** CORRECTION **

In our previous issue, an editing error led to the publication of incorrect information regarding the new café at 2430 Reidville Road.

We would like to clarify that Botanical Brew, a beloved local favorite from Lyman, has officially opened its second location at this address — not Bridge City Coffee, as was mistakenly reported.

Known for its cozy, greenhouse-inspired atmosphere, Botanical Brew combines exceptional coffee, fresh pastries, and an ever-changing selection of plants and gifts. The new Spartanburg location offers the same inviting blend of community and creativity that has made the original café a local staple.

Botanical Brew’s Spartanburg shop is open seven days a week. The grand opening celebration was on Monday, November 3. We sincerely apologize for the mix-up and appreciate your understanding as we continue highlighting the wonderful local businesses that make Spartanburg thrive. 

— The Editorial Team

What historic Spartanburg venue, opened in 1951, has hosted everyone from Johnny Cash to James Brown — and remains a cornerstone for concerts, graduations, and community events today?

A) Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium
B) Chapman Cultural Center
C) The Piedmont Club
D) Hub City Railroad Museum

The integrity of local elections is under scrutiny in Spartanburg County, where officials have launched a formal investigation into troubling allegations against poll workers.

The inquiry centers on claims that poll managers may have worked in precincts where their own close relatives were candidates on the ballot.

If true, this represents a direct violation of South Carolina election law, which is designed to prevent conflicts of interest.

Law enforcement is now involved in the case.

The individuals under investigation have been suspended from their duties pending the outcome.

State rules explicitly prohibit poll managers from serving where an immediate family member is a candidate, a requirement they affirm in a sworn oath.

This situation strikes at the heart of voter confidence and the critical need for impartiality at the polls.

A new chapter in law enforcement has begun for Spartanburg County.

Bill Rhyne took the oath of office, becoming the first new sheriff to lead the county in twenty years and promising a culture of accountability.

A veteran of public safety, Rhyne described the role as a calling he had to answer.

His new command staff marks a historic moment with the appointment of Captain Michelle Johnson, the first woman ever to hold such a position in the county.

To immediately foster transparency, Sheriff Rhyne announced plans to release quarterly financial updates to the public.

He also created a new Director of Budget and Finance position.

These decisive steps are intended to strengthen the bond between law enforcement and the community they serve by prioritizing openness and fiscal responsibility.

The holiday spirit is building in Spartanburg County with a new initiative to encourage shopping local.

A community-wide effort is now underway to create the definitive Spartanburg Gift Guide, a curated collection celebrating local talent.

The guide will showcase unique treasures from our friends and neighbors, including handcrafted jewelry, artisanal foods, and bespoke apparel from Downtown Spartanburg boutiques.

When you buy from a local maker, you invest in a local family and strengthen the fabric of the Hub City economy.

This is a call to action for the business owners who make our community shine.

An open invitation is extended to local shops, cafés, and makers to submit their information to be featured in the highly anticipated guide.

The goal is to make it easier than ever to support Spartanburg and give a gift that truly keeps on giving back to our city.

📣 Help Us Grow the Signal

The Spartan Signal is built for Spartanburg — by the community, for the community. Every edition we publish is a way to celebrate what’s happening here: the businesses opening their doors, the volunteers making a difference, the events that bring us together, and the people who make the Upstate shine.

If you’ve enjoyed reading, we’d love your help spreading the word. Share this newsletter with friends, family, and neighbors who care about Spartanburg as much as you do. Forward it, post it, or simply tell someone, “You should be reading The Signal.”

We also want to hear from you.
Community organizations, local businesses, and creative voices — send us your stories, event announcements, or press releases to newsletter@thespartansignal.com.

Together, we can make sure every corner of Spartanburg is seen, supported, and celebrated.

Stay local. Stay informed. Stay part of the Signal.

Answer: A) Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium.
This 3,200-seat venue has been the Upstate’s premier stage for more than 70 years, attracting top-tier performers while serving as a gathering place for civic events and celebrations across generations.

As we move deeper into November, Spartanburg is full of small signs of what makes this place special — local businesses growing, neighbors lending a hand, and streets coming alive with lights, parades, and that early hint of the holidays.

Take a moment this week to slow down and notice it: the smell of fresh coffee at a new café, a volunteer collecting coats, or the sound of a high-school band tuning up for the parade. These are the threads that keep our community strong.

We’ll be back next week with more stories from the heart of the Upstate — but until then, support local, stay curious, and keep the signal strong.

— The Spartan Signal Team