Good morning, Augusta.

On Sept. 20, crowds enjoyed the Arts in the Heart Festival in Augusta where dancers performed ethnic dances and artists showed their work—visitors sampled food from many countries in hot weather.

The event featured music and shows by local groups including the Augusta Jr. Players.

The U.S. Department of Labor said new unemployment claims in Georgia increased last week from 4,196 to 4,489—while national claims fell from 264,000 to 231,000.

Regional gas prices dropped last week to an average of $2.89 per gallon from $2.95, making them nearly 9% lower than the national average—data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration showed prices had ranged between $2.86 and $3.04 earlier.

Over 200 participants joined the 11th annual HBCU 5K run, walk and health fair on Saturday morning to raise money for scholarships for local HBCUs and get free health screens.

Organizers said the event has awarded over $80,000 in scholarships and will return next year.

Columbia County announced that parts of three busy roads will have lane closures for construction work.

Motorists face changes on Lewiston Road at the I-20 interchange from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 22—29, on Furys Ferry Road from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. then 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. until Oct. 20, and on Sugarcreek Drive from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 22—24.

The Augusta University women’s volleyball team swept Mississippi College 25 to 20, 25 to 10, and 25 to 17 at the USC Aiken Convocation Center this past weekend—head coach Sharon Quarles said strong serving powered the win and the team will play Middle Georgia State in their home opener on Sept. 26.

Harlem’s undefeated season ended on Friday, Sept.

19 when West Laurens beat them 26-21 after Juvon Hill picked off a pass in the fourth quarter. West Laurens will play Baldwin next Friday and Harlem will face ARC+ both teams look to bounce back.

Augusta Symphony - Triumphant Beginnings

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Miller Theater — $19 to $82 — Experience a triumphant opening night with orchestral masterpieces featuring guest artist Hyeok Kwon on cello.

Reed Timmer: Storm Chaser Extraordinaire

7:30-9 p.m. — Miller Theater — Ticket prices may apply — Experience the thrill of storm chasing with America's most famous meteorologist and learn about his groundbreaking research.

IRONMAN 70.3 Augusta

4 AM – 5 PM — Augusta Common — Participate in a challenging middle-distance triathlon event in a scenic coastal city.

Stick To Your Guns - Tour 2025

6-9 p.m. — Grantski Records — Tickets starting at $72 — Experience an unforgettable performance by Stick To Your Guns in Augusta, GA.

Wheatus Concert

7-10 p.m. — Sacred Heart Cultural Center — Ticket info not provided — Relive the nostalgia with Wheatus performing their classic 'Teenage Dirtbag'.

Lyle Lovett and His Acoustic Group Live

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Bell Auditorium — Ticket info not provided — Experience the stripped-down brilliance and storytelling charm of Lyle Lovett in an acoustic setting.

Tasha Page-Lockhart Concert

7-11 p.m. — Bell Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful sounds of contemporary gospel artist Tasha Page-Lockhart live.

Augusta Symphony: The Music of Tony Bennett

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Miller Theater — $50 to $105 — Experience a spectacular celebration of Tony Bennett’s timeless music and captivating performances.

Women of Rock and Soul

7:30-9 p.m. — Imperial Theatre — Tickets available — Celebrate the powerful impact women have had on music across genres like Jazz, Blues, and Soul.

Bethel Music Night of Worship

7-8:30 p.m. — Miller Theater — $28.65 to $93.65 — Experience a night of worship and ministry in a sacred space of unity and transformation.