Friday, July 11 2025

Lancaster High School Welcomes New Principal, Mr. Casimir Bundrick; Community Invited to Meet & Greet

Tom Hyslip

Lancaster High School is excited to announce Mr. Casimir Bundrick as its new principal. Mr. Bundrick joins the Bruins family with a vision for the school community that he is eager to share with students, parents, and staff. To introduce Mr. Bundrick and provide an opportunity for the community to get acquainted with him, Lancaster […]

City of Lancaster Holds July 8 Work Session Focused on Infrastructure Grants, Community Needs, and Zoning Changes

Tom Hyslip

LANCASTER — The Lancaster City Council held a work session on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, to review upcoming grant opportunities, assess community needs, and consider rezoning proposals for housing development. The meeting covered a broad array of topics, with an emphasis on infrastructure, housing, and downtown development. Key Items Discussed Detailed Summary Grant Opportunities and […]

METRO DINER OPENS FIRST LOCATION IN INDIAN LAND, S.C.

Tom Hyslip

Restaurant brand brings bold takes on homestyle cooking to one of The Carolinas’ fastest-growing suburban communities INDIAN LAND, S.C., July 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Metro Diner, the family-friendly restaurant famed for modern takes on classic American comfort food, has opened its first location in the Indian Land/Fort Mill area. Located at 2077 Parkway Drive, Suite 101 in the CrossRidge […]

June 2025 Restaurant Inspections in Lancaster County: 4 Receive C Ratings, 12 Earn B Grades

Tom Hyslip

The South Carolina Department of Agriculture conducted 88 food establishment inspections in Lancaster County during June 2025. While most restaurants earned an “A” grade, 16 received lower scores, including four with “C” ratings and 12 with “B” grades. C-Rated Establishments: B-Rated Establishments: Twelve restaurants in Lancaster County received “B” grades during routine inspections. These included: […]

SC Forestry Faces Market Challenges as Mill Closures Reshape Industry

Patrick Byrne

South Carolina’s forestry industry, a significant economic driver and top job provider for the state, is currently navigating substantial challenges. Recent paper mill closures have severely impacted markets for pulpwood, making timber cultivation economically difficult for landowners. The history of paper mills in South Carolina dates back to the early 19th century, with initial operations […]

Lancaster County Schools Install Vape Detectors in Effort to Combat Rising Teen Vaping

Tom Hyslip

The Lancaster County School District is taking proactive measures to combat the growing issue of teen vaping by installing vape detectors in its middle and high schools. This initiative aims to curb e-cigarette use among students, a problem that has become increasingly prevalent, with nearly 6% of middle and high school students nationwide reporting e-cigarette […]

Major Methamphetamine Bust Caps Year-Long Investigation in Lancaster County

Tom Hyslip

LANCASTER, SC – A year-long investigation by the Lancaster County Multijurisdictional Narcotics Task Force culminated yesterday, Wednesday, June 25, 2025, with the arrest of Lonnie Rojohn Crawford, Jr., 27, and the seizure of over three pounds of suspected methamphetamine, along with other illicit drugs and firearms.1 The extensive investigation began last year, during which investigators […]

Lancaster City Council Approves $74.7M Budget with Tax Hikes, New Fees, and Employee Pay Increases

Tom Hyslip

LANCASTER, S.C. – The Lancaster City Council held its regular meeting on June 24, beginning with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. A public hearing for the proposed 2025-26 fiscal year budget was held; no residents signed up to speak. The meeting included several community acknowledgments: Minutes from the June 10 work session and […]

Lancaster County Council Approves $160.2 Million Budget, Finalizes Development and Zoning Changes

Tom Hyslip

At its regular meeting on June 23, 2025, the Lancaster County Council approved the fiscal year 2025–26 budget and finalized several key ordinances. The \$160.2 million budget passed unanimously and includes a 5% pay raise for all employees, 42 new positions, and a millage rollback, resulting in no increase to the general fund rate. Council […]

Lancaster City Council Advances Budget with Pay Raises, Utility Fee Increases, and Capital Projects

Tom Hyslip

At their June?17 session, the Lancaster City Council discussed and approved several key items including the results of a comprehensive salary classification study, updates to the 2025–26 fiscal budget, projected utility and service fee increases, and funding allocations aligned with strategic city goals. The meeting concluded with the introduction of a second-reading motion for the […]

Two Arrested in Lancaster Drug Investigation Following Search Warrant Execution

Tom Hyslip

LANCASTER, SC – Two people were arrested Tuesday, June 17, 2025, following the execution of a search warrant on Country Club Drive by the Lancaster County Multijurisdictional Narcotics Task Force, assisted by the Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team and Street Crimes Unit. The investigation began earlier this month when undercover investigators conducted two controlled purchases of […]

Heath Springs Man Arrested on 33 Warrants for Property, Firearms and Drug Offenses

Tom Hyslip

On Thursday, June 12, 2025, 31?year?old Christopher Ray Chappell of Heath Springs was arrested as he exited a local business, after being charged on 33 outstanding warrants related to property crimes, firearms and drugs. Chappell had been under investigation by the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office Property Crimes Unit following a April 23 search warrant executed […]

UPDATE: Man Fatally Shot at Indian Land Apartment Complex Identified

Tom Hyslip

INDIAN LAND, SC – The Lancaster County Coroner has identified the victim found shot to death Thursday morning at the Parkstone at Indian Land apartments as 26-year-old Justin Pullom. He was discovered in the parking lot with a gunshot wound.

Shooting Death Under Investigation at Indian Land Apartment Complex

Tom Hyslip

Indian Land, S.C. — The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office and the Lancaster County Multijurisdictional Violent Crime Task Force are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred early Thursday morning at the Parkstone at Indian Land apartment complex. At approximately 3:30 a.m. on June 12, 2025, Lancaster County Public Safety Communications received multiple reports of gunfire in […]

Lancaster County Council Addresses Growth Amidst Bond Implementation and Key Policy Debates

Tom Hyslip

On June 9, 2025, the Lancaster County Council convened for a meeting that included citizen comments, special presentations, and several ordinance readings and votes, highlighting key issues impacting the county’s growth, public services, and future development. Overview of Key Events: The meeting began with the usual call to order, quorum verification, and public notice confirmation, […]

WRHI Named Finalist For State Radio Station Of The Year For 17th Time in Last 20 Years

Chris Miller

WRHI is a finalist for South Carolina Statewide Radio Station of The Year for a record extending 17th time in the last 20 years.  WRHI is pitted against WTCB out of Columbia as the two Station of the Year finalists. In addition, OTS Media Group is one of two finalists for 12 other Statewide Awards. […]

Haile Gold Mine: Unearthing Lancaster County’s Golden Past and Future

Tom Hyslip

The Haile Gold Mine, nestled in Lancaster County, South Carolina, represents a fascinating intersection of deep historical roots, modern mining innovation, and significant economic impact. With a legacy stretching back nearly two centuries, it stands today as the only operational gold mine east of the Mississippi River, continually redefining its role in the state’s prosperity […]

Lancaster City Council Addresses Budget, Roadways, and Community Initiatives in May 27th Meeting

Tom Hyslip

Lancaster City Council convened on May 27, 2025, to tackle a range of municipal matters, including budget adjustments, approval of community grants, and decisions on city assets. The meeting, presided over by Mayor Alston DeVenny, saw unanimous approval on most agenda items, highlighting a collaborative approach among council members. Detailed Summary of Agenda Items and […]

Lancaster County Council Approves Key Budget Measures and Development Agreements

Tom Hyslip

On May 27, 2025, the Lancaster County Council convened for a meeting that included several key approvals and discussions on important county matters, such as budget adjustments, zoning amendments, and board appointments. The meeting began with a call to order by Chairman Brian Carnes, followed by a welcome, recognition, and the Pledge of Allegiance and […]

Man Charged with Murder, Other Offenses in Lancaster County

Patrick Byrne

Roger Ledell Baskins, 52, of Lancaster and Charlotte, was arrested Wednesday, May 21, 2025, and faces charges of murder and multiple other offenses following two separate incidents: a family dispute and the fatal shooting of a business owner. Deputies responded to a family disturbance on Memorial Park Road, where Baskins had been staying. During an […]

Lancaster County’s J&E Homestead Among 13 South Carolina Agribusinesses Awarded State Funding

Tom Hyslip

J&E Homestead, a fiber mill and farm based in Lancaster County, has been named one of 13 recipients of funding through the South Carolina Department of Agriculture’s Agribusiness Center for Research and Entrepreneurship (ACRE). The farm will use the awarded funds to procure new spinning equipment, significantly enhancing its ability to serve fiber clients throughout […]

Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program Returns June 1, Providing Fresh Produce Access to SC Seniors

Patrick Byrne

The South Carolina Department of Social Services (SC DSS) has announced the return of the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) for 2025, a USDA grant initiative designed to connect eligible seniors with fresh, nutritious, unprocessed fruits and vegetables from local farmers’ markets. The program aims to increase awareness and utilization of community markets across […]

Six Individuals Arrested in Random Murder of Woman on Riverside Road in Lancaster

Tom Hyslip

Lancaster County, S.C. – Six individuals, including three juveniles, have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a Lancaster woman found dead in her car on Riverside Road late Friday night, May 2. According to the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded just before midnight to the 3000 block of Riverside Road and […]

Six Arrested in Lancaster County Drug Bust, Including Father-Daughter Duo

Tom Hyslip

Six individuals were arrested Tuesday, May 6, after a narcotics search warrant was executed at a residence on Crestfield Drive in Lancaster, just a short distance from the University of South Carolina–Lancaster campus. The operation was led by the Lancaster County Multijurisdictional Narcotics Task Force, with assistance from the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team […]

Lancaster County Administrator Presents FY26 Budget at Special Meeting

Tom Hyslip

The Lancaster County Council held a special meeting on May 7, 2025, primarily to receive the County Administrator’s recommended budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. The proposed budget totals $159.7 million across all county funds, including $102.4 million for the General Fund. It maintains a no-increase operating millage while funding 28 new positions, a 5% salary […]

Oldcastle APG Expanding Operations in Lancaster County, Creating 30 Jobs

Patrick Byrne

Building materials manufacturer Oldcastle APG, a CRH company, is expanding its presence in South Carolina with a new facility in Lancaster County, bringing 30 new jobs to the region. Oldcastle APG, a major manufacturer in the architectural products industry, offers a wide array of outdoor brands and solutions for both residential and commercial spaces. The […]

Oldcastle APG to Open $20 Million Facility in Lancaster County, Creating 30 Jobs

Tom Hyslip

LANCASTER, S.C. — Oldcastle APG, a leading manufacturer of building materials and a subsidiary of CRH, announced plans to expand its operations into Lancaster County with a new $20 million facility. The project will create 30 new jobs and marks a significant investment in South Carolina’s manufacturing sector. The new plant, located at 1683 Rock […]

12-Year-Old Pleads Guilty to Arson in Lancaster Walmart Fire

Tom Hyslip

LANCASTER, S.C. — A 12-year-old boy has pleaded guilty to second-degree arson after setting a fire inside the Walmart on the Highway 9 Bypass in Lancaster on Sunday, May 4. The fire began around 4:30 p.m. in the store’s crafts and sewing section, prompting an immediate evacuation. Firefighters arrived within minutes and quickly extinguished the […]

Courtney Catledge Appointed Campus Dean of USC Lancaster

Tom Hyslip

Lancaster, S.C. – Dr. Courtney Catledge has been named the new campus dean of the University of South Carolina Lancaster, effective May 12, 2025. The announcement was made on May 5 by Dr. Susan A. Elkins, chancellor of USC Palmetto College. Catledge has served as interim dean since January 2024 and was previously the director […]

Lancaster County School District Honors Education Hall of Fame Inductees and 82 Retirees

Patrick Byrne

Lancaster, SC – The Lancaster County School District celebrated the induction of two esteemed individuals into its Education Hall of Fame and honored 82 dedicated retirees at a special event held on May 5, 2025. Louis Canty and Venise Grier were formally inducted into the Education Hall of Fame for their significant contributions to the […]

Fort Mill Girls Soar, Catawba Ridge Boys Excel at Region 3-AAAAA Track & Field Meet

Tom Hyslip

CLOVER, SC – May 1, 2025 – The track at Clover High School was alive with the energy of competition yesterday as seven area high schools battled for top honors at the Region 3-AAAAA Track and Field Championships. Under sunny skies, athletes from Fort Mill, Clover, Nation Ford, Rock Hill, Northwestern, Catawba Ridge, and Indian […]

Minor Earthquake Reported in Lancaster County Near SC-NC Border

Tom Hyslip

A minor earthquake was reported near the South Carolina–North Carolina state line Thursday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The 2.2 magnitude earthquake occurred around 3:00 am, with a recorded depth of approximately five kilometers. The epicenter was located about 4.7 miles south-southwest of JAARS, North Carolina, and roughly 16 miles east-southeast of […]

Lancaster County Council Advances Road Funding, Backs Major Industrial Projects in April 28 Meeting

Tom Hyslip

The Lancaster County Council held its regular meeting on April 28, 2025, in the County Administration Building. The meeting covered a wide range of topics, including youth engagement initiatives, volunteer recognitions, updates on major infrastructure projects, economic development incentives, and long-term planning matters. Council members heard from residents on road conditions and public services, debated […]

Local Students Named to USCB Chancellor’s List

Tom Hyslip

Several students from York and Lancaster counties have been recognized for academic excellence by the University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB). The university recently announced its Winter 2024 Chancellor’s List, honoring undergraduate students who achieved a high standard of academic performance. To be named to the Chancellor’s List, students must be degree-seeking undergraduates and maintain […]

State Treasurer Curtis Loftis Recognizes William “Ed” Humphrey of Lancaster High School as Educator of the Month

Tom Hyslip

COLUMBIA, S.C. (Apr. 25, 2025) – South Carolina Treasurer Curtis Loftis has recognized William “Ed” Humphrey of Lancaster High School as the South Carolina Financial Literacy Master Teacher Program’s Educator of the Month for April. “As we celebrate Financial Literacy Month this April, we applaud Ed Humphrey and other outstanding educators across our state who […]

Lancaster Man Arrested in Connection with Armed Robbery at Jones Crossroads Grocery

Tom Hyslip

LANCASTER, S.C. — A Lancaster man has been arrested and charged in connection with an armed robbery earlier this month at a local grocery store. According to the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, Alexis Rodriguez, 40, of Lancaster, has been charged with armed robbery, possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime, and […]

MUSC Receives Approval to Build New Hospital in Indian Land

Tom Hyslip

INDIAN LAND, S.C. — The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) has received approval to move forward with construction of a new hospital in Indian Land, marking a significant expansion of healthcare services in Lancaster County. The  hospital is part of a broader $860 million plan that also includes the construction of another facility in […]

York and Lancaster County Fire Departments Earn 2024 Fire Safe South Carolina Community Designation

Tom Hyslip

YORK & LANCASTER COUNTIES — Several fire departments in York and Lancaster counties have earned the prestigious 2024 Fire Safe South Carolina (FSSC) Community Designation, recognizing their commitment to public safety and fire prevention education. The honored departments include: Bethel Fire Department Flint Hill Fire Rescue Fort Mill Fire Department Riverview Volunteer Fire Department Rock […]

Indian Land’s Julie Holmes Crowned Mrs. South Carolina 2025

Tom Hyslip

Indian Land, SC – Lancaster County is celebrating a new queen! Julie Holmes, a resident of Indian Land, has been crowned Mrs. South Carolina 2025. The announcement was met with excitement in her community, where she lives with her husband, Greg Holmes, and their three children. Holmes will now have the honor of representing the […]

Lancaster County Council Launches FY2026 Budget Talks with Focus on Growth, Staffing Needs, and Strategic Fund Use

Tom Hyslip

The Lancaster County Council held a budget workshop on April 9, 2025, to begin formal discussions on the FY2026 budget. The meeting featured detailed departmental presentations, strategic planning discussions, and early deliberations on funding priorities. The county administrator and CFO emphasized improved transparency, compliance, and operational efficiency in budget planning, with special focus on staffing […]

Explore Local Heritage at the 2025 Battle of the Waxhaws Event Weekend

Patrick Byrne

History will come to life across state lines as the Battle of the Waxhaws 2025 Event Weekend returns, offering an immersive experience that explores the region’s Revolutionary War roots. Scheduled for June 6th-8th, this cross-border event spans both North and South Carolina and invites the public to engage with key sites from the early Waxhaw […]

Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office Seeking Recruits for Deputy & Correctional Officer Positions

Patrick Byrne

Lancaster, SC – The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office is actively recruiting dedicated and motivated individuals to join their team, offering rewarding career opportunities in law enforcement. The agency is currently seeking applicants for the following positions: Deputy Sheriff: Starting salary $56,925 Correctional Officer: Starting salary $53,648 To be considered for these positions, applicants must meet […]

Lancaster County man arrested on Child Sexual Abuse Material charges

Tom Hyslip

(COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest of Thomas James Adams, 26, of Heath Springs, S.C., on five charges connected to the sexual exploitation of a minor. Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force investigators with the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office made the arrest. Investigators with the Attorney General’s Office, […]

Two Arrested After Shooting Inside Lancaster Walmart; Investigation Ongoing

Tom Hyslip

LANCASTER, S.C. — April 2, 2025 — Two men have been arrested and multiple others are being sought following a shooting inside the Walmart at 805 Highway 9 Bypass West in Lancaster on Tuesday afternoon. According to the Lancaster Police Department, 18-year-old Lareakus Antonio Cunningham Jr. and 19-year-old Na’Rickio Laquan Mickle, were taken into custody […]

75-Year-Old Indian Land Man Killed in Lancaster County Crash

Tom Hyslip

Lancaster County, S.C. – A 75-year-old man from Indian Land has died following a crash Monday afternoon in Lancaster County, according to the Lancaster County Coroner’s Office. The deadly collision happened near the 8700 block of Possum Hollow Road and involved a pickup truck and an SUV. Emergency responders rushed at least one occupant from […]

Lancaster City Council Reviews Affordable Housing Proposal, Farmers Market Plans, and Annexation

Tom Hyslip

The Lancaster City Council convened for its regular meeting on March 25, 2025. The session opened with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Council Member Miller. The meeting featured two important presentations, one on a proposed workforce housing project and the other on the conceptual design process for a new farmers market. […]

Lancaster County School District is partnering with the Cook Center!

Tom Hyslip

The Lancaster County School District is excited to announce our partnership with the Cook Center for Human Connection, which has generously provided a digital library called ParentGuidance.org.  This 24/7 FREE online resource offers parents, educators, and the community resources for student mental health.  Our entire community will have access to licensed therapists delivering different courses […]

Lancaster’s Sims Victorious, Lake Wylie’s Myers Second at MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Tournament

Tom Hyslip

LAKE WYLIE – Anglers Chad Sims of Lancaster, South Carolina, and Britt Myers Jr. of Lake Wylie, South Carolina, delivered outstanding performances at the recent MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) tournament held on Lake Wylie. Chad Sims emerged victorious, achieving a five-bass limit that weighed in at 18 pounds. This impressive feat earned him […]

Citizens Voice Concerns Over Proposed Park as Lancaster County Council Advances Major Development Projects

Tom Hyslip

At the March 24, 2025, meeting, the Lancaster County Council recognized the Indian Land Middle School football team for winning the 2024 Conference Championship. The meeting featured strong citizen opposition to a proposed park and greenway development, with residents citing concerns about traffic, safety, neighborhood disruption, and fiscal transparency. The council approved several ordinances, including […]

Lancaster County Leaders Consider $250M Bond Referendum, Expand Study on School Impact Fees Amid Growth Challenges

Tom Hyslip

The Lancaster County Council and the Lancaster County School District Board of Trustees convened for a historic joint meeting—the first in recent memory—to enhance communication and coordination between the two local governing bodies. Leaders from both sides emphasized a shared commitment to serving the growing population of Lancaster County and tackling challenges collaboratively, particularly in […]