Good morning, Spartanburg.

Community members will celebrate America 250 at Duncan Park on July 11 with a baseball clinic for children, a presentation on the park's history, and a game scheduled as part of the festivities.

Hub City Bookshop will host author Denise Kiernan in conversation with Erin Templeton on Thursday, July 16 from 6 to 7 p.m. at 186 W.

Main St. in Spartanburg, and guests can RSVP (via Eventbrite) for a free event that includes a book signing of Obstinate Daughters.

Filming for the action thriller Panic Button wrapped in Greer and Greenville on June 28 after production began on June 15; the film stars Alec Baldwin and Jeremy Piven and qualifies for a local film incentive, though it does not have an official release date.

Gas prices in our state remain below the national average, giving drivers relief after the busy travel weekend.

Local pumps show regular gas at $3.43 (compared to $3.79 nationally) as global oil markets and ongoing talks may influence future rates.

South Carolina’s Good Samaritan law protects anyone who enters a hot car to rescue a child or vulnerable adult amid rising temperatures (from the upper 90s to triple digits) when they call 911 and act in good faith.

Residents should use EPA-approved repellent and avoid tall grass to prevent tick bites, as ticks stay active year-round and peak in warmer months.

The Department of Public Health warns that five tick species (including the Lone Star Tick linked to alpha-gal syndrome) may cause illness during outdoor activities.

Publix recalled its 10-ounce Frozen GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries (lot 60401) sold in South Carolina and nearby states after at least 12 people fell ill from E. coli on July 8.

Customers who bought the item on or before July 3 should discard it or return it for a refund.

Pinnacle Partnership received preliminary design approval for a six-story Home2 Suites hotel at 234 N.

Church St. downtown— planned to offer about 100 suite-style rooms to serve Spartanburg’s growing sports tourism demand — as final permits are pending with construction set to begin soon for a mid-2028 opening.

Former Woodruff running back Aiden Gibson reclassified to start his college career early at Rutgers, skipping his senior season, and coach Brett Sloan said senior tailback Jaylen Lyles will have a bigger role this season.

Woodruff also moves to Class 2A as the team prepares to face traditional regional rivals.

Nature Art Workshop

9 AM – 12 PM — Spartanburg Science Center — Fee required — Dive into a week of creativity with nature-themed arts and crafts projects.