Good morning, Rock Hill.

Dr. Edward Simmer’s nomination to lead the South Carolina Department of Public Health met strong opposition when the Senate Medical Affairs Committee voted 12 to 5 on April 3rd amid concerns about his COVID-19 policies — a sharp turnaround from his previous 40 to 1 confirmation vote. Governor McMaster supports him as the committee schedules further questioning to address ongoing issues.

A new bill introduced in the statehouse would impose a felony charge, a $2,000 fine and a mandatory minimum of two years in prison for anyone who intentionally harms a police dog or horse.

Law enforcement agencies support the proposal to deter attacks amid a rise in K-9 fatalities — officials note that each dog requires over 600 hours of training and costs up to $18,000.

Fire departments in York and Lancaster counties, including Rock Hill Fire Department, earned the 2024 Fire Safe South Carolina Community Designation for completing fire prevention training, systematic data reporting, and community education programs—207 departments statewide received the honor. The winners will be recognized at the 2025 Fire-Rescue Conference on June 13 at 3:30 p.m. in Myrtle Beach.

Today, Ramona Holloway spoke with Damion Lewis—violence intervention coordinator at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center—about a program that helps victims access tools and resources to heal and move on.

The discussion highlights how the initiative works to curb community violence and support recovery.

Annual Family Easter Egg Hunt

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — The Power House - Food Hall and Apartments at University Center — Free entry — Enjoy a fun-filled day with an egg hunt and a vibrant Spring Vendor Market.

Learning from Lived Foster Care Experiences

6:00 – 7:30 PM — DiGiorgio Campus Center — Free entry — Engage in a panel discussion focused on the valuable insights from individuals with lived experiences in foster care.

Euchre at Fewell Park

1:30-4:30 p.m. — Fewell Park Center — Free entry — Enjoy an afternoon of strategy and fun with a classic card game of Euchre.

Digital Renaissance: Disney Animation in the 1990s

11 PM - 1 AM — 143 N Confederate Ave, Rock Hill, SC — Free entry — Explore the impact of computers on Disney’s animation boom during the 1990s.

Movie Night at Purrfect Pair Cat Cafe: Studio Ghibli's The Cat Returns

6-8 p.m. — Purrfect Pair Cat Cafe — $25 — Enjoy a magical evening with Studio Ghibli's animation surrounded by adorable cats.

Spring Soiree Sip & Stroll

12-5 p.m. — Purrfect Pair Cat Cafe — Free entry — Sip on something sweet while shopping local and cuddling with kitties.

April Finishing Clinic for Field Players and Goalkeepers

3:30-5 p.m. — Carolina Futsal Development Center — Registration required — Hone finishing and shot-stopping skills in a competitive environment.

A.C. Flora Boys Varsity Soccer Match Against South Pointe

7-8:45 p.m. — South Pointe High School — Entry Fee Undisclosed — Witness an exciting home conference soccer match featuring A.C. Flora and South Pointe varsity teams.

April Wine Tasting Event

6-8 p.m. — CCB Bistro & Vine — Limited spaces — Explore 6 featured wines paired with delicious tapas crafted by Chef Shonali.

Teacher Appreciation Week

4-9 p.m. — Craft Axe Throwing — 20% off for teachers — Celebrate the impact of teachers with a fun throwing session and discounts for educators.