Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- For one hour, Columbia officials are encouraging citizens to turn the lights out.

The city is taking part in Earth Hour. From 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, officials say they're joining with cities and organizations around the world by switching off all nonessential lights for one hour.

Organizers say Earth Hour is the world's largest public environmental action.

People are encouraged to turn out their lights, too, to increase energy conservation.