Good morning, Florence.

The Lowcountry Food Bank installed 28 food lockers at North Strand Helping Hands so neighbors can order and pick up free healthy food outside regular hours—these lockers use order ahead software and have lights and cameras for safe access.

Dave’s Hot Chicken is set to open tomorrow at 1923 W.

Palmetto St.—bringing Nashville-style hot chicken, tenders, sliders, wings and meat-free options with a range of spice levels including a 'Reaper' option—and offers loaded fries, mac and cheese, slaw and slushers while operating from 10:30 a.m. until midnight Monday-Thursday and 2 a.m. Friday-Sunday with local staff.

Florence-Darlington Technical College is expanding its accelerated EMT program to the Mullins and Hartsville campuses in the Pee Dee region.

Classes will begin on Aug. 18 in Mullins and on Aug. 25 in Hartsville—preparing students to take the National Registry EMT Exam.

Carol Hill, a retired principal from Hannah-Pamplico High School, received the 2025 SCASA Lifetime Achievement Award today for her 36 years of service in education and leadership in Florence County—she held roles as teacher, coach, principal, and director that shaped local schools.

Residents along Coit and West Cedar streets have faced flooding problems for nearly 40 years, and Becky Crawford said drainage work like installing larger pipes and catch basins is now underway.

City leaders approved a 50-cent water bill increase three years ago to build a $7 million repair fund—$14 million in grants also helped start the work.