Rare Earth Manufacturing: USA Rare Earth broke ground on a $1.2 billion rare-earth metal and permanent magnet complex in Blacksburg, aiming to produce neodymium-iron-boron magnets and rare-earth metal by 2028, with hundreds of high-skilled jobs. Nuclear Cleanup Milestones: The DOE says more than 13 million gallons of tank waste have been treated and disposed of at South Carolina’s Savannah River Site, with other federal sites also advancing remediation. Local Waterway Cleanup: Bluffton will host the 37th annual Beach Sweep/River Sweep on Sept. 19, with volunteers cleaning the May River area at Oyster Factory Park and on the water. Rural Health Funding: South Carolina received $167M+ in federal grants to expand and modernize rural healthcare, including behavioral crisis teams, hospital cybersecurity, and maternal care upgrades. Drought Impacts: Lake Hartwell anglers report major changes from low water levels, with shallower fishing areas and less shade affecting fish behavior. Public Health—Rabies Alerts: DPH confirmed rabies in an Anderson County skunk, a Horry County cat, and a York County bat, triggering exposure notifications and quarantines. Energy & Industry: Gov. McMaster backed the proposed $85B Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern rail merger, citing safety, congestion relief, and environmental stewardship. Community Environment Debate: McCormick County residents urged a data center moratorium, warning of large water use and air pollution from gas generation as rezoning advanced. Weather: September heat returns to the Upstate with spotty afternoon storms into the weekend.