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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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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Williams Brice

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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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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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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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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Danielle Johnson

Education

Historic funding boosts USC’s impact on statewide research

USC secured $309 million in sponsored research awards in 2024, supporting key initiatives in energy, healthcare, and statewide innovation.

September 3, 2024

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Development

Capital City/Lake Murray Country Tourism celebrates successful year

CCLMC highlighted a successful year in tourism, with major events and expansions planned, including the Great Race in 2025.

August 30, 2024

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History

Columbia’s 1999 time capsule

What was Columbia like at the turn of the millennium? We took a look back at the final year of the 20th century to see what life was like pre-Y2K.

August 30, 2024

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Michael Beausoleil

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Sports

Gamecock football nicknames and pronunciations

Practice these pronunciations and remember these nicknames so you’ll be ready to cheer on the Gamecocks.

August 28, 2024

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Culture

Where to sing karaoke in Columbia

A guide to the best karaoke spots in Columbia, featuring venues for singing, fun themes, and private rooms.

August 28, 2024

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Music

Columbia Museum of Art launches lunchtime folk series

Enjoy local folk music at Boyd Plaza every Friday this fall from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. during the Lunchtime Folk Music Series.

August 22, 2024

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Culture

Unwritten rules of Columbia

From unspoken rules to commuting, we’ve compiled tips, tricks, and fun memories we share as locals who know the city like the backs of our hands. Consider this your official list of unofficial Columbia rules.

August 22, 2024

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Development

Here’s what’s replacing Richland Mall in Forest Acres

Forest Acres unveiled renderings for a six-acre park on the former Richland Mall site, featuring an amphitheater, playground, and green spaces.

August 20, 2024

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Culture

Columbia Museum of Art to host major exhibition of French modern art

A major French modern art exhibition featuring works by Monet and Matisse comes to the Columbia Museum of Art this fall.

August 16, 2024

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