Public housing debacle: The aftermath of the Allen-Benedict closure
When emergency officials arrived at a Columbia public housing project on January 17, 2019, they found two men dead of carbon monoxide poisoning. The deaths of Calvin Witherspoon Jr., 62, and Derrick Caldwell Roper, 31, in separate units of the post-World War II-era complex prompted emergency evacuation of the 26-building complex and spawned lawsuits and investigations that are ongoing. The city was also forced to find emergency housing for displaced families even as they faced questions about ongoing problems at the aging complex.
Reporters Mary Ramsey and Shayla Nidiver explore the impact of the crisis on families and a city that is still grappling with finding homes for the community’s most vulnerable citizens.
Study shows improvement in college students’ anxiety, mental health
University students have struggled with their mental health, but studies show improvements since 2022.
State agriculture agency inspecting restaurants differently 18 months in
The breakup of the state’s environmental and health agency has led to new regulatory enforcement tactics. Are they working?
Food dyes create behavioral effects In children as families await more dye removals
Grocery shopping for families with kids often means navigating snack aisles and saying “no” to too many sweets. But for families like Katie’s, whose children stay completely dye-free, even ordinary grocery trips require something extra: checking every label first....
Williams-Brice Stadium renovation underway as Gamecocks enter uncertain offseason
South Carolina’s football season ended with a 4–8 record and a 28–14 loss to Clemson, leaving head coach Shane Beamer and fans frustrated and looking ahead to major changes. “I’m sick as heck about this feeling right now,” Beamer said after the loss. “I’m going to...
Columbia’s train traffic congestion to see relief
Columbia’s downtown railroad convergence will soon be realigned.
Local catering staple Seawell’s could see business changes
Seawell’s Catering could move, making way for a new development at the site.
USC student advocates for more American Sign Language classes
The ASL program has taken off in the past four years, creating demand for an expanded program.
Soda City Team launches new vintage market in Bullstreet District
Everything old is new again.
Constant fire alarms at new Columbia apartment building raise safety concerns for residents
The shriek of the fire alarm and the sight of a fire truck pulling outside have become so common at the new off-campus apartment complex Gateway 737 that residents say they’ve stopped paying attention. Management says they will fix the problem, but the alarm continues...
Carolina strays at risk during winter months
Animal shelters are preparing for the cold months and informing the community on how they can help.
