Good morning, Florence.

Florence After 5 returns today for its 16th season downtown with live music from Chris Taylor and the Rumor at an award-winning block party.

South Carolina named its 2027 Teacher of the Year Thursday at the Governor’s Mansion, with State Superintendent Ellen Weaver announcing the winner at 12:30 p.m. (Gov. Henry McMaster attended) and hosting a 3 p.m. press conference that featured finalists including Florence’s Meagan Johnson.

Carver Elementary School was named a Palmetto’s Finest award winner on Thursday, April 23, marking Florence 1 Schools' fourth consecutive honor after wins by South Florence High, Delmae Heights Elementary, and John W.

Moore Middle School.

Florence City and County officials are working to restore Jeffries Creek after a sewage overflow contaminated the waterway and caused a strong odor — they plan to add docks and launch pads while forming a board to secure state and federal funding.

State senators are considering an amendment that would temporarily suspend the liquor liability insurance requirement for bars+ restaurants.

The proposed measure could ease operating costs for local establishments as lawmakers debate the change in upcoming sessions.

McLeod Health will open its new outpatient pharmacy on its Florence campus Sunday.

It will operate in the former emergency department facility (converted for pharmacy use).

The Pee Dee Icecats lost to the Columbus River Dragons on Wednesday night in the first game of round two of the FPHL playoffs at their home arena.

Small Business Success Summit

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Honda of South Carolina Manufacturing — Free entry — Equip yourself with tools and resources to grow your small business in the vibrant community of Florence.