Plus, new student apartment amenities.
 
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“Hey ChatGPT...”

Cities most like Columbia, according to AI
AI COLA.png
Would you recognize this AI-generated rendering of the Columbia skyline? | Image courtesy of Dall E 3
With peak summer tourist season, we’ve got travel on the brain. Some people might be looking to escape to the other side of the world — may we suggest one of our sister cities — while others might be looking for a quick weekend getaway. Either way, it can be nice to find a little familiarity wherever you roam.

We asked ChatGPT to help us find travel destinations similar to Cola. Here’s what the artificial intelligence program said.

Important note: Anything written by AI will be in italics for clarity.

Knoxville TN.png

This AI-generated rendering of Knoxville does have a few similarities to Cola.

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Image courtesy of Dall E 3

Which US city is most like Columbia, SC?

Knoxville, TN

Educational Institutions | Knoxville, like Columbia, is home to a major university (University of Tennessee), which significantly influences the city’s culture, economy, and vibrancy.

Downtown Revitalization | Both cities have undergone significant downtown revitalization, focusing on enhancing public spaces, promoting local businesses, and creating vibrant, walkable urban areas.

Cultural and Outdoor Activities | Knoxville and Columbia both offer a rich array of cultural and outdoor activities, including music festivals, art galleries, and proximity to natural attractions like rivers and parks.

Adelaide, Australia COLA COMBO.png

An AI imagination of Adelaide, Australia and Cola mixed together.

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Image courtesy of Dall E 3

Which international city is most like Columbia, SC?

Adelaide, Australia

Educational Institutions | Adelaide, like Columbia, is a major educational hub with multiple universities and colleges, contributing to a vibrant student population and academic culture.

Cultural Festivals and Events | Both cities host numerous cultural festivals and events throughout the year, promoting arts, music, and community engagement, such as the Adelaide Festival and Columbia’s various music and arts festivals.

Green Spaces and Outdoor Activities | Adelaide and Columbia both offer extensive green spaces and outdoor activities, including parks, botanical gardens, and access to nearby natural attractions, fostering an active and nature-oriented lifestyle.
Asked

What other US city do you think is most like Columbia?
Take on AI
 
Events
Monday, July 8
  • The Monday Book Group | Monday, July 8 | 6-7 p.m. | Richland Library Southeast, Southeast Social Meeting Lab 1, 7421 Garners Ferry Rd., Columbia | Free | The book group discussion will be about this month’s title, “Klara and the Sun” by Kazoo Ishiguro.
Tuesday, July 9
  • “Three Bears & A Big Bad Wolf?” | Tuesday, July 9 | 3-4 p.m. | Richland Library Sandhills, 763 Fashion Dr., Columbia | Free | Enjoy an unexpected mix of storybook characters who find themselves wrapped up in a brand new adventure.
  • SC Philharmonic presents Chamber Crawl | Tuesday, July 9 | 6 p.m. | Columbia Craft Brewing Company, 520 Greene St., Columbia | Free | Catch the season’s final performance of the series, bringing small ensembles to your favorite neighborhood watering holes.
Thursday, July 11
  • ZOSO: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience | Thursday, July 11 | 7-10 p.m. | Icehouse Amphitheater, 107 W Main St., Lexington | $13-$35 | Come hear Led Zeppelin favorites like “Whole Lotta Love” and “Stairway to Heaven.”
  • “The Prom” | Thursday, July 11| 8 p.m. | Trustus Theatre, 520 Lady St., Columbia | $35 | Four fading Broadway stars are in desperate need of a new stage look to snag the spotlight in this fun musical.
Friday, July 12
  • Nashville Nights Concert Series | Friday, July 12 | 6 p.m. | Steel Hands Brewing, 2350 Foreman St., Cayce | Free | The summer series welcomes talented singer-songwriters traveling from Nashville, TN for special live music performances.
100+ more events
Click here to have your event featured.
 
Edu

5 South Carolina scholarships and grants to know about
A college graduate posing with his robe on with a dog.
Lottery Tuition Assistance allowed Caden to attend USC Union while obtaining two associate degrees + bachelor’s degree. | Photo courtesy of the South Carolina Education Lottery
Since 2002, most of the South Carolina Education Lottery’s proceeds have been set aside for state-provided scholarships to support students pursuing higher education. We’re talking more than $6 billion in assistance.

Keep reading to find out what’s available and who’s eligible.

📝 Lottery-funded scholarships

South Carolina offers numerous need-based and merit-based scholarships and grants funded (but not decided) by the Lottery, including:
  • SC Hope | $2,800
  • LIFE | $5,000
  • Palmetto Fellows | $6,700 (year 1); $7,500 (years 2-4)
  • Lottery Tuition Assistance | Financial aid varies
  • SC Need-Based Grant | $3,500 (full-time)

🎓 Eligibility requirements

Wondering if you or a student you know is eligible to receive Lottery-funded financial aid? First, applicants must prove South Carolina residency.

Then, students must meet the qualifying criteria for whichever financial aid they’re interested in applying for. The qualifications vary for each scholarship + grant. Think: GPA, test scores, need, and more.
See the specifics
News Notes
Development
  • St. Louis-based developer Subtext is constructing Verve Columbia, a nearly 700-bed student apartment complex at the corner of Huger and Blossom Streets. Set to open by fall 2026, it will feature Gen Z-focused amenities like a content creation studio, study pods, and a game lounge. (The State)
Community
  • Columbia parking rates are set to increase by January 2025, ending the $8 overdue meter fee. Exact rates and implementation dates haven’t been shared yet, but will match similar markets. This is the first rate adjustment since 2006. (The State)
Number
  • $160 million — that’s the amount of revenue that USC’s athletics earned in 2023, ranking the Gamecocks No. 21 in the country according to Sportico. Clemson came in at No. 13 with $195.9 million.
Regional
  • The town of Winnsboro is moving forward with downtown revitalization, securing $2 million in state funds. Plans include transforming vacant storefronts and revamping Thespian Hall, which is set to receive another $1 million in next year’s state budget. (WLTX)
Health
  • Prisma Health is investing $41 million in 1,500 Hillrom smart beds to improve patient care. These advanced beds will boost safety, comfort, and clinical workflows. The rollout is underway, with completion expected by mid-September. (Columbia Business Report)
Sports
  • The Gamecocks have reasons for optimism heading into this football season. Go beyond the scoreboard and behind the scenes of the Gamecocks with Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
    Try This
    • Dive into summer fun at the Meeting Street Artisan Market, happening every Thursday in July + August. From 4-8 p.m., support local artisans and shop their unique creations (think: handmade crafts, artwork, baked goods, and jewelry) at the Interactive Art Park. Browse upcoming vendors.*
     
    Seasonal

    🍹 Join the Grinch for a tropical oasis getaway
    A mug in the shape of the Grinch's head in front of green string lights.
    The Grinch is back with some pretty mean cocktails. | Photos provided by Boku Kitchen + Saloon
    Imagine this: The Grinch, Jimmy Buffet, Bob Marley, and The Beach Boys open a bar. That’s the vibe of How the Grinch Stole Summer, a tropical Christmas in July pop up at Boku Kitchen + Saloon.

    Now through Wednesday, July 31, enjoy a festive lunch or dinner featuring:
    • Creative TikTok-worthy cocktails
    • Illuminated palm trees + beachy decor
    • Green lights everywhere — you can see them from Huger Street.
    Reservations are recommended to hang with the Grinch.
    Book your table
    The Buy

    The Buy 7.08.24 (Affiliate)
    Rapid onset cannabis gummies that keep selling out. Just one gummy can have you feeling effects within five minutes. Get 20% off your first order with code FIRST20.*
    Legalities in your state may vary. Providers and services contained in this newsletter do not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by 6AM City. It is advised to read a company’s terms & conditions and instructions for use before trying new products.
     
    The Wrap
     
    David Stringer wearing a dark button-down shirt

    Today’s edition by:
    David
    From the editor
    Have you seen the new “Columbia” mural on the side of Cromer’s? It’s in a perfect location for folks to see as they drive into downtown from North Columbia. It was created by @girlswhopaintmurals, whose touch you can see all across SC.
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