Grand Strand Newsmakers

Horry Georgetown Technical College Hosts Solar Eclipse Viewing Event on Georgetown Campus

Over 400 people enjoyed a fun-filled day and a clear view of the total eclipse

(Georgetown) August 24, 2017 – Horry Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) hosted a community gathering for the solar eclipse on August 21, 2017, on the college’s Georgetown campus. Over 400 employees, students, and members of the public experienced a clear view of the total eclipse.

Attendees enjoyed children’s activities, remarks from Bob Pender, RN of Tideland’s Health, and a presentation from Dr. Patricia Craig of the Lunar & Planetary Institute. Tidelands Health provided eclipse glasses.

“We were so pleased to be able to open our campus to the public for such a special event, and that so many people came,” said Lari Roper, event coordinator and HGTC’s Assistant Marketing & Public Relations Director. “Adults and children alike were able to enjoy an informative and fun day, and, despite the threatening rain clouds, we were able to view the eclipse in its totality.”

Girl Scout Troop 91 collects food

Members of Girl Scout Troop 91 were proud of the nearly 300 pounds of food their menbers collected for the local food pantries. All the members want to thank the people at Lakes at Plantation Pines and Royal Estates for their generous contributions.

Six city employees receive customer service awards

During the August 21 North Myrtle Beach City Council meeting, six city employees received Longevity Awards. Employees who continuously provide excellent customer service receive Longevity Awards in five-year increments.

Receiving the awards were Wastewater Operator “A” Derek Little (25 years of service), Information Services Director Rick Wall (20), Heavy Equipment Operator Patrick Bellamy (15), PSO Fire Lieutenant Justin Domogauer (15) Assistant Finance Director Jamie Baker (10) and Accounting Supervisor Ashley Richardson (10).

Brenda Thompson with Valor into Purpose and Arianne Welker with Riley Power Group speak at Shallotte Rotary meeting

Arianne Welker, payroll and accounts manager with Riley Power Group and Brenda Thompson, education and training director with Valor into Purpose, the nonprofit, training arm of Riley Power Group recently spoke at a meeting of the Shallotte Rotary Club. Arianne related that Riley Power Group was founded in 2013 and partners with companies in a number of states to provide top level welders for projects. Ms. Thompson explained that Valor into Purpose provides a 16 week welding training program. The training is designed for transitioning service members, veterans, and the community at large. Local workforce boards with help defray some of the cost for qualified students, and veterans can utilize their GI bill to pay for the training. For more information, please visit www.valorintopurpose.com

The Shallotte Rotary Club meets at Planet Fun on Thursday’s from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Visitors are always welcome.

This story was originally published August 31, 2017 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Grand Strand Newsmakers."