Good morning, Florence.

More than 85,000 bags of shrimp sold at stores owned by Kroger were recalled due to possible unsanitary conditions that may have led to cesium 137 contamination.

The recall covers Kroger Raw Colossal EZ Peel Shrimp, Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail Off Shrimp, and AquaStar Raw Peeled Tail On Shrimp Skewers sold between June 12 and September 17 — consumers should return the product for a refund or discard it.

The Carolina Theatre in downtown Florence is on track to reopen in Spring 2026—restoration work nears completion, promising a refreshed local venue.

South Carolina’s Public Service Commission is holding public hearings on Duke Energy’s planned 15.1 percent rate increase for residential and small business customers—residents can share their comments at these sessions.

Carla Eaddy, a Florence One Schools board member, was exonerated today when a three-year-old drug charge was dismissed because a key witness was missing—officials said the state could not meet its burden of proof without that testimony.

Eaddy said her steadfast faith and belief in her innocence helped her stay strong during the legal process.

Manatees are large marine animals that visit the Lowcountry and Lake Marion when waters are warm to feed on plants, officials said.

Michelle Pate from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources explained today that these sea cows have unique traits—like having toenails and limited head movement—and are tracked with satellite tags to help avoid boat strikes.

The SC Attorney General’s Office is announcing grants for organizations that serve crime victims this week.

In Florence, nine grants totaling over $2.7 million will be given to local agencies including McLeod Regional Medical Center and the Pee Dee Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Assault.

Florence 1 Schools received a final court order that dismissed Palmetto Youth Academy’s appeal of its charter non-renewal because of issues with teacher certification, academic performance and financial irregularities—this ruling confirms the board’s decision and orders asset transfers and a judgment to cover additional costs.

The state's top high school senior football players from Grand Strand and Pee Dee were named to the 2025 Touchstone Energy Bowl roster set to play on December 13 at Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium in Myrtle Beach—at halftime, the Mr. Football Award will be presented.

The roster features players from local areas such as South Florence and Carolina Forest, highlighting the rising talent across the state.

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.