Good morning, Fort Mill.

Merri Martin of River Trail Elementary School was named Elementary School Teacher of the Year by the South Carolina Association of Physical Education and Sport for her outstanding work in creating a great learning environment (she will be honored at the upcoming award ceremony by the South Carolina Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance).

South Carolina's peak fall colors will normally appear from mid-October to early November, and Fort Mill residents will enjoy a local display at Anne Springs Close Greenway.

Many state parks such as Caesars Head and Table Rock reach full color by the end of October—visitors can also head north to North Carolina to extend the season.

Peak fall foliage in South Carolina is expected from mid-October to early November with high-elevation spots like Caesars Head and Table Rock State Parks reaching their brightest colors later in the month—local areas such as Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill and Lake Wylie offer extended opportunities to enjoy the autumn displays, and a short drive into North Carolina will provide even more vibrant scenery. This guide helps locals plan trips to see the seasonal colors at their best.

The State Attorney General's Office has issued an advisory opinion stating that state law covers paid parental leave for teachers and state employees who experience a stillbirth—this opinion calls on state agencies to grant the benefit and urges the General Assembly to clarify the law. The opinion emphasizes that parents who suffer the same major medical event deserve the same paid leave benefits.

Master Police Officer John Aiton was honored as South Carolina’s 2024 School Resource Officer of the Year last week at the SCASRO annual conference—recognizing his long service to children and families.

His award reflects his steady commitment to school safety.

Emily Hayes of York won gold in the Women’s Team Sprint at the USA Cycling Elite Nationals—she and teammates Kayla Hankins and Hayley Yoslov set a national record of 1:04.485 while earning the top podium spot.

The Catawba Ridge girls' golf team improved to 4-0 after beating Clover 169-223 at Fort Mill Golf Club (Brooke Mehlhouse scored a 39) and will play York on Monday, Sept.

8 at Spring Lake Country Club (the team stays undefeated).

24th Annual Patchwork Tales Storytelling Festival

12 AM — York County Library — Free entry — Experience the magic of storytelling with performances from national and local talents.

4th Annual South Charlotte Golf Tournament

8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Carolina Lakes Golf Club — All-inclusive participation — Compete in a fun golf tournament with food, drinks, and prizes.

Fall Artisan Market

9 AM – 2 PM — Anne Springs Close Greenway Gateway & Canteen — Free entry — Explore locally made goods and delicious treats while enjoying the autumn atmosphere.