First Friday with Georgetown County

Georgetown County's new Emergency Manager Loren Wallace makes his podcast debut with an early look at the 2026 hurricane season and a must-have resource: the SC Emergency Management app, free on the App Store and Google Play. Also this month, Multimedia Specialist Randy Akers from the IT Department explains the county's website refresh and the transition to gtcountysc.gov.

April is a busy month in Georgetown County — and this episode covers a lot of ground. Finance Director Megan Colegrove walks us through the county's budget cycle and what it means for residents. Watershed Specialist Rodney Butler and Stormwater Intern Kiana Shibler share details on an exciting oyster recycling program in the works and a survey they want the public to complete. Longtime 911 employee Susie Tuck takes us back to the early days of emergency communications — before the number was even 911 — in honor of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week and Emergency Communications Month. And Kevin O'Dell of the SC Office of Resilience previews an upcoming public meeting on stormwater improvements in the Graves Station-Friendfield communities. Something for everyone this month on First Friday with Georgetown County.

This month on First Friday with Georgetown County, we sit down with two guests making a real difference in our community. Veterans Services Officer Paige Sawyer shares what's changed at the county's veterans office since he came on board last summer — and previews "Day of the Fox," an SC 250 living history event celebrating Francis Marion, the legendary Swamp Fox whose Revolutionary War exploits are woven into the fabric of Georgetown County. Then, Parks and Recreation Director Beth Goodale introduces GC Calm, a new initiative encouraging residents and visitors to slow down, step outside, and reconnect with nature through forest bathing and Georgetown County's most peaceful outdoor spots. From honoring our past to restoring the present, this episode is a reminder of what makes Georgetown County a special place to call home.

This episode of First Friday with Georgetown County features three special conversations spotlighting service, community spirit, and the work happening behind the scenes in local government. Lt. Jim Ketcham of the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office joins the show to share details about the upcoming Polar Plunge fundraiser benefiting Special Olympics South Carolina and how residents can get involved in supporting athletes across the state. We also sit down with Deputy Assessor Susan Edwards as she reflects on an extraordinary milestone — 55 years of dedicated service to Georgetown County — and the changes she has witnessed throughout her remarkable career. Finally, Clerk of Court Alma White provides an overview of the Clerk of Court’s Office, explaining the essential functions her department performs and the role it plays in serving the public and supporting the judicial system. Tune in for an inspiring and informative episode celebrating commitment, community partnerships and the people who help Georgetown County run every day.

As we begin a new year, Georgetown County looks back on the projects, progress and people that shaped the past 12 months. In this end-of-year podcast, we reflect on major milestones, challenges overcome, and the work happening behind the scenes to serve our community. From infrastructure and public safety to quality-of-life initiatives, this conversation highlights where we’ve been—and where we’re headed next.

In this December episode of First Friday with Georgetown County, host Jackie Broach sits down with two special guests to celebrate the season and keep residents safe. Bob Willey, president of the Friends of the Georgetown Library, joins us to share what’s in store for this year’s Yuletide Home Tour and why it has become one of the community’s most beloved holiday traditions. Then, Georgetown County Fire-EMS Assistant Fire Chief Aaron Bostick offers essential tips for preventing fires during the holidays—from Christmas tree care to safe cooking practices and fireworks. Tune in for a blend of festive history, community spirit and practical safety guidance.

In this month’s episode of First Friday with Georgetown County, we’re shining a light on the programs and people helping our community grow stronger and more connected. First, Jonathan Branch from the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office shares an update on the department's Re-entry Program, a successful initiative that’s reducing recidivism and giving returning citizens the tools to rebuild their lives. Next, Beth Goodale, Parks and Recreation Director, and Jason Walters, Recreation Manager, discuss the department’s new Sportsmanship Initiative—a program designed to rekindle community enthusiasm for youth and high school sports through a revitalized football feeder program that’s already seeing results. Finally, Randy Akers, Multimedia Specialist, walks us through the audio-visual upgrades transforming the County Council Chambers, improving transparency and accessibility for residents who tune into meetings. It’s all about innovation, collaboration and community pride—right here in Georgetown County.

This month’s episode brings you three conversations shaping life in Georgetown County. Planning Director Holly Richardson and consultant Sarah Sinatra update listeners on the county’s ongoing Unified Development Ordinance process and what it means for the community’s future. Brandon Ellis, Emergency Services Director, discusses recent tropical activity and why you shouldn't count hurricane season out just yet—plus what you can do now to stay prepared. Finally, Sharea Drayton, Branch Manager of the Southern Georgetown Library, and Children’s Assistant Ashley Reed share details on the library’s upcoming Fandom Fest, a comic-con style celebration for fans of all ages.

This month’s episode of First Friday with Georgetown County brings together history, wellness and safety: Preserving Our Past – Julie Warren, Digital Archivist, introduces listeners to the Georgetown County Digital Library, a public archive of historic photos, documents, and newspapers that make our county’s history more accessible than ever. Programs for Seniors – Angie Weaver, Community Specialist with Parks and Recreation, highlights senior-focused programs such as Walk with Ease and Tai Chi, designed to promote health, activity and social connection. Traffic Safety & Hands-Free Driving – Deputies Livingston and Yarborough of the Sheriff’s Office Traffic Patrol explain South Carolina’s new hands-free driving law, along with other vital traffic safety reminders for local drivers.

In the August edition of First Friday with Georgetown County, we explore summer fun, safety, and youth engagement across our community: Youth in Action – Parks & Rec. intern Maddie Garnes shares her experience working with the department this summer, gives us a preview of Kids Track Trails Day on August 16, and explains how the GOAT (Georgetown Outdoor Adventure Trails) program is getting people excited about the outdoors. ️ Safe Shores & Parks Updates – Recreation Manager Jason Walters talks about the county’s new Safe Shores sign initiative, featuring beach access signs designed to improve public safety, plus other exciting happenings in Georgetown County Parks and Recreation. Beach & Heat Safety – Emergency Services Director Brandon Ellis offers critical tips for staying safe on the beach, including how to handle rip currents, and how to protect yourself and others during periods of extreme heat. Stay cool, stay safe, and stay connected—tune in now!

Episode Description: This month on First Friday with Georgetown County, we spotlight growth, civic engagement, and exciting events happening across the county: Economic Development Outlook – Meet Kelly Robertson-Slagle, Georgetown County’s new Economic Development Director, as she shares her vision for smart growth, business attraction, and workforce development in our region. ️ Special Election Preview – Aphra McCrea, Director of Voter Registration and Elections, explains the details of an upcoming special election to fill a vacant school board seat—what voters need to know and how to make their voices heard. Georgetown 250 Takes Shape – Ken Baeszler, Chairman of the Georgetown 250 Committee, discusses how the county is preparing to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States with events that honor the past and look toward the future.  Wave That Flag & SC7 Expedition – Beth Goodale, Parks and Recreation Director, previews this weekend’s Wave That Flag festival and laser light show and talks about the upcoming visit from the SC7 Expedition, spotlighting the beauty and resilience of South Carolina’s natural resources.

Episode Description: In the June episode of First Friday with Georgetown County, we dive into important summer updates and celebrations happening across the county: ️ Hurricane Season Preparedness – Emergency Services Director Brandon Ellis shares what residents need to know to prepare for the 2025 hurricane season and how the county is planning ahead. Mobile Pools & Splash Pad Fun – Parks & Recreation Director Beth Goodale introduces the county’s new mobile pool program, bringing swim lessons to rural areas, and talks about the brand new splash pad in Choppee. Juneteenth at the Library – Jo’Vonna Davis of the Georgetown County Library System gives us the scoop on the library's first-ever Juneteenth Festival, celebrating freedom, culture, and community through educational and family-friendly events. Listen and stay connected with the people and programs making a difference this summer in Georgetown County.

Episode Description: In this episode of First Friday with Georgetown County, we spotlight three timely topics shaping life in our community this May: Capital Project Sales Tax Begins – Administrative Services Director Walt Ackerman explains how the 1% Capital Project Sales Tax, which went into effect May 1, will support critical infrastructure and community improvements across Georgetown County. Mosquito Season Kicks Off – Roban Mears of the Georgetown County Mosquito Control Division shares what residents can expect as the county begins its seasonal spraying operations and how the public can help reduce mosquito breeding grounds. Anthuan Maybank Weekend – Olympic Gold Medalist Anthuan Maybank and Parks & Rec Director Beth Goodale talk about the exciting events planned for May 2–3, celebrating local youth, fitness and community spirit.

This month’s episode of First Friday with Georgetown County brings you a packed episode with crucial updates and community initiatives: Cybersecurity & County IT Upgrades – Seth Housand, Georgetown County IT Director, shares how the county has strengthened its cybersecurity infrastructure following the 2021 ransomware attack and what residents should know about online safety. Celebrating 30 Years of Bike the Neck – Parks & Recreation Director Beth Goodale and Bike the Neck Chairwoman Linda Ketron reflect on the bikeway’s legacy and growth. Disaster Relief & Volunteer Training – Emergency Services Director Brandon Ellis and American Red Cross Disaster Training Coordinator Irene Branyard highlight the urgent need for shelter volunteers and how you can get involved in an upcoming training session.

In the March 2025 episode of First Friday with Georgetown County, meet the new head of children's services at the library and learn about the upcoming property reassessment and how it will impact you.

Our February episode features conversations with: - Dan Harding, professor of Architecture at Clemson University, regarding redevelopment plans presented by his students for the Georgetown Port; and - Matt Millwood of the Georgetown County Planning Department regarding the latest phase of the county's blight removal project, which is beautifying communities by removing abandoned and dilapidated structures.

In lieu of our regular First Friday with Georgetown County podcast, this month we're posting our annual Year in Review. For a more in-depth report, view our printed 2024 Annual Report at gtcounty.org/newsroom.

In this episode we discuss the efforts of the Sheriff's Office to keep our roadways safe, the recent job fair for former IP employees, and the Georgetown Library's much-anticipated Yuletide Home Tour fundraiser—a cherished community tradition bringing holiday cheer while supporting a great cause.

This episode features a discussion with Ashley Nelson of the Bunnelle Foundation about opportunities for community giving. Other topics for this episode are a new firefighter readiness program at Midway Fire-Rescue and how public safety personnel are using drones on the job.

The October 2024 episode of First Friday with Georgetown County features discussions about: An upcoming outdoors festival and family friendly Halloween event (Forest's Not-So-Spooky Halloween Trail); What you need to know in preparation for voting in the General Election; and Two sales tax referendums that will appear on the General Election ballot.

In the September 2024 episode of First Friday with Georgetown County, we talk about: An EPA grant that will help the county assess brownfields sites for redevelopment; Hurricane preparedness and forecasting, featuring special guest Steve Pfaff of the National Weather Service's Wilmington Office; and A recent accreditation received by the Georgetown County Sheriff's Office.

In the August. 2024 episode of First Friday with Georgetown County, we talk about: Boat safety on our area rivers Mosquito control efforts What comes next now that the Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan has passed And the reopening of the Georgetown Library branch

In celebration of National Parks and Recreation Month, join us as we talk with Beth Goodale, Georgetown County director of Parks and Recreation. We also talk beach safety with Chief Brent McClellan of Midway Fire-Rescue and Capt. Chuck Weaver of the Georgetown County Sheriff's Office.

In this month's podcast, County Administrator Angela Christian discusses the FY 2024-25 Budget; Administrative Services Director Walt Ackerman gives an update on the projects list for a proposed Capital Project Sales Tax referendum; and Roban Mears of the Mosquito Control Division discusses mosquito control techniques.

In this episode of First Friday with Georgetown County, we discuss the Georgetown Library System's new bookmobile, the upcoming hurricane season and new evacuation zones, National Public Works Week, and the Public Services Department's recent APWA Reaccreditation.

Joining us this month is a special guest, Olympic gold medalist and Georgetown native Anthuan Maybank. He discusses his upcoming visit to emcee our Waccamaw Sports Classic and work with participants in our youth track and field program. Other topics include a new real estate fraud prevention program being offered to residents, an upcoming open house at the Georgetown Airport, and candidates who will appear on the ballot in the June primary election.

In this episode, we discuss the new draft of the Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan, Severe Weather Awareness Week, new hurricane evacuation zones, and how to submit projects for the proposed Capital Project Sales Tax.

In this episode: - Library Director Dwight McInvaill discusses progress on renovations to the Georgetown County Library's main branch. - Aphra McCrea, Director of Elections and Voter Registration for Georgetown County, discusses the presidential primary and other elections occurring this year.

Our very first episode, where we talk with: Auditor Ken Baker and Treasurer Miriam Mace about property taxes; TL Staub of Georgetown County Parks & Recreation about the new Georgetown Outdoor Adventure Trails program; and Walt Ackerman, director of administrative services about two proposed sales taxes that will be on the ballot this November.