Good morning, Florence.

Florence police arrested Anthony Woods on Wednesday after he is accused of holding a woman at gunpoint and forcing her to perform unwanted acts at the Hampton Inn and Suites on West Radio Drive (officers say an argument led him to choke her) and he now faces charges including kidnapping and first-degree criminal sexual conduct.

Attorneys discussed admissible evidence and testimony at a Thursday hearing for the civil lawsuit tied to the 2023 Camp Swamp Road shooting that took Scott Spivey's life—lawyers agreed to subpoena three 911 callers while a judge released a hair sample under protective order.

Sherman Carmichael, a Johnsonville resident, has published Forgotten Tales of South Carolina—a book that gathers over 100 ghost and paranormal stories from coastal and Pee Dee areas, including a local tale from Persimmon Ford Rd. He plans to research more local legends for a second book in the future.

Sopakco will expand its Mullins facility with an $8.89 million remodel to upgrade food processing and packaging areas in Marion County—while Andrews Fabricators of Kingstree Inc. plans a $3 million expansion that adds 30,000 square feet and 40 new jobs in Williamsburg County, set to start in spring.

Florence School District 3 announced its search for a new superintendent by inviting community input via a survey open until Aug.

10 at 3 p.m.+ a committee of community stakeholders will help review applications to choose a leader who will keep students college and career-ready. Applications for the superintendent role must be submitted by 12 p.m. on Jan. 1.

The City of Florence announced that the intersection of South Coit Street and West Cedar Street will be closed from July 14 through July 25 for installing new stormwater pipes and catch basins—drivers should follow posted detours to avoid delays.

The 5th Annual Royal Princess Ball

1-5 p.m. — Homewood Suites by Hilton Florence — Tickets required for children — Experience a magical day filled with enchantment, dancing, and princesses.