Florence’s Carolina Theatre To Get $2 Million For Restoration

The City of Florence and state of South Carolina are partnering to fund the restoration of the city’s historical Carolina Theatre downtown.

The state is allocating $2 million in its budget, which that went into effect July 1. The city also is funding $2 million.

The restoration is expected to be completed the fall of 2025, Moore said. The city plans for it to be a mixed-use space, for events like weddings, conferences and shows.

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Florence County Renames Judicial Center After Prominent Local Leader

Local leaders said goodbye to the Florence County Judicial Center. From now on, it’ll be known as the James T. Schofield Florence County Judicial Center.
Florence County Council members unanimously approved the name change in an emotional meeting honoring Schofield, the late County Council member.

Schofield was a longtime leader on the council whose influence can be seen across the county. He died four years ago on July 18, the same day as the meeting honoring him.

“I feel immensely proud and honored that the Judicial Center is being renamed after my father. It is a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to public service and his significant contributions to the community,” William Schofield said in a written statement.

More on this story from the Post & Courier, click here.

City Receives Economic Development Award

The City of Florence was awarded the Joseph P. Riley Jr Award for Economic Development for its development of sports tourism at the annual Municipal Association of South Carolina meeting on last Friday.

HopeHealth Welcomes New Provider

HopeHealth welcomes Wilhelmenia Patterson, PA-C, a physician assistant serving patients of HopeHealth on Palmetto Street.

She graduated from Francis Marion University in Florence, South Carolina, with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies.

Her clinical interests are preventive care, chronic disease management, and behavioral health. She is a member of the South Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants and serves as the Diversity Committee Chair.

NASCAR Hauler Showcase & Parade Returns August 30

Kick off race weekend with the NASCAR Hauler Showcase & Parade! Mark your calendar for Friday, August 30th. Hauler Showcase runs from 4:00 – 5:30 PM at Florence Darlington Technical College.  Parade begins at 6:00 PM.

That Is Enough Health & Wellness Expo

Join the That is Enough Health and Wellness Expo on Saturday August 10th at 1951 Pisgah Rd rom 10am-4pm. Discover the latest trends in health and wellness from experts in the field from fitness and nutrition to mental health.

Explore a variety of exhibitors offering products and services to help you live your best life. Attend workshops and seminars to gain valuable insights and tips for a healthier lifestyle.

Don’t miss this opportunity to prioritize your health and wellness!

To view the full flyer, click here.

2024 Tax Free Weekend Set For August 2 – 4

The South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) reminds shoppers that computers, clothes, school supplies, and a variety of other school-year essentials can be purchased without paying Sales Tax during South Carolina’s annual 72-hour Tax Free Weekend, starting August 2.

“As inflation continues to drain many wallets, this year’s Tax Free Weekend offers some relief for weary families,” said SCDOR Director Hartley Powell. “Every shopper saves money during this tax holiday, particularly on back-to-school essentials.

For more information, click here.

Lucky Dog Animal Rescue Featured On ChamberLink Radio

Morgan Soulantikas, Community Outreach for Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, was the Florence Chamber’s guest this past weekend on ChamberLink Radio talking about the great things Lucky Dog does and how they help strays find their forever homes. We encourage you to tune-in every Sunday from 12:00-12:30pm on LIVE 95.3FM in Florence, SC.

This program is brought to you by the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce.

FMU’s School Of Business To Offer Certificate In Negotiations and Conflict Resolution

FMU’s School of Business is offering a Certificate in Negotiations and Conflict Resolutions. This five-part program focuses on strategic thinking, bargaining skills, cross-cultural negotiation, workplace communications and conflict resolutions, listening skills and more. For more information or to register, contact Tracy McClam at 843-661-1420.

To view the full flyer, click here.

Hope Center Ministries Holds Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Traci Nichols along with Casea Love, Sue Ann Frazier and Ashley Maynard Kelly from Hope Center Ministries and Chamber Ambassadors cut their ribbon joining the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce and announcing their presence in Florence.

Hope Center Ministries, started in 2007 in Waverly, TN, is a faith-based addiction recovery program headquartered out of Oklahoma City, OK. They provide a Christ-centric approach to recovery that allows addicts and their families to become fully devoted followers of Christ in a supportive, residential environment. They foster a strong foundation of faith in their residents, supported by their community and church partners, with a focus on family at every step in the recovery journey. Through deep study of scripture, vocational training opportunities, and weekly 12-step study work through Celebrate Recovery. They create a pathway for individuals to achieve not just sobriety but lasting recovery from their hurts, habits, and hang-ups.

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