Episodios

  • South Carolina's Summer Surge: Infrastructure, Business Growth, and Innovation Propel the Palmetto State Forward

    South Carolina's Summer Surge: Infrastructure, Business Growth, and Innovation Propel the Palmetto State Forward
    Aug 17 2025
    South Carolina is marking a dynamic summer with major developments spanning infrastructure, business growth, government updates, education, and public safety. According to the Associated Press, the state Department of Transportation has broken ground on a significant $825 million widening project for Interstate 95, easing traffic bottlenecks at the Georgia state line. This is part of a broader push fueled by an increased gas tax, which has driven the annual highway construction budget from $2.7 billion to almost $7 billion over the past decade. Improvements are visible not only on major interstates but also on local roads, with more than a quarter of South Carolina’s 41,000-mile network repaved. Interstate projects, such as the $2 billion overhaul in Columbia and planned upgrades around Charleston, reflect South Carolina’s rapid population growth and a shift in transportation priorities from fixing potholes to tackling congestion.

    Turning to the Statehouse, the first regular session of the 126th General Assembly has adjourned, but signals from the Statehouse Report suggest that lawmakers will soon reconvene to address lingering policy topics. Government officials are mulling changes to local zoning and development regulations that could reshape the authority of local governments regarding land use, though nothing has yet reached final passage.

    South Carolina’s economy is surging, with Charleston Business reporting that 56 companies from the state appear on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing U.S. firms. Notably, R2P Innovations in Ladson placed fifth nationwide for its explosive 19,560 percent growth in manufacturing bulletproof doors. Companies like ATI, Hampton Lumber, and Rolls-Royce have announced multimillion-dollar expansions across multiple counties, promising to bring hundreds of new jobs and expanded economic opportunity, as highlighted by the Department of Commerce.

    Community news spotlights education and workforce initiatives. Clemson University, through its partnership with STEM Global Action, has engaged over 1,300 families and 700 schools in a statewide push to spark interest in science, technology, engineering, and math among K-12 students. An upcoming STEM SC event is set for August 23 in Greenville, aiming to further hands-on learning and career development for young South Carolinians. Additionally, SC Biz News has featured local higher education leaders for their strategies to address workforce preparation and the evolving needs of students amid funding and enrollment shifts.

    On the public safety front, the South Carolina Department of Public Safety reported seven fatalities on roadways during the weekend of August 8th. The issue of road safety remains critical as infrastructure expands to meet growing demand. Meanwhile, festivals and community activities are in full swing, as Soda Citizen notes, with events like the Lowcountry Jazz Festival and the Southern 500 NASCAR race drawing large crowds across the state.

    Looking ahead, listeners can expect the state legislature to revisit policy debates on local governance, while major infrastructure projects will continue to transform South Carolina’s transportation landscape. The business community is preparing for more hiring as manufacturing and tech expansions move forward. and students and families can anticipate additional statewide STEM events.

    Thank you for tuning in and remember to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs

    For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai
    Más Menos
    4 m
  • South Carolina Lightning Strike, Business Investments, and Legislative Developments Highlight Busy Week in the Palmetto State

    South Carolina Lightning Strike, Business Investments, and Legislative Developments Highlight Busy Week in the Palmetto State
    Aug 14 2025
    South Carolina listeners have seen a busy week with several major headlines drawing attention statewide. South Carolina Public Radio highlights a significant event in Mount Pleasant, where a powerful lightning strike caused a transformer explosion, leaving power outages and disrupted traffic for several hours. Thankfully, authorities report that no injuries occurred and power has since been restored, but the event underscores the impact of recent severe weather in the Lowcountry.

    In government and politics, the Statehouse has had a relatively quiet session with few legislative meetings, but activity is expected to pick up soon as lawmakers prepare for discussions around education funding and aging policy. According to Statehouse Report and official meeting schedules, the legislature is gearing up for debates that include oversight on education and potential policy changes aimed at workforce development and community needs.

    Local governments remain focused on land use and zoning, with ongoing debate over the proposed Lot Reform and Modernization Act, which would restrict how localities manage off-street parking and stormwater requirements. The Carolinas Associated General Contractors note that many local officials and county commissioners are expressing concern that pending state legislation could curb their authority to make tailored planning decisions for their communities.

    The South Carolina business outlook continues to trend positive, with several major investments shaping regional economies. Columbia Business Monthly details that PayMore is opening new electronics retail locations in Seven Oaks and Summerville, while Komar Industries and EnerSys have both announced expansions and new operations, bringing significant capital investments and creating jobs in York and Sumter counties. NorthMark Strategies has also selected Spartanburg County for a major new high-performance computing facility, marking a multi-billion dollar commitment to tech infrastructure in the Upstate. Additionally, the American Council of Engineering Companies of South Carolina unveiled a major new study showing that over $33 billion in infrastructure investment is on track to generate $56.2 billion in economic value and tens of thousands of jobs annually by 2027.

    Community news continues to focus on education and safety. School districts across the state are responding to workforce challenges by improving salaries and launching new career readiness programs. Although most schools are only beginning the new academic year, there is momentum behind teacher pay raises and investment in student training facilities. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety reported a concerning seven roadway fatalities over a recent weekend, sparking renewed calls for road safety awareness across the state.

    Significant recent weather included the Mount Pleasant lightning event, but forecasters say conditions remain typical for August, with thunderstorms possible but no major hurricanes on the immediate horizon as the state continues to monitor Atlantic activity.

    Looking ahead, listeners should be aware of the upcoming legislative return when major funding and policy debates are expected to resume. Business leaders await further details on the governor’s economic development strategy, while educators and families anticipate new school year updates. Stay tuned in the weeks ahead for developing stories and coming decisions that will shape South Carolina’s fall. Thanks for tuning in and please remember to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs

    For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai
    Más Menos
    4 m
  • South Carolina Sets Stage for Economic Growth, Infrastructure Expansion, and Political Developments in Late Summer Preview

    South Carolina Sets Stage for Economic Growth, Infrastructure Expansion, and Political Developments in Late Summer Preview
    Aug 12 2025
    South Carolina begins the week with a mix of political moves, economic expansion, and community developments shaping the late-summer agenda. According to the Governor’s Office, Henry McMaster is slated to speak at the grand opening of the MUSC Health Jean and Hugh K. Leatherman Behavioral Care Pavilion in Florence and join a groundbreaking to widen I-95 near Hardeeville, signaling continued focus on behavioral health access and interstate capacity ahead of peak travel and hurricane season. The schedule also notes a recent Order of the Palmetto recognition for Dr. Susan Elkins and remarks at the SCGOP Silver Elephant Dinner.

    At the Statehouse, the South Carolina Education Oversight Committee is holding a retreat in Beaufort this week, a mid-year checkpoint on school performance goals and accountability that typically informs recommendations on literacy, teacher pipeline, and assessment alignment. Meanwhile, in federal politics with state implications, Senator Tim Scott highlighted July legislative wins tied to tax relief, financial innovation, and workforce modernization, underscoring priorities that could flow through South Carolina’s small businesses and families. Separately, Fox News Digital reports GOP gubernatorial candidate and Congressman Ralph Norman is urging the General Assembly to revisit congressional redistricting to target a 7–0 Republican delegation, a move that would reignite debates following the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2024 ruling upholding the current map on partisan, not racial, grounds.

    South Carolina’s business climate added another data point as the Governor’s Office announced Arclin will invest more than 60 million dollars to expand its Dillon County operation, adding a 60,000-square-foot production line and creating over 30 jobs by July 2026. The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits and a 250,000 dollar Rural Infrastructure Fund grant to assist site prep and construction, reflecting continued emphasis on rural manufacturing growth.

    Community news includes education and infrastructure updates. South Carolina Public Radio’s Morning Headlines highlighted ongoing back-to-school coverage and local funding debates, while the Senate’s meeting schedule shows education oversight work sessions on tap. On infrastructure, the planned I-95 widening kickoff in Jasper County is a key corridor upgrade that dovetails with broader Lowcountry mobility projects, and local outlets such as WHHI-TV are tracking coastal community headlines from Beaufort to Hilton Head, including safety and tourism trends as late summer crowds persist.

    Public safety and weather remain steady concerns. No major severe weather has struck South Carolina in recent days, but with the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season approaching, the I-95 project start and ongoing coastal flood-mitigation efforts add resilience to evacuation and storm-readiness planning. South Carolina Public Radio continues to advise listeners on preparedness resources and storm outlooks as August unfolds.

    Looking Ahead: Watch for outcomes from the Education Oversight Committee retreat, updates on the I-95 widening timeline, potential movement from state leaders on redistricting debates, and additional industrial announcements as third-quarter incentives are finalized. Thank you for tuning in, and be sure to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs

    For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai
    Más Menos
    4 m
  • South Carolina's Transformative Week: Record Budget, Tech Investments, and Infrastructure Advances Reshape State's Future

    South Carolina's Transformative Week: Record Budget, Tech Investments, and Infrastructure Advances Reshape State's Future
    Aug 10 2025
    South Carolina has seen a week of significant developments across government, business, education, public safety, and infrastructure. Among the top headlines, a tragic weekend on the state’s roads resulted in five fatalities, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, whose ongoing highway safety efforts remain a central concern for many communities. Meanwhile, in state politics, Governor Henry McMaster signed an executive order requiring all state agencies to disclose both official and unofficial communications, signaling a push for greater transparency in government operations. This comes as the state’s general fund reached a record $15.1 billion following a surprising $1 billion increase in projected revenue, offering new opportunities and challenges for lawmakers as the budget takes shape, according to the South Carolina Policy Council.

    In Congress, Senator Tim Scott celebrated several legislative wins during July. The most notable was the One Big Beautiful Bill, a sweeping tax reform package aimed at providing relief to working families and small businesses. The new law, as highlighted by Senator Scott’s office, was paired with efforts to spur financial innovation, expand affordable housing, and modernize the workforce, all of which are likely to have effects felt across the state in the coming months.

    On the business and economic front, South Carolina continues to attract major investment. Business Facilities reports that global tech firm Cielo plans a $2 billion data center campus in Gaffney, bringing a surge of expected jobs and positioning the state as a competitive force in the Southeast’s technology sector. In Hampton County, Hampton Lumber announced plans for a new sawmill in Fairfax, bolstering the state’s traditional industries and creating new employment opportunities.

    Community news highlights include the completion of the new Johns Island Elementary School, which is set to open its doors August 12 and accommodate 700 second through fifth graders in a modern 90,600 square foot facility, as announced by local school district officials. Across the state, ongoing infrastructure upgrades are transforming urban and coastal regions. Charleston, for example, is about to see its biggest transformation in decades, with the $500 million modernization of Wando Welch Terminal and the upcoming Low Country Rapid Transit system, South Carolina’s first mass transit route, which will link several communities with climate-friendly electric buses and spur new mixed-use developments.

    Recent weather events have remained relatively calm; no major storms or extreme conditions were reported over the past week. However, the South Carolina Department of Public Safety urges cautious driving as traffic fatalities remain a pressing issue.

    Looking ahead, listeners should watch for updates on statehouse budget negotiations, continued progress on Charleston’s transportation overhaul, and the unfolding impact of new economic investments. The SC Education Oversight Committee will also hold a retreat in Beaufort, focusing on pressing issues in public education.

    Thank you for tuning in and be sure to subscribe for the latest news. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs

    For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai
    Más Menos
    3 m
  • South Carolina's Political and Economic Landscape: Scott's Tax Relief, Redistricting Drama, and Automotive Innovation Reshape State's Future

    South Carolina's Political and Economic Landscape: Scott's Tax Relief, Redistricting Drama, and Automotive Innovation Reshape State's Future
    Aug 7 2025
    South Carolina listeners are following a week shaped by prominent headlines in politics, economic development, public safety, and community initiatives. Senator Tim Scott has spotlighted what he calls major legislative wins in July, as the One Big Beautiful Bill has officially been signed into law, providing tax relief for working families and small businesses throughout the state. This comes as Republicans in the state legislature face calls from Representative Ralph Norman, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, to leverage their supermajorities in redrawing congressional lines with an aim to eliminate the state’s only Democratic congressional seat currently held by long-serving Congressman Jim Clyburn. The issue of redistricting is gaining national attention, especially as similar moves are underway in states like Texas, and this push is expected to become even more contentious with South Carolina's political landscape under scrutiny and existing maps still under litigation, according to Fox News Digital and The Washington Examiner.

    On the business front, South Carolina finds itself at the crossroads of automotive innovation and regulatory challenges. Scout Motors, which recently announced a $2 billion vehicle manufacturing facility in Blythewood—heralded as the largest investment in Richland County’s history—is projected to create over four thousand jobs. Yet, under current state law, manufacturers like Scout and Tesla cannot sell vehicles directly to customers in South Carolina. Advocacy groups, speaking at House hearings on bill H.3777 earlier this year, argue that changing this law would lower vehicle prices and expand consumer choice, aligning with trends in states embracing electric vehicle growth. The next legislative session will determine if South Carolina joins those states in allowing direct sales, a move widely followed by industry watchers.

    On the community and infrastructure side, School District Five has broken ground on a new addition, signaling ongoing investment in education. In Greenville, city officials have announced the commencement of four major infrastructure projects designed to enhance safety and connectivity for residents this summer, according to updates from the city website. Across the Upstate, collaboration among local governments, business alliances, and educational institutions continues to drive unified efforts to strengthen the region’s economy, as reported by Upstate Alliance leaders.

    Public safety remains a pressing concern. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety reports five lives lost on state roadways during the most recent weekend, reinforcing the need for continued vigilance and highway safety measures. As reported by South Carolina Public Radio and the state’s Department of Public Safety, this figure reflects the ongoing challenges in reducing traffic fatalities and underscores the critical mission of local law enforcement agencies.

    Recent weeks have brought typical summer weather, with no extraordinary weather events reported in the early days of August.

    Looking ahead, South Carolinians can expect spirited political debates as redistricting discussions develop, continued focus on legislative efforts to spur economic innovation, and updates on both infrastructure projects and education initiatives as districts prepare for a new school year. Major developments in the state’s auto industry are also anticipated as lawmakers revisit key consumer protection and economic freedom issues.

    Thank you for tuning in, and don't forget to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs

    For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai
    Más Menos
    4 m
  • SC Political Reshaping: Norman's Redistricting Push, Scott's Legislative Wins, and Economic Growth Spark Statewide Transformation

    SC Political Reshaping: Norman's Redistricting Push, Scott's Legislative Wins, and Economic Growth Spark Statewide Transformation
    Aug 7 2025
    South Carolina listeners are waking up to a busy news week, with both political and business currents shaping the Palmetto State. In a top headline making waves, Representative Ralph Norman is urging the Republican-led legislature to redraw South Carolina’s congressional districts with the goal of ousting longtime Democrat Jim Clyburn, the state’s only Democratic member of Congress, as reported by Fox News Digital. Norman, who is also running for governor, argues that Republican supermajorities should be used to create competitive districts and ultimately cement GOP control. This push for redistricting is stirring debate statewide, especially given the Supreme Court’s recent ruling upholding South Carolina’s district lines. Meanwhile, South Carolina Public Radio notes that gubernatorial campaigns are heating up, with Norman officially joining an already crowded Republican field.

    On the federal level, Senator Tim Scott has highlighted major legislative wins during the July session, including the passage of what he calls the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” This law delivers significant tax relief for working families and small businesses, while also advancing policies supporting innovation and affordable housing. Senator Scott continues a focus on economic opportunity and workforce modernization, reaffirming efforts to strengthen both state and national economies.

    Economic development continues to drive headlines with major projects in the automotive sector. According to Palmetto Promise Institute, Scout Motors’ $2 billion manufacturing plant remains one of the largest investments in Richland County history, projected to create more than 4,000 jobs as the company prepares to roll out American-made vehicles in 2027. However, state laws prohibiting direct-to-consumer vehicle sales mean that companies like Scout and Tesla face regulatory hurdles, prompting ongoing debate in the State House over modernizing these rules to encourage competition and growth.

    Local business and civic leaders emphasize the power of regional cooperation. The Upstate Alliance, featured in an interview with their leadership, cites unified efforts by public, private, and nonprofit partners as a driving force behind recent expansions and infrastructure investments, underscoring that a collaborative approach is drawing both domestic and international interest in the Upstate’s workforce and industry.

    On the education front, School District Five has broken ground on an additional 16,000 square foot classroom wing, promising much-needed space to accommodate growing student populations. In infrastructure news, the City of Greenville’s summer construction activity includes four major projects designed to enhance safety and connectivity, with city officials stressing the improvements' importance for both transportation and economic access.

    Public safety remains a concern, with the South Carolina Department of Public Safety reporting five roadway fatalities statewide last weekend. The department continues its efforts to promote safe driving and coordinate among law enforcement agencies to protect residents and visitors across South Carolina.

    Looking ahead, listeners can anticipate ongoing legislative battles over auto sales laws and redistricting, which have major implications for politics and business. Key gubernatorial races are gathering momentum, and observers will be watching for updates on education infrastructure and economic impact as new projects come online.

    Thank you for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs

    For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai
    Más Menos
    4 m
  • Nancy Mace Launches 2026 Gubernatorial Campaign, Promises Sweeping Reforms for South Carolina

    Nancy Mace Launches 2026 Gubernatorial Campaign, Promises Sweeping Reforms for South Carolina
    Aug 5 2025
    South Carolina is making headlines this week as Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace officially entered the 2026 gubernatorial race, promising to focus on criminal justice reform, education expansion, and eliminating the state income tax. According to ABC News, her candidacy sets the stage for a competitive GOP primary, with several prominent Republicans vying for the state’s top office and seeking the endorsement of former President Donald Trump. Mace, the first woman to graduate from The Citadel, emphasized her commitment to putting South Carolinians first and pledged to aggressively fight for their interests.

    Recent activity in the state legislature has seen lawmakers debating key changes to development and zoning laws. Carolinas AGC reports that proposed House Bill 765 would streamline how local governments review development applications and shift regulatory language to focus on tangible community needs. However, some local officials are concerned these updates could reduce municipal autonomy over land use decisions. With the legislative session set to resume, veto override votes and compliance with recent federal mandates are on the agenda.

    On the economic front, Charleston is hosting the 2025 Business Opportunity Conference, a major event for small businesses and minority suppliers looking to expand their networks and secure new contracts. The Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council leads the conference, reflecting South Carolina’s ongoing emphasis on economic diversification and opportunity for underrepresented business owners. Meanwhile, business news remains mixed across the state: The Business Narrative notes that forestry company Canfor is set to close its Estill and Darlington sawmills later this month, even as Hampton Lumber announced plans for new operations in Allendale County and Cielo Digital Infrastructure has chosen Cherokee County for its first data center project. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has also extended Dominion Energy’s V.C. Summer Nuclear Station’s operating license through 2062.

    In community news, there are notable developments in public education. The South Carolina School Board has recently approved a new electricity major and a significant athletic improvement budget, aimed at expanding career and technical education for students across the region, according to Citizenportal.ai. Infrastructure and school safety remain state priorities, especially in light of ongoing changes to federal funding mechanisms. As WUNC reports, recent reversals and lawsuits over federal school relief funds have required districts to adopt a piecemeal approach to long overdue renovations.

    On the political calendar, Governor Henry McMaster and Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette are scheduled to speak at the South Carolina Republican Party’s annual Silver Elephant Dinner in Columbia, with other appearances focused on economic development and policy meetings. South Carolina’s State Election Commission also recently updated voting registration protocols and continues to seek federal help to verify citizenship for new voters, as outlined in state election commission minutes.

    No significant weather events have been reported in recent weeks, allowing the focus to remain firmly on political, economic, and educational developments.

    Looking ahead, listeners should keep an eye on the evolving gubernatorial race, legislative decisions on development law, and further updates on business investment and school funding. The 2025 Business Opportunity Conference wraps up this week, promising new connections and opportunities for South Carolina’s entrepreneurs.

    Thank you for tuning in and don’t forget to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs

    For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai
    Más Menos
    4 m
  • South Carolina Invests $27M in Rural Infrastructure, Drives Economic Growth and Community Development

    South Carolina Invests $27M in Rural Infrastructure, Drives Economic Growth and Community Development
    Aug 3 2025
    South Carolina’s week brings a mix of economic growth, political maneuvering, and community-focused initiatives, painting a picture of a state actively navigating opportunity and challenge. One of the top headlines involves the state legislature’s decision to allocate an extra $27 million to boost rural water and sewer systems, aiming to provide essential improvements for small communities and set the stage for future economic development. The South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority will manage these funds and launch a competitive grants process, reinforcing the state’s push to modernize and upgrade critical facilities. As reported by South Carolina Public Radio, this move is seen as crucial for attracting business and ensuring community health.

    In other state government news, political attention remains high as the first half of the legislative session wraps up and attention shifts toward the coming gubernatorial race. According to a recent South Carolina Policy Council poll, nearly half of voters approve of the state legislature’s recent performance, but approval has slipped since January, reflecting uncertainty over issues like taxes, spending, transparency, and education. The same poll found both Democratic and Republican primary races wide open, with the majority of voters undecided.

    On the business front, small business continues to be the backbone of the state’s economy. Data from the U.S. Small Business Administration shows a net increase of over 3,000 new establishments and nearly 36,000 new jobs in the past year, with nearly three-quarters of these jobs created by enterprises with fewer than 500 employees. Manufacturing growth is also in the spotlight as FabLogix announced a $9.8 million expansion of its Spartanburg County facility, set to create 150 new jobs and further cement the Upstate as a center for advanced industry.

    Community news includes the highly anticipated start of South Carolina’s tax-free weekend, which runs August 1 through 3. Shoppers across the state are taking advantage of waived sales tax on school supplies, clothing, and computers—a boost for families and local retailers gearing up for the new school year. On the infrastructure side, the legislature’s rural investment is expected to shape both public safety and economic growth, as towns prepare to update aging water mains, sewer lines, and pump stations. Education remains a hot topic as well, with ongoing debates about funding and priorities in public schools, further fueled by lingering questions over federal relief allocations and their impact on renovation timelines.

    Listeners should also take note of the winning numbers from the August 2 South Carolina lottery draw, which brings hope and excitement to many across the state, as announced by WLTX.

    Looking ahead, all eyes will be on the next round of RIA infrastructure grants and seeing how political campaigns develop as the 2026 gubernatorial primaries approach. Plus, local economies and communities will be watching for any further ripple effects of national education policy decisions and ongoing legislative debates over zoning and development.

    Thank you for tuning in and don’t forget to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs

    For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai
    Más Menos
    3 m