Good morning, Florence.

Manna House, Florence’s soup kitchen, saw a 12% increase in visitors after free bus service began on Aug.

11 and is hosting its Singing for Suppers fundraiser on Sept. 25 to raise needed funds. The event — which features a new celebrity singer category with local officials — aims to double last year’s $30,000 and cover three months of operating costs.

Florence County is applying for a $500,000 grant to demolish the former Florence County School District 4 school—county officials say demolition will begin if the grant is approved.

Battalion Chief John Mays of the West Florence Fire Department earned the South Carolina Chief Fire Officer designation from the South Carolina State Association of Fire Chiefs.

He completed a 40-hour training module on safety protocols — and he is now attending a fire conference in Myrtle Beach, where he will share his new knowledge with his team when he returns.

Florence County granted a tax incentive to Santee Electric to help upgrade its utility infrastructure for a new industrial park—Santee Electric plans to invest $11.5 million over the next five years in these improvements.

Annasea Foods Group recalled 3,300 pounds of Kirkland Signature Ahi Tuna Wasabi Poke sold at Costco’s deli section after tests showed some of the product might contain a listeria outbreak—food sold in several states including South Carolina is affected.

Consumers are urged to dispose of the product or return it for a refund—prompt action is recommended.

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.

Foodees Food and Culture Festival

1-7 p.m. — Magnolia Mall — Free entry — Experience a spooktacular food truck festival with gourmet bites and family-friendly crafts in Florence.