The Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce sponsored a ribbon-cutting at the new West Columbia Planet Fitness at 2410 Augusta Road in the Danwood Shopping Center, Thursday. West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles was on hand for the event. He welcomed the new business and all of the staff members who have been hired.

Chamber President Tim James thanked Planet Fitness Owner Brian Bobenage for opening the 26,000 sq-ft. facility. It anchors the shopping center, that over the past year has been completely remodeled.

Bobenage, who was in corporate healthcare, owns several area Planet Fitness locations. James thanked him for bring economic development and jobs to West Columbia via expansion. Bobenage said he has opened the Planet Fitness gyms to encourage health, instead of treating sickness.

Bobenage awarded 50 scholarships to the Cayce and West Columbia Fire and Police Departments for first responders. West Columbia Police and Fire Chiefs, Marion Boyce and Marquis Solomon were on hand with Cayce Police and Fire Chiefs Shawn Grant and Steve Bullard. Several firefighters and police officers were in attendance.

Bobenage also presented a $1,500 check to the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Midlands.

Other stores in the Danwood Shopping Center include Pet Supplies Plus, Casa Oaxaca, Liberty Tax, Starbucks, and McAlister’s Deli.