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MOUNT PLEASANT, SC — The State Ports Authority will move some of its vehicle export operations to North Charleston to help protect Upstate-built BMWs and other cars from flooding while also freeing up space at the Port of Charleston’s current — and low-lying — export hub for new cargo.

The authority’s board of directors on Friday approved a $720,000 design contract for rail and cargo yard improvements at the port’s North Charleston terminal. That’s the first step toward moving some vehicle exports away from Columbus Street Terminal along the Cooper River in downtown Charleston.

The project aligns with the authority’s goal of generating new revenue from existing property by making Columbus Street available for additional breakbulk cargo — that is, cargo that doesn’t fit into containers.

“We made a commitment to our various constituencies — our board and the regional supply chain entities that depend on us to grow — that we would focus our investment on immediate revenue-generating opportunities or capacity,” said Micah Mallace, the authority’s president and CEO, adding this is the first of several expected announcements.

“We’ll find creative new ways to monetize our real estate, which we have a fair amount of,” he said. “This is the first one.”

The authority’s plans also include demolition starting this summer of the old WestRock paper mill, which is adjacent to the North Charleston terminal.

The authority bought the roughly 280-acre paper mill site for $105 million two years ago after WestRock shut down the facility following 86 years of operation.

Rail improvements are planned on the old paper mill site so state-owned Palmetto Railways can help Norfolk Southern and CSX Corp. move vehicles to the new vehicle export center.

The expanded rail service “builds on existing rail infrastructure and improves capacity for future cargo growth,” said Patrick McCrory, president and CEO of Palmetto Railways.

McCrory said the short-line railroad, a division of the state’s Commerce Department, will also collaborate with the authority on future cargo opportunities at Columbus Street Terminal.

Flooding has vexed Columbus Street Terminal for years, and the maritime agency has spent millions looking for a solution to protect vehicles parked there waiting to be shipped overseas.

In 2024, for example, hundreds of BMWs parked at the terminal were damaged by saltwater intrusion.

Last year, the authority’s board approved spending nearly $400,000 to study raising the elevation of Columbus Street Terminal.

The authority also installed machinery to move water off the 155-acre site, purchased removable barriers to divert floodwater away from vehicles and spent $2 million to pave a backup staging area for BMW exports at the Leatherman Terminal in North Charleston.

Mallace said the North Charleston Terminal plan “absolutely” would help mitigate flooding concerns.

Columbus Street Terminal, which dates to the late 1950s, also serves Volvo Cars and Mercedes-Benz Vans as well as several breakbulk customers.

The terminal, which has the capacity to move more than 250,000 vehicles annually, has handled 116,328 exported vehicles through the first nine months of this fiscal year, which started July 1.

Work to create a vehicle export site in North Charleston will start next year, with operations expected to begin in 2028.

The authority’s board also approved a demolition contract for the WestRock paper mill site that will also address asbestos remediation. Demolition costs will be covered by selling scrap materials from tearing down the paper mill.

The maritime agency has long-term plans to add more container cargo to the site where the WestRock mill once operated.

But before that expansion can take place, the state’s Department of Transportation will have to replace the Don Holt Bridge over the Cooper River to make room for the tall container ships that now visit U.S. ports.

Those plans are in the early stages. Vessels that carry vehicles don’t need the higher bridge clearance.

The authority’s board also heard an update on the port’s cargo levels, which continue to be roiled by global tariff and economic concerns.

The port’s marine terminals handled 102,246 cargo containers of all sizes in April.

That’s the second-lowest during the current fiscal year and a 13.5% drop from the same month a year earlier. Revenue is down about 4% so far this fiscal year, due largely to the drop in container volumes.

The problem isn’t limited to Charleston’s port. Projections by the National Retail Federation show U.S. ports saw a 3.6 percent year-over-year drop in imports in April.

“With inflation rising and consumer confidence falling among global economic uncertainty driven by the conflict in Iran, the overall trend of lower imports is expected to continue after that,” Jonathan Gold, the federation’s vice president for supply chain and customs policy, said in a written statement.

Maritime analyst Ben Hackett, founder of Hackett Associates, said retailers are cautious about building up inventories.

“Containerized imports in the first quarter were down year over year, and forward demand is weakening,” Hackett said in a written statement.

Source: SC Daily Gazette

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On May 13, 2026, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced more than $237 million to reimburse states, local governments, Tribal Nations and territories for expenses related to previous natural disasters.  

“We are laser focused on removing unnecessary roadblocks to ensure these federal dollars are able to reach affected communities so they can rebuild,” said Robert J. Fenton, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the FEMA Administrator. “We are working closely with our counterparts on the ground to make sure they have the technical assistance and guidance they need to get their projects approved and move their recovery forward.”  

The funds will be distributed through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Public Assistance program to support 61 projects across the country. This money is disbursed to states and local communities who are best positioned to know how these funds should be most effectively spent. These projects include repairs to critical infrastructure, restoration of public buildings, road repairs and reimbursement for costs incurred to ensure public health and safety after a disaster.

Some examples of the approved projects are:

• More than $19 million to the South Carolina Department of Transportation for contract services to conduct debris removal and debris monitoring activities as a result of Hurricane Helene.
• More than $9 million to the Greater Lafourche Port Commission in Louisiana to address beach erosion on Fourchon Beach as a result of Hurricane Ida. 
• More than $6 million to the French Broad Electric Membership Corporation in North Carolina to repair and restore the Capitola Hydroelectric Power Plant that was damaged by Tropical Storm Helene. 
• More than $2 million to the Sharkey Issaquena Community Hospital in Mississippi for temporary hospital modules in response to severe storms and tornadoes.
• Nearly $2 million for the Havasupai Tribe to repair and restore fencing at the ancestral burial grounds that was damaged by flooding. 

Four additional projects are funded from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which empowers states, local governments, tribal nations and territories to complete activities and projects that prevent, eliminate or reduce disaster-related damage. 

Examples of the approved post-disaster mitigation projects funded through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program include: 

• More than $3.99 million  for the acquisition and demolition of five residential structures in Bellingham, Everson, Ferndale and Lynden, Washington. These flood-prone properties are being demolished, and the land will be deed-restricted and maintained as open green space. These efforts substantially reduce the risk of future damage. 
• More than $2 million to the Archdiocese of San Juan in Puerto Rico to purchase and install generators and hardened electrical cabinets in 23 schools across nine municipalities. This project provides backup power to the facilities to continue critical services during power outages. 

These projects are the latest examples of billions of dollars in disaster recovery provided by FEMA to support state and local communities as they work to rebuild from recent natural disasters. FEMA will continue to work with states, local governments, Tribal Nations and territories to streamline recovery funding efforts for past natural disasters.

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Source: FEMA.gov

Bill Ends Use of American Tax Dollars Funding Foreign Shrimp Operations

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 13, 2026) – Today, Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC) announced the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 2071, the Save Our Shrimpers Act, by a vote of 391-18. Rep. Mace was a lead cosponsor of the bipartisan legislation, which requires United States representatives at international financial institutions to oppose providing financial assistance to foreign shrimp farming and processing operations which directly compete with domestic shrimpers.

“South Carolina’s shrimping industry is part of our identity, our heritage, and our economy,” said Congresswoman Mace.“For too long, our shrimpers have been undercut by foreign competitors bankrolled with American tax dollars. The Save Our Shrimpers Act puts an end to it. This is about a level playing field. It is about making sure American tax dollars work for American shrimpers and not against them. We will always go to bat for the hardworking men and women of South Carolina’s coast.”

The Save Our Shrimpers Act requires the Secretary of the Treasury to instruct U.S. Executive Directors at international financial institutions to use the voice and vote of the United States to oppose any financial assistance for foreign shrimp farming, shrimp processing, or shrimp export projects. 

The Save Our Shrimpers Act is supported by shrimping and fishing industry organizations across the country:

“The Save Our Shrimpers Act is about one simple principle: American tax dollars should not be used to subsidize foreign shrimp operations that are putting American shrimpers out of business. For years, our industry has been crushed by unfair trade practices and artificially cheap imports while family shrimp boats across the South have struggled to survive. We’re grateful to Congressman Troy Nehls and the bipartisan group of cosponsors, including South Carolina’s Congresswoman Nancy Mace and Congressman Russell Fry, for standing up for working waterfronts, American food security, and the families who have helped feed this country for generations. This bill is a common-sense step toward finally putting American shrimpers first,” said Bryan Jones, Vice President, South Carolina Shrimpers Association.

“Passage of the Save Our Shrimpers Act is integral to helping the shrimp industry achieve a level playing field. For years, our competitors have been funded by International Financial Institutions (IFI’s) and millions of dollars have been handed over to develop shrimp farms overseas which compete with domestic wild-caught shrimpers.  This practice needs to stop and passage of this bill is a step in the right direction.  Thank you to all who have supported this bill and thereby elevated the U.S. shrimp industry,” said Chris Londrie, President, Texas Shrimp Association.

“The Louisiana Shrimp Association applauds the U.S. House for passing the Save Our Shrimpers Act and urges the U.S. Senate to quickly take action and send this critical legislation to the President’s desk. America’s shrimpers are fighting to survive, and this bill will provide much-needed relief to hardworking fishing families and coastal communities,” said Acy Cooper, President of the Louisiana Shrimp Association.  

 “Supporting the Save Our Shrimpers Act is a no-brainer because it opposes the funding of foreign farmed shrimp operations that make it hard for domestic producers to compete,” said Ryan Bradley, Director of Mississippi Commercial Fisheries United, Inc. 

“The American Shrimp Association proudly supports the Save our Shrimpers Act. The U.S. should not support foreign shrimp development projects that compete with and undermine our domestic shrimp industry. This legislation protects critical jobs in coastal communities and signals to the world that America values our shrimp harvesters and processors first,” said Mr. Tuyen Bui, Director, American Shrimp Association. 

“America’s shrimp processors strongly support the Save Our Shrimpers Act (HR 2071). For far too long, international institutions have poured public dollars into overseas shrimp farming and processing, fueling massive overcapacity and waves of unfair imports that have repeatedly harmed our domestic shrimp industry. This bill will put an end to this practice and ensure that international institutions which are financed with U.S. taxpayer dollars do not use those funds to prop up our competitors overseas,” said Trey Pearson, President of the American Shrimp Processors Association. 

South Carolina’s shrimping communities have faced years of economic pressure from artificially cheap foreign imports, threatening coastal livelihoods across the Lowcountry. Rep. Mace has been at the forefront of standing up for them in Washington. She introduced the Protect American Fisheries Act, cosponsored the Save Our Shrimpers Act, secured amendments supporting the industry in the House-passed farm bill, and secured provisions in the House-passed National Defense Authorization Act requiring the Department of War to purchase only American-caught seafood.

The Save Our Shrimpers Act heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

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Source: Office of Congresswoman Nancy Mace

Governor Henry McMaster named Dr. Brannon Traxler as the acting director of the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH). 

Traxler currently serves as deputy director of Health Promotion and Services & Chief Medical Officer for DPH and has over 18 years of experience in medicine and public health. 

“Dr. Traxler has spent her career improving the well-being of the people of South Carolina and has earned the trust and respect of those she has worked alongside,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “Her experience in medicine, surgery, and public health leadership gives her a strong understanding of the challenges facing our state and the expertise needed to lead the Department of Public Health.”

Previously, Traxler served in several public health leadership roles at the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, including Director of Public Health, Interim Director of Public Health, and Physician Medical Consultant. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she also served as Chief Medical Officer to South Carolina’s emergency response.

Traxler is a 2004 graduate of Clemson University, holds her Master of Public Health from George Washington University, and earned a medical degree from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine. 

She completed a breast surgery fellowship at Emory University and completed her general surgery residency at Greenville Health System.

Traxler was scheduled to begin working as acting director of DPH, Friday, May 15, 2026, and will continue serving in that capacity until a new director is appointed by the governor and confirmed by the South Carolina Senate. 

Source: Greenville Business Magazine

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By Doug Green

“Today marks a major milestone for Airsys as we establish our global headquarters here in Woodruff, South Carolina,” said Yunshui Chen, founder and CEO of Airsys. “This investment reflects our commitment to advancing cooling innovation across the entire spectrum of mission-critical infrastructure.”

Airsys has officially opened its new global headquarters campus in Woodruff, South Carolina, establishing a U.S. hub for manufacturing, engineering and corporate leadership as demand grows for cooling systems that support AI, data centers and high-performing digital infrastructure.

The 60-acre campus represents a $60 million investment in the region and is expected to create 215 new jobs. Manufacturing at the site is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2027. The facility is designed to support Airsys’ work in high-efficiency, zero-water cooling technologies, including air, liquid and hybrid systems for mission-critical environments.

For data center operators, the announcement reflects a broader infrastructure challenge: AI growth is increasing power and cooling demands, while customers look for ways to improve efficiency, resiliency and sustainability. Airsys said the new campus will help accelerate the delivery of next-generation thermal management and liquid cooling solutions for high-density AI workloads and edge infrastructure.

The company is also emphasizing Power Compute Effectiveness, or PCE, a framework that looks at how much provisioned power in a data center is structurally available for IT compute after accounting for cooling, electrical losses and auxiliary systems.

“South Carolina has a long history of manufacturing excellence, and Airsys’ decision to anchor its global headquarters right here in the Upstate is a testament to our state’s world-class workforce and pro-business environment,” said South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster.

By localizing production and engineering in South Carolina, Airsys said it is positioning operations closer to North American customers while strengthening supply chain resilience and quality control for customers operating critical infrastructure.

Airsys serves data center, AI, edge computing, telecom, medical imaging and advanced manufacturing environments. The company has more than 30 years of experience in mission-critical cooling and supports its global operations with more than 1,000 employees across 16 locations.

Learn more: airsysnorthamerica.com

Source: Telecommreseller.com

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Charleston-Based Manufacturer Recognized for Expanding American-Made Waterfront Infrastructure Systems Across International Markets

CHARLESTON, S.C., May 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As global demand grows for durable waterfront infrastructure, Dock Blocks™ of North America is bringing American marine innovation to waterfronts around the world.

The Charleston-based manufacturer of modular floating dock systems and drive-on boat lifts has been named the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 2026 Small Business Exporter of the Year for South Carolina, recognizing the company’s continued international expansion and growing export footprint across the Caribbean and Central America during its milestone 15th anniversary year.

Dock Blocks™ designs and manufactures patented modular floating dock systems, drive-on docking systems, and commercial floating platform systems used across residential, marina, government, military, and industrial waterfront applications. Through a growing international dealer and installer network, the company exports its U.S.-manufactured floating dock systems to markets throughout the Caribbean and Latin America, including the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Panama.

“Over the past 15 years, we’ve focused on building innovative marine infrastructure systems that can perform in demanding waterfront environments anywhere in the world,” said Matt West, CEO of Dock Blocks™ of North America. “Being recognized as Exporter of the Year reflects the growing global demand for durable, modular waterfront solutions and proves that American manufacturing can compete on an international stage.”

The company’s floating dock solutions for marinas, government agencies, commercial waterfronts, and residential markets are designed for long-term durability, configurability, and ease of installation in challenging marine environments. Its product portfolio includes modular docks, floating platforms, PWC docking systems, and boat lift alternatives engineered for marina infrastructure, emergency response, marine law enforcement, and waterfront recreation applications.

Manufactured in the United States through an ISO-certified production process, Dock Blocks™ products support a broad range of global marine infrastructure and Caribbean marina development projects while reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to U.S. manufacturing and supply chain resilience.

Founded in Charleston, South Carolina, Dock Blocks™ has spent the past 15 years expanding its presence across residential, commercial, marina, and government marine infrastructure markets while growing into an exporter of modular marine infrastructure systems serving waterfront projects throughout the Caribbean and Latin America.

ABOUT DOCK BLOCKS™ OF NORTH AMERICA

Dock Blocks™ of North America is a Charleston, South Carolina-based modular floating dock manufacturer celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2026. The company designs and manufactures patented modular floating dock systems, drive-on docking systems, and commercial floating platform systems for residential, marina, government, military, and industrial applications. Its U.S.-manufactured marine infrastructure products are exported throughout the Caribbean and Latin America for use in marina developments, waterfront.

Source: Dock Blocks

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BY  ALLISSA YOUNG

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) has awarded grant funding to four South Carolina-based technology companies while adding two additional startups to its member network.

SCRA announced that Tada AI received a $50,000 acceleration grant, while CAMA Security, Pathly and Vet Media Group each received $25,000 startup grants.

The organization also accepted Baysys Solutions and Digital Site Box as member companies.

SCRA President and CEO Bill Kirkland said the organization welcomes the new member companies and congratulates the businesses receiving funding.

Tada AI, based in Rock Hill, developed an automation platform that uses artificial intelligence to reduce manual data entry and streamline payroll, human resources and back-office operations.

CAMA Security, headquartered on Sullivans Island, provides cybersecurity technology designed to protect embedded systems and internet-connected devices from cyberattacks and firmware tampering.

Lancaster-based Pathly created an AI-powered platform aimed at helping high school students explore career paths and develop post-graduation plans through assessments and planning tools.

Vet Media Group, based in Piedmont, operates an educational platform for veterinarians that includes video training and an AI-powered veterinary medicine research library.

New member company Baysys Solutions focuses on technology-driven logistics tools for the trucking and intermodal transportation industries, while Digital Site Box offers a cloud-based construction management platform designed to modernize job site communication and document storage.

According to SCRA, member companies receive access to startup resources, coaching opportunities and eligibility for future grant funding and investment consideration through its affiliate, SC Launch Inc.

SCRA’s grant funding is supported in part through its Industry Partnership Fund, which offers contributors dollar-for-dollar state tax credits intended to support South Carolina’s innovation economy and job growth.

Source: Spectrum Local News

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By Ashley Craig, Navy Office of Community Outreach

SAN DIEGO – Airman Gabriel White, a native of Summerville, South Carolina, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to USS Theodore Roosevelt, a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier operating out of San Diego, California.

White graduated from Berkeley High School in 2021. 

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Summerville.

“Playing high school baseball back home taught me discipline and character,” White said. “Having jobs in different fields taught me how to adapt and get comfortable being uncomfortable. That’s especially helpful coming straight out of boot camp because I’m now on a carrier with 5,000 people. Knowing how to adapt to this new lifestyle has helped me not be nervous or afraid to fail. When we were learning the ship, a lot of people were scared to walk around or scared to mess up and do the wrong thing. But losing and failing are more beneficial than not trying at all because even when you fail, you’ve learned something.”

White joined the Navy six months ago. Today, White serves as an undesignated sailor in the Airman Professional Apprenticeship Career Track (A/PACT) program.

“I was inspired to join the Navy by my family, specifically my grandfather, Lt. Harley Perry, who raised me,” White said. “He was in the Navy for 26 years, enlisted and then commissioned. He served on submarines. I saw the great impact it had on myself and my family.”

Aircraft carriers are the centerpiece of America’s naval forces. For more than 100 years, they have projected power, sustained sea control, bolstered deterrence, provided humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and maintained enduring commitments worldwide. 

Among the largest warships in the world, Theodore Roosevelt is longer than three football fields at 1,092 feet. The ship is 252 feet wide and weighs more than 100,000 tons. More than 5,000 sailors serve aboard these self-contained mobile airports. 

“This aircraft carrier is one of the most powerful warships in the world, but it is our sailors that give the U.S. Navy our warfighting advantage,” said Capt. Will Mathis, commanding officer of Theodore Roosevelt. “For over 250 years, sailors have built the foundation of our readiness and resolve, enabled us to keep America safe and ensured the U.S. Navy remains the strongest and most capable maritime force in the world.”

According to Navy officials, aircraft carriers are versatile and have unique mission capabilities that make them a more strategic asset for the Navy than fixed-site bases. They are often the first response in a global crisis because of their ability to operate freely in international waters anywhere on the world’s oceans. In addition, no other weapon system can deploy and operate forward with a full-sized aircraft carrier’s speed, endurance, agility and combat capability of its air wing. 

White has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service. 

“I am proud to be a go-to guy for my chain of command and that they trust me with tasks to make operations smoother,” White said. “I haven’t been here long enough to get Sailor of the Quarter, but it makes me feel good to know I was able to step into that role for them, being a junior sailor. They trust me with naval operations, and it makes me feel good that they look at me that way.”

This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity. 

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber-optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

“Serving not only provides freedom to the people I love but also fuels me with purpose day in and day out,” White said.

White is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I want to thank my amazing family for the way they raised me and support me,” White said. “I couldn’t be more thankful. My grandparents raised me and my sister after our parents died when we were young. They sacrificed a lot. Raising my parents and then raising us was kind of like restarting for them.”

Photo Credit Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Caleb Kissner,
Navy Office of Community Outreach

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By Mark A Leon

A new wave of bakery culture is arriving at Carnes Crossroads (2601 N Main St, Suite G
Summerville SC 29486), bringing with it the aroma of freshly baked artisan breads, delicate pastries, handcrafted cakes, and rich espresso beverages that have made TOUS les JOURS an international favorite. Blending French-inspired baking traditions with Asian café influences, TOUS les JOURS is preparing to offer the local community far more than a quick coffee stop — it is creating a warm, modern gathering place designed for every generation to enjoy.

Known worldwide for its commitment to premium ingredients and daily freshness, TOUS les JOURS has built a loyal following through its signature lineup of buttery croissants, soft sweet and savory buns, handcrafted donuts, and seasonal bakery specialties prepared fresh each day. At the heart of the experience are the brand’s celebrated cakes and desserts, including airy cloud cakes, elegant mousse cakes, rich buttercream creations, and beautifully crafted individual pastries that have become staples for celebrations and everyday indulgence alike.

The Carnes Crossroads location will feature a stylish and welcoming café atmosphere where guests can settle in with specialty espresso drinks, signature lattes, teas, smoothies, and blended beverages while enjoying an assortment of freshly prepared sandwiches and convenient grab-and-go offerings. Whether stopping in for a morning pastry, an afternoon coffee break, or dessert with family and friends, visitors can expect an elevated bakery café experience centered around comfort, hospitality, and craftsmanship.

As Charleston’s food scene continues to grow, TOUS les JOURS brings a fresh new energy to the region — combining international flavors, artisanal baking, and café culture into a destination that is poised to quickly become a favorite gathering spot in Carnes Crossroads.

What will you expect from your visit:

Bakery Items

• Fresh baked breads made daily
• Croissants and pastries
• Sweet and savory buns
• Donuts and seasonal bakery items

Cakes & Desserts

• Buttercream cakes
• Cloud cakes
• Mousse cakes
• Individual desserts and pastries

Coffee & Beverages

• Espresso drinks
• Signature lattes
• Tea beverages
• Smoothies and blended drinks

Food Items

• Sandwiches
• Grab-and-go items

Follow Tous les Jours on Instagram or via Website for more information on the big opening!

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