Behind the Signs: Local Business Stories from 2025

Issue #639

January 05, 2026

In this What’s Up Columbia issue…

☁️ Columbia’s Friday Weather - Overcast w/ high of 64, low of 45

📰 Behind the Signs: Local Business Stories from 2025

🗓 List of Upcoming Events

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

🗓 Know of Some Local Events Not Listed? Send us the Details!

Behind the Signs: Local Business Stories from 2025

In 2025, we shined a spotlight on local businesses and organizations that make our community better. From longtime favorites to hidden gems, it’s been fun getting a peek behind the signs and meeting the people making it all happen. If you missed any of these stories, now’s a great chance to catch up!

When Chad Poynor started Clean Sweep Junk Hauling back in 2006, his goal wasn’t to build a big company — it was to make sure his kids learned what real work looked like. What began as a side gig cleaning construction sites has grown into a full-time family business hauling everything from furniture to overgrown properties across the region. Read more…

If you’ve driven down Nashville Highway in Neapolis and meant to try Mirinae Korean Restaurant someday, now’s the time to make it happen. The spot has become one of the area’s most exciting new dining destinations, with authentic Korean barbecue, bibimbap, kimchi stew, and more served with bold flavors and warm hospitality from owner Yun Choo. Read more…

Did you know some people are making the drive from Franklin and even Nashville just to get their hair cut in Columbia? Buffalo Co. Salon & Barber has become a local favorite thanks to owner Travis Mitchell’s unique blend of salon precision and barbershop skill, creating a place where everyone feels seen — and styled. Read more…

Buffalo Co’s vibey location inside the Columbia Arts Building

Tarra and John Bopp didn’t start out planning to open an electrical services company — they started out in the Army. Today, the couple brings the same teamwork, discipline, and service-first mindset they learned in uniform to every job they do at Mr. Electric of Columbia, from home safety checks to EV charger installations. Read more…

When Avery Worstell first started helping people with their insurance, it wasn’t some big career pivot — it was just something he was good at, and people kept asking for help. These days, families all over Maury County are turning to him because he makes a confusing process feel simple and personal. Read more… 

Joyfull Arcade isn’t your average game spot — it’s a next‑gen gaming experience bringing cutting‑edge arcade fun right to Spring Hill, from classic cabinets to immersive VR and racing simulators. Locals and visitors alike are loving the upbeat atmosphere, friendly staff, and the way it’s become a hangout for gamers of all ages. Read more… 

Joyfull Arcade’s racing simulator - originally built for NASCAR! Credit: Erin Bell

That Darn Pineapple Creations has been bringing Columbia together through hands-on craft workshops that go beyond just painting and décor. Locals keep coming back to see what’s new to make, learn, and take home — and the projects are more creative than you might expect. Read more…

Hustle Factory started with just two volleyball teams — and in a few short years it’s grown into a 15‑team program energizing the sport across Maury County. Coaches and players alike say it’s more than just volleyball; it’s become a community where young athletes push each other to improve and have fun together. Read more… 

Do YOU Want to Be in the Spotlight?

Want your business or organization featured in a local spotlight? Each feature includes an in‑depth interview, a version made for Facebook to share with our audience, and a story that stays on our website — ready to show off what makes your business unique. We already have a few features lined up for the new year and would love to highlight more local businesses. Reach out here to learn more!

Upcoming Local Events

🗓 Have an event to add? Send us the Details!

Tuesday, January 6th

Wednesday, January 7th

Thursday, January 8th

Friday, January 9th

Saturday, January 10th

Sunday, January 11th

👇 Click the Links to Learn About our Local Business Sponsors! 👇

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

Tuesday, January 6th
Songwriters Round - Whiskey Alley Saloon, 6–9 PM

Thursday, January 8th
Todd Ciprian - Tito’s Spring Hill, 6–9 PM
Kit Bulla - Whiskey Alley Saloon, 7:30–9 PM

Friday, January 9th
Beck & Call - The Mulehouse, 7 PM
Golden Soul Revue - Grinder’s Switch Winery, 7–9 PM
Mary Lou - Puckett’s, 7:30–9 PM
Jordan Priest - Whiskey Alley Saloon, 7:30–9 PM

Saturday, January 10th
Winter Series - Bourbon Gospel, 7:30 PM
Krystal Kind - Puckett’s, 7:30–9 PM

Want to get your business in What’s Up Columbia? Let’s talk