The eleventh annual “Operation Spread the Joy” (OSJ) campaign is once again collecting items to distribute Christmas Eve morning to Columbia’s homeless. OSJ volunteers are available now through Monday, December 20, at two convenient drop-off locations throughout the Midlands to accept contributions: Debi & Co. Salon, 2401-B Dutch Fork RoadContinue Reading

By W. Thomas Smith Jr. South Carolina Senator Thomas C. Alexander (R–District 1–Oconee and Pickens Counties) was sworn-in as president of the S.C. Senate, Dec. 6, following a Senate-members election in which he received enthusiastic support from both sides of the aisle. “Not surprising,” say colleagues and friends who haveContinue Reading

Many family gatherings and shopping trips are back on this year, which means criminals are back in action to steal gifts and money. “This time of year always brings concerns for safety and security,” Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon said. “Distractions lingering from the pandemic and the holiday season couldContinue Reading

Family Connection of South Carolina has named Alfonso Franco to their board of directors. Family Connection provides resources and services to families who have a child with a disability or chronic health condition. Franco is currently the Community Impact Director for the American Heart Association. He completed his undergraduate degreeContinue Reading

The FBI Columbia Field Office is warning the public of common holiday scams ahead of the 2021 holiday season. With seasonal shopping in full gear, criminals are set to look for opportunities to take advantage of consumers. The FBI is encouraging shoppers to be vigilant for scams that are designedContinue Reading

By W. Thomas Smith Jr. Dr. Tom Mullikin, chairman of the S.C. Floodwater Commission, was formally “hooded,” officially receiving his Ph.D. during commencement ceremonies at Columbia International University (CIU), Friday, Dec. 10. His doctorate in “Transformational Leadership as a Catalyst to Alter Cultural Attitudes About Climate Change in the EvangelicalContinue Reading

A Pleasant Hill Middle School student is charged with making direct threats against students at his school. The student, whose name will not be released because he is underage 18, made a statement during a class Tuesday about killing two students and “shooting up the school,” according to an incidentContinue Reading

Guests are invited to meet Santa and get 50 percent off General Admission this Saturday, December 11 from 11 am – 3 pm. Guests and museum members are invited to bring their wish lists and their cameras to meet Santa at the museum and take a photo. Plus, enjoy theContinue Reading