Good morning, Columbus.

The Mount Olive Volunteer Fire Department led a brightly lit Christmas parade today across Fort Mitchell to spread holiday cheer & community spirit among local residents.

Longtime WTVM anchor Chuck Leonard died at 71 after battling health issues; he retired in December 2019 after 38 years on the air and was noted for his daily Chuck’s History Lesson (a beloved part of local broadcast), leaving behind his wife and two children.

Raising Cane’s announced the opening date for its first location in Columbus and is set to expand its reach in the area.

Local diners will soon enjoy the chain’s signature offerings at the new restaurant.

Dr. David Schwimmer’s research led to creation of the first accurate replica of Deinosuchus schwimmeri, a 31-ft prehistoric crocodilian, which has been installed at Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville (the artifact reflects decades of study and local fossil finds).

The replica educates visitors about the region's ancient past.

The Georgia Department of Labor said the Columbus metro area held a steady 4.0% unemployment rate in September, unchanged from August.

The report shows the labor force grew to 129,857 while initial unemployment claims were 370.

The Phenix City School Board voted Nathan Walters as the interim superintendent as the district transitions from outgoing leader Dr. Janet Sherrod.

The Flint Energies Foundation awarded $250,000 in grants to support STEM education by funding a new GEAR Lab at the Museum of Aviation and a mobile construction trailer at Columbus Technical College.

The grants, split equally, will boost hands-on learning in our community.

Georgia DOT announced that lane closures on interstates and major routes will be suspended from Tuesday, Dec.

23 at 6:00 a.m. to Sunday, Dec. 28 at 10:00 p.m., and again from Wednesday, Dec. 31 at 5:00 a.m. to Friday, Jan. 2 at 5:00 a.m. (construction may continue).

A local doctor advises that treating the flu early can help shorten its duration.

Columbus residents are encouraged to seek prompt care at the first signs of symptoms.

Travelers this holiday season are advised by Dr. Shikha Shah of Prestige Family Medicine to pack a health kit, take vitamin supplements & update COVID-19 and flu shots before heading out.

She also stressed healthy eating to stay alert during road trips.

Poblano + friends are available for adoption at Paws Humane Society, inviting Columbus residents to visit during regular hours and meet their potential new pet companions.

The shelter supports local families in finding the perfect addition.

The Central Red Devils won their second straight USA Today Girls Flag Football Super 25 National Championship (the team continues to excel on the field).

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.