Rickenmann elected as Columbia’s 37th mayor


Daniel Rickenmann was elected as Columbia’s 37th mayor after defeating Councilwoman Tameika Issac Devine in a special election Tuesday, November 16. “It’s very exciting. There was a lot of energy in the room, a lot of supporters,” Rickenmann said. “A lot of people came together from all over the city to help. I’m humbled. It was incredible.” Rickenmann received 52 […]

Bussells wins at-large seat


Dr. Aditi Bussells has been elected as one of the city’s two at-large representatives after defeating Tyler Bailey in a run-off election Tuesday, November 16. “I am incredibly humbled and overwhelmed,” Bussells said. “I’m still in awe from where we began to where we are now. The thought of over 10,000 people choosing change and choosing something different. I’m incredibly […]

Local author publishes new book


Alexander Malone’s new book The Deliverance of Cabo Koob is a legionnaire’s tale of finding liberation and returning back home. Malone follows the stirring adventure of a young German who unexpectedly finds himself stuck in a remote village for more than a decade after the battle of Dien Bien Phu. Malone, a military veteran who served in Vietnam, writes, “Dieter […]

Falling Back

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


My father was uncomfortable when getting photographed. He had some crooked teeth and didn’t like his image. He grew up when dentistry wasn’t something people did regularly. One visited the tooth doctor only when there was pain present. Having crooked teeth didn’t qualify as a dental necessity. At least that’s my theory. One Christmas dinner, I used my gift to […]

Sunnybrook

Excerpt No. 47 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 11 (Cont’d) “Hold on, Little Buddy! I’m trying!” Joey continued to dance and exhale furiously, but to David’s amazement, he almost seemed to be waiting patiently. […]

Historic Eutawville Part 2: Historic Village


When I was a child, my parents often took me to Eutawville to visit my great aunt, a grizzled old woman my mother held in great esteem. Momma told me innumerable times, “Everyday, I rode my horse from Pineville to Eutawville to visit my aunt for tea and cookies.” I was in awe then, as I am now, because I […]

FOLKS ABOUT TOWN

Tammie Maddock has been named general manager at The Columbia Star. Molly Hefka has been named associate media director at Chernoff Newman. Gills Creek Watershed Association (GCWA) has announced the appointment of Scott Elliott, Esq., of his law firm Elliott & Elliott, P.A., as its new board president; Gwen Geidel , Ph.D., JD, as vice president; and Mark Robertson as […]

REAL ESTATE

Colliers South Carolina’s industrial brokerage team of Chuck Salley, SIOR; Dave Mathews, SIOR; Thomas Beard; and John Peebles represented Sandhills Development Company in the sale of 6.9 acres in Lexington County Industrial Park to Beaman Pearson Holdings who will develop the site for a building supply company.

AVANTech, LLC expanding operations in Richland County


AVANTech, LLC, a wastewater and radioactive waste treatment solutions provider, has announced plans to expand operations in Richland County. The more than $3.6 million investment will create 17 new jobs. Founded in 1999 in South Carolina, the company provides innovative technology and turnkey services for its custom, operator-friendly systems. AVANTech, LLC creates integrated solutions that improve operations in commercial nuclear, […]

Gong Cha and Kremo Ice Cream celebrate grand opening


Gong Cha and Kremo, located at 701-B Santee Avenue, hosted their official Grand Opening in Five Points on Monday, November 15. A ribbon-cutting was presented by the Five Points Association. Patrons enjoyed two delicious offerings under one roof—bubble tea and rolled ice cream. “I chose to open my businesses in Columbia because it’s my hometown, and my kids plan to […]