TODAY'S HEADLINES | MARCH 14, 2012

Caterpillar to add 80 jobs in Sumter

Building on growing demand for its products, the Peoria, Ill.-based heavy equipment maker said it will invest $20 million to expand its manufacturing facility in Sumter, nearly tripling its square footage. The expansion is scheduled to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2012.

Nick theater seeks $2M for phase two renovations

Phase II of the capital campaign will be used to finish construction of offices and the second-floor theater at its new location on Main Street. The newly renovated first-floor space will be used for the first time this spring at the Indie Grits Festival.

TDL sector cited in driving jobs and economic growth

Business and government leaders who attended the New Carolina TDL Council Summit encouraged a statewide multimodal transportation plan and push for Charleston port deepening.

Columbia airport holding on against ‘Southwest Effect’

It’s been a year since Southwest Airlines launched service to Charleston and Greenville, but Columbia Metropolitan Airport said it hasn’t seen passengers head to the Lowcountry or Upstate to book flights on the low-fare carrier.

BlueCross medical home project expands in Columbia

S.C. BlueCross BlueShield is expanding its patient-centered medical home initiative to eight of Palmetto Health’s physician practices. It is the only insurance company in S.C. starting the program.

Group hopes to launch African American Chamber

A S.C. group of black businesspeople hopes to promote black-owned businesses and black entrepreneurs with the launch of the S.C. African American Chamber of Commerce. The group recently filed its registration paperwork with the S.C. Secretary of State’s office. Since then, more than 2,000 people have inquired about joining.

Job of the Week

IES Labor Services seeks a director of business development. Primary responsibilities will include sales, pursuing growth opportunities and morning dispatching. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree. A background in business or marketing is preferred but not required. Learn more or apply here.