🌱 Serial Shoplifter Arrested + USC School Of Law Moves Up Ranks

Hello again, Columbia! Important update: You all, as readers, have made the Columbia Daily so successful that it is my honor to announce the next stage of the newsletter. Patch is looking for a local writer and entrepreneur to take the helm of the Columbia Daily. Although I have loved getting to know this community, we want to pass the torch to someone truly local to write about Columbia long term. So if you’re interested in earning extra income while making this newsletter a more valuable resource for your neighbors, learn more and apply here.

First, today's weather:

A couple of strong t-storms. High: 70 Low: 53.

Here are the top three stories in Columbia today:

1. The Columbia Police Department has made an arrest of an accused serial shoplifter who was charged in a gun theft investigation. Christopher Cunningham was charged with assault and battery and burglary, as well as 14 counts of Shoplifting (Enhanced). He is currently being held without bail. (Press Release Desk)
2. The University of South Carolina School of Law moved up 12 places in US News & World Report’s annual rankings of the nation's law schools. The School of Law is currently ranked 84th, after having been ranked 96th last year. It is South Carolina's only law school in the top 100. (Subscription: The State)
3. A $300,000 lottery ticket was sold at a Columbia gas station but has yet to be claimed. The ticket was purchased at the Circle K #5143 at 7919 Parklane Rd. The winner has 180 days to claim their prize. (WLTX.com)

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Today in Columbia:

• Wacoal Fit For The Cure Event At The Belk in Columbiana Center (9:00 AM)

From my notebook:

• The US National Weather Service of Columbia, South Carolina tells residents to expect an approaching cold front which will bring rain and thunderstorms to the region today. (Facebook)
• The Columbia Fireflies has a ticket package that gets you into the most exciting experiences this season! The seven-game fan favorites plan gets you into the best seven home games this year, with Fireworks during postgame for six of those games! (Facebook)
• South Carolina Artists is looking forward to the Hat & Costume Contests at the Mad Hatter's Art Party! (Instagram)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Thursday! See you tomorrow morning for another update.

— Dan Casarella

About me: Dan Casarella is a writer, podcast producer, and small business development specialist who formerly worked in late-night television. He’s produced many talk segments, including with President Joe Biden, Kobe Bryant, and Chadwick Boseman. Dan studied Media Studies and Production at Temple University. He also enjoys running, painting, and the highs and lows of Philadelphia’s sports teams.