David Stringer wearing a dark button-down shirt

David Stringer

Newsletter Editor

David is based in Columbia, SC where he’s lived since graduating from UofSC’s School of Journalism in 2006. In his 20+ years in the Soda City, he founded Scene SC, an outlet covering the SC music scene, and has contributed to local publications including SCETV, Jasper Magazine, Free Times, and The Post and Courier. He currently serves on boards for One Columbia for Arts and Culture and the Jam Room Music Festival.

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The Columbia skyline | Photo by COLAtoday team

Live

Soda Citizen 101: our guide to becoming a Columbia resident

Becoming a new resident is easy with these tips.

October 21, 2024

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Travel and Outdoors

Feed Columbia birds

Putting out a tube feeder is just the beginning — we’ll get you started in the wide world of birdfeeding.

October 21, 2024

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Government

Here’s how to join a city board or commission in Columbia

Want to get involved locally but don’t know how? Browse through the City of Columbia’s city boards and commissions that have vacancies and apply.

October 18, 2024

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City

Where to trick or treat around the Soda City

Plan your perfect Halloween with this guide to a few of Columbia’s best trick-or-treat spots, featuring fun family-friendly events.

October 17, 2024

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Travel and Outdoors

Grow some shade in Columbia, SC 🌳

Join in on the initiative created by Columbia Green.

October 17, 2024

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Culture

Your preview of the Famously Hot South Carolina Pride Festival

South Carolina Pride Movement’s Pride Week is in full swing, with the Pride Festival kicking off later this week.

October 15, 2024

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Events

Film premiere celebrates the legacy of local musician Aaron Graves

“Those Lavender Whales & Friends & Family: A Community Concert Film” premieres at the Nickelodeon Theater to honor Aaron Graves’ life and legacy, featuring performances by surviving band members, friends, and family from a June 2023 tribute concert.

October 11, 2024

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City

Columbia’s most iconic landmarks

We’re giving you the 411 on the Cola’s landmarks — from the Gervais Street Bridge to Adluh Flour. Learn about their history, fun facts, and just why Soda Citizens and visitors alike find them so iconic.

October 11, 2024

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Events

Get ready for the MAD Festival in Kershaw County

The MAD Festival in Kershaw County is a five-day festival celebrating music, art, drama, and dance.

October 9, 2024

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City

This, not that: Alternatives for popular Cola attractions

Looking for things to do, but keep running across the same old stuff? Check out these local-approved (not-so) hidden gems.

October 9, 2024

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Food

Participate in Restaurant Week happening around Columbia

Enjoy local meals and deals through Restaurant Week, happening around Columbia from Thursday, Oct. 3 through Sunday, Oct. 13.

October 3, 2024

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Instagram

Hurricane Helene support and volunteer opportunities

Support Hurricane Helene relief efforts through volunteer opportunities, donations, or supporting essential resources.

October 1, 2024

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Live

A Guide to Midlands Museums

With a history dating back thousands of years, museums in the Midlands showcase the history of the area, from the earliest settlers to the the trains that transformed cities and towns.

October 1, 2024

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The Midlands continues to recover from Hurricane Helene

Midlands recovery continues after Hurricane Helene as power outages persist and flood warnings remain for local rivers and neighborhoods.

September 29, 2024

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West Columbia’s Capitol Square set for mixed-use redevelopment

Capitol Square in West Columbia is set to undergo redevelopment, adding housing, retail, and public spaces to expand walkability in the River District.

September 27, 2024

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Development

New event space opening in BullStreet District

Set to open in December, The Laundry Building offers event space and leasing opportunities for restaurants, retail, and offices in BullStreet District.

September 26, 2024

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Healthcare

Butterfly release to honor women affected by ovarian cancer

The Ovarian Cancer Coalition of Central SC will host a butterfly release on Thursday, September 26 at 5:30 p.m.

September 25, 2024

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Instagram

Columbia Chamber honors local leaders at 121st Annual Gala

The Columbia Chamber’s annual gala honors Midlands leaders for their contributions to improving the community and driving progress.

September 23, 2024

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Culture

How to celebrate an adult birthday in Columbia, SC

Just because you’re further on in life doesn’t mean you can’t have fun to recognize another trip around the sun.

September 23, 2024

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Sports

USA BMX Gold Cup Championship rolls into Lexington

The USA BMX Gold Cup Championship Southeast races into Lexington from Sept. 20-22, featuring top local riders and professionals.

September 19, 2024

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Food

Dine outdoors in Cola

Make the most of good weather by taking your meals al fresco on one of Cola’s many beautiful patios.

September 19, 2024

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Play

Fall events happening around the Midlands

Make the most of the cooler weather with this list of the best local events and activities happening this fall.

September 17, 2024

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Sports

Ray Tanner leaves role as Athletics Director

Ray Tanner will transition to senior advisor to the president as USC begins searching for a new athletics director.

September 13, 2024

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Events

What’s new at the 2024 South Carolina State Fair

This year’s fair showcases new attractions, exhibits, and improved access, and celebrates the Palmetto State’s unique culture, history, and charm.

September 13, 2024

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Culture

15 Historic street names in Columbia

Columbia, SC has 230+ years of history. In this guide, we’re diving into the city’s oldest streets and how they got their names.

September 13, 2024

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Weather

Rainy days are coming: Columbia’s 2024 fall weather forecast

Prepare for fall weather in the the Capital City with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center.

September 12, 2024

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Development

Oak Hills Golf Club set for Crystal Lagoons development

South Carolina’s first Crystal Lagoons® amenity is coming to Oak Hills in Columbia, featuring a beach-style lagoon and amenities like restaurants, parks, and luxury homes.

September 11, 2024

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Nonprofits

Columbia organization unites against bullying

Join the Columbia community on Sunday, Oct. 6, for the seventh annual Buddies, Not Bullies Rally and Parade to promote kindness, inclusion, and mental health awareness.

September 9, 2024

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Events

College GameDay returns to Columbia: Here’s how to get involved

Deep dive into this guide for fans to participate in ESPN’s College GameDay in Columbia, including event details, Gamecock Walk, and Pep Rally.

September 9, 2024

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Small Business

How a new law addresses liquor liability insurance in South Carolina

SC small businesses are facing closures due to rising liquor liability insurance premiums. A new law hopes to address that.

September 5, 2024

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