Good morning, Spartanburg.

Desiree Gomez, an assistant principal at Lyman Elementary, her husband Mohamad Shokair and their 18‐month‐old daughter Salma returned safely from southern Syria on July 23 after a high‐risk extraction amid violent conflict in As‐Suwayda by Grey Bull Rescue—supported by state and federal officials—brought them home. Local community leaders and family members expressed relief and gratitude for the coordinated rescue effort that overcame severe dangers to secure their return.

Today at 9:30 a.m., a new Whataburger opens in Duncan at 1537 East Main Street with a double drive-thru, a spacious dining room, and digital menu boards.

Operating partner Joshua Oleyourryk leads 65 employees as the restaurant offers the first 100 customers a swag bag and a free Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit or Breakfast Taquito.

A week-long search ended Tuesday morning when Gaffney police arrested 35-year-old Anthony Lee Jefferies Jr., accused of fatally shooting 46-year-old Joshua Wood during a nightclub incident on West Birnie Street on July 13, and booked him into Cherokee County Detention Center — he now faces charges of murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

Spartanburg County will see a combined $67 million investment by ZF Foxconn Chassis Modules and Auria as both auto part manufacturers expand their facilities and add 97 jobs.

The companies will invest $58.3 million and about $9 million respectively—tax breaks are provided through a 30-year FILOT agreement—supporting the expansion.

Verizon retailer Round Room will hold its 13th annual School Rocks Backpack Giveaway on Sunday, July 27th at 1 p.m. at several Upstate locations—families will also enjoy dunk tanks, obstacle courses, local giveaways, and a car show to ease back-to-school costs.

Under interim Sheriff Jeffery Stephens, the Rolling Thunder program has ended this year amid controversy over searches and seizures—while some sheriff candidates oppose reviving it, others would consider bringing it back, leaving its future to the next elected sheriff.

The debate focuses on issues surrounding civil asset forfeiture and its impact on motorists’ rights.

Chasity Miles-Anderson, a former ER nurse shot with an AR-15 and now paralyzed from the hips down, shared her inspiring journey as Ms. Wheelchair SC to empower others.

She will compete in a national pageant on August 18th—using her story to raise awareness for accessibility and mental health—and continues to inspire in Spartanburg.

Backyard Movie Nights: Night at the Museum

8-10:30 p.m. — Spartanburg Marriott — Free entry — Enjoy a magical evening under the stars with the family-friendly film Night at the Museum.

Fretwell Market

9 AM - 1 PM — Fretwell — Free entry — Explore seasonal food, local gifts, and artisan crafts at this vibrant community market.

Lawson Brothers Band Live Performance

7 PM - 1 AM — Local Hiker Pub — Entry details not specified — Enjoy a high-energy blend of country music from the dynamic Lawson Brothers DUO.

Free Shred Event for Financial Privacy

9 AM – 1 PM — South Carolina Federal Credit Union — Free event — Protect your privacy while donating to the Harvest Hope Food Bank.