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Retail sales rise a solid 0.5% in July from June as shoppers appear to shrug off tariff pressures

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www.abccolumbia.com – Associated Press – 2025-08-15 10:01:00

SUMMARY: In July, U.S. retail sales rose 0.5%, driven by strong auto dealership purchases despite President Trump’s tariffs causing some price increases and job slowdowns. Auto sales increased 1.6%, normalizing after earlier volatility. Clothing, online, and furniture sales also grew, while electronics and restaurant spending declined. Inflation remained steady at 2.7% annually, with core prices rising 3.1%, above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. Wholesale inflation surged 0.9% in July, signaling rising consumer costs ahead. Retailers like Walmart and Procter & Gamble have raised prices due to tariffs, while some, like Warby Parker, selectively increased prices on premium products to offset higher costs.

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News from the South - South Carolina News Feed

SC ‘Stand Your Ground Law’ explained

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www.youtube.com – WPDE ABC15 – 2025-08-15 04:50:30


SUMMARY: South Carolina’s Stand Your Ground law, highlighted by the 2023 death of Scott Spivey, allows individuals to use force, including deadly force, without a duty to retreat when they reasonably believe they face imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm. The law, part of the Protection of Persons and Property Act since 2006, applies anywhere, not just in homes, and permits defending oneself in cars or businesses. However, it excludes unlawful activities or custody disputes. The law aims to protect personal safety but requires careful, lawful application. Experts advise taking certified weapons classes to understand when force is justified.

In light of recent high-profile cases like the death of Scott Spivey in a 2023 Longs area shooting, discussions have emerged …

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US stocks dip after disappointing inflation data dents hopes for coming cuts to interest rates

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www.abccolumbia.com – Associated Press – 2025-08-14 09:44:00

SUMMARY: Wall Street stocks fell Thursday after a disappointing U.S. wholesale inflation report showed a 3.3% year-over-year rise, exceeding the expected 2.5%. This raised doubts about a Federal Reserve interest rate cut in September, with traders lowering their odds of a cut from 100% to 7.5%. The S&P 500 slipped 0.1%, led by declines in smaller companies, while Big Tech gains, including Amazon’s 2.3% rise, limited losses. Treasury yields rose, reflecting inflation concerns. Despite stronger profits, companies like Tapestry and Deere cut future profit forecasts. Meanwhile, fewer unemployment claims signaled a solid job market, complicating Fed rate decisions.

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Task force on signs of human trafficking

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www.youtube.com – WPDE ABC15 – 2025-08-14 06:40:55


SUMMARY: A human trafficking task force in Horry County faces accusations of failing to stop child trafficking and unlawful conduct toward a child. The case emerged after the death of an 11-year-old, leading to arrests in Myrtle Beach. Two women, McGaskey and Margaret Roberson, were charged with trafficking minors and conspiracy, forcing children into labor cleaning medical facilities. Authorities highlight that signs of trafficking can resemble neglect, such as children missing school or working late. Captain Sherri Smith notes improvements in identifying and investigating trafficking beyond typical abuse cases. A sixth arrest is anticipated as the investigation continues.

Last month, two of the women, McGaskey and Margaret Louise Roberson, were charged with trafficking minors and criminal …

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