🌱 Columbia City Council Pays For Safety + House Fire Intentional

Hey, Columbia! Let's get you all caught up to start this Friday, March 11 off on an informed note. Here's everything you need to know today in Columbia.

First, today's weather:

Some rain and a thunderstorm. High: 59 Low: 54.

Here are the top three stories in Columbia today:

1. The Columbia City Council is planning to spend millions of COVID relief money on public safety initiatives for the city. In total, the city received $27 million in COVID relief funds and will spend $8 million on the safety initiatives. These include a mental health unit with the police department, community programs, and new gear for firefighters. (WLTX.com)
2. A West Columbia man is preparing to fly to Poland to help Ukrainian refugees. Scott Andes, a parishioner at First Presbyterian Church, will fly to Poland later today to provide food, medical supplies, and housing for refugees. Anyone looking to donate medical supplies can drop them off at the church. (WLTX.com)
3. The Richland County Fire Marshal's Office released a statement saying that the house fire on Whitney Street on Mar. 8 was intentionally set. The Sheriff's department is currently investigating the matter. No one was injured in the fire but four were displaced. (Columbia Patch)

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Today in Columbia:

• Blythewood Rib Cook-Off At Meadowlake Park (All Day)
• 2022 Visionary Family Conference At The First Baptist Church of Columbia (All Day)
• Carolina Classic Home and Garden Show At The South Carolina State Fair (1:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Columbia Police Department thanks WLTX News19 for spreading the word about City of Columbia Government efforts to expand financial resources for public safety. Chief W. H. 'Skip' Holbrook explains what those funds will mean to citizens. (Facebook)
• The US National Weather Service of Columbia is encouraging residents to put together a severe weather plan. Check out the tips at the link. (Facebook)
• Do you see walking and biking as important to our community, and want to learn about the health and economic benefits? Apply now for the City of Columbia Walk Bike Ambassador Program! (Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Events:

• Divorce & The Home – the Spring Housing Market – Vesta's South Carolina Hub (March 22)
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Thanks for following along and staying informed. See you all tomorrow for another 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.