🌱 Runaway Teen + Main Street Sees Progress

Up and at 'em, Columbia! Here's everything you need to know to get this Saturday started off right.

First, today's weather:

Cold with clouds breaking. High: 42 Low: 22.

Here are the top two stories today in Columbia:

1. The West Columbia Police Department is seeking the public's help in finding a missing 17-year-old. It is believed that Jesica Noleia Reyes-Rodriquez left her North Street home in West Columbia on Jan. 19 and has not been seen since. Police describe Reyes-Rodriquez as a Hispanic female who is 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs about 120 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. If you have any information on her, please contact the West Columbia Police Department. (WIS10)
2. Over the last three months, Colombia’s Main Street district has seen major progress in its decade-long dining and nightlife renovation. Opening later this year are the Ambrosia Taverna and Prohibition cocktail bar and the high-end MOA Korean BBQ. The area’s walkability and growth have made it one of the more appealing dining districts in the city, with other restauranteurs looking to develop in the area. (Charleston Post Courier)

Today in Columbia:

• COR Connections At Studio Fire (9:30 AM)
• Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition At Spear Center For The Performing Arts (10:00 AM)
• Gregory Porter At Koger Center For The Arts (7:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• A statement from the South Carolina Emergency Management Division: "If you lose power and decide to use a portable generator, remember to keep the generator outside and at a safe distance away from the house. Generators should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Do not run your generator in your garage." (Facebook)
• Winter weather is in the forecast and the US National Weather Service Columbia South Carolina needs your reports! Freezing rain/drizzle will develop late this morning into the afternoon with snow and sleet developing this evening into tonight. Photos to accompany your reports are also appreciated! (Facebook)
• Expect below-freezing temperatures this weekend. The South Carolina Emergency Management Division encourages everyone in the state to be prepared for below-freezing conditions during and after this weekend’s winter storm. (Facebook)

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Thanks for following along and staying informed! I'll see you back in your inbox tomorrow with your next update.

— Dan Casarella

About me: Dan Casarella is a writer, podcast producer, and small business development specialist who formerly worked in late-night television. He’s produced many talk segments, including with President Joe Biden, Kobe Bryant, and Chadwick Boseman. Dan studied Media Studies and Production at Temple University. He also enjoys running, painting, and the highs and lows of Philadelphia’s sports teams.