Good morning, Columbus.

Columbus police and youth advocates are preparing for Fourth of July weekend as the new uptown curfew for unsupervised minors is tested.

More than 30+ officers will patrol uptown during the holiday, with a parade Friday and fireworks Saturday planned to offer safe spaces for teens.

Energy Savers of Columbus urges residents to schedule routine HVAC maintenance now to avoid costly repairs from summer heat.

General Manager Mike Gunter said the company is already receiving more calls from new customers with older systems (servicing 4,500 customers annually), reminding homeowners to check for clogged drains and dirty filters.

Energy Savers of Columbus urges homeowners to schedule an HVAC maintenance check-up (cost as little as $20 a month) to help prevent expensive summer repairs.

Residents can call now to secure routine service in Columbus.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed a New World screwworm in a South Texas calf on June 3; local cattle farmers are watching the situation as the pest could harm livestock and finances.

Experts say control may involve releasing sterile males to stop an outbreak.

Columbus State's 184 student-athletes earned 185 selections on the Peach Belt Conference 2025 to 2026 Presidential Honor Roll, presented by Barnes and Noble College, after posting a GPA of at least 3.0 during the academic year (including honors for track and field, soccer and baseball).

Columbus State Athletics concluded its historic 2025-26 season as the Cougars won six Peach Belt Conference titles, earned nine NCAA Tournament berths, and produced eight All-Americans under new Director Justin Hay—boosting records in community service, fundraising, and facility upgrades as they prepare for the next season.

Columbus State University announced that Director of Golf Lee McCoy has left the men’s golf program to pursue another opportunity.

A national search for his replacement will begin immediately as the program continues its strong run through top finishes at recent championships.

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.