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🦦 River of ideas
A bird’s eye view of the area that will become the Congaree Riverfront District. | Photo provided by Congaree Riverfront District Project
Columbia’s riverfront plans are moving out of the idea phase — and into public input.
“This is your riverfront,” Mayor Daniel Rickenmann said as the city begins gathering feedback on the Congaree Riverfront District. The first public meeting is set for Wednesday, April 1 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Senate’s End.
What to know:
The plan focuses on a 100-acre riverfront district along the Congaree River
It would link Riverfront Park to Granby Park with expanded greenway access
The vision goes beyond a park, with future development like housing, retail, or hotels part of the conversation
No designs are finalized — this phase is about shaping priorities before anything is drawn up
The meeting will gather feedback on recreation, public space, environmental preservation, and neighborhood connections
Camden’s Carolina Cup returns tomorrow, March 28 at Springdale Race Course, with ~30,000 attendees expected — up about 10% from last year. New “CupFest” festivities will start today in downtown Camden to extend visits to boost local tourism.
Opening
Puttin’ Around, a new indoor mini-golf spot, will open April 4 on St. Andrews Road. The 18-hole course is designed for all-weather play and group outings, taking over a former HobbyTown space.
Sports
The Columbia Fireflies will host a free Meet the Team party at Segra Park on Wednesday, April 1, from 5 to 7 p.m. Watch the team take batting practice, sign autographs, and get a first look at the 2026 roster ahead of Opening Day on Tuesday, April 7.
Eat
Did someone say caviar hot dogs and vinyl records? That’s the vibe at Ike Lu Record Club, a new jazz kissa-style restaurant and cocktail bar in West Columbia’s River District, blending curated vinyl listening, mid-century design, and a menu of elevated bites + drinks. Take a look.
Number
$358,000 — that’s how much Central Carolina Community Foundation awarded to 12 Midlands nonprofits through its Connected Communities grant program. The funding supports projects focused on healthcare access, housing, job opportunities, and community spaces.
Family
The SC State Museum will offer 50% off general admission for kids ages 3-12 from Saturday, April 4 through Friday, April 11 during Spring Break. Guests can also enjoy 4D and planetarium shows like “Bugs 4D” and “James Webb Space Telescope: The Story Unfolds,” plus four floors of exhibits.
Health
If constant food noise and hunger are wearing you down, MEDVi offers clinician-guided GLP-1 care built for real life. Your dosage is tailored just for you, with clear guidance so you’re never left guessing. See if you qualify and start your introductory month for $179.‡*
Wellness
This FDA-registered vibrator is recommended by doctors because it’s backed by science to boost arousal and support natural lubrication, thanks to its bendable shape designed to stimulate all the right spots. Even better? Save 50% during MV.Health’s sitewide sale.*
Number
$1.50. That’s the price of Costco’s iconic hot dog — a tasty shopping staple and a viral deal in its own right. But it’s far from the only bargain worth knowing about. From overlooked perks to smart in-store strategies, here are 10 lesser-known hacks every Costco shopper should have in their back pocket.*
Here’s a new date night idea. Mother’s Oysters + Pies in Lexington is quickly building buzz for its mix of atmosphere and eclectic menu that features everything from chargrilled oysters and vodka pasta to crab malfatti and wood-fired pies. The space feels elevated yet approachable, making it a fit for everything from a casual night out to a group dinner.
It’s lightning deal time. Snap up these top-rated items, up to 55% off today only in Amazon’s Big Spring Sale.
⚡ Save 33% on this No. 1 best-selling women’s sports bra, built to provide support and cushioning during high-impact exercise.
⚡ This cute swimsuit cover-up is 20% off this morning, the lowest price of the year so far — grab it in a tropical print or stick to timeless black or navy.
⚡ Refresh bedding with 38% off cooling bamboo sheets, made with a luxurious, high-end feel that stays cool to the touch on hot nights.
⚡ Restock your bra drawer with 55% off this comfortable wireless bra, great for everyday wear.
⚡ This top-rated men’s knit polo is 27% off and will earn you style points at spring + summer occasions.
The best strawberries are the ones you U-Pick. You’ll have your chance beginning tomorrow, March 28 at Clinton Sease Farm. Fill a half-gallon bucket for $11, or let them pick for $13 — then you can focus on the shortcake.
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‡Prescription-only GLP-1 treatment requires evaluation by a licensed U.S. provider. Treatment is provided only if medically appropriate; not all patients qualify. Results vary. Compounded medications, if prescribed, are prepared by licensed U.S. pharmacies and are not FDA-approved as finished products. See program terms for details.
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