Maddie Edwards were named King and Queen on Feb. 21 during a men’s halftime, as the royals begin ambassador roles.

Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper has announced a $531M Hurricane Helene Block Grant Program for farmers, ranchers and foresters impacted by the storm.

Applications open March 16 and close April 27 (a six-week period) to help cover losses not managed under other USDA programs.

City leaders said Tuesday that construction on Broad Street (downtown Augusta) will continue through Masters Week.

A USA Today report showed the Augusta water system tested 10.9 times above EPA limits for PFAS chemicals—the highest among six local systems—raising health concerns as warmer weather nears.

Officials urge residents to use filters certified to reduce these chemicals + stay tuned for further testing results.

Georgia basketball is preparing for March Madness as experts offer varying bracket projections ahead of the Selection Sunday reveal on March 15.

The Bulldogs, who have recorded 20 wins, are set for a final regular season game at Mississippi State that may impact their seeding.

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.

Doing Business with Augusta Workshop

2 PM — Accelerate Augusta — Free entry — Discover opportunities and insights into doing business in Augusta, Georgia.

I-20 Highways Basketball Tournament

All day — Riverview Park Activities Center — Entry fee varies — Compete in a thrilling weekend of grassroots basketball with top AAU programs from the region.

Board Game Night with Cardboard Castle

5-9 p.m. — Savannah River Brewing Co. — 15% off draft beer for steinclub members and more — Enjoy a fun evening filled with games from the local store.

Annual Spring Luncheon Event

9:30 AM – 2:00 PM — Augusta Country Club — Registration required — Celebrate spring with renowned speakers and fellow garden enthusiasts at the Augusta Council of Garden Clubs' luncheon.

Dare To Tri Sprint Triathlon

9 AM – 1 PM — Fort Gordon Indoor Swimming Pool — Check your competitive spirit with a 300m swim, 10-mile bike ride, and 5K run.