🌱 Mynt Lounge Shooting + USC President + Teacher Shortage

Happy Friday, people of Columbia! Here's everything you need to know today in town.

First, today's weather:

Mostly sunny. High: 58 Low: 33.

Here are the top three stories today in Columbia:

1. Police are investigating a shooting that occurred at the Mynt Lounge on Decker Boulevard on Thursday at around 1:00 a.m. Two people were shot in the lower body and taken to a local hospital. No one else was injured in the incident and the shooting is currently under investigation. (WIS10)
2. The University of South Carolina will be holding a meet and greet Friday for its presidential candidate. The candidate has not yet been named and will be announced before Friday's event. Students and employees can meet with them in order to discuss campus issues. (WIS10)
3. Due to a teacher shortage caused by COVID-19, Columbia area schools will move from in-person to online learning. Schools will be virtual from today through the 18th and resume in-person learning on the 19th. (Charleston Post Courier)

From our sponsor:

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Today in Columbia:

• Foster Training At Palmetto Animal Assisted Life Services (5:00 PM)
• Festival of Laughs At Township Auditorium (7:00 PM)
• Emo Night Columbia At The Senate (8:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The South Carolina Emergency Management Division is reminding citizens that while a single degree or two may not seem like much, it makes all the difference when it comes to winter precipitation. Regardless of any forecast you see, be prepared for all the possibilities. (Facebook)
• Check out a South Carolinian's reaction to snow in the forecast. (Instagram)
• Due to the recent spike in COVID-19 cases, Trustus has made the decision to delay the opening of the upcoming production, "tick, tick... BOOM!" out of an abundance of caution. The safety of our cast, crew, and audiences is our top priority. (Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Events:

• Top 10 Divorce Mistakes & How to Avoid Them – Vesta's South Carolina Hub (January 20)
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You're officially in the loop for today! See you tomorrow for your next update.

— 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.