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🪡 Point in the right direction
Senior Product Editor Morgan is currently working on canvases inspired by “The Wizard of Oz.” | Photo by 865today
Needlepoint is having a major comeback moment, as more Americans embrace “analog activities” to replace screen time.
These offline hobbies range from puzzles to scrapbooking, but needlepoint has quickly become one of the biggest standouts. Etsy reports searches for “beginner needlepoint items” are up 208% year-over-year, and social media trends like #WIPWednesday (“Work in Progress Wednesday”) encourage needlepointers to share their latest projects and cheer each other on.
If you’re curious about trying it for yourself in Columbia, here are a few easy ways to join the needlepoint resurgence.
Take a beginner-friendly class
At Forest Acres Needlepoint, beginners can learn the basics, from threading a needle to the basketweave and continental stitch. Not ready to commit to a class? Stop by the store, and the staff can help you choose a beginner-friendly canvas, select threads, and pick up the essential tools you’ll need to start stitching.
The former Marion Street high-rise near the corner of Elmwood Avenue and Bull Street is now “The Dylan.” Available beginning Wednesday, April 1, the 16-story tower, formerly home to affordable senior housing, is now advertising renovated studio, one- and two-bedroom units ranging from $750 to $1,600 per month. (The Post and Courier)
Sports
Another one. The No. 3 Gamecocks clinched at least a share of the SEC regular-season title last Sunday with their 85-48 win over No. 17 Ole Miss. USC has now won at least a share of five straight conference crowns and can secure the title outright with one more win.
Announced
“Only Murders in the Building” unite — Steve Martin and Martin Short are bringing their live show to Township Auditorium on Saturday, Dec. 5. Tickets go on sale tomorrow, Feb. 25 for the comedy event.
Traffic
SCDOT will temporarily detour I-77 southbound in Richland County overnight on Monday, March 2, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. and Monday, March 9, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. The detours are part of construction for the new interchange at Exit 26, which will serve the future Scout Motors Manufacturing facility.
Cause
The 4th Annual Alley Golf Fundraiser returns Saturday, April 11, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Steel Hands Vista. Hosted by the Vista Neighborhood Association and Vista Guild, the mini-golf event supports the Lincoln Tunnel Public Art Project at the Vista Greenway.
Arts
Runaway Runway returns Saturday, April 18 to the Columbia Museum of Art and is inviting local artists to create wearable fashion from reclaimed and recycled materials. Judges will award cash prizes up to $250, and attendees will vote for a People’s Choice winner. (Cola Daily)
Biz
Next week, we’re excited to launch BizBrief, a new local, weekly business-focused newsletter from COLAtoday. We’ll keep you up-to-date on all the latest developments, trends, and opportunities + pro tips and insights from Columbia’s top movers and shakers. Look for it in your inbox starting Monday + feel free to forward to a friend.
Featured Deal
Spend $50 on woman-owned cannabis brand TribeTokes and get a free pack of THC Libido Lift Gummies with purchase. Think: Stock up on top-reviewed CBD sleep gummies or enjoy a clean buzz from pineapple Delta 9 gummies. Use code VDAYGUMMY before the deal ends.†*
Event Spotlight
Tickets are on sale for Dining on the Dam, happening Sunday, March 29 from 5 to 9 p.m. atop the Lake Murray Dam. The ticketed event includes a full dinner from Southern Way Catering, drinks, and live music from Finesse — all set against sunset views over Lake Murray.
Heads up, drivers and walkers: The top of the dam will close to vehicle and foot traffic starting at 7 a.m. that day, with attendees parking in designated lots and taking shuttles to the event.
The Buy
Products we think every pet lover should have:
👕 Whether you’re the proud pet parent of a dog, cat, lizard, or hamster, show them off on a custom t-shirt.
🧹 Easily remove pet hair from carpets + upholstery thanks to the No. 1 best-selling Chom Chom hair and lint remover.
📷 Keep an eye on your four-legged friend with an indoor pet camera that’s under $30.
🧼 Make bath time a breeze with these pet bathing gloves that have soft bristles for easy grooming.
Before you get back to your inbox, Columbia’s Community Pet Pantry is running low on dry dog and cat food. If you’re already headed to the store this week, grabbing an extra bag will help make a difference. Drop-offs can be made at 127 Humane Ln., or you can ship directly to the shelter.
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