Celebrating 250 Years Through Storytelling
Dear Viewers and Listeners,
As President of South Carolina ETV and SC Public Radio, I believe America's 250th birthday offers a meaningful opportunity for all of us to reflect on the shared ideals, sacrifices and stories that have shaped our nation and our state. This historic milestone is both a time to honor our past and a chance to strengthen the connections that unite us as South Carolinians and Americans. Through education, storytelling and community engagement, we hope to inspire conversations that celebrate our collective history, encourage understanding and remind us of the enduring spirit that continues to bring communities together across our country. This month's lineup offers something for everyone.
As South Carolina ETV and SC Public Radio prepare to commemorate America's 250th anniversary, July programming and events invite audiences across the state to reflect on the people, places and moments that shaped our nation's story. On July 1, SCETV will host a full day of America 250 events beginning with a live recording of Walter Edgar's Journal, featuring discussions on South Carolina's role in the American Revolution and statewide commemorations tied to the nation's founding. That evening, guests will gather for The Southern Campaign: A Revolutionary Evening, featuring clips from Ken Burns' The American Revolution, a screening of SCETV's new documentary The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution, and a discussion with historians examining the battles and leaders that helped change the course of the war in the South.
The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution premieres July 2 at 8 p.m. on ETV, while Independence Day programming continues with a marathon of The American Revolution beginning July 4 at 11:30 p.m. on ETV, and special broadcasts including Carolina Celebration of Liberty 2026 at 7 p.m. on ETV and America Made In Virginia: 250 Years Together at 8 p.m. on ETV. Additional America at 250 programming will air throughout the month on ETV and the South Carolina Channel.
July also brings back two annual SCETV initiatives that support education and community engagement across the state: The Palmetto Pencil Project teacher supply drive and CTRL+ALT+CREATE, SCETV's free family event celebrating learning, creativity and digital engagement. Meanwhile, Sound Shift, SC Public Radio's new 24/7 streaming music channel, is now available for listening through the SCETV app, the SC Public Radio website and smart speakers.
Thank you for your generous and continued support! Together, these programs, events and shared experiences reflect the connections and conversations that continue to shape communities across South Carolina while honoring 250 years of the American story.