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.

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!

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.

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.

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.