Good morning, Spartanburg.

Travis Lee Watkins, 39, was arrested on murder and violent crime charges after a shooting at J.

C. Bull Apartments on Marion Avenue on April 30 at about 3:20 p.m.—Norman Higgins, 45, died from multiple gunshot wounds after being rushed to Spartanburg Medical Center.

WorldAtlas has compiled a list of 10 of South Carolina’s strangest landmarks—featuring local sites like Poinsett Bridge, the state’s oldest stone bridge between Greenville and Spartanburg—along with odd attractions such as a giant peach-shaped water tower near Gaffney and elephant statues in Hardeeville.

Cinco de Mayo celebrations will take place across the Upstate with events planned in Greenville, Spartanburg & Anderson from May 1 to 5; local venues will host bar crawls, live music & family-friendly festivals featuring food and drink specials.

After news that Limestone University will close at the end of the academic year, the faculty voted no confidence in President Nathan Copeland and the board for mismanagement and asked that they not attend the May 3 graduation—other schools such as Erskine, USC Upstate and Coker are reaching out to help students with scholarships and faster admissions.

Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright faces a second lawsuit as former sergeant Tracy Moss filed suit on April 23 accusing wrongful termination and malicious prosecution—allegedly for political support of his opponent in the 2024 primary election.

His office gave no comment on May 1 and Wright, currently on an unexplained leave, did not respond—leaving the case to proceed through the courts.

The ACC football coach rankings show Dabo Swinney remains the top coach while Florida State’s Mike Norvell drops in the list and Georgia Tech’s Brent Key rises.

Only three active coaches have won national championships—an achievement that cements Swinney’s standing and sparks debate over the rest.

Spartanburg's Criterium is celebrating its 20th anniversary today with 600 cyclists and 110 tailgating tents as road closures impact downtown until May 3.

Organizer Laura Ringo said the race—described as NASCAR on bicycles—is set to raise funds for trail projects and boost the event's community spirit.

Houndmouth Live in Spartanburg

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful sounds of Houndmouth, a must-see band blending alternative blues with rock vibes.

Shen Yun

6-8 p.m. — Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium — Upgrade available for $30 — Experience a masterful blend of music and dance from ancient China with Shen Yun.

Love Where You Live 5/10K

8:30 a.m. — 125 E Main St, Spartanburg, SC — Registration required — Celebrate local community spirit with a fun 5K and 10K run.

Bingo Loco Extravaganza

7-10 p.m. — Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium — Tickets required — Experience a lively night of bingo with a twist and enjoy entertainment with a local flavor.

John Anderson Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary country music of John Anderson with hits spanning decades.

TJ Jeter Band Performance

6-9 p.m. — Fretwell — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music from seasoned musician TJ Jeter and his band.

Cancer Survivors Day Celebration

2-4 p.m. — Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium — Free admission — Celebrate the courage of cancer survivors with food, music, and community spirit.