The Darlington Lions Club just completed eye tests of all the schools in Darlington County, including roughly 2,000 students in Darlington! Beth Hubbard started the project two years ago, pre-COVID, and the Lions provided the eye exams at no charge to students. For those unable to afford needed eyeglasses, the Lions assisted filing the paperwork with Medicaid to get those children the glasses they needed. Great job Lions!

The SC Homeowner Rescue Program (SC HRP) is a federally funded program established to provide financial assistance to eligible homeowners experiencing pandemic-related financial hardship beginning after January 21, 2020. The program begins March 21, 2022, and ends September 30, 2026. For assistance with your application, call 803-702-5222 or 1-833-405-3080. DOWNLOAD FLYER.

SC Stay Plus: Renters who have moved from their home or incurred other unexpected housing fees or expenses will be eligible for support with the following costs: late fees, court costs, moving costs, hotel expenses, or move-in costs. To apply, or to update a current SC Stay Plus application, call our call center at 803-336-3420, toll free at 1-800-476-0412, or email scstayplus@schousing.com. DOWNLOAD FLYER.

First Baptist Church invites all children in grade 3K to grade 5 to its Vacation Bible School, Spark Studios: Created in Christ, Designed for God's Purpose, Ephesians 2:10, from 6 to 8 p.m. June 12-16 at the church, 216 S. Main St., Darlington.

Dominion Church Make Waves Vacation Bible School will be from 6 to 9 p.m. June 20-24 at the church, 1030 Pearl St., Darlington.

The Annual DCIT FFA Plant Sale will run through May 12 or until everything is sold. Spring Break is April 15-24 so unless you make an appointment, the greenhouse will not be open during that week.

The King is Coming! Darlington Presbyterian Church will host Vacation Bible School from 9 a.m. to noon July 18-21 at the church, 315 Pearl St., Darlington. Rising 5k-5th graders are invited for Bible Lessons, Snacks, Games, Arts & Crafts and More! Register at the church office by calling 843-393-4851 or online at http://bit.ly/dpcvbs22.

St. John's High School Class of 1972 will hold its 50th Reunion from 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturday, July 23, at The Grand Old Post Office, 201 Pearl St. Members of the SJHS Classes of 1970, 1971, 1973, and 1974 are invited to join the event. Hors d'oeuvres, cash bar, and music. Tickets are $25 each before July 1 and $30 each after that. Make checks payable to St. John's Class of 1972. Info: Alexander Cohen, 18 Nez Perce St., Darlington, SC 29532.

The Mayo High School Alumni Association plans its Homecoming Celebration for October 7-9. On Friday, Oct. 7, Blazers, Blue Jeans & High Heels will be a homecoming dance at SiMT from 7 to 11:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30. On Saturday, Oct. 8, Alumni Parade will be held at 10 a.m. at the BA Gary Educational Complex with a new route. Line up at 8:30. Entry fee: $10. Later that day, the Tailgate Party will be from 5 to 9 p.m. at Virgil Wells Stadium. Children ages 16 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. To wrap up the weekend, on Sunday, Oct. 9, there will be a worship service at 10:30 a.m. at A.W. Stanley Gym. Tickets for events go on sale July 1. Info: mhsaa1889@gmail.com

Today

The Black Creek Arts Center will host the Darlington County Photography Club at 6:30 p.m. Monday, May 2, and on the first Monday of every month at 116 W. College Ave., Hartsville.

Darlington County Council meets at 6 p.m. Monday, May 2, and on the first Monday of the month at Courthouse Annex/EMS Building, 1625 Harry Byrd Highway, Darlington. Due to COVID-19, in-person access is restricted. Watch meetings online at

City of Darlington Historic Landmarks Commission meets at 5:30 p.m. Monday, May 2, at City Hall, 400 Pearl St. Dates for 2022 are Aug. 1 and Nov. 7. Info: rock@cityofdarlington.com

The Knitting & Crochet Club of Lamar will meet at 4 p.m. on Mondays at the Lamar Library, 103 E. Main St., Lamar. Info: 843-326-552

Monday Night is Spaghetti Night at Joe's Grill, 306 Russell St., Darlington. Info: 843-944-0626

Pickle Ball at Darlington Country Club, 125 Country Club Road, Darlington, will be held at 7 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays.

Monday night cornhole tournament will be held weekly beginning at 7 p.m. Mondays at the Darlington Moose Lodge, 1056 N. Governor Williams Hwy., Darlington. Anyone can play, all skill levels welcome. Entry fee: $20 with guaranteed minimum of four games. Cash prizes. Round Robin Switcholio Format: 4 rounds, different partner each round. Ranked by wins and points to lead into a playoff tournament. Lodge membership is not required for players. However, if you plan on hanging out at the bar before/after or outside of tournament times, please sign up. It's only $52 a year.

Multiverse Gifts & Games will hold Dungeons & Dragons Ladies Night at 6:30 p.m. every other Monday through May 30, at 326 S. Fifth St., Hartsville. New players and experienced players welcome.

Alcoholics Anonymous meets weekly at 8 p.m. Monday nights at Trinity United Methodist Church in Darlington. Use the Orange Street entrance. Info: 843-395-6897

Tuesday

St. Matthew's Church will hold Women's Bible Study at 7 a.m. on Tuesday live from the Purple Fish. Contact Janet Stoda via Janet@saintmatthews.us for study materials.

Hartsville Memorial Library has Pre-School Story Time at 10 a.m. every Tuesday at the library, 147 W. College Ave., Hartsville. Reading, singing, and play!

The Rotary Club of Hartsville meets at 1 p.m. Tuesdays at Pam's Restaurant, 1009 W. Bobo Newsome Hwy., Hartsville.

Each Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., Darlington Country Club will hold 9-hole scramble. $10 per player goes into the pot for prize money. 843-393-0236

Darlington City Council: 6:30 p.m. on May 3 and on the first Tuesday of the month except where noted (*). Dates for 2022 are Jan. 4, Feb. 8*, March 1, April 5, May 3, June 7, July 12*, Aug. 2, Sept. 6, Oct. 4, Nov. 1, and Dec. 6. Due to COVID restrictions, there is limited seating in the courtroom with preference given to staff, council, and members of the media. Watch the meeting live at https://www.facebook.com/DarlingtonCityMeetingsLIVE. You can find the agenda posted online by noon Monday prior to the meeting at https://www.cityofdarlington.com/city-council-agendas-meeting-minutes/. Submit comments to council by noon Monday prior to the meeting to be read aloud during the meeting to rock@cityofdarlington.com or by mail anytime to City of Darlington Planning, P.O. Box 57, Darlington, SC 29540.

Darlington Area Recreation Walkers Challenge! The Optimistic Radiant Confident Active Seniors group will meet on the FIRST TUESDAY of each month. Any senior that walks 20 miles in a month at AW Stanley Gym or Harmon Baldwin Gym in Darlington. Info: 843-398-4030.

Joe's Grill celebrates Wing Night on Tuesday nights at 306 Russell St., Darlington. Dine-in only. Info: 843-944-0626

Wing specials, Drink Specials and Karaoke Every Tuesday Night at the Darlington Moose Lodge, 1056 N. Governor Williams Hwy., Darlington.

Join Tasha for a fun 5K run through Hartsville at 6 p.m. Tuesdays and share some tasty Wild Heart Brewing craft beer afterwards. The Wild Heart Athletics Social Run Club will meet at 6 p.m. weekly at Wild Heart Brewing, 317 Railroad Ave., Hartsville. The runs will be free, and participants can enjoy half-off pints afterwards. After making 10 runs, you can receive a free Wild Heart Athletics running tee.

Pickle Ball at Darlington Country Club, 125 Country Club Road, Darlington, will be held at 7 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays.

Open play for Badminton and Table Tennis from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays at Coach T.B. Thomas Sports Center, 701 W. Washington St., Hartsville. Two badminton courts and one table available for table tennis. Limited equipment available at front desk. $5 monthly pass to play.

Come study John 4:1-42 at the Woman at the Well Bible Study at 11 a.m. Tuesdays through May 17 at Trinity United Methodist Church, 126 Pearl St.

Kingdom Seekers Holiness Church will hold a Bible Study from 7 to 8:30 p.m. every Tuesday at 124 Jordan St., Darlington.

 

Wednesday

Darlington Raceway presents Track Laps for Charity from 6 to 8 p.m. May 4 for Darlington Shares. Cost is $20 donation. Enter through Gate 39A.

The S.C. Energy Office will hold a Solar and Clean Energy Fundamentals Workshop from 1 to 5 p.m. May 4-5 and from 1 to 5 p.m. May 11-12 online. The objective of this course is to review the basics, policy, rates, and procurement options for solar, storage, and electric vehicles. Cost: $15-$50. Register here.

St. Matthew's Church will hold a Men's Bible Study at 7 a.m. on Wednesdays at the Purple Fish Coffee Company, 104 W. Hampton St.

Sunrise Rotary Club of Hartsville meets every other Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. at the Greater Hartsville Chamber of Commerce Board Room, 214 N. Fifth St. The Rotary Club of Hartsville is a part of District 7770 of the Eastern South Carolina. (843) 229-2729 or hartsvillesunriserotary@gmail.com

Join Central Baptist Church Pastor Tim Coker each Wednesday at 9 a.m. for Flight Training, his mid-week Bible study, at https://cbcdarlington.com/.

Enjoy Wine Down Wednesdays at Chianti's Wings & Things, 124 Cashua St., Darlington, from 4 to 9 p.m. with wine and wing specials. (843) 944-0880

Test-N-Tune / N/T Grudge held every Wednesday night at Darlington Dragway, 2056 E. Bobo Newsome Hwy., Hartsville. Gates open at 5 p.m. Testing starts at 6 p.m. Spectator admission: $15. Testing Fee: $10. Info: 843-383-0008

 

Thursday

Join the YMCA of the Upper Pee Dee and Fellowship of Christian Athletes as we gather with community members and friends for a Community Prayer Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, May 4, to focus on healing on the National Day of Prayer at the YMCA, 111 E. Carolina Ave., Hartsville.

The Darlington County Historical Commission meets at 10 a.m. on May 5 and on the first Thursday of the month, excluding July and August, at the Historical Commission, 204 Hewitt St., Darlington. Info: 843-398-4710 or bgandy@darcosc.net.

Thursday May 5th is the National Day of Prayer, there will be a program from 12 noon to 2 p.m. on the Public Square in Darlington. All are welcome. For more information on the National Day of Prayer, visit www.nationaldayofprayer.org.

On Thursdays, Darlington Country Club will hold an individual points game (points based off your USGA handicap). Tee off anytime during the day and add $20 to the pot. Blind draw at 6:30 p.m., need not be present to win. Everyone participating must play with someone else that is in the game.

Darlington Kiwanis Club will meet at 1 p.m. May 5 and the first and third Thursday of the month at Darlington Country Club, 125 Country Club Road, Darlington. Speaker: TBA

Debate of Republican candidates for South Carolina's 7th Congressional District will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 5, at Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center moderated by Ken Ard. Reserve tickets to attend online at https://www.fmarion.edu/debate-tickets/ or by calling 843-661-4444. Watch the debate in its entirety via WMBF's online streaming services, WFRK-Live 95.3 FM, and the Florence County Republican Party Facebook page. Candidates accepting invitations to participate include Congressman Tom Rice, Ken Richardson, S.C. Rep. Russell Fry, Dr. Garrett Barton, and Barbara Arthur.

Enjoy classic Shrimp-N-Grits (or pork chip and grits) at Joe's Grill on Thursday nights at 306 Russell St., Darlington.

Analog Saints will perform live from 7 to 10 p.m. May 5 at Vintage Craft Beer and Wine Boutique, 152 E. Mantissa Row, Hartsville.

At 7 p.m. on Thursdays, the Atomic Mountain Bikers meet for a no drop ride through High Hill Creek Park off South Charleston Road. All skill levels are welcome, and no one will be left behind. Please bring a head lamp and or bike light as the sun will go down before we finish our ride.

Al-Anon, a fellowship of adult relatives and friends of alcoholics for mutual support, will meet at 8 p.m. on Thursday at the Hartsville AA Hut, 310 S. McFarland St. Info: https://al-anon.org or 843-992-2981

 

Friday

Good food, good drinks, and great music at the Taki's Diner Race Party from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 6, at Taki's Diner, 609 Pearl St., Darlington. Come have dinner with us to kick off Mother's Day weekend and race weekend.

Darlington Library Adult Programming presents Needle Nuts at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 6, and on the first Friday of every month at the library, 204 N. Main St., Darlington. Bring your current knitting, crochet, cross stitch project and create with others while making new friends. 843-398-4940

Official Throwback Weekend of NASCAR May 6-8 at Darlington Raceway. You can get your tickets and camping lined up by visiting www.darlingtonraceway.com or calling 866-459-7223.

The Purple Fish Coffee Company Live Music Nights return from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Fridays at 104 W. Hampton St., Darlington. Free hot dogs and hamburgers. (843) 944-0315

Enjoy Steak Night with Joe's Grill  on Friday nights at 306 Russell St., Darlington. Dine-in only. Info: 843-944-0626

Fahrenheit 225 will have Trivia & Rock Bingo Night on Fridays beginning at 7 p.m. Pick up to-go orders at 26 Public Square, Darlington. Open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Call in take-out orders at (843) 944-0321.

Muddy Creek Revival will perform live at 8 p.m. Friday, May 6, at Heels & Spurs Entertainment, 2244 Harry Byrd Hwy., Darlington.

Cruz 'n Karaoke is coming to Rambo's (formerly Mike's Corner Bar) Friday nights from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at 1288 Timmonsville Hwy., Darlington. Come on out and bring your friends to have a good time. Let's make Rambo's THE place for karaoke night. Reminder! Use your Smartphone to submit Song Requests! Get your FREE Songbooks Online APP at https://play.google.com/store/apps/details... Register and Enter Show ID: TJB582. Select the songs you want to sing. and be added to the rotation without even leaving your seat.

Dee Tallon will be live from 6 to 9 p.m. May 7 at Wild Heart Brewing Company, 317 Railroad Ave., Hartsville.

Friday Night Magic will be held at 7 p.m. every Friday at Multiverse Gifts & Games, 326 S. Fifth St., Hartsville. Format will vary based on player interest. Check Facebook or Instagram for the week's FNM event details! Formats include Modern ($5---2 Packs per round win), Standard ($5 ---2 Packs per round win), Pioneer ($5---2 Packs per round win), Commander ($5--- Packs dispersed throughout pod), Draft ($15 --- 2 Packs per round win), and Special Drafts will have varied pricing and prize support.

 

Saturday

The Darlington Soup Kitchen is open from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Saturday mornings at 586 W. West Broad St.

Too Tough To Ride charity cycling event will be held at 7 a.m. Saturday, May 7 at Darlington Raceway to benefit the South Carolina Coastal Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Register or learn more at www.visittootoughtoride.org/tootoughtoride or www.fca.org.

The Southeastern Bluegrass Association of South Carolina will hold its monthly concert from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 7, and on the first Saturday of every month at The Grand Old Post Office 201 Pearl St., Darlington. The doors open at 4 p.m.  Come on out for jamming and socializing.

Throwback Parade: 6 p.m. Saturday, May 7, from Piggly Wiggly (Edwards Avenue and Pearl Street) to the infield at Darlington Raceway. Info: 843-398-4030

Lindbergh's Southern Cooking will have BBQ from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays at 1513 S. Main St. 

Muddy Creek Revival will perform live at 8 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at Heels & Spurs Entertainment, 2244 Harry Byrd Hwy., Darlington.

 

Sunday

Central Baptist Church will hold Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Sundays at the church, 512 Spring St., Darlington. Regular worship services are held at 10:30 a.m. Sundays in the sanctuary as well as via livestream. Children's Activities begin at 5 p.m. Sundays with Kids for Christ at the Kid Central Building then share the love of God with them through teaching and songs from 6 to 7 p.m. for Children's Musical Practice at Central Baptist Church, 512 Spring St., Darlington. Info: (843) 393-8581

Darlington Presbyterian Church holds service at 11 a.m. on Sundays with Sunday School at 9:45 a.m. at the church, 311 Pearl St.

St. Matthew's Church will hold an In-Person and Virtual Church Service at 11 a.m. Sundays. Early morning in-person service at 8 a.m. Info: 843-393-4112

Lee Street First Church of God brings the Word of God to you. Connect via Facebook Live or Zoom 646-558-86-56 ext. 222 777 7676. Sunday worship service at 11 a.m. Tuesday midday prayer at noon. Wednesday Bible Study at 6 p.m. Prayer Hotline 1-888-409-8880. Info: 843-393-2672

Mechanicsville Baptist Church will hold indoor church services and Facebook live service at 10:30 a.m. Sundays at the church, 2364 Cashua Ferry Road, Darlington. All are welcome.

Children's church for ages 6-12 will open back up at 10:30 a.m. Sundays at Northwood Family Worship Center, 1100 E. McIver Road, Darlington. Praise & worship, puppets, Rovercomer the Dog, Deputy Dugan, crafts, & many fun things planned for upcoming services. Parents are not required to stay for adult services but are welcome to stay and get spiritually fed as well. It's about the relationship and not the religion. Come as you are but not leave as you came. Adult services are at 10:30 a.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Wednesdays.

Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church in Lamar will hold services at 11 a.m. in person or online. Masks required in person. (843) 332-1188.

On Sundays at 2 p.m., join Susan Wesener at the Fitness World Gyms Darlington location, 1032 Pearl St., Darlington, for a brand-new yoga class. Yoga is an amazing entry into fitness for those just starting out, and an ever-better way for hardcore gym members to find better balance, flexibility, and core endurance. Reduce stress. Improve mood. Stretch. Strengthen. Let's get fit together!

 

Monday

Darlington Library will hold Monday Morning Meditations, a beginner meditation and light yoga session at 9 a.m. every Monday at the library, 204 N. Main St., Darlington. Ages 16 and older. Comfortable clothes are recommended.

Story Time will be live at 10 a.m. Mondays at the Darlington Library, 204 N. Main St. Info: 843-398-4940

Click HERE to view the NEW Edition of Diversity Works Magazine!

 

Mark Your Calendars

Florence Darlington Technical College is now enrolling for its Electrician Program at the Hartsville Site, 225 Swift Creek Road. This past year has been a great success and we will graduate our students in May. The program begins in August 2022 and goes to May 2023. Financial aid is available. Brochure. Limited slots available. Info: 843-383-4500 or casey.copeland@fdtc.edu

Part of the joy and excitement of pregnancy is diving into the new tasks you'll need to master once your new baby arrives. To help you get ready for your bundle of joy, Carolina Pines hosts monthly childbirth classes from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on May 10 and on the first Tuesday of every month in the Education Classroom at Carolina Pines and via Zoom. This class is taught by Chandra Jeppson, Labor and Delivery Nurse. To register, visit www.cprmc.com/events. 

South Carolina Office of Resilience has awarded Darlington County a grant and contracted with E.L. Robinson to perform a countywide watershed study.  If you live in Darlington County and have flooding issues, let your voice be heard at the public meeting in your area.

• May 10 at 6 p.m. - St. John's Elementary School, 140 Park St, Darlington
• May 12 at 6 p.m. - Society Hill Neighborhood Center, 223 Hall St, Society Hill
• May 17 at 6 p.m. - Lamar-Spalding Elementary School, 5232 Lamar Hwy, Lamar
• May 19 at 6 p.m. - Elizabeth Coker Boatwright Performing Arts Center, Coker University, 300 E. College Ave, Hartsville

2022 SC Two-Generation Summit: Pathways to Prosperity will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. May 12 at Brookland Baptist Church & Conference Center, 1066 Sunset Blvd., West Columbia, to bring together individuals and organizations interested in learning about SC initiatives focused on increasing economic assets. Registration: $25.

Friends of the Hartsville Library will hold their Spring Book Sale Thursday, May 12, through Sunday, May 15, at the library, 147 W. College Ave., Hartsville.

Hartsville Church of God Women's Conference Daughters of the King will be at 6 p.m. Friday, May 13, and at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 14, at the church, 704 Lakeview Blvd., Hartsville. Follow the "Find Tickets" link to purchase admission online. Guest speaker: Rev. Eileen Gunnells, an Ordained Minister with the South Carolina Conference of the International Pentecostal Holiness Church.

Zack Brock & Good Intentions will perform live at 8 p.m. Friday, May 13, at Heels & Spurs Entertainment, 2244 Harry Byrd Hwy., Darlington.

Darlington High School will participate in a Day of Kindness with students across the school district from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 14. They will provide free car washes and hot dogs to the community at the First Church of God on North Main Street as well as clean up the streets around campus.

Spaulding Middle School Community Fair will be from 10 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday, May 14, at the school, 400 E. Cartersville Hwy., Lamar. Info: 843-326-7625

 

Muddy Creek Revival opens the Saturdays on the Square season for 2022 from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 14, on the Public Square. Enjoy live music, classic car show, food vendors, and more. Concerts continue the SECOND SATURDAY from May through September! More details TBA! Sponsors. Vendors. Info: 843-992-1561

The Masterworks Choir will perform their spring concert, A German Requiem by Johannes Brahms, at 5 p.m. Sunday, May 15, at the FMU Performing Arts Center in downtown Florence.  This special concert will be performed in memory of Bill Mills, founder of Masterworks and director of the choir for 33 years before his death in 2012. Free.

Make fairy sticks and bling to hang from your flowerpots with Growing Hobby at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 17, at the Pee Dee State Farmers Market, 2513 W. Lucas St., Florence. Cost: $fee includes supplies to make two items. BYOB.

Boiler Efficiency Institute Virtual Workshop: HVAC Improvement will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 18 and May 19 online. The objective of this course is to develop the participants' abilities to recognize cost-saving measures in HVAC equipment/operation and then to implement the necessary changes to realize these savings. Cost: $25. The S.C. Energy Office has contracted with the Boiler Efficiency Institute to provide this training. The course fee is usually $795, but due to the support of the ORS Energy Office, these programs are offered at a drastically reduced rate of $25. This course is worth 12 Professional Development Hours (PDHs). Certificates for PDHs will be presented to all participants upon successful completion of the workshop. Info: (334) 821-3095

Join Bishop Reginald J. McLeod Sr. and the Ministries of Love Christian Fellowship for the First Holy Convocation at 7 p.m. nightly May 19-22 at Mended Hearts Ministries, 1486 Harry Byrd Hwy., Darlington. Tickets: $25.

Brenda Cranford School of Dance will hold its 41st Annual Dance Showcase with four shows at Hartsville Center Theater, 212 N. Fifth St.: 7 p.m. Friday, May 20; 11 a.m. Saturday, May 21; 2 p.m. Saturday, May 21; and 6 p.m. Saturday, May 21 (Dance Company Concert).

Join Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center for a Community Stroke Awareness Fair from 9 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday, May 21, on the front lawn of medical center. FREE Lipid Panels, Blood Pressure Checks, Stroke Prevention Education, Recognizing Stroke, Stroke Risk Assessment, Healthy Eating Information, Hands-Only CPR, Interactive Education, Door Prizes Valued Over $600, Interactive Kids' Corner, Live Broadcast from 103X, and FREE Frostbites Shaved Ice. To register for a FREE lipid panel to check your cholesterol levels, visit www.cprmc.com/StrokeFair

Darlington County Community Action Agency will hold a Community Action Day Celebration from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 21, at the DCCAA Office, 325 W. Washington St., Hartsville. Free refreshments. Assistance with utility bills and rent. Harvest Hope food giveaway. For information or vendor applications, contact Pamela Stevenson @ pstevenson@dccaa.net or Rosa McLeod @ rmcleod@dccaa.net or call 843-332-1135.

CREATE PHOTOS LIKE A PRO WITH YOUR IPHONE from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 21 at Black Creek Arts, 116 W. Carolina Ave., Hartsville. Learn how to make the most of your iPhone camera by covering features, tips, and tricks. Info: 843-332-6234

Make a succulent dish garden that fairies will flock to with Growing Hobby at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 21, at the Pee Dee State Farmers Market, 2513 W. Lucas St., Florence. Cost: $30 includes supplies. Additional fairy accessories for sale. This workshop is kid-friendly, but adults will enjoy it just as much. Ages 10 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Come have brunch with Dee Tallon from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 22, at Wild Heart Brewing, 317 Railroad Ave., Hartsville. He'll be performing some chill songs that go perfectly with a Wild Bowl.

DDRA Members Breakfast: 8 a.m. Thursday, May 26, at Taki's Diner, 609 Pearl St. Free for members and $5 for others. Members meet to network, make suggestions, and find out about upcoming events.

Board Game Night will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 26, at Crema Coffee Bar, 136 W. Carolina Ave., Hartsville. There will be plenty of games to choose from, and a game master that knows the games and can teach them easily!

FRIDAY, MAY 27, LAST DAY TO SUBMIT TO Carolinas Annual Photography Competition. Amateur and professional photographers of all ages who live, work or create in the Pee Dee Region are invited to enter the annual Carolinas Photography Exhibit. To enter, simply bring your photo(s) to Black Creek Arts Center or Hartsville Memorial Library by May 27. Three entries per person are allowed and the prices are $15 for one entry, $25 for two, and $30 for three. All pieces are to be show-ready when submitted. More information.

Carolinas Annual Photography Competition will debut at Hartsville Memorial Library and Black Creek Arts Center with an opening reception and gallery crawl from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 2 at 116 W. College Ave., Hartsville.

The Upton Trio will hold a special concert at St. Matthew's Church in the Parish Hall, 210 S. Main St., Darlington, at 4 p.m. Sunday, June 5. The program will include Carnival of the Animals by Camille Saint-Saens and Scenes from South Carolina by Mary Lee Kinoshin.  A reception will follow the concert. Seating will be limited. Reserve your spot by calling the church office at 843-393-4112.

Mike Taylor and the Holiday Band will perform for the DDRA and Saturdays on the Square from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, June 11, on the Public Square. Enjoy live music, classic car show, food vendors, and more. Concerts continue the SECOND SATURDAY from May through September! More details TBA! Sponsors. Vendors. Info: 843-992-1561

Gospel in the Park continues from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, June 12, at Pride Park, 630 S. Sixth St., Hartsville. National Men's Health Month. Bringing Unity Into Our Community. Info: 843-409-5241 or gospelinthepark@yahoo.com

Bocce Bash will be held at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, June 11, at Byerly Park in Hartsville. Register now at blackcreekarts.org

First Baptist Church invites all children in grade 3K to grade 5 to its Vacation Bible School, Spark Studios: Created in Christ, Designed for God's Purpose, Ephesians 2:10, from 6 to 8 p.m. June 12-16 at the church, 216 S. Main St., Darlington.

Join Twist Kids Yoga for a workshop on how to teach yoga & mindfulness to children from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 25 at Black Creek Arts Center, 116 W. College Ave., Hartsville. In this 8-hour workshop, we will teach you the necessary tools and techniques for leading children ages 4-12 through a yoga & mindfulness class. This workshop is perfect for educators, yoga teachers, parents, counselors, childcare providers or anyone who loves children and wants to make a positive difference. 8 CEUs are available for Yoga Alliance teachers. This workshop is a shorter version of the Foundations From The Ground Up YTT that we offer in our 95-hr children's yoga program. *No prerequisites needed. Open to anyone with a love for children & yoga. Info: 843-332-6234

Kids will experience connection, breathing, movement and more during a Yoga Summer Camp June 22-24 at Black Creek Arts Center! There will be age-appropriate yoga & mindfulness activities for the kids. Camp will run from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for ages 4-7 and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. for ages 8-12 at 116 W. College Ave., Hartsville. Benefits of Kids Yoga: Enhanced flexibility, strength, coordination and body awareness; Concentration and an improved sense of calmness & relaxation; Playful exercise; Connection with self; Development of relating more with the natural world; and Learning to see their inner light. Info: 843-332-6234

  

The Saxxy Keyz will perform for the DDRA and Saturdays on the Square from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 9, on the Public Square. Enjoy live music, classic car show, food vendors, and more. Concerts continue the SECOND SATURDAY from May through September! More details TBA! Sponsors. Vendors. Info: 843-992-1561

Gospel in the Park celebrates its 15th Anniversary from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, July 10, at Pride Park, 630 S. Sixth St., Hartsville. Bringing Unity Into Our Community. Info: 843-409-5241 or gospelinthepark@yahoo.com

Vacation Bible School comes to St. Matthews Church, 210 S. Main St., Darlington, July 10-13. Info: 843-393-4112

Introduction to West African Djembe Drumming Summer Camp will be held from 3 to 4 p.m. July 18-21 for ages 4-12 at Black Creek Arts, 116 W. College Ave., Hartsville. Only 10 spots available! This camp will align with the South Carolina public education Standards for General Music Proficiency. Info: www.blackcreekarts.org/classes

The Beacon Of Light Institute For Veterans will hold a softball tournament at Freedom Florence Park Softball field Home Run for Heroes on Saturday, Aug. 6, and Sunday, Aug. 7, to help veterans, first and emergency responders. The Beacon Of Light is a 501c3 organization that aims to educate others about mental health issues. To improve the quality of their lives by helping put back the pieces of their lives together again. By doing so, the prevention of suicide, homelessness, and various addictions are among the few daily issues that can be resolved and lives can be saved. You can be a part of the healing process by supporting this event and the Beacon of Light's efforts ensuring that both underserved populations get the support that they need. Teams are being accepted to compete. The free community event will include vaccination clinics, COVID rapid testing, and more. Info: 843-250-4627

  

The Rick Strickland will perform for the DDRA and Saturdays on the Square from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, August 13, on the Public Square. Enjoy live music, classic car show, food vendors, and more. Concerts continue the SECOND SATURDAY from May through September! More details TBA! Sponsors. Vendors. Info: 843-992-1561

Gospel in the Park continues from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, August 14, at Pride Park, 630 S. Sixth St., Hartsville. Back to School Rally with school supplies. Bringing Unity Into Our Community. Info: 843-409-5241 or gospelinthepark@yahoo.com

Southern 500 Invitational will be held Thursday, Aug. 25, through Sunday, Aug. 28, at Darlington Country Club, 125 Country Club Road, Darlington.

Southern 500 Weekend Sept. 2-4 at Darlington Raceway. You can get your tickets and camping lined up by visiting www.darlingtonraceway.com or calling 866-459-7223.

John King will perform for the DDRA and Saturdays on the Square from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, on the Public Square to finish up the 2022 season. Enjoy live music, classic car show, food vendors, and more. More details TBA! Sponsors. Vendors. Info: 843-992-1561

Gospel in the Park continues from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 11, at Pride Park, 630 S. Sixth St., Hartsville. Prostate Cancer Month and Grandparents Day. Bringing Unity Into Our Community. Info: 843-409-5241 or gospelinthepark@yahoo.com

The Happy Little Fun Run is an in-person and virtual 5k run/walk for all ages that will take place in September 2022. Wheelchairs, strollers, and dogs are welcome. Proceeds from the Happy Little Fun Run: support art education in Darlington County schools. The in-person event takes place at 5 p.m. Saturday, September 24, at Black Creek Arts Council, 116 West College Avenue, Hartsville. Want to take your registration one step further? Choose the BOB ROSS option at check out, and your registration will include a Bob Ross wig! The virtual event may be completed any time Sept 1-24; selfies must be submitted by 11 p.m. Sept. 24 for prize eligibility. All participants - must register online by Sept. 1 to guarantee the requested shirt size. Registration for the Happy Little Fun Run is $45. Race packets will be available to pick up at Black Creek Art Center on Sept. 23. Bob Ross Bonus registration Price: $55. Day of Price: $65.

S.C. Yoga and Healing Arts Festival Bazaar will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 23, at Black Creek Arts Center, 116 W. College Ave., Hartsville. Wellness Marketplace + Dance Party with DJ VooDoo Child. FREE to the community! Vendor, Healers, Libations, Dancing, and Fun.

S.C. Yoga and Healing Arts Festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 25, at Black Creek Arts Center, 116 W. College Ave., Hartsville. Early bird gets the worm! There are only 35 tickets available for this event! Cost: $199, lunch not included. All proceeds will go directly to supporting Black Creek Arts programming.

Gospel Singing with Molded Clay will minister in song at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 25, at Beauford Baptist Church 18182 S.C. 151 North, McBee.

Gospel in the Park continues from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2, at Pride Park, 630 S. Sixth St., Hartsville. Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Bringing Unity Into Our Community. Info: 843-409-5241 or gospelinthepark@yahoo.com

The Mayo High School Alumni Association plans its Homecoming Celebration for October 7-9. On Friday, Oct. 7, Blazers, Blue Jeans & High Heels will be a homecoming dance at SiMT from 7 to 11:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30. On Saturday, Oct. 8, Alumni Parade will be held at 10 a.m. at the BA Gary Educational Complex with a new route. Line up at 8:30. Entry fee: $10. Later that day, the Tailgate Party will be from 5 to 9 p.m. at Virgil Wells Stadium. Children ages 16 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. To wrap up the weekend, on Sunday, Oct. 9, there will be a worship service at 10:30 a.m. at A.W. Stanley Gym. Tickets for events go on sale July 1. Info: mhsaa1889@gmail.com

Black Creek Arts Council presents Cabaret at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15. Attendees must be age 21 and older. Info: 843-332-6234 or info@blackcreekarts.org

The Empowerment Palace Training Ground will have Live Transformation Classes at 3 p.m. Oct. 23 and Nov. 13, at Hampton Inn, 203 E. Carolina Ave., Hartsville. These sessions are Biblical Training to grow in your relationship with Christ. Info: 800-974-8185 ext. 0 or theempowermentpalace@yahoo.com

Gospel in the Park continues from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at Pride Park, 630 S. Sixth St., Hartsville. Food Boxes Distribution. Bringing Unity Into Our Community. Info: 843-409-5241 or gospelinthepark@yahoo.com

Gospel in the Park continues from 5 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, at Pride Park, 630 S. Sixth St., Hartsville. Annual Community Tree Lighting Ceremony. Bringing Unity Into Our Community. Info: 843-409-5241 or gospelinthepark@yahoo.com

GENERAL COVID-19 INFORMATION

• DHEC Careline 855-472-3432: Get answers to common questions about the Corona Virus from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.
• DHEC Sponsored Testing at Darlington County Health Department,305 Russell St., Darlington. From 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekdays, with a break from 12 noon to 1 p.m. No appointment necessary. Preregistration encouraged: 1-855-472-3432 or scdhec.gov/gettested.
• COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Line Number (844) 684-6333, TTY (800) 462-7585. Hours of Operation: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

 

CITY SERVICES

Darlington City Hall has reopened to the public at a limited capacity. Hours of operation remain 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

• Individuals may only enter through the front door of City Hall, 400 Pearl St.
• Individuals must wear a mask.
• Individuals must maintain social distancing of six (6) feet from others.
• A maximum of three (3) people will be allowed in the reception area at any one time. Others must wait outside.
• Restrooms will not be open to the public.

Individuals are still encouraged to do as much business by telephone and email as possible. City staff will be available, and essential services will not be interrupted. Below are the numbers to call for specific questions.

You may call the following numbers with service-related issues

• Emergencies, call 911
• Business Licenses - 843-398-4000 ext. 101
• Permits - 843-398-4029
• Water/Sewer, Normal Business Hours - 843-398-4040
• Water/Sewer, After 5 p.m.  -  843-758-1127
• Fire, Non-emergency - 843-398-4013
• Police, Non-emergency - 843-398-4026
• Municipal Court - 843-398-4004
• Streets & Sanitation - 843-398-4035
• Media Inquiries - 843-992-1561

Download the DDRA Membership Application here. Download a Map Location Form for your business. Return to info@buildupdarlington.org or DDRA, P.O. Pox 57, Darlington, SC 29540.

To have your event listed on our websites, please email info@buildupdarlington.org or call 843-398-4000 the week prior to your event. The DDRA office has moved to City Hall, 400 Pearl St. If you need us, call 843-992-1561 or email info@buildupdarlington.org. Thanks!