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Event Spotlight
Baseball returns to Segra Park in February for the Carolina vs. Clemson series. | Photo via the Columbia Fireflies
Batter up — the Battle at BullStreet returns to Segra Park on Feb. 28 as the Gamecocks face the Clemson Tigers.
Hosted by the Columbia Fireflies, the annual rivalry has set attendance records in all three previous games at Segra Park. After Clemson pulled out a 12-inning win in 2024, Carolina will get another crack at defending the local turf. First pitch is set for 3 p.m., with tickets going on sale to the public Thursday, Jan. 22.
Asked
What’s stopping you from donating blood?
A. I don’t have time B. I’m afraid of needles C. It’s too far or inconvenient D. Other
The one weight-loss mistake most people make in January
Presented by Lexington Health
Embrace the journey with steady steps for sustainable weight loss. | Photo provided by Lexington Health
January is a popular time to set New Year’s resolutions — especially weight-loss goals. Research shows most people gain about one pound between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. While that may not sound like much, that extra pound often sticks around, and over time, those small gains can add up.
For those looking to lose weight this year, experts agree: slow and steady wins the race. While rapid weight loss may seem appealing, losing one to two pounds per week is more sustainable and more likely to last long term. Extreme dietary restrictions can lead to burnout and weight regain once they become difficult to maintain.
A gradual approach allows people to build realistic habits. Losing one to two pounds per week typically requires burning 500-1,000 more calories per day through a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Helpful strategies include:
Eating more colorful vegetables
Choosing whole foods
Avoiding skipped meals
Eating slowly
Staying active throughout the day
Focusing on long-term trends rather than daily scale changes
Lifestyle change takes time — and support can make all the difference.
Bang Back Pinball Lounge is bouncing into the former Rockaway Athletic Club on Rosewood. The arcade bar and restaurant plans to open later this year with family-friendly vibes and a pimento cheeseburger nodding to the building’s past. (The State)
Biz
Columbia finalized the $2.9 million sale of its Washington Square building to The Kessler Collection, clearing the way for a Grand Bohemian Hotel on Main Street. The city’s first four-star hotel will feature art, dining, and event spaces as part of a $70 million redevelopment. (The Post and Courier)
Health
From live lobsters to blood pressure cuffs — the former Red Lobster in Cayce is becoming an MUSC primary care clinic. The $1.975 million sale closed in December, with an opening expected by fall. (The State)
Eat
2 Fat 2 Fly is working toward mass-producing its signature stuffed wings, aiming for grocery store shelves. Co-founder Corey Simmons says a new wing stuffing machine will help cut labor costs. Local pop-ups continue in the meantime. (Free Times)
Quoted
“Everything must go!” That’s the word from Feathered Nest, a vintage shop in Cayce’s River Arts District, closing Friday, Jan. 30 after the owner’s relocation. A clearance sale is underway with markdowns across furniture, art, and vendor booths.
Listen
Tune your radio dial to 100.7 FM on Monday, Jan. 12 from 9 to 10 a.m. for the debut of ColaTown: Our City. Our Stories., a new weekly radio show and podcast from the City of Columbia. The first episode highlights the MLK Commemoration Ceremony and initiatives from Parks & Rec and Neighborhood Safety.
Number
81 — that’s the number of handmade dresses by Florestine Kinchen that are on display through Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Ernest A. Finney, Jr. Cultural Arts Center. An opening event with a screening of “The Florestine Collection” takes place Saturday, Jan. 17.
Coming Soon
Something new is coming to Ballentine. A brand-new AllSouth Federal Credit Union branch is opening near I-26 at Exit 97, designed to serve this fast-growing community. Opening details are coming soon — stay tuned and get ready for convenient, local banking at the corner of W. Shady Grove and Broad River Road.*
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You might be kicking off 2026 with Dry January, a wellness event that challenges you to go a month without alcohol, or simply skipping alcohol right now — and if that’s you, Steel Hands Brewing has you covered. From the “soft and spicy” Gingersnap to the “say less” Cherry Bomb, the Cayce brewery has five mocktails to sip on while you kick back, socialize, and listen to live music.
USC students are enjoying their final days of winter break, and townies like me are savoring a few more days of light traffic. That changes Monday, Jan. 12, when classes resume, so plan ahead for your scoots around town.
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