Morning Columbia! We've got the scoop on the latest happenings in town. Read on to get looped in. ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Submissions Open for Oct. 10 & 11 Film Festival and 3 more events.
Today's riddle: What did the tree say when Spring arrived? 🤔 (Answer below!)
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1. Columbia police expand and modernize drone program to enhance officer and community safety (wltx.com subscription) — Columbia police are rolling out new high-tech drones to respond to crimes, monitor large gatherings, and boost officer and resident safety across the city. The department says flights are recorded, audited, and limited to situations where aerial support is needed, and residents can request reviews if they're concerned about how drones are used.
2. Incarcerated SC man ran drug network from prison, federal prosecutors say (thestate.com) — Federal prosecutors say a West Columbia man ran a major fentanyl and cocaine network from behind bars, with a Columbia supplier and others helping move drugs through the Midlands. Multiple defendants have now received lengthy federal sentences after an investigation led by the FBI's Columbia office and local sheriff's departments.
3. South Carolina Preservation Network aims to save historic black schools (wistv.com) — A new preservation network based in Columbia is working to save historic Black school buildings across the Midlands and the rest of South Carolina, starting with local community groups. Led by the Central Carolina Community Foundation and USC's Center for Civil Rights History and Research, the effort aims to share resources, boost funding, and revive long-underused schools that once anchored Black neighborhoods.
4. South Carolina Lottery Pick 3, Pick 4 results for Aug. 27, 2026 (greenvilleonline.com) — If you hit it big in the South Carolina Education Lottery, you'll likely be heading to Columbia, where both the claims mailing address and headquarters handle most larger prizes. This update lists the Aug. 27 winning numbers and explains exactly how, where, and when Columbia-area offices process payouts based on the amount you win.
5. Gray Notches Three Hits, RiverDogs Drop Series Opener 4-2 (holycitysinner.com) — Columbia baseball fans saw the Fireflies edge the Charleston RiverDogs 4–2 at Segra Park, with a late home run and two-run shot sealing the win. The series continues in Columbia with another matchup scheduled for tomorrow night, while Charleston has already clinched a postseason berth and is selling playoff tickets for September games.
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Ok Columbia! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: What a re-leaf! (Thank you Flo G. for sending it in!)
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