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.