Tuesday headlines: S.C. congressional lines lawsuit opened Monday

The federal trial over the redraw of South Carolina’s congressional lines began in a Charleston courtroom Oct. 3. The lawsuit alleges Republican lawmakers redrawing lines in the state’s 1st, 2nd and 5th Congressional Districts to disadvantage Black voters, violating the 14th and 15th Amendments.

The case is expected to last two weeks and will not affect the outcome of the Nov. 8 general election.

In other headlines:

State boosts broadband internet access. U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., and GOP Gov. Henry McMaster on Monday celebrated 100,000 South Carolina homes getting access to broadband internet thanks to stepped-up efforts over the last year. Only about 150,000 homes in the Palmetto State still lack broadband access, state officials said, but they should have connectivity within four years.

Charleston among top foodie cities in America. In a recent study from WalletHub, Charleston ranked no. 19 overall in the best foodie cities in the United States. The city ranked no. 1 in affordability and accessibility. Columbia was ranked no. 109 overall on the list.

Hamilton to receive Tip of the Hat Award. Retired jazz musician Lonnie Hamilton III will receive one of the highest honors at the Charleston Jazz fundraising gala Oct. 14. The award is named after Charleston Jazz co-founder Jack McCray, who was known to play at entertainment venues around town with his “chapeau.”

Shem Creek shrimpers help after Ian. The iconic Shayna Michelle trawler that had been in Shem Creek until recently was grounded in Myrtle Beach after Hurricane Ian. Shrimpers from Shem Creek traveled to Myrtle Beach to help retrieve the stranded vessel. The boat was scheduled to be retrieved Monday, but was delayed due to the tides not being high enough. Another attempt is expected Tuesday.

MUSC library looks to Black medical history. The Medical University of South Carolina is working to restore and expand its collection of Black medical history.

Supreme Court to hear arguments regarding Voting Rights Act. The Supreme Courts will hear arguments Tuesday that could further dismantle the Voting Rights Act, first passed in 1965 that aimed at eliminating race discrimination among minority voters. Meanwhile, the country’s high court welcomes a new justice and opens to the public once again.