Voting has always been especially important to me whether it be National, State, or City/County. We had a record turnout in the Presidential Election last November and Tuesday we concluded our Mayoral/City Council runoff for my beloved City of Columbia. Some people today are sad, and some are happy, but it is my belief that either of the candidates for the Mayoral race would have done an excellent job! I am glad I passed onto my two sons the importance of voting and am proud of them for taking their civic responsibility seriously!

Contrary to what many naysayers contend, I believe Columbia is a wonderful City to work, live and play. Frankly, I would not live anywhere else! Columbia is often compared to Greenville or Charleston, but we are not Greenville or Charleston, we are uniquely Columbia! While they are both fine cities (I spent last weekend in Charleston and had a wonderful time), we have assets in Columbia that neither Greenville nor Charleston have. Columbia’s food scene is improving, and the quality of life is fabulous. Here’s to the beauty and vitality of the Midlands going forward!