Good morning, Columbus.

A Columbus man, Drekian Dowdell, pleaded guilty to leading a nationwide check fraud scheme that cost local businesses and residents millions after an investigation that began in 2021, and he was sentenced to four years in prison — followed by probation.

The Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office announced that Operation Hades—an 8-month investigation—resulted in 10 arrests, including drug trafficking leader Archie Zanders, and led to the seizure of drugs valued at over $1.3 million from local streets.

Columbus Police Department is offering a secure prescription drug box for safe disposal—residents can drop off unused medications there.

John B. Amos Cancer Center will host a free Cancer Survivors Day Brunch tomorrow from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Piedmont Columbus Regional Midtown Conference Center— the event is themed 'Strike Out Cancer,' open to the public, and requires an RSVP by calling 7063208700.

Knoxville Smokies at Columbus Clingstones Match

1-4 p.m. — Golden Park — Ticket includes all-you-can-eat — Celebrate summer with a vibrant baseball game featuring local teams.

Columbus Area Middle & High School Camp

7:15-11 a.m. — St. Anne-Pacelli Catholic School — Cost info not provided — Engage in running, conditioning, and fun activities at this enriching camp for 4th-12th graders.

Open House in Columbus

3-5 p.m. — 507 Biggers Rd, Columbus, GA — Free entry — Explore a stunning 4,481 sq ft brick home on a serene 5.5-acre lot alongside Standing Boy Creek.

Red S.H.O.E. Challenge: 112 Minutes in Motion

11 AM – 1 PM — Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc — Free entry — Get active indoors with the Columbus GA Alumnae Chapter for a community-focused exercise event.

Senior Living Community On-Site Tour

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Oaks at Maple Ridge — Free entry — Explore top-rated senior living options and discover award-winning facilities and friendly staff.

Mortgage Fair

4-7 p.m. — Columbus Civic Center — Free admission — Explore mortgage options and connect with top lenders to start your journey toward homeownership.

Win-Win Workroom - Speed Networking

6-9 p.m. — F&W Control Tower — Registration required — Engage in a dynamic speed networking experience that fosters business partnerships and collaboration.

Mimosas & Motivation: Brunch Vendor Expo

5-9 p.m. — 3100 Gentian Blvd, Columbus, GA — Ticketed entry — Sip, shop, and enjoy a vibrant expo featuring bottomless mimosas and inspiring connections.

Christmas In July Food Truck Festival

4-7 p.m. — River Oak Boutique — Free entry — Enjoy a variety of food trucks and adult beverages at this festive summer celebration.

Summer at the Movies Worship Experience

11:30 a.m. — Columbus State University — Free entry — Celebrate faith and community with family-friendly worship at Faith Chapel.