After hearing on the news this morning the heat index reached 115 degrees in some parts of the Southeast yesterday and that we've got the same to look forward to again today, the first thing I did when I got to work this morning was to Google "First Day of Autumn 2014." And I'm happy to report that as of tomorrow, Saturday, August 23, we'll be exactly one month away from the start of Fall. But before we can start pulling out sweaters and boots from storage, it does look like another scorching weekend coming up, so how about we look for some fun things to do this weekend that involves plenty of air conditioning? Luckily, we've got some great choices of some pretty interesting sounding events--like what's going on at the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus. They're debuting a new play, The Old Ship of Zion, by Columbus, GA playwright Natalia Naman. It'll to be running this Friday-Sunday and also next Wednesday & Thursday (August 22-24 & 27-30). It's the story of an African-American church in Columbus facing a dwindling congregation who's preparing for one last leap of faith - a revival. Folks involved say it's a moving, funny, and refreshingly earnest play and will test everyone's understanding of community, faith and the challenges churches face in today's world. They'll even have a panel Q&A session after the play to really get you thinking. I also like the fact that admission is only $10 and they keep it pretty chilly in that museum!
And speaking of museums, the Columbus Museum has several new exhibits on display and a couple you really should check out include Leaving Mississippi – Reflections on Heroes and Folklore: Works by Najee Dorsey and William Beckman: Drawings, 1967-2013. Two very different exhibits, but both well worth a visit to this impressive facility. Of course, there's never an admission charge to get in the museum...and yes...they keep it nice and cool in there, too!
Now, if you just can't get enough of this hot weather and WANT to be outside enjoying the heat, there's a ton of stuff going so make sure you take a good look at the Event Calendar and then start making some weekend plans!