News

A federal grand jury has indicted John Alexander Bellue on charges that he threatened to kill President Donald Trump in a post on the social media platform X, according to an indictment filed May 19 in the Rock Hill Division of the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina. Bellue faces two counts. Count one charges him with threatening the President of the United States, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 871(a). Count two charges him with interstate communication of a threat to injure, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 875(c). According…

The Humane Society of York County is spotlighting two adoptable animals this week and renewing its call for foster families, volunteers and new hires as kitten season takes hold at the Fort Mill shelter. The nonprofit rescue, located at 8177 Regent Parkway, has placed 283 animals into permanent homes so far in 2026, including 83 dogs and 200 cats. Staff say the warmer months traditionally drive a surge in stray and surrendered animals, particularly kittens, and the organization is leaning on community support to keep pace. Meet Augustus Augustus, a black and white cat estimated to be just over a…

Early voting for the 2026 South Carolina statewide primary opens Tuesday, May 26, at three York County locations, including a site in Fort Mill, and runs through Friday, June 5. The early voting period gives York County residents nearly two weeks to cast ballots ahead of primary day on Tuesday, June 9. Voters can use any of the three centers regardless of where they live in the county. Where to vote Carolinas Cornerstone Church, at 1790 Gardendale Rd in Fort Mill, is the closest site for Tega Cay and Fort Mill voters. Holiday Inn Rock Hill at the Galleria Mall,…

To most Americans, Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, a long weekend defined by backyard barbecues, lake trips, and retail sales. But across Tega Cay today, the community is gathering to strip away the commercial noise and return the day to its solemn, sacred origin: honoring the men and women who gave their lives in defense of the United States. Memorial Day is not Veterans Day. It is not a celebration of military service, but a profound collective mourning for those whose service cost them everything. Today, local remembrance events are providing residents the space to look past…

Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest of a 45-year-old Fort Mill man on six felony charges related to the sexual exploitation of a minor. John David Anderson was taken into custody on May 20, 2026. The arrest was executed by Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force investigators with the York County Sheriff’s Office. The Attorney General’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations, both member agencies of the state’s ICAC Task Force, assisted with the operation. The investigation began after local authorities received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). According to digital evidence…

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is seeking public feedback on adding the new Four-Year Interstate Pavement Plan to the state’s 2024–2033 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). The plan outlines major interstate resurfacing and rehabilitation projects scheduled for fiscal years 2026–27 through 2029–30. In compliance with state law under Act 114 of 2007, all included projects were selected for funding utilizing rigorous ranking processes based strictly on objective and quantifiable engineering factors. SCDOT will review all feedback during a mandatory 21-day public comment window running from May 22 through June 11, 2026.  Participation is taking place through multiple channels:…

My youngest daughter is sneaking up on her pre-teen years. At ten years old, we’re starting to have conversations about popular kids, bullying and the importance of being kind in the face of cruelty.  To put it in simple terms she could understand, I told her she has a decision in life to either be a wolf or a sheep. The wolf approaches all situations with a lone confidence to do what’s right for themselves, their friends and family. Although a wolf walks alone, a pack may eventually form behind them on their path through life. A sheep follows the…

FORT MILL — Sixteen Republican candidates for state and federal offices addressed York County voters Thursday evening at the Reaganites Conservative Forum, held at Antioch International Church on Glynwood Forest Drive. The forum gave attendees the chance to hear directly from candidates seeking the offices of governor, attorney general, commissioner of agriculture, US Senate, US Congress, the South Carolina House and York County Probate Judge before the June 9 primary election. Reaganites president Nancy Nicholson opened the program and described the organization as a grassroots political action committee registered in South Carolina that supports conservative candidates. Pastor Jesse Enns of…

DAHLONEGA, GA — The University of North Georgia (UNG) has officially released its list of graduates for the spring 2026 semester, celebrating more than 1,700 students who earned degrees and certificates. Among the standout graduates is Maya Cameron of Fort Mill, South Carolina, who graduated Summa Cum Laude—the highest academic honor—with a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. The majority of the spring graduating class took part in the commencement ceremonies held from May 12 to May 15 at the Convocation Center on UNG’s main campus in Dahlonega. About the University of North Georgia With a student body of 20,317 across…

SPARTANBURG, SC — The Spartanburg Methodist College (SMC) athletic department has officially released its Athletic Director’s Honor Roll for the spring 2026 semester, recognizing an elite group of student-athletes who excel both on the field and in the classroom. To earn a spot on the prestigious list, student-athletes must maintain a 3.25 GPA or higher while carrying a full-time academic load of 12 or more credit hours during the semester. Among those honored are several standout athletes from across the Upstate and Piedmont regions, representing a diverse range of sports: Greyson Wild (Fort Mill, SC) – Baseball Michael Decuir (Clover,…

The South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) has announced the return of the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program on June 1, providing financial assistance to low-income seniors to purchase fresh, local produce. The seasonal initiative aims to supplement the diets of older residents while bolstering the state’s agricultural economy. Funded by a seasonal grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the program will expand to all 46 South Carolina counties this year. Approved participants will receive $50 via five $10 paper checks to buy unprocessed fruits and vegetables at authorized farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and mobile markets. Applications…

The Rock Hill Police Department is currently investigating an early morning shooting that left two people injured on Thursday. Emergency dispatchers received a call just before 6:00 AM regarding a shooting at a residence on Henderson Street. The home is located in a residential neighborhood situated just off of Saluda Street. Upon arrival, responding officers located two victims at the scene suffering from injuries connected to the gunfire. Both individuals were treated for wounds that investigators have since confirmed are not life-threatening. Authorities have only identified the victims as a 36-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman. As of the latest…

York County is aware of two unrelated news releases, one from the South Carolina Attorney General and the other from Citizens Alliance for Government Integrity (CAGI) related to the County’s involvement with Silfab Solar. The County has issued the below statements in response. Statement on the South Carolina Attorney General’s request for an independent review: “York County shares the Attorney General’s commitment to public safety and welcomes the independent consultant’s review of this matter. We are confident that applicable legal processes and procedures were followed throughout, as multiple courts have now affirmed, and we look forward to cooperating fully with…

A Fort Mill area nonprofit representing more than 8,000 York County residents has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to review York County’s permitting of the Silfab Solar manufacturing facility on Logistics Lane, arguing that county officials kept issuing permits for a use the county’s own zoning appeals board had ruled prohibited. The petition for a writ of certiorari was filed May 14 by Citizens Alliance for Government Integrity, the nonprofit that has spent more than two years challenging the conversion of a warehouse of about 840,000 square feet at 7149 Logistics Lane into a solar panel and photovoltaic cell manufacturing…

The Tega Cay City Council moved forward with its fiscal blueprint for the coming year on Monday night, but the session quickly shifted into a forum on regional transit cuts and an escalating environmental crisis threatening Lake Wylie property values. Council Greenlights Balanced Budget The council unanimously approved the first reading of the fiscal year 2026–2027 municipal budget. Under the proposed ordinance, the local property tax millage rate will hold steady at 86 mills. To keep pace with rising operational costs, residents will see a 1.5% increase in trash collection fees, setting the rate at $18.31 per month. Municipal utility…

CULLOWHEE, NC — Western Carolina University has announced its academic honor rolls for the Spring 2026 semester, recognizing thousands of students for their exceptional academic performance. Among those honored are numerous students from our local communities who achieved spots on the prestigious Chancellor’s and Dean’s Lists. The Chancellor’s List To qualify for the Chancellor’s List, students must achieve a grade point average (GPA) of 3.8 or higher. A total of 3,170 students earned this distinction for Spring 2026. Students named to the Chancellor’s list are also automatically included on the Dean’s List. The following local students have been named to…

NASHVILLE, TN — Belmont University has officially released its Dean’s List for the spring 2026 semester, recognizing two exceptional students from York County for their outstanding academic achievements. Local students earning this prestigious honor include: Kristina Caputo of Fort Mill (29715) Molly Barbery of Rock Hill (29732) Caputo and Barbery are among approximately 49% of the university’s 6,724 undergraduate students to secure a spot on the list this term. To qualify for the Dean’s List at Belmont, students must maintain a minimum course load of 12 credit hours, earn a quality grade point average of 3.5 or higher, and receive…

YORK COUNTY, SC – York County Sheriff’s Office Detectives have made an arrest in the theft of money from the Field Day Park investigation, located at 1101 Field Day Lane in Clover. Detectives identified Park Superintendent Jason Cameron Ratterree as the sole suspect in this investigation. After an exhaustive investigation and review of all collected evidence, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Jason Ratterree on charges of Embezzlement exceeding $10,000.  No other park or York County employees were identified as suspects. On March 20, 2026, YCSO was asked to investigate financial irregularities at Field Day Park following an internal investigation….

COLUMBIA, SC – Lieutenant Alex Clark of the York County Sheriff’s Office has been named the 2025 Governor’s County Law Enforcement Officer of the Year for county agencies, recognizing his extraordinary leadership, investigative excellence, courage under pressure, and unwavering commitment to protecting the most innocent victims and serving the citizens of York County. The award was presented by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster at a ceremony in Columbia on May 19, 2026. “South Carolina is fortunate to have the best law enforcement officers in the country. Their work is essential to keeping our communities safe and too often goes unrecognized,”…

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Governor Henry McMaster has signed legislation officially designating March 1st as Religious Liberty Day in South Carolina. The new law permanently establishes this annual observance, celebrating the state’s longstanding commitment to religious liberty for all. The law affirms that religious liberty is a God-given right and one of the foundational principles upon which both the United States and South Carolina were established. Elder David Winters, Area Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who chaired the January 2026 Religious Liberty Conference in the State House, said: “Religious liberty is one of the great blessings…

CLEVELAND, TN (05/21/2026)– Caroline Elizabeth Ray of Fort Mill, SC, graduated with the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Pre-Athletic Training from Lee University during the 196th commencement exercises on May 9, 2026. Ray was among more than 420 students who received undergraduate and graduate diplomas. Congratulations on this academic milestone! Lee University is a private, Christ-centered university located in Cleveland, Tennessee, in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The university’s reputation as a quality institution is seen in the high caliber of faculty, students, and friends who are drawn to campus. Over the past three decades, Lee has experienced…

FORT MILL, SC — The Fort Mill School District is pleased to announce the selection of Angela Struve as the next principal of Catawba Ridge High School.   Mrs. Struve has served as assistant principal at Catawba Ridge High School since July 2022. In her current role, she has overseen facility operations, the school’s 4K program, testing coordination, technology initiatives, and student mentoring efforts. Prior to joining the administrative team, she served students as an English teacher at Catawba Ridge High School and Fort Mill High School, and taught Math and English at the district’s alternative school.  A graduate of Fort…

An investigation is underway after contractors made a disturbing discovery on Oakland Avenue Tuesday morning, uncovering what appears to be a human skull in a local crawl space according to WCCB.  Contractor Phillip Shipp was working with a crew hired to clear out the crawl space of a property in the 300 block of Oakland Avenue when he found the remains hidden behind several old doors stacked against a wall. Shipp indicated that while he initially mistook the object for a plastic Halloween prop, the density and weight of the object quickly made it clear that the skull was real….

Fort Mill Town Council on Monday approved a guaranteed maximum price of $34,858,984 with Hood Construction for the town’s new operations center on Banks Road, clearing the way for a June groundbreaking on a facility that will house the public works and utilities departments. The total cost of the project, including soft costs, design, furnishings and information technology, will run closer to $38.25 million, Assistant Town Manager Eric Davis told council. The town will pay for the work with a $25 million state appropriation secured in 2023, $10 million in installment purchase revenue bonds, and $3.25 million in cash reserves…

Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) will host his 34th World Famous Annual Fish Fry on Friday, May 29, continuing a South Carolina political tradition that spans more than three decades. Clyburn originally launched the fish fry over 30 years ago as a gesture of gratitude for his campaign workers and volunteers. Since its inception, the gathering has grown into a highly anticipated, free community event celebrated for its fried whiting served on white bread, lively dancing, and strong sense of fellowship. National political columnists have frequently praised the gathering, with Roger Simon previously describing the event as “one of those…

The Town of Fort Mill plans to break ground on a $25 million Operations Center at the corner of Banks Road and Sparkling Brook Parkway, a campus covering roughly 33 acres that will consolidate public works, utilities, fleet maintenance and other municipal functions now scattered across aging downtown buildings. The project comes as Fort Mill continues to absorb rapid population growth that has stretched its existing facilities well past their original purpose. The town announced the plan in a public update and credited former state Rep. Raye Felder with helping advance the project. A response to explosive growth Fort Mill…

TEGA CAY, S.C. — Looking for the perfect blend of competition, camaraderie, and top-tier flavor? X Golf South Charlotte is bringing a premier experience to Tega Cay with its upcoming Tequila & Golf Tournament & Tasting on Thursday, May 28, 2026. Running from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the event promises an unforgettable evening built around a simple mantra: Swing, Sip, and Savor. Whether you are a seasoned golfer looking to claim tournament bragging rights or a non-golfer looking for a lively night out with great food and drinks, the evening is designed to cater to everyone. The Competition: Swing…

The South Carolina House of Representatives approved a bill to redraw the state’s congressional district lines during an early Wednesday morning session. Following extended deliberations, House members cast their votes on the newly proposed map at approximately 12:30 AM. The legislation, designated as H.5683, successfully passed the chamber and now advances to the State Senate for further consideration. The redistricting plan arrives amid a broader national push to protect political advantages ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. The newly drawn map would reshape the boundaries of South Carolina’s 6th Congressional District, which is currently the state’s only Democratic-held U.S. House…

DAHLONEGA, GA (05/18/2026)– Maya Cameron of Fort Mill made the spring 2026 Dean’s List at the University of North Georgia (UNG) for achieving at least a 3.5 grade-point average, carrying 12 or more credit hours in one semester and having no grade lower than B. Positioned in the fastest-growing region of the state, the University of North Georgia comprises five campuses united by a single mission focused on academic excellence and academic and co-curricular programs that develop students into leaders for a global society. The University of North Georgia is a University System of Georgia leadership institution and is The…

CLEVELAND, TN (05/19/2026)– Lee University congratulates Caroline Ray of Fort Mill, SC, on earning Dean’s List honors during the Spring 2026 semester. Dean’s List recognition is earned by full-time, undergraduate students with a semester grade point average between 3.7 and 4.00. Congratulations on earning this academic achievement, Caroline! Lee University is a private, Christ-centered university located in Cleveland, Tennessee, in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The university’s reputation as a quality institution is seen in the high caliber of faculty, students, and friends who are drawn to campus. Over the past three decades, Lee has experienced remarkable transformations including…

FORT MILL, S.C. — The Fort Mill School Board unveiled a proposed $272 million General Fund budget for the 2026–27 school year during its May 19 meeting, featuring a recommended 8.5-mill tax increase to support staff retention and classroom instruction. Alongside the budget proposal, the board introduced plans to lower average class sizes for grades 4–12 and discussed upcoming policy changes regarding school choice and interdistrict transfers ahead of a new South Carolina state law. The meeting also saw the approval of minor school meal price hikes, changes to high school course weightings, and the strategic allocation of a $9.5…

ROCK HILL, S.C. — The York County Soccer Hall of Fame has announced its 2026 induction class, recognizing five individuals whose accomplishments and service have significantly impacted the growth and success of soccer throughout York County and beyond. The 2026 class includes David Vance Benson II, George Cobbina, Nick Schuermann, Ellen Bright Borland and Taylor Parker McDowell. Benson is recognized for a career defined by leadership, athletic achievement and academic success at the high school and collegiate levels. At the University of South Carolina, he served as team captain and helped lead the Gamecocks to a Conference USA regular-season championship…

Attorney General Alan Wilson, local sheriffs, and members of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force gathered at the State House today to express gratitude to state lawmakers following the unanimous passage of legislation designed to significantly strengthen penalties against child predators. The newly passed bill, designated as H.4804, was originally proposed by Attorney General Wilson in 2025. The legislation was shepherded through the General Assembly by Representative Travis Moore (R-Spartanburg County) and Senator Allen Blackmon (R-Kershaw County), ultimately securing unanimous approval in both the House and the Senate. The statutory updates introduce stringent structural changes to how the…

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The York County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Patrol Unit and volunteer search and rescue team earned multiple honors during the 2026 National Association of Police Equestrian Council (NAPEC) competition and memorial events held in Washington, D.C. Detective Tom Kinnee received several top awards during the national competition. Riding Amadeus, Kinnee placed second in Expert Equitation, fifth in the Expert Obstacle competition, and third overall in the combined Expert Equitation and Obstacle category. He also won first place in the Western Class, earning the John Copeland Traveling Trophy. Kinnee later earned Reserve Champion honors in the elite ride-off competition…

Eight student-athletes from Fort Mill, Clover, and Legion Collegiate Academy earned spots on the 2026 South Carolina Athletic Coaches Association North all-star lacrosse rosters, the association announced. The SCACA selections recognize some of the state’s top high school lacrosse players, who will represent the North region in matchups against an all-star squad from the South. The annual showcase highlights athletes who stood out during the spring season and gives them a final opportunity to compete alongside peers from across the upstate. Fort Mill leads local selections Fort Mill High School placed the most local players on the combined boys and…

The ceremony also included a special recognition of America’s 250th birthday WEST COLUMBIA, S.C. – High school seniors across South Carolina who have committed to military service after graduation were honored today by the South Carolina Department of Education during the Military Honor Cord Ceremony at Fort Jackson. Why It Matters: The Military Honor Cord is worn with graduation regalia, marking both achievement and a calling to serve. It is a visible and meaningful way for the South Carolina Department of Education to honor these students and express gratitude for their commitment. What They’re Saying: “These students represent the very…

Rock Hill, SC – On Wednesday, June 17, 2026, Culp Dental and Lume Orthodontics will host the fifth annual Project Little Smiles, a community-focused dental health day dedicated to providing free care for children in the Rock Hill area. Led by Drs. Charlie Culp, Kimberely Helton, and Alex Culp, this annual event brings together a full clinical team to deliver dental services and education at no cost to families. Since its inception, Project Little Smiles has provided more than $100,000 in donated dental care, directly supporting children who may otherwise face barriers to accessing treatment. This year’s event marks an important…

A person who jumped from a boat into Lake Wylie on Monday and did not resurface was recovered by divers Tuesday morning, the York County Sheriff’s Office said. Search crews suspended their efforts Monday and resumed at first light Tuesday in the waters near Tega Cay close to the Catawba Dam. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is investigating the incident, and the York County Coroner’s Office is notifying the next of kin. Authorities have not released the name or age of the person recovered. The death comes days before the start of Memorial Day weekend, traditionally the busiest…

The Worst Moment for That Message You are at your granddaughter’s birthday party. She is about to blow out the candles. You pull out your phone, open the camera, and the screen shows a message you have seen before and dread every time: Storage Almost Full. You must free up space to take more photos. You put the phone away. You miss the moment. Both Android and iPhone devices trigger the storage almost full alert when remaining space drops too low for new apps, system updates, or media. It always seems to happen at the worst possible time. But the…

Players from Fort Mill, Clover, Nation Ford, and Catawba Ridge picked up first and second team all state honors when the South Carolina High School Lacrosse Coaches Association released its 2026 selections. The association named all state teams in both Class 5A and Class 4A for boys and girls. Among local programs in York, Lancaster, and Chester counties, four schools placed athletes on the lists, with Fort Mill High School and Clover High School leading the way. Fort Mill earns boys and girls selections Fort Mill High School landed the largest contingent of local honorees. On the Class 5A boys…

ROCK HILL — Rock Hill Schools and the University of South Carolina Lancaster will formalize a new partnership Tuesday evening that allows qualifying high school students to earn an associate degree before they graduate, the district announced. The two institutions plan to hold a ceremonial signing event at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 19, in the Special Events Room of the James Bradley Arts and Sciences building on the USC Lancaster campus. The new program, called Rock Hill Schools’ Middle College at USC Lancaster, launches this fall. Participating students can earn 60 college credit hours while still enrolled in high school…

The York County Council advanced the Fiscal Year 2027 operating and capital budget on second reading by a 4-3 vote at its May 18, 2026, regular meeting, sending the ordinance forward to third and final reading after roughly two hours of public comment and amendment debate that centered on a proposed millage increase, water and sewer rate hikes, the elimination of the budget director and CFO positions at first reading, a new special council attorney position, fire service funding, and the broader question of whether York County is growing government too fast. Public Forum drew 13 speakers, with the majority…

The York County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team is scheduled to resume recovery operations this morning for a missing person who disappeared in Lake Wylie on Monday evening. Emergency personnel from multiple agencies initially rushed to the scene at approximately 9:00 PM on Monday after reports that an individual had jumped from a boat and failed to resurface. First responders established a primary staging area at the Ebenezer Park Boat Landing to coordinate the active search. The initial water rescue operation involved several local emergency services, including: The York County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team The Newport Fire Department Additional local assisting…

The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) has filed an amicus brief in the case Southeastern Fisheries Association v. Lutnick to prevent the overfishing of South Atlantic red snapper. The legal brief challenges exempted fishing permits (EFPs) granted to Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, which the organization argues will lead to unsustainable recreational fishing. Red snapper is a highly sought-after species, but the stock remains overfished and is currently under a federal rebuilding plan. In 2025, the recreational annual catch limit was exceeded in just two days of fishing. Despite these population pressures, the 2026 EFPs authorize a 39-day fishing…

CALIFORNIA, PA (05/18/2026)– Carter Barrett, of Fort Mill, South Carolina (29707), was named to PennWest University’s spring 2026 Dean’s List. Barrett, a PennWest Clarion student who is studying Exercise Science, was among more than 2,800 outstanding PennWest students recognized for superior academic performance during the spring semester. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, degree-seeking undergraduate students must earn a minimum semester GPA of 3.4 while taking at least 12 graded credits

A rare and often deadly virus that normally spreads from rodents to humans in remote parts of South America has been at the center of an international response after a cluster of cases was identified aboard a Dutch cruise ship in the South Atlantic. Three people have died and eleven cases have been reported across multiple countries, prompting evacuations, quarantines and a Health Alert Network notice from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Public health officials in the United States and Europe have repeatedly emphasized that the risk to the general public remains extremely low. Eighteen Americans returned…

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The Biltmore Estate has opened a new evening attraction that transforms the façade of Biltmore House and the surrounding gardens into an illuminated canvas, drawing inspiration from the lantern lit garden parties hosted on the estate in the 1920s. Called Luminere, the self guided outdoor experience runs on Thursday through Sunday evenings from May 21 through October 18, 2026. Biltmore describes it as a first of its kind outdoor evening experience that uses projection mapping to layer light, imagery, and sound across the estate’s architecture and landscape as the sun sets behind the Blue Ridge Mountains. The…

The South Carolina High School Soccer Coaches Association has released its 2026 all-state teams, and York and Lancaster county players appear across multiple classifications on both the boys and girls sides. Clover and Catawba Ridge led the local contingent, with Catawba Ridge boys placing four players on the 5A Division 2 squad and Clover girls landing three selections on the 5A Division 1 team. Fort Mill girls earned three spots on the 5A Division 2 list, while Andrew Jackson posted selections across both the boys and girls 2A teams. Boys All-State Selections Class 5A Division 1 Clover Cohen Brinkley, Senior,…

INDIAN LAND, S.C. — Three firefighters were injured Sunday while battling a structure fire that prompted a Mayday call and forced crews to switch to a defensive attack, the Indian Land Fire District announced. Indian Land Fire District crews responded to the structure fire and found heavy fire conditions upon arrival. Pineville Fire Department was first on scene and initiated an interior attack. Conditions Force Evacuation As conditions rapidly deteriorated and extreme heat intensified inside the structure, crews were forced to evacuate. A Mayday was declared during the evacuation. According to the fire district, the Mayday was cleared once all…

ROCK HILL, S.C. — A Clover man is in custody and facing a murder charge after a Saturday night shooting on Mount Gallant Road that left a Rock Hill teenager dead, according to the Rock Hill Police Department. Officers responded around 11 p.m. on May 16 to a reported shooting at a residence on the 700 block of Mount Gallant Road, near Anderson Road. When they arrived, they found an 18 year old victim with a gunshot wound. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The York County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Camariya Tidwell of Rock Hill. Suspect…

I’m not a world traveler. Let me make that very clear from the beginning. In fact, in my fifty plus years I’ve only been out of the country a handful of times. This isn’t necessarily by design. It’s not as though I don’t want to travel. Up to this point, other priorities have taken precedence delaying any expensive trips until retirement.   It’s important to have this context because although I have a good understanding of world history and our place within it, my opinion of countries not called the United States is mostly limited to books, movies and daily news….

COLUMBIA — Fort Mill High School captured both the boys and girls 5A Division 2 track and field state championships Saturday at Richland Northeast High School, with the girls defending their title from a year ago and the boys claiming the first track and field state championship in program history. Both team titles came down to the final field event of the day. With every running event complete and most field events finished, athletes, coaches and fans watched the girls javelin and boys pole vault as the championships hung in the balance. A photo album with over 800 photos is…

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Mohammad Ebrahim Torki Harchegani, 40, a legal permanent resident of the United States and Iranian citizen, has been convicted by a federal jury following a three-day trial. Harchegani was found guilty on one count of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor. Evidence introduced at trial showed that on Dec. 3-4, 2024, multiple agencies with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force participated in an online chat operation targeting child sex offenders where an officer posed as a 14-year-old girl. Harchegani met the undercover officer on an online dating application and began messaging with her. Shortly thereafter, he engaged…

Columbia, S.C. – The South Carolina State Library (State Library) commemorates the 250th anniversary of the American Revolutionary War through a photography exhibit titled “Revolutionary South Carolina: A Photographic Journey by Marie and Eddie Goff”. The exhibit is a collection of photographs highlighting historic places that shaped South Carolina during the American Revolutionary War. “Revolutionary South Carolina: A Photographic Journey by Marie and Eddie Goff” will remain on display at the State Library through the end of June 30. This year, the State Library commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Revolutionary War with “Revolutionary South Carolina: A Photographic Journey by Marie and…

Several area baseball players have been recognized on the South Carolina Baseball Coaches Association’s 2026 All-State teams, with Indian Land sweeping both the 5A Division 2 Player of the Year and Pitcher of the Year honors. Indian Land senior Joseph Rutledge was named the 5A Division 2 Player of the Year, while teammate Liam Roberson took home Pitcher of the Year honors for the same classification. The pair leads a strong local showing across multiple SCHSL classifications. Local Players Selected Fort Mill, Nation Ford, and Catawba Ridge each placed one player on the 5A Division 2 All-State Team. Braden Richardson…

Christine and Karl Schaefer are opening Maisie’s Green Brae on July 4th. They’ve been building toward this moment for longer than they knew. There is a building at 2150 Gold Hill Road that has been part of Tega Cay since 1977. A lot of people have passed through it. A lot of memories live in its walls. For the last few years, it has needed more love than it was getting. Christine and Karl Schaefer are the people who showed up to give it that love. Their restaurant, Maisie’s Green Brae, will hold its grand opening on July 4th —…

Governor Henry McMaster has issued Executive Order 2026-09, officially reconvening the South Carolina General Assembly for an extra legislative session. The session began on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 11:00 AM. The Governor’s order directs lawmakers to focus on several high-priority items that remained unresolved at the end of the regular session. Key objectives for the special session include: The General Appropriations Act: Finalizing the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Congressional Redistricting: Continuing the review and consideration of South Carolina’s congressional district boundaries. Public Importance Matters: Addressing other critical issues currently facing the state. This move marks a…

COLUMBIA — The South Carolina High School League 4A state track and field championships were held Thursday night at Richland Northeast High School in Columbia, with South Pointe and Hilton Head capturing the boys and girls team titles, respectively. York County schools had a strong showing at the meet, with York and South Pointe both finishing in the top five of their respective team standings and producing several individual champions. South Pointe South Pointe claimed the boys team title with 61.5 points, edging May River by half a point in one of the closest team races of the night. The…

COLUMBIA — The South Carolina High School League 5A Division I state track and field championships were held Thursday night at Spring Valley High School in Columbia, with Blythewood and Wando capturing the girls and boys team titles, respectively. Among the area schools, Clover’s distance runners and Rock Hill’s throwing specialists turned in some of the meet’s most memorable performances. Clover Clover senior Ella Nighbor delivered the most dominant individual performance of any York or Lancaster County athlete at the meet, sweeping the girls distance events. Nighbor won the 1600 meters in 4:56.28 and followed that with a victory in…

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) has introduced the Coast Guard Personnel Equipment Act, which would require all U.S. Coast Guard uniforms to be produced within the United States. Under existing law, every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces—with the exception of the Coast Guard—is prohibited from purchasing fabrics, fibers, yarns, and clothing produced in foreign countries. Senator Graham’s legislation seeks to close this gap by extending these domestic sourcing requirements to the Coast Guard. The move ensures that no branch of the military relies on foreign nations for essential personal equipment. Supporters of the bill argue that an over-reliance…

Lindsay Rene Byrd, 41, of Fort Mill, was arrested earlier this week on several felony charges involving the sexual exploitation of minors. The arrest was announced by South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson. The arrest followed an investigation led by the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and the York County Sheriff’s Office. The Attorney General’s Office, also a member of the state’s Task Force, provided assistance during the inquiry. The investigation began after authorities received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). Investigators allege that Byrd engaged in criminal sexual conduct with…

FORT MILL, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health has identified a tuberculosis exposure at Pleasant Knoll Middle School in Fort Mill and is working with school officials to determine who may need to be tested, the agency announced Wednesday. DPH said it is coordinating with school leaders to identify individuals who may have been exposed to the tuberculosis germ and to determine which of them require testing. The agency did not publicly identify the individual with tuberculosis, the date of possible exposure, or whether the case involves a student or staff member. In an email from the…

Lancaster, S.C. — Lancaster County Council has unanimously selected Brian N. Tucker, IOM to serve as the County’s next County Administrator. Mr. Tucker will begin his duties on July 1, 2026. “I am excited and humbled to serve as the next County Administrator of Lancaster County. Coming home to serve my family and friends is overwhelmingly surreal.” Commented Mr. Tucker, “I have watched the growth and evolution of Lancaster County over the last number of years. Lancaster County is made up of so many distinct communities. Maintaining the warmth and character of these communities while channeling the unprecedented growth is…

The Olde English District Tourism Commission (OED) is proud to announce that Jenn Scuteri, Welcome Center Information Specialist at the Revolutionary War Visitors Center, has been distinguished as the 2026 Olde English District Hospitality Employee of the Year (HEY). This prestigious regional honor was presented on May 4, 2026, celebrating her unwavering commitment to excellence in visitor services and community engagement. The Hospitality Employee of the Year (HEY) Award is a prestigious annual honor, presented through a collaborative partnership between the South Carolina Association of Tourism Regions (SCATR) and the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SCPRT). Regional winners from…

COLUMBIA — The South Carolina Supreme Court on Wednesday unanimously overturned Alex Murdaugh’s double murder convictions and life sentence, ordering a new trial in the June 2021 killings of his wife and younger son after finding that the Colleton County clerk of court tampered with the jury. In a 5 to 0 decision, the justices ruled that former Clerk of Court Mary Rebecca “Becky” Hill exercised improper external influences on the jury during the 2023 trial, denying Murdaugh his constitutional right to a fair trial by an impartial jury. “Hill placed her fingers on the scales of justice, thereby denying…

Johnathan Nathaniel Allen, 27, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, has pleaded guilty in federal court to the production of child sexual abuse material. Allen, who had served as a county sheriff’s deputy since 2021, targeted a 13-year-old girl located in York County South Carolina. In September 2024, Allen used Reddit and the TextMe platform to contact the minor. Posing as a 14-year-old boy named “Josh,” Allen pressured the victim to produce sexually explicit content. Evidence revealed that Allen initiated contact through a forum referencing teenagers before moving the conversation to text messages using a virtual phone number. During their interactions, Allen instructed…

SPARTANBURG, SC — Spartanburg Methodist College has recognized eight students from York, Lancaster, and Chester counties on its Spring 2026 Dean’s List. Dr. Curt Laird, SMC Provost and Executive Vice President, announced the students who earned inclusion on the Dean’s List for grades earned during the spring 2026 academic semester. Dean’s List students have achieved a grade point average of 3.5 or higher. Local students named to the list include: Emily Bearse of Rock Hill Tanner Cowart of York Julia Guzman of York Parker Harrigan of Fort Mill Grace McCullough of Chester Ronald Mendez of Rock Hill Kenneth Vickery of…

South Carolina forest landowners and farmers can now apply for financial assistance following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene in September 2024. The South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA) began accepting applications for the SC Disaster Relief Block Grant on May 12. The program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, aims to offset losses involving infrastructure, markets, and timber. The South Carolina Forestry Commission (SCFC) is specifically overseeing the timber loss portion of the grant. To qualify for timber assistance, landowners must meet several criteria: Property must be located within an eligible county (York and Lancaster counties are both…

State lawmakers are scheduled to discuss the Senator Clementa C. Pinckney Hate Crimes Act, a bill that would establish enhanced penalties for crimes where victims are targeted based on specific personal characteristics. The proposal is set for review by a House subcommittee this morning. South Carolina is currently one of only two states in the country without a state-level hate crimes law. If passed, the legislation would allow for increased sentencing if prosecutors prove a victim was intentionally selected due to factors such as: Race or religion. Gender or sexual orientation. National origin or disability. Enhanced punishments would apply to…

MANCHESTER, NH — Southern New Hampshire University has announced its Spring 2026 President’s List, recognizing dozens of students from York, Lancaster, and Chester counties for their academic achievement. Full time undergraduate students who earn a minimum grade point average of 3.700 or higher during the reporting term qualify for the President’s List. Full time status is achieved by completing 12 credits over a 16 week term or paired 8 week terms. The spring terms run from January to May. SNHU is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution serving more than 200,000 learners worldwide. The university offers approximately 200 undergraduate, graduate, and…

ROME, GA (05/13/2026)– Caden Wolf of Fort Mill, SC, was named to the Spring 2026 Dean’s List at Berry College. The Dean’s List honors students who posted an academic average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale while carrying a class load of at least 12 hours during the semester. Nationally recognized for academic excellence and as an outstanding educational value, Berry is an independent, coeducational, comprehensive liberal arts college of approximately 2,200 students. For more than a century, the college has offered an exceptional education that balances intellectual exploration, practical learning, and character development. Its 27,000-acre campus is…

FORT MILL, SC — The York County Reaganites will host a free Conservative Forum on Thursday, May 21, bringing together a slate of Republican candidates running in the June 9 South Carolina primary. The event will be held at Antioch International Church, 453 Glynwood Forest Drive, Fort Mill. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the forum runs from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Organizers have billed the evening as an opportunity for voters in York County and the surrounding region to hear directly from conservative candidates seeking statewide, federal, and local office. The forum lineup spans races at the top of…

Saint Philip Neri Catholic Church will host its 29th Annual Italian Festival from Thursday, May 14 through Saturday, May 16 at the church campus on Munn Road East, with three days of food, live entertainment, contests and family activities open to the community. The festival, organized by parishioners and powered by more than 600 volunteers, has grown into one of the area’s largest annual community gatherings. Pastor Father Fabio Refosco, C.O., described it as a celebration of faith, heritage and community, inviting families and friends to “gather to cook, eat, drink, dance, sing and show everyone how to be an…

A York County HVAC contractor has filed suit against Silfab Solar in the Court of Common Pleas, alleging the company failed to pay for diagnostic, repair, and materials work performed at its Fort Mill facility earlier this year. Airtek of York County, Inc. filed the complaint on May 11, naming Silfab Solar Cells SC, Inc. and Silfab Solar PV SC, Inc. as defendants. The Rock Hill based contractor is seeking $31,846.68 in damages, plus prejudgment and postjudgment interest, recoverable costs, and attorney’s fees. According to the complaint, Airtek and Silfab entered into an agreement for HVAC and related diagnostic, repair,…

COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina senators on Tuesday rejected a measure that would have given lawmakers the option to return to the State House after the close of the legislative session to take up Congressional redistricting. At issue was the sine die resolution, which sets the formal end of the legislative session on May 14. House members had inserted language into the resolution permitting the General Assembly to reconvene in Columbia after adjournment to address redistricting. The resolution fell short of threshold needed for passage in the Senate. With that vote, a special session beyond Thursday can now only be…

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has charged three Chester County residents in connection with a May 3 drive by shooting on Pinckney Street in Chester that killed a 16 year old and wounded two other teenagers. John David Estes, 21, and Quentin Javor Craig Jr., 24, are each charged with Murder and two counts of Attempted Murder. Kenyetta Adrryll Sims, 53, is charged with Accessory After the Fact to Murder. The shooting occurred at approximately 8:18 p.m. on May 3, 2026, on Pinckney Street in Chester. According to arrest warrants filed by SLED Special Agent Paul B. Knight, 16…

ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA – Seven Winthrop University seniors who finished their college careers with perfect 4.0 grade point averages earned the President’s Award for Academic Excellence at the May 9 Commencement ceremonies. In the morning ceremony at Winthrop Coliseum, Morgan Baxter, Lila Dailey, Hunter Garrison, Ciaran Murphy, Betsy Ryerson and Olivia Whitfield were recognized. The seniors earned degrees either from the College of Visual and Performing Arts or the College of Arts and Sciences. Emily Nycole Ellis received accolades in the afternoon ceremony held for the College of Business and Technology and the Richard W. Riley College of Education,…

Southern New Hampshire University has named several students from York and Lancaster counties to its Spring 2026 Dean’s List, the university announced May 12. The Dean’s List recognizes full-time undergraduate students who earned a grade point average between 3.500 and 3.699 during the reporting term. Full-time status requires 12 credits over a 16 week term or paired 8 week terms. The spring terms run from January through May. Students named to the list from the Tega Cay Sun coverage area include: Fort Mill Erin Cordone Rock Hill Mariah Jenkins Kyra Martin Adrian Trail Jacob Herring Dacoiya Burton Destiny Walker Lancaster…

Susan Renne Franklin, age 58, of Tega Cay, SC passed away peacefully on Friday, May 8, 2026, at home.  The family is hosting a celebration of life that will be announced at a later date. Born in Atlanta, GA, she was a daughter of the late Bobby Orville Cullen Sr. and Linda K. Cullen. She was preceded in death by her brother, Bobby Orville Cullen Jr. She was a graduate of Fort Mill High School class of 1986, and she was very involved with the school band during her high school years. She enjoyed painting, drawing, and her British TV…

A South Carolina bill proposing a statewide ban on kratom is unlikely to pass this year as senators seek more data on the controversial substance. The legislation, which previously cleared the House, sought to classify kratom as a Schedule I controlled substance, placing it alongside drugs like heroin and LSD. Proponents of the ban, including law enforcement and some medical professionals, argue the products pose public health risks. Experts at the Medical University of South Carolina have linked synthetic versions of the substance to deaths and neonatal complications similar to opioid addiction. Furthermore, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division reports…

Lancaster County Council, Regular Meeting — Monday, May 11, 2026 A packed council chamber and a four-and-a-half-hour meeting produced one of the more consequential nights of the spring for Lancaster County Council, with members denying a conditional use permit for an Islamic place of assembly on Harrisburg Road, deferring a contested 71-acre commercial rezoning at Charlotte Highway and Laurel Hill Road by another 60 days, hearing an emotional joint presentation from the Coroner’s Office and EMS about a real-world search-and-rescue mission that followed an inter-agency training exercise by just 11 days, and after their second executive session of the week…

Congressional candidate Mallory Dittmer will host a Democracy For All Town Hall tonight at the Freedom Center in Rock Hill, SC to call attention to the detrimental impact of the proposed Congressional redistricting South Carolina voters and candidates. “It is unconscionable to subject the people of South Carolina to the upheaval and chaos of redistricting mere weeks out from primary elections,” DIttmer said. “This plan, aimed entirely at diluting the strength of Democratic voters in an already heavily gerrymandered state, seeks to further harm minority voters, divide communities that deserve representation, and cause widespread confusion and apathy across the state….

S.C. Rep. Brandon Guffey received the 2026 Sammy Berman Chapman Memorial Award at the Organization for Social Media Safety’s Annual Social Media Safety Gala on April 29 in Los Angeles, earning national recognition for his years of advocacy on behalf of children’s online safety. The award was presented at the Skirball Cultural Center, where Guffey shared the stage with prominent advocates including Dr. Laura Berman and Tanya Rad before a room of fellow child safety activists. Guffey’s advocacy was born from devastating personal loss. His 17 year old son, Gavin, died after falling victim to a sextortion predator. Rather than…

Seven students from across York and Lancaster counties were recognized for academic achievement at Bob Jones University for the spring 2026 semester, with five named to the President’s List and two named to the Dean’s List. The Greenville, South Carolina university announced the honors on May 11, recognizing approximately 580 students on the President’s List and roughly 600 students on the Dean’s List campus wide. President’s List Honorees The President’s List recognizes students who earn a 3.75 or higher grade point average for the semester. Sydney Ballard, a sophomore Middle School Education major from Edgemoor, was named to the President’s…

The Most Expensive Season in Football History Sunday afternoons used to be simple. You turned on the television, flipped to CBS or NBC, and watched football. Maybe you had cable for ESPN’s Monday night games. That was it. Those days are gone, and the 2026-27 NFL season is about to make that clearer than ever. A new Fox News poll found that six in ten sports fans say they have skipped watching a game at least a few times in the past year because it was too expensive. In addition, 72% of fans said major sporting events should be required…

The Town of Fort Mill invites the community to gather in remembrance on Monday, May 25, 2026, for its annual Memorial Day Ceremony. The event will take place at the historic Unity Cemetery, located at 303 Tom Hall Street, beginning promptly at 10 a.m. The ceremony is designed to pay tribute to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. Mayor Guynn Savage will open the proceedings with a welcome and special remarks, followed by a poignant reading of the names of the fallen by members of the Fort Mill Town Council. The…

A significant healthcare collection bill is moving through the South Carolina legislature, poised to establish new transparency requirements for patient billing and restrict aggressive medical debt collection. The proposed law aims to empower patients with clearer information regarding their financial obligations. Beginning January 1, 2027, a wide range of “healthcare facilities”—including acute care hospitals, psychiatric centers, and hospice facilities—must provide patients with electronic itemized bills. These documents must use plain-language descriptions of services and clearly state the amount owed. Facilities are also required to notify patients of their right to receive these bills, even if the patient initially waives the…

FORT MILL, SC — Springfield Elementary School has been recognized as a 2026 National Gold Star School by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), a national honor celebrating schools that demonstrate excellence in leadership, student success, and school culture. The National Gold Star School program recognizes schools that exemplify NAESP’s Three Pillars of the Principalship: • Established Culture: Shared values, family engagement, and well-being. • Empowered People: Collaborative teaching, distributed leadership, and holistic support. • Optimal Systems: Effective use of talent and resources, district support, and strategic focus. Schools selected for the recognition were evaluated through a competitive…

In observance of National Speech-Language-Hearing Month this May, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson is calling on law enforcement officers, military members, and the general public to prioritize their auditory health. With nearly 50 million Americans—including approximately 15% of South Carolinians—experiencing some degree of hearing loss, Wilson emphasized the importance of regular screenings and the dangers of fraudulent products. As a Colonel in the National Guard, Wilson highlighted the specific risks faced by those in high-noise environments, such as soldiers and police officers. He noted that proactive protection and 30-minute hearing tests are essential for maintaining the readiness and well-being…

The Humane Society of York County is featuring two adoptable animals this week, both ready to find permanent homes with local families. Cinnamon, The Spicy Sweetheart Cinnamon is a roughly one year old female cat named for her warm, rich coat color. She arrived at the shelter as a stray, with an ear tag suggesting she may have previously been part of a trap, neuter, return program before finding her way to the rescue. After about 13 weeks in the shelter’s care, staff describe her as loving, playful, and laid back, with just enough spice to keep things interesting. Cinnamon…

The Tega Cay Men’s Golf Association staged its Red Tee Special tournament on Saturday, with golfers playing a two man shamble from the forward tees in a format that drew strong reviews from participants and organizers alike. Teams were set through a random draw pairing one A player with one B player based on handicap. The shamble format required each golfer to use at least two of his own drives per nine holes, adding a layer of strategy to a setup that already favored aggressive play from the red tees. The format earned high marks from the Association, with organizers…

While the celebration of mothers can be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman festivals honoring mother goddesses, the modern American holiday was born from the tireless efforts of Anna Jarvis in the early 20th century. Following the death of her own mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, in 1905, Anna conceived of Mother’s Day as a way of honoring the sacrifices mothers made for their children. Ann Reeves Jarvis had been a peace activist who cared for wounded soldiers on both sides of the American Civil War and created “Mothers’ Day Work Clubs” to address public health issues. Seeking to continue…

There’s something special about a graduating senior. Behind every cap and gown is a story—years of early mornings, late nights, hard work, growth, resilience, friendship, and dreams for what comes next. This spring, our community has the opportunity to come together and celebrate those stories in one unforgettable event: the 2026 Tega Cay Senior Parade. This parade is more than a procession of decorated cars—it’s a community-wide moment to honor the incredible young people who have grown up in our neighborhoods, filled our schools, played on our fields, worked in our local businesses, and made Tega Cay such a vibrant…

Local Schools Stack Qualifiers at 5A Division 2 Mid State Meet Athletes from Catawba Ridge, Fort Mill, Indian Land, Nation Ford and Northwestern collected dozens of automatic state berths Friday at the SCHSL 5A Division 2 Mid State track and field meet, hosted by Northwestern at Winthrop University in Rock Hill. The top three finishers in each event qualified automatically for next Saturday’s SCHSL 5A Division 2 state championship at Richland Northeast High School in Columbia. With Friday’s meet serving as the third and final upper state qualifier, the next seven fastest times in each running event across the three…

My youngest daughter and I were having a conversation about Mr. Rogers earlier this week. For those of you who are my age or older, you’d remember Mister Rogers Neighborhood as a childhood staple. It’s where many of us gained a broader understanding of complex feelings like love and sadness or learned basic skills such as tying our shoes or the correct way to wash our hands.  In the mornings when I wake up my daughter, I start her day with a puppet show. We have a series of main characters that have been featured over the years, with several…

The Tega Cay Sun returned to the Quail Hollow Club yesterday, continuing its on-the-ground coverage of the 2026 Truist Championship. We camped out on the 8th hole and were able to get up close to several of the world’s elite golfers, including Rory McIlroy, Justin Rose, Matt Fitzpatrick, Tommy Fleetwood, and Patrick Cantlay. Amidst the action of this Signature Event, we even ran into and chatted with Tega Cay’s own Dawn Klena.           Patrick Cantlay walks off the 8th hole Tega Cay’s Dawn Klena working the 8th hole at the Truist Championship The Truist Championship is one…

Due to extended dry weather and below-average rainfall, York County Utilities has entered Stage 2 of its water conservation plan and is implementing mandatory water use restrictions. York County received about half of the average rain total so far in 2026. On May 01, 2026, the Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group (CW-DMAG) announced that the Catawba-Wateree River Basin has entered Stage 2 of the Low Inflow Protocol (LIP) due to extremely dry conditions that have persisted for months. Water restrictions are necessary as drought conditions continue, to protect our water system and ensure reliable service for essential needs. The Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group…

Redistricting push would delay congressional primaries by 2 months By:Seanna Adcox and Jessica Holdman, SC Daily Gazette  House Judiciary Chairman Weston Newton, R-Bluffton, right, points to a proposed new map of the state’s congressional voting lines while speaking with Rep. John King, D-Rock Hill, left, on the House floor Thursday, May 7, 2026. (Photo by Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette) COLUMBIA — A proposed overhaul of South Carolina’s voting lines for Congress would draw U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn out of the district he’s represented for 34 years. It could also make ruby red districts up and down the ballot suddenly in play for…

The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education announced the approval of 15 new academic programs at institutions across the state today. The new programs help strengthen South Carolina’s talent pipeline in high-demand fields including education, business, healthcare, communications, counseling, hospitality, law, and STEM disciplines. Key trends across the new programs include: A significant focus on preparing teachers and school leaders across multiple disciplines, including early childhood, English, math, science, and social studies. Multiple programs tie directly to key sectors of South Carolina’s economy such as tourism and hospitality, finance, and accounting. This reflects alignment between academic offerings and workforce demand…

South Carolina State University has finalized its keynote lineup for the Spring 2026 commencement ceremony, selecting two prominent figures from within the university community to address the graduating class. The announcement comes in the wake of a high-profile dispute involving Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, whose initial invitation to speak was rescinded by President Alexander Conyers. The university’s decision to pivot follows intense student protests regarding the Lieutenant Governor’s political platform. Critics argued her stances were inconsistent with the mission of the historically Black university, leading the administration to withdraw the invitation citing safety concerns and a desire to maintain the…

Officials from Piedmont Medical Center, the Town of Fort Mill, and the York County Chamber of Commerce gathered Thursday morning to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of a new Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The facility is scheduled to officially open to patients on May 12. The expansion marks a significant milestone for healthcare in York County, allowing the hospital to provide advanced support for premature infants and those born with congenital anomalies or respiratory challenges. Previously, families requiring this level of specialized intervention often had to seek care outside the community, resulting in difficult separations during critical periods. The…

ROCK HILL, S.C. — The Miracle League has selected Rock Hill, South Carolina as the host city for the 2027 Miracle League All-Star Game, an annual event that brings together standout players from Miracle League programs across the United States and nearby countries for a big-league-style experience. The 2027 All-Star Game will be held at Miracle Park during the weekend of September 24–26, 2027. The event will welcome athletes, families and supporters from across the country for a memorable celebration of inclusion, community and the joy of the game. In addition to the All-Star Game, the weekend will feature a…

South Carolina is set to lead the nation in education reform following the General Assembly’s final approval of House Bill 5073. The legislation, which now awaits Governor Henry McMaster’s signature, prohibits K-12 public schools and districts from implementing “grade-floor” policies. These mandates previously prevented teachers from assigning grades lower than a specific minimum, regardless of a student’s actual performance or effort. The move follows a 2025 report revealing that at least 18 school districts in the state utilized minimum grading practices. Policy advocates argued these rules created a deceptive picture of student achievement and discouraged academic rigor. By removing these…

Mallory Dittmer, Democratic Congressional candidate for South Carolina’s 5th District, responded today to the resolution approved by the South Carolina House of Representatives that opens the door to mid-census redistricting.  The vote, which fell along party lines, follows deliberate pressure from the White House to redraw maps for Republican gain ahead of the 2026 midterms. “It is unconscionable to subject the people of South Carolina to the upheaval and chaos of redistricting mere weeks out from primary elections,” Dittmer said. “This plan, aimed entirely at diluting the strength of Democratic voters in an already heavily gerrymandered state, seeks to further…

Athletes spend years training their bodies to perform at the highest level. Their routines include strength work, conditioning, balanced nutrition, and recovery strategies that protect their health and extend their careers. One tool many top competitors rely on is chiropractic care. Chiropractic focuses on maintaining proper alignment of the spine and musculoskeletal system so the body can function efficiently and heal naturally. For athletes, that means less pain, better flexibility, faster recovery, and a lower risk of injury. But the same benefits that help professionals stay at the top of their game also apply to anyone who wants to stay…

Council Authorizes Contract Negotiations With County Administrator Candidate, Passes Poll Worker Ordinance 6–1, and Pushes Back Hard on Administrator’s $156.4M FY27 Recommended Budget and Proposed 7-Mill Operating Increase The Lancaster County Council convened a special meeting on May 6, 2026 at 12:00 PM in the County Council Chambers at the County Administration Building in Lancaster. After the call to order, invocation by Council Member Charlene McGriff, and unanimous approval of the agenda, Council went into executive session for approximately 49 minutes to discuss a personnel matter regarding County Administrator interviews, with representatives of the search firm Find Great People in…

A Cyberattack Inside the Classroom It started quietly on April 30, 2026, when teachers and students across the country noticed that tools connected to their school’s learning platform were not working. By the next day, the reason became clear. Canvas, the company behind the most widely used learning management system in the country, confirmed that a criminal hacker group had broken in and stolen an enormous amount of data. Stop what you are doing. If your child does homework through Canvas, this one is for you. And tell every parent you know. For students, parents, teachers, and staff at several…

When most high school seniors picture their final year, they think about football games, prom photos, college applications, and making memories with friends before graduation. For Fort Mill High senior Chase Barrington-Hughes, those moments mattered too — but he also set his sights on something much bigger than himself. At the beginning of his senior year, Chase wrote down a list of goals he hoped to accomplish before graduation. It was ambitious by any standard. He wanted to continue serving on Student Council to help lead school spirit and events. He traded his free period for AP Statistics because he…

Home Is a Place Worth Fighting For By Inessa Moss • Tega Cay Resident The night our house caught fire, my first thought wasn’t about the structure. It was about getting everyone out. Once we were standing on the street, safe, the smoke still rising behind us, I looked at my husband Anthony and said — quietly, so the kids wouldn’t hear — “We’re going to get it back.” I believed it when I said it. I still believe it now. But I had no idea what “getting it back” would actually require. The fire happened in October 2025. It…

South Carolina legislators are moving forward with a new bill designed to establish safety guardrails around the use of artificial intelligence chatbots, particularly for young users. The proposal stems from growing concerns regarding the emotional impact and potential risks these platforms pose to developing children, including the possibility of creating unhealthy dependencies or exposing minors to inappropriate content. The proposed legislation introduces several strict requirements for AI companies operating within the state: Age Verification: Companies would be required to verify the age of all users. Parental Consent: Minors would need explicit parental permission to access chatbot services. Limited Access Mode:…

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,…