Car Accident Attorney inColumbia, SC

COLUMBIA, SC (WACH) — As the Midlands comes to terms with yet another senseless act of violence involving young people, several local leaders are speaking out.

“We have to figure out ways to get our youth talking about other ways of dealing with the stress and the drama and the things that they go through without violence,” said Perry Bradley with Building Better Communities.

Bradley like many other local leaders, was devastated to hear of another tragedy involving weapons and young people.

“Conflict resolution has become on the backburner of a lot of people and we're afraid to really address those issues,” he said.

Saturday’s mass shooting at Meadowlake Park marks the third incident this week where a young person hurt another with a weapon.

On Monday, a teen was charged in a drive-by shooting at a home in Northeast Columbia that injured a 16-year-old girl.

Then on Tuesday, Richland County deputies say a 17-year-old student stabbed another student at Ridge View High School.

“We're talking about our future, we must protect our futures,” said James “JT” McLawhorn with Columbia Urban League.

As leaders continue to try and steer young people away from violence, many say they’ll need help making it happen.

“Adults really have the responsibility of protecting our future and it's up to us as adults to come together,” said McLawhorn.

In a statement, Oveta Glover, President of the Columbia SC Branch of the NAACP said:

“As the President and on behalf of the Columbia SC Branch NAACP, I am extremely saddened about the horrific incident that occurred in Meadow Lake Park and the other incidents throughout Richland County, Columbia, S. C. We are disgusted that this continues to happen and the consequences are either, death, hospitalization, or jail. When will those that are involved in these actions realize that they are only destroying themselves, their families, and their communities? How can we help them to realize what they are doing and the impact of it? Now more than ever is the time for Legislators, City Council, County Council, ministerial communities, school districts, law enforcement, community leaders, and parents to work together. Time out for separation! Our babies, youth, and communities are dying, and “WE ARE DONE DYING”. I implore all of us to dig deep to find solutions TOGETHER! Our continued prayers are with the families that have been affected. Peace be with you all.”

Who’s up for margaritas?

Cinco de Mayo, Spanish for Fifth of May, will make its annual appearance on Friday. The holiday commemorates Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

For many Americans though, the day is more about drinking, partying and celebrating Mexican culture.

Whatever your reason is for recognizing Cinco de Mayo, Columbia restaurants and bars have organized events to help you celebrate. Here are six of the best Cinco de Mayo events in the Columbia area planned for this year.

When: Friday at 6 p.m.

Where: Tin Roof at 1022 Senate Street, Columbia

Swing by the Tin Roof for fun on what the business’ website says is “one of our favorite days of the year!” Tin Roof is all about hosting live music and Cinco de Mayo will be no different. The event will feature music group Outtapocket, followed by The Great Reset. And naturally, there will be plenty of margaritas and tacos for everyone.

When: Friday

Where; The Grand on Main at 1621 Main Street, Columbia

Party it up on Columbia’s Main Street for Cinco de Mayo at The Grand this year. The restaurant will offer margarita flights, taco specials and more. To reserve a table, click here.

When: Friday at 5:30 p.m.

Where: Savage Craft Ale Works at 430 Center Street, West Columbia

Savage Craft Ale Works invites everyone for a Cinco de Mayo with Caribe Latin Sound. Besides the authentic live music, there will be plenty of drinks to go around.

When: Friday at 9 p.m.

Where: Legacy Caribbean Bar Grill at 215 Oneil Court, Columbia

Join Legacy Caribbean Bar & Grill for their Cinco de Locos event. They’ll be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with $5 margaritas all night, party favors, food, drinks and music.

When: Friday at 4 p.m.

Where: Woody on Main at 1649 Main Street, Columbia

Stop by this dance club for a night of fun and entertainment. The Woody on Main plans to offer a festive Cinco de Mayo with plenty of food, dancing and Tequila and Corona specials.

When: Friday at 6:30 p.m.

Where: City Roots Organic Farm at 1005 Airport Blvd, Columbia

Not interested in bars for Cinco de Mayo this year? Then how about a hearty meal at City Roots Farm at its Cinco de Mayo Harvest Dinner? Be prepared for a family-style, four-course farm-to-table dinner, featuring seasonal ingredients from local farmers and artisans. Also enjoy cocktail and wine pairings.

Tickets are $85 each, a percentage of which will be used to support The Charitable Plate 501 C3, which provides scholarships to help shepherd the development of future chefs and farmers. To buy tickets, click here.

If you have a big Cinco de Mayo event in the Columbia area you think should be included, email pmccreless@thestate.com.

This story was originally published May 2, 2023, 7:00 AM.

COLUMBIA — The S.C. Department of Transportation broke ground on a project to redesign and modernize a major Interstate 26 interchange near Columbia as part of a larger plan to fix up the thruway connecting the capital city to Charleston and the Upstate.

The project, which will build more modern on and off ramps at the convergence of U.S. 21 and I-26 that is 12 miles south of downtown Columbia near I-77, will stimulate growth in the Midlands and statewide, SCDOT Secretary of Transportation Christy Hall said.

″(South Carolina), we’re having growing pains,” said Gov. Henry McMaster, who attended the ceremony. “We have grown and our job is to be sure that we do the right thing. We’re going in the right direction.”

The I-26/U.S. 21 interchange has stood since 1959 and is a “tangled mess of ramps” that is in desperate need of a facelift as South Carolina continues to grow, Hall said.

DOT formally broke ground on the project on May 5 and expects to start work immediately, Hall said. The project is expected to take about three years, but drivers will have access to the same number of lanes as they normally would during construction, she said.

The project will start by demolishing the U.S. 21 overpass and constructing a new bridge. The current cloverleaf ramps will be replaced with diamond shaped ramps that are more compatible with current Interstate vehicle speeds, according to a DOT statement.

Additionally, U.S. 21 and Rolling Meadows Lane will be realigned to simplify the road network and accommodate a new eastbound offramp.

The project is expected to cost $62.1 million.

Lawmakers touted the soon-to-be improved interchange as an access point to a major South Carolina business hub.

Rep. Russell Ott, D-St. Matthews, highlighted the impact the project will have for cargo access to nearby business such as Blanchard Machinery and the State Farmers Market.

Sen. Nikki Setzler, D-West Columbia, added could impact the Saxe Gotha Industrial Park, home to Nephron Pharmaceuticals and two Amazon facilities, which is just a few miles from the interchange.

Additionally, improved the infrastructure in rural areas of South Carolina could attract businesses and open up well paying jobs for people in more remote areas, Ott said.

DOT will continue to make major improvements to I-26 and update the outdated road in the coming years, Hall said.

Meanwhile, 13 miles west on I-26, construction at the convergence of I-20 and I-26, known as Malfunction Junction, is underway, as part of a $2 billion, 9-year project aimed at easing congestion in the area’s most notorious interchange.

Dedicated Senior Medical Center fuels new era of VIP care for older adults in North Main District

COLUMBIA, S.C., May 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ChenMed, a leading provider of concierge-style primary care for older adults, with more than 125 centers in underserved neighborhoods across 15 states, is now welcoming patients at its first Dedicated Senior Medical Center in South Carolina. The new Dedicated medical practice in Columbia is intentionally located in the long underserved North Main District, where tens of thousands of older residents previously were unable to benefit from outstanding access to primary care doctors in their neighborhoods.

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"I am so happy to be one of Dedicated's first patients in Columbia," says 106-year-old resident Lecie Worthy, adding, "I love how my Dedicated doctor treats me like family. She gave me her cell phone number, so I can call or text anytime, and she encourages me to come in for walk-in and same-day appointments."

Ms. Worthy, who cut the ribbon for the new center from her wheelchair, surprised and delighted the audience, earning a standing ovation for her strong rendition of the "Can You Truly Say God is Yours" hymn.

Thousands of local seniors are expected to quickly join more than 300 older adults already benefitting from the personalized, high-touch, value-based care Dedicated primary care providers are delivering at the new center located at 5900 North Main Street. The center is a little north of where the $59.2 million Richland County road widening and upgrades project (North Main between Anthony and Fuller Avenues) last week celebrated completion after several years of corridor improvement work.

Hundreds of local seniors and community leaders participated in today's grand opening that featured U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn; State Representative Christopher Hart; Richland County Councilwoman Yvonne McBridge; City of Columbia Councilman Edward H. McDowell, Jr.; Reverend Dr. Anthony A. McCallum, Bethlehem Baptist Church; singer and evangelist Toccara Spann; food, music, dancing, and VIP tours.

During today's formal addresses at the Dedicated grand opening in the North Main District's 29203 zip code:

Dedicated provides superior, coordinated care focused on seniors with Medicare Advantage, many of whom have multiple major and chronic conditions. Fully focused on preventive care, Dedicated earns patient trust by delivering VIP service during every visit or call.

Dedicated locates centers in communities where a lack of access to high-quality primary care and other social determinants of health has negatively impacted longevity for many years. These barriers have shortened average life spans by as much as 20 years when compared to others living in nearby more affluent zip codes. So, the innovative medical practice is working to address what Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. heralded more than 50 years ago: "Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and the most inhumane."

"Almost 80 percent of older adults living in the North Main District are African Americans and every senior deserves compassionate, affordable care," says Meera Kelley, M.D., regional chief medical officer for Dedicated Southeast. "Our clinicians focus on earning trust with every visit, with every call, and with every text. They also encourage walk-in and same-day appointments for patients in need – all to transform health in ways proven to reduce emergency room visits and hospitalizations by 33 percent."

An April 2022 central Carolinas perception survey of residents ages 65 or older and responsible for their healthcare decisions (N=152) found that:

Dedicated providers at the event explained how their medical practice fulfills its purpose by being accountable for helping their patients achieve better health. The Dedicated staff provides personalized, friendly care and ensures their patients can get the care they need when they need it. Dedicated's care teams give patients their cell phone numbers and respond quickly to patient calls or texts. Dedicated also offers same-day appointments, whenever needed. Additionally, Dedicated centers help reduce barriers to healthy living and help seniors benefit from community services.

The highly personalized care at Dedicated leads to happier and healthier patients, as noted by a 2022 third-party survey of more than 76,500 ChenMed patients:

About Dedicated Senior Medical Center:Dedicated is part of ChenMed, which today operates more than 125 centers in 15 states. The hyper-growth company employs outstanding primary care physicians and specialist doctors who are empowered to deliver VIP service; to detect and effectively manage high-risk diseases; and to reduce hospital sick days for Medicare-eligible seniors, many of whom are living with multiple and major chronic conditions. ChenMed is a privately owned medical, management and technology company that delivers the high-touch and personalized primary care Medicare-eligible seniors need to enjoy better health. Named one of Fortune 2020 "Change the World" companies, twice a "Most Loved Workplace" by Newsweek Magazine, and a certified Great Place to Work® by the Great Place to Work Institute, ChenMed brings concierge-style medicine and better health outcomes to the neediest populations. See ChenMed's 2022 Impact Report.

SOURCE ChenMed

Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, Columbia offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. As the state capital, it’s a bustling city that’s home to several colleges and universities, making it a vibrant and diverse community. But, like any place, there are pros and cons to living in Columbia. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor looking into the Columbia housing market, this city has a whole heap of perks that more than make up for any downsides.

In this Redfin article, we’ll weigh the advantages against the disadvantages to calling South Carolina’s capital your new home.

Pros of living in Columbia

Columbia’s affordability is a significant advantage, whether you’re buying a house or renting an apartment in the heart of the city. The cost of living in Columbia is lower than the national average and significantly lower than other major U.S. cities. Housing costs, in particular, are very reasonable. The median home price in Columbia is around $244K, which is substantially less than the median home price in other major cities such as New York or Los Angeles.

Additionally, Columbia has a variety of options for budget-friendly entertainment, such as free concerts and festivals throughout the year which can really reduce the cost of living there. There are also many parks and outdoor spaces to explore, and many of them are free to the public. Dining out in Columbia can also be relatively inexpensive, with plenty of affordable restaurants and cafes to choose from.

Columbia is known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, which is a significant draw for many residents. The city has a strong sense of community, with residents taking pride in their hometown and working together to make it a great place to live. An excellent example of this is the Soda City Market, which takes place every Saturday morning in downtown Columbia. It’s a farmers market, craft fair, and community gathering all in one, where locals come together to shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts, and to catch up with their neighbors. The market is a great way to experience Columbia’s Southern charm firsthand, and it’s a beloved local tradition.

Columbia’s climate is another advantage for those looking to live in a comfortable year-round environment. The city has a humid subtropical climate, which means hot summers and cool winters. However, the temperatures rarely reach extreme levels, with the hottest month, July, averaging a high of around 92 degrees Fahrenheit and the coldest month, January, averaging a low of around 36 degrees Fahrenheit. This mild climate allows residents to enjoy outdoor activities throughout the year, from hiking and biking in the spring and fall to boating and swimming in the summer.

Columbia has a rich and fascinating history, with many landmarks and sites to explore. The South Carolina State House is a magnificent building that has been the seat of the state government since 1786. It’s open to the public for tours, and visitors can see historic documents, paintings, and sculptures. The Columbia Museum of Art is another great example of the city’s history, with a collection that spans centuries of European and American art, as well as modern and contemporary works. Finally, the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a must-visit for anyone interested in the natural history of the area, featuring over 2,000 animals from around the world, including rare and endangered species.

Columbia is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, which is a highlight for foodies and casual diners alike. Barbecue is a particular specialty, with local spots like Southern Belly BBQ and Doc’s Barbecue serving up mouth-watering pulled pork and brisket. Seafood is another popular option, with restaurants like Blue Marlin and Pearlz Oyster Bar offering fresh and flavorful dishes. For something sweet, Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles is a local favorite, with its famous chicken and waffles combo and delicious sweet potato pie. Overall, there’s no shortage of fantastic dining options in Columbia, and residents can easily explore a variety of cuisines and styles.

Cons of living in Columbia

While the mild climate in Columbia is generally a plus, there is one major downside: the sticky, humid summers. For some folks, the humidity is no big deal, and they can handle a little bit of sweat and frizzy hair. But for others, the humidity can be downright unbearable, turning a leisurely stroll through the park into a sauna-like experience. Locals have all sorts of tips and tricks for surviving the summer months, from carrying a personal fan to avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. And let’s not forget about the dreaded “humidity hair” – that puffy, frizzy look that seems to defy all attempts at taming. So, if you’re planning to make Columbia your home, just be prepared for a little extra moisture in the air and maybe invest in a good leave-in conditioner.

Before you move to Columbia just know you’ll be in a constant battle with the state bird: the mosquito. While these pesky insects are not unique to Columbia, they do seem to have a particular affinity for the area’s warm and humid climate. As a result, locals have become experts at mosquito avoidance techniques, from slathering on bug spray to strategically positioning citronella candles around their yards. If there is any relief, mosquitos there tend to come swarming in seasons, so no worries because it won’t last forever. Be prepared to make friends with some itchy bumps and invest in plenty of insect repellent.

While there are certainly bars and clubs in the area, the scene may not be as extensive or diverse. Some visitors or new residents may find that the options for after-hours entertainment can feel limited, especially if they are used to a more vibrant nightlife. Part of the reason for this may be the size of the city.

That being said, Columbia still has plenty to offer for those looking to enjoy a night out on the town. The city has a number of popular bars and nightclubs, and there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes that stay open late, as well as outdoor parks and venues that host events and concerts throughout the year. While it may not offer the same level of nightlife options as some larger cities, Columbia can still be a fun and enjoyable place to spend an evening with friends or loved ones.

Columbia’s transportation options can be a challenge for those without access to a car, with a Walk Score of 35 out of 100, a Transit Score of 0 out of 100, and a Bike Score of 35 out of 100. While the city does have some public transportation options, such as buses and shuttles, the system may not be as comprehensive or efficient as in other cities, making it difficult for those who rely on public transportation to get around the city. Additionally, Finding parking in certain parts of Columbia can be challenging because the infrastructure may not be as developed or extensive as in other areas.

One potential drawback to living in Columbia is the risk of hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November. While Columbia is not located directly on the coast, it’s still vulnerable to the effects of hurricanes, such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, and power outages. In the past, the city has experienced damage from hurricanes and tropical storms, such as Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and Tropical Storm Michael in 2018. While residents can take precautions to prepare for a hurricane, the risk of property damage and potential evacuation can be a concern for some.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.