Laurens County Citizens for Land Use and Zoning Task Force to Meet February 26

  February 25, 2026

The Laurens County Citizens for Land Use and Zoning Task Force will hold its next meeting on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Hillcrest Complex East, located at 105 Bolt Drive in Laurens. The meeting will be led by Chairman Bell and will include routine business items such as approval of the…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: government, on-the-move

Echoes & Insights: The Vision That Built a Town — William Plumer Jacobs and Clinton’s Enduring Legacy

  February 25, 2026

FEBRUARY 2026 COLUMN  Echoes & Insights: The Laurens County Series. Readers are invited to journey through the history of Laurens County, uncovering the stories, places, and people that have shaped our community. This series is designed to preserve history while sparking conversation about how it continues to guide us today. We’d like to thank our Founding…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: echoes-insights, headlines, on-the-move

South Carolina’s Hands-Free Driving Law Enforcement Begins as Warning Period Nears End

  February 25, 2026

South Carolina’s Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act, which took effect September 1, 2025, is entering a new phase this week as law enforcement shifts from warnings to full enforcement with fines for violations. For the past six months, officers across the state have been issuing warnings to educate drivers about the law’s requirements. That grace…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: headlines, law, on-the-move

TD Bank offers small business owners in Greenville’s thriving market four key tips for finding the right banking partner

  February 25, 2026

Greenville has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the Southeast’s fastest-growing and most entrepreneurial cities, creating both tremendous opportunity and intensifying challenges for local small businesses — from rising operating costs to increased competition for talent and real estate. In this environment, having a strong financial relationship is more critical than ever. Chris Ward,…

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Posted in: upstatebizsc   Category: banking-and-finance, on-the-move

Tropical Smoothie Cafe to open at Aston’s Verdae Village

  February 25, 2026

National fast-casual brand bringing fresh smoothies and food to growing Greenville retail destination Aston announced that Tropical Smoothie Cafe will open a new location at Verdae Village, bringing its signature smoothies, wraps, flatbreads, and bowls to the growing Greenville retail destination. The nationally recognized fast-casual brand will introduce a fresh, health-focused dining option to the…

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Posted in: upstatebizsc   Category: food, on-the-move

Taking time to remember

  February 25, 2026

By Jeff Becraft   Last weekend, Brenda and I got to go to Texas to see the three grandkids there… and see their parents. We flew back into Charlotte on Tuesday. Once we got our luggage and got in the car and we are trying to get out of Charlotte because we were really close…

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Posted in: midlandsbiz   Category: life, on-the-move

Blue Granite announces Bruce Haas as Director of Operations for Midlands region

  February 25, 2026

Blue Granite Water Company announced that Bruce Haas has been named Director of Operations for its Midlands region, reinforcing the company’s continued commitment to reliable, compliant, and safe water and wastewater service across central South Carolina. In this role, Haas will oversee Blue Granite’s water and wastewater operations throughout the Midlands, providing leadership across treatment…

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Posted in: midlandsbiz   Category: employment, environmental, on-the-move, utilities

Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day 2026 takes place at the State House

  February 25, 2026

More than 30 young women in elementary, middle and high school from across South Carolina gathered Tuesday, Feb. 24, at the South Carolina State House for Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day. The American Council of Engineering Companies of South Carolina (ACEC-SC), South Carolina Society of Professional Engineers (SCSPE), the Society of Women Engineers (SWE)…

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Posted in: lowcountrybizsc, midlandsbiz, upstatebizsc   Category: engineering, on-the-move, teens-and-young-adult, transportation

United Way of Pickens County recognizes educators at Pickens County school board meeting

  February 25, 2026

United Way of Pickens County recognized a group of outstanding educators during the February 23 meeting of the School District of Pickens County Board of Trustees. The educators were honored as members of The Inaugural Circle of Excellence Cohort, a recognition that celebrates leadership and commitment shown through the School District of Pickens County United…

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Posted in: upstatebizsc   Category: education, on-the-move

The Revolution in South Carolina

  February 25, 2026

With all the talk about what happened 250 years or so ago, you’ve probably heard that more of the American Revolution’s battles were fought in South Carolina than in any other state (or colony, depending on your point of view). Some scholars and enthusiasts express doubt about that. Rick Wise sweeps their doubt aside. A…

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Posted in: midlandsbiz   Category: life, military, on-the-move

Coldwell Banker Caine adds three new agents in Greenville

  February 25, 2026

Coldwell Banker Caine welcomed Genine Baldassarra, Estefania Leyva, and Braxton Ricker as real estate agents in its Greenville office. Genine Baldassarra brings a relationship-driven approach rooted in trust, transparency, and genuine connection. Having lived in the Upstate for nearly a decade, she is passionate about helping individuals and families find not just a house, but…

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Posted in: upstatebizsc   Category: employment, local-industry, on-the-move, residential-real-estate

Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC attorney named a Top 40 Under 40 Civil Plaintiff Attorney in South Carolina

  February 25, 2026

William H. Yarborough, Jr., a personal injury attorney at Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC, was named a Top 40 Under 40 Civil Plaintiff Attorney in South Carolina by The National Trial Lawyers. Yarborough was also recognized in two specialty associations: Top 10 Trucking Trial Lawyers and Top 25 Motor Vehicle Trial Lawyers in South Carolina. The…

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Posted in: midlandsbiz   Category: law, on-the-move

17th Annual Women’s Empowerment Conference

  February 25, 2026

The Women’s Empowerment Conference has partnered with AnMed Health, Tim Drummond State Farm Agency, and Foothills Community Health Care to host the 17th Annual Women’s Empowerment Conference. All women are invited to attend this POWERFUL event on Saturday, March 14th at the Westside Community Center. Doors open at 8:00 AM. The Westside Community Center is…

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Posted in: upstatebizsc   Category: churches, education, festivals-special-events, non-profit, on-the-move, retail

A Conversation with Karen Morello, Director of the Swamp Fox Players performance of

  February 25, 2026

By Karen Owens, Publisher Next Thursday the latest theatrical offering from the Swamp Fox Players is a musical comedy entitled Nunsense. I had the opportunity to speak with Karen Morello, the show’s director, about the play, her background in theatre and why you best order your tickets soon. Georgetown SC Gazette: Tell me about how…

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Posted in: georgetown-sc-gazette   Category: entertainment, music, on-the-move, the-arts

Mauldin Community Goes “Freezin’ for a Reason” at Annual Polar Plunge

  February 25, 2026

It may have been cold outside, but community spirit was on full display as the Mauldin Police Department partnered with Greenville County Rec to host this year’s Polar Plunge at 7th Inning Splash Waterpark. Held February 21, the event brought together families, first responders, local leaders and plenty of brave “plungers” willing to jump into…

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Posted in: golden-strip-news   Category: festivals-special-events, health-wellness, non-profit, on-the-move, public-safety

Greenville Tech Foundation adds three industry leaders to board of directors

  February 25, 2026

The Greenville Tech Foundation, the philanthropic partner of Greenville Technical College, has appointed Brandon Scott, Jarrell Hall, and Hunter Gibson to its board of directors, adding senior leaders from key industries helping drive the Upstate economy. As the Foundation continues to invest in initiatives that prepare a skilled workforce, it remains focused on engaging industry…

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Posted in: upstatebizsc   Category: education, on-the-move

Mauldin’s Playoff Run Ends in Hard-Fought Battle

  February 25, 2026

The postseason came to a close for the Mauldin High School boys basketball team this week after a tough playoff loss that capped off an otherwise competitive season. Facing strong opposition on the road, the Mavericks battled from start to finish but were unable to overcome key stretches that ultimately decided the game. Despite the…

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Posted in: golden-strip-news   Category: sports

Habitat Greenville’s Credit Union Build starts on Sturtevant

  February 25, 2026

Representatives and volunteers from 11 local credit unions gathered on Sturtevant Street to raise a wall, but more importantly uplift a family on their path to homeownership. “This is the second year of the Credit Union Build,” said LaTonya Phillips, CEO and President of Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County. “And it is another shining…

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Posted in: upstatebizsc   Category: non-profit, on-the-move, residential-real-estate

Vendors Wanted for Popular Blues Festival and Farmers Market in Fountain Inn

  February 25, 2026

Local makers, food trucks, artists, and small businesses have a fresh opportunity to get in front of thousands of visitors this spring and summer. Applications are now open for vendors interested in participating in the annual Mac Arnold Blues Festival and the seasonal Fountain Inn Farmers Market. Organizers say both events continue to grow each…

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Posted in: golden-strip-news   Category: headlines, music

IMPH launches Foundations for Success Taskforce

  February 25, 2026

The South Carolina Institute of Medicine and Public Health (IMPH), an independent, nonprofit organization working to collectively inform policy to improve health and health care in South Carolina, is launching a taskforce focused on reducing suspensions and expulsions of early learners (3k – 1st Grade). This statewide planning process, led by Taskforce Chair and former…

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Posted in: lowcountrybizsc, midlandsbiz, georgetown-sc-gazette, golden-strip-news, upstatebizsc, laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, non-profit, on-the-move

SeamonWhiteside welcomes six new shareholders, reinforcing growth and leadership across the Carolinas

  February 25, 2026

SeamonWhiteside (SW+), a full-service site design firm with offices throughout the Carolinas, announced the elevation of six key leaders to shareholder, a strategic expansion of the firm’s ownership as it scales operations across the Carolinas. The move recognizes the contributions of the leaders who have helped shape the firm’s growth, culture, and long-term direction. The…

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Posted in: lowcountrybizsc, upstatebizsc   Category: architecture, construction, engineering, on-the-move

Carolinas Credit Union League promotes Billy Boylston to Chief Advocacy Officer

  February 25, 2026

The Carolinas Credit Union League (CCUL) has promoted Billy Boylston to Chief Advocacy Officer, recognizing his more than a decade of leadership advancing the League’s state and federal advocacy priorities across the Carolinas. Boylston joined CCUL in 2013 and most recently served as senior vice president of advocacy, where he directed the League’s governmental affairs…

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Posted in: midlandsbiz   Category: banking-and-finance, on-the-move

The Southern Bank appoints Rob Crowe as Senior Vice President and Grand Strand Market President

  February 25, 2026

The Southern Bank, a South Carolina- and Georgia-based community bank, announced the appointment of Rob Crowe as Senior Vice President and Grand Strand Market President. This key leadership hire reflects the bank’s continued commitment to growth and long-term investment in the Myrtle Beach and Grand Strand markets. Crowe will be based at The Southern Bank’s…

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Posted in: lowcountrybizsc   Category: banking-and-finance, on-the-move

Blue Granite Water Company announces regional leadership appointments in the Upstate and Rock Hill

  February 25, 2026

Danny Smith Named Area Manager for Anderson and Simpsonville, Mike Davis Promoted to Director of Operations Blue Granite Water Company announced key leadership appointments that reinforce its commitment to improving the utility for the benefit of its customers to provide reliable, compliant, and safe water and wastewater operations across South Carolina. Danny Smith has been…

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Posted in: midlandsbiz, upstatebizsc   Category: environmental, on-the-move, utilities

Greenville Convention Center names Scott Davis, Dee Dee Holden and Steve Moran to key leadership positions

  February 25, 2026

Greenville Convention Center announced the promotion of three valued team members to leadership positions, recognizing their dedication, expertise, and contributions to the organization’s continued success. Scott Davis has been promoted to Director of Events. With 28 years of service at the Greenville Convention Center, Davis will oversee all aspects of event service delivery for the…

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Posted in: upstatebizsc   Category: employment, local-industry, on-the-move

Mauldin Approves $2 Per-Ticket Facility Fee for Events at GE Vernova Park

  February 24, 2026

The City of Mauldin has officially approved a new $2 per-ticket facility fee for events held at GE Vernova Park, marking another step in the city’s ongoing effort to support and sustain its growing entertainment venue. The decision, reported by Greenville Journal, was finalized during a recent City Council meeting. The fee will apply to…

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Posted in: golden-strip-news   Category: economic-development, government, on-the-move

Sweet Success: Chocolate Artworks Named 2026 Business of the Year in Mauldin

  February 24, 2026

In a celebration of local entrepreneurship and community spirit, Chocolate Artworks has been officially recognized as the 2026 Business of the Year by the Rotary Club of Mauldin. The announcement highlights the shop’s rapid growth and its unwavering commitment to excellence in the Golden Strip. A Mission of Excellence and Faith Located in the heart…

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Posted in: golden-strip-news   Category: entrepreneurship, food, on-the-move, restaurant, retail

Volunteers Set to Clean Up Conestee Nature Preserve

  February 24, 2026

The beauty of the Reedy River comes with a recurring challenge: the debris that washes downstream after the Upstate’s heavy spring rains. On Saturday, March 7, a dedicated team of “Park Heroes” and local volunteers will gather at Conestee Nature Preserve for a massive community litter sweep. A Mission for the Watershed As a critical…

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Posted in: golden-strip-news   Category: home-remodel, on-the-move, public-safety

Grace and Strength Cornerstone Ballet Announces 2026 Summer Registration

  February 24, 2026

As the spring recital season approaches, Cornerstone Ballet is already looking ahead to the warmer months. The studio, located at 116 Pride Drive, has officially announced that registration for its Summer 2026 programs will open on March 1st. Known for its mission of building strong dancers from the inside out, Cornerstone Ballets summer offerings are…

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Posted in: golden-strip-news   Category: on-the-move, teens-and-young-adult, the-arts

Local Goods and Community Vibes: The Warehouse Market Returns to Downtown Simpsonville

  February 24, 2026

The Trade Street district is buzzing with new energy as the Warehouse at Vaughn’s—recently rebranded as Vaughn’s Food Hall—officially kicks off its 2026 outdoor market season. The market, which has become a staple for local residents, is back to transforming the venue’s expansive “Backyard” into a vibrant hub for local artisans, farmers, and small business…

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Posted in: golden-strip-news   Category: entertainment, festivals-special-events, food, on-the-move

Building the Future Innovation and Opportunity at Golden Strip Career Center

  February 24, 2026

As the demand for skilled professionals continues to climb across the Upstate, the Golden Strip Career Center is proving to be a powerhouse of preparation. With the 2026-2027 application window currently open, the center is shining a spotlight on how its hands-on programs are bridging the gap between high school and high-demand careers. A New…

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Posted in: golden-strip-news   Category: education, headlines, on-the-move, technology, teens-and-young-adult

Public Hearing Scheduled in Mauldin on Greenville County Redevelopment Authority Plan

  February 24, 2026

Residents in Mauldin will have an opportunity next month to weigh in on a proposed redevelopment plan that could impact housing and community development efforts across the area. The City of Mauldin has announced that a public hearing and comment period regarding the Greenville County Redevelopment Authority will take place during its City Council meeting…

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Posted in: golden-strip-news   Category: economic-development, government

Laurens Electric Sends Nine Local Students on Leadership Trips to Washington and Columbia

  February 24, 2026

Six local high school juniors and three sophomores are the winners of expense paid trips this summer, sponsored by Laurens Electric Cooperative. 11th graders Sara Beth Field of Laurens, Silas Hall and Kourtnee Henderson of Simpsonville, Amirah Hill of Clinton, Beni Igisigo of Spartanburg, and Aaliyah Scott of Cross Hill will attend the Washington D.C.…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: on-the-move, utilities

Clinton Family YMCA to Host 47th Annual Youth/Community Prayer Breakfast March 3–5

  February 24, 2026

The Clinton Family YMCA will host its 47th Annual Youth/Community Prayer Breakfast from March 3 through March 5, 2026, at Broad Street United Methodist Church. Each morning’s program will begin at 7:00 a.m., continuing a long-standing tradition that brings together students, families, community leaders, and residents for a time of inspiration, reflection, and fellowship. Over…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: headlines, on-the-move

Piedmont Technical College Electric Vehicle Curriculum Team receives A. Wade Martin Innovation Team of the Year Award

  February 24, 2026

In recognition of its impressive accomplishments, the Piedmont Technical College (PTC) Electric Vehicle Curriculum Team received the A. Wade Martin Innovation Team of the Year Award. The team – consisting of Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Keli Fewox, Dean of Engineering and Industrial Technology Christina Knight, Automotive Technology Program Director Gerald Sartin and Automotive…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

Laurens County School District 55 Awarded $7,000 Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Grant

  February 24, 2026

Laurens County School District 55 (LCSD 55) is proud to announce it has been awarded a $7,000 Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Grant sponsored by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture. This funding will enhance the District’s Student Nutrition Program and directly supports LCSD 55’s commitment to fostering an A+ Atmosphere as part of Building a…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

New Book Celebrates Laurens County Museum’s Legacy; Author Peggy Cwiakala to Hold March 21 Signing

  February 24, 2026

The Laurens County Museum has announced the release of a new book honoring the history and impact of one of the county’s most treasured institutions. A South Carolina Jewel: Celebrating the Laurens County Museum by local author Peggy Cwiakala is now available for purchase at the museum. The publication chronicles the museum’s evolution and highlights…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: on-the-move

Former Obama Adviser Ben Rhodes to Speak at Presbyterian College March 5

  February 24, 2026

The Samuel Calvin Waters Lecture in Political Science will conclude Presbyterian College’s 2025–26 lecture series on March 5 with a keynote address by Ben Rhodes, former deputy national security advisor to President Barack Obama and a bestselling author on American foreign policy. Rhodes will speak at 7 p.m. in Edmunds Hall, offering what organizers describe…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

City of Laurens Announces State of the City Address & Awards Presentation — Nominations Now Open

  February 24, 2026

The City of Laurens will host its annual State of the City Address and Awards Presentation on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, offering residents an opportunity to hear about the city’s progress, priorities, and vision for the year ahead while honoring those who make a meaningful difference in the community. As part of the event, the…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: government, on-the-move

New State Law Requires Alcohol Server Certification by March 2 — Local Businesses Urged to Prepare

  February 24, 2026

Restaurants, caterers, bars, event venues, and mobile bartending services across Laurens County face a fast-approaching compliance deadline as South Carolina begins enforcement of its new mandatory alcohol server training law on March 2, 2026. The requirement stems from legislation passed in 2025 aimed at improving alcohol safety, reducing liability risks, and standardizing responsible service practices…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: entertainment, law, on-the-move

Laurens County First Steps Now Accepting Participating Organizations and Food Vendors for Child Abuse Prevention Event

  February 24, 2026

Laurens County First Steps is pleased to announce that registration is now open for community organizations, local businesses, and food vendors interested in participating in the upcoming Child Abuse Prevention & Celebrating Safe Children Event, scheduled for Thursday, April 23, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at The Ridge at Laurens, 301 Exchange Road, Laurens,…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: day-care, education, festivals-special-events, life, non-profit, on-the-move

From Diploma to DC: Lander Alumna Avila-Cabrera Returns to Nation’s Capital for First Career

  February 24, 2026

If one is looking for evidence that the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences at Lander University is preparing its students for lives of public service, they should look no further than to the nation’s capital. There, Lander students regularly take part in the Washington Semester Program, which includes completing college coursework while also…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: education, on-the-move

Laurens County Democratic Party Announces County Convention Keynote Speakers Highlighting Leadership, Representation, and Community Commitment

  February 24, 2026

The Laurens County Democratic Party is proud to announce an exciting lineup of speakers for its County Convention on March 14, 2026 at the Laurens County Agriculture Center, featuring two dynamic leaders shaping the future of South Carolina politics. The keynote speaker will be Christale Spain, Chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party. Spain made…

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Posted in: laurenscountybuzz   Category: on-the-move, politics

2026 Italian American Heritage Festival Canceled in Fountain Inn

  February 24, 2026

Main Street Fountain Inn announced this week that the 2026 Italian American Heritage Festival, originally scheduled for April 18, has been canceled. The decision was communicated by the Italian American Heritage Festival Committee, which independently organizes the annual event. While the City of Fountain Inn has proudly supported the festival in years past, organizers clarified…

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Posted in: golden-strip-news   Category: festivals-special-events, on-the-move

Marsha Kelso joins Saluda River Club

  February 24, 2026

Lifestone Homes announced that Marsha Kelso has joined the sales team at Saluda River Club. With more than 21 years’ experience in the South Carolina Real Estate industry, Marsha is a fervent advocate for her clients and an expert at new home construction with a sophisticated eye for interior design. Lifestone Homes President Andy White…

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Posted in: midlandsbiz   Category: on-the-move, residential-real-estate

What is pulmonary embolism and how to recognize the signs?

  February 24, 2026

By Cassidy Alexander, Tidelands Health via MyCarolinaLife.com The recent death of actress Catherine O’Hara was a shock to fans. The 71-year-old’s cause of death was a pulmonary embolism with cancer as the underlying cause. Pulmonary embolism is one of the most common cardiac problems in the world. It’s a blood clot that blocks and stops…

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Posted in: georgetown-sc-gazette   Category: health-wellness, health-care, on-the-move

SCAA Conference brings together aviation professionals to focus on the business of aviation

  February 24, 2026

More than 300 aviation professionals, airport leaders, and business partners  gathered at the Myrtle Beach Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes Feb. 11-13, 2026, for the  annual South Carolina Aviation Association (SCAA) Conference. This year’s theme, The Business of  Aviation, highlighted the strategic, operational, and economic impact of airports across the state. A…

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Posted in: lowcountrybizsc, upstatebizsc   Category: on-the-move, transportation

Board-certified orthopedic surgeon joins Tidelands Health

  February 24, 2026

Dr. Justin Head, a fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopedic surgeon, has joined Tidelands Health and is accepting new patients.   Dr. Head performs knee and hip replacement procedures, specializing in minimally invasive, robotic-assisted partial and total joint replacements. Trained in revision surgery, he also treats painful prior joint replacements and prosthetic joint infections. In addition, he provides care and treatment…

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Posted in: georgetown-sc-gazette   Category: health-wellness, health-care, on-the-move

Charleston County Council updates 2026 Transportation Sales Tax draft program and launches second phase of public input

  February 24, 2026

During a Special County Council meeting tonight, councilmembers voted to advance a revised working draft of a potential 2026 Transportation Sales Tax (TST) program, incorporating adjusted allocation amounts and a list of specific projects proposed for funding under the program. Under the draft program approved tonight (attached), funding would be structured as follows: Proposed Funding…

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Posted in: lowcountrybizsc   Category: government, on-the-move