Reports that a 90-year-old Rock Hill woman was scammed by a man pretending to be a city employee no doubt sent shivers down the backs of many local residents, especially the elderly. But this incident also serves as a reminder to all to be careful about who they invite into their homes.

America's birthday party might be a little gloomy today.

If you want to kick the smoking habit, you won't get any help from the state this year.

The message from the state Supreme Court should be clear: Bills passed by the Legislature can't be loaded down with unrelated amendments -- commonly known as bobtails.

Mark Keel, who took over the state Department of Public Safety in April, inherited an agency tarnished by allegations of misconduct by state troopers. A recent report that 80 current troopers have been disciplined at least twice since 2003 indicates that more housecleaning may be necessary.

Glencairn Garden turned 50, and the birthday party will last all year.

We can't understand why the state Budget and Control Board would call a halt to the installation of sprinkler systems in old dorms at the University of South Carolina -- especially when no taxpayer money is involved in the upgrade.

Rock Hill residents may initially resist shelling out $50 for a yard cart to store grass clippings, sticks and other small debris. But they may come to like the new system.

The idea of a Rock Hill track that could host national-caliber bicycle races is tantalizing. But we agree with city officials who say it would have to have other uses that serve the local community to justify an investment of public money.

The Catawba River is one of the region's great natural assets. Now, with the debut of a new 1.2-mile trail along the river, more residents likely are to discover its beauty.