Middle East Energy & Shipping: The U.S. and Iran both claim control of the Strait of Hormuz as attacks escalate, with the U.S. saying shipping remains open via a southern route while Iran says passage isn’t possible—raising new pressure on oil markets and regional logistics. South Carolina Politics: Sen. Lindsey Graham died at 71 after an aortic dissection, triggering a scramble in South Carolina for a temporary Senate replacement by Gov. Henry McMaster and a special GOP primary to set the permanent nominee. Inflation & Manufacturing Costs: Businesses brace for years of higher inflation as tariffs, Middle East risk, and AI-driven power and electronics demand keep costs elevated; one SC manufacturer cites steel prices roughly doubling. Local Infrastructure: Spartanburg County is seeking release of a $6M federal HUD grant for the Saluda Grade Rail Trail as planning and pre-construction move ahead. Public Safety & Industry Growth: Edgefield County is set to finalize a $6.25M bond for a new EMS headquarters tied to a larger Advanced Manufacturing Center plan at Piedmont Technical College. Biotech Manufacturing: Cellares and Sonoma Biotherapeutics announce automation of engineered Treg cell therapy manufacturing on the Cellares Cell Shuttle platform. Food & Consumer Rules: A new SC law will require restaurants to disclose when shrimp comes from outside U.S.-controlled waters, starting Oct. 28. Business Real Estate: Realty Income-linked buyers paid $6.67M each for two Parker’s Kitchen convenience store properties in Aiken and North Augusta.