Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

Friday, February 15, 2013  The director of the state tourism department predicts this is the year the $15 billion industry returns to pre-Great Recession levels.

Sunday, January 27, 2013  A new South Carolina tourism season is approaching, and the director of the state tourism department predicts this is the year the $15 billion industry returns to pre-Great Recession levels.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012  South Carolina's state parks are on target to become self-supporting after a year in which they generated a record $21 million in revenue.

Friday, October 05, 2012  Everyone knows about Myrtle Beach, Charleston and Hilton Head Island as popular tourism destinations.

Wednesday, April 13, 2011  Tuesday's visit was the first to the area by Duane Parrish since he became head of the Department of Parks Recreation and Tourism earlier this year.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011  State tourism director Duane Parrish is in New York City spreading the word about South Carolina's attractions.

Friday, February 25, 2011  Duane Parrish says the state could enjoy record tourism numbers this spring followed by double-digit growth during the next two years. He says things look good because of an improving economy, the spring after a hard winter and travel bargains.

Thursday, February 17, 2011  The Senate voted Thursday to confirm Margaret Barber as juvenile justice director and Duane Parrish to lead the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism.

Friday, January 28, 2011  Governor Nikki Haley appointed her nominee, Duane Parrish of Charleston, for the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Thursday.