Good morning, Columbus.

Community members and Boy Scouts in Columbus honored Revolutionary War soldier Samuel Cooper near his gravesite at the corner of Warm Springs & Miller Roads to mark Independence Day.

Rick Johnson of Wreaths Across America led the effort to clean the site and secured a local business owner’s promise to keep the flag lit at night & help preserve his legacy.

The Columbus Police Department launched an investigation on July 4 after two overnight shootings on Newick Drive and Mill Branch Road—homes a block apart were hit by gunfire—with no serious injuries reported.

Columbus police are investigating a shooting near Doyle Avenue after a house was hit by multiple bullets—no injuries have been reported so far.

The National Civil War Museum in Columbus celebrated the 4th of July by hosting a mix of historical exhibits and fun activities—drawing visitors to reflect on history.

A raccoon near the Japonica Drive and Laurel Drive area tested positive for rabies, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health.

Residents are advised to avoid handling stray animals and to report any bites or unusual behavior by calling Columbus Animal Control — 706-653-4512 — or the Public Health/Environmental Health office — 706-321-617.

Columbus health inspectors said C Town Wings on North Lumpkin Road scored 77 after repeated food storage violations, including raw fish stored above ready-to-eat sauces and pork kept on the freezer floor — and the restaurant must correct these issues within 10 days.

Meanwhile, Country’s Barbecue on Mercury Drive scored 86 after its food temperature controls and cooler cleanliness were found lacking.

On July 4th, Moe's Original BBQ held its first rib eating contest at Synovus Park where local competitors vied for the title — organizers said the event sparked community excitement and plans for the contest to become an annual tradition.

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.

Johnny's Cowboy Rodeo

5-9 p.m. — Cooper Creek Park — Free entry — Celebrate Johnny's 25th birthday with food trucks, music, and good vibes in cowboy attire.

Summer at The Movies at Faith Chapel

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

Enterprise Linux System Administration Training

Mon, Jul 28 – Fri, Aug 1 — Georgia Training Center — $2190 — Deepen your Linux skills with hands-on training in system administration.

Columbus Ice Rink Public Skating

5-9 p.m. — Columbus Ice Rink CIVIC CENTER — Ticket valid for any open skating session — Glide across the ice and enjoy a fun evening of public skating in Columbus.

Georgia Pop Culture & Horror Con 2025

5 PM – 5 PM — Columbus Georgia Convention & Trade Center — $43-$45 — Experience a unique blend of horror, anime, and comics with celebrity panels and cosplay contests.

Revival Fire Prayer Event

1-4 p.m. — Greater Glory Tabernacle — Free entry — Fasting and praying for spiritual renewal and transformation in the community.