Treats are a dog’s paycheck



In dog training, we have a saying: “Behaviors that are rewarded are repeated.” While many dogs appreciate praise as a reinforcer and some would rather play with a toy than eat, most dogs we work with consider the (right) treat the ultimate reward. There is a reason treat training works for so many dogs. Food is a primary reinforcer for […]

Early Columbia Cemeteries

Part 11: Douglas Cemetery

The property for Douglas Cemetery was purchased in 1908 by the Metropolitan Development Company who soon sold it to the Douglas Company who created the cemetery. By 1915 there were 85 documented burials. The property changed hands many times, from the original owner to the Douglas Company, to William P. Donelon in 1935, to James F. Dreher in 1938, to […]

The Good Old Days

It’s not a criticism; It’s an observation


Mid afternoon on Palm Sunday, I was cooking. Carrots, sweet potato medallions, and grape tomatoes were crowded together on my gas infrared grill, followed by lamb chops. I prefer charcoal, but the weather was iffy, and I didn’t want to involve extra time just getting a fire going. The infrared heats food at a higher temperature than standard gas grills […]

Sunnybrook

Excerpt No. 15 from Mike Maddock’s novel available now on Amazon


Editor’s Note: We are pleased to publish Mike Maddock’s novel, Sunnybrook, in its entirety as a “50 Something” weekly series for 2021. All published excerpts will also be available on our website, www.TheColumbiaStar.com. Chapter 3 (Cont’d) “Yeah, I fell on my back and they covered me with their puppy breath. I thought that was the greatest birthday gift off all […]

A Wild Senior Trip

Part 5: St. Augustine

The brave crew of the Tigner Tiger survived the Fernandina Beach disaster and bravely sailed on with great anticipation. We had learned several lessons: No. 1— Never tie up tight to a dock; No. 2— Never rely on catching our dinner; and No. 3— Never again sleep in the boat. As we approached Jacksonville, Captain Tigner announced, “The 1912 Florida […]

FOLKS ABOUT TOWN

The following local agents have been honored by the national franchise organization, Weichert Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., as 2020 Office Award Winners, based on achieving specified production requirements in gross commission income or units closed in 2020—For Weichert, Realtors® – Ray Covington, Inc.: Ted Schrum (Presidents Club (Go)), Christy Cole (Ambassador Club), Anita Smith (Executive Club), Lee Davis (Executive Club), […]

Gov. McMaster announces new economic development initiative to expand recruitment of pharmaceutical companies


Governor Henry McMaster has issued Executive Order 2021-17, which directs the Department of Commerce to enhance recruitment efforts of pharmaceutical and medical supply manufacturers in South Carolina and directs state agencies to focus procurement efforts of medicines, medical devices, and medical supplies on those made in South Carolina. The new initiative will safeguard South Carolina from supply chain disruptions experienced […]

Women’s clothing shop on Devine Street is now “Slate”


Copper Penny Columbia, a destination for women’s wear at 2702 Devine Street, is now known as “Slate.” Mollie Hobbs opened her high-end clothing shop in 2013. In September of 2018, Hobbs moved her business from Five Points to its current location, and she is looking forward to another milestone as Slate and her business grow. Shoppers accustomed to the edited […]

Speed Mart serves up U-Haul equipment to West Columbia movers


U-Haul Company of South Carolina, Inc. has announced Speed Mart signed on as a U-Haul® neighborhood dealer to serve the West Columbia community. Speed Mart at 1914 Augusta Road will offer essential services like UHaul trucks, towing equipment, moving supplies, and in-store pickup for boxes. Normal business hours are 9:30 a.m.–6 p.m. every day. Reserve U-Haul products at this dealer […]

“The Cheese Biscuit Queen” launches cookbook and donates proceeds to MIRCI in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month


South Carolina native and longtime Midlands resident Mary Martha Greene will launch her much-anticipated cookbook, The Cheese Biscuit Queen Tells All, May 3 and will donate a portion of her books sales to MIRCI. Greene’s book interweaves cherished recipes with the memories they evoke, telling stories of her late mother and aunt’s kitchen conversations and recalling recipes from close friends. […]