🌱 DHEC Recommends COVID Vaccine In Pregnancy + Housing Market

Rise and shine, Columbia! Let's get you all caught up to start this Thursday, February 17 off on an informed note. Here's everything you need to know today in town.

First, today's weather:

Cloudy, breezy; a p.m. shower. High: 77 Low: 65.

Here are the top three stories in Columbia today:

1. According to a new CDC study, babies whose mothers received both COVID-19 vaccines have a reduced risk of being hospitalized with coronavirus for the first six months of their lives. Now, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is encouraging pregnant people across the state to get their shots. "We have known for a while that a COVID-19 vaccination is completely safe and effective for pregnant people,” said Dr. Brannon Traxler, DHEC Public Health Director. “This latest news from CDC is exciting because it not only confirms the benefits for those who are pregnant, but it highlights the benefits for their babies as well." (Abccolumbia.com)
2. A Columbia man has been convicted of second-degree burglary, second-degree arson, and ill-treatment of animals and will serve 15 years in the South Carolina Department of Corrections. According to the solicitor's office, 28-year-old Christopher Tillman intentionally started a fire at a local business on Feb. 28, 2020; as a result of the fire, the business was destroyed and the owner's family dog died. (WIS10)
3. The nationwide housing market continues to experience lower inventory and higher prices — a trend that could have lasting impacts, according to University of South Carolina professor Stephen Martin. Martin, the Clinical Assistant of Finance at the university, expects that the current market "will define and inform the real estate market for another decade." He also expects house prices to flatten over the next couple of years and interest rates to continue rising. (wpde.com)

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Today in Columbia:

• Anne Frank: A History For Today Exhibition - Anne Frank Center (5:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• The South Carolina State Library is asking for community feedback on federal Institute of Museum and Library Services funds. (Facebook)
• The Columbia Police Department seized two guns on Monday: one of a driver at a traffic stop who was "seen asleep at the wheel," the other following a collision. Officials report that neither individual was lawfully able to possess a firearm. (WACH.com)
• Well-traveled or less-traveled, Columbia has many trails to explore. Check out Experience Columbia SC's list of trails around the capital city. (Instagram)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Events:

• Breast Ultrasound Screening Coming Direct to You! (February 18)
• Learn How To Reduce Your Risk For Heart Disease During American Heart Month (February 28)
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You're officially in the loop for today. I'll see you soon!

— Dan Casarella

About me: Dan Casarella is a writer, podcast producer, and small business development specialist who formerly worked in late-night television. He’s produced many talk segments, including with President Joe Biden, Kobe Bryant, and Chadwick Boseman. Dan studied Media Studies and Production at Temple University. He also enjoys running, painting, and the highs and lows of Philadelphia’s sports teams.