Protesters hold events to mark legislators’ return

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Occupy Columbia protesters are holding a series of events to mark legislators’ return to the Statehouse.

The group says it is holding a march and rally at the Statehouse on Saturday. There are also a teach-in, poetry reading and various speakers scheduled.

State lawmakers gaveled in this year’s session on Tuesday.

Last month, Occupy Columbia protesters removed their tents and camping gear from the Statehouse after a federal judge approved new rules prohibiting camping on the capitol’s grounds. Protesters also left a tent as a Christmas present for South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, who fought for more than a month to kick them off the Statehouse complex.