Good morning, Macon.

Firefighter Zachary Horton overcame a broken femur and returned after 12 weeks of recovery to graduate top of his 26-person recruit class in June.

He now trains with the county fire department outside Fire Station No. 10 on Oglethorpe Street — preparing for his first 24-hour shift.

Downtown Macon's fifth annual French Fry Fight is underway through July 12—22 restaurants vie for the Super Spud Trophy as customers sample innovative fry creations during regular business hours.

Local child care centers say a state law signed on May 11, which requires extra paperwork and two agency approvals before background checks, is slowing hiring and leaving centers short-staffed as schools prepare to start soon.

Former NBA player Sharone Wright is hosting a week-long basketball camp at Southwest High School to help local youth build skills on and off the court that could lead to future success.

MWA crews installed a 6-inch water valve on Wednesday, July 8 in west Macon, causing up to 93 customers along Somerset Drive, Brown Avenue, and Marlies Circle to lose water or face low pressure for six to eight hours.

Customers had been notified three days in advance.

Local doctor warns that heat index values reaching 105 are linked to a rise in heat illnesses, especially for those with heart issues or asthma.

Cooling centers (Haven Hope House at 79 Green St in Warner Robins and others in Macon) will open Monday, Jul. 13 to offer support.

A new free swimming program is starting in Macon this month to teach children essential water safety skills after local drownings (no fee required).

Georgia peaches are at their peak this July in Middle Georgia, where 1.6 million trees supply most of the state’s fruit.

Local packing houses near Macon welcome visitors to watch the process and purchase fresh peaches — a tasty way to support local farming.

Macon Bacon players (including standout Stewart Puckett) were named All-Stars after a Coastal Plain League event on Tuesday at Florence Flamingos stadium.

Rising basketball freshman Joshua Sanders transferred from Central Fellowship to Peach County, and teammate Shaheem Barbosa also moved schools.

Macon Bacon vs. Martinsville Mustangs

7-10 p.m. — Luther Williams Field — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy thrilling minor league baseball action as the Macon Bacon take on the Martinsville Mustangs.

Lindsey Stirling & PVRIS Concert

3 PM — Macon Arts Center, LLC — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of electrifying performances with Lindsey Stirling's violin and PVRIS's modern rock vibes.

Women In Truth: Abide

All day — Macon Coliseum — Tickets available — Experience a captivating concert with Women In Truth.