A "distraction" is listed as anything that takes your attention away from the road while driving. This could be anything from a backseat argument to feeling the need to answer a text message. In fact, mobile device use presents the highest risk for getting into an accident while driving than most other distractions today.

To help prevent accidents related to drivers being distracted by their mobile devices, South Carolina has introduced a new Hands-Free/Distracted Driving Law. The law goes into effect on September 1, 2025.

Under this new law, drivers are no longer allowed to:

• Hold or support a mobile device with any part of their body*.

• Use a mobile device to read, compose, or transmit texts, emails, app interactions, or website information.

• Watch motion on a mobile device, including a video, movie, mobile game, or video call.

Violations of this new law could lead to fines and points being taken off of your license. As harsh as that sounds, the state is leaving some room for leniency for the first 180 days the law is in effect. During that time, law enforcement will be able to issue warnings, as opposed to handing out tickets immediately.

That doesn't mean you're free to just use your mobile device behind the wheel for the first three months the law is in effect. Use this time to practice safe driving habits. Keep your phone out of your hands and your eyes on the road - we'll all be better off for it!

Some of the best vacations you'll ever take over summer break will be in your own home state, without a doubt. From the mountains to the coast, there's something for everyone here in South Carolina! Let's take a look at some of the top road trip destinations here in our own backyard.

Hilton Head Island: Hilton Head is one of the top beach destinations in the country, and it happens to be closer to you than you think! The island is full of parks and trails to explore for nature lovers. There's also plenty of sand and surf to enjoy, dolphin watch tours, and opportunities to check out the panoramic views offered by the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse.

Charleston: This quaint oceanfront town is a top destination for history buffs. Charleston is chock full of historic homes and buildings to admire and explore. Civil War historians will find plenty to see at Fort Sumter and beyond. More into the scary side of things? Local ghost tours take you through eerie landmarks, such as battlefields and pirate forts. No matter what you do, you'll need to make sure you take time to explore the City Market and enjoy some excellent local cuisine at one of many Charleston hot spots.

Myrtle Beach: This is the first spot everyone thinks of when it comes to planning a road trip in SC. Myrtle Beach has plenty of fun things to see and do for all members of the family. Theme parks, haunted houses, beaches, gardens, a zoo, and even a castle(!) are all waiting for you here. For the big kids, there's plenty of vibrant night life to take in.

Greenville: Looking for a getaway to the mountains? Greenville is the place you're looking for. This beautiful city features a route to part of the Blue Ridge in the Northeast, giving you access to waterfalls and trails. After a full day of exploring the natural wonders Greenville has to offer, there are plenty of breweries and restaurants - excellent places to kick back and relax!

One of the hottest places you can be in the middle of the day isn't on the sand or on the pavement, it's in your car. The longer the sun beats down on your ride, the more the inside of it becomes an oven. There's good news, though: you can prevent this from happening! Here are a few ways you can cool your car down on the hottest days.

Stay in the Shade: This is one of the most cost-effective ways to keep the inside of your car from becoming a broiler. If you can find a place in the shade to park your vehicle, it'll make a big difference in your car's temperature. For the best result, make sure your windshield and most of the glass on your vehicle are in the shade.

Crack Your Windows: Cracking your windows even the slightest bit can keep heat from getting trapped in your car. We offer this tip with a bit of caution, though. Keeping your windows cracked can be an open invitation for thieves to take the valuables in your vehicle, or your vehicle itself. Only crack your windows if you know the area and you feel that it's safe to do so.

Crank the A/C: While not the most cost-effective way to keep your vehicle cool, it's probably the easiest. Starting your vehicle up and letting the A/C run for a bit won't miraculously turn it into an icebox, but it will make a slight difference. If you have a vehicle with remote start, it makes this step much easier!

Get a Sunshade or a Car Cover: Honestly, you really couldn't go wrong with buying both! Sunshades, window shades, and car covers can all help keep your vehicle cool inside as the temperatures rise outside. Mylar shades and fitted car covers yield the best results, but any kind of shield from the sun's rays is better than none.

Energy bills tend to skyrocket during the summer. HVAC and air conditioner usage plays a major role in those rising costs, but there are other factors driving energy bills up as well. Below, you'll find our top ten tips to help you conserve energy - and save big on energy bills - this summer.

1: Buy and install a Smart thermometer to help precool your home.   

2: Use a dehumidifier in your home to help reduce summertime humidity.  

3: Treat your windows to help keep heat out.

4: Run dishwashers, washers, and dryers outside of peak hours 

    (usually 2-6pm) 

5: Give your central air system or air conditioner a tune up.

6: Replace your heat pump filters at least once per quarter.

7: Consider investing in Energy Star-rated appliances.

8: Use power strips and smart plugs.

9: Use LED lights to help reduce energy usage and extra heat in the home.

There are few better sources for gardening info than the Almanac! Here are a few quick suggestions for creating a great garden from this time-tested source.

• Use safe insect control measures to protect your garden from pests.
• Mow your lawn to recommended heights by grass type.
• Finish pruning spring-flowering trees and shrubs shortly after they bloom.
• Lay plenty of mulch to help retain moisture during dry spells.
• Prepare thoroughly for hurricane season.
• Lay mulch between your garden rows to help control soil temperature and moisture levels.
• Check plants regularly for diseases and insects and treat when necessary.
• Water your plants early in the morning (optimally before sunrise), and make sure to water deep.
• Maintain a healthy lawn by mowing, watering, and fertilizing it regularly. It's best to fertilize with control-released nitrogen.