Photo by Emerson Smith

Our speaker last Friday June 14, 2013 meeting was retired businessman and philanthropist Samuel Tenenbaum, who is President of the Palmetto Health Foundation. The Foundation promotes awareness of Palmetto Health’s programs and services. Tenenbaum explained that the “Palmetto Promise” to come to New York City’s aid if needed in the future, was  made by a retired confederate colonel at the dedication of  a of the Columbia firehouse in 1867.  The firehouse (what is now Villa Tronco)  was built by union soldiers from the Bronx,  New York .  This promise was kept by Columbia area folks raisng funds for the donation of a half-million dollar hook and ladder firetruck to New York City following 9/11.  Columbia’s housing of Hurricane Katrina refugees and always finding funding for healthcare and other needs, shows the generous nature of Columbians.  If asked, and the need is compelling– they will help.