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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City

Pack your bags for one of these unique places to stay in and around Columbia

From cottages to treehouses, our area is full of unique places to stay that offer guests a break from traditional motels and hotels.

November 14, 2024

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Samantha Robertson

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City

Strange sightings in South Carolina

From lizards the size of dogs, a Bigfoot, and dozens of monkeys, here’s what people across South Carolina are claiming to see.

November 12, 2024

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Culture

COLAtoday’s 2024 holiday gift guide: 90+ gifts for everyone on your list

Including gifts for neighbors, foodies, significant others, homebodies, students, and gifts under $20.

November 8, 2024

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Sarah Leonhardt

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Events

Meet Read Freely Fest, South Carolina’s new book festival

Richland Library will host the inaugural Read Freely Fest featuring author talks, book signings, and performances.

October 29, 2024

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Events

A Halloween music and pizza party at Graduate by Hilton

Eric Weiner, founder of The Wild Honey Pie, discusses their Columbia pop-up event, blending pizza, music, and Halloween fun at Graduate by Hotel.

October 25, 2024

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History

TalkDeath’s Halloween Elmwood Cemetery scavenger hunt

Explore Elmwood Cemetery’s history during the TalkDeath Halloween Scavenger Hunt on Sunday, Oct. 27 at 2:30 p.m.

October 23, 2024

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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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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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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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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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