The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in West Columbia plans a free Emergency Preparedness Fair Saturday, Feb. 23.
I contacted Kimberly Waters, the Director for Public Affairs at the church in West Columbia, who told me that preparedness is part of life in Mormon families.
I remembered that from Mormon friends growing up in Columbia. Not just for disasters, like a tornado of hurricane, but they planned and prepared for sudden or prolonged illness, job loss, financial loss or unexpected expenses. They helped others in their extended families when something happened to them.
A “Welfare Square” and a Relief Society in Utah serves as a disaster relief resource anywhere in the world. Each state has at least one Relief Society and a “Bishop’s Warehouse.” They gather whatever is needed and distribute it to those who need it. There is one in NE Columbia for the Midlands.
The annual fair at the church on Whippoorwill Drive in West Columbia was started years ago. Members were encouraged to invite neighbors and friends. 
It grew to offer more programs and resources each year. This one will be no exception.
It will run from 9 am to 2 pm, beginning with a general meeting and welcome. 
Classes will be on topics such as growing, storing, and preserving your own food, safe water sources, surviving when electricity goes out, 72-hour kits and first aid. 
You are free to attend as many training classes as you like with time for questions.
The event is free with food and dessert for all. For more information, contact Paul Major at 803-924-0501 or cpaulmajor@bellsouth.net .
Do you have a ministry that you want to talk about? Contact me by phone at 803-348-0243 or email at 
Chuck.lexchron@gmail.com .