How We Go Columbia: A special edition

When staff members of The State aren’t working hard to give you the best and latest news on the Midlands, they’re enjoying their life here.

For this special edition, We asked members of The State’s staff to share their favorite ways to Go Columbia. And what recommendations: The Midland’s three river waterways, tasty restaurants and shops, popular festivals and events, and the city’s newest ways to have fun.

Photo gallery: Tim Dominick’s favorite place to play, Lake Murray, in photos.

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Where will you find some of our staff writers on any Saturday? Staff writer Sarah Ellis will be at Soda City Market. Here, she shares her idea of a Soda City Saturday. Web developer Chris Hessert relishes a monthly tradition at the Original Pancake House. Veteran reporter Clif LeBlanc finds comfort in the comfort food at Zorba’s at Seven Oaks Shopping Center.

Also: Online producer and crime reporter Harrison Cahill on his favorite barbecue in Columbia; political reporter Cassie Cope’s budget dining tips.

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Take our quiz: Match the featured food with the Columbia restaurant.

Staff photographer Tim Dominick considers himself blessed to have Lake Murray nearby; of course, he has wonderful photos of the area to share. Visual journalist Tracy Glantz prefers quiet moments along on the city’s three rivers.

Also: Features editor Dawn Kujawa on the grandeur of Congaree National Park; Copy chief Kevin McLendon on the beauty of Sumter’s Swan Lake and Iris Garden.

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Quiz: What is your favorite Midlands waterway?

At Carolina Stadium , environmental writer Sammy Fretwell can clear his head while watching the Gamecocks play baseball. Bonus: The top ballparks in the Midlands. Political writer Andy Shain prefers the confines of a local pub to watch his beloved Arsenal soccer matches.

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Digital sports reporter Aaron Ransdell loves a nice locally craft beer. Good thing the selections are expanding here. Gamecocks reporter Josh Kendall loves the kid-friendly parts of town. News content editor Deepika Rao-Feit relishes the intimate setting of the Nickelodeon theater. And page designer Kelly Cobb keeps her daughter fit in this famously hot town by cooling off at The Plex ice rink.

Also: Copy editor Bobby Bryant finds his inner geek at Silver City Comics; Staff writer Roddie Burris on the growth of Main Street.

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Poll: What’s still on your Columbia bucket list?

This story was originally published July 26, 2015 at 6:41 PM with the headline "How We Go Columbia: A special edition."