Upstate Palmetto Pulse, June/July

Hughes Investments Announces Mountain High Outfitters Coming to Bridgeway Station

Hughes Investments, Inc. has announced that Mountain High Outfitters is coming to BridgeWay Station. Mountain High Outfitters will occupy 6,197 sqft of ground floor retail space at 1102 Via Corso Avenue, situated across from BridgeWay’s ‘Train Station’ open air pavilion and in between Mercato and Rôtie by Stella’s. The new location at BridgeWay Station will feature a curated selection of over 160 trusted brands, offering an array of apparel and gear for men, women, and children. With many locations throughout the Southeast, this will be the 31st storefront for Mountain High Outfitters, and first in the Upstate. Mountain High Outfitters is reported to open early Fall 2026.

Deborah McKetty Receives Order of Palmetto (some photos)

Community leader Deborah McKetty was honored on Friday, April 10, 2026, with the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor. McKetty is the interim president of the Greenville Housing Fund, and she has worked in nonprofits and community service roles throughout her career. She recently retired as president of the South Carolina Community Loan Fund, and previously served as vice president and chief impact officer of United Way of Greenville County. South Carolina State Sen. Karl B. Allen, who represents the 7th Senate District, said, “To South Carolina, you are no longer just a citizen, no longer just a registered voter. You are now in the history books in the journal of South Carolina as a darling of South Carolina.”

Strategic Development Group Invests in Greenville Technical College Students to Support Growing Manufacturing Workforce Needs (photo included, 4/10)

Strategic Development Group (SDG) is investing in the region’s future talent with a $10,000 gift to the Greenville Tech Foundation to fund scholarships for students preparing for careers in advanced manufacturing at Greenville Technical College (GTC). The funding will support students enrolled in Mechatronics, CNC Programming and Operations program, and the Bachelor of Applied Science in Advanced Manufacturing Technology — programs designed to prepare graduates for immediate entry into one of South Carolina’s most vital industries.

Manufacturing remains a cornerstone of the Upstate economy, driving job creation and regional growth. According to a recent economic impact study, Greenville Technical College generates nearly $933 million in annual economic output and supports more than 5,700 jobs, highlighting the college’s role in developing the workforce local employers depend on.

What’s New and What’s Next at Haywood Mall (photo included, 4/9)

 Haywood Mall, a premier Upstate shopping and lifestyle destination, is continuing to evolve its retail mix in 2026 with the following openings:

— Clarks — Clarks brings a curated selection of men’s and women’s footwear to Haywood Mall. The store features iconic silhouettes like the Desert Boot and Wallabee.

— Rowan — A modern all-ages ear-piercing studio where all piercings are performed by licensed nurses using hypoallergenic jewelry.

— Miss A — A budget-friendly beauty destination hosting the latest trends in makeup, skincare, and accessories without breaking the bank. Opening Spring/Summer 2026. 

— FP Movement — An extension of the Free People brand, offering fashion-forward activewear, elevated loungewear, and wellness essentials designed for movement and self-expression.

– Kendra Scott – Known for its signature use of natural stones and customizable designs, Kendra Scott brings color and creativity to everyday jewelry.

— Fit2Run — A performance-driven retailer specializing in premium running shoes, athletic apparel, and personalized gait analysis for runners and walkers of all levels. Opening later this April. 

— Kolapasi — An innovative quick-service Indian food concept with “truly authentic Indian flavors”. Opening Spring/Summer 2026

Spartanburg County Organizations Partner to Launch Certified Nursing Assistant Cohort, Career Pipeline (also photo, 4/9)

Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, OneSpartanburg, Inc., and the Spartanburg Academic Movement have partnered to establish a new cohort-based career pipeline for certified nursing assistants (CNAs), addressing a critical workforce need in Spartanburg County. The initiative, set to launch its first cohort in June, expands access to CNA training while creating a clear pathway into healthcare careers. The first cohort will feature 32 participants, with a mix of current Spartanburg Regional employees and interested Spartanburg County residents.

This cohort program is a unique earn-while-you-learn opportunity where participants attend school while working hands-on with patients, receive tuition assistance, benefit from guaranteed work placement, and grow within Spartanburg Regional’s supportive organization.

Peace Center Unveils Blockbuster 2026-27 Broadway Season Lineup

The Peace Center has announced a landmark nine-production 2026-27 Broadway Season.

From the “Best Musical” winner Maybe Happy Ending and the spellbinding sensation Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to Disney’s beloved musical Beauty and the Beast, the 2026-27 Peace Broadway Season is the Palmetto State's ticket to Big Broadway Nights Out made local.

The upcoming season offers a blend of iconic shows and groundbreaking new works. Officials with the Peace Center have said how fans will delight in the return of the global phenomenon WICKED, while being among the first in the country to experience the highly anticipated national tours of Operation Mincemeat, the vibrant, five-time Tony Award®-winning BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB™, and the reimagined Dirty Dancing: The Musical. With a lineup that spans from the gritty rock energy of Heathers to the timeless swing sounds of Just In Time, Peace Center officials note that the 2026-27 season promises to be "the most diverse and sought-after ticket in town."

“Broadway is evolving, and this season reflects its fearless new energy,” said Peace Center President and CEO Megan Riegel. “We’ve brought together the year’s most daring new hits and reimagined classics to create a season that feels both fresh and timeless, reminding us that the best stories are the ones we experience together, right here in the Upstate.” 

EARLY-BIRD SUBSCRIPTION PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

New and renewing subscribers can take advantage of early-bird pricing from April 9-30 with an interest-free monthly payment plan as low as $55. The standard minimum monthly payment of $60 takes effect May 1. New season subscription orders are processed in the order received.

Peace Center Vice President of Marketing, Heather Chamberlain, said, “By offering interest-free payment plans for as little as $55 through April 30, we’re inviting both new and returning subscribers to lock in their seats at our absolute lowest early-bird payments. Claim your seats today to lock in your nine Broadway Big Nights Out!” 

Beginning at 9:30 a.m. EDT on April 9, subscriptions may be purchased online at peacecenter.org, by calling the Box Office at 864.467.3000, or by visiting the Box Office located in the Peace Concert Hall lobby. Box Office hours are 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.

SEASON SCHEDULE

From the futuristic glow of a robot’s romance to the spellbinding magic of the Wizarding World, prepare for an electrifying year of storytelling as the Peace Center unveils a 2026-27 season packed with Tony-winning masterpieces and the most anticipated premieres in its history.

MAYBE HAPPY ENDING

September 29–October 4, 2026

• Winner of 6 Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, it’s the Year's Most Celebrated New Show.

• Maybe Happy Ending tells the deeply human story of a chance encounter between two helperbots that sparks connection, adventure, and maybe even love. Even if they’re not.

• “The most original & enchanting new musical to arrive on Broadway in years! It’s nothing short of breathtaking!” – The New York Sun

DIRTY DANCING: THE MUSICAL

November 10-15, 2026

• Get ready to have the time of your life! Based on Lionsgate's beloved film, the story that awakened a generation is back in a new stage production. Dirty Dancing: The Musical is the feel-good escape you’ve been craving, alive with the pulse of electrified dancing, the thrill of secret encounters, and the allure of forbidden romance.

• Set to live music from the original film you love, Baby and Johnny bring to life the summer that changed everything. Your reservation at Kellerman’s awaits! 

• “Dirty Dancing didn’t just entertain — it imprinted itself onto the emotional memory of an entire generation.” – Vanity Fair

WICKED

April 21-May 9, 2027

• A Global Cultural Phenomenon: Experience "the most successful Broadway show ever" live — a multi-award-winning sensation seen by over 72 million people worldwide that remains a definitive, must-see masterwork of the stage.

• An Unforgettable, Hit-Filled Score: From the gravity-defying spectacle of "Defying Gravity" to the emotional power of "For Good," witness the soaring anthems and thrilling score that have made WICKED “the defining musical of the decade.”

• “A magical Broadway musical with brains, heart, and courage.” – Time Magazine

OPERATION MINCEMEAT: A NEW MUSICAL

May 18-23, 2027

• The best-reviewed show in West End history with 88 five-star reviews, Operation Mincemeat is the fast-paced, hilarious and unbelievable true story of the twisted secret mission that won World War II.

• “A laugh-out-loud delight, with endless charm. A breath of fresh air offering complex storytelling, masterful musical sequences, thoughtful themes, and an absolutely bonkers plot … There’s nothing else like it on Broadway.” – Entertainment Weekly, The 10 Best Broadway Shows of 2025

• 2024 Olivier Award winner for Best New Musical, a 2025 Tony Award® winner, and Entertainment Weekly’s #1 Broadway Show of 2025! 

DISNEY’S BEAUTY & THE BEAST

June 23-27, 2027

• A Rare, Landmark Event: Experience Disney’s first North American touring production of this beloved musical in over 25 years, making it a "must-see" generation-defining event.

• The Original Magic, Reimagined: The production reunites the original Tony Award®-winning artistic team to bring the story to life like never before with spectacular new sets and dazzling costumes.

• An Oscar-Winning Masterpiece Brought to the Stage: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of an iconic, award-winning score featuring the timeless classics "Be Our Guest" and "Beauty and the Beast."

HEATHERS THE MUSICAL

July 6-11, 2027

• Following smash hit runs in London and New York, the WhatsOnStage “Best New Musical” winner is coming to Greenville.

• Based on the 1988 cult film, Heathers is a dark rock musical about a teenage misfit who joins the ruthless, popular clique "the Heathers" to survive Westerberg High.

• Praised as “an outrageous, irrepressible musical” (New York Times) and “Mischievous fun” (New York Sun), Heathers The Musical has broken box office records worldwide.

HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHIILD

July 21-25, 2027

• Broadway’s spellbinding spectacular: Experience the wizarding world like never before at this record-breaking, Tony Award®-winning hit, hailed by Forbes as “one of the most defining pop culture events of the decade.” 

• Join Harry and his son on a mind-blowing new adventure through time—brought to life with the most astonishing theatrical magic ever seen on stage. 

• “Jaw-dropping, dazzling visual effects, transformative sets and enchanting sound design. You will be in awe of the staging, visual effects, underlying soundtrack and sheer magic that everyone expects of this fantastical world.” – Paul Lisnek, WGNRadio.com

JUST IN TIME

August 3-8, 2027

• Brings to life the story of Bobby Darin, the legendary singer whose short but remarkable journey took him from teen idol to global sensation. 

• Packed with his biggest hits, including “Beyond the Sea,” “Mack the Knife,” “Splish Splash,” and “Dream Lover."

• JUST IN TIME is “a helluva good time at the theater” (Time Out) and a “wallop of joy” (NY Post).

BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB™

August 24-29, 2027

• The Tony® and GRAMMY® Award-winning BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB™ is a journey through music and memory into the beating heart of Havana. A world-class company brings the story of the iconic album to thrilling life in this tale of big dreams, second chances, and music that needs no translation.

• “Exhilarating! A jaw-dropping, soul-stirring must-see!” – The Washington Post

• “The most intoxicating and rapturous musical of the Broadway season!” – Variety

The Peace Center Box Office, Peace Center App and peacecenter.org are the only official retail outlets for tickets. Patrons who purchase tickets from brokers or a third party should be aware that their tickets may not be valid.

Greenville Triumph Launch 2026 Read to Score Initiative Presented by ScanSource in Collaboration with GE Vernova

As part of its ongoing commitment to investing in communities across the Upstate, the Greenville Triumph SC has announced the launch of their 2026 Read to Score initiative, presented by ScanSource in collaboration with GE Vernova.

The program launched on April 7 during Family Reading Night, a school-led event at Thomas E. Kerns Elementary school, where ScanSource serves as the PTA. In this role, ScanSource actively partners with the school to support literacy, family engagement and enrichment opportunities for students. During the visit, ScanSource employees and Triumph players led story time. The guest readers introduced themselves, shared their favorite childhood books, and read bilingual, pre-approved selections in the school library.

“At ScanSource, we are deeply committed to supporting Thomas E. Kerns Elementary and creating meaningful opportunities for students to grow and succeed,” said Wendy Thacker, vice president of philanthropy and community engagement at ScanSource. “Literacy is a critical foundation for lifelong learning, and we believe every student deserves access to books and engaging experiences that foster a love of reading. We were thrilled to have the Greenville Triumph join us for Family Reading Night, as partnerships like these allow us to extend our impact and contribute meaningfully to students in our community.”

Read to Score motivates students from kindergarten through eighth grade with a goal-focused reading program designed to foster consistency, confidence, and a lifelong love of reading. Each year, the program serves thousands of students throughout the region.

By tracking their reading progress throughout the fall with interactive bingo cards, participants can earn incentives and recognition as they reach milestones. Program highlights include on-field experiences such as a parade around the pitch, as well as ongoing engagement through player appearances and literacy-focused events.

“Programs like Read to Score reflect our responsibility to show up in meaningful ways beyond matchday,” said Megan Kolak, senior vice president of Greenville Pro Soccer. “We have an opportunity to connect with students at an early age and reinforce habits that can shape their future. We’re grateful to ScanSource and GE Vernova for helping us expand that impact.”

Pre-registration for the 2026 Read to Score program is now open to teachers and schools across the Upstate. Educators who sign up before the end of the school year will have a chance to win a Greenville Triumph school assembly this fall, with players and staff visiting their schools.

“At GE Vernova, we believe strong communities start with strong opportunities for young people,” said Jason Reagan, Greenville Plant Leader at GE Vernova. “Programs like Read to Score help inspire curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. We’re proud to invest in students across the Upstate and help empower the next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers.”

Since its start, Read to Score has continued to grow in both participation and influence, demonstrating a shared dedication among the Greenville Triumph, ScanSource, and GE Vernova to invest in and create brighter futures for the next generation in the Upstate.

Teachers and schools interested in participating can learn more and register on the Read to Score Program page of the Triumph website.

Mobile Communications America Strengthens Regional Presence with Acquisition of Shreveport Communications

Spartanburg, South Carolina-based Mobile Communications America, Inc., a leader in integrated communication, connectivity, and security solutions, announced the acquisition of Shreveport Communications, a long‑standing Motorola Service Center serving the Ark‑La‑Tex region for more than 50 years.

Financial terms weren’t disclosed.

Officials said the acquisition expands MCA's footprint in Louisiana, where the company already operates in two locations, and enhances its ability to deliver mission-critical communications, service, and support to public safety agencies and enterprise customers across the Gulf South.

"The strength of Shreveport Communications comes from their expertise, their dedication, and their commitment to doing what is right for customers," said Vince Foody, CEO of MCA. "Their focus on customer service, technical excellence, and rapid response reflects the service-first mindset that defines MCA, and we are thrilled to welcome them to the team."

Shreveport Communications operates from a 5,200-square-foot service center in Shreveport, Louisiana, equipped for drive-up mobile installation and repair, in-house portable radio service, and rapid response field support.

Its fleet of fully equipped service vehicles provides system maintenance across the region, including 24-hour emergency service for contract customers and routine response times designed to meet urgent customer needs.

With the addition of Shreveport Communications, officials said MCA strengthens two key areas of regional service delivery:

• Enhanced local technical support throughout Northwest Louisiana, East Texas, Southeast and Southwest Arkansas.

• Faster response times supported by a larger fleet of service vehicles.

Said Donnie Faith, vice president of Shreveport Communications. “MCA shares our values, our respect for our people, and our unwavering belief that reliability and relationships always come first. We're proud of our legacy, and even more excited about what the future holds together."

The acquisition marks MCA's first of the year.

TD SYNNEX Share the Magic Adds Fifth Charity for First Time in 16 Years, Launching New Co-Worker Nominated President's Choice Award

TD SYNNEX Share the Magic, now in its 16th year, has announced the launch of the President’s Choice Charity, a new annual recognition powered by TD SYNNEX co-workers. 

Each year, co-workers will nominate Upstate South Carolina nonprofits they know and believe in — organizations they’ve seen make a real difference in the communities where they live and work. One is selected to join the Share the Magic family as that year’s President’s Choice Charity, and this year’s inaugural 2026 recipient is the Meyer Center for Special Children.

The Meyer Center for Special Children will join TD SYNNEX’s four longstanding South Carolina beneficiary organizations — A Child’s Haven, Clement’s Kindness, Make-A-Wish South Carolina and Pendleton Place — as part of the 2026 Share the Magic program. The President’s Choice Charity will be formally celebrated at the 16th Annual Share the Magic Celebration on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at the Greenville Convention Center.

“This addition was born out of a desire to extend Share the Magic even further into our community and give our co-workers an opportunity to recognize organizations that have impacted them personally,” said Reyna Thompson, President, TD SYNNEX, North America. “Our co-workers know firsthand the organizations making a difference right here in Upstate South Carolina, and I'm honored to include the Meyer Center as the very first recipient of this recognition."

The community is invited to join all five charities at Share the Magic South Carolina events throughout 2026, connect with TD SYNNEX coworkers, and support fundraising efforts — including the Day at the Drive (July 21), Golf Tournament (August 10), and BMW Driving Experience (November 7).

Nominations are reviewed by the Share the Magic South Carolina Committee, and one organization is selected to be recognized, celebrated, and supported alongside the program’s four founding beneficiaries.

Upstate-Based Workforce Partner WorkSmart Celebrates 35 Years of Service-First Staffing

WorkSmart, a women-owned staffing firm founded in Greenville, S.C., is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, marking more than three decades of empowering talent, supporting companies’ growth, and strengthening the communities it serves. 

Founded 35 years ago by Judy Barnes, the sole employee with a bold vision, WorkSmart has become a trusted workforce partner employing more than 300 professionals over the years. Since its founding, the company has placed over 60,000 individuals, with more than 250 client partners across multiple industries, helping businesses adapt, grow and thrive through the ever-evolving economic cycles. 

“What began as a leap of faith has become a legacy of service,” said Vanessa Barnes, CEO of WorkSmart. “Our vision has never changed; WorkSmart leads with service and treats people with respect. As we’ve grown and adopted new technologies, our human-first approach has remained at the core of everything we do, and it’s what will continue to guide us through the years to come.” 

Throughout its history, WorkSmart has demonstrated an ability to adapt quickly while staying grounded in its values. One of its most defining moments came during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the company helped spearhead large-scale hiring efforts for at-home COVID testing, placing more than 1,200 team members at a time when speed, reliability and care were critical. 

“That time truly crystallized who we are,” said John Barnes, president and chief vision officer. “The staffing industry has changed drastically over the years, with new technology, tools and expectations emerging often. But the fundamentals haven’t changed; people want to be treated fairly, communicated to with honesty and supported. Our grit, our willingness to adapt and our commitment to meeting clients and team members where they are is what has helped us grow so much over the last 35 years.” 

WorkSmart has also built long-standing partnerships, with many client relationships lasting more than a decade. Over time, the company has expanded into new geographic markets, including Georgia and surrounding Upstate areas, while maintaining a strong local presence and reputation. 

Today, the women-owned firm continues to honor the trailblazing spirit of its founder. “When Judy Barnes opened the firm, it was a risk, and a remarkable one,” Vanessa Barnes added. “We honor her legacy by always doing the right thing, even when it’s difficult. That principle still guides our decisions today.” 

Looking ahead, WorkSmart is focused on deliberate growth, with plans to deepen its footprint in the Upstate while rolling out new tools focused on culture, testing and smarter talent matching. The company continues to explore emerging technologies, including AI, with a disciplined approach that enhances efficiency without sacrificing the human connection. 

“Our goal is simple,” said John Barnes. “We want to be a great place to work and a great company to work with – one that challenges the status quo, collaborates with excitement and elevates the communities we’re part of. That’s the legacy we’re building on as we move into our next era.” 

To learn more about WorkSmart, visit https://www.worksmartstaffing.com. 

Palmetto Corp. and Luck Stone Announce Partnership to Co-Locate at Existing Enoree Site, Bringing Investment and Jobs to Spartanburg County

Palmetto Corp., a construction company providing paving services and site development solutions, and Luck Stone, a family-owned and operated provider of crushed stone aggregates and environmental performance products, announced a new partnership that will bring Palmetto Corp.’s operations to Luck Stone’s existing Enoree site.

Palmetto Corp. will invest $15,000,000 to construct a state-of-the-art asphalt plant supporting road construction, resurfacing, and infrastructure development across the region. The project is expected to create 50 jobs and begin operations in spring 2026.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to thoughtful growth that supports local communities, strengthens infrastructure, and creates meaningful employment opportunities in Spartanburg County.

“We are pleased to join Luck Stone in Enoree to streamline the logistics of our asphalt manufacturing process and bring good-paying jobs to Spartanburg County,” said Eric Faulk, chief operating officer of Palmetto Corp. “Once completed, we will be able to employ the latest technology to turn the crushed aggregate we purchase from Luck Stone into asphalt at the same location, increasing our efficiency and effectiveness as a company.”

Both companies have demonstrated a long-term commitment to South Carolina. Last year, Luck Stone announced plans for significant investment across Chester, Edgefield, Saluda, and Spartanburg counties, in addition to expanding its Fairfield and Kershaw County sites. Palmetto Corp.’s Enoree location represents the company’s eighth plant in the state and its second in two years, following the opening of its Fairfield County site, reinforcing its continued investment in South Carolina.

“Luck Stone is proud to support Palmetto Corp.’s growth through this co-location agreement,” said Trevor McLouth, vice president – South Carolina, Luck Stone. “This partnership reflects how we approach growth at Luck Companies: with a focus on people, community, and long-term impact. Our mission to ignite human potential and make a positive impact guides how and where we grow, and we’re excited about what this means for Spartanburg County.”

This marks the second time Luck Stone and Palmetto Corp. have partnered on a co-location in South Carolina. The Palmetto Corp. plant will operate within the existing footprint of the Enoree site, which began operations in December 2024.

Piedmont Natural Gas Files Application for Base Rate Adjustment in South Carolina

Piedmont Natural Gas today filed a request with the Public Service Commission of South Carolina to update its billing rates through a general rate case proceeding.

The new rates would allow Piedmont to recover recent utility capital investments for its growing South Carolina customer base and the increased cost of capital since its last rate case.

If approved, Piedmont anticipates the rates will go into effect Oct. 1, 2026, with the typical residential customer in South Carolina paying, on average, $7.67 more per month, or $92 more per year.

Piedmont is also requesting concurrent rate reductions for pass-through natural gas costs, which will help mitigate the overall impact on customer bills. The overall revenue increase requested is 6.3%.

Piedmont serves about 170,000 customers in Anderson, Spartanburg, Greenville and Cherokee counties in South Carolina. Piedmont's last general rate case proceeding in South Carolina was in 2022.

"Piedmont works to keep costs as low as possible while safely and reliably serving our customers," said Emily Henson, president of Piedmont Natural Gas. "Raising rates is a decision we never make lightly, and we know any increase may be challenging to some customers.

"Piedmont remains focused on helping our customers manage their bills and energy usage," Henson continued. "We offer a variety of options, including our Equal Payment Plan program, payment assistance programs, and energy-saving tips and tools."

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