Several years ago, when BMW announced that it would build its world-class facility in Spartanburg County, the whole region was abuzz over the influx of new people and interrelated manufacturing business and services. Although BMW made quite a stir when it chose South Carolina, it wasn't the first, and won't be the last, foreign enterprise to build here. More than 500 manufacturing firms call Spartanburg County home. They deal in textiles, food processing and packaging, metalworking and stamping, and of course, automotive and related industries, with names like Michelin, Siemens, Hoechst Celanese and others. Even more significant, more than 100 international firms are here, representing 19 different countries - giving this county the highest per capita international investment of any area in the United States.
Public education is of the highest quality.
Spartanburg County is the birthplace of the National Beta Club, a youth organization founded in 1934 that promotes academic achievement, leadership and service to the community. The Sherman College of Straight Chiropractic draws students from all over the country. The arts are well appreciated here, with performances and events ranging from art shows and the ballet to symphonies and theatre. An amphitheater, nine-hole walking golf course and golf training center nearby are in the works. Aida Rogers has worked in newspapers, magazines, legal newsletters and television.