Good morning, Florence.

South Carolina held its 28th Annual Silent Witness Ceremony on Oct.

7 to honor domestic violence victims from the Grand Strand—Pee Dee, where victims from Florence, Marion, and Horry counties were recognized and Attorney General Alan Wilson called for stronger justice and prevention efforts.

This Saturday, Pee Dee Equality will host its second annual Pride in the Pee Dee event at the City Center Market—downtown Florence.

South Carolina public school librarians and students filed a lawsuit Tuesday asking a federal court to block enforcement of the state’s book-banning rule—Regulation 43-170—that led to the removal or restriction of 22 books and restrictions on classroom libraries.

The suit challenges the censorship measures that limit access to educational resources and free speech in schools.

The Lake City council met Tuesday night and voted not to file for bankruptcy when the city faced a cash shortage from mismanaged funds that led to job cuts and may bring higher water bills.

Interim city administrator Steven Thompson said the recovery plan—selling city-owned property, asking for loans, and withdrawing nearly $130,000 from a local investment pool—will help the city meet payroll this week.

Lake City faces trouble making payroll and may file for Chapter 9 bankruptcy—interim administrator Steven Thompson said the city will cut spending, lay off workers and raise water and sewer rates.

A special City Council meeting is held tonight to discuss a $600,000 county loan and further cuts to balance its finances.

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.

Pecan Festival

11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. — Florence Downtown Development Corp. — Free entry — Enjoy family-friendly activities like coloring pages and puzzles at the library's tent.