Wednesday headlines: Free electric vehicle charging stations next year at state parks

Thirty of 47 state parks will offer free electric vehicle charging stations by the end of next year, state officials announced Tuesday.

“EV is something that is just becoming widely popular across the country, so we’re harnessing that here,” Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette said at a press conference. “I think that is something that if you feel passionate about, then we want to make sure that technology and the growth of that industry happen right here in our state.”

Two to four charging ports are expected at each of the EV-connected parks. “That helps not only South Carolina advance in terms of EV infrastructure, but it reduces the range anxiety for our citizens and our visitors to our beautiful state parks,” Office of Regulatory Staff Executive Director Nanette Edwards said.

CP OPINION: Give the gift of a banned book

“These days, unfortunately and counterintuitively for South Carolina, it’s much more likely that you’ll encounter more book nannies who want to ban books than book lovers who want you to make up your own mind about your personal reading list. So in the spirit of St. Nick, here’s a shopping list of outstanding books for adults that have been banned somewhere. Make one a gift.”

In other recent news:

Leaked text shows S.C.’s Norman called for martial law in 2021. U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., is facing calls to resign following release of text messages calling for martial law to stop the inauguration of Joe Biden after the Jan. 6 insurrection. The texts were to former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows. Norman later blamed frustration for the text.

FUN READ: This might be the best indie movie about Charleston you’ve never seen. Learn about The Corndog Man, filmed in Charleston more than 20 years ago.

Berkeley Co. schools mired in controversy. The new superintendent says the state now has his qualifications. The deputy superintendent doesn’t have a contract yet. Meanwhile, the former superintendent is suing the school district over his firing and sparks flew at the first board meeting since he was let go.

HEALTH. Tips to keep safe during tripledemic. NPR talked with public health experts on how you can stay safe as three respiratory pathogens fill hospitals. Meanwhile, Covid cases and deaths are on the rise.

GREEN READ: Ways to help S.C.’s birds. Wild birds are dying in record numbers. South Carolina bird conservationists say it’s not too late to do your part to help sustain the birds that migrate to and nest in South Carolina.

Georgetown Steel gets a boost. The mill will benefit from refinanced loans as city leaders are considering whether to redevelop the site.

Hudson Automotive Group expands to 48 stores. The Charleston-based auto dealer added nine stores in North Carolina to grow its footprint to four dozen dealerships across the Southeast and Midwest.