With storms in the forecast for Sunday, the City of West Columbia is closing city parks.
The following parks will be closed beginning Sunday:
The city will notify the public when the parks reopen.
According to the National Weather Service, there is a 100% chance of precipitation Sunday in the Columbia area. Showers and thunderstorms are expected before noon, possibly a thunderstorm between noon and 1 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch are possible.
A group of students from Irmo High School’s Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) and National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) partnered with Emmanuwheel, a local non-profit organization, to build a wheelchair ramp, improving a local family’s home and making it more accessible for a loved one with mobility challenges.
Working alongside Emmanuwheel volunteers on a Saturday afternoon, the students combined their skills and teamwork to construct a sturdy, safe, and functional ramp. This essential addition to this home will help the family navigate their house more easily, addressing some of the challenges they had been facing.
This project not only provided a much-needed solution for the family but also emphasized the values of service and leadership in the students. It showcased the importance of giving back to the community and demonstrated the powerful change that can come from teamwork and collaboration.
“We’re proud of what we accomplished and grateful to have worked together with both FCCLA and NTHS,” said Irmo High School Junior Serifina Koroma. “As a member of both student organizations, we were happy to give up our Saturday to help a local family in need. This project embodies the spirit of community service and shows how young leaders can make a real difference.”
Through their efforts in building the wheelchair ramp, the Irmo High School students not only enhanced the family’s living situation but also set an example for others about the significance of community service, teamwork, and giving back.
Emmanuwheel, an organization committed to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities, has long been dedicated to helping families in need.
"Their partnership with Irmo High School students is a testament to the impact of local collaborations in creating meaningful change within the community," a spokesperson said from the school district said.
The Irmo students plan to partner with Emmanuwheel again next year to continue making a difference in the community.
Prepare to raise your glasses to help raise roofs throughout the Midlands.
Central S.C. Habitat for Humanity has partnered with BMW of Columbia to host their second annual Brew 2 Build Festival on April 5th from 2-6 p.m. at The Coop, a tailgating hub beside Williams-Brice Stadium.
Brew 2 Build will feature unlimited brews and wines to sample from across the country, including alcohol-free selections, mocktails and specialty waters. The festival will have vehicles on display from BMW of Columbia, music with DJ Preach Jacobs, games, local favorite food trucks, a mobile cigar lounge, and a raffle with incredible prizes.
“Our organization is beyond excited to be able to bring Brew 2 Build back for a second, and even better year” remarks Central SC Interim Executive Director, Emily Fernald. “We took your compliments and your feedback to heart and can’t wait for everyone to be able to experience the improvements. At Central SC Habitat, we feel that the word ‘fundraiser’ starts with ‘fun’ for a reason. We hope you will come out on April 5th and join us for some great fun for a great mission.”
All proceeds of Brew 2 Build directly support Central South Carolina Habitat for Humanity’s efforts to build affordable homes and continue revitalizing neighborhoods throughout the Midlands.
This event is for ages 21 and older. Every attendee must have proper identification. Tickets for Brew 2 Build are $45 per person, or 2 for $80 in advance and $50 at the gate. Designated driver discount tickets are available for $15. Tickets are available for purchase at www.habitatcsc.org.