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Governor Henry McMaster and federal officials from the U.S. Administration for Children and Families (ACF) gathered at the Statehouse yesterday to announce South Carolina’s participation in “A Home for Every Child.” This national initiative seeks to address a critical shortage of foster homes and improve outcomes for children within the welfare system. The program focuses on improving the ratio of available licensed foster homes to the number of children in state care. National data indicates a significant gap, with only 57 licensed homes available for every 100 children entering the system. The initiative aims to close this divide by streamlining…

Ten students from York and Lancaster counties are among the nearly 9,500 graduates set to participate in the University of Georgia’s spring Commencement ceremonies May 7 and 8 in Athens. The Class of 2026 includes 6,537 spring undergraduates, 1,055 expected summer undergraduates, and 1,885 graduate students who have met requirements to walk during the two day celebration. Local graduates include: Fort Mill: Allyssa Lewis, Avery Millo, Caleb Sandler, David Mason Clover: Ashley Atkinson, Charlotte Moore Lake Wylie: Brooke Higgins Rock Hill: Christopher Noble Molnar Indian Land: Megan Johnson Chester: Jordan Knox Ceremony Schedule The graduate ceremonies will take place May…

The Fort Mill School District is proposing a $271,683,055 general fund budget for the 2026 to 2027 school year that would raise starting teacher pay to $54,500 and seek a net 10.5 mill tax increase, district administrators told the Board of Trustees during its May 5 meeting. The proposal calls for an 11.5 mill increase from the maximum allowable 19.7 mills, offset by a one mill reduction in debt service. District officials said the plan would fund items from priority categories 1 through 4 as well as a portion of category 5. A public hearing on the budget will be…

The archer who overshoots his target misses as much as the one who does not reach it. And my eyes trouble me as much when I raise them suddenly to a strong light as when I drop them into the shadow.  Michel de Montaigne. “On Moderation.” In her magisterial work, Wise Blood, Flannery O’Connor creates a wild character by the name of Hazel Motes.  Hazel is convinced that he can begin the “Church without Christ.”  He goes to great lengths and, without ruining the ending if you haven’t read it, he even commits his body for his ‘evangelization.’ In the…

A 70 year old Indian Land hunter has been missing since Saturday, May 2, prompting a multi agency search across hundreds of acres of wooded terrain along the Lancaster and Kershaw county line. Charles Wayne “Charlie” McCoy was last heard from on the day he planned to go turkey hunting in the area off Mudhole Road near Stoneboro Road, southwest of Heath Springs. A family member reported him missing on Monday, May 4, after he failed to show for a scheduled appointment, according to the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office. Vehicles Located, Hunter Still Missing Search teams found McCoy’s white 2024…

Council Defers Highway 160 Drive-Thru Rezoning, Rejects Baxter Golf Cart Ordinance, Passes Contentious FY27 Budget on First Reading 4–3, Adopts Ambulance Franchise Ordinance The May 4, 2026 York County Council meeting was a long and substantive session marked by heavy public turnout, particularly from residents concerned about the QTS data center project and several rezoning cases in the Fort Mill area. Council swore in two new board appointees, recognized county employees and correctional officers, and worked through a 21-item consent agenda with one item pulled for further discussion. In public hearings, Council unanimously approved three rezonings (Cases 26-03, 26-10, and…

The Town of Fort Mill has activated mandatory water conservation rules after the Catawba Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group declared a Stage 2 drought for the region, the Town announced Monday. In a notice posted May 5, the Town said dry conditions are persisting across the Catawba Wateree River Basin despite recent rainfall, prompting the regional advisory group to escalate from voluntary to mandatory conservation. Under Town of Fort Mill Code of Ordinances Section 36 73, all water customers are now required to limit non essential water use. Required Conservation Measures The Town is directing residents and businesses to limit…

Congressman James E. Clyburn issued a defense of student activism at South Carolina State University, drawing parallels between current protests and his own arrests during the 1960s Civil Rights movement. Clyburn criticized the Lieutenant Governor’s characterization of students as a “woke mob,” arguing that peaceful demonstration is a constitutional right and a sign of independent thinking rather than a lack of readiness. His statement serves as a rebuke to state legislators currently threatening to defund the institution over the commencement dispute.  The full statement is provided below:  “On Friday, May 8, I plan to join my surviving classmates from the…

The Lancaster County School District is excited to announce the induction of  Shirnetha Belk, Suzan Courtney, Paul McKenzie, and Reo King into the Education Hall of Fame. Shirnetha Belk taught in LCSD for thirty-four years beginning her career at Erwin Elementary School in 1975 and later served at Barr Street Junior High School, Buford Middle School, and Eastside Academy.  Yokima Cureton Perez shared, “As her first principal and a long-time friend, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power she brings to education-a power that transcends the classroom to profoundly impact the lives of children and adults alike.” Suzan Courtney taught…

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed a second measles case in a Saluda County adult related to the initial case reported April 17. The first case was the result of international travel, and the second case was a known exposure of that case who had been in quarantine since April 17. No public exposures from this second case occurred. The individual’s vaccination history is unknown. Currently there is no one isolating, and 39 individuals remain in quarantine through May 9. “All measures to limit this initial exposure and prevent further cases have been successful…

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that two raccoons and one skunk from different counties have tested positive for rabies. A raccoon from Aiken County was found near Archie Ware Road and Dessert Palm Lane in Ridge Spring, S.C. One person was exposed and has been referred to their health care provider. A raccoon from Lancaster County was found near Major Evans and JB Denton roads in Lancaster, S.C. No people are known to have been exposed at this time. Three dogs were exposed and will be quarantined per the Rabies Control Act. A…

While spring brings a welcome renewal to the landscape, it also heralds the return of a less invited guest: the carpenter bee. Though these industrious pollinators are essential to the ecosystem, their habit of boring into decks and eaves makes them a persistent challenge for homeowners looking to protect their property. Often mistaken for bumblebees, carpenter bees are distinguished by their shiny, hairless black abdomens. Unlike bumblebees, which nest in the ground, carpenter bees are biological drillers. Females use their powerful mandibles to create perfectly circular, half-inch holes in softwoods like cedar, pine, and redwood. These entry points lead to…

The Humane Society of York County is featuring two adoptable animals this week: a sphinx like cat named Broccoli and a young hound mix named TruFru. Both pets are available at the shelter at 8177 Regent Parkway in Fort Mill, where staff say intake has been heavy as the rescue moves into May. Cat of the Week: Broccoli Broccoli is a striking shorthaired cat with a long nose and narrow head, giving him the appearance of a sphinx. The roughly one year old came to the shelter as an owner surrender through no fault of his own. Staff describe him…

The Keith Corporation has unveiled plans for the final phase of Legacy Park East in Rock Hill, a 178 acre tract that will accommodate up to roughly 1.7 million square feet of Class A industrial space across three buildings. The Charlotte based developer is marketing the site for sale or lease, with space available in increments ranging from 100,000 square feet to 1 million square feet. Frampton Construction will serve as the project’s general contractor. Three Buildings on 178 Acres According to the developer’s marketing materials, the master plan includes three buildings: Building 1: a 387,500 square foot rear load…

The Carolinas sit atop the largest share of a newly mapped lithium reserve that federal scientists say could replace more than three centuries of U.S. lithium imports, an announcement that arrived just weeks after a Cleveland County lithium mine roughly 45 minutes from Tega Cay cleared its final federal permitting hurdle. The U.S. Geological Survey released the assessment April 28, estimating that the Appalachian region contains 2.3 million metric tons of undiscovered, economically recoverable lithium. Of that total, 1.43 million metric tons of lithium oxide is concentrated in the southern Appalachians across the Carolinas, with the remaining 900,000 metric tons…

A group of South Carolina state representatives has called for the removal of funding for South Carolina State University after the institution rescinded a commencement speaking invitation to Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette. In a formal letter to Ways and Means Committee Chair Bruce Bannister, lawmakers characterized the university’s decision as shameful and urged that the school be excluded from the state’s upcoming budget. The controversy began when SC State withdrew its invitation to Evette following student protests. Student groups argued that the Lieutenant Governor’s political platform did not align with the values of the historically Black university. University officials cited…

Lancaster County food service establishments posted strong overall results in April 2026, with nearly all inspected businesses earning top marks. Of the 65 inspections conducted by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture during the month, one establishment received a B grade and one received a C grade — both involving the same business, Nizam Bistro, a food truck operating in Indian Land. All other inspected establishments across Lancaster, Indian Land, Kershaw, Fort Mill, Fort Lawn, and surrounding communities received A grades during the month. Summary of Below-A Grades Establishment Address Score / Grade Insp. Date Later Upgraded Nizam Bistro 4374…

York County food service establishments posted a strong overall performance in April 2026, with the overwhelming majority of businesses earning top marks from the South Carolina Department of Agriculture. Of the 307 inspections conducted across the county during the month, seven establishments received B grades and none received a C or lower. The month’s inspections spanned restaurants, school cafeterias, convenience stores, entertainment venues, food trucks, and specialty food operations across Fort Mill, Rock Hill, York, Clover, Tega Cay, Lake Wylie, Sharon, and surrounding communities. Summary of B Grades Establishment Address Score / Grade Insp. Date Later Upgraded Akahana Asian Bistro…

Tournament officials have officially unveiled the star-studded field for the 2026 Truist Championship, scheduled for May 6–10 at the prestigious Quail Hollow Club. As one of only eight Signature Events on the PGA TOUR, this tournament promises elite competition, and the Tega Cay Sun will be onsite to provide comprehensive coverage of the action. The 72-player field features a powerhouse lineup, including eight of the world’s top 10 golfers. Highlighting the roster is World No. 2 Rory McIlroy, who arrives at Quail Hollow seeking a record-extending fifth tournament title following his recent successful defense at the Masters. He is joined…

LANCASTER COUNTY, SC — A new economic impact study finds that the Haile Gold Mine, the only operating gold mine east of the Mississippi River, generates $634 million in annual economic activity across the six county region that includes York and Lancaster counties, while supporting 1,413 jobs and $117.8 million in labor income. The 2025 Economic and Social Impact Analysis, conducted by University of South Carolina research economist Joseph C. Von Nessen of the Darla Moore School of Business, was commissioned by mine operator OceanaGold and released this week. It is the third such study OceanaGold has commissioned, following analyses…

YORK COUNTY, SC — A York County Sheriff’s Office deputy has been honored as Drug Recognition Expert of the Year for the second time by Mothers Against Drunk Driving of South Carolina for his work combating impaired driving. Lance Corporal Christopher Anderson received the Rick Moore Drug Recognition Expert of the Year award, recognizing his expertise and dedication in identifying and apprehending drug impaired drivers. Anderson previously received the same award in 2024. “We are proud of this accomplishment, which is another example of our commitment to protecting the county by keeping impaired drivers off the roads,” said Sheriff Tony…

My uncle passed away last week. Although we didn’t have the closest relationship, he was still an important part of my life, especially growing up. At his viewing, I was reminded of when I was a child and we stayed with my aunt and uncle in Wild Dunes. Having moved from New Jersey in September of the previous year, I was having a hard time adjusting to life in the south.  My uncle had a way of making everyone feel at ease. He was fun to be around and was always cracking jokes. He was also a lover of all…

There are still a few slots open for our upcoming America’s Boating Course, May 16th at the Tega Cay Police Department.  This is the required boating course to operate a boat or jet ski in NC and SC if you were born after a certain date (see flyer).  Sign up on the for In Person Instruction on the SCDNR Boating Education website https://www.register-ed.com/programs/43?loc=35.12176554315251,-81.04763397680638&distance=50

FORT MILL, S.C. — A major milestone for Fort Mill was announced today as Winthrop University confirmed plans to establish a new presence in downtown Fort Mill, bringing three targeted academic programs designed to support the town’s rapid growth and workforce needs. The expansion marks the first time a university will have a footprint in Fort Mill, a move local leaders say will strengthen educational opportunities, support small businesses, and create a direct pipeline between students and employers in one of the fastest-growing regions in South Carolina. The three programs expected to launch will focus on high-demand fields tied to…

A former Chesterfield County sheriff’s deputy is among four men facing charges following a South Carolina Law Enforcement Division investigation into a dogfighting operation, with 34 dogs rescued from the scene. SLED announced Thursday that it charged former Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Deputy Lonnie Shane Gaskins, 27, of Jefferson, with eight counts of Animal Fighting or Baiting, as well as Ill Treatment of Animals and Criminal Conspiracy. The charges were filed Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Terry James Gaskins, 49, also of Jefferson, faces the most extensive charges in the case. He was charged with 23 counts of Animal Fighting or Baiting,…

A sweeping legislative package currently moving through the General Assembly could end South Carolina’s long-standing practice of deductible-free windshield repairs. House Bill 4817, known as the Insurance Rate Reduction and Policyholder Protection Act, proposes significant changes to how automobile safety glass claims are handled. Under current state law, insurers are effectively prohibited from applying deductibles to windshield claims. This has allowed South Carolina drivers to receive glass replacements at no out-of-pocket cost for decades, a benefit frequently highlighted in local repair advertisements. However, the new legislation outlines a phased transition: Through 2026: The current zero-deductible system remains in place. Starting…

The South Carolina State Election Commission has finalized a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to share voter data for a citizenship verification review. This agreement, announced earlier this week, resolves a year-long standoff involving leadership changes and a high-profile privacy lawsuit. Attorney General Alan Wilson expressed strong support for the partnership, framing it as a critical step in maintaining the nation’s most secure elections. Wilson emphasized that verifying citizenship is a shared priority for his office and the current presidential administration. He noted that the agreement reinforces the standard that only American citizens should participate…

A legislative push for greater transparency in the seafood industry gained momentum earlier this week as House Bill 4248 cleared the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee. The bill, which has already passed the House, seeks to mandate clearer labeling for shrimp sold in retail and dining establishments across the state. The core of the legislation requires businesses to disclose whether shrimp is locally harvested or imported. Proponents argue the measure is vital for the survival of South Carolina’s domestic shrimping industry, which struggles to compete with inexpensive foreign products. The bill gained traction following the “Shrimpgate” investigation, which revealed…

Two Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office deputies will be honored next week by the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association with the organization’s Medal of Valor Award, recognizing their bravery during an incident last year. Deputy W.H. Brown and Corporal T. Floyd will be presented with the award for their actions on March 9, 2025. They are among ten deputies from four county sheriffs’ offices across the state who will be recognized during a dinner ceremony at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at the Palmetto Club in Columbia. The Medal of Valor Award is intended to bring special recognition to sheriffs’…

A new Senate proposal would scrap one of the most confusing rules in Social Security, the provision that docks benefits when early retirees keep working and earn above a set amount. Sen. Rick Scott of Florida, who chairs the Senate Special Committee on Aging, introduced the Senior Citizens’ Freedom to Work Act of 2026 on March 24. The bill, designated S. 4184, was read twice and referred to the Senate Finance Committee. Sen. Tommy Tuberville of Alabama signed on as the lone cosponsor. Rep. Greg Murphy of North Carolina has filed a companion measure in the House. How the Earnings…

YORK COUNTY, S.C. — York County residents can resume outdoor burning beginning Wednesday morning after the South Carolina Forestry Commission lifted the State Forester’s Burning Ban that had been in effect for nearly two weeks. The ban was lifted at 7 a.m. April 29 for York County and 11 other counties in the Piedmont region: Abbeville, Anderson, Cherokee, Chester, Greenville, Greenwood, Laurens, Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg and Union. The ban remains in effect for the other 34 counties in South Carolina. Forestry Commission officials said the weather factors that prompted the statewide burning ban 12 days ago have moderated in the…

COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina lawmakers have taken their first significant step toward regulating the rapid spread of data centers across the state, with a Senate committee advancing a sweeping bill aimed at managing energy demand, water use and the cost burden on existing utility customers. The Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee voted Tuesday to send S. 867, the Data Center Development Act, to the full Senate after months of subcommittee testimony. The bill is sponsored by Sen. Tom Davis, R-Beaufort, and co-sponsored by Sens. Josh Kimbrell, Billy Garrett, Ed Sutton, Overture Walker, Allen Blackmon, Ross Turner, Jeffrey Zell,…

Attorney General Alan Wilson holds a commanding lead in a new straw poll released by the South Carolina Republican Party, capturing 35.1 percent of the vote in the six candidate field for the 2026 GOP gubernatorial primary. Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette finished second with 20.1 percent, followed by U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman at 18.8 percent and U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace at 14.2 percent. Businessman Rom Reddy received 9.3 percent and state Sen. Josh Kimbrell trailed the field at 2.5 percent. The results are based on 968 individual votes cast. Wilson’s 15 point margin over his nearest competitor represents a significant…

ROCK HILL, S.C. — A federal appeals court has sided with the City of Rock Hill in a legal battle over the city’s short term rental regulations, rejecting all seven constitutional claims brought by a local property owner in an unpublished opinion issued Monday. The three judge panel of the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously affirmed a lower court ruling against Tom Hutto, who owns roughly a dozen short term rental properties in Rock Hill. Judge Wynn authored the opinion, joined by Judges Thacker and Berner. Hutto challenged a series of regulatory changes the city enacted between 2020 and…

ROCK HILL, S.C. — Rock Hill City Council introduced an ordinance Monday evening to sell approximately 50 acres of city owned land on Palmetto Parkway to an entity identified only as “Project Palmetto Rock.” The property, listed under tax parcel number 664-00-00-021, sits within the Palmetto Research Park, the rebranded site of the former Carolina Panthers practice facility. The more than 200 acre site has remained vacant since the NFL team withdrew from its planned headquarters project in 2022 following funding disputes with the city. Since then, Rock Hill officials have been marketing the site as a shovel ready destination…

Residents near Highway 161 in York may notice an unusual smell this week, but officials say there is no cause for alarm. The York County Office of Emergency Management announced that a company located at 2470 Old York Road is adding an odorant into their trucks this week, which is producing a strong “rotten egg” odor in the surrounding area. The smell may linger as the process continues throughout the week, according to the announcement. Odorants are commonly added to otherwise odorless gases such as propane and natural gas as a safety measure, allowing leaks to be detected quickly by…

Fort Mill has a new spot to grab a cup of coffee, and it comes with a few extras you might not expect. The Roasting Route, a new coffee shop located inside The Postal Route at 2764 Pleasant Rd., is now open for business. The combination concept lets customers grab a coffee, ship a package, and browse a curated gift shop all under one roof. The shop is currently operating in soft opening mode with limited hours from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. A grand opening celebration is scheduled for May 13 from noon to 5 p.m., featuring $1 drinks…

Aiken, Black River, and Chester State Parks will host Kayaking 101 on May 16 Columbia, S.C. – South Carolina State Parks and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary are partnering with the South Carolina chapter of the American Canoe Association (ACA) to offer basic kayaking instruction Saturday, May 16, to kick off National Safe Boating Week. “As we open Black River State Park, our first riverine park network, we are thrilled to once again partner with South Carolina ACA to help more people gain skills and confidence in kayaks and canoes,” said Joy Raintree, director of South Carolina State Parks. “Whether you’re…

The South Carolina Senate has voted to suspend the state’s controversial $1 million liquor liability insurance requirement for hospitality establishments. The amendment, attached to a state appropriations bill, would pause the mandate until June 30, 2027, providing temporary relief to an industry struggling with skyrocketing premiums. The 2018 law, among the strictest in the nation, was originally enacted following several high-profile drunk-driving fatalities and significant lawsuit verdicts. However, the high cost of compliance has since forced numerous bars, restaurants, and concert venues across the state to close. Efforts to reform the system in 2025 via House Bill 3430—which allowed for…

The Humane Society of York County is hoping to find forever homes for two animals this week: a tuxedo cat named Alvarado and a Plott Hound mix named Slinky Dog. Alvarado, estimated to be just over three years old, was surrendered by his previous owner through no fault of his own. Staff describe the handsome cat as gorgeous and adjusting well to rescue life. He is believed to be compatible with other cats given enough transition time. Alvarado is tested, microchipped, vaccinated and neutered. Slinky Dog, a brindle coated Plott Hound, arrived at the shelter from Animal Control and is…

American Airlines will require passengers to keep portable chargers visible and within reach during all flights beginning May 1, 2026, and will ban recharging power banks from onboard seat power, the airline announced April 25. The new policy also limits travelers to two power banks per person, each rated under 100 watt hours. Power banks stored in overhead bins or buried in carry on bags will not be permitted under the rule. Acceptable storage locations include seatback pockets, tray tables and passengers’ laps. The change follows a 2025 Federal Aviation Administration safety alert warning that portable chargers stored out of…

COLUMBIA, S.C. ― The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is declaring a formal end to the measles outbreak in the Upstate that totaled 997 cases from October 2025 through March of this year. The last confirmed case was reported March 15, and a period of 42 days of no new cases is required to declare the end of a measles outbreak. This number is double the number of days for an incubation period (21 days) and is a clear indicator of a broken transmission chain. DPH Interim Agency Director Dr. Edward Simmer said, “Today, as we declare an…

A Sunday evening collision on a major York thoroughfare has resulted in the death of a bicyclist, according to reports from the South Carolina Highway Patrol and per reporting by WCNC. The incident occurred late Sunday night on Alexander Love Highway, near the intersection of Blessed Hope Road. Highway Patrol investigators state that the driver of a sedan was traveling westbound on the highway when the accident took place. At the same time, a bicyclist was traveling eastbound along the roadway. Preliminary evidence suggests the collision occurred when the bicyclist attempted to execute a turn across the highway and was…

Prices at the pump are tough to swallow at the moment. Even with 100 miles left in my tank, the total cost to fill up was a whopping $51. I’ll be the first to acknowledge my car gets average to poor gas mileage (around 23mpg) but I can only imagine what people driving big trucks or SUVs must be paying. This also got me thinking about the importance of being practical. Practicality, especially with money, isn’t fun or flashy but it does allow us to weather the financial storms as they arise.  If the last twenty plus years has taught…

Team Eberle erased a two point Saturday deficit and captured the 2026 Tega Cay Cup, defeating Team Zondervan 19 to 17 after dominating Sunday’s individual match play 14 to 10. Trailing 7 to 5 entering the final day, Team Eberle won six of the twelve singles matches and halved two more to flip the cup. With each match worth 2 points and ties worth 1 point per side, Eberle’s 14 point Sunday haul proved more than enough to overtake Zondervan, whose four singles wins fell short of the comeback math. Matt Bowman and Jim Mowery led the charge for Team…

Leonard “Len” Reed Byrne, 84, passed away on Monday, April 20, 2026. He was born on October 29, 1941 in Passiac, New Jersey. Len was a son of the late William Byrne and Louise Byrne. In addition to his parents, Len was preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife, Virginia “Ginny” Louise Byrne; and his brother, Wayne Michael Byrne. Len is survived by his son, Christopher Byrne and his wife, Beth and their children, Nicholas Byrne, Zachary Byrne and David Zabriskie; his sister-in-law, Linda Byrne; and nephews, Michael DeHaan and his wife, MiHwa, and their children, Linda and…

Team Zondervan leads Team Eberle 7 points to 5 after the opening day of the 2026 Tega Cay Cup, with 24 points still up for grabs when individual match play begins Sunday. The two day Ryder Cup style competition features the top 24 finishers from the 2025 Tega Cay Men’s Golf Association season, with qualification determined by cumulative points earned through tournament play. Saturday’s slate consisted of six best ball matches, with each match worth 2 points and a tied match worth 1 point to each side. Bob Auman and Tim Wyatt opened the scoring with a 3&2 victory over…

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved $2.4 million for Newberry Electric Cooperative to restore its electrical system as part of a broader $285 million recovery funding package for five Southeast states. The South Carolina award is part of a regional Public Assistance allocation announced Saturday by FEMA Region 4 covering Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina and Tennessee. The funding will allow Newberry Electric Cooperative to restore its electrical system to its predisaster design, function and capacity within the existing footprint. The announcement is part of $1.2 billion that FEMA is releasing nationwide for more than 200 large Public Assistance…

South Pointe held off a tight challenge from Fort Mill and Rock Hill to win the boys team title, and Nation Ford ran away with the girls championship at the Tri County Track and Field Championships on Saturday at South Pointe High School. The South Pointe boys finished with 136 points, holding off Fort Mill (128) and Rock Hill (127.5) in one of the closest team finishes in recent meet history. Just 8.5 points separated the top three squads. Catawba Ridge (85.5) placed fourth, followed by York (70), Nation Ford (37), Lancaster (30), Lewisville (25), Clover (19) and Riverwalk Academy…

The Third Annual Seven Eleven Memorial Golf Tournament & Silent Auction will take place on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at Tega Cay Golf Club, bringing the community together for a meaningful day of golf, remembrance, and support for mental health awareness. This annual event benefits the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, a leading nonprofit dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. Importantly, funds raised through this tournament will stay local, directly supporting programs, education, and resources within our community. This year, the event is honored to welcome the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), further strengthening the tournament’s…

The South Carolina Senate passed a $15 billion state budget this week that includes a critical $35 million relief package designed to stabilize the state’s agricultural sector. This funding comes as local growers face a combination of extreme weather and skyrocketing operational costs that have pushed the industry to a breaking point. The agricultural crisis is driven largely by geopolitical instability and local environmental factors. Ongoing conflict in the Middle East has caused a sharp spike in essential resources, with fertilizer prices increasing 47% in just six weeks and farm diesel climbing 46% since late February. Compounding these financial burdens…

YORK, S.C. — Students from across York County put their skills to the test today during a high-energy Utility Line Worker Rodeo, showcasing hands-on training and real-world readiness in front of industry professionals and community partners. Participants from Floyd D. Johnson Technology Center, York Comprehensive High School, Clover High School, and York Technical College demonstrated essential line worker skills including pole climbing, equipment handling, safety procedures, and teamwork. The event provided a unique opportunity for students to apply classroom learning in a competitive, real-world environment while gaining valuable exposure to potential employers. Representatives from local utility companies were in attendance,…

Charlotte, NC—The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hosted a powerful and uplifting youth devotional Sunday evening featuring Bonnie Cordon, President of Southern Virginia University and former Young Women’s President of the global Church. The event, drew more than 200 youth ages 14–18 from across the region, including teens from the Fort Mill area. Attendees gathered for an evening of inspiration, connection, and spiritual growth. In her message, Cordon encouraged youth to strengthen their personal relationship with God and recognize His presence in their daily lives. “God’s size in your life depends on how close you are to Him,”…

The Lancaster County Planning Commission voted on Tuesday to recommend denial of a conditional use permit that would have allowed a mosque at 10935 Harrisburg Road in Indian Land, sending the matter to county council for a final decision after nearly two hours of public testimony and commissioner discussion. The application, filed under case CU 2026 0168, sought a conditional use permit for a place of assembly on a roughly five acre parcel currently zoned Low Density Residential. Place of assembly is an allowed use in LDR with a conditional use permit. Commissioner Sheila Hinson recused herself from the matter….

Rock Hill will host one of six new Innovation Hubs under a statewide initiative announced Thursday by the South Carolina Research Authority, placing York County at the center of an effort to accelerate the state’s technology economy. SCRA, a public nonprofit chartered by the state in 1983, said on April 23 it is launching a network of Innovation Hubs in Rock Hill, Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Aiken, and Florence. The hubs are intended to serve as regional centers for collaboration, resource sharing, and support for emerging technology companies as they grow from early ideas into established enterprises. Grant Funding Opens In…

The South Carolina State Senate has halted the rollout of the state’s newest standard license plate, citing a mix of historical disputes and growing concerns over the racial implications of its design. The plate, intended to mark the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, has faced mounting scrutiny just months after its January debut. The plate’s tagline, “Where the Revolutionary War Was Won,” was initially intended to highlight that more battles were fought in South Carolina than in any other colony. However, senators “hit the brakes” following pushback from historians and neighboring states who argue the slogan is misleading. Critics…

Tega Cay’s Gold Hill Middle School and Clover’s Oakridge Elementary School are among thirteen South Carolina schools named finalists for the 2026 Palmetto’s Finalist Awards. The South Carolina Association of School Administrators presents the awards each year to schools offering the best in innovative and effective educational programs. The two York County campuses are the only finalists from the region in this year’s slate. Oakridge Elementary School, in the Clover School District, was named a finalist in the elementary category. Gold Hill Middle School, in the York School District, was named a finalist in the middle school category. 2026 Palmetto’s…

The Tega Cay City Council met for its regular session on Monday, April 20th to address community proclamations, development updates, and infrastructure improvements. Mayor Carmen Miller and the council emphasized community safety, mental health awareness, and environmental stewardship. Key Proclamations and Recognitions The council issued four major proclamations highlighting community values and the dedication of public servants: Spring Pick-Me-Up Week / Earth Day / Arbor Day: Recognizing April 20–25 as a week for community cleaning and local conservation efforts. Mental Health Awareness Month: Designating May 2026 to support the mission of NAMI Piedmont Tri-County. International Firefighters Day (May 4): Honoring…

York County Library is asking residents to help shape the library system’s next strategic plan through a public survey now available online. Library staff are seeking feedback from regular patrons and from residents who do not currently use library services. Anyone age 12 or older is eligible to participate. The survey is anonymous and takes about five to ten minutes to complete. Responses must be submitted by Friday, May 15. The survey can be accessed here.. Source: York County Library

If you can recall George Orwell’s 1984, you’ll see many similarities in what follows. For those of you who need a refresher, Winston Smith, living in a superstate called Oceania, is caught up in the “party’s” overreach to the point he can no longer go on. His job is to rewrite history according to the rules of Big Brother. Language is hijacked into Newspeak, a way of saying something without actually saying it. In this way, Big Brother can limit independent thinking, and everyone, like lemmings, will think the same as they all walk off the cliff together. Before we…

State Senator Michael Johnson, who represents Fort Mill and Tega Cay in District 16, has sponsored and passed a budget proviso in the South Carolina Senate that would block the Department of Environmental Services from taking any action that could allow Silfab Solar to resume manufacturing operations at its Fort Mill facility. The amendment, designated Amendment No. 22 to H.5126 and dated April 16, 2026, targets Section 117 of Part IB of the state budget under General Provisions. If it survives the full legislative process, the proviso would prohibit SCDES from issuing permits, approvals, or entering into any consent orders…

The South Carolina Department of Social Services is launching a major initiative to safeguard Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits from fraudulent activity. Beginning next week, the agency will implement a mandatory security status for all Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards issued within the state. Under the new “Block High Risk Transactions” protocol, all South Carolina EBT cards will be restricted from completing out-of-state or online purchases by default. While residents can continue to use their cards for in-person transactions at local retailers without interruption, the system will automatically decline any attempts to buy groceries through websites or at physical…

The Tybee Island Police Department is reminding high school seniors that a day off from class does not mean a day off from the law, and promises it will not lecture anyone about perfect attendance or warn that they will end up “living in a van down by the river.” In a Facebook post addressed to students across Chatham County, the department acknowledged the longstanding informal tradition of Senior Skip Day while making clear that officers would be out in force along the beach, including at the Back River. “As always, state and local laws are in effect and will…

COLUMBIA, SC (April 16, 2026) – A Rock Hill husband gave his wife a lottery ticket that surprised them both with a $200,000 win. “I scratched it and thought, ‘Is this right?’” the wife told South Carolina Education Lottery officials. So, she called her husband over to have a look. He studied the ticket he bought at the QuikTrip #1061 on Celanese Rd. in Rock Hill and assured her it was indeed a top prize winner. “We’re super excited and grateful,” the wife said. “It’s going to help us get caught up on things.” She says the couple has always enjoyed buying tickets for each other, and…

Governor Henry McMaster visited the Francis Beidler Forest Audubon Center on Wednesday to ceremonially sign the Prothonotary Warbler Recognition Act. The new law officially designates the Prothonotary Warbler as South Carolina’s state migratory bird, following a unanimous vote in both chambers of the General Assembly. The bird, frequently referred to as the swamp canary due to its vibrant yellow plumage, is a signature resident of South Carolina’s forested wetlands. Each spring, approximately 50,000 of these songbirds arrive in the state after a 5,000-mile journey from South America. They rely on local swamps and river corridors, such as the old-growth Cypress-Tupelo…

First Responders Back Lt. Governor Pamela Evette Because of Her Steadfast Support and Record of Results  (CHARLESTON, S.C.) – Lt. Governor Pamela Evette announced the endorsement of the Professional Fire Fighters Association of South Carolina (PFFASC) in a press conference with the organization on Tuesday in Daniel Island. The PFFASC represents professional firefighters across South Carolina and advocates for improved working conditions, training, equipment, pay, and benefits. During her time as Lieutenant Governor, Evette has worked alongside Gov. Henry McMaster and the General Assembly to deliver real results for firefighters, including tax relief, expanded cancer benefits, and stronger protections to…

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that a raccoon found near Bishopville Highway and Lee Road in Camden, S.C., has tested positive for rabies. No people are known to have been exposed at this time. Two horses were exposed and will be quarantined as required in the South Carolina Rabies Control Act. The raccoon was submitted to DPH’s laboratory for testing Apr. 17, 2026, and was confirmed to have rabies Apr. 20, 2026. If you believe you, your family members, or your pets have come in contact with this raccoon or another animal that…

America’s Boating Club of the Catawba will host America’s Boating Course at the Tega Cay Police Department on two dates this year: May 16 and August 22. The course runs from 8:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is held at 7705 Tega Cay Drive. Registration includes the in-person course, a course book, and lunch. The course is required by law for younger boaters before operating a motorized vessel. In South Carolina, anyone under 19 years old must complete the course before operating a vessel powered by a motor of 10 horsepower or more, including personal watercraft such as jet skis….

  A South Carolina prison inmate was sentenced Monday to nearly 22 years in federal prison after prosecutors proved he ran a drug trafficking operation from inside the South Carolina Department of Corrections, using a contraband cell phone and drones to keep his network supplied and funded. Samual Earl Ramu, 34, of Johnsonville, was ordered to serve 262 months in federal prison after being convicted of conspiring to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine while incarcerated. The sentence will be followed by five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Court evidence showed Ramu led a drug…

A proposal to allow golf carts to operate at night on public streets within the Baxter Village community in Fort Mill cleared its second reading before York County Council on Monday, April 20, passing 5 to 2 after a lengthy and at times heated debate over whether the same rules should apply to all unincorporated York County. The vote advances an ordinance that would give formal structure to golf cart use within the Baxter Village Traditional Neighborhood District, a planned community along Highway 160 that features both residential neighborhoods and commercial businesses within close proximity to one another. The ordinance…

York County Council convened its regular meeting Monday, April 20, 2026, at the York County Government Center with Chairwoman Christi Cox presiding. The session featured a contentious debate over a golf cart ordinance for the Baxter Village community, the formal handoff of the county’s proposed fiscal year 2027 budget totaling $560 million, sustained public testimony on data center impacts and accountability, and a full slate of consent agenda items covering conservation easements, road improvements, law enforcement grants, and ambulance service regulation. The meeting opened with the swearing in of four newly appointed board and commission members: Faadia Rahaman Estes and…

As QTS Data Centers moves forward with a $1 billion data center campus off Hands Mill Highway in unincorporated York County, a new national study finds that South Carolina is among 14 states that do not publicly disclose how much tax revenue it surrenders to subsidize facilities like it. The April 2026 report from Good Jobs First, a Washington D.C. watchdog organization focused on economic development incentives, found that South Carolina fails to report data center tax abatement revenue losses anywhere, including in its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, the audited spending document that is the proper vehicle for such disclosures…

A Rock Hill man has been sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for orchestrating a massive, international drug trafficking operation that produced hundreds of thousands of counterfeit pills. Timothy Markee Gayton, 34, was convicted for his leadership in two major schemes involving the manufacture and distribution of fentanyl and cocaine. Federal investigations revealed that beginning in 2018, Gayton operated industrial-scale clandestine laboratories in the York County area. Using materials imported from China and Mexico—including pill presses, binder, and raw fentanyl powder—he manufactured counterfeit Roxicodone pills to supply dealers throughout South Carolina. Law enforcement interventions failed to halt Gayton’s operations…

Federal legislators have introduced a new bill designed to prevent Social Security recipients from losing benefits when they receive help from friends or family. Introduced on April 15, the SSI Savings and Efficiency Act of 2026 targets a longstanding policy that penalizes seniors and people with disabilities for accepting non-cash support. Under current Social Security Administration rules, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments can be reduced if a beneficiary receives “in-kind” assistance, such as free housing or groceries. This policy often creates a financial strain for the roughly 7.4 million Americans who rely on the program to cover basic survival needs…

The race for South Carolina’s highest office intensifies tonight as the Republican gubernatorial primary heads to the Lowcountry. Six candidates are confirmed to take the stage at the Sottille Theatre in Charleston for the second televised debate of the season, marking a significant expansion of the field. The event will be live streamed by various networks, including locally by WBTV. For the first time this cycle, Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and businessman Rom Reddy will join the lineup. Their inclusion follows their absence from the initial April debate in Newberry. They will face off against State Senator Josh Kimbrell, Attorney…

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division charged two Conway residents on April 15, 2026, in connection with a dogfighting investigation that led to the rescue of 33 dogs from a Horry County property. Prentice Shiobhan Jackson, 47, faces 33 counts of Ill Treatment of Animals, 16 counts of Animal Fighting or Baiting, and one count of Criminal Conspiracy. Rontisha Elena Huggins-Jackson, 48, faces one count of Criminal Conspiracy. Both were booked into the J. Reuben Long Detention Center in Horry County. SLED executed a search warrant at Jackson’s residence in Conway on April 15. Investigators found 33 dogs on the…

A local charity organization is teeing up its fourth annual golf tournament this Father’s Day at one of York County’s most scenic courses, bringing together golfers and community members in support of fathers and families touched by cancer. Fathers Against Cancer will host the 4th Annual Father’s Day Golf Invitational on June 19, 2026, at Tega Cay Golf Club, located at 15083 Molokai Dr in Tega Cay. The entry fee is $150 per golfer. The organization describes its mission as creating a world where every father impacted by cancer finds brotherhood, hope, and strength through faith filled fellowship, and where…

Kelsey McGuire did not just return to the Boston Marathon this year. She elevated her performance to one of the top finishes in the country. The Tega Cay native crossed the finish line Monday with a time of 2 hours, 52 minutes and 17 seconds, placing 161st out of 12,777 female finishers and 146th out of 5,787 competitors in the women’s 18 to 39 age group. McGuire was the fastest amateur woman in the top area finishers. The result marks a dramatic improvement from her 2025 debut at Boston, where she finished in 3 hours and 6 minutes while raising…

Democratic candidates will participate in a forum organized by the Winthrop University College Democrats and the York County Democratic Party to boost civic engagement in the upcoming 2026 elections. It will take place at the DiGorgio Center on Winthrop’s campus tomorrow night beginning at 6:00 pm and will feature brief presentations from each candidate, a Q & A session and a voter registration booth. South Carolina’s Democratic primary election is Tuesday, June 9, 2026. WHAT: Candidate Forum & Conversation WHO: Mallory Dittmer, candidate for U.S. Congressional District SC-05; Dr. Jermaine Johnson, candidate for South Carolina Governor; Dr. Annie Andrews, candidate…

  A Familiar Name, A Familiar Gang If you have ever booked a train ticket online, reserved a seat on Amtrak’s app, or reached out to Amtrak’s customer support, your personal information may now be in the hands of cybercriminals. In mid-April 2026, the notorious hacking group ShinyHunters added America’s national passenger railroad to their growing list of victims, claiming to have stolen millions of records and threatening to publish them publicly unless a ransom was paid. When Amtrak did not pay, the hackers followed through on their threat and dumped the data online.¹ This is not a small breach,…

Emergency crews responded Sunday evening to a shooting at the Blue Olive Lounge in Fort Mill, according to a York County Sheriff’s Office incident report. The shooting occurred at approximately 9:40 p.m. on April 19, 2026, at 929 Crossroads Plaza, the location of the Blue Olive Lounge in Fort Mill. Deputies arrived and secured the scene. Investigators confirmed the victim had been shot. The victim was transported by EMS to Piedmont Medical Center in Rock Hill for treatment. The York County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division and Forensic Services Unit responded to the scene. The case remains active and open…

Just a year ago, Caden Glauber was dominating hitters on the diamonds of Fort Mill. Today, he is doing the same on one of college baseball’s biggest stages. The Atlantic Coast Conference announced Monday that the University of North Carolina freshman and former Catawba Ridge standout has been named the ACC Pitcher of the Week. The honor follows a legendary relief performance that propelled the No. 6 Tar Heels to a 6-4 victory over Clemson in a 14-inning marathon this past Saturday. Entering a high-stakes, tied ballgame in the bottom of the ninth inning at Doug Kingsmore Stadium, the right-hander…

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation will bring its annual charity golf tournament to Tega Cay Golf Course for the third consecutive year on June 5, 2026, giving local golfers a chance to hit the links while supporting one of the nation’s most recognized first responder and military charities. The tournament will be held at 1509 Tega Cay Drive with a 4-man scramble format and a 9:00 a.m. shotgun start. Entry is $160 per player, which includes range balls, lunch, a Low Country Boil, and live music. The day extends well beyond the 18th hole. An after party at the Tega…

USC Joseph F. Rice School of Law recognizes Elrod Pope senior counsel for career of service and professional distinction ROCK HILL — Thomas E. “Tommy” Pope, a senior counsel at Elrod Pope Accident and Injury Attorneys in Rock Hill and a longtime member of the South Carolina House of Representatives, received one of the state’s most prestigious legal honors Thursday night when the University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law recognized him as a Platinum Recipient of the Compleat Lawyer Award. The Compleat Lawyer Awards were established in 1992 by the USC Joseph F. Rice School of…

Understanding Autism: A Tega Cay Lions Club initiative Autism is one of the most misunderstood invisible disabilities — not because people lack compassion, but because so many of its traits are easy to overlook. While some autistic individuals communicate differently, avoid eye contact, or experience sensory overwhelm, many signs of autism are subtle, internal, and deeply personal. “Autism doesn’t have a single look,” says the Tega Cay Lions Club Mental Health Committee. “A person may appear calm on the outside while feeling overloaded on the inside.” Approaching an autistic person requires patience and clarity. Experts recommend using direct, literal language…

The Tega Cay Music Association is inviting the community to a free evening of live music at Model A Brewing Company on Saturday, May 3, from 4 to 6 p.m. The event, called Decades Night, is an open music night where performers and music lovers alike are welcome to come out and celebrate songs from across the generations. A “People’s Choice” award will be part of the fun, giving attendees a say in recognizing standout performances of the evening. Anyone interested in performing can sign up by scanning a QR code on the flyer and selecting a favorite song from…

Fort Mill’s Mia Williams wins 100 meters, adds triple jump title at SCTCCCA Bob Jenkins Coaches Classic The South Carolina Track and Cross Country Coaches Association held its annual Bob Jenkins Coaches Classic Elite Meet on Thursday, April 17, at Whale Branch Early College High School in Seabrook, bringing together the top high school track and field athletes from across the state in every division for one of the most competitive one-day meets on the South Carolina prep calendar. Athletes earned their spots at the Classic by qualifying at one of six regional meets held on March 21, meaning every…

South Carolina legislators are evaluating a new proposal designed to provide teachers with greater authority and protection in the face of classroom violence and disruptions. The Educator Safety and Classroom Authority Act of 2026 aims to reshape how student behavior is managed, granting educators more control over who remains in their learning environments. A primary component of the bill addresses the immediate return of disruptive students. Under the proposed rules, if a teacher dismisses a student for violent or disruptive behavior, that student would be barred from returning to the same classroom for the remainder of the day without the…

Being talented is often associated with a God given ability to sing, dance or some other form of artistic expression. This notion is supported by shows like American Idol, The Masked Singer and The Voice. Although entertaining, there are few individuals who are talented enough to make it on the big stage. This is true for most things.  What does this mean for the rest of us? Are we devoid of talent, destined to plod through life with rudderless despair at our lack of ability to excel at any one thing?  Talent comes in many forms. You can be elite,…

A 29-year-old Orangeburg man has made legal history in South Carolina, becoming the first person in the state convicted under the federal Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture (PACT) Act. Desmond Levon Brown pleaded guilty this week to “animal crushing,” a federal charge that includes the intentional torture and burning of a living animal. The conviction stems from a gruesome incident on December 18, 2024, that was captured and broadcast on social media. The investigation began when the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office received reports of a Facebook Live video showing a puppy being burned alive. Federal authorities later obtained the footage,…

The South Carolina Senate Medical Affairs Committee spent several hours Thursday scrutinizing Senate Bill 1095. Sponsored by Senator Richard Cash (R-Anderson), the “Unborn Child Protection Act” seeks to outlaw nearly all abortions from the point of a clinically diagnosable pregnancy, removing existing exceptions for rape, incest, and fatal fetal anomalies. The proposal creates a narrow allowance only for medical emergencies to save the mother’s life. During the hearing, Senator Brad Hutto (D-Orangeburg) challenged the bill’s reach, questioning if residents could face prosecution for traveling out of state for the procedure. Cash clarified that the bill does not apply to actions…

During the 2026 Teacher of the Year banquet held on April 16, the district honored our 2026–2027 Teachers of the Year and announced the five District Honor Roll Teachers of the Year. The 2026–2027 Honor Roll Teachers of the Year are: – Chris Beasley, 4th Grade, Kings Town Elementary School – Annalise Eberhard, Librarian, Fort Mill Middle School – Cambridge Gamble, 6 Grade ELA/SS, Springfield Middle School – Ronika Middleton, Counselor, Banks Trail Middle School – Kristen Schauer, Art, River Trail Elementary School These five Honor Roll Teachers will now be considered for the District Teacher of the Year, which…

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division charged a former Oconee County narcotics agent Friday with misconduct in office after an investigation found he exchanged sexually explicit text messages, photographs and videos with a confidential informant he was assigned to handle. Derek Pace, 46, of Westminster, was booked into the Oconee County Detention Center on April 17, 2026. The charge stems from conduct that allegedly occurred between May 11, 2023 and December 31, 2023, while Pace was acting in his official capacity as a law enforcement officer for the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office. According to the arrest warrant affidavit, Pace knowingly…

A joint resolution filed in the South Carolina House of Representatives would allow the Fort Mill School District to waive two school days that Flint Hill Elementary students missed in March following a chemical incident at the nearby Silfab Solar facility. State Rep. David Martin (R, York County) announced Thursday that he worked with the Department of Education to draft the resolution, which would give the York County School District 4 Board of Trustees the authority to forgo requiring students to make up the missed days on Saturdays. “These closures were the result of an incident that occurred beyond the…

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed a case of measles in an adult Saluda County resident. Upon investigation, the case is determined to be the result of international travel and is not related to the Upstate outbreak. The individual’s vaccination status is unknown. Thirty-four individuals have been identified as potentially exposed, and those individuals are currently in the process of being notified and recommended for quarantine. No public exposures occurred, and the case is isolating to prevent further spread of the virus through April 18. The subject presented at a local provider in…

The York County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an alleged theft of money from Field Day Park in Lake Wylie, the agency announced Thursday, and is asking the public for help identifying potential victims or witnesses. The investigation covers a period spanning more than five years, from October 2020 through March 2026. The park is located at 1101 Field Day Lane. Investigators are seeking to identify anyone who made cash payments to Field Day Park during that window for field rentals, community center or pavilion rentals, sponsorships, pickleball classes, or fees paid as a food truck vendor. The investigation is limited…

Columbia, SC — Representatives of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints met this week with key state leaders at the South Carolina Statehouse to foster relationships, promote collaboration, and reaffirm the Church’s commitment to humanitarian efforts across the region. David Winters, an Area Seventy serving South Carolina and residing in Georgia, led the visit. “The purpose of our meetings at the Statehouse in Columbia was to more fully introduce to them the presence of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in their communities,” said Ernie Shannon, one of the faith leaders of the ten congregations in…

The Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group has issued a Stage 1 drought advisory for the region, citing extended dry weather and below-average rainfall across the Catawba-Wateree River Basin. In response, the City of Tega Cay is asking residents to voluntarily reduce water use. No mandatory restrictions are in place at this time. The advisory comes as the basin has seen declining water levels tied to reduced stream flows and prolonged dry conditions. Conservation officials say early action helps protect the shared water supply and lowers the risk of stricter measures if conditions do not improve. Because Tega Cay purchases its…

A segment of Gold Hill Road near the Knightsbridge neighborhood remains under temporary steel plates as crews finalize a two-step repair process following a significant water line leak and subsequent erosion. York County representatives confirmed the damage was traced to a leaking corporation stop at the main utility line. While the leak was repaired the same day the sinkhole was reported, the underlying erosion left the roadway compromised. Commuters should prepare for significant traffic delays beginning Thursday, April 16. While officials initially hoped to conclude the project sooner, contractor availability and competing priorities have pushed the final stages to the…

Schools across York and Lancaster Counties are among 350 South Carolina campuses recognized for academic excellence as the state Department of Education announced its 2024-25 Palmetto Gold and Silver Award winners. Four York County school districts placed schools on the list: Clover School District, Fort Mill School District, and Rock Hill Schools, as did Lancaster County School District. State Superintendent Ellen Weaver praised the honorees statewide. “The Palmetto Gold and Silver awards recognize strong, measurable growth in student achievement and celebrate the hard work of educators and students alike,” Weaver said. “We congratulate these schools on striving for excellence and…

  More than 350 South Carolina schools are being celebrated for academic excellence after the state Department of Education announced its 2024-25 Palmetto Gold and Silver Award winners, and Fort Mill School District is among the top performers on the list with 17 campuses honored. Of the 17 recognized Fort Mill schools, 13 earned the Palmetto Gold designation and four received the Palmetto Silver award. The honors span elementary, middle, and high school campuses, reflecting district-wide results that place Fort Mill among the strongest showings of any traditional public school district in the state. State Superintendent Ellen Weaver praised the…

In a landmark victory for consumer rights and fair market competition, a jury ruled Wednesday that Live Nation and Ticketmaster violated federal and state antitrust laws. The verdict concludes a five-week trial brought by South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson and a coalition of 33 other attorneys general, who successfully argued that the entertainment giant used its dominance to stifle competition and inflate ticket prices. The jury determined that the companies maintained an illegal monopoly by controlling multiple facets of the live event industry, including venue ownership, event promotion, and ticketing services. Specifically, the verdict found that Live Nation unlawfully…

Unlike a protested plant in York County, Suniva won’t operate near a school or subdivisions By:Jessica Holdman– South Carolina Daily Gazette – April 14, 2026 LAURENS — A solar panel manufacturer pledges to invest $350 million in its first plant in South Carolina and employ 564 people. Suniva announced Tuesday plans to lease a 620,000-square-foot building in an industrial park on the north end of Laurens. The deal, which South Carolina Commerce Secretary Harry Lightsey called a “significant win for rural economic development,” marks the third largest in the county’s history in terms of both jobs and investment. ZF Transmissions’…

The morning sun catches them first. Dozens of polished Airstream trailers, their curved aluminum shells gleaming like a fleet of silver bullets parked along Congress Street, transforming downtown York, South Carolina into something between a time capsule and a traveling dream. This is Silver in the City, and for one weekend each April, this small York County town becomes the unlikely capital of American road culture. A Festival Unlike Any Other Now entering its ninth year, Silver in the City has grown from a modest gathering of Airstream enthusiasts into one of the most distinctive events in the Palmetto State….

Half of America’s Children Are on This Platform If you have a child or grandchild between the ages of 6 and 16, there is a very good chance they are playing Roblox right now. Not occasionally. Regularly. Maybe daily. Roblox is not just a game. It is a massive online universe where players build worlds, chat with other users, earn and spend virtual currency, and socialize with strangers from around the world. The platform has around 151.5 million daily active users, and nearly half of all children under 16 in the United States use it. Around 42% of those users…

South Carolina lawmakers reached a final decision Wednesday, April 15, 2026, passing a measure that mandates students in all public schools and universities use bathrooms and locker rooms that correspond with the gender listed on their original birth certificates. The legislation, which moved through the General Assembly after months of vigorous debate, applies to every public educational institution in the state, from primary schools through the university system. Proponents of the measure maintain that the new requirements are essential for protecting the privacy and safety of female students. Advocates argued during the legislative process that the bill ensures sex-segregated spaces…

Mallory Dittmer, candidate for Congress in South Carolina’s 5th District, will join the celebration in downtown Rock Hill tomorrow at the Come-See-Me Festival Parade from 6:30 – 8:30 PM. The parade steps off at 300 E. Main St., and marks the start of the annual family-friendly festival. “The Come-See-Me Festival is an amazing family event that celebrates the joyful, welcoming spirit of Rock Hill and the inspiring power of community.  This beautifully diverse town reminds us how much we have in common, and being here reinforces my commitment to end the partisan bickering and gridlock in Washington that ultimately affects…

Parents of Flint Hill Elementary students are expressing frustration after the Fort Mill School Board voted Monday to implement back-to-back Saturday eLearning days to make up for instructional time lost during chemical leaks at a nearby solar plant. The board approved a plan requiring students to attend asynchronous virtual classes on April 25 and May 2. The makeup days are intended to recover time lost on March 5 and 6, when the campus was twice evacuated due to incidents at the neighboring Silfab Solar facility. Under South Carolina law, school districts are required to provide 180 days of instruction. District…

Governor Henry McMaster has officially signed H. 4216 into law, a sweeping tax reform bill designed to simplify South Carolina’s tax code and provide hundreds of millions of dollars in relief to residents. Starting in tax year 2026, the state will transition from a three-bracket system to a more streamlined two-rate structure. Under the new law, taxable income up to $30,000 will be taxed at 1.99%, while income above that threshold will be taxed at 5.21%—a significant drop from the previous 6% top rate. This shift is projected to save taxpayers roughly $325 million and reduce tax liability for nearly…

The Fort Mill School Board voted Monday night to approve two Saturday makeup days for Flint Hill Elementary students who missed school in early March due to incidents at the neighboring Silfab Solar facility. Students at Flint Hill Elementary will attend eLearning sessions on Saturday, April 25 and Saturday, May 2 to recover instructional time lost on March 5 and 6. The decision comes after weeks of discussions between district administrators, the South Carolina Department of Education, and state legislators. Following the board’s April 1 meeting, Superintendent Grey Young directed staff to explore whether the missed days could be waived….

CHARLESTON, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Charleston returned a two-count indictment, presented by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, charging Yuan Li, 35, a Chinese national residing in the United States, for conspiracy to obstruct justice. The indictment alleges that Li joined the United States Navy in January 2022 after previously being discharged from the Army. During his time in the Navy, Li completed an Application for Naturalization to apply for U.S. citizenship. Li did not answer whether he had been discharged other than honorable from the military and listed a fraudulent address in San Fransico as his current residence. During…

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Travis Rashad Laney, 38, of Lancaster, has been sentenced to 17.5 years in federal prison for distributing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Evidence presented in court revealed that agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration identified Laney as an individual involved in trafficking significant quantities of narcotics in the Lancaster area. On three separate occasions between April and May 2024, Laney sold a combined total of more than 700 grams of methamphetamine to law enforcement. On May 9, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Laney’s residence in Lancaster. During the search, officers recovered approximately 1,000 grams of…

 ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA – Winthrop University has received the largest all-cash gift in its history, a remarkable $2.5 million that will create teacher education scholarships and fund a professorship. The family of the late Virginia Bellune Collier ’30 made the gift in her honor, ensuring $2 million will go toward teacher education scholarships, preferably in STEM disciplines, and $500,000 will fund a professorship in the College of Arts and Sciences. Collier had long held the dream of becoming a doctor, but due to the era in which she lived, Collier pivoted to teaching. The family of the late Virginia Bellune…

The retaining walls that swallowed countless golf balls, and broke countless hearts are finally coming down. Construction crews broke ground this week on one of the most eagerly awaited renovations in the recent history of the Tega Cay Golf Course: the removal of the greenside retaining walls separating the pond from the putting surfaces on Holes 10 and 18. For years, perhaps decades, those walls have served as silent executioners of otherwise solid rounds. A slightly misjudged approach, a ball that caught the wrong bounce, and suddenly a golfer was staring down a near-impossible up-and-over chip with water lurking just…

Lancaster County Council convened its regular meeting Monday, April 13, 2026. The session featured a packed agenda bookended by passionate citizen commentary on infrastructure and growth, a series of celebratory recognitions for county employees and programs, and two of the most consequential votes the council has taken this year, final approval of both the Haven development rezoning and its accompanying development agreement. The meeting also produced a notable setback for the county’s first-ever nonprofit grant distribution process, which council postponed after members raised concerns about the vetting of applicants. Citizens Sound Off on Growth, Infrastructure, and Economic Development Five residents…

South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster has formally requested that the state’s top internal watchdog investigate the governing board of Ascent Classical Academy, escalating scrutiny of the Fort Mill charter school following complaints about financial irregularities and institutional mismanagement. In a letter dated April 13, 2026, McMaster directed State Inspector General Brian D. Lamkin to initiate an investigation, review, and analysis of the conduct of one or more board members of Ascent Classical Academy. The governor cited authority under Chapter 6 of Title 1 of the South Carolina Code of Laws. McMaster wrote that his office had received a complaint from…

For generations, the “hard-boiled egg” has been a kitchen staple, yet the frustration of pockmarked whites and stubborn shells remains a common culinary grievance. However, a simple shift in technique promises a clean peel every time: swapping the boiling water for a steamer basket. The struggle with peeling often stems from the anatomy of the egg. As eggs age, the protective membrane beneath the shell bonds less tightly to the white. However, when a cold egg is dropped into boiling water, the rapid temperature change can cause the delicate whites to fuse to that membrane, leading to the dreaded “cratered”…

South Carolina legislators are advancing a bill designed to significantly increase the legal protections for law enforcement animals, sending a clear message that violence against police K-9s and horses will face severe consequences. The proposal seeks to honor the memory of several animals killed in the line of duty while providing handlers with stronger legal backing. The legislation is named in honor of six fallen K-9s. Law enforcement officials emphasize that these animals are not merely tools of the trade but are integral members of their departments and families. In recent years, the state has seen a rise in incidents…

Every spring, Rock Hill answers an open invitation with the same enthusiastic reply it has been giving since 1962. The Come-See-Me Festival, now a beloved tradition stretching across 10 full days, returns April 16 through 25, 2026, bringing residents and visitors together for one of the most recognized community celebrations in the Southeast. What started out as a weekend event has grown into a 10-day festival full of merriment and memories for all ages. From the opening parade downtown to a fireworks finale, the festival covers an extraordinary range of activities, making it as much a way of life as…

Two statewide offices below the governorship are drawing competitive Republican primary contests this cycle, with candidates for Attorney General and Commissioner of Agriculture reporting sharply different financial positions heading into the June 9 primary. Attorney General State Sen. Stephen Goldfinch of Conway leads the three-way Republican primary for Attorney General in both cash raised and cash on hand. Goldfinch raised $284,355 during the first quarter and ended the period with $651,401 in his campaign account after spending $113,825. His total election cycle fundraising stands at $877,282, the highest in the field, and he carries no loan balance. David Stumbo reported…

With the June 9 primary now less than two months away, first quarter campaign finance reports filed with the South Carolina Ethics Commission reveal a Republican field dominated by two well-funded frontrunners and a Democratic contest where a self-financed candidate has quietly emerged as the cash on hand leader. Republican Primary Attorney General Alan Wilson enters the closing stretch of the primary season with the strongest financial position in the Republican field. Wilson raised $1,044,006 in cash contributions during the first quarter and ended the period with $1,804,896 in cash on hand after spending $572,340. He carries no loan balance…

South Carolina may soon join the growing list of states allowing lottery tickets to be sold through automated vending machines. A proposal currently under consideration in the State House would authorize the South Carolina Education Lottery to deploy self-service kiosks in retail locations across the state. Supporters of the bill argue that the move is a necessary modernization to keep pace with consumer habits. They contend that vending machines would decrease wait times at convenience store counters and potentially increase revenue for the state’s education fund. Currently, South Carolina is one of the few states with a lottery that still…

With the South Carolina primary election set for June 9, 2026, first quarter campaign finance reports filed with the state offer a snapshot of where York County candidates stand financially heading into the stretch run. The reports, due April 10, reveal dramatic differences in fundraising strength across contested races for county council, probate judge, and the state legislature. State House District 26 In the Republican primary for House District 26, David W. Martin of Fort Mill enters the final stretch as the best funded candidate in any local race, reporting $79,723.68 in cash on hand at the end of the…

ROCK HILL, S.C. — Winthrop University served as the host site for the 2026 College Disc Golf National Championship for the third time, welcoming more than 300 schools and 700 athletes to Rock Hill for the four-day PDGA-sanctioned XMajor event held April 8 through 11. The Winthrop Eagles represented their home course well, finishing third in the MC3 division with a combined score of 31 under par. Kyle Krieckhaus, Jack Weaverling, Alexander Tamai, and Taylor Plummer-Fox closed out the final round with a blistering 15 under par on Winthrop Meadows, tying for third place alongside UC Davis and two NC…

The Humane Society of York County is shining a spotlight on two animals looking for their forever families this week, a charming tabby cat with striking green eyes and a young dog still healing from a difficult start to life. Suga the Tabby Suga arrived at the HSYC from Animal Control about five weeks ago and has been settling in well. The roughly four-year-old tabby is turning heads with her distinctive mint green eyes, accented by what staff describe as natural white eye liners that seem to demand attention. Staff say Suga has many sides to her personality, all of…

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Libertarian Party (SCLP) held its 2026 Nominating Convention yesterday at 1314 Rosewood Drive in Columbia, officially nominating 11 candidates for federal and state office across South Carolina. The slate spans a U.S. Senate race, three U.S. House districts, the Commissioner of Agriculture, and six South Carolina House districts — representing one of the most comprehensive ballot presences the party has achieved in recent cycles. The nominees were confirmed by Libertarian delegates gathered from across the state, completing a candidate-filing season that closed on March 30, 2026. All 11 nominees are officially filed and on…

A former Indiana University postdoctoral researcher has been sentenced to more than four months in prison after pleading guilty to smuggling bacterial DNA into the United States from China, concealed inside a mislabeled clothing shipment, federal prosecutors announced April 10. Youhuang Xiang, 32, a citizen of the People’s Republic of China, was also ordered to pay a $500 fine and serve one year of supervised release. As part of his plea agreement, Xiang agreed to immediate removal from the United States to China upon completion of his sentence. Xiang holds a doctorate from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and came…

For years, cybersecurity has been a game of catch-up. Hackers find a vulnerability, they exploit it, and defenders scramble to patch it after the damage is done. The technical term for this is “detect and respond.” It is exhausting, expensive, and increasingly losing proposition as attacks grow faster and more sophisticated. This week, something changed. A coalition of the world’s most powerful technology companies announced a coordinated effort to flip that equation — using artificial intelligence not just to respond to threats, but to find and fix them before attackers ever get the chance. The initiative is called Project Glasswing,…

By Donna K Britsch ” Harper Valley PTA”, Elvis tunes and those of Kenny Rogers or just some of the tunes that you will hear and see when you watch the Carolina copycats. 18 years ago senior men and women formed the group in Tega Cay and Fort Mill to lip sync to older tunes. They have continued to perform. They perform an events and nonprofits such as churches and retirement homes for the enjoyment of the spectators. The performances of vintage music decked out and costumes reminiscent of the songs time period is the goal of the fun living…

Several South Carolina cities rank among the best small cities in the country for launching a new business, according to a 2026 study from personal finance website WalletHub. The study compared more than 1,300 small cities across 18 metrics grouped into three categories: business environment, access to resources, and business costs. Cities included in the study have populations between 25,000 and 100,000 residents. Greenville led all South Carolina cities with an overall ranking of fifth in the nation, scoring high marks for access to resources and business costs. Spartanburg followed at 46th, bolstered by strong scores in business costs. Rock…

There is one week on the sporting calendar that stands apart from all others. Not louder. Not larger. Not more watched. But more felt. The Super Bowl is a spectacle, a party that happens to have a football game attached to it. It builds for two weeks and arrives on a Sunday night, loud and crowded and over by midnight. The Masters is something else entirely. It is a week. It breathes. It builds slowly, quietly, the way Augusta National itself seems to exist slightly outside of ordinary time. For forty years, I have planned my life around it. It…

The Tega Cay Men’s Golf Association wrapped up another memorable Lone Ranger Tournament, with competitors showcasing their best golf across a challenging and competitive field. The unique 3 Man Lone Ranger format kept every hole interesting, blending individual net scoring with two man captain’s choice teamwork for a combined score on each hole. How It Works In the 3 Man Lone Ranger format, teams of three rotate responsibilities on each hole. One player competes solo, posting a net score capped at triple bogey, while the other two pair up in a captain’s choice format with a bogey maximum and no…

ROCK HILL — A rare opportunity to view some of South Carolina’s most significant founding documents will be available Tuesday at Winthrop University, as a traveling exhibit brings three pivotal records from the American Revolution era to the Louise Pettus Archives. The exhibit, titled Foundations of a Revolution: South Carolina, 1775 to 1777 and sponsored by the South Carolina Department of Archives and History, will be on display from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a staff presentation at 11:30 a.m. Admission is free. On display will be the 1775 Articles of Association for the District East of the Wateree,…

The Spy in Your Living Room You locked your front door. You set your alarm. You did everything right. But somewhere in your house, a small blinking box quietly betrayed you and the people on the other end were not ordinary criminals. They were Russian military intelligence. That is not a hypothetical. It is exactly what happened to unsuspecting homeowners and small business owners across more than 23 states, and this week the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI fought back. On April 7, 2026, federal authorities announced the successful completion of Operation Masquerade — a court-authorized technical operation…

YORK, S.C. — Nicholas Firth enlisted in the Army after watching the September 11 attacks unfold, driven by a desire to serve and protect his country. Nearly two decades later, a nonprofit organization is giving back to him in kind, presenting the York County veteran with a specially adapted, mortgage-free home designed around his needs. Homes For Our Troops recently donated the custom-built residence on McFarland Road in York to Firth, an Army sergeant who was severely wounded during his first combat deployment in Iraq. From Balad to York County On June 9, 2006, Firth was serving as an infantryman…

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Athletes from Fort Mill, Nation Ford and Catawba Ridge competed this weekend at the All American Track Classic, hosted by Spring Valley High School in Columbia over two days. Fort Mill Fort Mill’s strongest performances came in the distance and relay events. The Yellowjackets won the boys 4×800 relay with a time of 7:50.63, edging Lexington by less than two seconds in what was the fastest team time of the day in that event. In the girls mile, Marlee Cook and Lauren Allen both contributed, finishing 25th and 26th respectively in the championship section. Cook also placed…

Every year, my brother and I get together to watch the Masters. Although neither of us has ever visited the hallowed grounds in Augusta, we’re resigned to watch the tournament on TV and listen to the roars of the crowd as Jim Nantz masterfully guides us through the course. It was Jim Nantz who coined the phrase, “a tradition unlike any other,” one that’s become synonymous with the tournament.  It’s a phrase that applies to the Masters for sure, but it also applies to many other traditions in my life. Most of which have nothing to do with money but…

A significant shift in federal law will soon change how young men in the Palmetto State fulfill their civic obligations. Starting in December 2026, the Selective Service System will move to an automatic registration process. For decades, men between the ages of 18 and 25 have been required to manually register for the draft. Under the new system, the federal government will use existing data from the Social Security Administration and other agencies to enroll eligible residents automatically as they reach the age of majority. In South Carolina, Selective Service registration has long been tied to essential state privileges. Currently,…

Two South Carolina state representatives are calling on Governor Henry McMaster to direct the state Inspector General to investigate possible financial mismanagement and misconduct at Ascent Classical Academy of Fort Mill, as the school heads into spring break with its future uncertain. Rep. Shannon S. Erickson, who chairs the House Education and Public Works Committee, and Rep. David W. Martin of District 26 sent a letter to McMaster dated April 7 requesting that the Inspector General work alongside the South Carolina Department of Education and Superintendent Weaver to determine whether financial mismanagement, misappropriation of public funds, failure of oversight, and…

A segment of Gold Hill Road is being held together by steel plates this week after a water service line leak caused significant erosion near the Knightsbridge neighborhood. York County representatives confirmed Thursday that the damage was traced to a faulty connection fitting where a water service line met the main utility line. While the leak has been successfully repaired, the underlying erosion left a portion of the roadway compromised, necessitating the temporary use of heavy-duty steel plates to keep traffic flowing. The incident is the latest in a string of infrastructure headaches for the area. Local officials noted that…

A lakeside York County suburb has claimed the top spot in the state, with a neighboring community not far behind. Tega Cay ranked first on Niche.com’s 2026 Best Places to Live in South Carolina list, earning an overall grade of A+ and a perfect A+ for public schools. Fort Mill came in fifth, also earning an A+ overall and an A+ for public schools, giving York County two communities in the top five of a ranking that evaluated 438 places across the Palmetto State. Niche.com builds its annual rankings using data from the U.S. Census, FBI, Bureau of Labor Statistics,…

A New Weapon, A New Law, A First Conviction The rise of artificial intelligence has brought remarkable tools into everyday life, but it has also handed dangerous capabilities to dangerous people. This week, a federal courtroom in Columbus, Ohio made history, and the outcome sends a clear message to anyone who might think AI-generated abuse exists in a legal gray area. On April 7, 2026, James Strahler II, 37, of Columbus pleaded guilty to a campaign of cyberstalking and AI-assisted abuse targeting multiple victims, both adults and children. Prosecutors announced that his conviction on one of the charges makes him…

The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office has issued a high-level alert to the public and law enforcement following the discovery of cychlorphine, a potent new synthetic opioid, within the state. These types of synthetic drugs are typically manufactured in overseas laboratories and smuggled into the United States by international drug cartels. Cychlorphine is engineered for extreme potency and high levels of addiction, often making it more dangerous than traditional opioids. Because it is frequently mixed into other illicit substances without the user’s knowledge, it creates a high risk for accidental, fatal overdoses. A Growing Public Safety Threat State officials describe…

How The Patriot turned the Carolina Piedmont into Revolutionary War South Carolina and made Rock Hill the center of the movie world for a season In the fall of 1999, something unusual began appearing along the back roads of York County, South Carolina. Catering trucks rolled past cotton fields. Generators hummed in the predawn dark. Men in tricorn hats and knee breeches smoked cigarettes near craft services tents, their muskets propped against equipment cases. Hollywood had come to the Carolina Piedmont, and for 101 days, it would not leave quietly. The production was The Patriot, director Roland Emmerich’s sweeping Revolutionary…

Former Gamecocks star’s brush with death fuels new mission and a push to protect Fort Mill lives When Connor Shaw wore No. 14 for the South Carolina Gamecocks, he was nearly impossible to beat. Starting at quarterback from 2011 through 2013, Shaw finished with a 27-5 career record as a starter, including a perfect 17-0 mark at home,  a legacy that earned him the title of the greatest quarterback in program history, according to coach Steve Spurrier himself. But the story Shaw wants to tell these days has nothing to do with football records. On September 17, 2025, Shaw collapsed…

The Tega Cay Sun is thrilled to announce a special opportunity to honor the achievements of our local high school graduates in the upcoming June print edition. As a heartfelt thank you for the community’s continued support, we are offering a unique way to celebrate this significant milestone – entirely free of charge! Stepping back into a time when newspapers served as the primary means of community communication, the Tega Cay Sun is reviving the tradition of featuring graduating seniors in print. This provides a wonderful platform to showcase their hard work and success to the entire community. We invite…

A Fort Mill charter school is without a management company and operating in limbo after Ascent Classical Academies terminated its contract and walked away this week, citing the unauthorized removal of school funds and a breakdown in board governance that it says made continued operations impossible. Ascent Classical Academies, the Colorado-based company that managed Ascent Classical Academy of Fort Mill, announced it ceased operations at the school effective April 6. The school’s charter, however, remains with an independent governing board authorized by the Charter Institute at Erskine, and the ultimate fate of the school is now in the hands of…

By Debbie Wey and Gardening On The Cay Spring has arrived on the Cay, and for gardeners, it truly is the most exciting time of year. Trees are leafing out, beds are waking up, and that familiar urge to dig in the dirt and start planting is hard to resist. Over the past few years, I’ve focused on growing flowers specifically for cutting—and like many gardeners, I’ve learned as much from trial and error as from success. If you’ve ever thought about growing your own bouquets, now is the perfect time to start. Lessons from a Backyard Cutting Garden My…

Intermittent fasting has become a popular way to lose weight without the hassle of counting every calorie. Instead of focusing on what you eat, this method focuses on when you eat — and for many people, that’s a lot easier to stick with long-term. What Is Intermittent Fasting? There are different styles of intermittent fasting, but one of the most common is time- restricted eating. This approach limits eating to a specific window of time each day — usually around six to eight hours. For example, someone might only eat between noon and 8 p.m., fasting the rest of the…

The York County Sheriff’s Office is seeking help from the public following a shooting incident on Saturday night that left one person injured. Deputies responded to the area of Hall Spencer Road and Cureton Ferry Road at approximately 10:20 p.m. on April 4, 2026. Upon arrival, they discovered a victim who had been struck by a bullet. The current condition of the victim has not yet been released. According to initial reports from the scene, neighbors in the Catawba community informed investigators that no unfamiliar vehicles were spotted in the immediate area at the time of the gunfire. Based on…

South Carolina lawmakers are weighing a significant shift in how family courts handle child custody cases through a new proposal dubbed the Equal Parenting Act. The bill seeks to establish a legal presumption that equal, 50-50 custody is in the best interest of a child when both parents are fit and willing caregivers. Currently, South Carolina judges operate under decades-old case law that creates a “rebuttable presumption” against 50-50 custody. This standard effectively discourages judges from awarding equal time unless “extenuating circumstances” are proven. Proponents of the new legislation argue that this existing framework unnecessarily separates children from capable parents…

A York County family whose land sits adjacent to the controversial Silfab Solar manufacturing facility is taking matters into its own hands, pursuing a rezoning that would permanently block warehouses, distribution centers, and heavy manufacturing from ever being built on the remaining 50 acres they still own — and replacing those possibilities with retail shops, restaurants, and medical offices instead. York County Council unanimously approved the first reading Monday night of a rezoning request by the Eubanks family limited partnership to change approximately 50.8 acres at the intersection of Gold Hill Road and Highway 21 from Light Industrial to General…

A planned age-restricted residential community along South Carolina Highway 160 moved a step closer to reality after York County Council unanimously approved the first reading of a condition amendment Monday night, clearing the way for the developer to build the project using a more flexible ownership structure that proponents say will better serve its intended residents. The development, proposed by Stanley Martin Homes, has already received prior county approval for construction of attached residential units on approximately 14 acres off Highway 160 in the northeastern part of the county, near the North Carolina border. Monday’s action did not change the…

A new drive-through coffee shop and ice cream shop are in the works for a busy stretch of South Carolina Highway 160 near Tega Cay, following a first-reading vote by York County Council on Monday night that advanced a rezoning request for the roughly 1.8-acre site. The two businesses would occupy a parcel at the intersection of Highway 160 and Vandor Springs Road, adjacent to an existing Goodwill store. While the applicant has not made a formal public announcement, planning staff confirmed during the April 6 council meeting that the proposed tenants are Dutch Brothers Coffee and an ice cream…

Law enforcement agencies across the Piedmont are joining forces this week for “Operation Intercept,” a coordinated crackdown on distracted driving and speeding. The initiative pairs deputies from Chester, York, and Lancaster counties with the South Carolina Highway Patrol to increase visibility and enforcement during the busy spring travel season. The operation focuses heavily on the “L Corridor,” a stretch of roadway including SC Primary 9 and US Primary 21. Data from the last three years reveals the high stakes of safety in this area: over 1,100 people have been injured and 17 have died in traffic collisions. Authorities identify distracted…

The York County Council convened its regular meeting Monday, April 6, 2026, with Chairwoman Cox presiding, opening what proved to be a lengthy and emotionally charged session that stretched well past four hours. The evening began with the council pausing to honor the memory of longtime County Attorney Michael Kendree, who died unexpectedly on March 21, before moving through a full slate of business that included the acceptance of a $100,000 corporate road improvement donation, passionate public testimony on data center development, five rezoning actions, a development agreement for two new Clover School District schools, a land use code update,…

South Carolina has earned the number two spot in Site Selection Group’s 2025 manufacturing competitiveness rankings. The annual report confirms the state’s continued status as a premier destination for major industrial projects. The rankings utilize a “GeoCision” model, evaluating states on three pillars: Workforce and Market Alignment (40%), Operating Costs (30%), and Geographic Positioning (30%). South Carolina’s impressive standing was driven by a first-place finish in the Workforce and Market Alignment category, which measures labor quality and the synergy between local education and industry needs. This year’s top five list is dominated by the Southeast and Midwest, with South Carolina…

South Carolina lawmakers are advancing a bill to join the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact, a multi-state agreement designed to simplify the licensing process for educators relocating from other states. The legislation aims to eliminate the lengthy and expensive recertification process currently required for out-of-state teachers. By joining the compact—which already includes over a dozen states—South Carolina would recognize the credentials of experienced educators, allowing them to enter classrooms almost immediately. Supporters, including the South Carolina Education Association, argue this is a vital tool for filling critical vacancies and supporting military families who move frequently. While the bill streamlines the transfer…

Charlotte-based Atrium Health has increased its real estate footprint in York County, fueling further momentum for its upcoming hospital project. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Hospital Authority recently finalized a $5 million purchase of more than 10 acres located at the intersection of Interstate 77 and Sutton Road. The acquisition places the health system near the Masons Bend community, adding to its existing property holdings in the rapidly growing corridor. While Atrium has not officially confirmed the specific location for its primary facility, the Sutton Road site now stands as one of its most substantial land assets in the region. The land purchase…

If we’re honest, progress is not exactly what it’s cracked up to be. For every step forward, we seem to make three back. The key, of course, as great minds have reminded us, is to keep going. There are, however, times when ‘keeping going’ is not the easiest thing to do when frustration intercedes. The philosopher and mathematician, Bertrand Russell, may have had it right when he argued that the stupid are always cocksure and the intelligent full of doubt. I think he may have been thinking of frustrations in life, especially with the trivial things. Comus was reminded of…

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has officially signed the Smart Heart Act into law, establishing rigorous new cardiac emergency preparedness standards for schools across the state. The legislation is the result of two years of dedicated advocacy from a broad coalition of medical professionals, educators, and families. The new law requires every public school in South Carolina to develop and implement a formal Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP). A central pillar of the Act mandates that automated external defibrillators (AEDs) be readily accessible at all school athletic venues. This requirement extends to off-site events where school teams compete, ensuring a…

Commuters in York County should prepare for significant traffic adjustments beginning this week on one of the area’s most heavily traveled corridors. Starting Wednesday evening, construction crews will begin implementing a new traffic pattern on South Carolina Highway 160 (Exit 85) at the Interstate 77 interchange. The work is a scheduled component of the ongoing interchange improvement project aimed at enhancing vehicle flow and safety. To minimize the impact on daytime commuters and local businesses, the South Carolina Department of Transportation has scheduled the work to occur during overnight hours. Operations are set to run from 7 p.m. each evening…

The Fort Mill Fire Department has been recognized as one of 241 fire departments across South Carolina to receive the 2025 Fire Safe South Carolina Community Designation, state officials announced this week. The designation, awarded by Fire Safe South Carolina, recognizes departments that demonstrate strong community risk reduction programs through consistent fire and life safety education, community partnerships, and data-driven approaches to understanding and reducing local hazards. Fort Mill’s department was among nine York County fire agencies to earn the designation, joining the Bethel Fire Department, City of York Fire Department, Flint Hill Fire Rescue, Lesslie Volunteer Fire Department, Riverview…

The Tega Cay Fire Department has been recognized as one of 241 fire departments across South Carolina to receive the 2025 Fire Safe South Carolina Community Designation, state officials announced this week. The designation, awarded by Fire Safe South Carolina, recognizes departments that demonstrate strong community risk reduction programs through consistent fire and life safety education, community partnerships, and data-driven approaches to understanding and reducing local hazards. Tega Cay’s department was among nine York County fire agencies to earn the designation, joining the Bethel Fire Department, City of York Fire Department, Flint Hill Fire Rescue, Fort Mill Fire Department, Lesslie…

YORK COUNTY, SC – The York County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Enforcement Unit has been recognized for excellence at the South Carolina Law Enforcement Network (SCLEN) Awards, earning Gold status for its outstanding efforts in traffic safety initiatives. The Gold designation reflects the unit’s comprehensive approach to traffic enforcement, including proactive enforcement strategies, community education, and consistent participation in statewide safety meetings. These combined efforts demonstrate the agency’s commitment to reducing traffic-related incidents and enhancing roadway safety across York County. In addition to the unit’s recognition, the 16th Judicial Circuit was ranked number 1 in the state for its collective traffic…

At a quiet rescue nestled in Fort Mill, two animals are doing what shelter pets do best — waiting, hoping, and in one case, talking about it at length. Whiskerbell has opinions, and she will share them. The three-year-old tuxedo cat arrived at the Humane Society of York County as an owner surrender, and from the moment she settled in, staff say she made her presence known. It is those whiskers that stop people first — long, wild, and brilliantly white, shooting out from her black-and-white face like she just got the surprise of her life. Someone thought she looked…

COLUMBIA, S.C. – In observance of National Public Health Week, April 6-12, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is affirming its commitment to improving the health and well-being of everyone in South Carolina. Each April, National Public Health Week is observed to recognize public health contributions and address key health issues. The theme for this year’s observance is “Ready. Set. Action.,” and DPH is using the annual observance to emphasize how the agency prepares, aligns, and acts to improve health outcomes for South Carolinians. Public health protects and improves the health of people and their communities. This work…

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Every April, the azaleas bloom along Magnolia Lane and the golf world turns its attention to Augusta National Golf Club for the Masters Tournament. For South Carolina, the first major of the year carries a particular weight, a blend of pride, history, and this year, fresh anticipation. The 90th edition of the Masters gets underway Thursday, and the Palmetto State will have eyes firmly fixed on Augusta. THE CHAMPION WHO CAME HOME No story captures South Carolina’s bond with the Masters quite like Dustin Johnson’s. Johnson was born 75 miles from Augusta National in Columbia, South Carolina,…

A new national study is painting a stark picture of retirement anxiety in America, with the amount workers believe they need to retire comfortably surging past $1.4 million even as many of those closest to retirement say they plan to start drawing Social Security as soon as they possibly can, regardless of the financial cost of doing so early. Northwestern Mutual’s 2026 Planning and Progress Study, released this week, found that Americans’ so-called “magic number” for a comfortable retirement has climbed to $1.46 million, up more than 15 percent from last year’s figure of $1.26 million and representing a $200,000…

Rock Hill, SC — South Pointe High School hosted the fourth installment of its 2026 home track and field series Thursday, April 2, drawing nine programs from across York and Lancaster counties for a full afternoon of competition timed by Mitchell Timing. Schools competing included Chester, Clover, Lancaster, Lewisville, Riverwalk Academy, South Pointe, Westminster Catawba Christian, York, and York County Trailblazers. Six performances from the day earned MileSplit’s US Second Team elite designation. South Pointe won the boys team title with 195 points, well ahead of Clover’s 162.50. York was third with 112. On the girls side, South Pointe again…

BELMONT, N.C. — The beloved green space just 20 miles from Uptown Charlotte has a new name, a new look, and a long-range plan that stretches well beyond its famous flower beds. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is now Daniel Stowe Conservancy,  a rebrand that organizers say better reflects the full scope of what the 380-acre property along Lake Wylie has always offered, and what it intends to become. “Allow us to reintroduce ourselves,” the organization says on its newly relaunched website. The name change, officials explain, was never about leaving the gardens behind. It was about making sure visitors knew…

The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has introduced a new digital tool designed to simplify how residents report concerns regarding licensed healthcare and personal care facilities. The online portal aims to modernize the oversight process and ensure higher standards of safety and care across the state. The new system covers an expansive list of regulated establishments. Residents can now use the platform to file reports concerning nursing homes, dialysis centers, and home health agencies. Additionally, the portal’s reach extends to non-medical licensed facilities, such as tattoo and body piercing studios. A key feature of the portal is a…

A large hole opened Saturday on Gold Hill Road , also known as S.C. 460  in the Fort Mill area, drawing a police response and raising concerns about road safety along one of York County’s busiest corridors. The hole, described by witnesses as a significant opening in the roadway consistent with a sinkhole, appeared in front of the New York Butcher Shoppe on Gold Hill Road. Officers were on scene as of the time of this report. Gold Hill Road carries heavy commuter traffic between Tega Cay, Fort Mill, and the Interstate 77 interchange at Exit 88, making any lane…

A Rock Hill woman was killed Friday morning after being struck by a passing vehicle on Interstate 77 in York County, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol and the York County Coroner’s Office. The crash occurred around 10:30 a.m. on I-77 northbound. Troopers said a 2014 Jeep Wrangler, which was towing a utility trailer, became disabled and came to a stop in the middle of the road. The driver exited the vehicle and was struck by an oncoming 2018 Jeep Renegade. The York County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Katherine Y. Mendoza Amador, 36, of Rock Hill. She…

My family moved to Greer, South Carolina from New Jersey in 1986. The town we moved from up north wasn’t considered large; however, it was much more developed and overcrowded compared to our new home in the south. Traffic jams and four lane highways were replaced with open spaces and two lane roads. We may as well have moved to another country, the differences were stark and shocking to my 11 year old mind.  I couldn’t see myself living anywhere else but my embrace of the south took time. Moving from a place I had always known was difficult for…

For years, drivers navigating the Exit 85 interchange in Fort Mill have dealt with some of York County’s most frustrating gridlock. That’s about to change — and next week, commuters will see one of the most dramatic signs of progress yet. A Bridge in Transition The existing SC 160 bridge over Interstate 77 is set to close next week as traffic shifts to a newly constructed span. The changeover, scheduled for April 8–12, will require nightly lane closures in both directions on SC 160 near Exit 85, running from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. each day. The work is being…

A Rock Hill-based coffee company with roots throughout the Carolinas is heading to York — and this time, with something new. A first-of-its-kind concept Knowledge Perk Coffee Company announced plans late last month for a new café and drive-thru location at 1530 Alexander Love Highway in York, marking what the company says will be its first location to combine indoor seating, a drive-thru lane, and a large outdoor patio under one roof. The location is currently under construction with an anticipated opening in the fourth quarter of 2026. The concept builds on the company’s drive-thru-only location in Little River, SC,…

Senior makes history at Camp Perry, becoming champion among all branches CAMP PERRY, OH — One month after standing atop the podium in Sandy, Utah, Fort Mill High School Senior Joshua Prince made history again. Competing at the prestigious JROTC All-Service National Air Rifle Championships at Camp Perry, Ohio, Prince finished first overall among 114 of the nation’s most elite senior marksmen,  claiming the title of JROTC All-Service National Champion. An Invitation-Only Stage Camp Perry is no ordinary venue. Steeped in American marksmanship tradition and home to the National Matches, it is a place where only the very best are…

Members of the South Carolina State Fire’s Palmetto Incident Support Team (IST) have been authorized to deploy to Hawaii to aid in response and recovery efforts following recent flash flooding in the region. During their deployment, IST members will work within the Honolulu County Emergency Operations Center, collaborating with local, state, and federal partners to support ongoing operations. The deployment was arranged through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), a national mutual aid system designed to facilitate disaster assistance between states. This is not the first time South Carolina has provided support to Hawaii through EMAC. The state previously deployed…

There is a small box in your home, probably tucked behind a bookshelf or sitting on a counter that every phone, laptop, smart TV, and security camera in your house connects through. It is your Wi-Fi router, and for most of us, it has been quietly doing its job for years without a second thought. On March 23, 2026, the federal government started paying a great deal of attention to that box. The Federal Communications Commission made a sweeping and largely unprecedented move: it added all consumer-grade routers manufactured in foreign countries to its official Covered List — a register…

On March 17, County Council Chair Cox received a letter from Attorney General Alan Wilson requesting specific information regarding the zoning and permitting processes for Silfab’s Development in Fort Mill.  Within this release are the responses from the Chair and County Management to Mr. Wilson dated April 2, 2026. In addition, to address many of the questions posed by the public to the County, the County is informed that the first circuit court case, which is the appeal of the May 2024 Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) decision, is set for hearing May 26, 2026.  The other circuit case, which…

Attorney General Alan Wilson, Congressman Ralph Norman, Congresswoman Nancy Mace, and State Senator Josh Kimbrell took the stage Wednesday night, with affordability, infrastructure, and government waste dominating the conversation. South Carolina’s Republican race for governor officially kicked off Wednesday evening as four candidates gathered at the historic Newberry Opera House for the first in a series of debates ahead of the June 9th primary. The hour-long forum, co-moderated by Justin Dory of Fox Carolina and panelists from Gray Media outlets across the state, offered voters their first direct comparison of the candidates vying to become the state’s 118th governor. Six…

April 1, 2026 | Catawba Ridge High School | Fort Mill, SC Fort Mill High School put on a commanding performance at the Catawba Ridge Track and Field Meet, sweeping the team titles on both the girls’ and boys’ sides. The Yellow Jackets tallied 336 points in the girls’ competition,  more than double the 147 scored by host Catawba Ridge while the boys edged Indian Land 261–206 with Catawba Ridge finishing third at 169. Westminster Catawba Christian rounded out the field in both divisions. The meet, timed by TDeming Timing and Events and held at Catawba Ridge High School’s home…

The Fort Mill School District Board of Trustees met Wednesday evening for its regular monthly meeting, covering a packed agenda that included financial updates, school calendar adjustments, a first look at the district’s strategic plan, and a contested decision over makeup days for students affected by a nearby industrial incident. Special Recognitions The evening opened on a lighter note with Superintendent Grey Young presenting the Superintendent’s Red Nose Award to four district employees: Victoria Bujak, Jessica Calloway, Melissa Grupp, and Gwen Hoyle. Dr. Gales Scroggs also recognized Middle and High School students who earned All-State Band honors. School Spotlight: River…

Rock Hill Industrial Piping & Fabrication has filed a lawsuit against Silfab Solar claiming it has not received payment for completed work totaling nearly $80,000 as reported by WBTV.  The lawsuit, filed on March 26, alleges that the Rock Hill-based company performed essential piping work at the Silfab facility in September 2025. According to court documents, Rock Hill Industrial Piping & Fabrication provided both labor and equipment for this project. The company issued two invoices to Silfab Solar following the completion of its work. The first, dated September 24, 2025, was for $48,599.50, while the second invoice, sent on December…

Tragedy struck Tuesday night when a bicyclist was killed in a collision on Hands Mill Highway, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol and WCNC.  The victim, identified as 39-year-old Thomas Wayne Linder, was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident occurred just before 10 p.m. near Ross Brook Trace when a Jeep Cherokee struck Linder from behind as he was riding his bicycle. The impact caused Linder to be thrown off his bike and onto the roadway. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Further details will be released as the investigation continues.

Lancaster County food service establishments posted strong overall results in March 2026, with the vast majority of businesses earning top marks from the South Carolina Department of Agriculture. Of the 90 inspections conducted across the county during the month, one establishment received a C grade and two received B grades — though all three were subsequently upgraded to passing grades following reinspection. The inspections cover a wide range of food service businesses across Lancaster, Indian Land, Kershaw, Heath Springs, and Van Wyck, including restaurants, school cafeterias, convenience stores, and specialty food operations. Summary of Below-A Grades Establishment Address Score /…

York County food service establishments largely maintained strong food safety standards in March 2026, with the vast majority of inspected businesses earning top marks. Of the 336 inspections conducted by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture during the month, one establishment received a C grade and six received B grades — though all seven were subsequently upgraded to passing grades following reinspection. The inspections span restaurants, school cafeterias, convenience stores, food trucks, and other retail food establishments across Fort Mill, Rock Hill, York, Clover, Tega Cay, Lake Wylie, and surrounding communities. The Only C Grade: Sharon Grill The most concerning…

It is a Tuesday night at the kitchen table. Three siblings passing a phone around, searching for a photo of Mom that feels like her. The screen asks for a passcode none of them knows. Someone says, “Try her birthday.” Someone else holds their breath. On the old laptop there is a Google account she never signed out of, but the two-step verification code goes to her dead phone. The room is full of memories no one can reach. The kettle boils. The house feels too quiet. One simple setting, set up years earlier, would have changed everything. Most of…

Three York County communities earn top marks in new national ranking highlighting the best places for senior living in the Palmetto State York County has reason to celebrate. Three of its communities, Tega Cay, Fort Mill, and Clover have been recognized among the safest towns in South Carolina for retirees, according to a newly published ranking by World Atlas, the global geography and travel publication. The report, titled “8 Safest Towns in South Carolina for Senior Living,” highlights communities across the state that offer scenic surroundings, everyday convenience, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community — qualities that make…

After nearly six decades of waiting, retired Marine Corps Maj. James Capers Jr. is finally on the verge of receiving the nation’s highest military honor. President Donald Trump has signed legislation authorizing the presentation of the Medal of Honor to the Bishopville native. The legislation, H.R. 3377, sponsored by South Carolina Congressman Ralph Norman, authorizes the President to award the Medal of Honor to retired U.S. Marine Corps Major James Capers Jr. for his extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War. The formal Medal of Honor ceremony will be announced at a later date. A Hero Under Fire From March 31…

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers are bringing the best of Carolina prep football back to the big stage this summer, announcing the full lineup for the fourth annual Keep Pounding High School Classic presented by Belk. The doubleheader is scheduled for Saturday, August 29 at Bank of America Stadium, featuring the Indian Land Warriors vs. the Northwestern Trojans at 4:00 p.m., followed by the Cardinal Gibbons Crusaders taking on the Hough Huskies at 8:00 p.m.  General admission tickets are priced at $8 and are available now via Ticketmaster.com. The matchups promise elite-level competition. The defending state champion Northwestern…

South Carolina House lawmakers have passed a Fiscal Year 2027 budget that allocates more than $53 million toward reducing tuition costs at the state’s public colleges. However, the funding comes with strict new strings attached that could force universities to suspended certain academic programs. The House version of the budget marks a significant shift in how the state handles higher education. While it continues a trend of tuition freezes, it also introduces a $26 million pool for 16 specific public institutions, including Clemson University and the University of South Carolina. This amount represents a 50% decrease in this specific funding…

Six local races head to a primary election — here’s what’s at stake Before York County voters cast a single ballot in November, they will first have to settle some spirited disagreements within their own parties. Six local races — spread across the State House, County Council, and the Probate Judge bench — have drawn enough candidates within the same party to trigger a primary election. That means Republican and Democratic primary voters will serve as the first filter, narrowing crowded fields before the general election. In some of these contests, the primary may effectively decide the winner; in others,…

Two State House seats head to a Republican primary — with Democratic challengers waiting Lancaster County’s 2026 primary season is focused and consequential. While many local offices on the ballot drew only a single candidate — leaving voters with no primary choice at all — two State House districts have generated enough Republican interest to produce a genuine intraparty contest before the general election. In both cases, the dynamic is the same: multiple Republicans are competing for the right to represent their party in November, while a Democratic challenger waits on the other side. That structure makes the Republican primary…

On the surface, Addie Lupton is your typical 12 year old pre teen living in Tega Cay. She enjoys wakeboarding, playing pickleball and hanging out with friends and family. Generally speaking, Addie likes to do anything that challenges her to get better. She has successfully channeled this competitive drive into her golf game, most recently by earning a spot in the prestigious Drive, Chip, and Putt National Finals at Augusta National next month. According to Addie, she “practices golf pretty much every day.” Attending a virtual school helps her balance schoolwork with her love of golf, giving her the flexibility…

South Carolina lawmakers are advancing a bill that would establish the state’s first comprehensive set of laws governing drone flight. The move comes as federal authorities increase enforcement and local agencies seek more power to address a rise in unauthorized or dangerous aerial activity. Currently, South Carolina lacks a specific state-level framework to regulate where unmanned aircraft can and cannot fly. The proposed legislation seeks to close this gap by creating state laws that mirror Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, providing local police with the legal “teeth” to detain and prosecute pilots for nefarious or disruptive flights. The bill defines…

A Digital Heist Years in the Making Imagine a burglar who never breaks a window or picks a lock. Instead, he quietly slips into your home while you’re asleep, photographs every key on your keyring, copies down your bank account numbers, snaps a picture of your credit cards, and is gone before morning — leaving no trace. You won’t know anything is missing until weeks or months later, when your accounts start going dark one by one. That is almost exactly what a piece of software called RedLine Infostealer does — and this week, one of the men allegedly behind…

(COLUMBIA, S.C.) –Attorney General Alan Wilson has joined a multistate effort to combat the alarming rise in drones that are illegally dropping contraband into prisons, including narcotics, weapons, cell phones, and other items. Per federal law, only a narrow set of federal agencies are authorized to detect, track, and mitigate unauthorized drones. Meaning, correctional officials – who are on the front lines of this issue – often lack the legal authority and the necessary tools to intervene in real time. To address this gap, Attorney General Wilson and 20 other Attorneys General are asking the Trump administration to provide state…

The United States District Court for the District of South Carolina has unsealed an indictment charging five individuals for their roles in a fraud and money laundering scheme that resulted in a cumulative loss of at least $3.5 million. The following have been charged for their roles in the scheme: Xavier Gordon, 25, of Charleston; Warner Gordon, 27, of Charleston; Kevin Milton Simpson, 30, of Charleston; Tashagae Narcia Leslie, 25, of Orlando, Florida; and Kemar Christopher Edwards, 28, of Charleston. The indictment alleges that the defendants engaged in a scheme to deceive individuals by convincing them that they were the…