🌱 Local Woman Celebrates 100th Birthday + Columbia Water Overcharges

Good morning, Columbia! Let's get you all caught up to start this Friday, April 22 off on an informed note. Here's everything you need to know about what's happening today in town.

First, today's weather:

Mostly sunny and nice. High: 83 Low: 54.

Here are the top three stories today in Columbia:

1. A Columbia woman celebrated her 100th birthday on Thursday. Miss Mary Jane Small was greeted by the Columbia Police Department, Fire Department, and her friends and family for the occasion. Watch a video of the event on News 10. (WIS News 10)
2. Columbia police responded to a bank robbery yesterday. According to police, no injuries were reported and no money was taken successfully. The robbery reportedly occurred at the Truist Bank near the corner of Bush River Road and Colonial Life Boulevard West. (WLTX 19)
3. Have you been overcharged by Columbia Water? You're not alone. A Richland woman was shocked when her bill claimed that she owed $20,000 to the utility. According to the communications manager for Columbia Water, the issue was related to an error that potentially impacted thousands. Columbia Water says that if you suspect you received an erroneous bill, you should contact their customer care center to have someone check your account. (The State)

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Today in Columbia:

• Aim High At New Brookland Tavern (7:00 p.m.)
• Arts & Draughts At The Columbia Museum of Art (7:00 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• PETSinc shared a photo of Butter, a shy but friendly tabby cat. Butter has been waiting for over 200 days to find a home - does she belong with you? (Facebook)
• The Columbia Children's Theatre is opening Junie B. Jones Top Secret Personal Beeswax Journal this Saturday. Get your tickets on the theatre's website. (Facebook)
• The Columbia Museum of Art invites you to come party! Arts & Draughts is coming up tonight and features music, local brews, and grub. Check out the post to learn more. (Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Events:

• National Hug A Plumber Day (April 25)
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Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Friday! I'll see you around.

— 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.