Good morning, Columbus.

During a heavy rainstorm on Wednesday, deputies from the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office spent nearly five hours rescuing two kittens that were trapped in a deputy's vehicle+ both kittens are reported to be doing well.

Lauren Eldridge, a former bookkeeper at Keller Williams Realty River Cities, admitted to wire fraud and stole over $450,000 from company funds, and she was sentenced to 27 months in prison (plus three years of supervised release) with an order to repay the stolen amount.

The Columbus Police Department ended Operation Overlook, a 30-day crime prevention initiative that increased police presence and enforcement—recording 206 arrests, clearing 236 warrants, confiscating 32 guns, and reducing Part 1 crimes by 30% compared to last year.

Columbus will celebrate Juneteenth with a weekend-long series of events that honor African American heritage and freedom.

Organizers have planned parades, musical performances, and educational sessions and will share details on times and venues locally.

Georgia Power today shared six energy-saving tips to help Columbus residents lower summer bills; the company advised changing air filters, turning off lights, sealing windows, washing full loads in cold water, switching to LED bulbs, and using appliances after 2:00 p.m. — it also highlighted support programs such as the EASE Program, My Power Usage Tool, and Threshold Alerts.

Columbus State University is preparing students for AI-proof careers by offering new programs in AI, data analytics and IT—helping them gain industry credentials and build key skills for a technology-driven workforce.

The university also provides a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies and career coaching—ensuring students become adaptable for future challenges.

The Columbus Clingstones are hosting Welcome to Summer Weekend — a six-game series against the Biloxi Shuckers from June 24 to 29 — featuring game-day promotions like take-two Tuesdays, beach towel giveaways, Margaritaville Night and a fireworks display after the June 27 game.

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.

Astronomy Night at F.D.R. State Park

9:00-11:59 p.m. — Liberty Bell Pool — Free entry — Explore the night sky with telescopes and guided tours led by the Space Science Center team.

Summer at The Movies Celebration

11:30 a.m. — Columbus State University — Free admission — Experience a vibrant worship event for the whole family with community spirit.