The State House dome under a clear blue Carolina sky. | Photo by COLAtoday
Last year, SC secured $8.19 billion in capital investments, marking a significant milestone in its economic development. Two recent announcements highlight the region’s economic growth, bringing jobs, and cutting-edge technology to the area.
Industry: Beverage manufacturing Impact: $99.6 million investment + 94 new jobs
Cardiff Products, a FL-based company with roots in Canada, is opening a state-of-the-art co-packaging facility at the Saxe Gotha Industrial Park in Lexington County.
Industry: Energy storage solutions Impact: Focused on building business development and product teams
The Swiss-based company is introducing sodium-ion battery technology to the US, choosing Columbia as its headquarters after a six-month evaluation of Southeastern cities.
On Saturday at the US Council of Mayors Conference, Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann will join PHENOGY CEO Peter Braun to discuss “Clean Energy Tax Credits for Communities.” The panel will explore best practices in sustainable energy storage solutions, offering insight into how federal tax incentives can drive innovation and investment in clean energy projects across the country.
Columbia Art Community Meetup | 5-7 p.m. | Stormwater Studios | Free | Celebrate Columbia’s art scene with a welcoming space to share, connect, and engage with fellow creatives.
Blues at the Hoot | 8-11 p.m. | The Hoot | $5+ | Join the Palmetto Swing Dance Association for a night of dancing, delicious food, and drinks, starting with a beginner lesson at 8 p.m.
1600 Main Street Restaurant Week | Thu., Jan. 9 - Sun., Jan. 19 | 11 a.m. | The Grand on Main, 1621 Main St, Columbia | From gourmet delicacies to comfort food favorites, LTC Hospitality’s venues have exclusive lineups of featured menus for South Carolina Restaurant Week.*
Friday, Jan. 17
Morelia Gourmet Paletas Grand Opening | Friday, Jan. 17-Saturday, Jan. 18 | 12-7 p.m. | Morelia Gourmet Paletas | Free | Kick off the weekend with free paletas, live music, and customizable sweet treats.
Tom’s Elton Tribute: The Rocket Man Experience | Friday, Jan. 17 | 7:30-9:30 p.m. | Koger Center for the Arts | $15+ | Hear this Elton John tribute band perform iconic hits like “Rocket Man” and “Your Song,” in a spectacular show featuring costumes and the vocals of Tom Cridland.
Saturday, Jan. 18
Winter Oyster Roast | 5-9 p.m. | Blossom Plant and Produce | $25+ | Enjoy oysters, live music, plants, community, and more at the market’s inaugural event.
Donut Fest | 12-10 p.m. | Steel Hands Brewing | Price of purchase | Treat yourself to a day of donuts, beer, games, and live music — because cheat days are worth celebrating.
Make reservations at one (or more) of the 1600 Block’s eateries for an unforgettable Restaurant Week. | Photo provided by LTC Hospitality
Forks ready, appetites set. Restaurant Week is here, and the 1600 block is featuring delectable can’t-miss specials at:
1624 Bistro: Treat yourself to the perfect pairing of soup and sandwich.
Hanabi Hibachi & Sushi: Offering a three-course experience that includes fresh sushi, your choice of savory hibachi chicken or shrimp, and their signature cookie wontons.
Smoked: Enjoy a three-course meal for $65, featuring dishes like seared tuna and a delicious pear and prosciutto salad.
Robinson Room: Indulge in a $40 tasting menu in a stylish, intimate setting.
The Grand: Savor an elegant selection of dishes, including a bourbon-glazed short rib.
Guests can enjoy these exclusive specials now through Sunday, Jan. 19.
Gamecock quarterback LaNorris Sellers was named the 2024 National Freshman Offensive Player of the Year after his outstanding year leading the team to nine wins. Sellers recently inked a deal, thought to be in the $2.7 million range, with Garnet Trust to return to the team for his sophomore season. (247 Sports)
Number
1.36 million. That’s the record-setting number of passengers who traveled through Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) in 2024, surpassing the 2019 record. With Allegiant Airlines launching nonstop flights to Orlando/Sanford and Fort Lauderdale in May 2025, even more growth is expected.
Arts
Richland Library welcomes Brittany M. Watkins as its newest Artist-in-Residence. Watkins, a multi-disciplinary artist and director of Goodall Gallery at Columbia College, is known for large-scale installations and her contributions to contemporary art in the South. She will lead interactive workshops through June 2025.
Cause
The United Way of the Midlands is looking for volunteers for the 2025 Point-in-Time Homelessness Count on Wednesday, January 22. Volunteers will help document homelessness, connect individuals with resources, and contribute to data that shapes policies and funding.
Listen
Were the Clemson Tigers the only ACC Team that looked good in postseason play? Go beyond the scoreboard and behind the scenes of the Clemson Tigerswith Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Finance
Did you know some credit cards can actually help you get out of debt faster? (It sounds wild, but it’s true.) The secret: Find a credit card with a “0% intro APR” period for balance transfers. This is hands-down one of the best of 2025.*
Volunteer
Did you know MLK Day is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service? Join AmeriCorps this MLK Day to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King and help your community by volunteering on Monday, Jan. 20. Find volunteer opportunities to serve locally.*
Category
Health
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The Buy
The Buy
A pair of 14K gold plated heart hoops. The huggie-sized earrings are hypoallergenic and tarnish-resistant. Psst — they’re also the perfect Valentine’s Day accessory.
Here’s your sign to become a member of the SC State Museum. Tickets for “Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume” are on sale now for SC State Museum members. Opening Saturday, May 3, the exhibition features 70+ iconic Disney costumes, including Cinderella and Maleficent. Members also get an exclusive preview on May 2.
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