Midlands voters will soon decide who will lead their cities and towns, from mayoral offices to council seats. | Photo by COLAtoday
Today is Municipal Election Day, and cities and towns across the Midlands have races on the ballot. Here’s what you need to know to make sure you’re ready to roll.
Can the Constitution Unify Americans? featuring Yuval Levin | 6-7:30 p.m. | Joseph F. Rice School of Law | Free | Join a timely discussion on how Americans can rediscover common ground in a divided era — hosted by USC’s Center for American Civic Leadership and Public Discourse.*
Thursday, Dec. 4
Holiday Fair benefiting Rotary Club of Greenville | Thursday, Dec. 4-Sunday, Dec. 7 | 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | Greenville Convention Center, Greenville | $9+ | Holiday Fair is a cherished tradition in the Upstate, bringing the joy of the season to families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts alike. Holiday Fair benefits the Rotary Club of Greenville.*
In two short years, the sight of the old Lexington 2 School District building will be transformed. | Photo provided by Brookland Commons
The Expression of Interest campaign at Brookland Commons offers a risk-free opportunity to explore whether community life is right for you.
By joining now, you’ll secure your priority place in line for apartment selection — without obligation. Experience connection, comfort, and the freedom to live on your terms.
Brush up on your French — Gameock women’s basketball is heading back to Paris. The Gamecocks will face Maryland at the Adidas Arena on Monday, Nov. 2, 2026, as part of the Oui Play doubleheader. UNC and Oklahoma will also play. VIP packages are on sale now.
Development
Columbia City Council approved taller horizons for the BullStreet District, increasing the height limit from six to 10 stories. The change gives developers more flexibility for future mixed-use projects. (The Post and Courier)
Number
$72,000 — that’s how much Village Idiot Pizza has raised for March of Dimes since launching Pizza for Preemies. The 8th annual campaign runs all November with themed events, limited-edition pies, and a Sip & Shop benefit on Monday, Nov. 17.
Civic
The COMET is offering free fixed-route and DART rides today to help Midlands residents reach polling places. Riders can plan trips using the Transit App or website. Older adults and individuals with disabilities should call 803-255-7123 and let them know they’re voting. (WLTX)
Cause
Sunset Felines will host its first Festive Fall Fundraiser on Friday, Nov. 7, at Carolina Wings in Cayce. The evening includes food, games, a raffle, and a silent auction supporting medical care for elderly and chronically ill sanctuary cats.
Civic
Columbia Water is investing $8.5 million to repair and upgrade aging sewer lines in neighborhoods including Gills Creek, Brandon Acres, and soon Kings Grant. Funded through utility revenue, the project uses trenchless technology to minimize disruptions. (WLTX)
Arts
With 94 shining stars on stage, Town Theatre’s youth cast brings Seussical Jr. to life in four shows over three days. Expect wild fun, colorful characters, and Columbia’s premier youth theatre program at its best — the Cat, the Whos, and more will leave you roaring for an encore. Snag tickets.*
Shop
This lightweight leafblower is the perfect fall tool for removing leaves from your yard, with cruise control and a quiet yet powerful motor for under $80.*
Job
Ready to kickstart your career in digital media sales remotely? We’re looking for a Sales Coordinator to fuel our fast-paced sales team, with a competitive salary, premium benefits, unlimited PTO, and real growth opportunities to boot. Apply to join our team.
Category
Business
💡 Bring your big idea to life
The faces behind the big ideas. | Photo by COLAtoday
Columbia’s entrepreneurs will get another shot at Startup Sprint, returning Friday, Nov. 14 + Saturday, Nov. 15 at the Boyd Innovation Center on Saluda Avenue in Five Points. The free 24-hour event challenges participants to go from idea to pitch as they form teams, develop products, and present concepts with help from mentors and industry experts.
Last year’s sprint drew more than 30 participants who created ideas ranging from AI-powered job tools to health-tech prototypes. This year’s event builds on that momentum, offering more opportunities to collaborate, test ideas, and connect with the local tech-startup community.
The event provides an opportunity to collaborate and learn from local mentors, who offer guidance on what it takes to turn an idea into a business. No experience required. Register by Saturday, Nov. 9.
The Buy
Your ticket to upgrading your skill set with Babbel’s fall sale. Speaking a new language opens doors — whether you’re eyeing a career change, a promotion, or just looking to enhance your life. Get 60% off Babbel’s 10-minute daily lessons and enjoy expert-designed language courses and a new AI-powered tool.*
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.
Did you know Finlay Park will have pickleball courts when it reopens on Saturday, November 15? BreakPoint Cola will host a free exhibition, open play, and clinic from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. that morning, open to everyone with equipment provided. The ribbon cutting is at 10 a.m., followed by the Jam Room Music Festival at 12 p.m.
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