By Robin All Playing last Friday was a clear reminder that summer has arrived. As we get older, it’s important to take precautions we may have overlooked in our younger years. Start with proper sun protection. Always wear a hat—preferably one with a full brim. Visors leave the top ofContinue Reading

The one-room schoolhouse, legendary, and iconic. By Tom Poland, A Southern WriterTomPoland.net I visited the Bart Garrison Agricultural Museum of South Carolina in Pendleton a few weeks back. If you’re a product of the rural South as I am, the museum takes you on a long walk down memory lane.Continue Reading

Annie Xu, a Junior STEM Honors Academic Magnet student, represented Dutch Fork High School at the 2026 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (Regeneron ISEF) in Phoenix, Arizona. Regeneron ISEF is the world’s largest global science competition for high school students, and Xu presented her research about exosome-mediated neuroregeneration toContinue Reading

Three District Five students were recognized for their artwork as the 2025-2026 Superintendent’s Choice Award. One award is given to an elementary, middle and high school student in the District. Their work will hang permanently in the District Office. Elementary School Level: Thera Piotrowski — Harbison West Elementary Gifted andContinue Reading

After months of negotiation, Lexington Health and Cigna have reached a multi-year agreement. As a result, Lexington Medical Center and affiliated physician practices will be in-network with Cigna starting July 1, 2026. Lexington Health patients are receiving notifications via MyChart and mailed letters. Patients who previously had appointments or proceduresContinue Reading

Lisa Livingston Fusco,Senior Director of Development and Communications at Epworth Children’s Home receives a scholarship check from members of GFWC St. Andrews Woman’sClub, Gail Elfert, Missy Klopfer, Linda Davis and Kaye Hunke. The scholarship funds can be used to help one or more of the residents in Epworth’s Independent LivingContinue Reading

In recognition of Land Trust Day this Saturday, June 6, the Columbia location of Mast General Store will donate 20 percent of all sales to the Congaree Land Trust. Representatives from Congaree Land Trust will be on-site to meet with customers and share information about the organization’s work to protectContinue Reading

By Radley West Hello. It’s Tipsy. I’ve been observing the weather again. Apparently, we’ve had “a lot of rain lately,” which the humans say with concern while staring out the window. Personally, I think it’s great. Everything smells richer and there are now exciting squishy areas that did not existContinue Reading

The South Carolina Philharmonic has announced a free outdoor concert, John Williams’ America, June 6 at 7 pm at Finlay Park. Presented by the City of Columbia, the event celebrates the SC Phil’s return to the park. The program honors the legacy of composer John Williams, featuring a selection ofContinue Reading

The graduating class of 1966 at Eau Claire High School will hold their 60th reunion June 6 at Wings & Ale located on Bush River Road in Columbia. The event will run from 6 – 10 pm. Dress is casual and everyone is on their own for drinks and food.Continue Reading

West Columbia, S.C., June 2, 2026 – During the 1st half of 2026, Midlands area animal rescue organizations were awarded Promoting Animal Welfare (PAW) grants by local non-profit, Southern Paw Partners, Inc. dba Thrifty Paws Boutique in West Columbia, S.C. They include: Animal Protection League, Arcadia Animal Rescue, Basset RescueContinue Reading