Learn How the Commercial
Trucking Insurance Experts at Independence Agency
Can Save your Company Thousands of Dollars!
Get A Quote
The
Importance of
Commercial Truck Insurance in Anderson, SC
- Let's face it - truckers in America have always been the backbone of our great country. They still are in modern times. On any given day, thousands of trucks traverse our highways and local roads, delivering goods and products on time so that businesses and consumers have what they need to live life. And while commercial trucking can be an incredibly lucrative way to make a living and put food on the table, it can also be risky and expensive.
- Whether you're the owner of a fleet, an independent trucker, or have a business that uses big rigs to transport goods, you need commercial trucking insurance to protect you and your client's investments, shield you from liability, and more.
- That's where working with a reliable truck insurance agency comes into play. Unfortunately, for many commercial truck insurance providers, serving the needs of truckers is low on the proverbial totem pole. At Independence Insurance Agency, nothing could be further from the truth.
Service Areas
The Commercial Truck
Insurance Agency in Anderson, SC You Can Trust
Much like you pride yourself on running a successful trucking business, Independence Insurance Agency prides itself on its years of experience providing truck insurance for hardworking men and women across the country. And in our experience, insurance rates for truckers are just too high - so high, in fact, that they eat away at their bottom line, making it more difficult to run a business and make a profit. Fortunately, at Independence Insurance Agency, we provide truckers the freedom they need from astronomically high insurance rates so they can stay on the road and keep driving America forward.
As one of the most trusted commercial trucking insurance agencies in the U.S., we understand the challenges that you face daily as a trucker. We also know how important it is to protect your business. That's why we go above and beyond to find you the best-priced coverage available, whether you're an operator, own a small fleet, a large fleet, or something in between.
We Put Truckers First Because Others Don't
Truckers across the country choose to work with Independence Insurance Agency because we put their needs first before anything else. As experts in transportation insurance, we proudly offer a range of quality insurance products that are both practical and affordable for them. Our industry-leading carriers provide coverage that caters to the unique challenges faced by the trucking industry, ensuring that your business is protected at all times.
At our core, we are committed to finding the best possible price for your coverage without compromising the quality of service you deserve. The truth is, we understand how essential truckers are to the United States and take pride in making their insurance experience more streamlined and affordable.
One way we do so is by simplifying the insurance process. Our transportation specialists take the time to understand your specific needs and budget to tailor a comprehensive plan that works for you. You won't ever have to worry about cookie-cutter plans or uninterested agents when you work with our commercial trucking insurance agency. We take an educational approach to ensure that the entire big rig insurance process is quick, painless, and easy to understand. If there's something you don't understand, we're happy to take the time to explain. After all, the success and safety of your business are on the line.
Looking to the future, we are committed to providing innovative new products that cater to the ever-changing needs of truck drivers. As your one-stop shop for commercial trucking insurance, we are dedicated to your success, one policy at a time.
If you're a commercial trucker looking to ensure your rig, you can rest easy knowing that Independence Insurance Agency provides:
- Affordable Trucking Insurance Plans for Any Budget
- Exemplary Customer Service
- Seasoned Transportation Specialists Who Customize Plans to Your Needs
- A+ Carriers Across the Country
- Simple, Easy Quote and Bind Process
- Multiple Insurance Carriers Quoted to Find You the Best Rates
- Truck Insurance for New Ventures
Call us or send us a message today to learn more about the best 18-wheeler insurance options for your trucking business.
The Commercial Truck
Common Types of Big Rig Truck Insurance in Anderson, SC
At Independence Insurance Agency, we offer several types of insurance coverage for local, intermediate, and long-haul trucking needs. Here are just a few categories of trucking insurance coverage that our agency offers.
As the foundation of your insurance policy, liability coverage is required by law in most states in the U.S. It provides coverage for damage or injuries caused to properties or other people if your 18-wheeler is responsible for the crash. Without liability coverage, it's almost impossible to drive a truck or run a trucking business without major legal consequences.
Having physical damage coverage is an essential component that shouldn't be overlooked. This insurance is responsible for covering the expenses related to repairing or replacing your truck in situations such as accidents, theft, vandalism, and other damaging events. By having this coverage, you can rest assured that your business won't be affected significantly by unexpected incidents, and you can continue running your operations smoothly even in challenging times.
For trucking companies, the goods they transport are crucial to their operations. To protect these goods from damage, loss, or theft while in transit, cargo insurance is essential. This coverage provides much-needed peace of mind for both you and your clients, allowing you to reimburse clients for any losses sustained while protecting your reputation and brand identity.
Non-Trucking Liability Insurance is designed to cover property damage or bodily injury that may occur during personal time when the driver/truck is not under dispatch. This coverage can be applied with or without a trailer and is added to a commercial policy as an endorsement.
While Independence Insurance Agency has built a reputation of excellence in serving the needs of truckers, we also offer general liability. Also known as Truckers General Liability, this coverage insures for bodily injuries or property damage that happen due to business activities that are NOT the cause of operating a truck. It covers accidents that occur in parking lots, rest stops, also while loading or unloading. General liability can also cover losses related to theft and vandalism. Most brokers and shippers will require this coverage to work with you.
Bobtail insurance is a type of coverage that is comparable to non-trucking liability, which is designed to offer protection when driving a truck without a trailer attached. This is commonly referred to as "bobtailing." With bobtail insurance, the tractor is covered at all times, even when it is not attached to a trailer, regardless of whether or not the truck is under dispatch.
Trailer interchange insurance is a must-have if you're involved in a trailer interchange agreement. This essential coverage offers protection for trailers owned by other parties that you're using under a contractual agreement. It covers damages caused by collisions, fire, theft, and vandalism, providing assurance to all parties involved.
Curious whether our commercial truck insurance agency in cityname, state offers additional coverage? The following options can be bound in your insurance policy:
- Business Interruption Insurance
- Reefer Breakdown Insurance
- Occupational Accident with Contract Liability Insurance
- Rental Reimbursement Insurance
- Underinsured or Uninsured Motorist Insurance
- Towing Insurance
- Electronics Insurance
- Much More
3 Safe Driving Tips to
Lower the Cost of Truck Insurance in Anderson, SC
Keeping your drivers safe on the road is crucial not only for their own well-being but also for the safety of other motorists and the financial stability of your business. The Department of Labor has identified the trucking industry as one of the most hazardous sectors in the U.S. In fact, trucking and logistics fleets are known for their high injury and fatality rates. By improving how safely your truckers drive, you can help reduce expenses related to claim payouts, accidents, and insurance premium hikes.
Whether you own a large fleet or you're the owner and operator of a single rig, keep these safe driving tips in mind to help lower your insurance costs.
Implement Preventative Maintenance Plans
Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.
This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.
Call Now
Practice Defensive Driving
This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.
Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:
- Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
- Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
- Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
- Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
Call Now
Find Ways to Prevent Distracted Driving
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.
Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.
Call Now
Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.
This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.
Call Now
This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.
Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:
- Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
- Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
- Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
- Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
Call Now
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.
Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.
Call Now
FAQs About
Independence Insurance Agency
If you're looking for a commercial trucking insurance agency for your business, chances are you have some questions - and we've got answers. Keep reading to learn more about some of the most commonly asked questions we hear from truckers like you.
Why go with a "jack of all trades" when you can work with specialists who focus exclusively on transportation insurance? We have excellent relationships with major trucking insurance carriers and, as such, can provide the best assistance and reasonable rates.
Typically, companies will look at claims that date back three years or less.
We proudly work with more than 20 carriers to provide our clients with the most advantageous options at competitive prices, catering to the needs of owner-operators and big fleets alike.
Permit filings are typically done by insurance companies on the next business day. Federal (FMCSA) filings are completed online and updated immediately, while some states may take up to three weeks to process.
Independence Insurance Agency: Committed to the Trucking Industry
There's no question about it - you've got to protect your staff, your rig, and your trucking business with insurance. But choosing the right insurance partner isn't always easy. Thankfully, with Independence Insurance Agency by your side, you can rest easy knowing you're covered no matter where the road takes you. If you're in need of a commercial truck insurance agency in Anderson, SC that caters to truckers like you, pick up the phone and contact one of our transportation specialists today. That way, you can get back on the road with confidence tomorrow.
Latest News in Anderson, SC
7 Holiday Light Driving Tours: Upstate, SC
Kristina Hernandezhttps://kiddingaroundgreenville.com/driving-routes-greenville-christmas-lights
Do you want to go for a Christmas light drive around the Upstate and see all the best (and free!) home displays? Have you seen long lists ofChristmas light displays? Are you overwhelmed by the holidays this year? We’ve got seven driving routes for 2023 to help you enjoy the season without a lot of stress since we already did the work for you!Load the family in the car and follow these routes for a super simple yet super special night (or nights) of enjoying Christmas lights together. A massive, massiv...
Do you want to go for a Christmas light drive around the Upstate and see all the best (and free!) home displays? Have you seen long lists ofChristmas light displays? Are you overwhelmed by the holidays this year? We’ve got seven driving routes for 2023 to help you enjoy the season without a lot of stress since we already did the work for you!
Load the family in the car and follow these routes for a super simple yet super special night (or nights) of enjoying Christmas lights together. A massive, massive thank you to Kidding Around reader Jason Hurdich for helping us check homes on our routes. This is an enormous job and we are so grateful.
Disclaimer: Kidding Around is not responsible for property damage, neighborhood safety, or any possible injuries of any kind that may happen while driving, stopping, and viewing holiday lights and decorations. Drivers and property owners maintain all responsibility for general safety, operating a vehicle safely, light-viewing enjoyment, and holiday cheer. Drive slowly, be respectful, share holiday magic, and don’t be a Scrooge.
Submissions are closed for 2023 but if you want to be included in the 2024 list, you can come back and fill out our Holiday Light Display form and be sure to include a photo of your display.
The Kidding Around Upstate, SC Christmas Lights Driving Routes
Greenville, SC Christmas Light Route
Easley, SC Christmas Light Route
Simpsonville, SC Christmas Light Route
Five Forks Christmas Light Route
Spartanburg, SC Christmas Light Route
Greer, SC Christmas Light Route
Anderson, SC Christmas Light Route
Bonus! More lights! Check out our Christmas Lights Driving Tours in Columbia, SC!
While we do our best to offer accurate information, please check with these venues and organizations before visiting. Please help keep Kidding Around free by not copying and reproducing this content without written permission. Please note that things like inclement weather can impact a display status.
If you see more while you are driving around the Upstate, be sure to share the info in the comments of our Holiday Lights List for folks to check out!
Tips For Enjoying The Holiday Light Displays
While there are plenty of paid attractions you can visit with your family, if you are looking for some budget-friendly fun, and admiring the work of homeowners, you have come to the right spot.
We have separated light displays in the Upstate into several easy-to-follow routes. Do them all in one night, or turn them into several nights of fun. Throw your fuzzy jammies on, grab the tumbler of hot chocolate, popcorn, and hit the road.
We have gathered the best of the best in the Upstate to curate this fantastic list. Homes with light shows that include music (and sometimes even hot chocolate and Santa) are included and worth the drive. Here are a few tips to make the most of the routes provided:
Disclaimer: Kidding Around is not responsible for property damage, neighborhood safety, or any possible injuries of any kind that may happen while driving, stopping, and viewing holiday lights and decorations. Drivers and property owners maintain all responsibility for general safety, operating a vehicle safely, light-viewing enjoyment, and holiday cheer. Drive slowly, be respectful, share holiday magic, and don’t be a Scrooge.
2023 Kidding Around Christmas Light Driving Tour Map
Have issues with the map? We have a tutorial to help navigate the map. (this has 2020 tour info and is just posted as a tutorial)
2023 Christmas Light Driving Tours
Addresses on the Greenville route:
Victorian House of Lights
Lights on E. Earle St
Lights on Old Easley Road
Lights of Bethel
Middle Brook Road Christmas
Mini North Pole Extravaganza
Overbrook’s Dazzling Holiday Spectacle
Blue Moon Holiday Bliss on Andrea Lane
Holiday Musical
Addresses on the Easley route:
5 Point Church Display
Cook Family Christmas
Cherish D Lights
Addresses on the Simpsonville Route:
Whitemarsh Christmas
Christmas on Kwikaway
Lights on Shagbark
Santa on Agewood Drive
Holiday Lights On Keswick Trail
Addresses on Five Forks driving route:
Holiday Lights on Fairfield
Gingerbread House
Holiday Lights on Dunrobin Lane
Holiday Lights on Bethel
Pixel Christmas Light Display
Addresses on Spartanburg driving route:
The Christmas House | Inman
The Belcher Family Tradition | Lyman
Nodine Family Christmas Lights | Inman
Wonderland on School Street | Duncan
Wonderland on Walcott
The Ditto Squared Candy Cane Lane
Peck Family Christmas
Sparkling Christmas
Addresses on the Greer route in order of driving route:
Blue Blue Christmas
Christmas Inflatables Fun
Dilworth House
Neighborhood Christmas Lights
Christmas Light Extravaganza
Musical Holiday Fun
Sugar Creek Christmas Lights
BONUS Greer Homes
Greer CPW hosts a house decorating contest every year. This usually comes out in early December.
Addresses on the Anderson route:
Anthony Family Light Display & Christmas Tree Walk
Welcome To Who-Ville
Hamilton Christmas Light Display
Lights of North Avenue
BONUS: No Route Christmas Light Displays
There are several holiday light displays in the Upstate that are too far from any of the routes to be added to them but that we still think you’ll like. They are noted in purple on the map and their addresses and info is below.
Pelzer Light People
These are people who just love the Christmas spirit so much that they literally deck themselves out with lights. They have a specific schedule, which starts on Thanksgiving, so be sure to check it before heading out to see them in Pelzer, SC. In general, they are out every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 7 pm to 9 pm (weather permitting).
Poole Light Show
Ricci’s Christmas Lights
Mush Creek Hill Road Lights
Candy Cane Wonderland in Fountain Inn
A Goucher Christmas Display
Love our content? Get it delivered right to your inbox twice a week with our free newsletter! Sign up here.
2023 Editor’s Picks For Top Holiday Home Light Displays
Here are some of our favorite synchronized displays:
Even More Holiday Home Light Displays
There is no shortage of holiday light displays to be found in the Upstate! For more holiday light displays, check out our list of 50+ Holiday Light Displays across the Upstate and beyond.
Don’t miss the Ultimate Holiday Guide to Greenville, SC, or our Holiday Guide to Spartanburg, SC for even MORE holiday fun. They are packed full of things to do, gift ideas, events, and more!
Please be sure to completely fill out the form, including any online links to information available like dedicated social media pages or posts. The more information we have, the more likely your home will be included in our content.
If you see more while you are driving around the Upstate, be sure to share the info in the comments of our Holiday Lights List for folks to check out.
Looking for more lights? See what lights are waiting for you in the Midlands in our Christmas Lights Near Columbia, SC list. We also have Christmas Lights Driving Tours in Columbia.
SC may get another Buc-ee’s. This interstate needs at least $60M in improvements first
Lyn Riddlehttps://www.thestate.com/news/state/south-carolina/article284660040.html
The cult classic gas station Buc-ee’s owns land in Anderson County but don’t expect to see the Texas icon anytime soon.Major improvements — as in a whole new configuration of the access ramps — must be completed before there’s any thought of the gas station being built.Steve Newton, Anderson County’s governmental affairs director, said traffic is already bad at the Interstate 85 interchange with LIberty Highway and improvements are needed whether Buc-ee’s was coming or not.Buc-ee...
The cult classic gas station Buc-ee’s owns land in Anderson County but don’t expect to see the Texas icon anytime soon.
Major improvements — as in a whole new configuration of the access ramps — must be completed before there’s any thought of the gas station being built.
Steve Newton, Anderson County’s governmental affairs director, said traffic is already bad at the Interstate 85 interchange with LIberty Highway and improvements are needed whether Buc-ee’s was coming or not.
Buc-ee’s opened in Florence in May 2022, South Carolina’s first. It was such a big deal Gov. Henry McMaster showed up for the grand opening.
Buc-ee’s founder Arch “Beaver” Aplin told The State the company received 6,000 applications for 300 jobs in Florence, where the minimum pay is $18 an hour and nearly $30 for managers.
Alpin told WYFF recently construction in Anderson wasn’t planned to start for more than a year with a 2026 opening.
Spokesperson Rachel Austin said Alpin confirmed the Anderson store is being designed to be 74,000 square feet, among the largest in the chain. The largest now is in Sevierville, Tennessee, at 74,000 square feet.
“This spring Buc-ee’s will be opening a travel center in Luling, Texas, that will reclaim the title, sitting at 75,000 square feet.,” she said.
Newton said vehicles back up on the ramps now, especially during rush hour and on the southbound ramp which comes from Greenville. The backup sometimes extends onto the highway.
South Carolina Department of Transportation engineers say the current standard ramp design is outdated. Some 22,000 cars flow through there daily.
Newton said a two-lane double diamond configuration is needed to spread the traffic out.
It will cost $60 million to $70 million. The county had hoped to receive funds from the state Infrastructure Bank to bear most of that cost, but herd Thursday they won’t be able to assist in the upcoming funding round.
The funding this year will only be for rural areas and that exit doesn’t qualify.
“We are actively pursuing other funding sources and are confident we can secure the funding we need in a timely manner,” Newton said..
Newton said the interchange includes two manufacturing plants, residences and an under development business park. The land Buc-ees owns is undeveloped.
Alpin started Buc-ee’s in 1982 as a typical small convenience store in his hometown of Lake Jackson an hour south of Houstin. The name comes from his childhood nickname and his dog Buck. Alpin is known as Beaver.
In Texas, where Buc-ee’s has 34 stores, its economic impact is $641 million with 5,000 employees. The company now has 47 stores in the Southeast and Missouri.
Bon Appétit magazine deemed it “the best rest stop in America,”
In 1985, Aplin and Don Wasek joined forces. In 2006, the big stores — 17,000 square feet or so — began and a key advertising slogan was clean restrooms — “cleanest restrooms in America!”
Their motto remains “clean, friendly, and in stock.”
This story was originally published January 25, 2024, 8:45 AM.
Anderson County new business roundup: Mobile coffee shop, sports bar and grill, antiques.
Independent Mailhttps://www.independentmail.com/story/life/food/2023/10/19/anderson-county-businesses-flos-cafe-coffee-barkery-bistro-pets-wake-bake-grill-gameday-antiques/71029494007/
Local businesses are the heart and soul of Anderson County. Everything from coffee shops and bakeries to restaurants and antique shops.Local businesses provide a unique and diverse array of offerings to the community. As the county and the Upstate SC region continue to grow, new businesses continue to emerge. On top of providing new shopping and dining opportunities, they also improve the local job market and the overall economy.Christopher Cheek, owner of At Last Antiques and Collectibles, said "I love the ...
Local businesses are the heart and soul of Anderson County. Everything from coffee shops and bakeries to restaurants and antique shops.
Local businesses provide a unique and diverse array of offerings to the community. As the county and the Upstate SC region continue to grow, new businesses continue to emerge. On top of providing new shopping and dining opportunities, they also improve the local job market and the overall economy.
Christopher Cheek, owner of At Last Antiques and Collectibles, said "I love the support of local businesses because it supports the local community."
Here's a roundup of just a few of the newer businesses in Anderson County:
Flo's Cafe provides coffee, more for Anderson residents
Lauryn Kinsley, 21, is the founder and owner of Flo's Cafe. The mobile coffee shop sells coffee, espresso beverages and designer cups.
Kinsley said, "Flo's Cafe of Anderson doesn't currently have a permanent location." "Flo's is currently in the works of finding a location to semi-permanently pop up at on Tuesdays."
Kinsley mentioned, "the mobile coffee shop of wheels pops up on the weekends at different businesses, festivals and events."
Kinsley launched her mobile coffee shop in 2022, traveling to different locations and serving coffee and espresso beverages to the community.
Kinsley noted, "she was the first mobile coffee shop in Anderson." Kinsley said Flo's was planned to be a juice bar, but after trial and error, she decided to focus on coffee instead.
Kinsley said she began her career as a barista in Greenville.
"I knew all the coffee tools and how to make the perfect cup, so it made more sense for me to do something I already knew," she said.
According to Kinsley, her inspiration comes from her late grandmother, Ms. Mary Flo. Her long-term goal is to create a brand that honors her grandmother, by connecting with people and inspiring and empowering others to follow their dreams.
"She was my best friend and full of wisdom," Kinsley said.
Kinsley said her plan is to stay mobile.
"I enjoy traveling to my customers," she said. " I think starting small and working your way up is a smart idea for aspiring entrepreneurs."
Barkery Bistro for all your pets' needs
Mishelle Shump and her son, JJ Shump, opened the first Barkery Bistro in Greenville in 2021.
In July, their operations expanded to Anderson at 1815 Greenville Street. According to the Barkery Bistro website, a third location is coming soon to Clemson.
Barkery Bistro specializes in making dog cakes. However, they also provide grooming services and sell pet supplies, such as collars, leashes and dog food.
The flagship Greenville location at 2123 Augusta Street opened when the Shumps discovered a family-run pet shop struggling to remain open, said Mishelle Shump, a retired preschool teacher.
"We always wanted to do something together and we both love dogs," she said.
Since 2021, the Shumps have expanded from two groomers to three with plans to add a fourth groomer when the Clemson store opens.
"The Anderson community has really embraced Barkery Bistro, from spreading the word to supporting both locations. Our customers are amazing and we couldn't do it without them," Mishelle Shump said. "Our long-term goal for Barkery Bistro is to continue to grow the business with the help of the community."
Wake and Bake Bar and Grill a gameday destination
Anderson's Wake and Bake Bar and Grill at 4016 Clemson Blvd is owned by Anderson natives Barbie Jackson and Brandy Hamlin.
According to Jackson, the bar's name originated in Iowa where they opened their first establishment, Wake and Bake Breakfast Company, in June of 2018.
After five successful years in Iowa, their only wish was to expand to their hometown of Anderson.
In May 2023 that wish came to fruition with Wake and Bake Bar and Grill. The Anderson location is a sports bar and grill featuring traditional bar food, craft cocktails and beers. According to Jackson, "the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it the perfect place to hang out with friends and family."
Jackson said Wake and Bake will also be adding a brunch menu.
"The city of Anderson has welcomed us back home like we never left. We have made so many friends. They have been nothing but kind to us," Jackson said.
Wake and Bake prides itself on being a prime spot to watch televised sports. The Anderson location also features a stage, video games and live entertainment.
"Throughout the building, there are large-screen televisions and a full menu of entrées, drinks, and appetizers," she said.
Wake and Bake Bar and Grill will host a costume party on Friday, Oct. 27. There will be a $200 first-place prize for the best costume and a $10 entry fee at the door. Click here to learn more.
At Last Antiques and Collectibles
At Last Antiques and Collectibles shop is owned by Christopher Cheek and Jackie Cheek and is located at 5409 Highway 76 Suite B in Pendleton.
Christopher Cheek said they are long-time glass collectors with a passion for antiques and collectibles. In the beginning, they bought and sold their products around the Upstate."
"It was always a dream of ours to have our own shop," Christopher Cheek said. "Everybody has welcomed us with open arms. Our ultimate goal is to keep the business local and serve the community."
The family-owned business has made a name for itself in the community with its wide selection of unique items. These items range from glass sculptures to vintage collectibles, gifts and home accent items.
In celebration of the upcoming holiday season, At Last Antiques and Collectibles will hold pop-up shops, featuring discounts up to 60% off.
At Last will also participate in the Eggs Up Grill Truck or Treat on Oct. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Travis Rose covers Anderson County for the Independent Mail. Reach him via email at trose@gannett.com.
“MYSTERY MACHINE” SPOTTED IN COMMUNITY
Anderson Countyhttps://www.andersoncountysc.org/mystery-machine-spotted-in-community/
“On a Peaceful Mission”, Sez GovernmentOver the past several days, Anderson County offices have been receiving phone calls and emails from citizens asking about a spooky-looking van of some sort, seen roaming about the streets in a slow, deliberate manner.Yes, there is a Mystery Machine in our community, but this one doesn’t carry Scooby-Doo and a bunch of Meddling Kids. Instead, this van and its equipment are being used to assess the physical conditions of our county roads.Its mission ...
“On a Peaceful Mission”, Sez Government
Over the past several days, Anderson County offices have been receiving phone calls and emails from citizens asking about a spooky-looking van of some sort, seen roaming about the streets in a slow, deliberate manner.
Yes, there is a Mystery Machine in our community, but this one doesn’t carry Scooby-Doo and a bunch of Meddling Kids. Instead, this van and its equipment are being used to assess the physical conditions of our county roads.
Its mission is not merely to tell us that some roads are bad—we all know that many, many of our roads need fixing. What this strange vehicle will do is help us figure out how much fixing each road needs. Does a particular road just need resurfacing or a full rebuild? Entire road or just sections of it? What kind of shape is the roadbed in?
How does it perform such strange magic? By using space-age technology! No, not Marvin the Martian’s Illudium Pu-36 Explosive Space Modulator, but something almost as neat—LASERS!
As it prowls the countryside on its appointed rounds, the van uses cameras and lasers to measure different deficiencies in the road surface. After the data is collected then it’s analyzed to determine the types of deficiencies and best practice to make repairs. Sometimes, road repairs prove to be only temporary because the true source of the problem isn’t immediately visible to repair crews. Thanks to the work performed by our friendly technological marvel, we’ll be better able to diagnose the problem with a road and address the root cause.
The van will be assessing more than 1,500 lane miles of county road in the coming weeks and months. When it’s done, the data it has collected will be used to help prioritize needs and allow the county to better allocate its road repair budget.
So—no special need to worry if you see our little friend haunting your neighborhood. It is being operated by two nice humans working for Roadway Asset Services, an infrastructure asset and pavement management company working for Anderson County. The van is on a friendly mission and is there to serve you, as are all of us here with the Anderson County government.
RAS Scanning Anderson County Roads: https://youtu.be/XDhywSkf2Ag
When is Buc-ee’s coming to Anderson County?
Brookley Cromerhttps://www.foxcarolina.com/2024/03/28/when-is-buc-ees-coming-anderson-county/
ANDERSON, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - A supersized gas station is coming to Anderson County, but don’t plan on getting your Beaver Nuggets, brisket sandwiches, or world-famous beef jerky anytime soon.That’s because major road improvements need to happen first.Buc-ee’s plans to build its first Upstate location on US 178, off Exit 21 on I-85.“Buc-ees is a big deal, believe it or not. It’s a big enterprise that’s going to hire hundreds of people. They can go anywhere, but they’ve chosen t...
ANDERSON, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - A supersized gas station is coming to Anderson County, but don’t plan on getting your Beaver Nuggets, brisket sandwiches, or world-famous beef jerky anytime soon.
That’s because major road improvements need to happen first.
Buc-ee’s plans to build its first Upstate location on US 178, off Exit 21 on I-85.
“Buc-ees is a big deal, believe it or not. It’s a big enterprise that’s going to hire hundreds of people. They can go anywhere, but they’ve chosen to come to this part of South Carolina,” South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham said.
This month, Sen. Graham announced that Anderson County will receive $5 million in federal funding to fix the I-85 interchange at US 178, where Buc-ee’s is set to be built.
“They came here because we’re going to make the infrastructure available to them to be successful,” Sen. Graham said.
Anderson County Governmental Affairs Director Steve Newton said the South Carolina Department of Transportation is requiring the improvements be made before the Buc-ees stops here.
“The interchange is deficient as it is now. It can not reasonably accommodate a large traffic jam. It certainly would be irresponsible to approve a large traffic generator right there at that intersection given the condition of the interstate, so that’s why this work would need to be done in order for Buc-ee’s to be at this location,” Newton said.
Neighbor Harald Smit agrees, “I drive it every week. I think if there’s no Buc-ee’s it’s going to be okay, but if you get a Buc-ee’s they need to make things wider and add more lanes, I think.”
DOT engineers are proposing the diverging diamond design to help handle the extra 5,000 cars Buc-ee’s will bring each day.
“This type of system really facilitates smooth flow of traffic, both going north and south and on Liberty Highway, but also managing all of these thousands of vehicles that are accessing Liberty Highway from I-85,” Newton said.
In a statement to FOX Carolina, a spokesperson with SCDOT said, “This project is in the early stages, and SCDOT has done some preliminary engineering work in the area with funding provided by the County. Additional funds will need to be identified to complete the project.”
The County hopes to secure the remainder of the $70 million needed for the project in the next four months, with a mix of federal, private, and mostly state funds.
Buc-ee’s is also chipping in.
“Buc-ee’s is providing some funding toward this project. I’m not comfortable sharing the amount right now, but it is significant,” Newton said.
The gas tax from Buc-ee’s is expected to bring in millions each year.
“Buc-ee’s will have 100 gas pumps, and it will sell gas that will help generate more than $5 million each year in gas tax revenue,” Newton said.
Newton said funding this project would not take away money needed for other roads in Anderson County.
“Any funding that is used for this project would come from sources that would not be available for local road paving, road resurfacing projects, anything like that. Several grants are available through different sources to help us do a project with economic development significance such as this. Unfortunately, those funds are not available for local road paving improvement projects. This would not take one dime away from money that could have been used for paving local roads, not one,” Newton said.
Construction on the interchange is expected to get underway in the summer of 2025. According to the DOT, it will take between 18 and 24 months to complete.
“When Buc-ee’s comes here, it will be a big deal. It will improve the quality of life. It will bring jobs we don’t have today. Improving that interchange is not just about Buc-ee’s. There are other businesses that can go into that area,” Sen. Graham said.
Copyright 2024 WHNS. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer:
