Good morning, Florence.

People across the Grand Strand and Pee Dee are gathering today to remember those lost on September 11 with events that include stair climbs, memorial ceremonies, and park clean-ups—beginning as early as 8 a.m. Local fire departments and community groups are organizing the tribute events in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, Bennettsville, and Marion.

Florence city councilman Chaquez McCall said he is fed up with political opponents blocking affordable housing projects in North Florence—he noted that working with the Housing Authority will soon bring much-needed safe homes to low-income families and revitalize the community.

The Clark family is fighting a request by Regency Hospital to gain guardianship over 77-year-old James Clark, who has been at the hospital in Florence since a January cardiac arrest.

Helen Clark and her adult children say they will file a petition in Florence County Probate Court to keep him close—citing long travel distances and the need for familiar care.

The McLeod Health Foundation received two grants from The Duke Endowment totaling $1,145,000 to boost its Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program at rural hospitals and support staff for a new pediatric behavioral health crisis stabilization unit at McLeod Children’s Hospital.

The funding will let nurses get trained and use new tools for remote exams—one of the few units made especially for kids in the Carolinas.

Carolina Food Truck Festival

12-9 p.m. — ECA Fairgrounds — From $17.85 — Experience a variety of delicious eats from the best food trucks in the Carolinas.

Nikolai Oskolkov Gallery Opening

5:30-6:30 p.m. — Florence County Library System — Free entry — Celebrate the opening of a captivating exhibit featuring the colorful works of artist Nikolai Oskolkov, complete with refreshments and live music.

Pee Dee IceCats vs. Columbus River Dragons

7:15-9:15 p.m. — Florence Center — Tickets start at $56 — Witness an electrifying ice hockey showdown in Florence, SC.