Anderson Brothers Bank Breaks Ground on New Full-Service Branch in Sumter

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Anderson Brothers Bank proudly celebrated the groundbreaking of its newest full-service branch in Sumter, South Carolina, marking another milestone in the bank’s continued growth across the state.

The ceremony took place at the future site of the branch, located at 2831 Broad Street in Sumter. The event brought together state and local dignitaries, community leaders, business representatives, and members of the Sumter Chamber of Commerce.

The new 5,164-square-foot full-service branch will further support Anderson Brothers Bank’s mission to serve local families, support small businesses, and contribute to the economic growth of the Sumter community.

To read the full press release, click here.

Last Week Was Big For SC Small Business

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Last week was one of the most productive of the legislative sessions this year for our small business community, with several top priorities making big progress.

Early last week, SCMC led 33 business organizations in calling for the SC House to pass the SCDOT Modernization bill, which will help speed up road projects by years. Despite some opposition, the bill passed unanimously. The Florence Chamber signed on in support of that Modernization bill.

It was a week to remember for our small business community on Tuesday when the Small Business Regulatory Freedom Act (H.3021) and the Small Business Tax Cut of 2026 (H.5006) both advanced through Senate committees.

Florence Regional Airport Talks Expansions

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The Florence Regional Airport announced expansion plans at an economic development luncheon, including adding another airline as the area continues to grow.

The expansions are part of the Florence Regional Airport’s ten-year strategic plan to revitalize the airport and boost economic growth in the Pee Dee.

To read the full story, click here.

Foster Care Clothing Closet to Host BBQ Fundraiser

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It’s FCCC BBQ Time!!!  Mark your calendars, gather orders, and please send in those BBQ forms!

Tuesday, May 12th, 11am-2pm @ Roger’s BBQ! LOCAL deliveries for 7 or more! (10:30 school deliveries available) Drive-Thru Also Available!

Menu: Roger’s BBQ, Coleslaw, Rice & Red Gravy, Sweet Potato Souffle, Hushpuppies, and Banana Pudding

We want to THANK YOU ALL for the support you have given us over the years at the Foster Care Clothing Closet as we provide support to the foster families that open their hearts and homes to foster children needing to feel safe, valued, and a sense of belonging!

For more information, click here.

Tiny Steps Foundation Cuts Ribbon on Chamber Membership

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Shanequa Joe of Tiny Steps Foundation along with Chamber Ambassadors cuts her ribbon joining the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce.

Tiny Steps Foundation is tackling a hidden but critical issue in the Pee Dee, Diaper Insecurity and its rippling effect on our workforce, public health, and early childhood development.

When families don’t have diapers, parents miss work because childcare centers require them. Health risks increase. Early learning is disrupted before it even begins. Tiny Steps is stepping in with a no-barrier solution that keeps families moving forward.

Each month, Tiny Steps serves 200 plus families across Florence, Darlington, Marion, Dillon, Chesterfield, Williamsburg, and Marlboro counties, providing essential diapering supplies to those who need them.

To read the full story, click here.

2026 Best & Brightest 35 and Under Nominations Extended Deadline May 7th

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Integrated Media Publishing’s Best and Brightest honors young professionals age 35 and under who are making a difference in their workplace and community. Recipients will be honored at an event in September and featured in the September issues of B2B: Pee Dee Business Magazine, Greenville Business Magazine, Columbia Business Monthly, Charleston Business Magazine and the B2B:Grand Strand Business Magazine.

Deadline: May 7th Please fill out this form in detail — judges use it to score work impact and community involvement. Questions? Email loric@indexx.com.

Go Pee Dee IceCats; On to Binghamton

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The Pee Dee IceCats are currently competing in the 2026 FPHL Commissioner’s Cup Finals against the Binghamton Black Bears, with the series tied 1-1 after a 5-2 win in Game 1 and a 2-1 loss in Game 2. The IceCats secured their spot in the finals after advancing through the Continental Divisional Playoffs in their inaugural season here in Florence with record crowds.

The series now shifts to Binghamton for Games Three, Four and Five (if nec.) next weekend, staring on Friday. Complete broadcast coverage is available on the IceCats Broadcast Network on Cumulus Radio Stations in South Carolina and the IceCats YouTube channel @PeeDeeIceCats.

For more information, click here.

SCORE: Start-Up Business Financial Plan Workshop

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This Live Online Workshop will help you in developing a full understanding of the profitability of your business concept. You will learn which costs and expenses need to be included in your Profit/Loss calculations.

This session will help you to forecast the Cash Flow of your enterprise. Maintaining positive cash flow is the key fundamental to ensuring the longevity of your company.

You will be shown how the basic financial elements tie together:

  • Income Statement – Profit and Loss
  • Balance Sheet – Assets and Liabilities
  • Cash Flow
  • Sales Forecast

The event will be held on May 8, 2026, starting at 10:00am EDT. It is about a two-hour program. The cost of participation is $10. To register for this small business workshop, click here.

Senior Citizens Association Featured on ChamberLink Radio

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Linda Mitchell Johnson, Executive Director and Carrington Wingard, Board Member at the Senior Citizens Association were the Florence Chamber’s guests this past weekend talking about the upcoming luncheon to support Meals on Wheels and other events happening at the Senior Citizens Association.

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, MUSC Health Florence Medical Center and LIVE 95.3FM.

Looking for past ChamberLink Radio Show interviews? Click here:

https://www.flochamber.com/events-programs/podcasts/

Another Circle K Convenience Store Opens In Florence

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Did you know that a national brand convenience store / gas station has opened its’ third location here in Florence?

The new Circle K convenience store is located at 220 N. Cashua Drive on the corner of West Darlington Street.

Circle K’s success in the convenience retailing industry spans more than 60 years with roots trace back to 1951 when Fred Hervey purchased three Kay’s Food Stores in El Paso, Texas.

To learn more about Circle K, click here.