🌱 Columbus PD Search For Suspect + Juneteenth Events + Pride Festival

Hello, friends. I'm back in your inbox this warm morning to walk you through everything you need to know about what's happening locally.

But first, your local weather:

• Saturday: Nice with clouds and sun. High: 91 Low: 62.
• Sunday: A t-storm in the afternoon. High: 86 Low: 62.

Here are the top three stories today in Columbus:

1. The Columbus Police Department released surveillance video of a male suspect committing a burglary at the Country’s Barbecue Corporate Office, located on 12th Avenue. On both May 23 and May 31, the suspect threw a rock at the glass door to gain entry and then stole items including a bike. CPD is asking the public to contact Sgt. J. Edenfield at jedenfield@columbusga.org or 706-604-6175 if you know the identity of the suspect. (WTVM 9)
2. On Thursday, Jun. 1, the Civic Leaders of Columbus announced the Juneteenth Celebration event schedule that will take place Jun. 17 to Jun. 19. Most events are open to the public and free of charge including Juneteenth Western Dinner Dance on Jun. 16, Juneteenth Jubilee on Jun. 17, Liberty Theatre & Cultural Arts Center Block Party on Jun. 19, and more. Click here to see all the events and to buy tickets for the Men of Motown event. (WRBL)
3. Pride month celebrations begin today, Jun. 3, with the 10th Annual Columbus LGBTQ+ Pride Festival! The festival begins at 10:00 a.m. with a prayer and the national anthem, and vendors will be set up around the downtown area. The 2023 Pride Parade begins at 3:30 p.m. at 1st Avenue and 9th Street, and then dinner and other various events will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. Click here to see the full schedule. (WRBL)

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Today and tomorrow in Columbus:

Saturday, June 3

• The Chattahoochee Valley Daylily Festival At Columbus Botanical Garden (9:00 AM)

Sunday, June 4

• Family Day: Van Goes To The Beach At Painting With A Twist (3:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Many were angry after a possible amendment to charge for parking during the Republican Convention and other big events at the Columbus River Center was announced on Tuesday. On Friday, Jun. 2, Mayor Skip Henderson announced that parking will remain free during the convention, Jun. 9 through Jun. 11, in the Uptown district, including the River Center. An exception to this is the Columbus Convention and Trade Center parking deck.(WTVM 9)
• The Columbus Police Department is warning the community against reckless stunt driving and illegal street racing. Many citizens are reporting an increase in these illegal and dangerous activities. The CPD said those "caught laying drag or participating in reckless stunt driving" could face fines, license suspension/revocation, and jail time. (Columbus Georgia Police Department via Facebook)
• A tiny domestic short hair kitten named Crackle is looking for his forever home! See Crackle and more adoptable pets in the Columbus area at the link. (Columbus Patch)

Alrighty, you're all caught up for today! I'll see you around.

— Rose Mendez

About me: Rose Mendez is a freelance writer. She is studying English Literature at Hunter College. She loves reading, walking around the city, and coffee!