Good morning, Florence.

A Florence County man was arrested Monday—accused of trying to sexually assault a woman after an attack.

The cousin of suspect Tai’yuan Jackson testified on Day 2 of his trial for murdering South Florence football star DyQuayvon Dickens in April 2022—she said that on a spring break trip to Myrtle Beach they heard more than 20 shots fired before a police stop at a gas station.

University of South Carolina professor Dr. Shaun Owens is researching challenges with aging-in-place and technology use among rural, low-income African Americans to help reduce Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and is partnering with local groups such as the Orangeburg Senior Helping Center—he is asking affected adults and their care partners to complete surveys and a 45-minute interview with a $100 gift card offered for participation.

On April 10, local health departments will offer free STD and HIV testing for National Youth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day during STI Awareness Week in the state.

The Department of Public Health is targeting youth at risk and urges them to call the hotline (1-800-322-2437) for a testing location, as early detection can help prevent serious infections (including infertility and birth defects).

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.

Sesame Street Live! Say Hello

2-3:30 p.m. — Florence Center — Ticket prices vary — Sing, dance, and play with your favorite Sesame Street characters in this family-friendly live show.

HQ Origami Tulip Craft for Adults

5:30-6:30 p.m. — Florence County Library System — Free entry — Craft colorful origami tulips and enhance your folding skills.