Good morning, Florence.

Publix signed a lease for a nearly 47,000 square-foot store near downtown Florence (located at the Northeast Corner of Palmetto Street and Ebenezer Road).

The outlet is expected to create 140 jobs (opening date not yet determined).

Publix will open a new store in Florence — the popular chain makes its long-awaited Pee Dee debut.

A Florence woman was hurt and handcuffed at Greenwood Elementary School last Friday when a security officer reportedly used excessive force as she picked up her daughter—officials charged the officer with assault and battery, dismissed him, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

US Marshals captured 29-year-old Amir Marques Brewington who was sought in connection with a March 17 shooting on Cherise Court and charged with attempted murder, discharge of a firearm into a dwelling and possession of a weapon during a violent crime near Malloy Street in Florence.

Ross Hill — with over 15 years of teaching experience — directs Mariner Learning Collaborative, which opened in August 2023 in Florence and offers custom-tailored education with small group and one-on-one help in a Christian setting at Hoffmeyer Road Baptist Church on Southborough Road.

FSO Music of the Knights

7:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. — Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center — Ticketed event — Experience the magic of Britain’s finest songwriters performed by the Florence Symphony Orchestra and special guests.

Youth Mentors of the Pee Dee BBQ Festival

April 11-12 — ECA Fairgrounds — $10 wristband — Taste competition-quality barbecue and enjoy family-friendly activities while supporting local youth mentorship.

Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Florence

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Florence County Library System — Ticket purchase required — Explore hidden gems and enjoy interactive challenges in downtown Florence.

Pee Dee Roundup 13th Annual Event

10 AM – 5 PM — Florence Center — $20 preregistration, $25 day of — Celebrate automotive excellence with awards, music, and prizes.

The Biggest Spring Rodeo Reloaded

5-11:30 p.m. — 1533 Old Ebenezer Rd, Latta, SC — Tickets available — Experience the wildest ride of the season with bull riding, line dancing, and more.