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Columbia Parks & Recreation Invests in the Revitalization of Mays Park

The Mays Park Revitalization project reflects input received through an online survey and a community meeting. The survey, released through Survey Monkey on January 12, 2022, garnered 185 responses. Additionally, November 3, 2022 a community meeting was held at Kilbourne Park Baptist Church. During the meeting, participants discussed park and programming opportunities and voted on their most desired components for the new park by placing dots on a program board. The schematic design was sent to the community for review on December 19, 2022. Comments received on the schematic design that required revision in the Design Development Stage included removing the parking lot behind the park pavilion (item #8 on the plan), expanding the trail to wrap around the entire park, and including a landscape buffer around the residential property at the corner of Saramont Road and Trenholm Road. The project timeline is estimated to take 6-8 months once the construction begins. 

Proposed scope includes but is not limited to the following:

1.  Tree removal - Additional measures have been taken to save more trees due to recent concerns of tree removal by the community. The new total of selective tree removal is reduced to (25 trees – 21 pine and 4 oak). Our goal is to provide more open green space and incorporate plan components with the associated grading and stormwater improvements. The plan works around grand oaks on site and includes special details to bridge the roots in order to save those trees. The 4 oaks selected for demo are smaller and 1 is damaged and in poor condition.

• 1.  There is a total of 74 of 97 trees that will now remain according to our Site Survey
• 2.  To save more trees, the community green will be slightly smaller with natural islands mixed in for the pines to help give community the greenspace desired while keeping the larger pines in that area
• 3.  City of Columbia Parks and Recreation followed the City of Columbia Landscape and Tree Ordinance 17-5.3

2.  Selective demolition and erosion control

3.  Rain garden (Required to capture and treat stormwater from impervious components of plan.)

4.  Landscaping improvements (Includes new trees, native plantings and buffer along neighboring residential property)

5.  Site amenities

6.  Site grading (Required to create an accessible layout)

7.  Stone veneer retaining/seatwall and steps (Retaining walls help control grading limits to save more trees)

8.  Stormwater structures in green space to be converted to surface grade catch basins (Upgrades will create a safer greenspace for children to play)

9.  Walking paths to connect park elements for cohesive layout and provide accessibility throughout park (Requires grading for accessibility. Route avoids grand hardwood trees and pines where possible.)

10.  Central sodded green space that is framed with new playground components and splash pad.

11.  The basketball area is slightly moved to the interior of park area and becomes a basketball tree

12.  Overhead wiring and dominion poles to be removed per plans.

13.  1 of 2 tennis courts to be converted to a multiuse pickleball/ tennis court

City of Columbia Secures Over $22 Million in Grants to Lead South Carolina's Workforce Development in Grid Resilience Technologies

In a groundbreaking step toward becoming a national leader in grid resilience technologies (GRT), the City of Columbia, South Carolina has secured over $22 million in grant funding for two innovative projects that aim to revolutionize workforce development and advance battery technology.

These projects, led by the University of South Carolina and the South Carolina Technical College System, are set to create jobs, boost the regional economy and position South Carolina at the forefront of sustainable energy innovation.

“We celebrate this major win for the State of South Carolina and the City of Columbia, home of the University of South Carolina and the South Carolina Technical College System,” says Daniel Rickenmann, mayor of the City of Columbia. “SC NEXUS is a creative, statewide collaboration, but the heart and soul that will drive its success is located right here in Columbia. We will continue to produce innovation in the clean energy sector from the heart of the state.”



The Carolina Institute for Battery Innovation (CIBI), a project led by the University of South Carolina, received $10,218,140 in funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) Tech Hubs program. The program is designed to scale up the production of critical technologies, create jobs in innovative industries and strengthen U.S. economic competitiveness and national security.

This development is crucial, as the CIBI will establish a stationary battery manufacturing pilot line in Columbia, driving advancements in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Through this initiative, the CIBI aims to reduce costs and enhance features like faster ramp times and higher energy densities, promoting innovation and commercialization.

The project is poised to create jobs, boost the regional economy, support sustainable energy transitions, enhance energy security and position South Carolina as a leader in cutting-edge battery technology.

With breakthroughs in new technology and the establishment of new industries, comes the need for new workforce development opportunities. As such, another $12,637190 in funding will support The Education and Workforce Center (EWC) project, an initiative led by the South Carolina Technical College System (SCTCS).

Through the EWC project, the SCTCS – in partnership with GRT employers, K-12 and higher education institutions and community organizations – will promote awareness of career pathways in the space, identify and develop the soft and hard skills necessary for success in these roles and provide support services, such as transportation and childcare, needed to ensure energy workers are able to access opportunities in the GRT space.



Funding for these projects was secured by the SC Nexus for Advanced Resilient Energy (SC NEXUS), a consortium of over 50 public and private entities from across the state dedicated to driving innovation in technologies that enable an end-to-end resilient, sustainable energy ecosystem.

The City of Columbia and Columbia Clean Energy Companies Rejuvenate Hydrogen Fueling Site

The City of Columbia has partnered with Columbia-based companies aich2 and ImaGEN to rejuvenate a hydrogen refueling station, marking a significant milestone in the region's clean energy journey.

The rejuvenated fueling site will serve as a demonstration hub and catalyst for future hydrogen projects, supporting the City of Columbia’s plans to launch a hydrogen bus system. The combined growth of these projects will enhance the local economy and establish the Midlands as a leader in hydrogen technology.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for our community,” said City of Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann. “It allows us to transition our bus system to clean energy and position the Midlands as a hydrogen energy leader through this revolutionary technology.”

In 2023, the City of Columbia leased the former fueling station to ImaGEN, envisioning a safer and more efficient hydrogen fueling system. ImaGEN’s new, innovative Tru-H2 hydrogen generation system overcomes challenges that once faced the older fueling station and offers a viable path of power for the station.

“The system works by storing hydrogen as a solid and generating it directly at the point of use,” said Ron Seftick, ImaGEN CEO. “This approach ensures safe and efficient transportation in any quantity—something no other hydrogen energy solution can accomplish.”

To accelerate the commercialization of this groundbreaking technology, ImaGEN partnered with clean energy company aich2. Founded with the mission to combine the technology and talent needed to accelerate the hydrogen revolution, aich2 is dedicated to transforming large parts of the economy through hydrogen energy. This fueling station is just one piece of a broader effort by the team, which also includes plans to render existing backup power generators obsolete with a hydrogen-based competitor.

“This technology enables hydrogen energy to scale across our economy at an unprecedented pace compared to traditional methods,” said Eric Brown, aich2 CEO and Co-Founder. “Our solution could be deployed to fueling stations across North America well before existing hydrogen hub plans come to fruition.”

Liverpool F.C. and Manchester United match set for this Weekend at USC’s Williams-Brice Stadium

Liverpool F.C. and Manchester United will meet in the United States this summer as part of the Rivals in Red Tour, facing off at the University of South Carolina’s Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia. The match will take place on August 3, and will bring the Premier League titans together for one of the biggest international soccer matches in the history of the state.

Event promoters TEG Sport (TEG) is very proud to bring Liverpool F.C. and Manchester United to the U.S. with Official Destination Partner, Experience Columbia SC, working alongside the University of South Carolina team.

“Experience Columbia SC Sports is honored to be ‘The Official Destination Partner’ of this once in a lifetime event,” said Scott Powers, executive director of Experience Columbia SC Sports. “When approached with the opportunity to assist TEG Sports and the University of South Carolina with bringing this match to Columbia, it was an immediate yes for me. As a huge sports community, we have wrapped our arms around large events in the past, but the global reach and fanbase surrounding this sport and these teams generates the potential to make this the most impactful sporting event ever hosted in Columbia. We look forward to showcasing our destination to the fans of Man U and Liverpool and can’t wait to Paint the Town Red together come August 3.”

Manchester United is one of the most widely supported soccer teams in the world. United is a winner of a record 20 league titles and have won every major trophy in England and Europe. They hold the record for the largest crowd at a soccer match in U.S. history with 109,318 fans for a 2014 match against Real Madrid at Michigan Stadium. United is led by Portuguese midfielder Bruno Fernandes, and English stars Marcus Rashford and Scott Francis McTominay, both developed in Manchester United's youth academy.

“We had an incredible time during last year’s visit to the US and we are pleased to be returning with the men’s team to prepare for the 2024/25 season,” said John Murtough, Manchester United’s Football Director.

“The popularity of English football is continuously growing in the US, and we’ve come to expect passionate and enthusiastic support from our US fan base. They didn’t disappoint last year and everyone at the club is looking forward to reconnecting with those fans again this summer.”

“Having secured some of the best sporting facilities the US has to offer, the club will create the optimum environment for the team to reconnect after their summer break, and work on match fitness before the start of the Premier League season. The quality of opponents lined up to play is at the highest level, giving the players an opportunity to gain valuable playing time, and for fans to see some of the most famous teams in world football playing live.

“As is the club’s tradition during preseason, we’re expecting this tour to not only help prepare our first team players, but also give some of our exciting up-and-coming Academy talent the opportunity to experience training and playing within a first team environment at some of the most impressive and historical US stadiums,” said Murtough.

Liverpool F.C. will return to the United States of America for the first time in five years. One of the most popular and winning soccer teams, the club has won 19 domestic league titles, eight FA Cups, and six European Cups. Liverpool has been one of the most successful English club in recent years, having finished inside the Premier League’s top four each season since 2016-2017, and winning the league in 2019-2020. Dutch Defender Virgil van Dijk, Uruguayan forward Darwin Núñez, and Egyptian forward Mo Salah lead the squad sitting at the top of the Premier League table.

Access the tickets here:

https://tegsport.com.au/event/rivals-in-red-usa-2024-tour? .

To view the whole press release, click HERE

What you need to know about Rivals in Red: Liverpool F.C. vs Manchester United

Event Details: Event promoters TEG Sport (TEG) is very proud to bring Liverpool F.C. and Manchester United to the U.S. with Official Destination Partner, Experience Columbia SC, working alongside the University of South Carolina team.

·      Date: August 3, 2024

·      Time: 7:30 p.m.

·      Broadcast Live: ESPN, ESPN+, ESPN Deportes at 7:30 p.m.

·      Information on Things to Do:

o  https://www.experiencecolumbiasc.com/columbia-sc-events/rivals-in-red-manchester-united-v-liverpool/

·      Game Day Information:

o  https://gamecocksonline.com/rivalsinred/

ABOUT MANCHESTER UNITED

·      Manchester United is one of the most popular and successful sports teams in the world, playing one of the most popular spectator sports on Earth. Through our 145-year heritage we have won 66 trophies, enabling us to develop the world’s leading sports brand and a global community of 1.1 billion fans and followers. Our large, passionate community provides Manchester United with a worldwide platform to generate significant revenue from multiple sources, including sponsorship, merchandising, product licensing, new media & mobile, broadcasting and match day. 

Rivals in Red Game: What You Need to Know Regarding Uber Transportation

Any pre-game Uber rides ordered for the destination of Williams Brice will be redirected to the Greene Street entry of the GS4 Lot.

Please note that once you are dropped off by your Uber driver that the shuttle ride to the stadium is NOT complimentary.

For more information, click HERE

City Announces Summer of Service 

The City of Columbia Public Relations, Media and Marketing Department announces Summer of Service from July 1, 2024 through October 5, 2024.

Summer of Service will highlight fundraising and registration efforts for the upcoming 2024 Mayor’s Walk Against Domestic Violence. These services will include the second annual toiletry drive and the second annual Sistercare Saturdays.

2024 Toiletry Drive (Now – October 5, 2024)

The City of Columbia is collaborating with Sistercare for the second annual toiletry drive.

Please consider donating the items below:

•       Facial wipes

•       Deodorant

•       Liquid hand soap

•       Face cloths/towels

•       Masks

•       Feminine hygiene products

•       Body wash

•       Diapers

Visit the link to see the donation drop-off locations: https://publicrelations.columbiasc.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/City-of-Columbia-Partners-with-Sistercare-for-Second-Annual-Toiletry-Drive_.pdf

2024 Sistercare Saturdays (August 24 and September 7) | 10 AM – 1 PM

Join us in downtown Columbia during the Soda City market to raise funds and bring awareness to this violence. We will have a dunking booth on both Saturdays, in which you can pay to dunk Mayor Rickenmann, as well as others throughout both events. There will also be multiple raffle drawings each Saturday, featuring supporting organizations/businesses, who have partnered with us to raise funds for Sistercare. In addition, there will be yard games for the whole family to enjoy and information booths from Sistercare, our local public safety partners and the City of Columbia.

The dunk tank tickets are $5 for three (3) throws, $10 for seven (7) throws and $30 for instant dunk.

Free registration will be open all summer for everyone who would like to sign up to participate in the walk on October 5: https://form.jotform.com/241543640380148

For more information, contact the Public Relations, Media and Marketing Department at PIO@columbiasc.gov or 803-545-3020 

City of Columbia Partners with Sistercare for Second Annual Toiletry Drive

WHO: The City of Columbia is collaborating with Sistercare for the second annual toiletry drive. Sistercare is a nonprofit organization that helps victims and families recover from domestic violence.

WHAT: Please consider donating the items below:

• Facial wipes
• Deodorant
• Liquid hand soap
• Face cloths/towels
• Masks
• Feminine hygiene products
• Body wash
• Diapers

WHEN: Now – October 5, 2024

WHERE: The public can drop off donations at the following locations:

• City Hall, 1737 Main Street
• City of Columbia Payment Center, 3000 Harden Street
• Columbia Richland Fire Department Headquarters, 1800 Laurel Street
• City of Columbia Parking Services, 820 Washington Street
• Hyatt Park, 950 Jackson Avenue
• Greenview Park, 6700 David Street
• MLK Park, 2300 Greene Street
• Woodland Park, 6500 Olde Knight Parkway
• All Good Books, 734 Harden Street
• Sunrise Artisan Bath and Body, 710 Saluda Ave
• Papa Jazz Record Shoppe, 2014 Greene Street
• Sunrise Café, 1801 Main Street
• Hawthorne Taylor Pharmacy, 1520-A Taylor Street
• Pure Barre, 2123 Greene St A
• Mast General Store, 1601 Main Street
• Azalea Coffee Bar, 2700 Devine Street
• Good For the Sole Shoes, 728 Saluda Ave
• Sweet GGs Bakery, 613 Harden Street
• The Food Academy, 301 Gervais Street

*Currently seeking to identify other sponsors to serve as drop off locations*

To view event flyer click HERE

Amazing Eats in August with Food Truck Fridays

The City of Columbia continues the exciting initiative Food Truck Fridays through August. There will be new food vendors and the food trucks will operate from one location.

The City of Columbia Food Truck Fridays initiative features delicious food as a way to highlight various types of cuisines, which can be enjoyed in our city while connecting with each other over great food. The public can visit the food trucks from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 2300 Bull Street. Please find below the schedule for Food Truck Fridays for August:

Location: 2300 BULL STREET (REI Co-op parking lot at Bull Street, corner of Bull and Colonial)

August 2

Brown Bag Deli

Bruster's Real Ice Cream

Heaven's Cuisine

Wise's Fish & Fries

August 9

Bruster's Real Ice Cream

Casual Smoke BBQ

Lunas Grill

Wise's Fish and Fries

Toms Creek Mobile Market

August 16

Fresh Pours & Mo'

La Dolce Vita Pizza

Leafy Delight Eats and More

Smoke It Up

Toms Creek Mobile Market

August 23

Fresh Pours & Mo'

Casual Smoke BBQ

Heaven's Cuisine

The Haute' Dog Lady

Toms Creek Mobile Market

August 30

La Dolce Vita Pizza

Leafy Delight East & More

Lunas Grill

Smoke It Up

Toms Creek Mobile Market

To view the event flyer click HERE

City of Columbia Parks & Recreation Department Swimming Pool Operational Hours

The Maxcy Gregg Pool and the Greenview Pool is open for recreational swimming on the following holiday, Labor Day, Sept. 4, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The recreational swim season will remain open until Monday, Sept. 2, 2024 (Labor Day).

Maxcy Gregg Pool, 1655 Park Circle

Regular hours for recreational swimming are as follows

•      Monday through Thursday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

•      Fridays Closed for Maintenance 

•      Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

•      Sundays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Greenview Pool, 6700 David Street

Regular hours for recreational swimming are as follows

•      Mondays Closed for Maintenance 

•      Tuesday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

•      Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

•      Sundays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department Announces Pool Closure at Greenview Park on Thursday, August 1 for Summer Camp Activity

The City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department would like to inform the community that the Greenview Park Pool will be closed on Thursday, August 1, for a special Summer Camp Activity. This event is part of our ongoing efforts to provide engaging and fun experiences for our campers. We understand that this closure may cause inconvenience to some of our regular pool-goers and we apologize for this.

We appreciate your understanding and support as we strive to create memorable summer experiences for our campers. Regular pool operations will resume on Friday, August 2.

For more information, please contact 803-545-3100. Thank you for your cooperation.

WHAT: Columbia Parks & Recreation Department announces one day pool closure

WHO: Columbia Parks & Recreation Department

WHERE: Greenview Park, 6700 David St, Columbia, SC 29203

WHEN: Beginning Thursday, August 1

Columbia Parks & Recreation Department Announces Fall 2024 After School Programs at 4 Facilities with Programs Beginning on Aug. 8

The Columbia Parks & Recreation Department announces enrollment for fall 2024 After School Programs at four City of Columbia park facilities. The programs, which begin on Thursday, Aug. 8, are $40 per week and are held for students ages five through twelve Monday through Friday of every week from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

After School programs are held at:

• Emily Douglas Park (Teen programs grades 6^th – 9^th)

2500 Wheat Street - 29205

803-733-8531

• Heathwood Park

1800 Abelia Road - 29205

803-733-8446

• Sims Park

2500 Duncan Street - 29205

803-733-8451

• Woodland Park

6500 Olde Knight Parkway - 29209

803-776-1096

For more information, please call the individual facilities or 803-545-3100, or visit www.columbiasc.gov/parks-recreation .

WHAT: Columbia Parks & Recreation Department announces fall 2024 After School Programs

WHO: Columbia Parks & Recreation Department

WHERE: Emily Douglas Park, Heathwood Park, Sims Park, Woodland Park

WHEN: Beginning Thursday, Aug. 8

Toms Creek Family Farms Mobile Market

The City of Columbia is pleased to announce Toms Creek Family Farms Mobile Food Market. The mobile market will serve areas in Columbia with a priority for the targeted 29203 and 29204 areas. A trailer has been upfitted to accommodate fresh produce, proteins, dairy, and fresh baked goods accepting cash, cards, SNAP, healthy bucks and senior farmers, market vouchers. Toms Creek Family Farms Mobile Market will be at these locations listed every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

For more information, please visit columbiasc.gov.

To learn more, click HERE to watch a video.

City of Columbia Planning and Development Services offers Public Engagement Opportunities

The City of Columbia kicked off the Downtown Columbia Strategic Plan and Design Guidelines planning process in February. Since then, MKSK’s team has been listening to Columbians and translating what they have heard into some great ideas for the City. Come to an open house and hear their ideas for downtown Columbia. We want your feedback!

This new strategic master plan for Downtown Columbia will:

·        Create a community-driven vision for the public character of Downtown.

·        Establish priorities for public policy and public investment in the Downtown built environment.

·        Protect the unique character and assets of the historic urban core.

·        Form the basis for Downtown Design Guidelines to help shape great public spaces.

Ways to Engage:

·        Attend a community meeting! Meetings will be a drop-in format, and provide an opportunity to engage directly with the consultants and City staff.

o  Thursday, Aug. 1 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM; and 4:00 PM- 6:30 PM at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, Carolina Room, 1101 Lincoln Street

·        Learn more via the project website: https://planninganddevelopment.columbiasc.gov/downtown/

·        Sign up to receive email updates: https://bit.ly/COCDowntownEmails

For more information, please contact Lucinda Statler, Planning Administrator, 803-545-0229 or Lucinda.Statler@columbiasc.gov

Primetime Teen Event: Midnight Hoops

Who: City of Columbia Parks and Recreation

What: Parks and Recreation will be hosting a new Primetime Teen Event: Midnight Hoops. Come hang out this Friday at Greenview Park from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. This event is just for teens aged 13 to 17. See the attached flyer for a QR code for easy registration. See you there!

When: Friday, August 2, from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m.

Where: Greenview Park, 6700 David Street

To view event flyer, click HERE

Parks and Recreation presents "Groovin’ in the Gardens" Summer Concert

Who: City of Columbia Parks and Recreation, Dante Lewis & Friends, Kurt Green



What: Join Parks and Recreation for the "Groovin’ in the Gardens" Summer Concert. Admission is free! Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and friends for a night of music and community. Mark your calendars and come immerse yourself in the harmony of nature and music. Guests are welcome to bring coolers. However, alcohol is not permitted. Additionally, we kindly ask that all pets be kept on a leash. See you there!

When: Sunday, August 4, 2024 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Where: Leroy Moss Community Center in Hyatt Park, 950 Jackson Avenue 

To view event flyer, click HERE

City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention to Host Parent Café Sessions

“Gun Violence Ends With Us, Gun Safety Starts With A Conversation”

Who: The City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention and Be Strong Families.

What: City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention partners with Be Strong Families to host three parent cafés to have meaningful conversations about safety skills and the impact of gun violence within homes and communities. Please be advised that these sessions are adults only. Come and enjoy great raffles, dinner and community empowerment. Space is limited for each session, so register today!

Scan the QR code on the flyer or click the link to register: https://bestrongfamilies-net.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMoce2gqjovHt2vMHot7Q6AjsPYWxN6gVJr#/registration

When: Aug. 8, 15, and 22 from 6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Where: Lorick Park, 1600 Lorick Avenue, Columbia, SC

To view event flyer, click HERE

Columbia Animal Services

Columbia Animal Services to Host Clear the Shelters Pet Adoption Special

Who: Columbia Animal Services

What: Free adoptions for the entire month of August at Columbia Animal Services.

When: Thursday, August 1, 2024 – Saturday, August 31, 2024

Where: Columbia Animal Services, 127 Humane Ln, Columbia, SC 29209

To view event flyer, click HERE

Columbia Animal Services to Host Pups & Pints

Who: Columbia Animal Services and Bierkeller

What: Pups & Pints is an adoption and donation event for the Columbia Animal Services where all adoption fees are waved. The community is asked to bring a leash and collar if interested in adopting.

When: Saturday, August 24, 2024 from 12 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Where: Bierkeller Columbia, 600 Canalside St, Unit 1009, Columbia, SC 29201

To view event flyer, click HERE

Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting for HOTWORX

The City of Columbia helped welcome HOTWORX Fitness Studio into our City with a ribbon cutting ceremony that their location, 4464 Devine St., Suite G. At-Large City Councilwoman Dr. Aditi Bussells, Columbia Economic Development staff, Chamber of Commerce representatives and HOTWORX business owners all gave remarks about their excitement for the continued growth and investment in our community.

“As we celebrate the grand opening of HOTWORX, we reinforce our commitment to enhancing quality of life and championing small businesses,” Councilwoman Bussells said. “This innovative fitness studio not only promotes health and wellness, but also invigorates our local economy. Together, we’re building a strong, healthier Columbia.”

 HOTWORX is a unique fitness experience that combines infrared heat and isometric workouts to help clients achieve maximum results in less time. With over 600 locations across the United States, HOTWORX offers a variety of virtual exercise routines in 7 infrared saunas, promoting detoxification, accelerated calorie burn, and muscle recovery. 

The new HOTWORX studio in Columbia is proudly owned and operated by Kelsey Farnham Caskey and Sheena Vaccaro. Kelsey brings a wealth of experience in marketing and government relations, and is the co-founder of the successful local social media agency, Spruce Strategies. Sheena Vaccaro is an expert in the health field as a Women’s health nurse practitioner and entrepreneur. She also owns and operates Sneak A Peek Boutique, a private 3D/4D ultrasound studio.

During the grand opening event, there was an open studio and free classes all day, which also included giveaways, raffles and live music from DJ Kevin Snow. In addition to the fitness offerings, the event included participation from local vendors such as Stretch Lab Forest Acres, Ice Box Cryotherapy, and Sugar and Lola Boutique. Attendees were also able to take advantage of special membership discounts with $1 enrollment fees all day. 

To watch the grand opening, click HERE

Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting for More Vegan Café

The City of Columbia held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of More Vegan Café located at 4622 North Main St., Columbia, SC 29203. City of Columbia District 1 Councilwoman Tina N. Herbert and staff from the City’s Office of Business Opportunities were present to welcome More Vegan Café to our growing community in the North Main corridor.

“One of the things that we crave for in this community and on North Main St. is the ability to get to places quickly,” said District 1 Councilwoman Tina N. Herbert. “I am excited for this day to celebrate the grand opening of More Vegan Café and the significant benefits they bring to the area.”

Robert Green, owner of More Vegan Café, opened the restaurant in March 2024 with the vision to provide diverse plant-based options to the City of Columbia and North Main area. Green, originally from New York City, has been in the restaurant business for over a decade and was excited to open up this café concept in Columbia.

“One of the reasons we opened up More Vegan Café was to give people more healthy options,” said Green. “We pride ourselves on teaching people health and feeding people health. We are trying to improve the community and make it a better place to visit, play and socialize with each other.”

More Vegan Café’s menu includes plant-based dishes infused with Italian, Caribbean, American, and Asian influences that cater to a wide range of tastes, ensuring there is something for everyone. In addition to plant-based options, the menu also consists of raw dishes that are uncooked or heated to preserve enzymes and nutrients. The food is prepared through blending, juicing, dehydrating, and marinating. These foods consist of salads, raw pizza and wraps.

More Vegan Café is open from 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, and 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Wednesday - Saturday. The restaurant is closed on Sunday and Monday. For more information, please visit their website at www.MoreVeganCafe.com or stop by in-person at 4622 North Main St., Columbia, SC 29203.

To watch the grand opening, click HERE

Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Gadget Boy

Who: Mayor Daniel J. Rickenmann, Mayor Pro-Tem Will Brennan, Columbia Economic Development, Gadget Boy staff and the Devine Street Association

What: The City of Columbia cuts the ribbon for another small business, Gadget Boy. Mayor Daniel J. Rickenmann, Mayor Pro-Tem Will Brennan, Columbia Economic Development and the Devine Street Association will be in attendance to welcome the new business to our City.

Gadget Boy is a boutique electronic store with innovative tech, wide product range, upscale repairs, and exceptional service for modern consumers.

When: Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.

Where: 2822 Devine St., Columbia, SC 29205

July in Review

Beat the Heat Press Conference

On Saturday, July 13, 2024, The City of Columbia in partnership with Columbia Green held a press conference to announce a joint initiative to plant 1,750 new shade trees on private property over the next five years at no cost to property owners.

To watch the press conference, click HERE

City of Columbia Council Meeting | July 16, 2024

At the July 16, 2024 City Council Meeting, City Council presented a special proclamation to our Parks & Recreation department in celebration of Parks and Recreation Month. (Photo on left) City Manager Teresa Wilson also presented a $12,000 check to the American Heart Association for the City’s efforts during American Heart Month, which was February 2024, and the Heart Health Awareness Initiative. (Photo on right)

City of Columbia Announced New Location of Toms Creek Mobile Food Market at The COMET

Mayor Pro-Tem Will Brennan and the Office of Business Opportunities announced the new location and partnership with the Toms Creek Family Farms Mobile Food Market and The COMET. The new location for the mobile food market is at Comet Central, 1723 Sumter St.

“Finding community partners is so important when working on important quality of life issues, and food accessibility and the health of our City takes an even greater focus,” said Mayor Pro-Tem Will Brennan. “We are lucky to have an innovative and creative partnership with the Comet to bring healthy food options to our communities through the Tom’s Creek Mobile Food Market, as we bring fresh food to where the residents are.”

The City of Columbia announced the launch of Toms Creek Family Farms Mobile Food Market back in Feb. 2024 with the allocation of American Rescue Act funding from City Council. Since then, the mobile food market has increased their services to six locations from Monday-Saturday.

Monday, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Corner of Kortright St. and North Main St.

Tuesday, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Comet Central, 1723 Sumter St.

Wednesday, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Greenview Park, 6700 David St.

Thursday, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | 2012 Harden St.

Friday, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Food Truck Friday, 2300 Bull St. (REI Parking Lot)

Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Soda City Market, Intersection of Hampton St. and Main St.



“We are excited to be able to help fund the mobile market concept as a first here in Columbia,” said District 1 Councilwoman Tina N. Herbert. “ I am especially grateful for Councilmen Brennan’s idea to partner with the Comet. Whenever there is an opportunity to partner or collaborate with other public and private entities, it gives us a chance to extend and support the sustainability of new initiatives designed to help meet community needs like Tom’s Creek Mobile Market. “

In addition to hosting Toms Creek Family Farms Mobile Food Market at Comet Central, The COMET will also be marketing the food market at their transit centers, transit buses and providing information to riders on the nearest bus stops to the food market locations.

The mobile market serves areas in Columbia with a priority for the targeted 29203 and 29204 areas. The mobile market consists of fresh produce, proteins, dairy, and fresh baked goods.

Also, the market accepts a variety of payment methods to include cash, all major credit cards, SNAP benefits, and DSS Senior Voucher Program (when offered). Toms Creek Family Farms participates in the “Healthy Bucks” program that allows SNAP recipients to obtain additional fresh fruits and vegetables when they use their SNAP benefits to purchase fresh produce at participating farmer’s markets. 

City of Columbia Family Night at the Ball Park

On July 20, 2024, the City of Columbia celebrated "City of Columbia Night" at Segra Park. Chief Aubrey Jenkins, Chief Skip Holbrook, and City Manager Teresa Wilson kicked the night off by throwing the first pitches. City employees and their families were invited out to enjoy the Fireflies game.

Toms Creek Family Farms Mobile Market and the SC Department of Public Health Host Nutrition Demonstrations

On July 17, and 24, 2024, Toms Creek Mobile Market partnered with the South Carolina Department of Public Health to offer the community nutrition demonstrations and cooking lessons with foods offered at the mobile market.

Chief Holbrook Kicked-off the First Sistercare Saturday Event

On Saturday, July 27, City of Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook and other local celebrities helped the City of Columbia Public Relations, Media and Marketing Department kick off one of three Sistercare Saturday Events. The community was invited to come out to Soda City and purchase tickets to dunk different local celebrities, there was also a raffle and games at the event. All proceeds raised will go to Sistercare.

Darci Strickland Presented with Key to the City

On July 30, 2024, Mayor Pro Tem Will Brennan presented journalist Darci Strickland with a proclamation and a key to the City. Darci Strickland is an award winning journalist who has been with WLTX News 19 for 27 years. Columbia - Richland Fire Department Chief Aubrey Jenkins was also present for the celebration.

Updated City of Columbia Ordinance

False Security Alarm Management & Associated Fees

In an effort to reduce the number of false alarm calls generated by residential and business security alarm systems, a new ‘excessive false alarm’ ordinance is now being enforced.

This process enables the enforcement of amended City Ordinance Chapter 10, Law Enforcement, Article 1 False Security Alarms (2023-0123): https://bit.ly/4cqx4tY

The ordinance states that three or more false alarms at the same location within a year is considered excessive and will include a specified user fee.

Under the Ordinance, a false alarm means ‘the activation of an alarm system when, upon inspection by the police department, there is no evidence of unauthorized entry, robbery, or other such crime was committed or attempted in or on the premises which would have activated a properly

functioning alarm.’

There are three main causes of False Alarms:

1. User Error

2. Installation/Service Errors

3. Equipment Failure

Last year, Police Chief W.H. ‘Skip’ Holbrook sought ways to reduce the number of repeat false alarm calls for service across the City while lessening the strain of patrol officers responding to those calls for service. False alarms often divert law enforcement resources from crimes in progress, other emergencies, and routine patrol officer operations.

In 2022, CPD officers responded to more than 11,000 alarm calls -- 95% of which were false alarms. In June 2024, the City of Columbia entered a partnership with CentralSquare False Alarm Solutions and the computer software ‘CryWolf’. The technology tracks, reports and bills alarm owners for repeat false alarms. The amended Ordinance does NOT require an alarm registration process but will impose fines forexcessive false alarms annually from July 1 – June 30:

 Third through seventh false alarm = $100.00 Per Occurrence

 Eighth and ninth false alarm = $250.00 Per Occurrence

 Tenth or more false alarm = $500.00 Per Occurrence

** No fee will be assessed for weather-related alarm activations **

There is an appeals process. Currently, all appeals will be submitted to the Office of the City Manager for final determination.

To learn more, visit the City of Columbia’s False Alarm Management Prevention and Administration website: https://www.crywolfservices.com/columbiapolicesc/

Columbia-Richland Fire Department Youth Empowerment Academy Graduation

Who: Columbia-Richland Fire Department

What: Twelve teens chose by the Columbia Urban League took part in this year’s academy. The teens have been learning about the many ways that CRFD serves our communities and also skills that they can put to use helping their fellow citizens. The fire department will be recognizing these teens in a ceremony held at the fire museum.

When: Friday, August 2, 2024 at 10:30 a.m.

Where: CFRD Fire Museum, 1800 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC 29201

Columbia-Richland Fire Department Named ‘Fire Safe SC Community’ for Fifth Straight Year

This year now marks the fifth consecutive one that the Columbia-Richland Fire Department has been recognized for its work preventing fires in our communities.

The department was once again named a ‘Fire Safe SC Community’ by Fire Safe South Carolina. This came in response to CRFD’s continuing efforts to promote fire safety and education with our citizens during the year 2023.

“Those type of programs all fall under the umbrella of Community Risk Reduction (CRR) and they are just as important to our department as our work responding to fires and other emergencies,” said Columbia-Richland Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins, “Here at CRFD we not only strive to be there for our citizens during a time of crisis but we also want to do everything we can to prevent emergencies from occurring in the first place. Knowledge is truly the best tool we can give our citizens to help keep them safe.”

CRFD officially was recognized for their recent ‘Fire Safe SC’ community designation during the annual state Fire-Rescue in Myrtle Beach in June. Fire Captain James Bostic attended to accept the honor on behalf of the department.

In addition to providing 211 fire safety presentations and installing more than 300 free alarms in area homes during 2023, CRFD also launched several new projects over the course of the year that focused on Community Risk Reduction. In the fall, the department unveiled its new ‘Community Connect’ portal, which is now available to residents and property owners in the City of Columbia and Richland County.



The new program allows citizens to provide information on their properties that can be used ahead of an emergency situation. This can include the location of spare keys and utility shut-offs, property layout information, details on pets and much more.

CITY MEETINGS

August 1

Board of Zoning Appeals

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 4pm

August 6

City Council Meeting

Busby Street Community Center, 1735 Busby Street, 2pm

August 8

Planning Commission

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 4pm

August 13

Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee

Busby Street Community Center, 1735 Busby Street, 1pm

Council Legislative Committee

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 3pm

August 15

Design/Development Review Commission

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 4pm

August 20

City Council

Busby Street Community Center, 1735 Busby Street, 4pm

August 27

Health, Social & Environmental Affairs Committee

Busby Street Community Center, 1735 Busby Street, 1pm

Please check the city's website for updated information: https://columbiasc.gov/