Why did the Spartanburg barber win an award?

Because he gave the best buzz cuts in town!

A wave of change is sweeping through downtown Spartanburg, with new construction transforming the city's skyline.

Hundreds of millions are being invested in major projects, including a new baseball stadium, a state-of-the-art planetarium, and various residential complexes.

The most visible symbol of this evolution is the ongoing redesign of Morgan Square and the community-wide debate over the future of its iconic clock tower.

This rapid growth brings undeniable excitement and opportunity, with new businesses and pedestrian-friendly streetscaping projects underway.

Yet, watching familiar landmarks disappear also sparks a bittersweet feeling, reminding residents of the unstoppable passage of time.

The transformation prompts a deeper reflection on cherishing the city's history and character while embracing its future.

It's a powerful call to live intentionally amidst the Hub City's unstoppable growth.

Downtown Spartanburg will unite for the Annual Mayor's Walk & Roll on Thursday, October 16, a powerful event championing community and inclusion.

Organized by the Mayors of Spartanburg County Committee for People with Disabilities, the day highlights the importance of accessibility for all residents.

This year’s theme is "Access to Good Jobs for Everyone," a direct call to local businesses to support the economic empowerment of individuals with disabilities.

Participants will gather at the Morgan Square Clock Tower at 8:30 a.m.

The route proceeds through the heart of the city and concludes at the historic Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium.

Following the walk, students will be transported to Spartanburg High School for a special educational program.

This cherished event is a key part of Disabilities Awareness Month, sending an unmistakable message about the city’s commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for every single person.

Get ready, Spartanburg, for a baseball experience unlike any other.

The wildly popular sensation known as Banana Ball is officially coming to Fifth Third Park for a three-day series in August 2026.

This isn't your traditional game.

It’s a fast-paced, fan-focused spectacle that has sold out stadiums across the country, blending elite athleticism with Harlem Globetrotters-style entertainment.

The event will feature the Texas Tailgaters facing the legendary Indianapolis Clowns, a celebrated team being revived from the historic Negro American League.

But if you want to be in the stands, you have to act fast.

The only way to get tickets is through a special lottery system.

Fans must join the official ticket lottery list for a chance to purchase tickets, and the window to enter closes permanently on October 31st.

Entry doesn’t guarantee seats, but those selected can buy tickets starting at $35.

A palpable shift is underway in the Spartanburg housing market.

After years favoring sellers, a surge in housing inventory is creating a more balanced field, giving local buyers newfound leverage and optimism.

The number of available homes in the county has climbed to nearly 1,800, a level not seen in almost a decade.

According to Michelle Gleed, president of the Spartanburg Association of Realtors, this allows buyers to once again negotiate for repairs and closing costs.

This inventory boom is fueled by new construction from builders like Century Communities, with projects like the Frey Creek development adding more attainable homes.

While the frenetic pace has cooled, home values continue to appreciate, supported by Spartanburg's resilient job market.

Experts suggest that now is an opportune time for buyers to act before potential interest rate drops heat up the competition once more.

Caramel Apple Pork Chops

🍎 Caramel Apple Pork Chops Recipe
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per serving: ~838

🧂 Ingredients
•     8 boneless pork chops
•     1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or olive)
•     2 apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
•     4 tablespoons butter
•     ½ cup brown sugar
•     ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
•     ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
•     ½ cup chopped pecans (optional but adds great texture)
🔥 Instructions
1.     Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2.     Sear the pork chops:
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown pork chops for about 1 minute per side. Remove and set aside.
3.     Make the caramel apple sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until combined. Add apple slices and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4.     Combine and bake:
Return pork chops to the skillet. Sprinkle with chopped pecans. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until pork is cooked through and apples are tender.
5.     Serve:
Spoon apples and sauce over pork chops. Serve hot with mashed potatoes or buttered green beans for a cozy Southern-style meal.

Tips
• For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce before baking.
• Swap pecans for walnuts if preferred.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork reaches an internal temperature of 145`F.

Thanks for catching up with us this week! Whether you're planning to hit a local event, support a small business, or just enjoy the fall vibes around Spartanburg, we hope you find something that brings a little joy to your weekend.

Don’t forget to share this newsletter with friends and neighbors — and if you spot something feel-good around town or have a great local tip, hit reply and let us know!

See you next week! 🌟
— Your Spartan Signal Team