Good morning, Columbus.

A local monk who lost his leg in a crash continues to walk for peace + his journey now serves as a powerful symbol of hope for the community.

Registration is open for the 4th annual Rivertown Hairstyling and Backpack Giveaway, which will take place on Aug.

1 at Rivertown School of Beauty on Manchester Expressway from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.—children ages 5-16 can get a backpack and hair services if they register.

Dave & Buster's will open Monday, July 20 at 10 a.m. at 5700 Whittlesey Blvd near Columbus Park Crossing offering arcade games, sports viewing and event spaces.

The venue is hosting a Find the Flag Challenge with prizes for winners.

Army sergeant Indigo Pullen is pursuing two bachelor's degrees at Columbus State while deployed in support of Operation Epic Fury; she balances military duty with a double major in business+fine arts to build creative leadership for her future.

The Workforce Pell Grant began July 1 to allow short-term job training programs in high-demand areas like healthcare, manufacturing, and IT to gain federal aid.

Approved programs must earn credentials and meet 70% completion and placement rates (a strict benchmark) to lower financial barriers.

Kaylee Dodson ’24 built her cybersecurity career using Columbus State’s Cybersecurity Nexus Program and now works at Aflac to keep data safe.

Her shift from studying finance to a tech role shows how local mentorship and determination can open doors.

Piedmont Columbus Regional pediatrician Dr. Dana Gilbert offers a back-to-school health checklist covering immunizations, sleep routines and nutrition + the guide helps parents prepare their children for school.

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.

Princess For a Day

9 AM - 12 PM — Columbus Georgia Convention & Trade Center — $15-$40 — Watch your little ones experience a magical day filled with princess-themed activities and fun.