Janet Rogers, left, business manager of WINGS, and Camille Breland, chairwoman of the board of WINGS, recently spoke to the Lions Club of Columbia. WINGS, which stands for Women In Need of God’s Shelter, provides immediate assistance and housing for women and children fleeing domestic violence. Breland and Rogers explained what started out as a safe gap for first responders and the private sector has evolved into so much more. They provide house fire aid to families who have lost everything, and families can find all their immediate household needs, free of charge, in the thrift store. Breland and Rogers encouraged members not to throw away items perhaps deemed unworthy of donation because they can be repurposed and donated to third-world charities. Many churches have been involved in supporting WINGS, as well as the Board of Supervisors, by incorporating WINGS into the local budget. WINGS is hopeful more boards will commit to funding. Breland acknowledged all of the staffers at WINGS. Breland also emphasized the lack of residual assistance necessary when the proper foundation is provided.
From left, Columbia High School Marching Wildcats Percussion Director Chase Herrod, Director Leslie Lawrence Fortenberry and Color Guard Instructor Chris Turnage smile alongside Lions Club President Charlie Connerly, a proud former member of the band. The Marching Wildcats recently won their third straight state championship and their 10th overall. The band is raising funds to purchase state championship rings, which run between $400 to $500. There are 121 current band members. An estimate for every member to receive a ring for their hard work, commitment and excellence is $52,000.
CHS Marching Wildcats Color Guard Instructor Chris Turnage shows off his bling alongside Lions Club President Charlie Connerly, who is also sporting his own state championship rings.
Jacob Morgan recently visited the Lions Club gave a brief history of chess and how there are many modern options online. He invited the Lions Club members to join Chess Night that will be held every second Tuesday of the month, starting at 6 p.m. at the Second Street Bean.
Lions Club members participated in Operation Christmas Child with the collection center based at Goss Baptist Church. The shoeboxes had various sundries and basic need items and will be sent to third-world countries for Christmas cheer and to inspire hope and wellbeing. From left are Kim Morgan, four Lions Club members, Goss Baptist Church Pastor Bryan Malone and Pam Polk. Polk and Morgan are the Marion County coordinators with Goss Baptist Church.
