Trader Joe’s will open its second Columbia-area store on Thursday, Dec. 12 on Harbison Boulevard. A 9 a.m. ribbon-cutting will kick off the celebration. The store hired 50+ local crew members and will participate in the company’s Neighborhood Shares Program. (Cola Daily)
Coming Soon
Black Dog Pizza is opening the first week of January on Main Street in the former home of The Woody. From the team behind Hendrix, Jake’s, and No Name Deli, the shop will serve Neo-Neapolitan pies made with a new $50,000 oven. (Free Times)
History
The McKissick Museum on the Horseshoe at USC will close Monday, Dec. 8 ahead of a major renovation. The 1940s building will be updated to include classrooms, lounges, and an embedded exhibition space. The renovation is part of the campus core revitalization.
Sports
Four-star Dutch Fork defensive end Julian Walker flipped his commitment from Michigan to South Carolina on Day 2 of the Early Signing Period. He is the No. 85 overall recruit in the country and is the son of Gamecocks assistant strength coach Jamil Walker.
Development
Sumter is investing $4 million into upgrades at Swan Lake Iris Gardens ahead of its 100-year anniversary. The project includes a redesigned north entrance and a new inclusive Sister Wimberly Playground. Work begins in early 2026 and is expected to finish in 2027.
State
The South Carolina Civil Rights Museum received the 2025 David W. Robinson Catalyst Award from Central Carolina Community Foundation. Honored for its digital innovation, education tools, and upcoming Railroad Corner expansion, the Museum preserves SC’s civil rights legacy.
Home
Do you have one (or two) rooms you only enter once a year, squint at like an archeological dig, and then quietly back out of? It might be time to “right-size.” Learn more.*
Pets
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Columbia is one step closer to connecting its riverwalks. Phase 2 of the Saluda Riverwalk has begun, linking the existing Saluda Riverwalk and Boyd Island to the Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park. Concrete pathways are complete, with boardwalk sections to follow.
A construction bid from earlier this year called for the greenway to include lighting, call boxes, overlooks, and signage.
The Buy
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If you beat me to this, save a wreath for me. Boone Fox Farm is hosting its final Farm Stand of the season on Saturday morning from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Holiday Wreaths are available for purchase with prices ranging from $55 to $75. No preorders, so get there early before they sell out.