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Greenville Technical College (GTC) has been selected by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) for the Early Career and Technical Skills Exposure Program. The program encourages middle school participants to prepare for a high-wage career that doesn’t require a four-year degree,” said Dr. Candice Lewis, vice president of Greenville Tech. photo is couttesy of GTC “General Motors recognizes the urgent need for workforce development nationwide. That’s why we are i

Let's look at the big picture before rushing to conclusions about weighing advantages and disadvantages between prosecutors and public defenders. Justly or not, public defenders often get a bum rap. What is the success rate of public defenders? While the success rate for other defense attorneys edged up only from 12% to 13%, for public defenders it nearly doubled, soaring from 18% to 35% during the same period from 2008 to 2019. What skews the view? Top law students split bet

Despite two days of rain, Greenville County remains in severe drought (D2) conditions across most of the area, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. On January 8, 93.25% of Greenville County is in severe drought. In fact, 100% of the county is experiencing some level of drought, according to the report. The current conditions reflect below-normal rainfall over the past several weeks, leading to dry topsoil, declining streamflows, and heightened fire-weather concerns, accordi

Greenville’s bar and restaurant scene is adapting to SC’s new liquor law, effective Jan 1, 2026. According to lawmakers, the law is aimed at easing crushing liquor liability insurance costs by capping restaurant liability at 50% and offering discounts for risk-reducing measures like ID scanners, server training, early closures, and providing hope after recent closures, but some owners feel more needs to be done to combat high premiums and frivolous lawsuits that have plagued

The United States reported more than 2,000 measles cases in 2025. How has the highest annual total impacted the measles elimination status? Epidemiologist Linda Bell A medical elimination status means a specific infectious disease is no longer constantly present in a region, though it can still be reintroduced from elsewhere. It’s achieved through successful public health efforts, such as vaccination, resulting in 12 months of continuous local transmission, as verified by org

Greenville (SC) native, Billy “Alan” Thompson was born in Greenville, SC. He played as a defensive cornerback and safety for the Denver Broncos from 1969 to 1981. Thompson was a three-time Pro Bowl selection and was inducted into the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame in 1987. He set an NFL record (since tied) for the most fumble recoveries returned for touchdowns in a career. Also, a Greenville native and legend, John Whiteside, well remembers how talented Thompson was during his f

Leona Theron, a judge of the Constitutional Court of South Africa, will be the keynote speaker at Furman University’s 2026 MLK Community Breakfast.  The breakfast begins at 8 a.m. on Jan. 16 in the Younts Conference Center on Furman’s campus. The program features rousing songs, with remarks from Furman President Elizabeth Davis, Joseph Vaughn Scholar and health sciences major Amiya Young 2026, and Director of Community Relations, Outreach and Impact Chandra Dillard.  Each yea

Greer City Councilman Karuiam Booker, a long-time admirer of Congressman Jim Clyburn, attended the seminar/book-signing in Sumter. BOOKER AND CLYBURN Sumter native Clyburn, 86,  started  his book tour in Sumter on Sunday, Nov. 16, as part of his statewide tour to promote his new book, "The First Eight.” The event was held at Patriot Hall, with the program presentation, followed by a book signing and reception. According to Booker, an excited audience of about 150 people stron

A new Spartanburg restaurant had its pre-grand opening bash Thursday night. Chamber members were welcomed to Rigsby’s Classic Rock Cafe for a meet-and-greet occasion and an introduction to the new restaurant. First-class decor, tasty food, good music, ambiance blend and exudes a party atmosphere and palatable sense of good times. For the moment, no other place exists. Strong vibes resounded that these folks are serious about hospitality, service, entertainment, and teamwork.

Red Lobster emerged from bankruptcy in 2024. Damola Adamolekun, the new Nigerian-American CEO, closed 100 low-performing locations. The remaining 544 restaurants he upgraded with a $60 million infusion. Gone are the “endless shrimp” specials that siphoned profits; new menu innovations enhance the guest experience and boost the bottom line.    So much for financial reports and spreadsheets, it was time for a test drive of concepts. A family of four went into the Wade Hampton/P

Anita Evans is not a quitter. Once she has set her mind on a good business idea, she sees it through. Evans, a lover of sweets, contracted various health challenges that restricted her consumption of desserts. To circumvent the doctor’s dictum, she created plant-based recipes that can be consumed in moderation by diabetics, persons with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other conditions. Evans is the heart and soul behind Sweet Bites Bakery, LLC. With over 30 years o

The Greenville County Historical Society is moving in January to 644 East Washington Street, a well-preserved century-old residence in the heart of the Pettigru District. And just in time because, according to John Nolan, President of the Board of Directors, their collections have grown, our programs have expanded, and we've outgrown our current space. Nolan said this move represents more than just additional square footage. The move embodies our commitment to historic preser

The taste of Northern Italy is a fitting accent to rare occasions. Such a magical place nestles at the corner of Coffee and Main Strees in Greenville. Ristorante Bergamo affirms the enchanting ambiance that enhances the wine, appetizers, and all the courses throughout the fine food experience. CHEF GIAN PIETRO FERRO Hospitality is welcoming and accommodating, gently suggestive and affirming, making sure we miss nothing while simultaneously acknowledging our preferences. Our c

The new $97 million parking garage at the Greenville-Spartanburg Airport is set to open soon. It will feature 750 new public parking spaces and 750 rental car spots, equipped with high-tech features such as Park Assist technology , EV charging, and a new consolidated rental car facility  for faster service. PHOTO BY CHARLES REAMS This facility will include on-site fueling/washing , all designed to ease congestion and boost capacity for growing passenger numbers.

Matthew Littrell, an Eastside 2021 graduate, made a perfect score on the AP Computer Science Principles Exam that he took in May. The AP Computer Science Principles (AP CSP) exam covers broad computing concepts like data, algorithms, networks, and the impact of technology, not just coding, focusing on computational thinking through two main parts: a digital multiple-choice/written exam and a "Create" performance task where students build something. It's sponsored and administ

Everybody needs their hair cut. Barber Shops are a place to deposit business cards and other information for the public. Please mention other ideas for our community to help one another. Submit your ideas to sources@whatsupnews.online KD and Kerry, artists at First Class Barbers, are all in on networking with one another. KD AT WORK You can too.  Make your suggestions soon. KERRY LINES IT UP JUST SO

Greer City Council is moving forward with a zoning change on parcels on Highway 14 near Batesville Road. The land is zoned for residential use, but the proposed 27-2025 is for commercial development, allowing three owners to build a garage for rare and collectible cars. STREET VIEW OF THE PARCEL After the final zone change approval, the owners plan to merge the 14.5-acre parcel into one, build a museum-style garage layout, and invite members only to join. MAP OF RESIDENTIAL A

Phinneyk's Buffet 1712 E. Easley Bridge Rd Greenville, SC X X COME ON IN. HOT FOOD IS ALWAYS READY FOR YOU! X X

The Thomas and Vivian A Wong Honor Tower was open to the public on November 11 in Unity Park. The 125-foot tower features an observation deck that offers panoramic views of downtown and the Blue Ridge Mountains, and pays tribute to veterans, active service members, and first responders. PHOTO BY CHARLES REAMS Authorities offered priority views to first responders from 1-5 pm.

You can find interactive maps for free food. This is the best location finder available. Enjoy. https://www.findhelp.org/food/food-pantry--greenville-sc