How safe is it to shop in stores? You can reduce your risk but experts say you should avoid it.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention calls holiday shopping in crowded stores a “higher risk” activity and advises you to limit any in-person shopping including at supermarkets.

The CDC recommends shop online, visit outdoor markets or curbside pickup where employees bring orders to your car. If you go, do it in off-hours with fewer people, wear a mask and keep your distance.

For Cookie Monsters

Our Cindy Johnson visited new CrumbL Cookies in the Target Shopping Center on US 378 in Lexington. On free cookie day Friday, a long line waited to get a cookie.

The smell, she said, was amazing.

Cindy left with a pink box full of extra large chocolate peppermint, sugar, red velvet and chocolate chip cookies.

New at the zoo

Riverbanks Zoo is celebrating its 33rd annual lights before Christmas 5 - 9 pm on select nights through Dec. 30.

A 30-foot animated story tree is the only place where it “snows” every night.

Riverbanks members enter free with a membership card and photo ID. Admission is $12 for adults and $10 for children 2 – 12. Get timed tickets at the zoo web site.

Chamber Awards

The Lexington Chamber of Commerce is inviting nominations for a deserving business or professional. Nominate a Small Business, Large Business and Young Professional of the Year at the chamber website.

Who’s new

French chef Laurent Prescelti will open a new cafestyle breakfast and lunch restaurant in the West Columbia River District with espresso drinks, salads and croissants. The 2nd floor will be for private parties with a patio in the back for outside dining.

Prescelti, a Marseilles native, brings more than 20 years experience. The Hideout at 118 State St. has parking in back and on State Street. Hours are 7 am - 2 pm Monday to Saturday and 9 am to 2 pm Sunday.

What’s new

Rob Shaw Gallery and Framing at 324 State Street in West Columbia will show original oil paintings from artist Noelle Brault through Jan. 15. The exhibit will feature all original oils to include several local area nocturnes, sun-drenched southern landscapes and idyllic boat scenes.

Good work

Lexington District 3’s Lifelong Learning Center received the “Stepping Up To The Plate” Award from the SC Department of Education’s Office of Adult Education.

Director Randall Price commended Patricia Tiffner, Heather Jackson and Geena Beerman for working evenings, weekends and holidays to ensure 30 students graduated as Certified Nursing Assistants.

Unemployment improves

SC unemployment claims have dropped by 884 from the previous week. Lexington County had 115, Richland 206, Greenville a state-high 283, Horry 238. Spartanburg 182 and Charleston County 128.

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