By Kristyn WinchA quirky little building sits on Sumter Street across from the state house. With its teal blue doors and brick facade, what's inside is a mystery at a passing glance. But as you walk up
Town Theatre is a historic landmark at the heart of Columbia. From young people just getting their starts to Broadway veterans who have had long-lasting careers, Town Theatre was where the magic began.
College-aged relationships are plagued by many challenges, but abuse is often times overlooked under the mask of love. Although physical and sexual abuse are the most reported, emotional abuse is also a big problem.
College-aged relationships are plagued by many challenges, but abuse is often times overlooked under the mask of love. Although physical and sexual abuse are the most reported, emotional abuse is also a big problem. Several local organizations are working to change children's mindset from the start and break the abusive cycle.
Since January 1, a crime trend has hit several Midlands churches and is heating up things in more ways than one.Theives have been tearing apart air conditioners targeting the copper tubing
Copper thieves have vandalized air conditioning units at several Midlands area churches. The total damages have cost churches over $100,000 to repair.
Ebenezer Lutheran Church served their last meal to the homeless last night. The Salvation Army ended their contract with the Church that allowed them to feed Columbia's homeless a meal every week night.
Columbia's homeless now have one less place to go for evening meals. The Ebenezer Lutheran Church has stopped serving meals to the homeless that they used to provide every week night. The homeless aren't completely out of options for food though.
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Columbia's homeless are short on places to eat after the winter shelter and a local church shut down their dinner services. They seek solutions, but the city council will not discuss the issue until their meeting on April 9.
By: Hank Ogburn Bruce Ellington is one of the most versatile athletes at USC; and now that the basketball season is over, he's getting ready for football. As a starter for both teams, Ellington looks
Bruce Ellington is one of USC's most gifted athletes. With basketball season over, Ellington prepares for the upcoming football season. See how the two-star switches from the court to the gridiron. Includes Video
By: Amit Kumar
A week-long competition between USC's Greek organizations kicked off Monday afternoon. Highly anticipated events for the week include Greek Sing and the Greek Olympics.
By: Debby Zamora Imagine you're a student looking for an apartment. You slip on a pair of glasses to identify students who are looking for a roommate. This idea may seem far-fetched but Google is
USC Professor Srihari Nelakuditi is developing an app for Google Glass. The professor received a grant from Google and is working on an app that could let users identify and communicate virtually with others.
By: Liz McIntyre Monday kicked off the Pedestrian Safety Project on Assembly Street. Construction workers met to discuss plans, paint lines on the road, make measurements, and even begin cutting
Construction began Monday morning on the Pedestrian Safety Project on Assembly Street. Workers took down parking meters and made measurements to kick off the project.
By: Tom LanahanThe Lexington High School baseball team will be looking to capture its tenth championship in school history this year. Leading the title hunt will be catcher Nick Chiuffo and pitchers Cole
Three Lexington High School baseball players will be coming to USC this fall, but first they are trying to capture a state title before they set their sights on one at USC. Includes Video
Zac Baker ended his speech on the steps of the South Carolina State House Tuesday evening with three simple words:"We are equal," Baker said. He was speaking in front of a crowd of marriage equality supporters
Marriage equality supporters rally in front of South Carolina's State House Tuesday.A rally was held as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to hear two cases involving gay marriage.
The city of Columbia is now planning to purchase the Palmetto Compress Warehouse and the surrounding 4.7 acres for $5.65 million, after a 5-2 vote from the Columbia City Council on Tuesday night. The
The city of Columbia plans to purchase the Palmetto Compress building by borrowing up to $7 million. How the former cotton warehouse will be used is still in discussion, but the issue has pitted those with business interests against others advocating for preservation.
By: Ethan TillmanAll eyes were on Williams Brice Stadium Wednesday for the South Carolina Gamecocks' Pro Timing day. Fans and NLF Scouts alike covered the field hoping to catch the 18 Gamecock players
NFL Pro Day for the Gamecock football team was Wednesday. Fans and professional scouts gathered to watch still-rehabbing Marcus Lattimore and 18 other former players work out and run through drills.
By: Liz McIntyreShafen Khan saw a lot of potential in Columbia. "I called my father and I told him…you know, we have a market here. Let's do something," Khan said. And that's exactly what he did. He started
Columbia ranks fifth among the top thirty cities for young entrepreneurs, according to nationally-recognized entrepreneurship publication Under30CEO. Young Colubmia business owner Shafen Khan agrees.
Cottle Strawberry Farm hopes to be open for picking by this weekend but it all depends on the weather. High winds and cold have already delayed the picking season by over a month.
Cottle Strawberry Farm should be well into picking season by now, but cold weather and wind have delayed things by more than a month. Staff are taking desperate measures like staying up all night to protect the crops.
Columbia has replaced its old shuttle car with a new Nissan Leaf that will make the free shuttle service more efficient.
The City of Columbia has replaced the old Jeep Wrangler shuttle with a new, all-electric car. The Nissan Leaf is more a more fuel efficient option that will save the city almost $800 per month.
By Haley Willard Behind white, wooden doors, worn from years of use, blue metal chairs and barber seats from the '40s sit on a black-and-white tile floor. Next to the doors, bags of candy and potato chips
At Hill's Barber Shop, where current owner Moses Felder has been serving the community for 45 years, you'll find friends, family and a history of haircuts and camaraderie.
By Daniel BoanIt's been four weeks since the announcement of the federal sequester and the effects are already taking its toll on certain sectors of the Columbia economy. USC's Office of Research is
The University of South Carolina's Office of Research is already preparing for expected funding cuts as a result of the federal sequester. The estimated $12 million cut will most likely hit health and science research funding the hardest.
By Tara BairdWhen Police Chief Randy Scott resigned from the Columbia Police Department Monday – the first member of the force to publically cite traumatic stress as a reason to leave – he made a very
When Columbia Police Chief Randy Scott resigned Monday, he cited PTSD as the cause. Scott is not the only police officer to suffer from the disorder; one study says 15 to 18 percent of police officers in the United States may have PTSD. Photo courtesy of WISTV.
By Zach FoxThe roadside efforts to revamp sex education in South Carolina now have company in the State House.Tell Them, a grassroots advocacy group seeking to improve reproductive health education in the
Billboards put up by Tell Them, a reproductive health advocacy group, can be seen throughout the state, including on Two Notch Road in Columbia, amid criticisms of South Carolina's sex education laws. Legislation has been introduced to amend the state's Comprehensive Health Education Act.
By: Genelle Williams When most Americans wake up in the morning, they don't have to think twice about how they'll get to work. They'll get into their cars, crank the ignition and sing their favorite tunes
Bus system routes and service cuts have Richland County bus riders wondering when things will get better. The county's Penny Sales Tax Referendum will provide money for transportation changes and improvements.
By Erin Shaw A national tragedy in Boston is causing security officials in Columbia to rethink safety measures. After two bombs exploded at the finish line of the Boston Marathon Monday, where more than
Three dead. More than 170 injured. The two explosions that created pain, fear and chaos at the finish line of the Boston Marathon have heightened security concerns across the country, and Columbia is no exception. (Photo by Kristen Keesee/Boston University News Service)
By Erin ShawThe University of South Carolina could be getting its first gender-neutral bathrooms if a student-led proposal is approved. Restroom use has been the focus of a number of recent controversies
As more colleges and universities across the country are creating gender-neutral or unisex bathrooms to accommodate transgender students, faculty and staff, one University of South Carolina student is proposing similar changes for Columbia's campus.
By: Jenni KnightA new store is shaking up the grocery scene in Columbia. Trader Joe's, a grocery chain with an almost cult-like following, opened up Friday on Forest Drive. Shoppers arrived as early as
The long-anticipated Trader Joe's finally opened its doors Friday morning to a crowd of excited customers, ready to shop and save on discounted organic products.
By Tara BairdPhotos by Nick NalboneNatural disasters are devastating. Tragedies caused by man are a different kind of pain. "There is a fundamental difference between natural events and terrorist events,"
When tragedies strike, people mourn, get angry, try to help. Exactly how they react can vary, depending on the circumstances of the event, according to crisis and behavior experts. "There is a fundamental difference between natural events and terrorist events," according to one USC professor. Photo courtesy of USC student Nick Nalbone, one of the race organizers.
As many Americans scrambled to file their taxes before the federal deadline Monday, organizations in South Carolina won't be waiting until the last minute to educate the state's youth about economic and
As many Americans scrambled to file their taxes before the federal deadline Monday, organizations in South Carolina won't be waiting until the last minute to educate the state's youth about economic and financial principles.
The University of South Carolina Women's basketball team lost in the round of 32 in the NCAA tournament last night. The women fell to the Kansas Jayhawks 75-68.
The USC Women's basketball season came to a sudden end Monday night. The Gamecocks lost to the Kansas Jayhawks 75-69 in the second round of the NCAA tournament, one game short of where they finished last year.
Story and photos by Tara Baird"Everybody wants a Lilly. Who wouldn't want a Lilly?" said Beth Baxley, owner of Pink Sorbet on Devine Street in Columbia. It's the only store in the Columbia area that sells
Lilly Pulitzer has been a staple in Southern closets since the 1960s. She began designing dresses for her own personal wardrobe, according to the company. As one USC student says, "Lilly Pulitzer made preppy fun!"
Secular groups from around the state plan to march as a unified block for the first time in this year's Pride Parade on Oct. 20 in downtown Columbia to show support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights. "I
Secular groups from around the state plan to march as a unified block for the first time in this year's Pride Parade on Oct. 20 in downtown Columbia to show support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights.
By Erin Shaw Susan Singleton admits to tearing up whenever she goes to the grocery store. Instead of lean proteins like fish or chicken, she goes for the meat that's about to expire because it's what
South Carolina needs to watch its weight. As the eighth most obese state in the nation, state politicians and public health officials are proposing a waiver that would restrict purchases made with food assistance programs to healthy items only. Neither the program or the issue of change is simple.
Story and photos by Tara BairdThe Pell Grant program, which gives South Carolina college students about $600 million in grants each year, faces changes intended to make the program more financially efficient
The Pell Grant program, which gives South Carolina college students about $600 million in grants each year, faces changes intended to make the program more financially efficient if suggestions by a College Board study are made.
By Rachel Dean When Suzy Shealy lost her son, a soldier stationed in Iraq, she turned her personal tragedy into a way to help other military and their families. After Joseph died in Baghdad, Shealy learned
When Suzy Shealy's son died in Iraq, she turned her tragedy into a way to help others. This painting is part of the Iraq series dedicated to her son, Sgt. Joseph Derrick.
By Haley WillardColbert. Pronounced "bert" or "bear?" Elizabeth Colbert Busch is the sister of comedian Stephen Colbert and is also running against former Gov. Mark Sanford for South Carolina's 1st Congressional
Elizabeth Colbert, sister of comedian Stephen Colbert and candidate for South Carolina's 1st Congressional District, often confronts confusion about the pronunciation of her last name. Some pronounce it "cole-bear" while others pronounce it "cole-bert." Come hear a few attempts.
Story and photos by Zach FoxAt Hardy Berry Farm in Anderson County, berry pickers are told not to come to work if they're sick—not just out of kindness—but also to keep the farm's berries safe from contamination.For
According to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study, produce was the leading cause of foodborne illnesses in the United States from 1998 to 2008. Produce farmers in South Carolina take precautions to ensure their produce is free from contamination.
By Kristyn Winch
The horse races in Camden, S.C., happen miles away from the Capital City, but the annual event keeps Columbia's economy running with increased spending on fashion, fuel, hotels and booze.
By Kristyn WinchQuantifiable data shows that reducing stress and brain fatigue is as simple as taking a walk in the park. According to a study by researchers at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh and
A study links meditative brain waves with taking a stroll in the park. While scientists have touted the positive effects of nature for years, now there is quantifiable data. How good is South Carolina's nature scene for your brain?
The University of South Carolina's business released a study Tuesday detailing Hartsville, S.C.-based Sonoco's economic impact in the state.
A study released Tuesday details Hartsville, S.C.-based Sonoco's economic impact in the state. Sonoco's revenue accounts for around $1 billion of all South Carolina's goods and services.
By Kristyn Winch It's not all about food. It's about family. Sundown Monday marked the beginning of Passover, one of the most widely celebrated holidays for the American Jewish community. While the Jewish
While the Jewish population in South Carolina is far smaller than that of other religious groups, members of local synagogues and campus groups are getting ready to celebrate Passover in the Midlands.
By Haley WillardBoy meets girl. They accept each other's friend requests on Facebook, chat via Facebook messenger. Boy and girl flirt and get to know her each other via texting. Boy sends girl a text to
In today's fast-paced, technology-based world, relationships develop quickly. The love stories of two couples from different generations tell how communication in relationships has changed.
By Cassie Cope The first haircut the owner of Hair Doodles received from her inexperienced uncle when she was 3 made her look like a little boy. "I remember my bangs being in the middle of my forehead,"
A haircut can be a traumatic experience for a child or a fun memory of pampering. Hair Doodles, a salon in Forest Acres, has a history of providing children with hairstyles and memories.
By Chloe GouldShe walked into the elementary school lobby in high-top black, sparkling boots with hot pink laces. Her eyes shined through the lenses of her round glasses, and her smile stretched across
Thursday was World Down Syndrome Day, picked for March 21 because Down syndrome children are born with three copies of chromosome 21. It's a day to raise awareness and understanding of the genetic condition. Thanks to the help of the South Carolina Arts Commission, Alternacirque has grown from a small circus company that started in a parking lot to a thriving business.
South Carolina public schools are no longer required to offer drivers education courses. This trend has resulted in the rise of third party schools, driving up costs for students and parents.
South Carolina public schools are no longer required to offer drivers education courses. This trend has resulted in the rise of third party schools, driving up costs for students and parents.
By Chloe GouldGolden red and yellow apples sat in green baskets along the produce line just beyond bushels of bright green onions and an iced-filled cooler of broccoli. Mandy Churchwell, a farmer at The Veggie
Fresh goat cheese, apples picked straight from the tree and homemade blueberry scones are all mainstays at the Healthy Carolina Farmers Market on Greene Street. Stop by every Tuesday through April from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to snag a tasty treat.
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A joint venture between USC retail students and Collegiate Tartan Apparel will lead to a signature plaid garnet-and-black pattern for Gamecock merchandise. Voting is under way for all for everyone associated with USC to choose their favorite.
![Professor Robert Ployhart believes March Madness office pools lend themselves to productivity during the tournament.]( "Professor Robert Ployhart believes March Madness office pools lend themselves to productivity during the tournament.")
Professor Robert Ployhart believes March Madness office pools lend themselves to productivity during the tournament.By Chloe GouldPeople wear their jerseys under their suits and ties, so to speak, passionately throwing themselves into office pool. They pick their favorite teams or employ a little strategy in their
Once the first game officially tips off Thursday, it's estimated that 50 million Americans will have a bracket filled out, and 86 percent of employees will spend at least part of the day checking scores and watching games, according to studies compiled by The Week. ![Former S.C. Gov. Mark Sanford is running in a special primary election to serve as the Republican candidate for the 1st Congressional District seat.]( "Former S.C. Gov. Mark Sanford is running in a special primary election to serve as the Republican candidate for the 1st Congressional District seat.")
Former S.C. Gov. Mark Sanford is running in a special primary election to serve as the Republican candidate for the 1st Congressional District seat.By Chloe GouldThe power of Christian forgiveness — it's a redeeming force in South Carolina politics. Former Gov. Mark Sanford, who was caught on an Argentinean tryst in June 2009, is the presumed front-runner
The power of Christian forgiveness offers a rebirth in South Carolina politics. Gov. Mark Sanford is running for the 1st Congressional District seat and stands to once again represent the state in government. Photo courtesy of Wade Spees / The Post and Courier
By Erin Shaw It's not every day a 10,000-pound animal walks down your street. Despite morning showers and delays, crowds assembled Tuesday to watch circus elephants and horses march through USC's Greek
Before the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey circus kicks off this weekend, animal trainers marched five elephants and half a dozen horses from the train tracks by USC's Greek Village to the Colonial Life Arena on Tuesday morning. Coming from Georgia and leaving for Cincinnati, Columbia will be the show's only stop in state.
News of a Mississippi newborn supposedly cured of an HIV infection has HIV advocates and researchers in South Carolina hopeful as well as skeptical. The potential for the cure to change the standard
The South has half of all new cases in the United States, although it has only a little more than a third of the country's population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A potential cure found in Mississippi could mean hope.
Story and Photos by Zach FoxThe much-debated issue of Medicaid expansion in South Carolina took a detour from the State House floor to the lieutenant governor's office Thursday. On the latest edition
Republican Rep. Murrell Smith, left, and Democratic Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter appeared Thursday on Lt. Gov. Glenn McConnell's show, This Week in the State House, to debate the issue of expanding Medicaid. The weekly program, a production of S.C. ETV, is broadcast from McConnell's office. Story and photos by Zach Fox The sequester controversy could land close to home for some airport travelers in South Carolina if a federal budget deal is not reached by Friday. The Federal Aviation Administration
The Federal Aviation Administration said 100 small airports may be forced to close their air traffic control towers if a deal isn't reached by March 1. Affected airports could include Donaldson Field in Greenville, Hilton Head Island Airport, Florence Regional Airport and the Grand Strand Airport in North Myrtle Beach.
Photos and story by Kristyn Winch If you like what you see in the aisles of Whole Foods and in the stands at the farmers market, now you can get up close and personal with that head of lettuce's first
If you like what you see in the aisles of Whole Foods Market and in the stands at the State Farmers Market, you can now get up close and personal with the first home of those carrots or that head of lettuce: the farm.
Story and photos by Colin CampbellIt's a relaxed Tuesday evening at the Tin Roof bar in Columbia; a pair of men play Cornhole while dozens of suits from the Statehouse are letting loose, downing $2 draught
At the Tin Roof bar in Columbia, a pair of men play Cornhole while dozens of suits from the State House are letting loose, downing $2 draught beers. At a table near the bar, bright lights and microphones highlight the last of a series of intense, but friendly, debates between two high-profile South Carolina political strategists.
They're on the bills in our wallets, and they pass and veto bills on Capitol Hill. But how well do we really know the people who have led our country for more than two centuries?
Banks and many schools are closed, and no mail is delivered on Presidents Day, but the University of South Carolina still holds classes. Some students see a problem with that, saying the day should be a holiday to honor former leaders. But how much do students know about our nation's presidents?
Morgan Taylor and Patrick Galante of Columbia have been dating ever since they met in high school more than 10 years ago. And now that they're engaged, Taylor's brother and his classmates will plan their
Morgan Taylor and Patrick Galante of Columbia have been dating since they met in high school more than 10 years ago. And now that they're engaged, 66 University of South Carolina students will plan their wedding. Thanks to winning a contest, the couple will have every detail of their big day planned by students from a Wedding Planning and Management course.
By Haley WillardPhotos by Kristyn Winch The shelves are lined with Slim Jims, powdered donuts and 2-liter bottles of Coke and Mountain Dew. Down the next aisle, there are cans of green beans and soup,
Employees at The Village Store, an independent convenience store in Lexington, S.C., share their thoughts on DHEC director Catherine Templeton's suggestion that stricter regulations be placed on how South Carolinians can redeem their food stamps. The store began accepting food stamps about a year ago.
By Chloe Gould The flat-rate shipping boxes are next to wide jars of pickled pigs feet, just down the counter from the cash register. South Carolina's first village office opened in Chappells at Horne's
Horne's General Store could be the poster child for the U.S. postal service's effort to position itself inside the smallest businesses of one-stoplight towns. Or, in the case of Chappells, a village of about 500 people where Horne's just started selling beer on Sunday, one stop-sign towns.
He's holding on to the black and gold. Taylor Chambers, a 17-year-old senior at Irmo High School, signed and faxed his official commitment papers to Wake Forest University Wednesday morning, National Signing
Taylor Chambers grew from a handful of Cheerios to a 6-foot-8-inches offensive lineman. Friends, family and teachers describe him as caring and bright with an affinity for felines.
Story and photos by Chloe Gould Hungry customers huddle around short stacks of golden pancakes as busy waiters loop through narrow aisles sporting "Miracle Makers" jerseys. Four-person families and little children
Columbia IHOP customers, including 2-year-old Victor Sanchez donated money to Children's Miracle Network, a hospital that treats children. Breakfast lovers received a free short stack Tuesday as part of National Pancake Day.
At Williams-Brice Stadium, home of Gamecock football, there are 44 maintenance and facilities workers that keep the power on.
At Williams-Brice Stadium, home of Gamecock football, there are 44 maintenance and facilities workers that keep the power on. University-employed electricians work with the athletics department's maintenance staff and the scoreboard team from January until the last game of the season in November.
