This Underrated South Carolina City Is A Haven For Art Lovers

Southern Living talks about there’s a lot more going on in Florence, South Carolina than most think, including its surprisingly vibrant arts scene.

Florence’s art offerings rival comparably sized cities (there are currently about 40,000 people), as well as larger metro areas. Hear the Florence Symphony Orchestra perform, stroll past murals and sculptures throughout downtown, or take in some local theater.

To read the full story, click here.

United Way of Florence County Launches ‘Barriers to Employment’ Initiative

A program now in place at United Way of Florence County will provide assistance to individuals who have documented job offers but need temporary support to begin working. The program, Barriers to Employment, will assist with initial or unexpected expenses such as child care, transportation, work equipment, housing and initial certifications, among a number of others.

United Way of Florence County President Cameron Packett said the program was launched with a generous donation from Mike Reichenbach and Charisse Reichenbach with the goal of helping individuals move into stable, well-paying jobs and promoting workforce development.

“The expenses associated with starting a new job—before the steady paycheck begins—can be prohibitive for many who have the opportunity and want to work,” Campbell said. “We hope area businesses will refer any new employees who could use initial help to our office.”

To read the full press release, click here.

Achievement Week Founder’s Awards Ceremony

On Sunday, November 17, 2024, the Chi Iota Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is excited to welcome The Honorable Brother Representative James E. Clyburn as the keynote speaker for our Achievement Week Founder’s Awards Ceremony.

The event will take place at the SHEREC (Strive Hard Educational, Recreational and Enrichment Center) located at 312 S Ravenel Street, Florence, SC 29506 beginning at 6:00 PM.  Tickets are $65 per person and Tables are available for $700 (Seats 8 and includes a Half-Page Ad in our digital souvenir journal).

For more information, to sponsor, or to purchase tickets, contact us at 843-992-6349 or 843-858-3766, visit the website or email chiiota.oppf@gmail.com

 

DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

Join the City of Florence Police Department for DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day!

When: Saturday, October 26, 10 AM – 2 PM

Where: 230 N Beltline Dr., Florence, SC 29501 (Walmart)

Clean out your medicine cabinets and safely dispose of unneeded prescription drugs.

It’s FREE and ANONYMOUS!

Remember, syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs will not be accepted. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.

For more info and to find a collection site near you, visit www.DEATakeBack.com or contact Lt. Kendrick Spears at 843-665-3191.

Spread the word and let’s make a difference!

Kickin’ Chicken Wing & Chili Fest – October 18th

The Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce’s annual Kickin’ Chicken Wing and Chili Festival is set for Friday, Oct. 18 in the 100 block of South Dargan Street from 5 to 9 p.m.

There are still a couple of cooker openings for individuals to compete in the wings and chili contest. Contact the Chamber if you want to share your wing or chili cooking ability.

The festival attendees will be entertained with live music by The Inland Band, a Country & Rock group from Florence. Winners of the wings and chili cook-off will be announced at 8:45 p.m.

Young Professionals Of Florence Prepare To Host Networking Event

Come ready to learn some networking tips and etiquette with presentations provided by FMU’s School of Business. You will have the opportunity to tour the new School of Business building at Francis Marion University! Be sure to stick around for some food, drinks and fellowship to follow. Join us on Thursday, October 17th from 5:30 – 7:00 PM. You won’t want to miss this!

To see the full flyer, click here.

The Chamber’s Fall Golf Classic Held Last Thursday

Last Thursday, the Greater Florence Chamber held its 2024 Fall Golf Classic at The Traces Golf Club, presented by Field Fastener. Additional support was provided by Pepsi of Florence, Asset Technology Group, Bank of Clarendon, and TD Bank.

120 golfers enjoyed the day starting with a great lunch served in the club house by Pee Dee Catering. Throughout the day the golfers enjoyed 16 different hospitality tee box sponsors that served wings, fried bologna, boiled peanuts, snacks, beverages, beer, specialty drinks, fun prizes and other golf giveaways.

To see more photos from the day, click here.

The SC Chamber Grassroots Legislative Agenda Luncheon Held Last Wednesday

The Greater Florence and Hartsville Chambers of Commerce joined forces again this year to present the South Carolina Chambers Grassroots Tour Legislative Review. This year the luncheon was held on Wednesday, October 2, at the Darlington Raceway Media Center.

The interactive luncheon offers area businesses and chamber members an opportunity to hear about current legislation that impacts local business and industries. Is also allows for feedback that helps shape the State Chamber’s 2025 Competitiveness Agenda and set the Chamber’s priorities for the next legislative session in Columbia.

Those attending also had the chance to meet the new SC Chamber President & CEO, Mike Brenan.

Paddle On Black Creek Happening This Weekend

On Saturday, October 12, 2024, Pee Dee Land Trust invites you to experience the beauty of Black Creek with a scenic paddle hosted at The Riparian.

This event offers two launch times at 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM, giving you the flexibility to choose the time that best fits your schedule. The paddle will last approximately 1.5 hours, offering a guided tour led by the experienced team at Naturally Outdoors. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, this adventure promises to be a memorable way to enjoy the cooler weather and stunning fall scenery.

Your registration includes all necessary equipment—kayak, PFD (Personal Flotation Device), and whistle—as well as lunch, which will be served between the paddles from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

For more information, click here.

McLeod Health Featured On ChamberLink Radio

Will McLeod, CEO of McLeod Regional Medical Center was the Florence Chamber’s guest this past weekend sharing key information on area health care needs and McLeod Regional Medical Center’s commitment to servicing the region.  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.

You can review past ChamberLink Radio Show interviews by clicking https://www.flochamber.com/events-programs/podcasts/