🌱 School District Drops Mask Mandate + Worker Shortage

Good morning, neighbors! It's me again, Dan Casarella, your host of the Columbia Daily.

First, today's weather:

Some rain and a thunderstorm. High: 58 Low: 21.

Here are the top three stories today in Columbia:

1. The Columbia school district will lift its mask mandate after weeks of parent complaints. On Mar. 14, students and staff will no longer be required to wear masks in schools. Masks may still be optionally worn. (Post and Courier)
2. The City of Columbia is having difficulty finding city workers. In an address to the South Carolina House of Representatives, Mayor Daniel Rickenmann stated this was because the city is in a housing crisis. The workforce in the city is unable to grow because there are no available units for new residents to live in. (The State)
3. The Columbia Police Department announced its new community policing app for officers. The app is being developed by Nephron Pharmaceuticals Corporation and will bring residents and police together to address crime and promote safety. The app will be developed over a six-month period. (Press Release Desk)

Today in Columbia:

• Touch-A-Truck At Saluda Shoals Park (10:00 AM)

From my notebook:

• Volunteer a couple of hours of your time to help make sure the City of Columbia has the data we need – this Spring we’re doing roadway surveys on Mar. 26 - Apr. 7, and the City’s Planning Division could use your help! (Facebook)
• Columbia's Community Development will discuss the allocation of HOME-ARP funds to reduce homelessness and increase housing stability in the City. The virtual public hearing is Wednesday, Mar. 23 at 5:30 p.m. (Facebook)
• The City of Columbia will host a career fair on Apr. 26, 2022! For more information, please visit this link. (Facebook)

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That's it for today. 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.