Jack Thompson celebrates 75 years of images – North Myrtle Beach Occasions

By James Pease II

Jack Thompson Day was held on Sunday, Sept. 21, at 3 p.m. on the Myrtle Beach Train Depot in Myrtle Beach.

Friends of Jack Thompson collect collectively yearly to have fun his birthday. This 12 months, Jack celebrated his 89th birthday alongside celebrating 75 years of his chronicling of Myrtle Beach’s historical past by the artwork of his images.

During the ceremony, quite a few audio system spoke of their time realizing Jack Thompson.

Mark Kruea was the emcee for the occasion. He gave opening remarks and thanked everybody for attending. “It’s rare to find this much dedication and commitment in one person,” mentioned Kruea. “He stops time. Captures a moment. Freezes a memory. Literally creates memories of Myrtle Beach and the families who have enjoyed our wonderful home for 75 years. The Myrtle Beach of our youth, of our history, exists through Jack’s talents with a camera.”

Former Myrtle Beach Councilman Wayne Gray and Alan Clemmons, former state consultant and present grasp in fairness, had been visitor audio system for the occasion final Sunday.

Alan Clemmons offered Jack Thompson with the Order of the Palmetto on behalf of Governor Henry McMaster. Clemmons recited a letter given to him by Governor McMaster as follows:

“I’m happy to congratulate you on receiving the Order of the Palmetto. This award is reserved for many who have really made an impression on South Carolina and our individuals.

As the keeper of the Grand Strand’s photographic historical past, you’ve preserved numerous moments that seize the event of Myrtle Beach and the encompassing area. Your work has documented not solely the tales of people and communities, but additionally the transformation of the Grand Strand into the highest vacationer vacation spot it’s immediately.

Through your lens, you’ve created a chronicle of our historical past that ensures future generations will perceive the place we got here from and the way far we have now come. For greater than 50 years, you’ve served because the Grand Strand’s unofficial historian and ambassador. Your ardour and expertise for preserving South Carolina’s historical past have drastically enriched our state.

On behalf of the individuals of South Carolina, I prolong my gratitude to your dedication and repair. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor and thanks for the lasting contributions you’ve made to our state.”

Afterwards, everybody loved a slice of cake supplied by Paige Price of Priceless Desserts and a e book signing of Jack’s newest image e book, “Jack Thompson’s Myrtle Beach Billboards”.