Good morning, Columbus.

A U.S. Navy veteran, whose ashes sat unclaimed for two years, was laid to rest at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery on Monday after a genealogist contacted his niece following a federal database update & officials arranged the burial.

The Columbus Civic Center will host the We Care Vet Fair on July 23–24, offering veterans access to VA claims help and a range of support services.

Deorio’s Pizza opened in 2024 and is now up for sale in Midtown Columbus (in the former CiCi’s Pizza building on Auburn Ave) as the owners seek a seamless transition to focus on family.

On June 29, Dr. Judith Livingston of Columbus State University was named a Governor’s Teaching Fellow for her innovative approach to teaching English; she is one of 16 faculty statewide chosen to advance modern instructional methods.

The program was established by Gov. Zell Miller to enhance higher education.

Columbus State seniors worked with Pratt and Whitney at the Columbus Engine Center to design a sorter powered by AI last year.

The project gave them experience in design and project management and now shows how classroom skills move into industry — preparing students for tech careers.

4th Annual 706 Day Festival

4-8 p.m. — Woodruff Riverfront Park — Free entry — Celebrate with music, food, and family fun at this vibrant community festival.

Star Light, Star Bright

9:30-11:30 p.m. — F.D. Roosevelt State Park — Free admission — Experience a night of sky watching with expert guidance and telescopes in a picturesque park setting.

Georgia Association of Water Professionals Conference & Expo

Multiple days — Columbus Georgia Convention & Trade Center — Registration required — Dive into water management solutions and network with 1200 professionals and 200 exhibitors.

July Puzzle Night

6-8 p.m. — Columbus Bound Bookshop — Free entry — Enjoy classic jigsaws and cozy vibes at this first-ever community Puzzle Night event.

Corduroy Academy AlumNight™

7-11 p.m. — Springer Opera House — Family-friendly event — Experience the heart-warming adventure of Corduroy the Teddy Bear through the department store.