"Columbia is going through a major revitalization, new businesses coming into town, restaurants, antiques, breweries, artists," said Colby Baker, event coordinator with the Merchants Association of Columbia (MAC). "It really is growing. Many of the businesses and residents can agree Columbia is not just a place to visit; it's a destination." To help support its mission of promoting Columbia, the MAC is organizing The Columbia Gala ... A Roaring Good Time. The 1920s-themed event will be held on Saturday, March 26, from 7 to 11 p.m. at the National Watch and Clock Museum, 514 Poplar St., Columbia.
The evening will feature food, music and more. "Kristen's Katering will be serving homemade hors d'oeuvres, crab cakes, pineapple-glazed ham balls and party pinwheels, just to name a few," said Michelle McFarland, MAC event coordinator. "She will be serving chocolate-dipped strawberries, assorted homemade cookies and assorted cheesecakes with a speakeasy twist." Starview Brews will serve beer, and The Renegade Winery will serve wine. Entertainment will be provided by DJ Stan D Man. "We will have silent auction items for guests to bid on," noted Jasmine Preston, MAC board member. "Some of those items are a vacation in New Jersey, a diamond necklace, sports memorabilia, a spa package (and) artwork."
The funds raised from the event will go to the numerous events the board plans throughout the year, Preston said. "This includes the Fourth Friday events, events like the gala and a few other events the board is looking to bring back to Columbia," she stated. "We are also looking into hosting a few big events." MAC is a nonprofit organization with a mission of creating events to bring people to Columbia to shop, dine and explore all the town has to offer.
"The events hosted by MAC bring more people in town, and the feedback we get is amazing," Preston remarked. "To see all the shops busy and selling out of items is proof of this. We are growing. One of sponsors for the evening who is co-hosting the event, Art Printing Company, is celebrating 100 years in business this year, and we are so excited to have them come alongside us as we celebrate not only the gala but 100 years of a great business."
She noted that the gala promises to be a fun night out. "The event includes your food, drinks and entertainment," she stated, noting that 1920s attire is encouraged for the evening. "This event celebrates our town, (and) this event will bring merchants and residents together to celebrate."
The deadline to purchase tickets for the gala is Sunday, March 20. Tickets can be purchased at Murphy's Mercantile, 261 Locust St.; at Murphy's booth at the Columbia Market House, 15 S. Third St.; or online at https://columbiamerchants.com.
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