Good morning, Columbus.

The annual Blue Lights and Smiles Event in Columbus—expected to offer festive activities and holiday lights—will give families a chance to celebrate together, with details on the schedule and venue to be announced soon.

WTVM invites viewers to donate new or gently used coats to help keep families warm this winter in the Chattahoochee Valley.

The West Georgia Chapter of the Police Benevolent Association hosted its 12th annual Blue Lights and Smiles event on Tuesday at Bill and Olivia Amos Children's Hospital.

Officers traveled from Columbus State University Police Department and Santa Claus made an appearance to bring smiles to young patients.

Columbus' Country’s Barbecue operated from a former Greyhound station continues a 50-year tradition with family recipes and wood-smoked techniques that begin each morning at 7 a.m. (Owner Grif Morpeth ensures the historic brick pit remains a beloved community fixture).

Today, at the Muscogee County School Board Meeting, the School District presented its year-end financial report detailing school budgeting and spending, aiming to inform community members of upcoming school funding changes.

George T. Bagby State Park has refurbished its visitor center into a multi-use space with a conference room, classroom, retail area and offices and developed cottages, a campground, sports courts and more — welcoming visitors in early 2026 along lake views, trails and a new pool where guests can relax.

Mechelle Virgin, a local mother grieving the loss of her daughter, says the holidays worsen depression and urges residents to seek support from friends and community groups.

Pastor Thomas Maynick advises avoiding alcohol and connecting with others during the season.

ATTOM released its Q3 2025 report showing that the profit margin on flipped homes dropped to 23.1%, the lowest since 2008.

Columbus had one of the nation’s highest flipping rates at 13.5% of all sales, pointing to cooler returns and rising home prices.

Carver High School clinched its second consecutive state championship (a 24-7 win over Hapeville Charter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta) and finished an undefeated season, showcasing strong teamwork and community support.

The Carver Tigers will try to win their second straight state title as they play in the upcoming championship game.

The team has enjoyed a perfect season and is expected to rally local support in this key contest.

Carver football, led by first-year coach Jarvis Jones, won back-to-back GHSA 2A state championships — defeating Hapeville Charter and then the Hornets to secure the third title at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in the 2024 and 2025 seasons.

Disney's Frozen - The Musical

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Springer Opera House — Cost Info not provided — Experience the enchanting musical adaptation of the beloved animated film featuring thrilling songs and new music.

Columbus River Dragons vs. Athens Rock Lobsters

7:35-9:05 p.m. — Columbus Civic Center — Cost info not provided — Catch the thrilling hockey match between the River Dragons and the Rock Lobsters.

11th Annual Lion and Lamb Music Christmas Bash

3-9 p.m. — Peachtree Mall — Free entry — Celebrate Christmas with live music, local vendors, and free gifts for attendees.

Disney's Frozen - The Musical

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Springer Opera House, Columbus, GA — Tickets required — Experience the magic of Disney’s Frozen with beloved songs and new music in a regional theatre performance.

Columbus River Dragons vs. Carolina Thunderbirds

7:35-9:35 p.m. — Columbus Civic Center — Admission tickets required — Enjoy the intensity of the Columbus River Dragons in action against their rivals the Carolina Thunderbirds.