Good morning, Columbus.

The family of Dollar General store manager Alexis Hill will hold her funeral this Friday, July 3 at 11 a.m. at Cathedral of Prayer COGIC on Buena Vista Road, with visitation planned Thursday, July 2 from 4 p.m. & 6 p.m.

The Winn-Dixie Company announced a donation of $100,000 to the USO to support military members, veterans, and families in Florida and Georgia ahead of Independence Day on July 4.

The funds were raised through a four-week in-store program and build on the grocer's steady local effort to back military communities.

Barbara Gauthier interviewed Aflac president Virgil Miller in the latest On the Record episode that aired Tuesday, Jun.

30 in Columbus. The conversation focused on his leadership style and work-life balance.

Today, Congressman Bishop announced that the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation will award $20 million in grants to restore longleaf pine forests via 25 projects in Georgia and surrounding areas — a move that will replant over 30,000 acres and improve 350,000 acres to support communities recovering from Hurricane Helene.

Governor Kemp announced today a fourth round of Rural Site Development Initiative grants awarding $7.8 million to ten projects—including a $2 million upgrade at Muscogee Technology Park.

Communities will match state funds to improve sites and create jobs.

Columbus fire officials warn that Fourth of July fireworks can quickly turn dangerous if adults do not follow safety measures.

They advise keeping water nearby, lighting on safe surfaces, and closely supervising children + suggest enjoying downtown professional displays for a safer holiday.

Local physicians and fire officials warn residents to take precautions against heat exhaustion and fireworks injuries as Fourth of July celebrations approach.

They advise drinking water, alternating alcoholic drinks with water, and following safety directions when handling fireworks (burn injuries can be severe).

Dr. Christine Goertz discussed lower back pain in men and shared prevention tips (including proper stretching and posture advice) to help residents reduce injury risks.

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.