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Event Spotlight
🏀 Watch the bracket drop
A view of the Columbia Museum of Art from Boyd Plaza. | Photo by COLAtoday
Photo by COLAtoday
Here’s a chance for Gamecock fans to be part of the party on Selection Sunday. South Carolina women’s basketball and Rae Rose Media are hosting a Selection Sunday watch party at the Columbia Museum of Art on Sunday, March 15, where fans can watch the NCAA Tournament bracket reveal.
The evening runs from 6 to 10 p.m., with a DJ, photo ops, strolling magician, drinks, and games outside before the Selection Show airs at 8 p.m. The Gamecocks are widely expected to land as a No. 1 seed, so fans will be watching to see which region their tournament road could lead and who they’ll face in the opening rounds.
Tickets start at $50, with deluxe and VIP options available, with proceeds benefiting the women’s basketball enhancement fund. Don’t forget to tell your friends to look out for you on ESPN Sunday night.
A new chapter in senior living is unfolding in West Columbia. | Photo provided by Brookland Commons
Senior living is getting a thoughtful refresh in West Columbia.Brookland Commons is introducing a community designed around connection, purpose, and modern comfort — not the traditional, one-size-fits-all model many people expect.
Newly released floor plans are offering the first real glimpse inside life at Brookland Commons. Thoughtfully designed layouts balance openness and privacy, giving future residents flexible spaces that feel both functional and refined. It’s where smart design meets everyday livability.
Those residences are part of a broader vision rooted in intentional community design. Shared spaces are created to spark conversation and activity, while private homes provide comfort, independence, and style.
For families across the Midlands, Brookland Commons represents more than new housing. It reflects a shift toward senior living that prioritizes connection, dignity, and a true sense of belonging.
Paradise by the Koger Center light. The touring production of “Bat Out Of Hell – The Musical” lands Thursday, May 14 at the Koger Center for the Arts. The rock musical features songs by Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf. Presale begins today, March 12 at 10 a.m., with public sales on Friday, March 13.
Seasonal
The Midlands Spring Plant and Flower Festival returns Thursday, April 9 through Sunday, April 12 at the SC State Farmers Market. Shop plants, garden supplies, Certified South Carolina produce, and spring decor, plus get advice from Master Gardeners. Admission and parking are free.
Film
SouthernGauge and the Nickelodeon Theatre will screen “Yard Work is Hard Work: The Films of Jodie Mack” on Saturday, March 21 at 1:30 p.m. The program features seven experimental shorts in digital and 16mm formats, followed by a Zoom Q+A with filmmaker Jodie Mack as part of the theater’s annual Femme Film Fest.
Community
Keep the Midlands Beautiful is hosting its March Spotless Service Saturday cleanup on March 21, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., near the Denny Terrace neighborhood off Monticello Road. Volunteers will meet across from Thomas Concrete for a litter cleanup, held in conjunction with PalmettoPride as the statewide SC Sweep kickoff.
Kids
Say hello to Eddie. Children’s musician Rebbie Rye will host interactive music and dance sessions at EdVenture Children’s Museum on Thursday, March 19 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. The performance is part of a statewide tour ahead of Children’s Museum Week, Monday, April 6, through Saturday, April 11.
Festival
Cayce’s favorite street party is back. On Saturday, March 21, Soirée on State takes over the Cayce River Arts District from 2-8 p.m. with live music, local art, food, and family fun. Learn more + check out the lineup.*
Community
Legendary coach Frank Beamer takes the stage Wednesday, March 18 at 6 p.m. at the Koger Center for the Arts for Reflections on a Football Legacy. Hosted by USC’s Institute of Southern Studies, this free McNair Conversation explores his impact on football in the south. Pre-registration required. Register and attend.*
Arts
Two local artists were selected for a national America 250 art initiative supported by the National Endowment for the Arts. Todd Baxter and Gretchen Parker will create commissioned works through the IAFE Education Foundation, with plans to highlight the recognition during the South Carolina State Fair.
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Category
Arts
Surprise honor at the ballet
William Starrett is surprised with the Order of the Palmetto during bows at South Carolina Ballet’s Sapphire Ballet & Gala. | Photo via SC Ballet
SC Ballet’s 65th anniversary performance ended with an unexpected moment for the company’s longtime leader.
As performers took their bows last Saturday following the Sapphire Ballet & Gala at the Koger Center for the Arts, CEO and Artistic Director William Starrett was surprised on stage with the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor.
The award was presented by former Prima Ballerina Mariclare Miranda and board president Jared Smith, recognizing Starrett’s decades of artistic leadership and service to the state. Starrett has led the company for 40 years, guiding its growth from Columbia City Ballet — founded in 1961 — to the statewide organization now known as SC Ballet.
Today, the company presents productions across the Southeast and reaches more than 20,000 students annually through its Educational Outreach & Engagement Series.
The Buy
The perfect spring date night outfit doesn’t exi … It does, and it’s even under $200. Shop the look:
👗 This floral maxi dress features a flattering A-line silhouette and ruffle sleeve design.
👡 Pair it with these cloud-like ballet flats that don’t sacrifice comfort for style.
👛 Priced at under $25, this vegan leather saddle bag adds a touch of understated elegance.
💎 Complete the look with this matching 18K gold bracelet stack and necklace set — both over 70% off.
The azaleas will start blooming any day now, a sign that the Masters in Augusta is just around the corner. Everplay Sports and Social Club is getting in on the fun again this year, hosting the Masters of Putt Putt on Saturday, March 28, from 10:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Frankie’s Fun Park. Registration is open now for the charitable event.
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