(l to r) Rick Patel, developer; Carmella Roche; Henry and Carmella Martin; Allison Martin; T.N. Patel; David Martin, general manager; Columbia Mayor Bob Coble; Ike McLeese and Grant Jackson with the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce. Columbia's newest full- service contemporary banquet facility, the Medallion Center, located at 7309 Garners Ferry Road, held a ribbon- cutting ceremony December 22 attended by community leaders and elected officials.

The 43,000 square- foot, state- of- the- art facility has flexible meeting and function space that can accommodate up to 2,900 people featuring a grand ballroom with seating for 900, salons and board rooms, spacious entrance foyer and outdoor courtyard.

Conveniently located just off I- 77, the Medallion Center boasts an architectural style that complements the contemporary décor. Guests will enjoy a luxurious open atrium with a beautiful outdoor courtyard and water feature, Martin said.

The Medallion Center will welcome guests with a combination of warm hospitality, gourmet cuisine, and state- of- the art capabilities to make each event uniquely spectacular.

Created by Tronco's Special Events, an award- winning, family- owned business that has been serving Columbia for 17 years, this high- end, unique event facility is centrally located in Columbia.

The facility features rich upholstery, all- recessed lighting, warm butter- colored walls, and upscale architecture. The interior consists of a 13,500 square- foot grand ballroom, five board rooms, a spacious en-trance foyer and walkways, and a salon that opens to an outdoor courtyard.

The Medallion Center's event designers have a wide range of event experience and can assist in developing everything from the most elegant weddings, receptions and rehearsal dinners to corporate business meetings, seminars and conferences. The location features complimentary parking and easy access to eight hotels (and two more under construction), with a combined total of more than 1,000 guest rooms.