Columbus Parks and Recreation Invites You to
Hooping for the Holidays

[Columbus, Georgia, December 19, 2025] – With the holidays just around the corner, excitement is
building for Hooping for the Holidays at the 29th Street Recreation Center. Columbus Parks and Recreation
invites youth to join this free two-day basketball celebration and encourages the community to come out for fun,
friendly competition, and festive cheer. Spectators are welcome to enjoy the action on both days.

The event kicks off Monday, December 22, with a coed tournament for ages 14 to 17. Teams will compete to be
the first to win three games. The tournament runs from 2 to 6 p.m.

On Tuesday, December 23, youth ages 11 and older can participate in a coed skills showcase. Teams of two will
race to 29 points in this exciting competition, which runs from 2 to 5 p.m.

Registration is available through the Columbus Parks and Recreation Facebook page. Day-of registration will also
be accepted at the recreation center.

Hooping for the Holidays is a perfect way for young athletes to enjoy basketball, celebrate the season, and spend
time with friends and family. All skill levels are encouraged to participate, and everyone is welcome to cheer on
the teams.

For More Information, Contact:
Grace Waldron, Community Engagement Coordinator,
waldron.grace@columbusga.org
706-225-4650

KCBC Annual Christmas Tree Recycling Campaign Returns
Community Invited to Recycle Trees and Support Local Waterways

[Columbus, Georgia, December 19, 2025] – The Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission is proud to
announce its Annual Christmas Tree Recycling Campaign, encouraging residents to recycle real Christmas trees
after the holiday season. This year’s campaign is anchored by a partnership with Columbus Water Works and
supported by Columbus Parks and Recreation, Columbus Public Works, and other city partners, all sharing a
commitment to protecting local waterways and promoting environmental stewardship.

From December 26th through January 12th, residents may drop off real Christmas trees at designated locations
throughout the city. Recycled trees will be repurposed to support local aquatic environments by creating fish
habitats that strengthen ecosystems and improve water quality.

“This annual campaign highlights the power of collaboration,” said Lisa Thomas-Cutts, Executive Director of the
Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission. “Our partnership with Columbus Water Works allows us to connect waste
reduction with water protection, turning a seasonal item into a meaningful environmental solution that benefits
our community long after the holidays.”

Christmas trees are biodegradable and, when recycled, can be used to create underwater reefs that provide shelter
for fish, promote algae growth, and support the aquatic food chain. Recycling trees also helps conserve valuable
landfill space.

“Recycling your Christmas tree is an easy way for residents to make a positive environmental impact,” said
Anthony Johnson Christmas Tree Recycling Campaign Co-Chair. “It’s a small step that supports cleaner water
and healthier habitats right here in Columbus.

Drop-Off Locations
• Shirley Winston Park
• Cooper Creek Park
• Dinglewood Park
• Britt David Park
• Oxbow Meadows (main gate)

Tree Preparation Guidelines
All trees must be free of:
• Lights
• Ornaments and décor
• Tinsel
• Nails, stands, and other hardware
Only real, Christmas trees will be
accepted!

Participating in the Annual Christmas Tree Recycling Campaign reflects KCBC’s core value of
environmental stewardship. KCBC encourages residents to recycle, reduce waste, plant trees,
and protect our water supply.

Make a smart choice. Accept the challenge to be a good steward of our most valuable natural
resources. It is up to YOU to keep Columbus beautiful!

If you would like more information, please call 706-225-4008 or email
kcbc1987@columbusga.org.

For More Information, Contact:
Lisa Thomas-Cutts, Executive Director
thomascutts.lisa@columbusga.org
706-225-4008

Notice of Department Relocations
[Columbus, Georgia, December 15, 2025] – The Columbus Consolidated Government announces
the relocation of several key departments to a new centralized location to better serve the community and
streamline operations.

Effective January 5, 2026, the following departments will be moving to City Hall, located at 1111 1st
Avenue:
• Engineering Department
• Planning Department
• Community Reinvestment Department
• Inspections and Code Department

These departments will no longer operate out of their current location at 420 10th Street, effective at the
close of business on January 2, 2026.

As part of the transition:
• The public counters for both the Inspections and Code Department and the Engineering
Department will be closed on January 5 and will reopen at 1:00 PM on January 6, 2026 at the new
City Hall location.

• Field inspections and phone communications will continue as normal during the relocation period
to ensure uninterrupted service to the public.

• The Planning Department and Community Reinvestment Departments will be unavailable for inperson visits until January 12, 2026. Both departments will be available via phone or e-mail  during the transition.

Citizens and contractors are encouraged to update their records and direct all future correspondence and
in-person visits to the new City Hall location starting on the effective date.

For More Information, Contact:
Ryan Pruett, Inspections & Codes Director
RPruett@columbusga.org
706-225-3878

KidsFest 2025 Brings Holiday Fun to Uptown Columbus this Saturday
[Columbus, Georgia, December 9, 2025] – Columbus Parks and Recreation invites families across the
community to celebrate the season at KidsFest 2025 on Saturday, December 13th. The free event will take place
from 10 a.m. to noon in the City Hall Courtyard located at 1144 Broadway.

KidsFest will feature games, music, a meet-and-greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and more. Families can enjoy
festive activities designed for children of all ages while experiencing the holiday spirit in Uptown Columbus.

Community members are encouraged to come out and enjoy the various fun and holiday activities available
throughout the courtyard, inviting families to create special memories together.

For More Information, Contact:
Grace Waldron, Community Engagement Coordinator
Waldron.grace@columbusga.org
7066-905-8348

NOTICE OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT HOLIDAY CLOSING
Christmas – December 25 – 26, 2025
New Year’s Day – January 1, 2026

Notice is hereby given that the local Government of Columbus, Georgia, will alter or suspend all services on
Thursday, December 25th, through Friday, December 26th, and Thursday, January 1, 2026. This is with the
exception of emergency services such as fire, police, and ambulance. For emergency services, please call the
911 Emergency Center

Public Invited to Learn About Proposed Buena Vista Road
Multimodal Corridor Improvements

[Columbus, Georgia, December 4, 2025] – Muscogee County and the Georgia Department of
Transportation (GDOT) invite the public to attend an in-person informational meeting regarding the Proposed
Buena Vista Road Multimodal Corridor Improvements Project (PI# 0019527).

The project includes proposed improvements along Buena Vista Road from SR 22 Spur/Wynnton Road to
Annette Avenue and aims to create a safer, more accessible corridor for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and transit
users.
An in-person public information meeting will be held on:
Thursday, December 4, 2025
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Fluellen Recreation Center
2824 8th Street
Columbus, GA 31906

The meeting will provide an overview of the project, display proposed design concepts, and offer an opportunity
for attendees to ask questions and provide feedback directly to the project team.
For residents who cannot attend in person, information about the project will also be available online. The project
website will remain open through December 19, 2025, allowing the public to review materials and submit
comments electronically.

Project website: https://bit.ly/TIA-BVMultimodalProject

This project is funded through the Transportation Investment Act (TIA) and is being administered by the
Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) in coordination with Muscogee County.
Public input is an important part of the project development process. Residents, business owners, and
stakeholders are encouraged to participate and share their perspectives.

For More Information, Contact:
Will Johnson, Planning Director
WJohnson@columbusga.org
706-653-4116

Columbus Civic Center to Go Fully Cashless and Ticketless Starting January 1, 2026
[Columbus, Georgia, December 3, 2025] – The Columbus Civic Center announced today that beginning
January 1, 2026, the venue will transition to a fully cashless and ticketless experience for all events. This
update is designed to streamline entry, enhance safety, and improve the overall guest experience.

What Guests Can Expect:
• Cashless Payments Only: All major credit and debit cards, as well as mobile payment options (Apple
Pay, Google Pay, etc.), will be accepted for box office, concessions, and bars.
• Ticketless Entry: Fans will use the Ticketmaster app or digital tickets on their smartphones for entry.
Step-by-step guides are available on the Columbus Civic Center’s website.
o How To Manage Your Tickets: https://civiccenter.columbusga.gov/Events-Tickets/ManageYour-Tickets
• Box Office Purchases: The Columbus Civic Center Box Office will continue to accept card and mobile
payments. Instead of receiving a paper ticket, purchases will go directly into the guest’s email.
o Box Office Information: https://civiccenter.columbusga.gov/Box-Office
• Previously Purchased Paper Tickets: Guests who purchased paper tickets before January 1, 2026, will
still be honored at entry. Moving forward, all tickets will be digital.
• Full Cashless & Ticketless FAQ:

Guests can view a complete overview of the new process including digital ticket management, payment
options, entry procedures, and helpful tips at: https://civiccenter.columbusga.gov/Plan-YourVisit/Ticketless-FAQ
This transition reflects the Columbus Civic Center’s continued commitment to safety, convenience, and efficiency.
Cashless transactions reduce waiting times, minimize contact, and create a more secure environment for fans and
staff alike.

For More Information, Contact:
Jennifer Babin
Marketing Manager, Columbus Civic Center
Babin.jennifer@columbusga.org
(706) 617-7651

Columbus Parks & Recreation to Hold Public Meeting on Proposed Street Hockey Rink at Benning Park

[Columbus, Georgia, November 14, 2025] – Columbus Parks & Recreation will host a public meeting on
Thursday, Nov. 20, to discuss the potential addition of a street hockey rink at Benning Park.
The proposed facility would provide a dedicated space for Columbus Street Hockey and community members to
enjoy the growing sport locally.

The meeting will take place at Frank Chester Recreation Center, offering residents an opportunity to ask
questions, share feedback, and voice their thoughts on whether the project should move forward. Community
participation is encouraged, and all are welcome to attend.

Public Meeting Details:
Date: Thursday, November 20, 2025
Time: 6 to 7 p.m.
Location: Frank Chester Recreation Center, Columbus, GA

For More Information, Contact:
Grace Waldron, Community Engagement Coordinator
waldron.grace@columbusga.org
706-905-8348

Columbus Parks and Recreation Department Earns Top Honors at State and District Levels
[Columbus, Georgia, November 7, 2025] – The City of Columbus Parks and Recreation Department
received multiple top honors from the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association (GRPA), recognizing
outstanding achievements in leadership, programming, and community service.

At the GRPA District 3 Banquet on October 1, 2025, the department was celebrated among 29 cities for
numerous accomplishments. Samantha Thies, Community Schools Division Manager, received the Mary Roth
Award for Outstanding Programmers. The District Administrative Support Award was presented to Debbie
Neely. Emiko McDonald was named Volunteer of the Year for her dedicated service at Frank Chester Recreation
Center. Trees Columbus earned the Special Recognition Award for its contributions to city parks, and Sam
Manning received the Outstanding Program Award for his Green Power Racing Program. The Columbus Parks
and Recreation Department also received the highest district honor, as Agency of the Year.

At the GRPA State Banquet on November 5, 2025, Columbus again stood out among 159 counties statewide.
Trees Columbus received the Volunteer of the Year Award for its impact on park preservation and beautification,
and Jared Owens, Parks Services Manager, earned the Parks Maintenance Distinguished Professional Award for
his lasting contributions to the field of recreation and park operations.

Mayor Skip Henderson announced plans to proclaim a Day to Honor GRPA Award Recipients in recognition of
the department’s achievements at both the state and district levels. The proclamation will celebrate the
department’s dedication to serving the Columbus community through innovative programs, strong leadership, and
outstanding partnerships.

For More Information, Contact:
Grace Waldron, Community Engagement Coordinator
(706) 905-8348
waldron.grace@columbusga.or

Help Feed Local Families This Thanksgiving: Join the Columbus Civic Center Food Drive!
[Columbus, Georgia, November 6, 2025] – The Columbus Civic Center, in partnership with Keep Columbus
Beautiful and The Community Warriors, invites everyone to join in the spirit of giving this holiday season by participating
in the Thanksgiving Food Drive.

This year’s food drive aims to help feed local families in need and give thanks to our community by spreading kindness and
compassion throughout Columbus.

Every can, box, or frozen item makes a difference. Donations will be used directly to help local families enjoy a warm and
hearty Thanksgiving meal. All proceeds will be given to Feeding the Valley, which will help distribute food to families in
need throughout our community.

Accepted Donations Include:
• Canned Goods: Soups, vegetables, fruits, beans, and more
• Boxed Foods: Stuffing, rice, pasta, cereal, and similar items
• Frozen Foods: Vegetables, family meals, and other frozen items
• Frozen Turkeys and Hams — Most Needed!
Please ensure that all donations are sealed and not expired.

Donation Drop-Off Details:
• Location: Columbus Civic Center – 400 4th Street, Columbus, GA 31901
• Dates: November 6 – November 14, 2025
• Times: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Drop-Off Spots: Administration Office (left side of the building) or Box Office

With your help, we can make Thanksgiving brighter for families across our community. Join us in giving thanks by giving
back — because together, we can make a difference.

For More Information, Contact:
Jennifer Babin, Marketing Manager
babin.jennifer@columbusga.org | (706) 225-4843

Keep Columbus Beautiful to Host Free Drive-Thru Paper Shredding & Shoe
Recycling Event
[Columbus, Georgia, November 4, 2025] – The Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission (KCBC) will
host a Drive-Thru Free Paper Shredding and Shoe Recycling Event on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 9:00
a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in front of the City Services Center (3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, GA).
Shred-A-Way Management will be on-site providing secure paper shredding services at no cost to residents. This
is the perfect time of year to safely dispose of unwanted documents, reduce paper clutter, and help protect your
identity.
There is a limit of three boxes per car, and three-ring binders, external hard drives, and metal materials will not be
accepted.
In addition to shredding, residents are encouraged to donate gently used shoes as part of KCBC’s ongoing Shoe
Recycling Campaign, which runs through January 25, 2026. Donating shoes helps reduce waste sent to local
landfills while supporting developing countries in need through repurposing and reuse initiatives.
For more information about this event or to learn how your organization can host a shoe recycling bin, please
contact Keep Columbus Beautiful at 706-225-4008 or email kcbc1987@columbusga.org