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Call us 877-451-9251Water Damage Restoration in Columbia, SC
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from Columbia College in Columbia to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Columbia, SC is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Columbia. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
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Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like MannSimons Site in Columbia, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Columbia.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Columbia, SC
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Colonial Gardens Assisted Living Memory Care in Columbia for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Columbia, SC, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Columbia?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park in Columbia. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Columbia, SC, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to Robert Mills House and Gardens in Columbia, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Columbia restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Columbia, SC, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Columbia, SC
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in Columbia, SC, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Halls Chophouse Columbia in Columbia. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Columbia rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Columbia, SC
Where to see holiday lights around Columbia, SC
Samantha Robertsonhttps://colatoday.6amcity.com/where-to-see-christmas-lights-around-columbia-sc
We had a reader write in sharing a love for our historic marker map — which you should add to if you haven’t already — and asked if we would consider doing something similar for local holiday lights. Reader Stanton shared, “Every year we go driving around looking at Christmas lights. It would be nice to have suggestions for all those neighborhoods that decorate at level 10.”...
We had a reader write in sharing a love for our historic marker map — which you should add to if you haven’t already — and asked if we would consider doing something similar for local holiday lights. Reader Stanton shared, “Every year we go driving around looking at Christmas lights. It would be nice to have suggestions for all those neighborhoods that decorate at level 10.”
So, we’re looking for you to inform us on this one. Readers and we alike are looking to grab hot cocoa, turn on the seat warmers, crank up the holiday music + go for a drive to explore festive displays right in our neighborhoods.
You’re in the driver’s seat. Where are some of Cola’s best (level 10) holiday light displays? Think: neighborhood, public, or residential displays. Submit your favorite place to see holiday lights in Cola to our local map by Thursday, Dec. 5.
We added the first points on the map, featuring three light displays around the Midlands you shouldn’t miss.
Fireflies Holiday Lights | Friday, Nov. 15 to Saturday, Jan. 4 — exclusion dates apply | Segra Park, 1640 Freed St., Columbia | $10+ | Read about what you can expect at this year’s holiday light show. Spoiler alert — it will feature more lights + entertainment for the whole family.
Holiday Lights on the River | Wednesday, Nov. 27-Tuesday, Dec. 31 | 6-10 p.m. | Saluda Shoals Park | $25+ | Journey through more than three miles of lights featuring colorful, animated light displays of all shapes and sizes
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden - Lights Before Christmas | Select nights Friday, Nov. 15 through Sunday, Jan. 12 | 5-9 p.m. | Riverbanks Zoo and Garden | $20+ | Take your photo with Santa, roast marshmallows at the Jingle Bell Bonfire, and be sure to wear your hat. Pro tip: it snows nightly at Riverbanks during the Lights Before Christmas.
Ready to add your own? Submit here.
Check your tickets. A winning Powerball game was sold at a gas station near I-26 in SC
Noah Feithttps://www.thestate.com/news/lottery/article296610044.html
A person who bought a Powerball ticket at a gas station near Interstate 26 prior to Wednesday’s drawing was one number away from winning the game’s $240 million grand prize, South Carolina Education Lottery officials said Thursday in a news release.Although the ticket buyer didn’t win the game’s jackpot, the person will be ...
A person who bought a Powerball ticket at a gas station near Interstate 26 prior to Wednesday’s drawing was one number away from winning the game’s $240 million grand prize, South Carolina Education Lottery officials said Thursday in a news release.
Although the ticket buyer didn’t win the game’s jackpot, the person will be rewarded with a $50,000 payday for coming so close, according to the release.
Now the search is underway for the winner.
The five-figure winning Powerball game was sold at the Murphy Express gas station/convenience store at 2818 Augusta Road in West Columbia, officials said. That’s in an area which is densely packed with retail businesses and restaurants just off Exit 111 on I-26.
The ticket matched four white ball numbers and the red Powerball number in Wednesday’s Double Play drawing, a feat that has odds of 1-in-913,129 of occurring, officials said.
Because the ticket buyer originally purchased the $1 Double Play option with their normal Powerball game, the five-figure prize was won in the second drawing held after the regular Powerball drawing, lottery officials said.
The winning numbers in Wednesday’s Double Play drawing were 14, 35, 43, 48, 54 and Powerball: 1.
The winner has 180 days to claim the prize, according to lottery officials.
The winner will be allowed to retain some privacy, as South Carolina is one of 11 states — along with Arizona, Delaware, Georgia, Kansas, Maryland, New Jersey, North Dakota, Ohio, Texas and Virginia — that allow lottery winners to remain anonymous.
“Sign the back of your ticket and put it in a safe location until you’re ready to come forward to claim the prize,” lottery officials said.
For complete information on claiming prizes, go to sceducationlottery.com.
The Murphy Express on Augusta Road is expected to receive a commission for selling the winning ticket.
Just outside of the Midlands area of South Carolina, there was another $50,000 winning ticket from Wednesday’s traditional Powerball drawing. That ticket was sold in Greenwood at the Hot Spot gas station/convenience store on U.S. 25 South, according to the release.
The winning numbers in Wednesday’s regular drawing were 1, 23, 25, 28, 61 and Powerball: 13.
Like the winning ticket in the Double Play drawing, this game matched four of the first five numbers drawn and the Powerball number, officials said.
Because there was no grand prize winner in Wednesday’s traditional drawing, the jackpot for Saturday’s Powerball drawing has risen to $260 million, according to the game’s website.
Anyone looking to buy a ticket must make a purchase by 9:59 p.m. Saturday for the 10:59 p.m. drawing. Tickets are $2, and could cost more with additional options.
The odds of winning Powerball’s grand prize are 1-in-293 million.
In a breaking news situation, facts can be unclear and the situation may still be developing. The State is trying to get important information to the public as quickly and accurately as possible. This story will be updated as more information becomes available, and some information in this story may change as the facts become clearer. Refresh this page later for more updated information.
What USC’s Kyle Kennard said about decision on Citrus Bowl, USC future
Jordan Kayehttps://www.thestate.com/sports/college/university-of-south-carolina/usc-football/article296819749.html
Kyle Kennard hasn’t made up his mind yet on if he will play in South Carolina’s bowl game.In Charlotte on Monday night as a finalist for the Bronko Nagurski Award — given annually to the nation’s top defensive player — Kennard said he still has not made his decision about whether or not he’ll play in the Citrus Bowl.Kennard told The State i...
Kyle Kennard hasn’t made up his mind yet on if he will play in South Carolina’s bowl game.
In Charlotte on Monday night as a finalist for the Bronko Nagurski Award — given annually to the nation’s top defensive player — Kennard said he still has not made his decision about whether or not he’ll play in the Citrus Bowl.
Kennard told The State it will come down to a “consultation with my family.”
The Gamecocks will play Illinois in Orlando on Dec. 31.
Kennard, a Georgia Tech transfer, had a breakout season in his lone year for the Gamecocks. He finished with 28 tackles (15.5 for loss), a team-high 11.5 sacks, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
“I feel like South Carolina gave me a platform to do what I’ve been doing, so I’ll always be grateful and cherish that forever,” Kennard said. “I’ll cherish the relationships I’ve made here, even though it was a short period of time, as far as in the college football world, I’ve made lifelong connections and friends here.”
Kennard is one of several USC starters that could opt out of the game if they chose.
Gamecocks coach Shane Beamer said Sunday night that no player had come to him and said they weren’t playing in the bowl game. And that doesn’t mean some won’t eventually opt out.
Beamer said bowl prep will begin later this week after players are done with final exams. The Gamecocks are scheduled to arrive in Orlandon on Dec. 26.
“I met with some guys last week in my office individually about their decision,” Beamer said. “They’re still certainly on the fence.”
The Citrus Bowl is the only SEC-affiliated bowl game that gets to choose one of the conference’s teams. Whatever non-playoff SEC squad the Citrus Bowl wanted, it would get. And, well, it picked South Carolina over Alabama, Ole Miss and everyone else.
“That’s a strong statement,” Beamer said. “There’s a lot of SEC teams out there. A lot of them that are ranked that aren’t in the playoff. And for them to say, ‘We want the South Carolina Gamecocks,’ is just an awesome statement.”
The jubilation, too, extended beyond just the head coach. Beamer said — in an era where bowl games have lost some luster and opt-outs are common — there is a strong “ground swell” in the Gamecocks’ locker room to compete in the Citrus Bowl and earn a 10th win for just the fifth time in program history.
This story was originally published December 9, 2024, 5:22 PM.
‘Queen of Hip-Hop Soul’ is adding a Columbia concert to her upcoming tour
Noah Feithttps://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/news/state/south-carolina/article296802989.html
Music legend Mary J. Blige is coming to Columbia next year for a concert, promoters said Monday in a news release.Blige, called “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul,” will bring her “The For My Fans Tour,” to Colonial Life Arena on Feb. 5, 2025. This is currently the Grammy and Emmy award-winning and Oscar-nominated performer’s only scheduled ...
Music legend Mary J. Blige is coming to Columbia next year for a concert, promoters said Monday in a news release.
Blige, called “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul,” will bring her “The For My Fans Tour,” to Colonial Life Arena on Feb. 5, 2025. This is currently the Grammy and Emmy award-winning and Oscar-nominated performer’s only scheduled tour stop in South Carolina.
Tickets for the Columbia show will go on sale to the public on Friday at 10 a.m., but a multiple presale events will begin Tuesday at ticketmaster.com.
Information about ticket prices was not available.
Blige’s Colonial Life Arena concert is scheduled to include special guests NE-YO and Mario.
The tour will kickoff Jan. 30, 2025, in Greensboro, North Carolina, and will feature more Tar Heel State stops in Raleigh (Jan. 31) and Charlotte (Feb. 6) in addition to a performance in Atlanta, Georgia, on Feb. 3.
The tour comes on the heels of her new album “Gratitude,” which was released Nov. 15.
Blige has eight multiplatinum albums and has won nine Grammy Awards (in 37 nominations), as well as an Emmy award, and she also has two Academy Award nominations, two Golden Globe nominations, and a SAG nomination, promoters said in the release. In October, she was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, according to the release.
Blige is known for her “gritty, urban-rooted style — fusing hip-hop, soul, and honest, frank lyrics,” promoters said.
Among her many hits are the songs “Family Affair,” “Real Love,” “You Remind Me,” “I’m Goin’ Down,” “Not Gon’ Cry,” “Be Without You” and “Just Fine.”
Blige is also a successful actress, starring as Florence Jackson in the 2017 Netflix breakout film “Mudbound,” earning her critical acclaim including two Academy Award nominations for Best Support Actress and Best Original Song, according to the release. She became the first person ever to be nominated in an acting and song category for the same film.
NE-YO is a three-time Grammy Award-winner whose musical catalog has generated a combined 23 billion streams, according to the release. His debut single, 2005’s “So Sick,” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified quadruple-platinum.
Since then, the Motown Records/Compound Entertainment recording artist has racked up a collection of global hits including “Sexy Love,” “Closer,” “Because of You,” “Miss Independent,” and “Push Back.”
Mario is a Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling R&B singer, songwriter who has had hits with songs “Just A Friend,” and “Let Me Love You.”
In a breaking news situation, facts can be unclear and the situation may still be developing. The State is trying to get important information to the public as quickly and accurately as possible. This story will be updated as more information becomes available, and some information in this story may change as the facts become clearer. Refresh this page later for more updated information.
This story was originally published December 9, 2024, 9:37 AM.
Columbia band hosts 'Recess on the River,' a free, come-as-you-are concert on the Congaree
Kwasi Brown Special to Free Timeshttps://www.postandcourier.com/free-times/music/writ3rs-block-music-band-riverfront-concerts-free/article_08671e10-b1ba-11ef-8bd1-b385686c910a.html
If you’ve ever strolled through Columbia's Riverfront Park, crossed the bridge and glanced to your left thinking, “This would be the perfect spot for a picnic,” it seems like the band Writ3rs Block took that thought and turned it into something remarkable.Their signature event, ...
If you’ve ever strolled through Columbia's Riverfront Park, crossed the bridge and glanced to your left thinking, “This would be the perfect spot for a picnic,” it seems like the band Writ3rs Block took that thought and turned it into something remarkable.
Their signature event, Recess on the River, stands out as the most unique open mic experience in Columbia, set outdoors on the grass right beside the Congaree River. The band — comprising Richard Thomas on guitar, Blane the MC, and Olivia Zoe as the vocalist — brings a refreshing, original energy to the city’s music scene.
Follow Writ3rs Block on Instagram, @writ3rsblockmusic, to catch the next riverside concert, and get to know the musicians with our Q&A (edited for length):
Olivia Zoe: We are Writ3r's Block, and this is Recess on the River, which is a community event that we started doing this summer to just showcase other local artists and also just have a an inclusive, family friendly environment.
Blane: It's all about just building a community, nourishing the soil and seeing what comes from it. Man, a lot of times, movements start with community, you know, and the more that we can all share a space, all create a curated environment, the more that that just starts to catch momentum.
And the idea was really just like, man, what can we do if no one showed up? ... we could just play music by the river. We play outside, you know? And then the idea of recess occurred. We came out here in May, I think the first one, we had like six or seven people. And then throughout, we've had some upwards to like 80 to 100.
Richard Thomas: It’s all about fun. We're just getting out here, seeing what we can do.
Free Times: Alright, so you guys are a band yourself. Let's talk a little bit about that.
Blane: Writ3r's Block is all about just following your imagination. Sometimes we come against these blockades of creativity, but really it's just pushing us to be creative in a new way or try something different. There's a lot of different influences, from Olivia Zoe singer/songwriter to, you know, I love hip hop. Richard Thomas is a dope electric guitarist. So bringing all of those elements and, even down to some Southern rock influence and things like that.
Free Times: Was there a goal in mind when you started this, or was it just something cool to do?
Olivia Zoe: Whenever we first started, I would say there wasn't necessarily a goal. It was just something that we wanted to do. But as we continued to do this and started to watch it grow, we started to get ideas about what it could be in the future. Ideally, this would become something of a music festival, like a staple music festival in Columbia that always stays free and showcases local artists.
Blane: I think it's really important that people get an opportunity to see local shows. And the beautiful thing is, there's so much talent in Columbia.
Olivia Zoe: We've met so many people through doing this.
Free Times: so you said going forward that you ultimately would like this to be a festival, but in the meantime, is there a way that people can help or contribute?
Olivia Zoe: obviously, monetary donations are always welcome. But also, if you come to a recess event and you just bring a case of waters, because we provide water for everybody ... bring a blanket, bring a game.
Free Times: You want to leave us with any parting shots? Each one of you guys who has anything you want to say, anything you want to leave the people with?
Blane: Your imagination can be your best friend or your enemy. So show it love, give it time, treat it like a relationship. Let your imagination bloom within you and try the things that come to your mind. It might sound crazy, but you never know until you just do it. The right person might show up to be able to help you build it to how you truly see it. So treat your imagination like your best friend.
Olivia Zoe: Follow what feels silly, that's your inner child trying to guide you, trying to help you free yourself.
Richard Thomas: I just say, get out of your own way. Do what feels good, and don't put yourself down about it.
Blane: Support local. Man, shoutout the Free Times. Shoutout local artists. Shout out to the park rangers at Riverfront Park, man, they always show us love.
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