Good morning, Augusta.

The Irmo Police Department held a news conference Monday at 11 a.m. to discuss the death of Byron Jackson, a North Augusta man who died after a police chase on June 22.

During the meeting, police said they would release 911 recordings and bodycam footage—while Jackson's family and his attorney called for greater transparency.

Emmanuel Lewis Oneal was sentenced to 45 years in prison for a deadly 2020 Aiken club shooting after a trial that began on July 14 and reached a verdict on July 18—authorities said he was convicted of murder, assault and battery of a high aggravated nature and possessing a weapon during a violent crime—while another suspect, Dustin Robert Williamson, was found not guilty.

Samuel Williams’ new play The Other Side of Jordan will be performed at Maxwell Theatre at 3 p.m. July 26 and cast members say rehearsals led to deep, healing conversations.

The play draws on Williams’ own life experiences and comes with trigger warnings for depictions of alcoholism and abuse — a reminder of faith and family.

State lawmakers heard testimony on Thursday from a Georgia Tech student and a Children’s Healthcare expert who warned that vape companies use bright packaging and fruity flavors to lure teens and cause health risks.

The committee will meet again to discuss plans for raising taxes and improving product labels—steps that could lead to new rules before the next legislative session.

Georgia will get part of $27.5 million from former Premier Medical CEO Kevin S.

Murdock after he agreed to a settlement with the federal government, Colorado, and South Carolina in a Medicaid fraud case. The case said his lab pushed unnecessary genetic tests costing up to $12,000 on Medicaid patients in low-income areas — a move that added to $114 million in settlements and cost Georgia $7 million.

Mosquito numbers rose in Augusta after Hurricane Helene, and three mosquitoes elsewhere in Georgia tested positive for West Nile virus—health officials say residents should remove standing water and use repellent to prevent bites.

Charlie Culberson, who played in the Major Leagues from 2012 to 2023 and spent two seasons with the GreenJackets, will be inducted into the Hall of Fame on Aug.

22 at SRP Park. He will throw a ceremonial first pitch at 6:50 p.m.—and fans will have the opportunity to meet him after the game against the Columbia Fireflies.

Augusta Captains Seafood Festival

1 PM to 5 PM — Augusta Common — Free admission — Enjoy three days of fresh seafood and live music in a family-friendly atmosphere.

AugustaCon Summer 2025

10 AM – 5 PM — Columbia County Exhibition Center — Ticket details pending — Explore a variety of fandoms at Georgia’s premier comic convention.

FREE Sundays at The Morris

12-5 p.m. — Morris Museum of Art — Free entry — Enjoy a cultural experience at Augusta's art museum on this special free Sunday event.

Free Sundays at The Morris

12-5 p.m. — Morris Museum of Art — Free entry — Enjoy art and culture at no cost thanks to community sponsorship.

PokeKon Fest

10 AM – 5 PM — Columbia County Exhibition Center — $20 — Discover the ultimate gathering for Pokemon collectors and fans of all genres at this vibrant one-day convention.

Jammin' — A Night of Reggae

7-8:30 p.m. — Miller Theater — VIP tickets available — Experience the spirit of reggae with The Legendary Wailers and Terence Young Project for a night of celebration and unity.

Lilo and Stitch Movie Screening

2-5 p.m. — Miller Theater — General admission — Relive the magic of Lilo and Stitch at this beloved local movie palace.

TechNet Augusta 2025

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center — Registration required — A three-day conference fostering collaboration between military and industry professionals on cyber challenges.

Art of Words: Poets' Open Mic

5:30-7:45 p.m. — Aiken County Library — Free entry — Celebrate poetry with featured poet Tera Jackson and local talent in a friendly environment.