We receive hundreds of thank you notes and kind messages every week. | Gif by 6AM City
Every day, we write COLAtoday with one goal: to help you feel more connected to your city. And we’re not alone — our friends across the US, from Seattle to Tampa Bay, do the same for our 6AM City communities.
We believe in the power of local media to keep the community informed, engaged, and excited about where they live. That’s why our newsletter is and will remain free.
How do we make it sustainable?
We partner with national brands and some of Columbia’s best organizations + businesses that support our mission of bringing only good news to your inbox. But we also rely on reader support.
We’re calling on you now to help support our mission with a donation.
Graphic by 6AM City
Over the next 10 days, we’re launching a reader-driven campaign to sustain what we do best:
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.*
In two short years, the site of the old Lexington School District Two building will be transformed. | Photo provided by Brookland Commons
Interested in Brookland Commons? This upcoming community is redefining senior living — and early interest has its perks.
While opening is planned for winter 2028, now’s the time to act. Through the community’s Expression of Interest campaign, you can explore Brookland Commons risk-free while securing priority placement for apartment selection.
Early depositors enjoy first choice of apartments, floor plans, and finishes, ensuring their future home perfectly fits their lifestyle and preferences.
A new med spa offering cryotherapy, IV hydration, and laser services opens Monday, Nov. 17 on Blanding Street. New Vision Med Spa is led by Dr. Lorone Washington and Kristle Garrett, aiming to support chronic care and wellness through a combination of medical services and lifestyle coaching.
Development
A seven-story apartment complex with 237 units is proposed for Catawba Street near USC’s Greek Village. Plans include a garage, pool, and spa. The City of Columbia Planning Commission will review the project by Cardinal Group Investments tomorrow, Nov. 13. (WLTX)
Real Estate
Ohio-based Silver Hills Development bought 2.43 acres at Huger + Washington Streets, once home to Kline Iron & Steel. A 250-unit apartment complex is planned for the long-vacant site. The city approved a scaled-back version in January. (The Post and Courier)
Seasonal
You could say the Vista is glowing up — Columbia’s holiday season officially begins with the 40th Annual Vista Lights, presented by Prisma Health, on Thursday, Nov. 20, from 6-10 p.m. in the heart of the Vista. Get the details.*
Coming Soon
Honor Hair Co., a new six-booth salon from local stylist Ashley Wright, is set to open on University Village Drive in Blythewood. Wright is currently completing the build-out and hiring stylists ahead of the opening around Thanksgiving. (The Voice)
Network
You’re invited to Columbia’s newest coworking destination, Venture X, on the penthouse floor at 1901 Main St. Register now for the November Speed Networking event to connect with fellow professionals and tour Venture X’s 85 private offices, meeting rooms, and event space.*
Community
NEON Joy lights up Five Points on Friday, Nov. 21 with a free laser light show, live music, and photos with Santa. The holiday celebration takes place from 6 to 8:30 p.m. and features student performances, local shopping, and family-friendly fun.
Try This
Keith Haring: Radiant Vision offers a colorful, energetic experience for visitors of all ages. From bold figures to playful motifs, the exhibition blends creativity with important social messages. Families and art lovers alike can explore Haring’s iconic works and discover how his vision continues to inspire today.*
Shop
Make something old, something new this holiday season. The State rounded up more than eight antique stores worth browsing, from West Columbia’s Old Mill Antique Mall to Cayce’s Feathered Nest. Whether you’re hunting for vintage furniture or quirky gifts, there’s a spot for you.
Plan Ahead
Hosting an event? Spread the word to our thousands of engaged subscribers. Explore our business promo portal to find the perfect fit for your budget — from standout banner ads to scroll-stopping social content.
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.
If you’re planning on traveling through Columbia Metropolitan Airport this holiday season, take a second to check out some local art.
Four Midlands artists were selected for CAE’s Art in the Airport program, presented by The Congaree Vista Guild. Susan Sullivan, Lyssa Harvey, Jason Peay, and Caroline Clark will be featured quarterly beginning in December. Coming next June, the Congaree Vista Guild will feature the artist with a special exhibit.
The Buy
The ultimate fast-charging phone charger for your car. It features two retractable cords and two additional ports so you can charge up to four devices at once. Read: No more fighting over a single car charger.
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.
When do you think the holiday season officially begins?
The Wrap
The Wrap
I haven’t had the chance to try it yet, but I’m looking forward to finding out what all the hype is about with My Cheesecake Lady at Soda City Market. Each time I walked past last Saturday, I couldn’t even see where the line ended.
}})
