A Titan Farms peach in front of the South Carolina State House — a fitting tribute to the state’s sweet symbol. | Photo by COLAtoday
We’ve got something sweet in store this week. Across 6AM City’s SC markets — hey, GVLtoday, CHStoday, and even CLTtoday(for the Fort Mill and Rock Hill readers) — we’re celebrating all things peaches. From recipes you can make at home to the history of this juicy fruit’s impact on our economy, we’re sharing why we’re the real Peach State — sorry, not sorry, Georgia.
Monday Night Group Dance Classes | 6:15-7 p.m. | 103 Legion Plaza Rd, Columbia | $18 | Every class is beginner-friendly, and no partner or experience is necessary.
Hike for Wishes: Join the Make-A-Wish SC Trailblaze Challenge | Wednesday, July 16, Wednesday, July 16 | Times vary | Central Carolina Community Foundation | Free | Learn about this life-changing challenge that supports children with critical illnesses and how you can make a difference.*
Thursday, July 17
Spritz Mix Happy Hour | 4-7 p.m. | Columbia Museum of Art | Free | Spark your creativity and cool your jets at the build-your-own bev bar.
Friday, July 18
Pigskin Poets | 3 p.m. | The Drew Wellness Center | Free | Freshman Gamecock football players will read children’s stories and connect with young fans at this family-friendly literacy event.
Ford & Sims’ attention to detail ensures that no spot is left untouched. | Photos provided by Ford & Sims Pressure Washing
See the stunning transformation at Sweet Cream Co.? Thanks to Ford & Sims Pressure Washing, the difference is truly night and day.
This local biz specializes in cleaning awnings and glass windows, helping storefronts stand out. Whether your space needs a quick refresh or a deep clean, Ford & Sims offers a range of services that can be tailored to fit your needs.
Psst… A clean storefront can make all the difference in attracting customers.
Gather COLA raised the bar — literally. The open-air food hall “topped out” last Thursday with a celebration in the BullStreet District and plans to open this fall. Announced vendors include Bull and Bread, Coco Bowlz, Los Chicanos Jr., Smoke it Up Express + Spicy Voo-Doo. (WLTX)
Civic
After years of planning and construction, upgrades to Harden and South Main streets are complete. The new corridors now feature bike lanes, safer crossings, new medians, lighting, and traffic-calming tools aimed at better flow near the State House and Five Points. (WLTX)
Development
Columbia’s Planning Commission greenlit the final step for a 27-story, $225 million apartment tower planned at Main, Assembly, Hampton + Washington streets. The 723-unit project with a 1,500+ space parking garage is set to finish construction in 2028. (The Post and Courier)
Legacy
ColaJazz is honoring the legacy of beloved jazz vocalist and educator Eboni Ramm with a new music scholarship. Two high schoolers will receive free one-on-one jazz lessons beginning this fall.
Arts
Richland Library announced local fiber artist LaToya Thompson as its Fall 2025 Artist-in-Residence. Her “Story Quilts” project invites the community to explore identity through textiles. A free “Meet the Artist” event is set for Tuesday, July 29 at 6:30 p.m. at the Main location.
Mansion Monday
This custom Kings Grant home blends classic design with modern comfort: 5 beds, 6 baths, 12-ft ceilings, and mahogany finishes. The backyard features a heated pool, hot tub, and full outdoor kitchen pavilion. There’s even a golf cart bay for your neighborhood cruiser.
Outdoors
Grab your paddle and join the South Carolina 7 expedition team on Thursday, July 17 at 9 a.m. for a guided kayak adventure through Sparkleberry Swamp. Explore one of SC’s most unique ecosystems, spot local wildlife, and learn how you can help protect these natural wonders. More details this way.*
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Local leaders and the teams behind Gather COLA signed the beam last week as the new food hall moves closer to opening this fall. The BullStreet District has been coming along slowly but surely, and it’s exciting to see everything finally fall into place. I tried a burger from Spicy Voo-Doo — it was indeed spicy, and I would order it again.