282 Thorpe St, Summerville, SC 29483
Mon-Fri 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
If you own a business, you should already know that at some point, you will need to hire an electrician in Heat Springs to fix electrical issues and maintain your property's wiring systems. Unfortunately, many people forego certified, experienced electricians to save money. The reality is, trying to fix an electrical issue in your business is no small task and often costs more money than hiring a professional. Working with electricity can be dangerous to your property and, more importantly, your health.
It might seem like a good idea to try a DIY approach or call your "do it all" local handyman, but going pro will save you time and money when it comes to serious projects like thermal imaging and three-phase panel installations. Think about it: why spend money buying expensive supplies and countless hours watching electrical repair videos when there's a good chance you'll need professional help in the end? Many DIY electricians have good intentions but often end up damaging electrical systems worse than before.
At Engineered Electrical Solutions, we get the job done right the first time, so you can focus on enjoying running your business while we fix your electrical problem. We bring the same level of quality and reliability to every job we perform, whether it's a routine safety inspection or an entire commercial rewiring project. Unlike some electricians in South Carolina, we go above and beyond to ensure our customers are safe and satisfied with our work. We pride ourselves on keeping customers informed throughout their electrical job and follow up on our projects to make sure our fixes stick.
At the end of the day, excellent customer care is what we strive to achieve. We do so by providing the highest quality commercial services at affordable prices, all year long. Here are just a few reasons why Lowcountry residents trust Engineered Electrical Solutions:
If you're looking for the very best electrician in South Carolina, put down the pen and paper and look no further than Engineered Electrical Solutions. Keep reading to learn more about some of our most popular services.
Having a reliable electrician on hand that you can trust with electrical repairs is of utmost importance when you own a business in South Carolina. For years, Engineered Electrical Solutions has provided business owners with the most effective electrical repair and installation services in the Lowcountry. Our team is adept at assisting businesses of all sizes, from small "mom and pop" shops to industrial plants and everything in between.
We offer a wide range of electrical services, from electrical panel installation and business rewiring to transformer installation and thermal imaging. Modern businesses count on energy-efficient electricity to help run their day-to-day operations. If you need your electrical systems to run smoothly so you can stay focused on building your business, count on Engineered Electrical Solutions to be there when you need us the most.
A few of our most popular commercial and industrial electrical services include but are not limited to:
As a business owner, you know first-hand that closing your doors costs money, time, and possibly your clients. That's why, when you have an electrical issue that must be remedied, you need quick, cost-efficient help so you can keep running your business. But trusting the job of a trained electrician in the hands of an amateur can be a big mistake.
Sure, your uncle may know how to flip a few switches on the breaker in your home, but serving a commercial business is an entirely different animal. In fact, trusting your company's electrical needs to just anyone can end up costing you more in the long run. Here are just a few of the most important reasons to consider hiring an experienced commercial electrical contractor.
Did you know there is a litany of regulations and codes you must follow when servicing electrical components in a commercial setting? From remodels to maintenance, a knowledgeable electrician will know these codes in and out. If they don't, they've got the reference material and support to ensure their work is up to standard. Taking the time to hire a commercial electrical company with vetted technicians means you don't have to worry about legal fines and reprimands for not adhering to regulations associated with common services like commercial lighting installations and upgrades.
In general, a commercial electrical contractor in Heat Springs, SC, must undergo extensive training and pass more tests in order to practice their trade in South Carolina. Like their counterparts in the residential electrical business, they must both pass exams and complete apprenticeships. But commercial electricians have more in-depth training. They must also prove their knowledge of the National Electrical Code, or NEC, which encompasses safety procedures and building codes in the U.S. The advanced training that commercial electricians complete sets the foundation for services such as:
When you break it down to the basics, commercial electricians in the Lowcountry require more experience because of factors like safety, complexity, and reliability. It's not unusual for a contractor to complete over 4,000 hours of on-the-job experience, to learn about complicated topics like voltage and phase balancing, control systems, and phase diagrams.
If you're like most people, you hire professionals like corporate lawyers, helicopter pilots, and commercial electricians to handle the things you don't have the skills to do yourself. Because, if we're being honest, many services provided by commercial electrical contractors are dangerous and even downright deadly. While you can find "How-To" articles that insist that this type of work is simple, taking on an electrical project for your business can have catastrophic consequences - both for your business and for the family you're supporting.
Hiring a commercial electrician for your business safeguards you, your employees, and your business. That's because they're trained to spot commercial electrical hazards and have the tools to fix the problem correctly and according to South Carolina regulations.
Some business owners make it a point to hire non-professionals to handle their electrical work, thinking they'll save money in the long run. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth. Cutting corners and hiring unlicensed friends or family members creates hazards that will set your company back much more than it would to hire a qualified commercial electrician. Mistakes are costly and often end up with you having to close your business while they're corrected. This downtime will affect your ability to do business and may even affect your brand loyalty and customer base.
Energy mismanagement - it's one of the most common ways that businesses lose unnecessary money every year. Though every business in South Carolina will eventually face some sort of energy waste, that doesn't mean you have to settle for expenses you can prevent. At Engineered Electrical Solutions, we're all about supporting our fellow business owners. To help you reduce electrical costs, follow these five tips.
In terms of low-cost solutions, this one is among the best. If you've been using incandescent bulbs throughout your business, try installing compact fluorescents instead. They can last 9x longer and save you money over time. While you're at it, remove any incandescent lights powering exit signs in your building. Replace them with LED alternatives.
Did you grow up in a household where your mom or dad constantly reminded you to turn off the lights when you're done in a room? That same basic principle holds true here. If lights are left on unnecessarily, be sure they're turned off before closing for the day. If you find that doesn't help, you may need to develop a shift-based system to turn off lights. Our team of commercial electricians for your business in cityname, state, have the expertise to help you establish a system to lower energy waste without affecting your company's productivity.
According to the Small Business Administration, HVAC use accounts for nearly 40% of energy use in commercial buildings. It's clear, then, that poor-performing HVAC systems can rack up monthly energy costs quickly. To prevent this from getting out of control, make sure your AC and heating units are well-maintained and free of expensive issues. You may want to also consider installing programmable thermostats, which can automatically control the temperature settings on your property to help maximize your energy savings.
The EPA states that keeping your commercial building properly insulated can save you as much as 10% on your energy bill. Don't settle for obvious areas like walls and windows. Be sure your electrical outlets, pipes, and HVAC ducts are properly insulated too.
At Engineered Electrical Solutions, we can provide you with an energy audit for your business that pinpoints areas of energy waste and how those areas can be improved. Having an electrical assessment is a great idea for any business owner, especially if you have a storefront where customers come and go because it can help lower your overall operational costs.
Commercial and industrial-sized buildings are large and complex by the nature of their construction. By proxy, commercial buildings have complicated wiring and electrical systems. Electrical work in the commercial market is best left to experienced, licensed professionals. If you're looking for the very best commercial electricians in Metro Heat Springs, Engineered Electrical Solutions is here to serve you.
We have completed hundreds of commercial electrician projects for companies like Blue Oyster Restaurant, Shell Gas Stations, Flex Warehouses, Dentist Offices, and many more. With the most up-to-date equipment and years of professional experience, our team is ready to tackle your electrical problem, no matter how large.
Here are just a few of the common electrical issues that we solve for Lowcountry business owners:
Your businesses' electrical system will trip when it has too much electricity running through it. These problems are very common in commercial properties and usually stem from one of three culprits: circuit overloads, short circuits, and ground fault surges. Obviously, when your circuits are tripped regularly, your business operations suffer. To help solve your circuit breaker problems, our commercial electricians will come to your location for in-depth troubleshooting. Once we discover the root cause, we'll get to work on repairing your circuit breaker, so you can continue working and serving your customers.
Like tripped circuit breakers, dimming or flickering lights are among the most common commercial electrical problems in South Carolina. These issues typically stem from poor electrical connections. These poor connections will usually cause sparks, which can start fires and wreak havoc on your commercial building. While dimming lights might seem minor, if you leave this problem to fester, you could be looking at permanent damage to your businesses' electrical systems. Given the danger involved in fixing this problem, it's important that you work with a licensed business electrician like Engineered Electrical Solutions as soon as you're able to.
Dead power outlets aren't always dangerous, unlike other recurring commercial electrical issues. They are, however, disruptive to your company's productivity. Dead outlets are common in older commercial buildings and are often caused by circuit overloads. Connecting multiple high-wattage devices and appliances to the same power socket can cause overheating. When the power outlet overheats, it can lead to tripped circuit breakers. In some cases, the live wire catches fire and burns until it is disconnected. For a reliable solution using high-quality switches, sockets, and circuit breakers, it's best to hire a professional business electrician to get the job done right.
Finding a real-deal, qualified commercial electrician in South Carolina is harder than you might think. Whether it's due to availability or budget, you might be tempted to hire a residential electrician for your commercial electrical problem. While it's true that great residential electricians can help solve commercial issues in theory, it's always best to hire a business electrician with professional experience.
Unlike their residential colleagues, commercial electricians are licensed to deal with different materials and procedures suited specifically for businesses. Commercial wiring is much more complex than other wiring and is strategically installed with maintenance, repair, and changes in mind. Additionally, commercial properties usually use a three-phase power supply, necessitating more schooling, skills, and technical ability to service.
The bottom line? If you're a business owner with commercial electricity problems, it's best to work with a licensed commercial electrician, like you will find at Engineered Electrical Solutions.
Engineered Electrical Solutions has built its reputation on a simple formula: give our customers the highest-quality commercial electrical services, the most helpful customer service, and the best prices available in town.
As a veteran-owned and operated business, we take pride in good old-fashioned hard work and dedication to our craft. No upselling. No misleading fine print. Only quality electrical work and reliable commercial electricians in Heat Springs, SC.
We want to be sure every one of our customers is satisfied, which is why we offer a three-year guaranteed on our labor. If you're in need of a commercial electrician for your business or organization, give our office a call and discover the Engineered Electrical Solutions difference.
843-735-2275
HOT SPRINGS — The Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs is one of 10 museums and libraries being honored with the 2016 National Medal for Museum and Library Service at the White House this week.Mid-America will be represented at Wednesday’s White House ceremony by Executive Director Diane LaFollette and Brian Gehrki, chairman of the museum’s board of directors. The medal is the highest award given to U.S. museums and libraries for service to the community.The museums will be honored by first lady Michelle ...
HOT SPRINGS — The Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs is one of 10 museums and libraries being honored with the 2016 National Medal for Museum and Library Service at the White House this week.
Mid-America will be represented at Wednesday’s White House ceremony by Executive Director Diane LaFollette and Brian Gehrki, chairman of the museum’s board of directors. The medal is the highest award given to U.S. museums and libraries for service to the community.
The museums will be honored by first lady Michelle Obama and by Kathryn Matthew, director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
A member of the community of each recognized institution also will participate in the ceremony and share how the institution has affected his life.
Former Mid-America Science Museum employee Casey Wylie will accompany LaFollette and Gehrki to tell her story.
After graduating from college, Wylie took a position at Mid-America, where she had volunteered in her youth. At the museum, she brought innovative science programming to children at 15 schools across Arkansas.
Wylie said she had been disillusioned by the education system, but she credits her time working at Mid-America with reigniting her passion for teaching, a news release said.
She is now a fifth-grade science teacher pursuing a master’s degree in teaching, and she has taken the museum-style approach to teaching science in her classroom.
“If I hadn’t been at the Mid-America Science Museum, I never would’ve become a teacher. The experience of being a hands-on educator at the museum reawakened my passion for working with children and helping them make discoveries,” Wylie said in the release.
The other 2016 National Medal for Museum and Library Service recipients are:
Brooklyn Public Library, Brooklyn, N.Y.
The Chicago History Museum.
Columbia Museum of Art, Columbia, S.C.
Lynn Meadows Discovery Center for Children, Gulfport, Miss.
Madison Public Library, Madison, Wis.
North Carolina State University, Raleigh, N.C.
Otis Library, Norwich, Conn.
Santa Ana Public Library, Santa Ana, Calif.
Tomaquag Museum, Exeter, R.I.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Its mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement.
A vacation isn’t a vacation without a little rest and relaxation. Whether you prefer to spend your time off summiting mountains, sampling local cuisine, or visiting historical sights, every good trip should include some uninterrupted R&R time. You can book a spa treatment or indulge in a lazy morning of room service in bed, but if you&rsq...
A vacation isn’t a vacation without a little rest and relaxation. Whether you prefer to spend your time off summiting mountains, sampling local cuisine, or visiting historical sights, every good trip should include some uninterrupted R&R time. You can book a spa treatment or indulge in a lazy morning of room service in bed, but if you’re looking for something a little less subtle—and a little more unique—a visit to one of the South’s many natural hot springs might be in order.
Hot springs are one of Mother Nature’s greatest gifts to the world. When magma or hot rock deep in the Earth’s crust causes groundwater to reach a certain temperature, it often bubbles to the surface of the Earth in the form of hot springs. For thousands of years, people have been using hot springs for medicinal purposes, bathing, and even as supposed fountains of youth. And while we know a lot more about the science behind these natural wonders than we did before, one thing that hasn’t changed is our love for them. If you’re ready to feel fully restored by the mystical healing powers of a hot spring, check out these seven locations. Set in gorgeous scenic parks or built into stunning resort settings, these are the best Southern hot springs for a seriously satisfying soak.
01
Located just 90 minutes from the Washington/Baltimore metro, this tiny West Virginia town has dubbed itself “America’s First Spa” thanks to its famous natural hot springs. Wade in the ancient stone pools at Berkeley Springs State Park, where spa services and soaking options abound. The Main Bathhouse’s private Roman Bath features 750 gallons of mineral water straight from the spring heated to 102 degrees. Once you’ve gotten a good soak in, be sure to explore the rest of the park to see more of the natural mineral springs and take in the gorgeous mountain views.
02
These historic hot springs in Hot Spring, Virginia, have been in use since at least 1761, when they were first opened to the public, and likely were used long before then. Today the springs are managed by the Omni Homestead Resort, who are committed to maintaining their historical integrity and keeping them in operation. After a $4 million renovation, the multisided bath houses are once again open to anyone looking for a historically good soak. Reservations are required, and guests can choose between gender-specific soaks, adult co-ed soaks, and family soaks for at a rate of $25 for 50 minutes.
03
Choose between two places to soak in this small Western North Carolina town. The Hot Springs Resort and Spa features 100 acres of uninterrupted beauty. The resort pumps jetted hot tubs full of the famous mineral water and places them all along the tranquil banks of Spring Creek and the French Broad River, so you can reserve your own personal oasis by the hour. If you choose to stay on property, many of the cabins and suites come equipped with their own private mineral tubs. At nearby Broadwing Farm, you can choose to rent one of three cabins all equipped with a private mineral water hot tub.
04
For the quintessential Southern hot springs experience, put Hot Springs National Park in central Arkansas on the top of your Southern Wonders bucket list. The park is known for its stellar outdoor adventure thanks to its location in the Ouachita Mountains on the Ouachita River. But the biggest draw is the 4,000-year-old spring water found in its natural state. To experience the famous thermal water, pick between two in-park bathhouses: the Buckstaff Bathhouse and the Quapaw Bathhouse.
05
Known for its endless acres of mountainous desert terrain and otherworldly rock formations, Big Bend is a certified geological wonder that has been dazzling outdoor enthusiasts for more than 80 years. But when trail-worn Big Bend hikers want to take a load off, they all know exactly where to go. The park’s Hot Springs Historic District is home to a large outdoor hot springs tub that’s made by the remnants of the old Langford Bathhouse dating back more than 100 years. Visitors can throw on a swimsuit and sit for as long as they please in the pleasant 105-degree water.
06
For a uniquely Florida hot springs experience, consider Warm Mineral Springs Park in North Port. The famous springs there take the form of a giant single pool that was formed 30,000 years ago by a giant sinkhole and measures 200 feet deep. Visitors can soak, swim, and even scuba dive in the deeply mystical waters. It’s the perfect place to bring the entire family for a day of fun in the sun with ever-pleasant 85-degree water to cool down in should you overheat.
Note: At time of publish, the park was closed for maintenance due to damage from Hurricane Ian with a projected reopening in March 2023.
07
This third-generation family-owned resort in eastern West Virginia is like summer camp for the entire family. With 4,700 acres of breathtaking scenery, a plethora of accommodations, and nearly every amenity and activity under the sun, there’s something for everyone at Capon Springs. To experience the restorative waters of Capon Springs, book an appointment in property’s Hygei Bath House & Spa, where you can choose from three soaking tubs, each featuring 102-degree water pulled directly from the natural springs.
Thousands of years ago, our country’s earliest inhabitants used the nourishing powers of mineral water to heal a variety of ailments. Today, hot (or warm) springs are delightful places to relax, reconnect with nature, and nourish your body and mind. Soaking in spring water is reported to help with circulatory illnesses, increase oxygen flow, and alleviate muscle, joint, and skin issues. From lush resorts to rustic, small-town parks, here are five hot springs to check out.Located just outside of Asheville, this small NC town&rsqu...
Thousands of years ago, our country’s earliest inhabitants used the nourishing powers of mineral water to heal a variety of ailments. Today, hot (or warm) springs are delightful places to relax, reconnect with nature, and nourish your body and mind. Soaking in spring water is reported to help with circulatory illnesses, increase oxygen flow, and alleviate muscle, joint, and skin issues. From lush resorts to rustic, small-town parks, here are five hot springs to check out.
Located just outside of Asheville, this small NC town’s hot springs were first discovered by Native Americans, whose presence dates back nearly 5,000 years. Since 1778, the town has shared the benefits of its spring water with locals and visitors alike. The mineral baths have moved to several locations since the early 1800s, and you can still visit the ruins of a bathhouse from the 1860s. Whether you want to stay the night with a loved one or simply make use of the waters to relieve pain and stiffness, Hot Springs Resort & Spa offers immense relaxation, along with a selection of cabin and campsite rentals!
Book a 90-minute Signature Tub session, and you get a fire, robes, towels, and bottled water! Image: NC Hot Springs Resort & Spa via Facebook
Hot natural mineral water constantly flows through the jetted hot tubs from deep inside the earth. The resort has tactfully built the tubs into gorgeous wooden decks tucked away along the scenic Spring Creek and French Broad River. Open seven days a week, you can enjoy the mineral baths hourly, starting at $50 for two. Reservations are required, and you can plan your visit here.
Hot Springs, Arkansas, is home to Hot Springs National Park and a thermal springs “hot spot.” From 1880 until 1950, the town flourished as a health destination, peaking in 1946 when one million baths were taken. The development of modern medicine ushered a decline in bathhouse patronage, but Hot Springs’ “Bathhouse Row” continues to thrive today.
The massive indoor baths at Quapaw Baths & Day Spa are a popular spot on the row. After a day of sightseeing and exploring in the lively Hot Springs area, there’s no better way to unwind than in a world-famous mineral bath.
The Allegheny Mountains’ two main natural springs run through The Omni Homestead Resort. Since their discovery by Native Americans some 9,000 years ago, key Virginia figures like Thomas Jefferson have touted the water’s healing capabilities, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the area each year. According to the resort, the United States Geological Survey determined that these springs are unaffected by changing seasons. They remain at a natural body temperature year-round and flow at an astonishing rate of 1.7 million gallons daily. The waters are packed with minerals but are also so crystal clear you can read a book through them.
You can visit the springs via the resort. Allegheny Springs is a two-acre water park fed by the area’s natural springs. Kids and kids at heart love the park’s two 100-foot water slides, 400-foot lazy river, large outdoor pools, stately 1904-built indoor pool, and cozy whirlpools. But the main attraction for relaxation seekers is the spa’s outdoor, naturally warm, spring-fed Serenity Garden Pool. It’s open year-round, so imagine cozying up in a corner of the pool with a hot tea and a book while snow falls around you.
Under two hours from Washington D.C., Berkeley Springs State Park is one of the most historic examples of ancient hot springs still open today. In 1730, the first European settlers learned about the ancient springs that had attracted Indian predecessors from Canada to the Carolinas. Word of the equally mystical and practical natural springs spread far and wide, and soon everyone was flocking to this holistic health mecca.
Within the small state park in the heart of town, you can plop into the idyllic Roman baths, rent a modern jacuzzi tub — both heated to 102 degrees — or swim in the outdoor pool filled with the legendary warm mineral water that flows from the springs at a constant temperature of 74.3 degrees. Today, the springs still discharge about 2,000 gallons of sparkling water per minute from five nearby spring sources.
According to TopHotSprings.com, Florida has 13 natural springs that range from warm (above 68 degrees) to hot (above 84 degrees), but it has dozens more if you count the cool ones, too! One of the warmest, oldest, and most magical of them all is Warm Springs Mineral Park.
A balmy 85 to 87 degrees year-round, it’s said that the immense sinkhole pool was used publically as far back as 30,000 years ago. Reaching 200 feet deep at some points, the spring continuously flows and refills nine million gallons per day. Swim, soak, scuba dive, or opt for a skin treatment or facial to take advantage of the water’s 50 nourishing minerals. It’s no wonder this place is crowned a “Fountain of Youth!”
These hot springs beckon us to ditch the cozy robe and submerge. May the pursuit of this age-defying and mind-calming mineral magic also spark some ancestral education and exploration of parts unknown!
**********
Keep up with the best parts of life in the South. Subscribe to StyleBlueprint!
Sam Pittman’s voice booms around the Grand Hyatt hotel.He’s spent the last hour perched behind a lectern, regaling gathered media members with tales about his Arkansas squad — alon...
Sam Pittman’s voice booms around the Grand Hyatt hotel.
He’s spent the last hour perched behind a lectern, regaling gathered media members with tales about his Arkansas squad — along with a few scattered thoughts. He name-dropped Brian Bosworth. He mistook a man in the crowd for Garth Brooks. He highlighted his Spotify playlist of choice these days (“Hot Springs Yacht Club”). Oh, he also mentioned how he sang on stage with Foreigner last week.
But as Pittman made his way through the car wash-style setup of SEC Media Days, he became semi-reflective and softer in tone when asked about former Arkansas tight ends coach Dowell Loggains.
“He’s obviously got experience,” Pittman told The State. “I’m not for sure on what he’ll want to run, but like I told Shane (Beamer) — he’ll do a good job. He’s a good recruiter and wish him well.”
There was almost a somberness to the way Pittman spoke about Loggains on Wednesday. It’s not so much that there’s love lost. Granted, losing an assistant coach to another SEC squad certainly has its downsides. Where the disappointment resides is as much in how beloved Loggains was during his time at Arkansas.
Those close to South Carolina’s new offensive coordinator will tell you similar things. He’s down to earth. He’s easygoing. He’s relatable. Those things play in college football. Need proof? Take Arkansas quarterback K.J. Jefferson’s word for it.
While Loggains spent the bulk of his time working with tight ends in Fayetteville, Jefferson picked his brain on footwork tips and how his game could translate to the NFL level. That came with its share of comparisons.
“His experience coaching in the league and being around great quarterbacks like Vince Young (was great),” Jefferson said Wednesday. “Having a guy on your staff like that that can really teach you and tell you what you can expect at the next level was a blessing.”
Well meanings and positivity aside, Loggains still enters his first year in Columbia as a semi-unknown at the college level. He spent almost two decades in the NFL as a play-caller before a three-month stint at Penn State and two years coaching tight ends under Pittman. Now he’s tasked with finding some semblance of consistency in the post-Marcus Satterfield era at USC.
What Loggains’ offense actually looks like remains to be seen. Pittman noted Loggains learned bits and pieces from the spread offense ex-Arkansas offensive coordinator Kendal Briles installed. Combine that with the pro elements from Loggains’ long tenure in the NFL and his South Carolina offense ought to take on varying shapes from the two ideologies.
Speaking with The State last month, quarterback Spencer Rattler noted there’s some similarities to what Satterfield drew up, but noted tongue-in-cheek we’d have to wait until Week 1 to see specifics.
“I think he brought ideas,” Pittman said. “I think a little bit of what (Briles) was doing was not what he had done in the league, if that makes sense. So that’s why I say I’m not positive what he wants to do. But whatever he wants to do, he’ll have the knowledge to do it.”
Rattler will assuredly be focal point for South Carolina’s offense in 2022. Antwane “Juice” Wells Jr. — the SEC’s leading returning receiver — also figures to be in the center of the equation. Throw in a face familiar to Loggains in former Arkansas tight end Trey Knox, who’s oozing with All-SEC potential, and the building blocks are there for a more steady product in 2023.
“I feel like he was a physical guy,” Arkansas running back Raheim “Rocket” Sanders said of Knox. “Very physical guy and not scared to block and do blocking things. He knew the plays. Great guy. Could catch. He loved to play any position.”
Added Jefferson about Knox: “Great young man. Very mature. Very vocal. He’s a leader. Wants to see the best out of each and everybody, especially his teammates. He just loves to work and loves to grind.”
South Carolina’s season opener slotted for Sept. 2 in Charlotte against North Carolina remains 45 days away. Short of a handful of practice viewing sessions throughout fall camp, that contest will offer the first real look at Loggains’ offense in action.
For now, it’s best to take Pittman at his word — and that should make fans in and around Columbia plenty excited.
This story was originally published July 19, 2023, 5:06 PM.
Though it only took six days to shoot on location in the woods of the North Carolina mountains, “Fire Connects Us In The Dark,” it’s a project that’s years in the making.The first feature film from director Bayly Hunter — shot with twin brother Blake Hunter behind the camera — has been gestating since the pair was in high school. The college-aged Irmo filmmakers arguably have been working up to these sorts of releases since before they were even in elementary school.“We’ve been in...
Though it only took six days to shoot on location in the woods of the North Carolina mountains, “Fire Connects Us In The Dark,” it’s a project that’s years in the making.
The first feature film from director Bayly Hunter — shot with twin brother Blake Hunter behind the camera — has been gestating since the pair was in high school. The college-aged Irmo filmmakers arguably have been working up to these sorts of releases since before they were even in elementary school.
“We’ve been into films since we were probably four,” Blake explained. “We watched ‘Jaws’ a lot, like 100 times.”
A childhood Steven Speilberg obsession quickly consumed the duo and the set to work every weekend creating riffs on whatever movies held their attention. Bayly noted that the quick-hit, backyard films were extremely “derivative,” but they honed their skills on film-making tech that expanded along with their ambitions.
“I can’t remember a time when we weren’t trying to make films,” Bayly shared of those early attempts. “We did a lot of slasher movies because they were easy to make and all you needed was a mask or a costume.”
At Spring Hill High School in Chapin, they pulled together a crew of similarly obsessed, teenaged artists and created the rotating crew of production workers and actors that have populated all of their films. Even after the group parted ways for different colleges and opportunities across the South, they continued to come together to make films and shorts.
Bayly typically worked in front of the camera, acting in productions plotted out by Blake. That changed after Bayly was struck by a disjointed nightmare, while in high school. The vision stuck in Bayly’s brain.
One day in 2020, Bayly took a notepad to the Cayce Riverwalk and got the script down while walking. Then the story took shape over rounds of edits with their long-time collaborators, ultimately leading to a real world trip to the remote town of Hot Springs, located near the Tennessee state line.
This clique of Carolinians returned to the world with the building blocks of “Fire,” a terse and experimental thriller following a camping trip deep in the wilderness. In between unnerving slo-mo shots of insects and red, abstracted moments set to cacophonous jazz, tension builds and builds between the three leads against a relatively tranquil backdrop. At issue is a grudge with roots as deep as the old-growth forest that surrounds them.
The triad of unhappy campers rarely raise their voices above a mumble, but that doesn’t keep the situation from feeling dire. As you might expect from a film set so far out from the world, isolation and the presence of several guns only ratchet up the film’s ever-present and anxious thrum.
“It was never a genre we had really attempted,” Bayly said of the film, noting their tendency toward the experimental and shambling. “Every film we have been doing, it was another step up.”
That latest evolution will be on display at The Nickelodeon Theatre this week. The Hunters will debut “Fire” and a short directed by Blake on Dec. 22 at noon. The event is entirely free and will feature a question session with the filmmakers afterward.
Dec. 22, 12 p.m. Free. The Nickelodeon Theatre. 1607 Main St. nickelodeon.org
