The Pee Dee’s Growing Hospitality Industry And Food Scene

Last week WBTW did a feature about the Pee Dee region becoming quite the food destination, with new developments growing the hospitality industry and recent events gaining national exposure in both Florence and Darlington.

So, what’s feeding the industry? Click the here to find out more.

Pee Dee Land Trust Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Pee Dee Land Trust is celebrating our 25th anniversary, and we couldn’t have done it without you! To celebrate and show our gratitude, we’re inviting you to join us Saturday, May 10th at Riverbend on the Lynches River in Johnsonville.

We will have a fun filled day starting with a paddle on the beautiful Lynches Rivers. River Rats Outfitters will pick up paddlers at 10:00am at Riverbend and transport them to put in up river. The majority of the 1.5 mile paddle will take you by the picturesque Riverbend Property, permanently protected by Austin Gilbert in partnership with PDLT.

We plan to have activities for all ages from 11:00am until 2:00pm with an old-fashioned Pig Pickin’ starting at noon.

For more information, click here.

Duke Energy Foundation Support Building Bridges Diversity And Leadership Programs

Mindy Taylor, Director Government & Community Relations at Duke Energy, presented a check from the Duke Energy Foundation to support Building Bridges Diversity and Leadership programs. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Duke Energy for their continued support of inclusive businesses and communities.

FSO Rocks is Back – May 22

FSO Rocks is back, bringing high-energy classic rock to the stage! This electrifying concert stars Joel Hoekstra, renowned guitarist for Cher, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and Whitesnake. Joining him are powerhouse vocalists Fran Coleman, Elena Flores, Cole Davis, and Eric Thompson. Expect songs from Steely Dan, Spencer Davis Group, The Who, Moody Blues, The Eagles, ELO, Toto and many more.

Want the ultimate rockstar experience? VIP tickets include an exclusive pre-concert party at the Waters Building, 135 S. Dargan St., includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and drinks provided by Victors. The FSO Rocks Concert is presented by McLeod Health with support from Synergi Partners. Pepsi of Florence, Ensemble Wealth Planning & Carolina Bank.

For more information, click here.

HopeHealth Introduces New Board Members

The HopeHealth Board of Directors announced the appointment of new officers and four new members for 2025-2026. Joining the board are Theresa Davis, Teresa Anderson, Elaine Morehead, and Janice Still.

Board members are selected for their expertise in community affairs, local government, business development, social work, and other philanthropic interests. Additionally, in keeping with the Federally Qualified Health Center requirement, a majority of directors utilize HopeHealth for their health care needs.

To read the full press release, click here.

McLeod Health Featured On ChamberLink Radio

Dr. Shawn Conwell, Medical Director of Breast & Women’s Imaging at McLeod Health, was the Florence Chamber’s guest this past weekend talking about the latest in women’s breast health and diagnostics.

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.

Looking for past ChamberLink Radio Show interviews? Click here:

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

Integrative Health Solutions Hosts Business After Hours

The Florence Chamber held a Business After Hours event this week hosted by Integrative Health Solutions at 505 West Palmetto St. Many local business representatives attended the gathering where Dr. Derek Oldenkamp, Doctor of Chiropractic, author, lecturer, and philanthropist and Dr. Kristin Hieshetter, Doctor of Chiropractic, metabolic biochemist, and low-level laser specialist shared how Integrative Health engages their clients in health goals and practices. Everyone enjoyed the conversations while having great food and drinks.

To see more photos from the event, click here.

SPCCU’s Drive Now, Pay Later Promotion

Darlington, Florence, Chesterfield, & Marlboro Counties, SC – SPC Credit Union is thrilled to announce a special auto loan promotion designed to put you behind the wheel of your dream car this summer. Whether you’re planning a road trip or just looking for a reliable new ride, our offer is the perfect opportunity to secure a new or pre-owned vehicle.

Limited Time Offer: Act Now! This exciting promotion runs from April 1 to June 30. With vehicles selling quickly, now’s the time to make your dream car a reality. Choose from a variety of options, whether you’re interested in a sleek sedan, a spacious SUV, or a powerful truck. Enjoy a 90-day no-payment period* to plan your finances and manage other expenses.

For more information, click here.

Florence Center FPHL Hockey Team Announcement

The Florence Center announced Last Wednesday at a press conference that a new professional hockey team will be coming to the Pee Dee.

Parker Moskal, managing ownership partner of the Monroe (La.) Moccasins, and new owner of the new Pee Dee hockey team, said hockey is now back to the Florence Center.

The new professional hockey team begins playing in October in the Federal Prospects Hockey League.

Tickets are now on sale at the Florence Center box office.

For more information, click here.

GSSM Students Raise $3,220 For Hartsville’s Night To Shine Through Annual 5K

Students at the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics (GSSM) recently donated $3,220 in proceeds from the school’s annual 5K Race for Mental Health Awareness to support Hartsville’s 2026 Night to Shine, a prom night experience for people with special needs.

Held on Feb. 15, the race drew 136 registered participants and was hosted by GSSM’s student organization Fun Without Drugs (FWD). In addition to planning the race, nine GSSM students volunteered as “Buddies” during the 2025 Night to Shine event on Feb. 7, providing one-on-one support and celebration for attendees throughout the evening.

To read the full story, click here.