Palmetto State

SC Applies For Lost Wages Assistance Grant

In response to the Coronavirus pandemic, recovery efforts to salvage the economic destruction are being made. The SC Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW), alongside Governor McMaster, plans to apply for the FEMA’s Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) program. The grant will await federal approval.

“Our state should be proud of the economic recovery efforts and the progress we have made to date, but we know that some of our citizens are still struggling in the wake of this pandemic,” explains McMaster. “We’ve chosen to participate in this program in a way that will provide additional unemployment relief from the federal government while maintaining our strong record of fiscal responsibility and protecting the interests of South Carolinians.”

Gov. McMaster authorized DEW to apply toward the federal aid via a letter. The grant itself was originally made by President Donald Trump as a means of compensating those unemployed due to the ongoing pandemic. When a state’s application is accepted, an additional weekly $300 in benefits per person will be added.

“We know there are citizens who are still in great need,” explains DEW Executive Director Dan Ellzey. “DEW has been testing changes in its benefits portal based upon guidance provided by the U.S. Department of Labor. If South Carolina is approved, we will work as quickly as possible with our vendor to get the application into the system.”

News

Trident Medical Center Completes New Medical Procedure

As the first in the Carolinas, Trident Medical Center is home to a new medical procedure. Electrophysiologist Darren Sidney, MD is the physician behind the next generation implant. Created to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with Atrial Fibrillation, Sidney successfully completed the surgery on a 71-year-old male.

Atrial Fibrillation, or AFiB for short, is a common heart disease that alters the heart’s ability to pump blood. Over 2.7 million people suffer from the quivering heartbeat that AFiB ensues. The issue behind an irregular heart pattern is that it can frequent blood clots, which cut off the air supply to the brain and in turn, lead to a stroke.

The implemented device LAAC is roughly the size of a quarter. Sidney operates once in order to implant the device. It remains completely unseen from the outside of the body. Once implanted, the device effectively reduces blood clots, eliminating the fear of a stroke occurring.

This new device is a huge step for those suffering from AFiB. With a success rate of 99% of patents no longer needing blood thinners a year post-surgery, it’s easy to say that this is a big win.

News

McMaster Pushes To Re-open Schools This Fall

On Wednesday, July 15th, Gov. Henry McMaster joined by his fellow Republican House and Senate leaders executively decided that SC schools will re-open for in-person teaching. This press statement comes as COVID-19 cases continue to surge in the state. The district schools are being pushed to re-open with the option to choose between virtual learning and face-to-face learning.

McMaster says that “the classroom is one of the safest places to be,” in response to fear over Coronavirus. These plans are being made as the state believes that virtual education is not enough. Each district ultimately can decide a plan for themselves, yet now there must be an option that includes sending kids to school five days a week. As of 2019, SC schools remain #48 in state education across the country. It’s likely that the recent changes in schooling could impact the education kids receive. “What we need to do is take every step at our disposal to get kids back to schools,” McMaster said.

With this push to re-open comes a push for start dates to be halted. McMaster asks that schools consider beginning classes after September 8th, in addition to creating options for online and in-person learning.

There has been no official statement from SC school boards regarding final decisions for the upcoming fall semester. In the next few weeks, it’s possible we will see districts announcing plans that rotate between in-person and online classes.

News

South Carolina Announces More Restrictions as COVID-19 Cases Rise

The SC case count for Coronavirus skyrockets to over 62,245 as of mid-July. In response to the large number of residents contracting the virus, the state announces more restrictions. Gov. Henry McMaster says, “We know that young adults who are rapidly contracting the virus and spreading it into our communities frequently congregate in late-night atmospheres which simply are not conducive to stopping its continued transmission.”

This late-night curfew on the sale of alcohol is to be implemented immediately. Restaurants and bars will no longer be allowed to converge past 11 p.m. This order omits alcohol sold at convenience or grocery stores. It’s merely a precaution meant to stop young people from spreading the disease at drinking establishments. As the disease weaves through the younger generation, it’s difficult to enforce social distancing. Because many adolescents do not show symptoms of the virus, this makes transmission much more likely.

As well as the late-night curfew, McMaster rolled out limited visitation to nursing homes on July 2nd. This came as a safety precaution toward an at-risk age group, and in order to protect front line healthcare workers, McMaster tells in a tweet. These restrictions are to be enforced until further notice.

Eat & Drink

South Carolina Cities Mandate Masks

To mask or not to mask, is no longer the question. This month, several SC cities are pushing to mandate that all citizens need to wear face protection in public.

The Charleston City Council approved a face mask ordinance which began being enforced on July 1st. The ruling mandates that all citizens must wear face mask protection when entering any retail or restaurant establishment. This movement caters in an attempt to keep businesses open.

Greenville Online shared a sign posted at the door of a CVS Pharmacy on Main Street. “Face masks are required by law. When you wear a face mask, even ones made from cloth or common household items and materials, you promote your own safety and that of our colleagues and other customers,” the sign read. The response to these changes has been both negative and positive.

With 30,263 confirmed COVID-19 cases statewide, SC has officially become a hotspot this summer. Some say these cases came as a response to establishments re-opening too quickly.

“The state cannot mandate everyone to wear a mask,” says Governor Henry McMaster on the issue. “It is ineffective, impractical, and unenforceable to have a statewide mandatory mask requirement.” McMaster did plead for citizens to start wearing masks. As of now, there are no further plans to lift restrictions on establishments that facilitate large crowds.

With cases still rising, we haven’t heard the last of the mask debate. But, it is difficult to say whether or not we will see any permanent legislative changes regarding the wearing of a mask.

News

Gov. McMaster Announces Restaurant Saftey Initiative

Governor Henry McMaster announced a restaurant safety initiative known as the Palmetto Priority Pledge last Tuesday. During a Livestream on Facebook, McMaster broke down the details of what this means for restaurants in SC.

“Palmetto Priority is a formal commitment made by South Carolina restaurateurs to provide a clean and safe environment for their staff and customers to demonstrate real precautions that they are taking to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” the official website states.

At a glance, this agreement is to be signed by restaurants that pledge to commit to the necessary safety requirements. It’s to include sanitation guidelines, reopening instructions, and participation in several online education modules. If a restaurant completes these actions, they join the master list of safe establishments. Community members can view the directory and for a comprehensive list of which establishments are following the necessary protocol.

In an attempt to keep SC safe, this pledge is a means of spreading safety and information. Next time you decide to dine out, visit Palmetto Priority to assure that your safety is being made a priority.

Uncategorized

What To Do During Your Next Weekend Getaway To Hilton Head Island, SC

Summer trips aren’t entirely canceled this year. While you might not be able to book a getaway overseas, that doesn’t mean you can’t travel at all. Gear up for a road trip this summer and head to Hilton Head Island, SC. Your family trip or weekend getaway can still be packed full of adventure. Check out this list of activities for your next visit to Hilton Head.

Hit the Beach

It wouldn’t be a trip to Hilton Head without a relaxing day at the beach. Luckily, they’ve got many to choose from. Coligny Beach Park is a fan favorite and by far the most popular. With gorgeous sunsets and perfect weather for a day on the coast, you’ll be left wanting to extend your trip. For those seeking a bit more peace and quiet, Mitchelville Beach is sure to please. This northeastern end shore is a great remote relaxation spot.

Visit a Museum

Once you’ve got your taste of the sun, head to the Coastal Discovery Museum for free admission. This 68-acre museum offers culture and history your kids will love. Not only will families adore it, but travelers can enjoy the stunning oak trees and gardens as far as the eye can see. There’s something for everyone at this outdoor ecological preserve.

Have a Night in Harbour Town

For fun, shopping, and socializing, a night in Harbour Town is just the answer. The downtown Hilton Head district is filled with scenic views and delicious restaurants. You’ll feel like you’re inside a postcard! Meander down the streets post-dinner for a picturesque evening sunset along the water.

Go Golfing

The famous RBC Heritage PGA golf tournament takes place at the Harbour Town Link. Book a tee time for the same greens your favorite golfers competed on. Not only is Harbour Town a stunning spot, but there are 24 other private and public championship golf courses to choose from. Grab your visor and glove because it’s time to hit the greens!

Rent a Boat Tour

For an up-close and personal look into the elegant waterways, you’ll want to book a boat tour. See the beach from a new perspective while enjoying a nice sea breeze. Cast a line or enjoy a lunch on the boat. Either way, this is an experience you simply won’t want to miss.

News

Coronavirus Cases Skyrocket in SC

With the rush to reopen SC businesses, a peak in coronavirus cases has come in response. Many other states are seeing a flattening of cases during the early weeks of summer, but SC is reporting differently. The short 6-weeks of quarantine are likely the reason for this spike.

In a recent press conference, state epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell says “That today [she] is more concerned about COVID-19 in South Carolina than ever been before.” Her unease relates to the rising daily numbers since the beginning of the pandemic. Over 600 deaths have been reported in SC from coronavirus since it entered the U.S.

Will this information have an effect on businesses? If it were up to Governor Henry McMaster, things would remain likely the same. “We can’t stay closed forever,” says McMaster, though he urges residents to practice social responsibility. It seems staying healthy will likely be put on the shoulders of individuals.

For daily reporting of coronavirus numbers, visit Events as they happen on the World Health Organization site.