https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-columbia-gameday-traffic-safety-zero-fatalities-record-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1545459720-aac8509eb02c?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 City of Columbia Reports Record-Safe Gameday Corridor with Zero Major Traffic Collisions Coordinated drone monitoring, smart signal timing, and law enforcement shuttles move over 100,000 visitors smoothly from stadium gates. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-columbia-police-seize-illegal-weapons-cache-north-main-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589994965851-a8f479c573a9?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia Police Seize Substantial Illicit Weapons Cache in Coordinated North Main Sweep Richland County deputies and CPD task force officers confiscated dozens of modified firearms and narcotics during a targeted operation Tuesday. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-gervais-street-bridge-evening-pedestrian-safety-enhancement-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1513694203232-719a280e022f?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 City of Columbia Initiates Rapid Safety Lighting Upgrades Along Gervais River Crossing Department of Public Works crews commenced overnight installation of high-output luminaire fixtures connecting downtown to West Columbia. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-midlands-911-dispatch-fiber-restored-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1516321318423-f06f85e504b3?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Midlands Regional 911 Emergency Communications Fiber Link Fully Restored Technicians re-spliced a severed commercial fiber trunk line, restoring redundant routing for public safety dispatch centers across three counties. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/autumn-cold-front-midlands-temperatures-low-50s-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1507525428034-b723cf961d3e?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Autumn Cold Front to Drop Midlands Overnight Temperatures into the Low 50s This Weekend After months of summer humidity, a dry Canadian air mass brings the crispest, most comfortable weather of the season across central South Carolina. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/IMztPqoiUkAoEqem2JG3 https://s.yimg.com/lo/mysterio/api/f90602233ad25169a2cd4d4b10c73177dee4903a8a1988340209258c17a5777a/lightyear_networkapi/resizefill_w1200%3Bquality_80%3Bformat_webp/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.zenfs.com%2Fen%2Fthe_big_lead_articles_114%2F3697ea30a7b9360414f383c0483fe2c1.jpg Trinidad Chambliss seals Ole Miss legacy game with NSFW celebration The Ole Miss QB may have etched himself as one of the great athletes in school history. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/P2RwAjXue5t7SOBASyxZ https://s.yimg.com/lo/mysterio/api/6397ec27684fa082df8b1a18b3e457c02a209dc289eb2aeb1ea10c16a680068e/lightyear_networkapi/resizefill_w1200%3Bquality_80%3Bformat_webp/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.zenfs.com%2Fen%2Fthe_sporting_news_articles_584%2F4e95f9e22eed1571339cd42df314070b 'Hotty F— Toddy': Ole Miss QB Trinidad Chambliss screams F-bomb on national TV after win over LSU He didn't hold anything in his postgame interview. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/IDRFGzkDQ4FplF1NrvUL https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/explosion-.gif US military strikes alleged narco-trafficking vessel in Caribbean, killing 4 'narco-terrorists' Video shows a Caribbean vessel erupting into a fireball as SOUTHCOM says it killed four alleged narco-terrorists in a drug trafficking strike. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/NCiHfsPgVapHFAyxyisQ https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/931/523/ed-on-stage.png?ve=1&tl=1 READ IT: Ed Sheeran's pre-concert speech to Philly crowd about the Gaza controversy Ed Sheeran called the Gaza devastation "catastrophic and unjustifiable" in a rare political speech before his Philadelphia concert Saturday night. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/EFk0l514rn9GIrtnhfRA https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/846c/live/65039890-b494-11f1-8153-85d44903e598.jpg Ed Sheeran admits 'mistakes' as he addresses Macklemore controversy at Philadelphia show The mega-star spoke about Israel and Gaza at his first concert since rapper Macklemore was removed from his tour. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/RflVKqnIX1FSVjA3kkqT https://gray-wistv-prod.gtv-cdn.com/resizer/v2//LIBW7HSBFFFBRKQUQC6ONBNUZQ.png?auth=5f5fc768b55b60e0f83ef7c5f0eb48cdd5e1d2b99bacd2fb680c18493de30b89&smart=false FIRST ALERT: Hot Sunday on tap with above-average warmth Above normal high temperatures are ahead yet again Sunday afternoon. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/DgJ2E5YjBey4rvhYhvQr https://gray-wistv-prod.gtv-cdn.com/resizer/v2//RHGZMSHRSVEDDCWP7U7VCCPKPM.jpg?auth=ee8d62327856fa16461ce7c143a6fe0ef0e50db6d906ea845394169359d12b09&smart=false Clemson rallies to beat North Carolina 28-20 after game turns following 2 1/2-hour weather delay Clemson rallied from a 14-point first-half deficit to beat North Carolina 28-20 on Saturday at Memorial Stadium in a game that lasted nearly six hours. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/DtUjSLQ3AbKQ8uqTgczV https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/f1ad/live/fd353880-b421-11f1-8a8e-d9778c1036bb.jpg Nato welcomes Greenland deal as Trump says it will give US 'permanent security control' Denmark and the US have reached an agreement after months of threats from Donald Trump to annex the territory. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/CT56gATqKGH8UtQOI9ih https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/931/523/east-brunswick-police-vehicle.jpg?ve=1&tl=1 New Jersey mom charged with obstruction after 'missing' son found hiding in her crawl space A New Jersey mother reportedly told East Brunswick police her missing teen wasn't home, but officers found the juvenile hiding in a crawl space in her basement. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/PqN696LNfLw6dKtz6dwu https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/931/523/ed-sheeran-and-protester-split.png?ve=1&tl=1 Ed Sheeran apologizes for Macklemore backlash, encourages unity at first concert since fallout Pro-Palestinian protesters waved flags and chanted outside Ed Sheeran's Philadelphia concert, one week after Macklemore was dropped from the tour. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/Zzfmx5bJicQYWruiAPQu https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/093a/live/5485b600-b46d-11f1-9dd6-3102a0e415e4.jpg Trump says US will form 'AI Force' and appoint an artificial intelligence tsar The president said his administration "will not in any way hinder or stifle the growth" amid amid warnings about the emergent technology. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/4zcUoxkjQAwkicII4PVS https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/931/523/f-16-fighting-falcon-singapore-airshow.jpg?ve=1&tl=1 NORAD F-16 intercepts aircraft that violated restricted airspace over Camp David with Trump present: officials A NORAD F-16 reportedly intercepted an aircraft violating restricted airspace over Camp David Saturday while President Donald Trump stayed there. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/XWyKjYemrn8Waq59kb0p https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/931/523/clay-aiken.jpg?ve=1&tl=1 Clay Aiken 'died inside' after Rosie O'Donnell outed him on 'The View' in 2006 Clay Aiken revealed he "died inside" after Rosie O'Donnell outed him on "The View" during a heated 2006 exchange with Kelly Ripa over a viral moment. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/TGw2mEboNt6QNeDMnrjM https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/1b27/live/d8b31f40-b435-11f1-9fa0-111a12dcb7b0.jpg Journalists denied White House access after Trump banned some media outlets CNN, MS NOW and Politico reporters' White House press badges were confiscated, the outlets reported. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/JHvmAlidhJJEfcUWYQt2 https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/931/523/Los-Angeles-homeless-crisis.jpg?ve=1&tl=1 LA homelessness fraud cases expose deeper problem than stolen millions, oversight hawk warns Rep. Michael Cloud says Los Angeles homelessness fraud cases expose a funding system that rewards program managers while keeping people in dependency. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/U0iSCidQfjWez0to1YyJ https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/3c72/live/446b36e0-b44b-11f1-a430-4d16ee157c41.jpg Analysis: Trump escalates media fight after week of setbacks An embattled Trump has injected his fight with the news media with new acrimony, writes the BBC's Anthony Zurcher. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/K0JCyRAnFORd8CCKzELw https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/931/523/carrot-top-tonight-show-2000.jpg?ve=1&tl=1 Carrot Top hospitalized, forced to cancel weekend performances Carrot Top was hospitalized in Las Vegas, forcing cancellations of his residency shows. His rep says the comedian is recovering and asksed for privacy. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/7k5ayZJ29z5WpyVbEBSN https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/931/523/john-ritter-amy-yasbeck.jpg?ve=1&tl=1 John Ritter's widow, Amy Yasbeck, details the fatal misdiagnosis she says led to his death Amy Yasbeck revealed John Ritter was misdiagnosed with a heart attack the night he died, when a CT scan could have detected his aortic dissection. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/J4AnMTrR5AVvVPg0d3nb https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/931/523/eugene-horsch-excavation-olney-philadelphia_001-scaled.jpg?ve=1&tl=1 Philly serial killer probe could expose larger network behind apparent 'snuff' films, expert says Forensic psychologist Dr. Kris Mohandie warns the Philadelphia missing women investigation could involve 'snuff' films distributed to underground networks. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/UCEuvEGXziIyRaNeGskD https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2025/10/931/523/new-arch-for-trump.png?ve=1&tl=1 Lawyer says 250-foot Trump arch disrupts historic sightlines cherished by veterans seeking burial at Arlington Three Vietnam veterans are suing to block Trump's Great Triumphal Arch, saying it would destroy iconic views near Arlington National Cemetery. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/Wgo0ErlBn7YD3QZyRsCR https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/931/523/Michael-Clancy-1.jpg?ve=1&tl=1 Clancy holdout juror taps former Trump lawyer to fight back as he’s ‘dragged through the mud’: attorney Michael P. Desronvil, the lone holdout juror in the Lindsay Clancy mistrial, has retained Edward Paltzik, a lawyer known for representing Trump. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/EC5Jci8pIAN9E2IVRLZM https://gray-wistv-prod.gtv-cdn.com/resizer/v2//7KJHDHAIWNB6HLGZASSPVRRQAY.png?auth=9afe37abb8cf85e5715d9c314f7ee41a6add56a80a386b1a878187b12a46c54e&smart=false ‘It’s unimaginable’: Family speaks out after double homicide arrest in Sumter County Cousin describes unimaginable loss after Sumter County double homicide https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/2eV5zXhQJS3xvyrO3Atv https://gray-wistv-prod.gtv-cdn.com/resizer/v2//TPP2FJYMMJGD7BFJQFZ34OK64U.png?auth=3db5de3090c88f2230d8015c96727b73d0e83087776b5f2eaf13f1c2e5a97b2e&smart=false Google internet safety roadshow teaches Midlands students digital citizenship Students across the Midlands are getting a hands-on lesson in digital safety as Google’s Internet Safety Roadshow makes a stop in the area over the next few days. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/99oWpiyNbpKSpAWmpyWa https://media.zenfs.com/en/exec_edge_220/0688219ce0e78d50bc8d89f0ad59b688.jpg Sir Lynton Crosby, CT Group Executive Chairman, on the Case for Capitalism Sir Lynton Crosby, CT Group Executive Chairman, on the Case for Capitalism https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/QFWZFBmFNeHxt8ON8Oe7 https://media.zenfs.com/en/indexuniverse.com/685c6a7e1fcae476c06ee752a956ffca.png ETF League Tables: Schwab Registers Hefty Inflows ETF League Tables: Schwab Registers Hefty Inflows https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/TtJOlMNd41zNRfTbu2qH https://media.zenfs.com/en/smartasset_475/83b9b8f85702d5e191c5dad916636fe6 Social Security Check at 62 vs. 70: How Much Can You Get? Social Security Check at 62 vs. 70: How Much Can You Get? https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/PmIUtSjwbSLmWegzx9dE https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2025/08/931/523/mosquito-bite-arm.jpg?ve=1&tl=1 Third person dies after mosquito is reportedly trapped on plane to Germany in 'airport malaria' phenomenon Three people have died from so-called "airport malaria" after an infected mosquito was reportedly transported aboard a flight to Frankfurt Airport in Germany. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/adjhQjo3yIirjLGCko1y https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/931/523/hormuz-irgc-navy-iran.jpg?ve=1&tl=1 China firm gave Iran lifeline to collect Hormuz tolls before pulling plug amid US warning After briefly issuing a web security certificate for a portal linked to Iran's U.S.-sanctioned Persian Gulf Strait Authority, a Shanghai-based firm revoked it, though the move could still draw scrutiny under U.S. sanctions rules https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/archaeologists-mediterranean-2500-year-old-shipwreck-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544551763-46a013bb70d5?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Archaeologists in Mediterranean Uncover 2,500-Year-Old Intact Shipwreck Cargo Deep-sea underwater robotic submersibles discover pristine Greek amphorae, bronze artifacts, and ancient navigational instruments. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/FRnX4pUA46hXLRjizqna https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/02/931/523/voting-russian-occupied-ukraine.jpg?ve=1&tl=1 ‘Voters get to choose — just not the result’: Russia’s parliamentary election reaches occupied Ukraine Russian State Duma elections will be held in occupied Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia amid accusations of armed voter intimidation. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/WlZKYkutq3l9eKEnf6KU https://gray-wistv-prod.gtv-cdn.com/resizer/v2//LFA7ZFLLVNHZVB25CYTGCJRTUQ.png?auth=c9d91875589ee835a5409e2023761b69d434f8ee574c4be2c3f15b725680c6c9&smart=false FIRST ALERT: Rain and thunder chances going up, along with the humidity Starting Friday, humidity and rain chances make a comeback. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/0JGQgIztefqGbLDGhKVo https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2026/09/931/523/archbishop-sarah-mullally-lambeth-palace-interfaith-award.jpg?ve=1&tl=1 Archbishop of Canterbury withdraws award from Muslim cleric after past Osama bin Laden praise surfaces Maulana Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi received the Hubert Walter Award at Lambeth Palace days before past praise of Osama bin Laden surfaced. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/TbA20THzdVEeJx6DoDNM https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/230417170417-fox-news-headquarters-0228-super-169.jpg Dominion still has pending lawsuits against election deniers such as Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell Dominion still has pending lawsuits against election deniers such as Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/Zlq2jsuEZH9bBnN3GFZX https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1504711434969-e33886168f5c?auto=format&fit=crop&q=80&w=1200 Return to Boise State is full circle for Coyote football voice Gary Culver Sep. 17—BOISE, Idaho — Fifty-three years ago, Gary Culver made the trip to Boise, Idaho, as a young defensive back on the University of South Dakota f... https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/ZK0gIkQj6R3GKJSK6t5B https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1504711434969-e33886168f5c?auto=format&fit=crop&q=80&w=1200 Ole Miss football news: Rebels cracking down on LSU fans in student section during Week 3 clash Ole Miss football welcomes legendary Mississippi native Morgan Freeman to the campus for the LSU game . But the school already isn’t planning to be we... https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/56FAFbIzpBKaeoICc1pv https://gray-wistv-prod.gtv-cdn.com/resizer/v2//VZGUBVC5YFDNHJANYMUR2KHXTU.png?auth=c0a64f4ed84812c1159072ffe967bf3f1a1e4411ef03d735362046a5528b66b9&smart=false FIRST ALERT: Rain chances and temperatures increase to end the week and start the weekend Rain chances and temperatures increase to end the week and start the weekend https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/aaRO0YMErjBhwoFRxNsr https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1541535650810-10d26f5c2ab3?w=1200&q=80 Gamecocks Defeat Arch Rivals in Thrilling Overtime Finish Gamecocks Defeat Arch Rivals in Thrilling Overtime Finish https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/6xV1p78DOAY9Mv7S7yhU https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589829085413-56de8ae18c73?w=1200&q=80 High-Profile Murdaugh Financial Trial Begins in Richland County High-Profile Murdaugh Financial Trial Begins in Richland County https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/DQAdKI5qkqMlpVmyuuqA https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1555396273-367ea4eb4db5?w=1200&q=80 Five Points Revitalization Project Adds 3 New Late-Night Eateries Five Points Revitalization Project Adds 3 New Late-Night Eateries https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/RyMN9a0x4tDoQwDx1kJH https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1541535650810-10d26f5c2ab3?w=1200&q=80 Gamecocks Defeat Arch Rivals in Thrilling Overtime Finish Gamecocks Defeat Arch Rivals in Thrilling Overtime Finish https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/KbwnZhs62w3HloN1FjZ7 https://media.zenfs.com/en/thestreet_881/61c44d1052ecdb2ed1b83aaad5c4afdd.jpg Mysterious trader moves $122 million ahead of Fed's 2 p.m. decision Mysterious trader moves $122 million ahead of Fed's 2 p.m. decision https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/ab4eWZjpVt2j0TIBxjo0 https://media.zenfs.com/en/barchart_com_477/53d3ebf69658787d9ab6bb0cf9613801.jpg Is DTE Energy Stock Underperforming the Dow? Is DTE Energy Stock Underperforming the Dow? https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/G8Tho2chsrJIxQUUiiR5 https://media.zenfs.com/en/moneywise_ecomm_711/5b2b3743320b95f4171308c372e91d10.png Seattle single-income mom homeschooling her kids discovers she owns $18M in one stock. What Dave Ramsey says to do next Seattle single-income mom homeschooling her kids discovers she owns $18M in one stock. What Dave Ramsey says to do next https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/Dv5icqyOLNlwYHMD8oaB https://media.zenfs.com/en/barchart_com_477/064bebf79df5475153d146e2cf00b6fa.jpg Soybean Gains Extending to Wednesday Morning Soybean Gains Extending to Wednesday Morning https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/HLmPR4A903b9BbEX7SKH https://s.yimg.com/uu/api/res/1.2/Da8wQNEVwY4.qkziFOgoAg--~B/aD00MDAwO3c9NjAwMDthcHBpZD15dGFjaHlvbg--/https://d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net/images/2026-09/0c5c7230-1d1e-4f39-873b-7e62eaaf879d 6 signs you might be a good fit for debt settlement 6 signs you might be a good fit for debt settlement https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/1CwmoXqf8IKJkaB2EqXv https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1541535650810-10d26f5c2ab3?w=1200&q=80 Gamecocks Defeat Arch Rivals in Thrilling Overtime Finish Gamecocks Defeat Arch Rivals in Thrilling Overtime Finish https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/2fOa86oG6Yfza4Ivjr7a https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589829085413-56de8ae18c73?w=1200&q=80 High-Profile Murdaugh Financial Trial Begins in Richland County High-Profile Murdaugh Financial Trial Begins in Richland County https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/IhMKeRLWmmW1QUuRi7bQ https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1555396273-367ea4eb4db5?w=1200&q=80 Five Points Revitalization Project Adds 3 New Late-Night Eateries Five Points Revitalization Project Adds 3 New Late-Night Eateries https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/Tut1VNW8n23QeQArRmPG https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1541535650810-10d26f5c2ab3?w=1200&q=80 Gamecocks Defeat Arch Rivals in Thrilling Overtime Finish Gamecocks Defeat Arch Rivals in Thrilling Overtime Finish https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/5UwBUFoskg59jp6caGEu https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589829085413-56de8ae18c73?w=1200&q=80 High-Profile Murdaugh Financial Trial Begins in Richland County High-Profile Murdaugh Financial Trial Begins in Richland County https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/6j28j88hvkQAAetknm3v https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1541535650810-10d26f5c2ab3?w=1200&q=80 Gamecocks Defeat Arch Rivals in Thrilling Overtime Finish Gamecocks Defeat Arch Rivals in Thrilling Overtime Finish https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/ai-boom-continues-driving-global-hardware-demand /src/assets/images/ai_hardware_1788648353660.jpg AI Boom Continues Driving Global Hardware Demand The artificial-intelligence boom continues to influence demand for advanced computer hardware around the world. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/ai-debate-reaches-hollywood /src/assets/images/hollywood_ai_1788648464512.jpg AI Debate Reaches Hollywood Artificial intelligence continues to generate debate throughout Hollywood as filmmakers, performers and studios consider how rapidly developing technology could change entertainment. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/ai-raises-new-concerns-about-truth-and-fiction /src/assets/images/ai_truth_fiction_1788648343837.jpg AI Raises New Concerns About Truth and Fiction Artificial intelligence is creating new challenges for journalists, filmmakers and the public because increasingly realistic synthetic images, audio and video can make it difficult to determine what is authentic. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/SRMewNzHgYedqOyGer7N https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/230418164538-02-dominion-fox-trial-settlement-0418-super-169.jpg Some on-air claims about Dominion Voting Systems were false, Fox News acknowledges in statement after deal is announced Some on-air claims about Dominion Voting Systems were false, Fox News acknowledges in statement after deal is announced https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/7B0rPxWk6QdsDlKb4A3G https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/230302143250-feinstein-feb-15-super-169.jpg GOP prepared to block vote to replace Feinstein on Senate Judiciary Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on Tuesday that he hopes to replace Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein on the Senate Judiciary Committee with ... https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/DSCM6N0fVU8qJu8edOmS https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/230418164748-tapper-smile-vpx-super-169.jpg 'Difficult to say with a straight face': Tapper reacts to Fox News' statement on settlement A settlement has been reached in Dominion Voting Systems' defamation case against Fox News, the judge for the case announced. The network will pay mor... https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/97RK5tPVUU7mgc7XzUqv https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/230415121952-01-lashawn-thompson-super-169.jpg Fulton County, Georgia, jail leadership resigns after inmate's death and accusations of unsanitary conditions Three officials at the Fulton County, Georgia, jail have stepped down amid an investigation into the death of an inmate whose family said was housed i... https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/CI9f90br5EsWJGrYMK38 https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/230417073914-crosley-green-thumb-dnt-vpx-super-169.jpg He was free for 2 years. Now Crosley Green is back in prison for a crime he says he didn't commit A Florida man who served three decades behind bars for a murder he says he didn't commit returned to prison Monday after spending the past two years b... https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/0JtYdF3nYb8rYVsFewgE https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/230416131258-01-fedex-shooting-indianapolis-lawsuit-super-169.jpg Family of victim and survivors of Indianapolis FedEx mass shooting file lawsuit against gun magazine manufacturer and distributors The family of a victim and several survivors of a mass shooting at a FedEx facility in Indianapolis filed a lawsuit against companies involved in the ... https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/DHQSSuFHQjxF43diR1nr https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/230416140110-maria-bartiromo-file-020823-restricted-super-169.jpg Here are the 20 specific Fox broadcasts and tweets Dominion says were defamatory • Fox-Dominion trial delay 'is not unusual,' judge says • Fox News' defamation battle isn't stopping Trump's election lies https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/Sj8TfbuZD5UzfbzuTQx8 https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/201014194936-fbi-seal-logo-super-169.jpg Tennessee Air National Guardsman applied to be a hitman online, the FBI says. It was a spoof website and now he's facing charges A Tennessee Air National Guardsman is facing charges after applying to be a hitman on a spoof "rent-a-hitman" website, according to the Department of ... https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/89iCspbwrQEgM0MwMxuN https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/230411161107-stressed-man-stock-super-169.jpeg Still haven't filed your taxes? Here's what you need to know So far this tax season, the IRS has received more than 90 million income tax returns for 2022. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/7Cp7rZzn82h1HKhrARl7 https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/230413121210-01-dominion-courtroom-super-169.jpg Analysis: Fox News is about to enter the true No Spin Zone This is it. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/4IsfQpyN76ZSWzsfu4Gl https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/230410105412-08-silicon-valley-bank-svb-0310-super-169.jpg Silicon Valley Bank collapse renews calls to address disparities impacting entrepreneurs of color When customers at Silicon Valley Bank rushed to withdraw billions of dollars last month, venture capitalist Arlan Hamilton stepped in to help some of ... https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/8R0X9mCMZ0FVqhb50x8a https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/221206144523-handler-jones-leguizamo-split-super-169.jpg Chelsea Handler, Leslie Jones and John Leguizamo among guest hosts to step in for Trevor Noah on 'The Daily Show' The end of an era is fast approaching at Comedy Central's "The Daily Show," and the network has announced at least the first phase of plans for what's... https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/JsG0tgGV1iirgOfK7VQ2 https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/210706174004-10-cannes-red-carpet-0706-bong-joon-ho-super-169.jpg Bong Joon Ho's 'Mickey 17' gets trailer and release date A first look at "Parasite" director Bong Joon Ho's new movie is here. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/PCIgw0XxB4O4XFFT3RKd https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/221206142256-ashton-kutcher-michael-kutcher-file-072813-super-169.jpg Ashton Kutcher and twin Michael talk health, guilt and rift between them In a rare interview, twin brothers Ashton and Michael Kutcher talked about both their bond and their rift. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/biz-columbia-fintech-hub-attracts-45m-venture-capital-for-ai-banking-solutions-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1559526324-4b87b5e36e44?auto=format&fit=crop&q=80&w=1200 Columbia Financial Tech Startup PalmettoPay Secures $45M Series B Round Homegrown fintech venture founded by USC alumni expands its BullStreet District headquarters, creating 120 high-wage software and compliance careers. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/biz-midlands-small-business-chamber-reports-record-commercial-occupancy-in-vista-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1497366216548-37526070297c?auto=format&fit=crop&q=80&w=1200 Midlands Commercial Real Estate Report Shows 96% Retail Occupancy Across Congaree Vista Surging foot traffic, new chef-driven restaurants, and corporate regional offices drive commercial lease values to five-year highs in downtown Columbia. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/biz-sc-department-of-agriculture-expands-certified-sc-grown-autumn-market-campaign-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1488459716781-31db52582fe9?auto=format&fit=crop&q=80&w=1200 SC Certified Grown Farm Program Surpasses 3,000 Enrolled Producers Statewide State Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers highlights record farm-to-table consumer demand at the South Carolina State Farmers Market in West Columbia. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/biz-sc-port-of-charleston-sets-record-container-volume-boosts-midlands-inland-port-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1586528116311-ad8dd3c8310d?auto=format&fit=crop&q=80&w=1200 SC Ports Reports All-Time Cargo Record as Midlands Rail Volumes Surge 24% Containerized trade through the Port of Charleston and the Inland Port network in Dillon and Greer delivers record economic impact across Midlands supply chains. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/bmR4qW3hIREUOQxpv37D https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/221206125515-02-john-travolta-kirstie-alley-super-169.jpg John Travolta and Kirstie Alley: A love story Kirstie Alley and John Travolta were never romantically involved, but that wasn't how she initially wanted it. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/1RUyxjNlwfYzJienjRln https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/221205172141-kirstie-alley-2005-super-169.jpg Kirstie Alley, 'Cheers' and 'Veronica's Closet' star, dead at 71 Actress Kirstie Alley has died after a brief battle with cancer, her children announced on social media. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/Fj2kQ6gH0riyT5YKUOIE http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/dam/assets/161118092033-devbot-tz-2-top-tease.jpg Driverless 'Roborace' car makes street track debut It is a car kitted out with technology its developers boldly predict will transform our cities and change the way we live. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/EGfQA3lM89jaDulHtG5z http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/dam/assets/161031214334-01-fake-news-top-tease.jpg How to outsmart fake news in your Facebook feed Fake news is actually really easy to spot -- if you know how. Consider this your New Media Literacy Guide. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/EIoG1q9PHh8RXYoojhE8 http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/dam/assets/161115155933-oscar-watch-mbf-legacy-machine-perpetual-top-tease.jpg Revealed: Winners of the 'Oscars of watches' It's the prize giving ceremony that everyone's on time for. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/6TdoK2ToZXRPUPdNtylE http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/dam/assets/161114161121-01-super-moon-2016-restricted-top-tease.jpg Brightest supermoon since 1948 See photos of November's supermoon -- the brightest in nearly 70 years. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-columbia-water-main-repair-clears-downtown-precautionary-boil-advisory-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1581092160607-ee22621dd758?auto=format&fit=crop&q=80&w=1200 BREAKING: City of Columbia Clears Precautionary Boil Water Advisory Following Main Repair Water quality lab tests confirm all municipal drinking water standards meet federal guidelines following the emergency repair of a 24-inch transmission line near Elmwood Avenue. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-palmetto-health-foundation-announces-15m-pediatric-cardiology-endowment-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1519494026892-80bbd2d6fd0d?auto=format&fit=crop&q=80&w=1200 BREAKING: Palmetto Health Foundation Receives Transformative $15M Pediatric Cardiology Gift A landmark philanthropic donation will establish a regional center of excellence for children facing congenital heart conditions at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital in Columbia. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-columbia-bullstreet-district-announces-65m-tech-innovation-campus-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1486406146926-c627a92ad1ab?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 BullStreet District Unveils $65M Biotechnology & Robotics Research Campus Anchor tenants include regional biomedical research institutes and AI medical diagnostic labs bringing 450 high-wage technical jobs. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-south-carolina-ports-record-september-container-cargo-volume-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1586528116311-ad8dd3c8310d?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 SC Ports Authority Records Highest September Container Cargo Throughput in State History Deepened Charleston Harbor handles super-post-Panamax vessels at zero container dwell time, driving Midlands rail logistics boom. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-richland-county-circuit-court-sentencing-armed-robbery-spree-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1453733197781-704fa5988299?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Richland County Circuit Judge Hands Down Consecutive 25-Year Sentences in Commercial Robbery Spree A 28-year-old Midlands offender receives a 50-year aggregate sentence following convictions for five armed robberies across Two Notch Road. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-midlands-aerospace-cluster-secures-280m-defense-avionics-subcontracts-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1581091226825-a6a2a5aee158?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Midlands Aerospace Precision Cluster Secures $280M in Next-Generation Defense Subcontracts Precision machining and composite fabrication facilities across Richland and Lexington expand second-shift production. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-soda-city-hospitality-association-weekend-economic-impact-surpasses-18m-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1555396273-367ea4eb4db5?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Midlands Hospitality Industry Registers $18.4M Economic Windfall Over Gamecocks Primetime Weekend Hotels across downtown Columbia, Five Points restaurants, and gameday caterers operate at 98% occupancy capacity. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-sc-cleantech-venture-fund-announces-15m-seed-round-for-battery-recycling-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1558441719-aa34bbe5f347?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia Cleantech Startup Closes $15M Series A for Closed-Loop Lithium Battery Recycling Proprietary hydrometallurgical recovery process extracts 96% pure battery-grade cathode materials from electric vehicle packs. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-south-carolina-dhec-confirms-zero-pathogens-congaree-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1506744038136-46273834b3fb?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 BREAKING HEALTH: Environmental Regulators Confirm Congaree River Recreation Waters Clear of Runoff Contamination Laboratory testing of water samples along the Gervais Street Bridge corridor meets all clean-water recreational safety standards. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-soda-city-market-saturday-record-attendance-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1555396273-367ea4eb4db5?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 BREAKING LOCAL: Soda City Market Welcomes Over 18,000 Visitors on Main Street as Fall Season Opens Perfect 76-degree autumn temperatures draw record morning crowds across six pedestrian blocks of artisan stalls and international food. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-columbia-innovista-tech-campus-semiconductor-expansion-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1518770660439-4636190af475?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Midlands Tech Boom: $42M Advanced Microelectronics Packaging Center Lands at Innovista Public-private partnership with USC and global semiconductor fabrication partners brings 180 high-wage engineering jobs to downtown Columbia. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-midlands-life-sciences-corridor-bio-manufacturing-growth-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1526304640581-d334cdbbf45e?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Midlands Life Sciences Corridor Attracts $65M Biomedical Device Manufacturing Headquarters Precision surgical instrumentation firm selects Cayce industrial park, citing central highway access and USC biomedical talent pipeline. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-soda-city-hospitality-revenue-breaks-q3-records-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1555396273-367ea4eb4db5?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia Hospitality and Tourism Bureau Reports Record $84M Third-Quarter Visitor Spending Sold-out SEC football gamedays, riverfront festivals, and downtown conferences propel hotel occupancy to 88%. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-sc-aerospace-cluster-boeing-lockheed-supplier-contracts-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1506744038136-46273834b3fb?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 South Carolina Aerospace Supplier Network Secures $140M in Advanced Composite Contracts Midlands and Lowcountry precision tooling firms expand aerospace production lines for commercial composite airframes. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-columbia-fintech-headquarters-announces-nasdaq-ipo-filing-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1526304640581-d334cdbbf45e?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia-Based Financial Technology Leader Submits Confidential S-1 Filing for NASDAQ IPO Main Street corporate success story prepares for public market debut after reaching $1.8B private enterprise valuation. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-richland-county-emergency-power-substation-fire-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1541888946425-d0fbb1861593?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia Fire Crews Contain Transformer Fire at Broad River Regional Substation Dominion Energy and Richland County first responders quickly contained an electrical fire at a key transmission station Tuesday evening, preventing broad grid interruptions. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-richland-county-sheriff-launches-free-neighborhood-safety-portal-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589829545856-d10d557cf95f?auto=format&fit=crop&q=80&w=1200 BREAKING: Richland County & SLED Partner with Soda City News on Free Sex Offender Registry Lookup A new public safety transparency tool allows Midlands residents to quickly check neighborhood registry status, compliance records, and official SLED verification data for their zip code. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-columbia-craft-brewing-culinary-corridor-expansion-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1555396273-367ea4eb4db5?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia Culinary Corridor: Three New Independent Restaurants and Rooftop Breweries Open Downtown Historic Main Street and Vista warehouse restorations debut farm-to-table Southern cuisine and craft micro-brewing. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-midlands-small-business-capital-grants-awarded-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1441986300917-64674bd600d8?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia Chamber of Commerce Distributes $1.2M in Micro-Grants to 45 Independent Retailers Grant program helps legacy mom-and-pop shops modernize digital e-commerce storefronts and energy efficiency. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-bmw-manufacturing-opens-battery-logistics-corridor-connecting-columbia-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1544620347-c4fd4a3d5957?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 BMW Manufacturing and SC Ports Open Direct Rail Battery Logistics Corridor Through Columbia Hub Electrified freight train sets transport advanced lithium battery cells from Midlands suppliers directly to Spartanburg assembly lines. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-columbia-commercial-real-estate-office-occupancy-hits-post-pandemic-high-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1486406146926-c627a92ad1ab?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Downtown Columbia Class-A Office Occupancy Climbs to 89%, Outpacing National Metro Average Law firms, financial advisors, and tech consultants drive surge in premium Main Street and Vista workspace leases. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-scout-motors-blythewood-factory-reaches-steel-framing-completion-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1486406146926-c627a92ad1ab?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Scout Motors Completes Structural Steel Framing on $2B Blythewood Electric Vehicle Assembly Plant The colossal Midlands manufacturing facility remains on schedule to begin initial vehicle production by late 2026. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-sc-inland-port-record-logistics-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1586528116311-ad8dd3c8310d?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 SC State Ports Authority Reports Record Container Volume at Inland Port Logistics Terminals Intermodal rail hubs in Greer and Dillon moved over 18,000 rail lifts in the preceding week, marking an all-time throughput milestone for Southeast freight. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-sc-statehouse-reaches-bipartisan-compromise-on-road-repair-surge-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1541888946425-d0fbb18086f6?auto=format&fit=crop&q=80&w=1200 BREAKING: SC Statehouse Reaches Bipartisan $920M Road Repair & Bridge Safety Compromise South Carolina legislative leaders announce a breakthrough infrastructure deal allocating immediate emergency funding to repave heavily traveled Midlands corridors and repair structurally deficient bridges. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-south-carolina-sled-cracks-interstate-cargo-theft-ring-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589578527966-fdac0f44566c?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 SLED & Federal Agents Seize $4.2M in Stolen Freight in Joint Interstate Cargo Raid A coordinated sweep across Lexington and Aiken counties recovers stolen commercial electronics and automotive microchips bound for black market export. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-soda-city-news-launches-universal-asl-blind-accessibility-suite-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1516321318423-f06f85e504b3?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Soda City News Launches Breakthrough ASL Video Interpreter & Blind Screen-Reader Suite New universal web suite provides American Sign Language visual translation videos, synchronized captions, and instant audio speech synthesis for all readers. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-columbia-police-seize-34-illegal-ghost-guns-in-midlands-operation-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589829545856-d10d557cf95f?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia Police Department Operation "Safe Streets" Recovers 34 Untraceable Firearms Tactical units target illicit firearm conversion devices and 3D-printed polymer receivers in targeted weekend sweep. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-sc-attorney-general-files-deceptive-practices-complaint-elder-scam-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1450133064473-71024230f91b?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 SC Attorney General Files Major Enforcement Action Against Predatory Home Repair Network State consumer protection bureau alleges coordinated roof replacement fraud scamming over 120 Midlands elderly homeowners. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-courts-midlands-grand-jury-indicts-regional-cargo-theft-ring-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589829545856-d10d557cf95f?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Midlands Grand Jury Returns 28-Count Indictment Against Interstate Cargo Theft Ring Targeting I-77 Warehouses Multi-agency task force recovers $3.4 million in commercial electronics, industrial HVAC equipment, and retail shipments. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-courts-sc-supreme-court-upholds-body-camera-public-access-ruling-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589829545856-d10d557cf95f?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 SC Supreme Court Issues Landmark Precedent Upholding Public Body Camera Disclosures in Police Misconduct Cases Justices unanimously rule that public interest outweighs blanket administrative privacy exemptions when critical incidents occur. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-courts-richland-county-sheriff-launches-smart-neighborhood-patrols-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1508962914676-134849a727f0?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott Deploys Integrated Smart Patrols with Thermal Drone Support New regional response grid pairs community patrol deputies with rapid-deployment optical drones to combat property crime. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-courts-lexington-county-narcotics-interdiction-operation-seizure-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1541888946425-d0fbb1861593?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Lexington County Narcotics Unit Intercepts 14 Kilos of Fentanyl and Methamphetamine in Joint Highway Interdiction K9 unit alert during routine commercial vehicle inspection on I-20 leads to significant interstate narcotics seizure. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-courts-federal-circuit-appeals-ruling-clean-water-enforcement-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589829545856-d10d557cf95f?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Fourth Circuit Appeals Court Reaffirms Citizen Suit Protections for South Carolina River Basin Conservationists Federal panel denies industrial appeal seeking to dismiss environmental enforcement lawsuits over unauthorized chemical discharges. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-nolan-wells-ben-crump-files-subpoenas-grand-jury-records-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589829545856-d10d557cf95f?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Nolan Wells Case: Legal Team Serves Federal Subpoenas for Jackson County Investigative Phone Records Ben Crump files urgent legal motions seeking forensic cell phone dumps, Snapchat logs, and witness communications. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-richland-county-sheriff-busts-interstate-luxury-auto-theft-ring-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1541872703-74c5e44368f9?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Sheriff Leon Lott Announces 12 Arrests in Multi-State Luxury Vehicle Reprogramming Ring RCSD investigators recover 24 stolen high-end vehicles worth over $2.1M following coordinated Midlands raids. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-south-carolina-supreme-court-upholds-new-dna-evidence-statute-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1453733190371-0a9bedd82893?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 SC Supreme Court Upholds Expanded Post-Conviction Genetic Genealogy Testing Rights Unanimous ruling confirms inmates can petition for modern forensic DNA testing on historical evidence without arbitrary statutory timebars. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-columbia-police-expand-neighborhood-patrol-sensor-program-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1541888946425-d0fbb1861593?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia Police Department Deploys Smart Acoustic Safety Sensors Across Five High-Density Corridors Chief Skip Holbrook outlines second-phase rollout of real-time acoustic gunshot detection and rapid dispatch coordination. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-federal-grand-jury-indicts-cybercrime-wire-fraud-syndicate-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1550751827-4bd374c3f58b?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Federal Grand Jury in Columbia Indicts Eight in $14M Commercial Real Estate Escrow Wire Scheme U.S. Attorney for South Carolina reveals charges against international phishing syndicate targeting Midlands home buyers. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-sc-credit-unions-record-unprecedented-first-time-homebuyer-loan-volume-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1560518883-ce09059eeffa?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Midlands Credit Unions Report Surge in Low-Down-Payment Home Mortgages for Local Families Innovative 100% financing programs with zero private mortgage insurance help over 1,400 young couples purchase homes. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-sc-statehouse-special-appropriations-flooding-package-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1541872703-74c5e44368f9?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 SC General Assembly Advances Emergency $85M Infrastructure Stormwater Relief Measure State budget leaders reached a unified bipartisan compromise funding urgent drainage expansions across low-lying Midlands and Pee Dee corridors. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-columbia-chamber-of-commerce-hosts-annual-midlands-business-spotlight-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1519452635265-7b1fbfd1e4e0?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia Chamber Honors Top Midlands Entrepreneurs at Annual Small Business Gala Independent restaurateurs, tech founders, and logistics leaders recognized for creating hundreds of local jobs. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-lexington-medical-center-expands-regional-cardiac-surgery-wing-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1576091160399-112ba8d25d1d?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Lexington Medical Center Opens $45M Cardiovascular Surgery and Robotic Imaging Center The hospital's new wing features cutting-edge hybrid operating suites for minimally invasive heart valve procedures. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-midlands-logistics-hub-i77-distribution-center-leases-record-space-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1494412574643-ff11b0a5c1c3?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 I-77 Logistics Corridor Near Cayce Signs Major National Retail Distribution Tenants Over 800,000 square feet of temperature-controlled warehouse space leased to national grocery and retail distributors. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-palmetto-health-credit-union-announces-zero-fee-student-banking-package-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1526304640581-d334cdbbf45e?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Palmetto Citizens Credit Union Launches Zero-Fee First-Time Homebuyer and Student Loans Local financial cooperative rolls out competitive mortgage down-payment assistance to combat rising Midlands housing costs. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-courts-columbia-municipal-court-launches-online-traffic-fine-settlement-portal-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1450133064473-71024230f91b?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia Municipal Court Unveils Digital Portal for Resolving Minor Citations Without In-Person Court New electronic justice system saves residents hours of waiting time for non-moving and equipment violations. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-courts-lexington-county-sheriff-announces-organized-retail-theft-crackdown-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1541888946425-d0fbb1861593?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Lexington County Sheriff's Multi-Agency Sting Nets 14 in Commercial Retail Theft Ring Detectives recover over $180,000 in stolen power tools, designer cosmetics, and commercial electronics. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-courts-nolan-wells-family-legal-challenge-independent-autopsy-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589829545856-d10d557cf95f?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Nolan Wells Case: Family and Ben Crump File Formal Petitions Demanding Complete Case Files Attorneys challenge Mississippi state medical findings, pointing to blunt force head trauma discovered during private forensic examination. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-courts-richland-county-fifth-circuit-solicitor-juvenile-diversion-program-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589994965851-a8f479c573a9?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Fifth Circuit Solicitor Expands Juvenile Court Diversion and Vocational Apprenticeships Richland and Kershaw counties report a 40% decline in youth recidivism following innovative community mentorship placements. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-courts-south-carolina-supreme-court-hears-arguments-on-digital-privacy-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1505664194779-8beaceb93744?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 South Carolina Supreme Court Hears Key Arguments on Police Geofence Warrant Privacy Standards Justices weigh constitutional protections against automated mobile location data sweeps in criminal investigations. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-scout-motors-blythewood-supplier-park-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1581091226825-a6a2a5aee158?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Scout Motors Supply Chain Expands in Blythewood: Three Tier-1 EV Manufacturers Announce 450 Jobs Major automotive suppliers confirm $185 million in capital investment in northern Richland County manufacturing park. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-sc-supreme-court-wetlands-ruling-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589829545856-d10d557cf95f?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 South Carolina Supreme Court Hears Oral Arguments on Municipal Zoning and Freshwater Wetland Protections Justices examine local government authority to safeguard flood-mitigating marshes from unauthorized commercial development. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-columbia-job-growth-outpaces-southeast-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1486406146926-c627a92ad1ab?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia Metropolitan Job Growth Outpaces Regional Southeast Average in Third Quarter Midlands regional unemployment rate holds steady at 3.1 percent as healthcare, logistics, and tech lead hiring gains. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-midlands-auto-theft-task-force-bust-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1509114397022-ed747cca3f65?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Midlands Law Enforcement Task Force Recovers 42 Stolen Vehicles in Multi-County Sweep Joint operation involving Richland, Lexington, and state troopers dismantles organized VIN-cloning auto theft ring. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-midlands-credit-unions-small-business-lending-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1559526324-4b87b5e36e44?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Midlands Credit Unions Report Record $85 Million in Local Small Business & Startup Lending Community lenders expand flexible micro-loan programs for independent restaurants, artisans, and family contractors. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-federal-indictment-utility-cyber-syndicate-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1526374965328-7f61d4dc18c5?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Federal Grand Jury Indicts International Cyber Syndicate for Attempted Utility Network Intrusions U.S. Attorney for South Carolina reveals charges against foreign hacking group targeting municipal electric and water controls. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-downtown-office-occupancy-rebounds-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1497366216548-37526070297c?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Downtown Columbia Commercial Office Occupancy Rebounds to 91% Driven by Legal & Tech Leases Class-A towers along Main Street and Gervais attract regional headquarters drawn to walkable dining and cultural amenities. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-rcsd-youth-mentorship-expansion-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1577495508048-b635879837f1?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Richland County Sheriff's Department Expands Community Youth Mentorship Precinct Program Deputies partner with local churches and community centers to mentor at-risk teens and offer after-school tutoring. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-local-coffee-roaster-southeast-expansion-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1501339847302-ac426a4a7cbb?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Columbia Specialty Coffee Roaster Loveland Coffee Expands Grocery Distribution Across Carolinas Irmo-born independent roastery brings direct-trade Palmetto roast beans to 140 regional supermarket shelves. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-ag-consumer-subscription-settlement-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1450133064473-71024230f91b?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 South Carolina Attorney General Secures $12 Million Settlement Over Deceptive Online Auto-Renewals Major national digital subscription service required to issue direct restitution checks to thousands of impacted Carolina consumers. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/breaking-statehouse-clean-water-initiative-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1577495508048-b635879837f1?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Legislative Leaders Convene at Statehouse to Unveil $150M Midlands Aquifer Protection Compact A bipartisan coalition of lawmakers announced historic funding to protect groundwater reserves and modernize regional wastewater treatment infrastructure. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/business-sc-ports-refrigerated-cargo-growth-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1586528116311-ad8dd3c8310d?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 SC Ports Authority Reports 14% Annual Surge in Refrigerated Agricultural Cargo Through Charleston State-of-the-art cold-storage facilities near terminal gates power record exports of regional poultry and fresh fruit. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-fifth-circuit-digital-case-management-sept22 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589829545856-d10d557cf95f?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Fifth Judicial Circuit Court Launches Modernized Digital Docket System to Expedite Civil Cases New cloud-based filing portal reduces court case processing times by 40 percent in Richland and Kershaw counties. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-interpol-global-cyber-extortion-syndicate-dismantled-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1550751827-4bd374c3f58b?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Interpol and Federal Agencies Dismantle Multimillion-Dollar Global Ransomware Syndicate Across 12 Nations Coordinated dawn raids resulted in 24 arrests and the seizure of $42 million in encrypted assets tied to extortion attacks on municipal hospitals and water treatment plants. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-icc-human-trafficking-evidence-hearing-hague-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1505664194779-8beaceb93744?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 International Criminal Court Opens Comprehensive Cross-Border Human Trafficking Trial in The Hague Chief prosecutors presented harrowing forensic evidence and financial money trails dismantling a brutal Mediterranean extortion network operating out of North Africa. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-manhattan-grand-jury-indicts-fintech-executives-laundering-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1450133064473-71024230f91b?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Manhattan Federal Grand Jury Indicts Fintech Executives in $450 Million Offshore Laundering Scheme Federal prosecutors allege corporate officers manipulated automated peer-to-peer payment routing to funnel illicit proceeds through bogus commercial shell entities. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/crime-london-met-police-recover-stolen-renaissance-masterpieces-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1579783902614-a3fb3927b675?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 London Metropolitan Police Recover $85 Million in Stolen Renaissance Masterpieces in Covert Sting Art and Antiquities officers arrested five black-market brokers and safely secured three 16th-century Italian oil paintings missing since a museum burglary. https://www.sodacitynews.com/news/congaree-river-flash-flood-warning-issued-2026 https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1515694346937-94d85e41e6f0?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1200&q=80 Flash Flood Warning Issued for Congaree River Basin Following Sudden Downpour National Weather Service meteorologists in Columbia issued flash flood advisories for low-lying zones along the Congaree River and Rocky Branch Creek.