Local News

Tax Free weekend starts Friday

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– if you need to do any back to school shopping, this may be the weekend to buy those supplies. The state’s annual Tax Free holiday runs  August 7-9, 2020. During this weekend, certain items will be exempt from the state’s six percent sales tax. You can purchase everything from pencils and pens to backpacks some clothing, even…

One city measures coronavirus spike by focusing on sewer system

Clemson uses city wastewater to monitor spike in COVID-19 cases

Officials in one South Carolina city say proof that the recent spike in cases has ended can be found in the city’s sewer. Clemson has been measuring the city’s wastewater each week since May. Officials say they saw a spike in the wastewater in June that matched the states spike in cases, but cases leveled out in late July. Lately,…

Columbia Parks and Recreation offer free meals

Breakfast and lunch will be provided for residents 18 and younger

Image: Columbia Parks and Recreation Logo Columbia, SC (WOLO)— The City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department is teaming up with a local faith based organization in order to help feed a community need. As families get ready to begin a new school year, the City of Columbia is giving you one less thing to worry about. Columbia Parks and…

First SC trial resumes after COVID-19 shutdown with masks, shields and spread out jurors

LAURENS, SC (AP) – The first trial in a South Carolina courtroom since the COVID-19 pandemic began includes spread out jurors, a glass shield around the witness stand and bailiffs reminding everyone that masks are required. The murder trial started Tuesday in Laurens County and was the first case tried in front of a jury since courts closed in mid-March…

Harvest Hope holds ‘Fill the Gap’ campaign to restock high demand items

Harvest Hope Food Bank announced a new food initiative this month called 'Fill the Gap.'

Columbia, S.C. (WOLO) — Harvest Hope Food Bank announced a new food initiative this month called ‘Fill the Gap.’ Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Harvest Hope has seen record numbers of people needing help the past few months. “People need food 24/7. So our mission was critical before COVID, and now just like any other crisis, it’s very critical,” said…