AGP Executive Report

NASCAR at Darlington: The Chase for the Cup begins Sunday at South Carolina’s Darlington Raceway, with the standings reset and Denny Hamlin starting with a slimmer 25-point edge over Ryan Blaney in a 10-race, cumulative-points playoff run. Coastal cleanup: Daniel Island’s 37th annual Beach, Marsh & River Sweep is set for Sept. 19, a two-hour volunteer waterway cleanup that last year pulled 2,243 pounds of trash and doubles as “trash tally” citizen science. Revolutionary history tourism: The Daniel Island Historical Society won a $15,000 SC250 grant to research and uncover Revolutionary War-era ties on the Cainhoy Peninsula, including work linked to the Old Ruins/McDowell Cemetery. Local travel spotlight: CNN Travel named Greenville one of America’s Best Towns to Visit for 2026, praising its downtown and culinary scene. Safety on vacation: Authorities say a 5-year-old nonverbal girl found dead near Pawleys Island was not wearing her Project Lifesaver transmitter when she wandered; her parents have been charged. Golf tech in Myrtle Beach: eMYRge’s Golf Tech Accelerator Challenge debuts Oct. 6-8 at the HTC Aspire Hub, featuring seven startups aimed at the future of golf tech.

Tourism Safety & Tragedy: A non-verbal 5-year-old, Saylor Hayes, was found dead after vanishing from a Pawleys Island vacation rental; authorities say hundreds joined an overnight search using drones, K-9s, divers, and Project Lifesaver tracking. Road Travel Watch: Myrtle Beach reported lane closures after a multi-car crash on U.S. 17 North; SCDOT also plans a left-lane closure on I-26 westbound near the SC 49 bridge in Spartanburg for repairs. Holiday Enforcement: South Carolina Highway Patrol and local police are stepping up Labor Day weekend enforcement, with extra focus on impaired and distracted driving. Grand Strand Business: Perkins Restaurant & Bakery is offering incentives to new franchisees in Myrtle Beach, including reduced royalty fees and a city facade grant. Local Culture & Events: Conway is in Hallmark’s “Merriest Christmas Town” contest—voting runs through Sept. 4, with the winner announced later in October. Scam Alerts: BBB Scam Tracker ranks multiple SC cities in the top tier for July reports, with Belton-Honea Path and Mullins among those tied near the middle of the statewide list.

NASCAR in SC: The Chase for the Cup kicks off Sunday at Darlington Raceway, with standings reset and Denny Hamlin starting as the top seed after a strong run that cut his lead to 25 points over Ryan Blaney. Rideshare safety: A Greenville County woman was denied bond after allegedly stabbing a Lyft driver 11 times and stealing his car, raising fresh concerns about ride pickup safety. Local health & travel watch: North Carolina officials warned of possible measles exposure at an Asheville hotel and a Hendersonville gas station, urging anyone there to monitor symptoms. Big South Carolina construction update: Atrium Health Fort Mill is seeking to expand its development by about 10 acres, adding more commercial space and up to 300 homes near I-77. Environmental compliance: A Gray Court concrete plant was found violating dust-emission rules and permit conditions, according to an inspection report. Community & tourism: QDOBA is opening Sept. 2 in Travelers Rest, adding 25 jobs and a new dining option for visitors. Gas prices: Labor Day travel is coming as fuel costs stay elevated, with multiple South Carolina counties reporting recent premium gas price snapshots.

G20 in Asheville: South Carolina’s region gets a spotlight as Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman arrives for the G20 finance ministers’ meeting, with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hosting talks on global growth and sovereign debt—plus a major focus on Iran. Grand Canyon travel disruption: A flash flood left 1 dead and about 15 missing, and knocked out the park’s only water pipeline, forcing water conservation and ending overnight stays for tourists starting Monday. South Carolina health watch: West Nile virus is back in the Carolinas—mosquito testing in Georgetown County found a positive sample after two human cases in Myrtle Beach earlier this month. Local safety/justice: A Greenville County judge denied bond for a woman accused of ordering a Lyft, stabbing the driver 11 times, and stealing his car. Road-trip costs: GasBuddy reports the lowest Richland County regular price hit $3.23/gal for the week ending Aug. 22, while diesel and E85 prices vary widely across nearby counties. What to do in Charleston: Concert listings for September highlight venues like The Refinery and the Gaillard Center.

Midterms Politics: President Trump told voters to “pretend I’m on the ballot,” tying the message to his endorsement of South Carolina’s Sen. Darline Graham as GOP leaders gear up for a Sept. 9-10 midterm convention in Dallas. Travel Safety & Health: A flash flood at the Grand Canyon led to evacuations and water-pipeline damage, while North Carolina health officials warned of possible measles exposure at an Asheville Holiday Inn Express for visitors on Aug. 26. Coastal & Visitor Life: Isle of Palms police stepped up patrols for Saturation Saturday, targeting impaired driving, speeding, and distracted driving. Local Tourism Spotlight: CNN Travel named Greenville among America’s best towns to visit in 2026, praising parks and trails, urban renewal, and the Swamp Rabbit Trail. On-the-Water Fun: A Myrtle Beach couple reported a once-in-a-lifetime jet ski encounter as dolphins surrounded them near Waties Island. Road Tragedies: Clarendon County saw multiple fatal crashes, including a tractor-trailer crash on I-95 and a deadly collision on Old Manning Road. South Carolina Fraud Watch: BBB Scam Tracker listed Dillon among cities with scam reports in July, continuing a broader statewide fraud trend.

Dolly Parton in South Carolina: A Greenville writer recalls a 2011 call with the late icon as her ties to the Palmetto State—from Lockhart roots to a Myrtle Beach dinner theater investment—remain part of her legacy. Scam alerts for travelers: BBB Scam Tracker data shows Dillon, Simpsonville, Goose Creek, Chapin, and Graniteville among South Carolina cities with notable July scam reports, a reminder to watch for online purchase and “processing fee” style schemes. Culture on the move: Summerville’s first-ever Japanese Festival drew hundreds with performances and hands-on activities, showing how Lowcountry events are turning visitors into regulars. Road safety stop: An I-77 welcome center tragedy in Surry County left a woman dead after a tree limb struck her—another caution for travelers during stormy weather. Outdoors & wildlife: A Savannah River triathlete survived an alligator attack by squeezing the animal’s eye, while a separate report argues feral hogs and invasive carp are here to stay. Local community spotlight: Greenwood County School District 50 celebrated multilingual students and families at a Many Languages event.

Bear Bowl Preview: UCLA opens its 2026 season at California Memorial Stadium in the 95th Bear Bowl, with new coach Bob Chesney facing in-state rival Cal for the first time since both left the Pac-12. Outdoor Safety: Triathlete Jonathan Bruney says he escaped a Savannah River alligator attack by squeezing the animal’s eye, after initially mistaking it for a log. Local Community & Culture: Summerville’s first-ever Japanese Festival drew bigger-than-expected crowds with performances and hands-on activities like origami, calligraphy, and kendama. Road & Travel Risk: South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal Clarendon County crash on I-95 involving a tractor-trailer that ran off the road and hit a tree. Tourism Watch: Bahama Breeze’s final locations are closing or being converted under Darden’s brands, including a Charleston, S.C. site slated for change. Consumer Alert: BBB Scam Tracker data shows Simpsonville tied for 8th in South Carolina for July scam reports, with 10 reports and reported losses over $5,000.

Road Safety: A deadly three-vehicle crash is under investigation in Horry County after a wrong-way Ford sideswiped a Nissan and then hit a Mazda; the Mazda driver died and two passengers were taken to hospital. Weekend Beach Prep: With National Beach Day on Aug. 30, officials are urging visitors to heed beach warning flags (yellow/red/double red/purple) and stay out of high-hazard or contaminated areas. Local Travel Disruption: SCDOT will close the Holly Bush Road bridge over Burdine Creek Tributary in Pickens County for repairs starting Aug. 31, with a detour and local-only access during the 3–4 week project. Tourism & Consumer Tech: A Myrtle Beach stop for the Right to Repair movement says software locks and subscription fees are “eroding ownership,” pushing consumers to demand easier repairs. Education & Community Impact: A state probe found Horry-Georgetown Technical College inflated more than 80 grades without faculty consent, raising concerns for students and dual-enrollment outcomes. Sports & Travel Draw: South Carolina men’s soccer beat Clemson 3–2 in the Palmetto Series at Stone Stadium before a record 7,671 fans.

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.