Author: Staff

COLUMBIA, SC – The South Carolina women’s soccer team (11-3-7) made a strong start in the NCAA Tournament by defeating East Carolina (10-4-7) with an impressive score of 6-0. Freshman Katie Shea Collins scored three goals, marking her second hat trick of the season. Fifth-year player Catherine Barry added two goals, while goalkeeper Taylor Fox scored her first career goal. HOW IT HAPPENED Catherine Barry’s two goals allowed her to break the program record for the most career goals, bringing her total to 51. Additionally, her 18 goals this season set a new record for the most goals in a…

SUMTER, S.C. (WOLO) – The Sumter Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in locating a man connected to a shooting incident that took place on Thursday, November 14. Mario Latrell Spencer, 40 years old, is suspected of firing shots into an apartment at the Harmony Courts complex during an argument with another individual. After the shooting, he left the area. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries from the incident. Authorities encourage anyone with information on Spencer’s whereabouts to contact the Sumter Police Department at 803-436-2700 or reach out to CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIMESC.

COLUMBIA, S.C. – As the holiday season approaches, local police departments and charitable organizations are eager to help those in need. If you’re feeling generous this holiday season, consider donating to one of the following initiatives: Join the spirit of giving with the Shop with a Cop program. The Irmo Police Department Community Foundation is collecting donations until December 5 to assist families in the community during the holidays. Contributions can be dropped off at the Irmo Police Department located at 1230 Columbia Ave., Irmo, SC 29063. You can also donate online at irmopdcommunityfoundation.org or send donations via mail. Blythewood…

COLUMBIA, SC – The Joseph S. Azar Community Garden at T.S. Martin Neighborhood Park has officially opened its doors to the public. City Councilman Ed McDowell expressed the significance of the garden, stating, “This garden showcases the hard work of both seniors and children. It symbolizes our community and the city as a whole as we continue to grow and thrive together.” The new garden will serve a dual purpose: it will provide fresh vegetables for community members and serve as a hands-on learning space for students from nearby schools, including W.A. Perry Middle School and C.A. Johnson High School.…

Starbucks is getting ready to kick off the holiday season with the return of its beloved red holiday cups on November 7. As part of its annual celebration, the coffee chain will unveil its 2024 holiday menu, bringing back the much-anticipated festive drinkware and an array of seasonal beverages. This year’s holiday theme, “Merrier Together,” reflects warmth and togetherness, featuring colors that blend Starbucks’ signature green and cranberry red with gentle pastel shades reminiscent of holiday treats. The design draws inspiration from vintage ornaments and classic holiday symbols like peppermints. In addition to the familiar red cups, Starbucks is expected…

Mayor Daniel Rickenmann recently shared his vision for Columbia, emphasizing themes of teamwork and unity in the Midlands. Speaking at the launch of the “State of the Midlands” series hosted by the Urban Land Institute South Carolina, he described Columbia as “the land of opportunity” and “the best kept secret in South Carolina.” Rickenmann noted that before his administration, a major issue for the Midlands was the lack of collaboration among local leaders. However, he expressed optimism about improvements made in recent times. He mentioned strengthened relationships with neighboring towns such as West Columbia, Cayce, and Lexington, demonstrating a commitment…

Gov. Henry McMaster announced on September 16, 2024, that Robert M. Kerr, the Director of the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS), will retire on November 1, 2024. Kerr has been in this role for more than three years, having been appointed by McMaster in April 2021 and confirmed unanimously by the South Carolina Senate shortly after. In a statement, Governor McMaster praised Kerr, saying, “Director Robby Kerr is a remarkable leader and devoted public servant. His guidance has been invaluable to governors, lawmakers, and colleagues.” McMaster highlighted Kerr’s significant contributions, particularly his work in transforming and…

With current South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster unable to run for reelection in 2026, an exciting contest is expected to fill his position. The Republican Party is the dominant force in state politics, meaning the crucial decision will occur during the GOP primary in June 2026 when voters choose their candidate for governor. On the other hand, the Democratic Party appears to be losing its impact. The party currently lacks representation in statewide offices and has seen its influence diminish significantly in the South Carolina House and Senate. Both U.S. Senate seats and six out of seven congressional districts are…

A close race in rural South Carolina’s Senate district has become even tighter following a recount. Gerald Malloy, a former state senator from South Carolina and a familiar face in Democratic politics, is weighing the option of formally contesting his recent defeat. Malloy, who marketed himself as a budget-friendly Democrat, lost to Republican candidate JD Chaplin in the hotly contested election for Senate District 29. This district serves all of Marlboro County and parts of Chesterfield, Darlington, Lee, and Sumter counties. Chaplin emerged victorious by a narrow margin, winning by just 278 votes from nearly 50,000 cast, as reported during…

As the Columbia metropolitan area prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2036, it is also commemorating Columbia Business Monthly’s 35 years of service. The city has outlined an ambitious plan called Envision 2036, which aims to redefine the American dream and enhance the community’s growth. Columbia seeks to strengthen its position as a hub for commerce, technology, and education. Key focus areas include attracting and keeping talented individuals, connecting neighborhoods, empowering the local population, encouraging economic prosperity, and improving public spaces. A significant part of this vision includes developing the riverfront, with plans for new parks, roads, and walking…