Tillis Center to Cancel Events Through April 3rd

Columbia, SC.......In light of South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster's decision to declare a state of emergency and close down schools in selected areas due to the coronavirus pandemic-Interim Executive Director Ivory Mathews has announced plans to cancel all scheduled events at the Tillis Center at 2111 Simpkins and restrict future activity there until April 3rd.

On Wednesday, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus outbreak as a pandemic after it spread across six continents and more than 100 countries.

"It is important that we remain mindful of the immediate need to observe rules of social distancing," says Mathews. "On the heels of the World Health Organization declaring the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic, the CDC recommends that citizens practice social distancing where possible. We are continuing to monitor the recommendations of our state and local officials,  and we will take actions accordingly," concludes Mathews.

Social distancing refers to measures that are taken to increase physical space between people to slow the spread of the virus. Examples include cancellation of mass gatherings, college classes, conferences, etc. By maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet from others when possible, people may limit the spread of the virus.

Columbia Housing's Tillis Center is a popular community event venue-home to weddings, birthday celebrations, family reunions, etc.  Columbia Housing staff is contacting groups who've previously booked the Tillis Center to let them know the venue is closed until April 3rd. Groups will receive refunds on their deposits and Columbia Housing will accommodate rescheduling events.