Friday, May 16 2025

Local Bob Jones University Students Named to Dean’s List

Tom Hyslip

GREENVILLE, SC (05/13/2025)– The following students are among approximately 660 Bob Jones University students named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2025 semester. The Dean’s List recognizes students who earn a 3.00-3.74 grade point average during the semester. Aislinn Childers, a Freshman Criminal Justice major at BJU, is a resident of Rock Hill. Abigail Gillespie, […]

Northwestern High School Names Ty Baumgardner as New Head Basketball Coach

Tom Hyslip

Rock Hill, S.C. — Northwestern High School has announced the hiring of Ty Baumgardner as the new head coach of the Trojans men’s basketball program. Baumgardner joins Northwestern with more than two decades of coaching experience across multiple states. Most recently, he led the basketball program at Collins Hill High School in Georgia. His previous […]

SCETV Premieres Documentary Celebrating Rock Hill’s Vibrant Mural Scene

Patrick Byrne

South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) has announced the premiere of “SC On Display: The Murals of Rock Hill,” a new 30-minute documentary that explores the transformative power of public art in communities and its role in preserving cultural identity. The program premiered on ETV on May 8th at 8 p.m. and will have […]

Former Rock Hill Police Officer Convicted on 18 Counts of Child Sexual Abuse Material

Patrick Byrne

A federal jury in Columbia has found Daniel Paul Shealy, 36, of Rock Hill, guilty on 18 counts of possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material. The verdict was reached after three days of testimony and approximately 90 minutes of jury deliberation. Evidence presented during the trial revealed that in 2023, investigators with the […]

Hissho Sushi Relocates Headquarters to Rock Hill, Bringing 146 Jobs and $5 Million Investment to York County

Tom Hyslip

ROCK HILL, S.C. — Hissho Sushi, one of the largest sushi distributors in the United States, is moving its corporate headquarters and primary distribution operations to York County, marking its first major operational footprint in South Carolina. The company announced a $5 million investment in the new facility, which is expected to create 146 new […]

Rock Hill City Council Advances Rezoning, Approves Senior Housing Incentives at April 28 Meeting

Tom Hyslip

The Rock Hill City Council met on April 28, 2025, to address a range of legislative, zoning, and development matters. Key decisions included the approval of property conveyances and zoning changes, recertification of the Bleachery Site for redevelopment incentives, and multiple Planning Commission recommendations related to rezoning and annexations. The Council also approved a Growth […]

Jessica Branham of Rock Hill inducted into Phi Beta Kappa

Tom Hyslip

SPARTANBURG, SC (05/02/2025)– Wofford’s chapter of Phi Beta Kappa welcomed 39 members into the nation’s oldest academic honor society during an induction ceremony at Leonard Auditorium on May 1. Founded in 1776, Phi Beta Kappa honors the nation’s most outstanding undergraduate students for excellence in the liberal arts and sciences. Only 10 percent of U.S. […]

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 […]

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 […]

Rock Hill Men Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Fentanyl Conspiracy

Patrick Byrne

Timario Gayton, 33, and Quonzy Hope, 36, both of Rock Hill, have each been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Evidence presented in court revealed that in August 2022, Hope sold approximately 5,000 fentanyl pills to a […]

Hometown Hero Headed to the Emerald City: Robbie Ouzts Drafted by the Seattle Seahawks

Tom Hyslip

The dreams of a local standout have become a reality as Robbie Ouzts, a proud product of Rock Hill, South Carolina, and a former Rock Hill High School Bearcat, has been selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the 2025 NFL Draft. The announcement, made earlier today, has sent waves of excitement through the Rock Hill […]

Abigale Ross of Rock Hill Elected to Membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

Tom Hyslip

BATON ROUGE, LA (04/23/2025)– Abigale Ross of Rock Hill, South Carolina, was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society, at Syracuse University. Ross is among approximately 20,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi […]

Winthrop University Student Affairs Recognizes Efforts by Outstanding Students

Tom Hyslip

ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA – A French marketing major and the student body leader captured top honors at the 2025 Winthrop University Student Affairs Awards ceremony on April 16 at the DiGiorgio Campus Center. Mathilde Pieri was presented the Mary Mildred Sullivan Award for her extraordinary impact on Winthrop and the surrounding community. As an […]

Five Winthrop Music Students Win International Scholarships

Tom Hyslip

ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA – An astounding five Winthrop University music students have landed International Trumpet Guild scholarships. Thanks to those scholarships, Olivia Clifton of Summerville, S.C., Will Isenhour of Clover, S.C., Riley Lazar of Anderson, S.C., Michael Mott of Stanley, N.C., and Lilie Robles Smith of Greenville, S.C., will attend the 48th Annual Trumpet […]

Melissa McCartney Named Dean of Winthrop’s School of Graduate, Continuing, and Online Education

Tom Hyslip

ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA – Melissa McCartney, the founding dean of the Graduate School, an associate provost for digital learning and chief online officer for Queens University of Charlotte, has been named the dean of Winthrop University’s School of Graduate, Continuing, and Online Education, beginning July 16, 2025. McCartney was selected from a strong pool of candidates. Provost […]

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 […]

Carowinds Springs into Spring Break

Patrick Byrne

Carowinds is rolling out the red carpet for spring break with extended hours and an action-packed lineup of family-friendly events from April 11 through April 27 — perfect timing for families in Fort Mill, where schools will be on Spring Break the week of April 14. Rock Hill and Clover students can also take part […]

York County Library to Host First-Ever Teen Open Mic Night Featuring Poetry and Jazz

Patrick Byrne

A brand-new event at the York County Library is giving local teens the spotlight to share their creativity through poetry and music. The library’s first Teen Open Mic Night promises an evening of family-friendly spoken word and jazz, celebrating the voices of young performers. Hosted by Rock Hill Youth Poet Laureate Genesis Medley and award-winning author, […]

Catawba Nuclear Station Siren Test Scheduled for April 9th

Patrick Byrne

York County, SC – Residents living within a 10-mile radius of the Catawba Nuclear Station are advised that Duke Energy and York County emergency management officials will conduct a routine test of the outdoor warning sirens on Wednesday, April 9th, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. The test will involve activating the 89 sirens located around […]

Fort Mill and Northwestern Clash in High-Octane Track and Field Duel

Tom Hyslip

Fort Mill, SC – A showdown of track and field titans unfolded last night as  Northwestern hosted Fort Mill, delivering a spectacle of speed, strength, and endurance. Both teams showcased their depth and talent, with state-leading athletes battling for supremacy. The Northwestern boys entered the meet with a formidable sprinting arsenal, spearheaded by Austin Smith, […]

Rock Hill School District Names Former Local News Anchor Laurabree Monday as New Public Information Officer

Tom Hyslip

Rock Hill, SC – The Rock Hill School District is proud to announce the hiring of Laurabree Monday as its new Public Information Officer. A seasoned journalist and community leader, Laurabree brings over two decades of experience in media, communications, and community engagement to the district, as well as a deep passion for serving the […]

York County Committee Approves Park Tax Increase Amid Youth Sports Equity Concerns

Patrick Byrne

In a contentious 2-1 vote on March 27, the York County Health & Environmental Protection (HEP) Committee recommended a significant shift in how parks and recreation are funded across the county. The committee endorsed Option #4—a proposal to eliminate the long-standing 1.5 mill recreation tax on unincorporated residents and replace it with a new countywide […]

Rabid Skunk Confirmed in York County; One Pet Exposed

Tom Hyslip

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that a skunk found near Gateview Court and Lamp Post Lane in Rock Hill, S.C., has tested positive for rabies. No people are known to have been exposed at this time. One dog was exposed and will be quarantined as required in the […]

Introducing The Citadel Class of 2026 Summerall Guards

Tom Hyslip

The Summerall Guards for the Class of 2026 are now in position. The 61 rising-senior cadets held their first performance during the changing of the guard ceremony, an event that is part of The Citadel’s annual Corps Day weekend ceremonies. This marks the moment that the Class of 2025 Summerall Guards perform their last precision […]

USA BMX Carolina Nationals Kick Off Today in Rock Hill

Tom Hyslip

ROCK HILL, S.C. — The USA BMX Carolina Nationals return to Rock Hill starting today, launching a weekend full of high-speed action and world-class competition at the Rock Hill BMX Supercross Track. From March 28–30, thousands of riders, spectators, and fans from across the country are expected to gather at the world-renowned facility at 1307 […]

Fort Mill Track and Field Sweeps Rock Hill; Girls Remain Unbeaten

Tom Hyslip

The Fort Mill High School track and field teams secured victories over Rock Hill High School in a dual meet held on March 26, 2025, at Fort Mill’s home track. Both the boys’ and girls’ teams from Fort Mill showcased strong performances across various events. In the sprints, Fort Mill’s athletes delivered notable results, with […]

Rock Hill Names Award Winners during Annual Volunteer Celebration

Tom Hyslip

Rock Hill, South Carolina – At an event on March 25, 2025, the City of Rock Hill thanked hundreds of volunteers who gave nearly 18,000 hours of service to Parks, Recreation and Tourism (PRT) events and programs. Mark Sexton, PRT director, said, “These volunteers sharing their time and talent elevates the level of programming and […]

Rock Hill’s Come-See-Me Festival: A 10-Day Spring Celebration

Tom Hyslip

Rock Hill, South Carolina, is set to burst into vibrant spring colors as the annual Come-See-Me Festival returns from April 3 to 12, 2025. This beloved 10-day celebration, a cornerstone of the community, promises a delightful array of family-friendly activities and events. What began as a simple weekend gathering in 1962 has blossomed into a […]

Saluda Trail Middle and York Middle Schools Awarded State Grants for Teacher Excellence

Tom Hyslip

The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) has awarded $5 million in Strategic Compensation Pilot Grants to 37 schools across 29 districts, aiming to accelerate student growth in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics. Among the recipients are Saluda Trail Middle School in the Rock Hill School District Three and York Middle School in the […]

Byrnes Auditorium Reopens with a Symphony of Celebration

Tom Hyslip

Rock Hill, SC – After a prolonged closure marked by renovations and unexpected setbacks, Winthrop University is thrilled to announce the grand reopening of its historic Byrnes Auditorium. The iconic building, a cornerstone of the campus since 1939, will once again resonate with the sounds of music and the energy of live performance, starting with […]

Shining Stars of Agriculture: Local Students Represent at 2025 Miss FFA Scholarship Pageant

Tom Hyslip

The South Carolina FFA community recently celebrated its brightest young leaders at the 2025 Miss FFA Scholarship Pageant, held at the Greenwood 50 Performing Arts Center on February 28th. Among the 64 talented contestants, students from Rock Hill, Tega Cay, Fort Mill (Baxter Village), and York showcased their dedication to agriculture and personal excellence. The […]

Historic Brattonsville Reconsecrates Burial Ground for Enslaved Ancestors

Patrick Byrne

On Saturday, February 22, 2025, Historic Brattonsville in McConnells, South Carolina, held a ceremony to honor and reconsecrate a burial ground containing the graves of at least 481 individuals of African descent. Archaeologists and museum officials have identified this five-acre site as one of the largest burial grounds for enslaved people in the Carolina Piedmont. […]

Two Rock Hill Men Sentenced in Federal Drug Distribution Conspiracy

Patrick Byrne

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Emmanuel Deon Foster, 36, and Bobby Antoinios Hall, 41, both residents of Rock Hill, have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a significant drug distribution conspiracy. The operation involved the distribution of fentanyl-laced pills, crack cocaine, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin in the Rock Hill area. According to evidence presented […]

Savoring Authentic Mexican Ice Cream in York and Lancaster Counties

Patrick Byrne

Mexican ice cream, known for its rich flavors and artisanal craftsmanship, has found a welcoming home in both York and Lancaster county. Local establishments are bringing the authentic taste of traditional Mexican paletas and ice cream to the community. Are you curious? We’ve provided 3 places where you can try it for yourself: Bajo Cero […]

Seven Eleven Memorial Golf Tournament to Honor Andrew Nims and Support Suicide Prevention Efforts

Patrick Byrne

The Seven Eleven Memorial Golf Tournament is set to take place on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at the Tega Cay Golf Club. This annual event aims to unite the community in raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention, with a particular focus on veterans, young adults, and the broader population. The tournament is being […]

Rock Hill Lottery Player Felt $1 Million Win Was Imminent

Tom Hyslip

A Rock Hill lottery player wasn’t surprised when he won $1 million. “I knew I was going to hit it big,” he told South Carolina Education Lottery officials. The winner’s lucky feeling was spot on when he bought a $10 scratch-off at the Quick Food Mart on E. Main St. in Rock Hill. That ticket […]

Sip & Savor: The Best Wine Spots in York County

Patrick Byrne

York County offers a vibrant and diverse wine scene, perfect for both seasoned wine connoisseurs and casual sippers. From cozy wine bars to unique tasting experiences, there’s something for everyone. Visit York County has highlighted some of the best places to enjoy a glass (or bottle) in the area. Grapevine – York, Riverwalk, & Baxter […]

South Pointe Alum Garrett Brown Blazes to 2nd Place at Clemson’s Tiger Paw Invite

Tom Hyslip

Clemson University freshman and South Pointe High School alumnus Garrett Brown is making a name for himself in track and field. This weekend, at the Clemson University Tiger Paw Invite, Brown delivered a pair of stunning performances, including a near-victory in the 3000m. Brown blazed through the 3000m run, finishing in a personal best time […]

Winthrop’s Trumpet Ensemble Makes School History in National Competition

Tom Hyslip

ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA – For the first time in school history, Winthrop University’s Trumpet Ensemble will compete in the live round of the National Trumpet Competition (NTC), scheduled for March 12-16, 2025, at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. The university’s ensemble will also be the only collegiate ensemble from South Carolina. The […]

Winthrop Athletics Inducts 2025 Hall Of Fame Class

Tom Hyslip

Rock Hill, S.C. – Winthrop Athletics held its 17th Hall of Fame ceremony Friday night inside the Richardson Ballroom. Six former student-athletes inducted included Marthaline Cooper (women’s track & field), Jacob Dempsey (baseball), Krystyna Freda (women’s soccer), Henry Kalungi (men’s soccer), Erin Lehman (volleyball), and Daniel Revivo (men’s soccer). The administrative inductee is former Winthrop Assistant Athletic […]

New Date for McGirt Auditorium Renovation Celebration

Tom Hyslip

Community Event Rescheduled for Wednesday, February 19, 2025 Rock Hill, South Carolina – The City of Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department will host the rescheduled community event on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at 11 AM to celebrate the significant renovations made to the historic Ralph W. McGirt Auditorium at Emmett Scott Recreation Center. […]

Miracle Park Rock Hill to Break Ground on Final Phases of Construction

Patrick Byrne

Rock Hill, S.C. – Miracle Park Rock Hill is set to take another major step toward completion with a groundbreaking ceremony at 1 PM on Friday, January 31, 2025. The event, marking the launch of the park’s final construction phases, will feature remarks from South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, Rock Hill Mayor John Gettys, […]

Lt. Governor Pamela Evette, SCDES Recognize York County Entities for Joint Efforts in Watershed Planning and Protection 

Tom Hyslip

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Today, Lt. Governor Pamela Evette and the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) recognized several local governments and entities in York County for their effective collaboration on watershed planning and protection. Lt. Governor Evette and SCDES Interim Director Myra Reece presented representatives of the Watershed Evaluation Team (WET) with SCDES’s Power […]

Tega Cay, Fort Mill, York, Rock Hill, York County and Catawba Indian Nation Recognized for Watershed Protection Efforts by Lt. Governor Evette

Tom Hyslip

SCDES, Lt. Governor Evette to Recognize Local Governments for Collaborative Watershed Protection Efforts   COLUMBIA, S.C.  ?  The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) and South Carolina Lt. Governor Pamela Evette are recognizing several local governments and entities for their effective collaboration on watershed planning and protection in and around York County.   The Watershed Evaluation […]

Roanoke Island Historical Association to Hold Auditions with Catawba Nation for 88th Season of The Lost Colony

Patrick Byrne

The Roanoke Island Historical Association (RIHA) is partnering with the Catawba Nation to host auditions for the 88th season of The Lost Colony, the nation’s longest-running outdoor symphonic drama. Cultural Coordinator Kaya Littleturtle, alongside members of the RIHA, will conduct auditions on Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Catawba […]

Ralph W. McGirt Auditorium Celebration

Tom Hyslip

Community Event Wednesday, January 22 Celebrating the Improvements Rock Hill, South Carolina – The City of Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department will host a community event Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at 11 AMto celebrate significant renovations made to the historic Ralph W. McGirt Auditorium at Emmett Scott Recreation Center, 801 Crawford Road. The […]

Founders FCU Announces Leadership Transition

Chris Miller

After more than 20 distinguished years as President and CEO of Founders Federal Credit Union, Bruce Brumfield has announced his upcoming retirement effective December 31, 2025. This announcement comes after a multi-year leadership transition plan initiated by Brumfield and the Board of Directors to ensure the future success of the credit union. Brumfield joined Founders […]

Wizardry Meets Science at Museum of York County’s Harry Potter Science Saturday

Patrick Byrne

YORK COUNTY, S.C. — Magic and science will converge at the Museum of York County on Saturday, February 8, for an enchanting day of hands-on activities and spellbinding fun. Transforming into the Museum of York County School of Witchcraft & Wizardry, the event promises a journey into the world of magic, creatures, and potions. Event […]

York County 4-H Launches Journalism Project for Aspiring Young Storytellers

Patrick Byrne

York County, SC — Budding journalists and photographers in York County have an exciting opportunity to hone their skills with the York County 4-H Journalism Project. Open to youth aged 12 to 18, this initiative offers a chance to explore reporting, photography, and writing while capturing the world of 4-H events. What Participants Will Do: […]

Rock Hill Schools to Cut District Jobs, and restructure staffing

Tom Hyslip

Rock Hill Schools is making significant changes for the upcoming school year. Here’s a summary: Shifting staffing: Some personnel is being moved or re-directed from district offices to individual schools. Teacher pay raises are not effected. Staffing Changes:  Positions are being eliminated or restructured. The exact number of affected jobs is still unclear. Virtual Academy […]