AGP Executive Report

Road-Trip Safety & Travel Timing: With Labor Day travel ramping up, Clover police are joining “Saturation Saturday” to crack down on impaired driving and remind drivers that impairment isn’t just alcohol. Local Alerts for Drivers: Beaufort County is investigating a hit-and-run that seriously injured a bicyclist on U.S. 21 near Sea Island Park. Weekend Events for Visitors: The Savannah Bananas bring “Banana Ball” to Gillette Stadium in Foxboro this weekend, with a pre-party in the plaza starting at 2 p.m. Sports Schedules That Drive Travel: Clemson released its 2026-27 men’s basketball non-conference slate, including the Maui Invitational and a home-and-home with TCU. State Park Access Upgrade: A renovated Wire Pasture access point on the Lumber River near Maxton opens with a new visitor center, picnic areas, parking, and a short hiking trail. Family-Friendly Campus Plans: South Carolina State football returns to Oliver C. Dawson Stadium Saturday for a whiteout opener vs. Savannah State, with clear bag rules and ticketed campus entry.

Concert & Safety: J. Cole canceled his Sacramento show at Golden 1 Center hours before doors after a touring crew member died in a fatal big rig crash on I-5 in Yolo County; officials say the semi overturned while hauling show equipment, and ticket buyers are set for automatic refunds. Local Health & Growth: Novant Health is moving through Bluffton’s approvals for a planned $320M, full-service acute-care hospital, aiming to reduce how far residents must travel for care. Lowcountry Preservation: Charleston County extended a 24-month moratorium to protect four historic communities, giving residents more time to fight major subdivision changes. Travel Planning (Regional): A Georgia-focused Labor Day getaway list highlights seven destinations within about four hours of Atlanta, including Greenville, SC, for quick outdoor and downtown escapes. Rideshare Tips: A safety guide urges South Carolinians to verify vehicle details, follow the route, and keep personal info private when using Uber or Lyft. Outdoors & Fishing Economy: After Tropical Storm Helene reshaped Western North Carolina trout habitat, scientists and anglers are still tracking how streams and the fishing economy are adjusting.

Rideshare Safety: A South Carolina college student was killed after getting into the wrong car she thought was an Uber/Lyft, and a new guide urges riders to wait indoors, verify the vehicle and plate, and track the route before getting in. School Security: Lexington County deputies say two middle school students were charged after a knife and a loaded handgun were found in separate backpacks at Carolina Springs Middle School. Cruise Travel: Norwegian Cruise Line is celebrating completion of a new Delaware River cruise terminal in Philadelphia, a convenience boost for South Carolina travelers used to driving to ports. Local Tourism & Events: Warpath Landing on Lake Keowee is temporarily closed, with alternate public access points listed for boaters and anglers. Myrtle Beach Netflix Spotlight: Netflix’s “Death of the Pastor’s Wife” continues to draw attention to the case involving Solid Rock Church pastor John-Paul “JP” Miller and his wife, Mica Miller. Statewide Money Finder: South Carolina Treasurer Curtis Loftis reports a record $52M+ in returned unclaimed property. Beauty Retail: Target will launch its Target Beauty Studio in five South Carolina stores after ending its Ulta partnership.

Infrastructure & Jobs: South Carolina’s transportation, broadband, water and resilience projects are projected to generate nearly 140,000 permanent jobs over the next decade, with $66.7B in statewide economic impact through FY 2028. Coastal Cleanup: Bluffton is calling for volunteers for the 37th Beach Sweep/River Sweep on Sept. 19 along the May River, with supplies, coffee and lunch provided. Beach & Water Safety: Coastal Carolina University student Kalina Trent died after a hit-and-run while crossing Highway 544, renewing calls for safer pedestrian conditions near campus. Public Health: South Carolina health officials report two new West Nile virus outbreaks in the Midlands and Lowcountry and urge residents to eliminate standing water and reduce mosquito exposure. Tourism & Film: “Outer Banks” has spent years filming in Charleston, with the film commission citing major local spending and hiring impacts. Lodging Spotlight: Daufuskie Island vacation rental company JonBie Maison earned a 2026 Best of South Carolina Regional Award for helping visitors navigate the island’s car-free logistics. Nature for Travelers: Monarch migration messaging highlights South Carolina as a key stopover—support pollinator-friendly habitats to help butterflies along the way.

Border Safety Push: Georgia and South Carolina agencies kicked off the 35th annual “Hands Across the Border” DUI enforcement campaign in Savannah, aiming to cut drunk and drugged driving deaths across the region. Conservation Leadership: The S.C. Coastal Conservation League announced Megan Desrosiers will return to lead the nonprofit in January, bringing fresh momentum to protect coastal areas and rural communities. Senate Race With Travel Ties: Sen. Darline Graham won South Carolina’s GOP Senate runoff, setting up a November matchup with Dr. Annie Andrews—an outcome driven by President Trump’s backing and a major Myrtle Beach rally. Family-Friendly Transparency: A new South Carolina Child Care website lets parents check licensing status, inspection history, and background screening details before choosing a daycare. Tourism & Retail Notes: Target is replacing departing Ulta studios with its own upscale “Beauty Studio” in five SC stores starting Sept. 10, including Greenville. Local Life & Leisure: A Moncks Corner ice cream shop owner survived a lightning strike and launched a “Thunderstruck” flavor; and a church in Latta held “Gas for God” to help residents travel for groceries after an IGA closure. Travel Deals: A report ranks Denver International Airport among the best for domestic flight deals, with Charleston noted for lowest round-trip economy pricing.

South Carolina Politics: Sen. Darline Graham won the GOP Senate runoff Tuesday, defeating Rep. Ralph Norman 52.5%–47.6% and securing the nomination to replace her late brother, Lindsey Graham, in November—an outcome widely credited to President Donald Trump’s heavy, hands-on push. Local Travel & Tourism: Myrtle Beach’s Pirates Voyage and the broader Palmetto State spotlight Dolly Parton’s legacy after her death at 80, including her long-running Imagination Library impact on South Carolina children and her role in helping shape the area as an entertainment destination. Meetings & Events: A new roundup highlights why South Carolina is leaning into group travel, pointing to upgrades and new venues across coastal hubs like Myrtle Beach and Charleston. Outdoor & Family Fun: CityGolf USA announced Tom Fazio Design Technologies will create indoor golf course experiences for its first location, with simulated holes and real turf greens. Safety Watch: A hit-and-run killed a pedestrian in Georgetown County Tuesday night; authorities are still seeking the vehicle.

South Carolina Politics: Darline Graham won the GOP Senate runoff Tuesday, beating Ralph Norman 52.4%–47.6% to take her late brother Lindsey Graham’s seat on the Nov. 3 ballot, with President Donald Trump’s full-throated backing and a late super PAC push credited for overcoming concerns about her inexperience. Tourism & Travel: A Cayce tourism boost is on the way—international troll-sculptor Thomas Dambo will visit this weekend for an invite-only planning event, with the first South Carolina installation expected to start in spring 2027. Cross-Border Travel: Canada’s 50% retaliatory tariffs on hundreds of U.S. goods are already hitting travel—Canadian visits to Florida fell sharply, and Myrtle Beach, S.C. topped a list of metro areas seeing the biggest declines. Local Life & Safety: Myrtle Beach police released a sketch seeking help identifying a man found dead on U.S. Highway 501. Road Trip Costs: GasBuddy reports Greenwood County’s lowest midgrade price at $3.75 for the week ending Aug. 15.

South Carolina Politics: Voters head to the polls Tuesday for a special GOP Senate runoff in the Palmetto State, choosing between Sen. Darline Graham and Rep. Ralph Norman to replace the late Lindsey Graham on the November ballot; the race is tightly focused on whether President Trump’s endorsement can carry a political newcomer, with polls open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. and ID required. Local Growth & Roads: Greenville City Council approved the first reading of a 135-acre Woodruff Road annexation near I-385, setting up a second vote and potentially shaping future development along a major corridor. Space & Travel Views: A SpaceX Falcon 9 launch produced a bright “space jellyfish” plume visible across the Southeast, including the South Carolina Lowcountry, offering a rare early-morning sky show for travelers and locals. Health Alert (Travel Safety): A Louisiana 8-year-old died after infection with the rare brain-eating amoeba Naegleria fowleri, which thrives in warm freshwater—another reminder to be cautious with hot-season water activities. Community & Tourism Notes: Myrtle Beach-area visitors and locals are also watching the fallout from the runoff and related campaign activity, while South Carolina’s tourism economy continues to feel pressure from broader trade and policy uncertainty.

Road & Growth: Greenville City Council gave initial approval to annex 135 acres along Woodruff Road and I-385, including 19 commercial parcels such as the 60-acre Merovan Business Center—set to be the city’s largest annexation to date. Highway Watch: President Trump said federal funding will be secured for Myrtle Beach’s I-73, though SCDOT says it’s still waiting for full funding to start work. Beach & Travel Biz: Hilton Grand Vacations announced Ocean Reserve, a new oceanfront Myrtle Beach property and its fourth HGV site there. Tourism Safety & Health: Rabies exposures are rising in the CSRA, with treatment costs now often falling on patients; officials warn about the financial hit without insurance. Consumer Scam Radar: Bluffton and Camden each logged four BBB Scam Tracker reports in July, with online purchase scams driving losses. Travel-Stop Culture: Buc-ee’s CEO signaled expansion may favor “conservative, business-friendly” states, while Jeff’s Bagel Run plans 11 new locations this fall across five states. Local Politics (Runoff): South Carolina’s GOP Senate runoff is Tuesday, with Darline Graham and Ralph Norman battling for the seat—while Trump’s endorsement is front and center.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions: Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority warned that ships violating Iranian transit protocols could face fines, detention, or confiscation, while Iran’s security committee approved a plan to charge fees for navigation and related services—coming as President Trump again called the waterway “American territory.” Myrtle Beach Luxury Boom: The Grand Strand’s upscale real estate market is heating up, with luxury buyers and investors increasingly drawn by lower taxes and insurance compared with other coastal hotspots. South Carolina Politics & Travel Impact: Trump urged GOP voters in South Carolina to “pretend” he’s on the ballot as the Darline Graham–Ralph Norman Senate runoff tightens, with the campaign spotlight on Myrtle Beach. Folly Beach Surf Safety: A MUSC neurosurgery resident is studying surfing-related head and spinal injuries at Folly Beach and points to prevention strategies for waveside trauma. Road Safety: Rock band Buckcherry confirmed its tour bus was involved in a fatal multi-vehicle crash on I-26 in Spartanburg County; band members and crew were unharmed. Charleston Schools: Candidate filings closed for the Nov. 3 Charleston County School Board election, with 15 running for five seats.

Upstate Politics: Dr. Annie Andrews stopped in Spartanburg at the Beacon Drive-In, pitching her healthcare-and-corruption message ahead of TV ads. GOP Senate Runoff: President Trump rallied in Myrtle Beach for Darline Graham, while Tim Scott defended her after a national-security debate gaffe; Ralph Norman pressed “proven conservative” credentials. Myrtle Beach Costs: A closer look at retiring on $2,500 a month highlights how coastal insurance can make or break the plan. Insurance Pressure: South Carolina homeowners insurance is getting squeezed, with Myrtle Beach premiums far higher than inland areas. Gas Watch: Prices stayed volatile—national regular hit $4.10, and Lexington County’s lowest E15 and midgrade deals were tracked. Travel Safety: A fatal I-26 crash involving Buckcherry’s tour bus killed one person; the band and crew were unharmed. Coastal Hazard Story: A stranger helped rescue a 10-year-old from a rip current off Myrtle Beach, linking two families. Road Work: I-26 lane closures in Berkeley County are set for overnight maintenance. Wildfire Disruption (Not SC): A human-caused wildfire near Reno forced large-scale evacuations.

South Carolina Politics: President Trump rallied in Myrtle Beach for Sen. Darline Graham ahead of the Aug. 25 GOP runoff, framing it as a test of his influence and warning Democrats could “impeach” him if they win in November. Campaign Trail: Pete Buttigieg returned to South Carolina to court Black voters, pointing to federal dollars he helped bring to the state and drawing a warmer reception than in 2020. Road Safety: Rock band Buckcherry’s tour bus was involved in a fatal multi-vehicle crash on I-26 near Spartanburg; the band says members and crew were unharmed, but one person died. Local Infrastructure: SCDOT plans temporary daytime lane closures on US 321 in Jasper County (6:30 a.m.–8 p.m., Aug. 24–28) for widening work. Family & Community: Jasper County’s population jumped 6% (2024–2025), driving plans for more parks, trails, and youth recreation. Travel & Leisure: Conway, S.C., is a Hallmark “Merriest Christmas Town” finalist, with public voting open and a chance to host a future Christmas movie filming. Sports: Furman travels to Columbia to face South Carolina in women’s soccer, with the match streamed on SEC Network+. Public Safety (Beach): A 10-year-old was rescued from a rip current off Myrtle Beach by a stranger who jumped in to help.

South Carolina Politics & Campaign Trail: President Trump rallied in Myrtle Beach for Sen. Darline Graham ahead of the Aug. 25 GOP runoff, urging voters to “pretend” he’s on the ballot and warning they’ll “lose everything” if Democrats take Congress; the event also included a heckler escorted out after wearing a “Kill Your Local Pedophile” shirt. White House Personnel: Outgoing press secretary Karoline Leavitt says she’ll step down at month’s end but remain in Trump orbit, returning to the Trump-aligned super PAC MAGA Inc. Local Public Safety: A house fire in Horry County’s Little River displaced three people; the cause is under investigation. Travel-Adjacent Spotlight: Conway, S.C., is a Hallmark “Merriest Christmas Town” finalist, and Myrtle Beach-area crews handled a rare 10-foot python sighting. Community & Sports: Furman women’s soccer heads to Columbia to face South Carolina at 6 p.m. Roadside Tragedy: A woman died after falling off a golf cart in Surfside Beach; investigators are looking into the circumstances.

Myrtle Beach Rally & SC Politics: President Trump campaigned in Myrtle Beach for Sen. Darline Graham ahead of the Aug. 25 GOP runoff, urging voters to “pretend” he’s on the ballot to boost turnout and firing back after a protester interrupted him. Road-to-Tourism Infrastructure: At the same rally, Trump said I-73 is “all funded” and “ready to go,” reviving hopes for the long-stalled interstate link that would better connect the Grand Strand to North Carolina. Coastal Fishing Rules: Sullivan’s Island considered a ban on drone-assisted shore fishing, but state wildlife officials pushed back, saying similar local bans should be reconsidered. Wildlife Surprise: A 10-foot python was spotted and captured in a South Carolina neighborhood, with handlers securing it for care. Travel Culture Spotlight: Southern Living highlighted Charleston’s Gibbes Museum as a top regional art stop, and a separate study ranked Charleston International among U.S. airports with strong domestic flight deals. Tech in Classrooms (Charleston): Local educators piloted AI literacy training, using a “map demo” to show how chatbots can generate obvious errors.

Myrtle Beach Rally & Runoff Politics: President Trump crisscrossed South Carolina’s coast to boost appointed Sen. Darline Graham in her Aug. 25 GOP runoff against Ralph Norman, with Gov. Henry McMaster and other top Republicans backing her—while Trump also joked to supporters to “pretend” he’s on the ballot. Security & Crowd Disruption: Two protesters were escorted out of the Myrtle Beach Convention Center after heckling, including one wearing a “Kill Your Local Pedophile” shirt; Trump quipped the person would be “scolded because mom is voting for us.” Local Infrastructure Promise: Trump told the crowd he would fund I-73 expansion tied to the Grand Strand’s long-running push to connect the region to the interstate network. Food Safety Recall: Publix frozen berries linked to an E. coli outbreak were upgraded to the FDA’s highest-risk recall level (Class I), with illnesses reported in multiple states. Travel/Weekend Planning: YoCo Taste Trail returns in York County, and I-77 bridge-deck repairs bring more lane closures starting Sunday night. Sports & Community: A South Carolina runner won an age-group title in a 5K, and Musgrove Mill State Historic Site reopened with new interactive displays.

South Carolina Politics & Campaigns: President Trump is set to rally in Myrtle Beach on Friday to boost Sen. Darline Graham ahead of the Aug. 25 GOP Senate runoff against Rep. Ralph Norman, with early voting already underway and the race hinging on whether Trump’s endorsement can carry a first-time candidate after a debate misstep on national security. Local Voting Watch: Early voting runs through Friday, with thousands already casting ballots across Upstate counties, and the winner will face Democrat Dr. Annie Andrews in November. Travel & Tourism Safety: A Myrtle Beach-area child drowning death has renewed calls for better water safety education and wider access to swim lessons. Education & Tech for Families: Charleston-area schools are rolling out AI literacy by letting students test chatbots’ mistakes—like a “map of the world” demo full of errors—so kids learn not to blindly trust them. Consumer Fraud: Georgetown tied for 29th statewide in July scam reports, with three reports logged and $188.85 in documented losses. Air Travel: TSA Gold+ is launching at Charleston International first, signaling more public-private airport security partnerships.