Plans include restoring historic architectural features like a second-story balcony and bricked-in windows. | Rendering via Studio 2LR
A new chapter is in the works for one of the Vista’s most historic blocks. Local developer Avant Holdings plans to restore and redevelop the former Whit-Ash buildings — nearly 48,000 sqft spread across three early 1900s structures — into a mixed-use destination with retail, dining, offices, and potentially loft-style residences.
To support the project, the team is pursuing federal and state historic tax credits, along with the City of Columbia’s Bailey Bill program, to help fund the restoration of the National Register-listed properties that Whit-Ash Furnishings called home for over 50 years.
Asked
Asked
What type of business originally operated out of the 911 Gervais Street building in the early 1900s?
A. County liquor dispensary B. Pharmacy C. Clothing store D. Train depot
Soda City Poetry Festival | Friday, June 27-Saturday, June 28 | 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. | Richland Library Main | Celebrate the written word with readings, workshops, and performances from local and regional poets.
Nashville Nights | 6 p.m. | Steel Hands Brewing, Cayce | Free admission | The summer series continues with Paul McDonald and Leah Blevins.
Columbia Fireflies vs. Myrtle Beach Pelicans | 7:05 p.m. | Segra Park | $8+ | It’s First Responders Night: Join the Fireflies as they honor all first responders of the Midlands.*
The Other Congaree Forest | 1-2:30 p.m. | Congaree National Park, Hopkins | Free | Join a ranger on a guided hike through the upland forest.
Columbia Fireflies vs. Myrtle Beach Pelicans | 6:05 p.m. | Segra Park | $8+ | Light up the night with the Fireflies during Glow Night, featuring a special LED bracelet giveaway for the first 1,000 fans in attendance.*
Sunday, June 29
Hops and Shops: Cheers to Pride | 12-5 p.m. | Columbia Craft Brewing | Free | Shop for quirky finds, original art, and handmade oddities.
Columbia Fireflies vs. Myrtle Beach Pelicans | 5:05 p.m. | Segra Park | $8+ | It’s Mason’s Birthday: Join Mason, the Fireflies’ mascot, and some of his friends to celebrate his big day at Segra Park.*
Games kick off between 6 to 7:30 p.m. every Wednesday. | Photos provided by YMCA of Columbia
Recess is back — and better than ever.
Enter: The Recess League, a six-week adult sports league hosted by the Northwest Family YMCA. Games include kickball, wiffleball, pickleball, volleyball, spikeball, and dodgeball, played every Wednesday night from July 16 to Aug. 20.
Open to ages 18+ of all skill levels, this is a fun way to get moving, meet new people, and relive your favorite childhood games.
Ready to play? Final team rosters will be released on Monday, July 14.
Gamecock history made. Columbia native Collin Murray-Boyles became the program’s first-ever NBA lottery pick Wednesday night, going No. 9 overall to the Toronto Raptors. The sophomore forward led USC in nearly every stat category during a standout season. (Gamecocks Online)
Coming Soon
George Robert’s Wine and Raw Bar is opening a second location in a revitalized Cayce shopping center on State Street, across from Brookland-Cayce High. The new spot will serve oysters, lobster rolls, artisan pizzas, and gourmet burgers and is expected to open around the end of the year.
Announced
Stop looking for the remote control time travel — just mark your calendar. Adam Sandler’s “You’re My Best Friend Tour” hits Colonial Life Arena on Tuesday, Sept. 10. Tickets go on sale today at 12 p.m.
Closing
Bank of America will close its downtown branch at the corner of Gervais and Sumter streets next May, citing a decline in in-person use. Customers who rely on that location can find the nearest branch about five minutes away at 2111 Devine St. in Five Points. (The Post and Courier)
Outdoors
It’s getting hot out there, so The Post and Courier took a look at how the animals at Riverbanks Zoo keep cool — think mud baths, Gatorade for gorillas, and ice blocks bigger than your trash can. The story also includes tips for summer zoo visits, like sticking to indoor exhibits and staying hydrated.
Festival
Barbecue legend Steven Raichlen will emcee the 2026 Southeastern BBQ Showdown, set for April 24-25, at Gamecock Park. The bestselling author and TV host is known for “The Barbecue! Bible” and series like “Project Fire” and “Barbecue University.”
Wellness
All is Well Pilates is hosting an outdoor preview class under the market lights at Re•Find this evening at 6 p.m. Led by Michaela Leung, the 30-minute session kicks off Made With Cola Love’s new activator series spotlighting local small businesses.
Mommy, mama, mamacita, mom... your health journey deserves a partner as reliable as your “Love Island” viewing schedule. Discover how Lexington Medical Center supports moms through every chapter.*
Featured Deal
Athleta’s Semi-Annual Sale is on. Take up to 70% off bestsellers, workout staples, and everyday favorites built to move with you. Hurry — the sale ends Sunday, June 29.*
Post of the Day
It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s... a meteorite? Social media across the Southeast lit up yesterday with videos of a fiery ball streaking through the sky around 12:21 p.m. The video above was taken near Columbia, and satellite lightning data recorded a streak over the Virginia-North Carolina border.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
West Columbia has a new dinner spot — and it’s already a local favorite. Café Strudel launches its new dinner service today at 5 p.m. The evening menu includes surf and turf options, country-fried steak, and pasta. Pro tip: Order the duck fat fries for the table.
}})
