Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 19th of June.
Good morning, Augusta.
Construction continues at James Brown Linear Park downtown as ceiling tiles showcasing the Godfather of Soul are installed—further work will add an interactive water show and a new statue stage, according to the city.
Fort Gordon will celebrate Independence Day on July 1 with a fireworks show at Barton Field from 7-11 p.m. Community members 18 and older need a pass (available in person at the Visitor Control Center Monday-Friday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.) to attend the free event.
Scott Clark, CEO of RW Allen Construction, was named the 2026 recipient of the AGC Georgia SIR Award at a June 6 dinner held at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort — a recognition of his leadership and dedication to workforce development in construction that has benefited local classrooms.
Augusta and North Augusta are partnering for a joint Fourth of July celebration at the river + residents can expect community activities and fireworks.
The event is scheduled for July Fourth and aims to bring neighborhoods together for a festive local holiday.
The Georgia Department of Education announced plans to expand free mental health training with four new courses to help educators support military-connected students beginning in July.
The courses will be available in every school district through a partnership with the Military Child Education Coalition.
Two local high school students from Pineland Telephone Cooperative (PTC) are representing the cooperative at the FRS Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., where they learn about government and rural telecommunications; they were chosen for strong leadership, academics, and community service.
Savannah River Mission Completion donated $5,000 to Augusta Technical College to help cover GED testing fees and boost its Adult Education program.
The donation supports local workforce development + opens new career pathways.
Juneteenth remains a federal and state holiday in Georgia despite recent policy changes affecting free park entry days; state offices are closed today and banks may delay processing deposits while USPS does not deliver mail.
This observance gives many a day off and signals adjustments in local service schedules.
Steven Kendrick defeated incumbent Mayor Garnett Johnson in Tuesday's runoff—winning 54.3% of the vote—as Evett Williams also won the race for Commission District 8.
Kendrick vowed an operational audit and listening tour to unify the city and improve local government.
At the first meeting since the election, community members urged the commission to improve the Bernie Ward Community Center & the Newman Tennis Center by fixing a malfunctioning gym HVAC, excess standing water, and outdated restrooms while increasing routine maintenance.
Researchers at Augusta University published a study that finds CD8+ T cells play an active role in early plaque buildup — they may both drive inflammation and protect against heart attacks.
Future research will test treatments that target these immune responses.
On June 17, the GreenJackets lost 2-1 to the Hill City Howlers as Ethan Bagwell carried a no-hit effort through five innings before later errors allowed critical hits.
The team wrapped up the first half on June 18.
Colette Kriegel of Augusta Rowing Club finished fifth in the Women's Youth Single at the USRowing Youth National Championship in Sarasota on June 18.
The Davidson graduate earned a Harvard rowing scholarship after intense training and expert coaching.
Two Evans golfers won titles at the Vaughn Taylor Championship as Sarah Martin finished at three under par to win the girls division and Kipp Madison set a tournament record in the boys division with 18 under par.
Both athletes look forward to future events + celebrate hometown pride.
Nike Boys Basketball Camp at Fox Creek High School
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Fox Creek High School — $329 for four days — Enhance basketball skills while having fun under expert coaching.
Rebound Fitness Class
9:15-10:00 a.m. — Warren Sports & Fitness — No-show fee applies — Get fit with a ladies-only workout that energizes and empowers.
Build The Band
7-10 p.m. — Miller Theater — $34.65 to $84.65 — Experience a showdown of musical talent as local bands compete for charity in an exciting live event.
Tennis Camp
9 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Warren Sports & Fitness — Fees apply — Improve tennis skills and enjoy a fun, instructional summer camp experience for young athletes.
Music In The Park
7-8 p.m. — Maude Edenfield Park — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful outdoor concert series in a scenic park setting.
Hickory Crawdads at Augusta GreenJackets
7:05-8:05 PM — SRP Park — Check for ticket prices — Watch local baseball as the Crawdads face off against the GreenJackets.
Peach State Summer Showcase
8 a.m. — Augusta Preparatory Day School — Competitive entry fee — Experience a high-energy weekend of youth basketball with teams from various divisions.
3rd Annual Bookbag Bash
9 AM – 12 PM — Bell Auditorium — Free entry — Kick off the school year with free supplies, fun music, and community resources for families.
Hickory Crawdads vs Augusta GreenJackets
2:05 – 3:05 PM — SRP Park — VIP tickets available — Experience the thrill of minor league baseball with top-notch amenities and entertainment.
Nike Peach Jam Basketball Tournament
July 14-19 — Riverview Park Activities Center — Admission TBA — Witness the pinnacle of grassroots basketball as top high school players compete for the championship.
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