STRANDER STRANDER - Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce

Transcription

M y r t l e B e a c h A re a C h a m b e r o f Co m m e rce
GRAND
STRANDER
Issue 707
May 2012
It’s time to renew your
chamber membership
Success in your business is directly
impacted by what you know –
and who you know. Your active
participation in the Myrtle Beach
Area Chamber of Commerce gives a
big boost to both. MBACC gives you
the greatest access to new customers,
new ideas and other resources that will
grow your business.
Renewing your MBACC membership
provides countless opportunities to
give back to the community and
capitalize on significant member
benefits. The chamber values your
support and considers it a privilege
to serve your business.
Anyone who is in business knows
there is a cost to doing business. That
cost includes cost of goods, overhead,
staffing, customer service and other
areas. As with any business, costs rise
over time.
This year, the chamber board of
directors has recognized that our
current investment structure was not
sustainable and needed to be updated.
Increases in the dues structure had
not been implemented for four years,
despite rising costs in all areas of
operations. Regardless, the board relied
on the accumulated cash in its savings
accounts to lessen the impact of the
increased expense on the individual
Renew, See Page 9
Fuel America’s economy: Travel
With numerous spring festivals and
events just around the corner, May is
the perfect time to celebrate tourism
and extend a warm welcome to our
visitors.
Your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber
of Commerce and the Grand Strand
tourism industry are joining hundreds
of cities and businesses nationwide in
the annual salute to travel and tourism
in America – National Tourism Week,
May 5-13, 2012. In recognition of this
event, your chamber will be featuring
advertisements in local newspapers
and on television and radio that
draw attention to the importance of
travel and tourism throughout our
community.
To salute National Tourism Week and
prepare for our local celebration of
Tourism Week, See Page 6
What’s Inside?
Chamber Events • 3
Mark your calendar with these
May networking events!
CVB Insider
Digital marketing helps grow visitors’
interest in the Myrtle Beach area.
Business Bulletin • 21
Chamber members announce new
hires, awards and more.
PR Hotspot
Public relations team circling
the globe with visit
Myrtle Beach message.
See Page 12
Visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com
• Discover a flexible health care plan
• Save big bucks on office supplies
Visit ArtsAtTheBeach.com
• Explore the arts community – cultural
events, festivals, galleries and more
Follow MBACC on
What’s Online?
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com
4 1/2 Questions
Pizza Romana, 701 S. Kings Hwy.,
Myrtle Beach, (843) 448-5271,
pizzaromanamyrtlebeach.com.
Pizza Romana has been serving
New York style pizza at the beach
since 1992. See more ribboncutting photos in the May
Grand Strander Online.
“Why become an ambassador?”
This month we checked in with
Jay Mulligan, chief operating officer
with Jordan & Sons Plumbing.
An ambassador for five months,
Mulligan says that being an
ambassador has been priceless and
has allowed other people to get
to know him and his business on a
personal level. Check out the May
Grand Strander Online for his story.
Member of the Month
Member Anniversaries
What’s the secret to long-term
success in the business community?
Establishing lasting and personal
relationships with other professionals
through membership in the Myrtle
Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.
During May, 146 members will
be celebrating their chamber
anniversaries. Read the May Grand
Strander Online and discover which
32-year member business has a golf
course and stately clubhouse nestled
among giant live oaks that date back
to the early 18th century.
DKNY Donna Karan New York
Tanger Outlet Center – 17 Bypass North
10827 Kings Rd., Ste. 825
Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
(843) 449-4200
dkny.com
30-Second Commercial
DKNY is the energy and spirit of New York. International, eclectic, fun, fast and real.
DKNY addresses the real-life needs of people everywhere, from work to weekend, jeans
to evening. Both fashionable and friendly, DKNY consistently delivers its unique mix of
style around the world.
#1 Business Goal
To build a relationship and a clientele base with the fashion forward community as well
as provide for the everyday needs of the fashion conscious consumer.
2011-2012 Board of Directors
Chairman of the Board
Richard Singleton
Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate
Immediate Past Chairman
Franklin Daniels
Nexsen Pruet, LLC
Jim Apple
Burroughs & Chapin Co.
Tommy Bouchette
BNC Bank
Shannon Detzler
The Jackson Companies
Ted Fortenberry
WMBF News
Mike Hagg
HTC Communications
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Terrance Herriott
Conway National Bank
Greg McCollum
M. Gregory McCollum, PA
Mil Servant
Surfside Realty Co. Inc
Suzanne Hinde
Sheraton Myrtle Beach
Convention Center Hotel
Bill McGonigal
Best Western Ocean Sands Resort
Chris Shroff
Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts
Ken McKelvey
Defender Resorts Inc.
John Springs
Caledonia & True Blue Golf Courses
George Mims
Grubbs & Ellis I Wilson Kibler
Jordan Watkins
Gilmore Entertainment
Billy Huggins
WPDE NewsChannel 15
Bob Jewell
Brookgreen Gardens
Eileen Kim
Edward Jones
Mike LaPier
Myrtle Beach International Airport
Mark Lazarus
Wild Water & Wheels
Jay Patrick
Boardwalk Beach Resort
Pete Pearce
Myrtle Beach National
Ebbie Phillips
Tyson Sign Co.
Chamber Events
Discover more networking events at
All employees of a Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce member business
are invited and encouraged to participate in all chamber events.
May 1, 8:30-10 a.m.
May 16, 8-9:30 a.m.
Meet the Candidates Breakfast
Sponsored by North Strand Council
B-to-B Connects
MBACC Boardroom, 1200 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach
Ocean Creek Resort, 10600 N. Kings Hwy., Myrtle Beach
Meet the candidates running for Horry County State Senate
District 28 and Horry County State House District 104. Each
candidate will deliver a brief keynote address to give you an
idea of who they are and what they are passionate about.
Don’t miss this opportunity to meet the people you will be
voting for in the upcoming election.
Free, value-added benefit of chamber membership
Register at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com
May 3, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Business Aer Hours
Pirate Adventures of
Myrtle Beach
4123 Hwy. 17 Business, Murrells Inlet
Pirate Adventures welcomes you aboard their ship, the
Sea Gypsy, for a short cruise while enjoying pirate Grog and
hors d’oeuvres under their popular tiki bar! Pirate Adventures
is a children’s interactive pirate ship excursion in search of
sunken treasure. This is an adult members only event.
Registration Deadline: May 1
May 8, 4:30-6 p.m.
Behind the Scenes
Froyoz Frozen Yogurt
B-to-B Connects is a networking event designed to gain you
referrals that mean business. Participants will have 2 to 3
minutes to present their business to members. This event is
limited to a small number of attendees for a more intimate
networking experience. Coffee, donuts and contacts ...
what else could you ask for? Bring lots of business cards
and brochures to promote your product!
May 17, 4:30-7 p.m.
WonderWorks
1313 Celebrity Cir.
Broadway at the Beach
Myrtle Beach
WonderWorks is an “amusement park for the mind,”
combining education and entertainment in more than 100
hands-on exhibits. Network with chamber members, sample
tasty hors d’oeuvres and refreshing spirits while enjoying the
outdoor deck. This is an adult members only event.
May 29, 9 a.m./June 26, 3 p.m.
1316 Celebrity Cir., Broadway at
the Beach, Myrtle Beach
Chamber Access – Member Orientation
Your All Access Pass to the Chamber
With more than 60 flavors and
80 toppings, such as fresh fruit, candies,
nuts, cereals, syrups and sauces, to choose
from, the possibilities of frozen yogurt
sundaes are endless! Froyoz has sugar-free
and lactose-free options, and their entire
yogurt is Kosher.
If you are a new member or a new
employee, sign up for Chamber Access to get the inside scoop
on your chamber benefits. And for members who have not
been active, attending Chamber Access is the perfect way to
get reacquainted and updated on all the new benefits!
MBACC Boardroom
1200 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach
Register at ChamberAcademy.com
Grand Strander
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Taking Care of Business
Programs and services to help small businesses grow and succeed
U.S. Chamber
• Small Business Toolkits – Explore the toolkits ranging
from competitive benefits and coaching employees to
purchasing and inventory management decisions.
• Small Business Community Section
- Ask the Experts features questions asked by you
and addressed by chamber issue and policy experts
through video;
- Key Findings from the Quarterly Small Business
Outlook Surveys; and
- Frequently Asked Questions, where you can submit
questions regarding your business to the U.S. Chamber
and get answers immediately.
Your Myrtle Beach Area
Chamber of Commerce is going
to great lengths to prepare
a membership program that
meets your small business
needs. Your free membership
in the U.S. Chamber of
Commerce offers you a set of
resources to help build and
grow your business.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce membership offers great
benefits, including:
• Small Business Nation – Email updates on legislation
that affects your business.
• Free Enterprise Weekly – Free up your time to manage
your business. Get the latest small business news delivered
to your inbox.
Use your U.S. Chamber member number to access
the benefits and log into the Small Business Center at
USChamber.com. If you did not receive your U.S. Chamber
membership number via email, contact the U.S. Chamber
customer service at (800) 638-6582 or email
[email protected].
Learn More: MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on
Member Benefits/Save Money
Advertising online
by Blakely Jenkins, IOM, MBACC membership
& community programs manager
It’s not just enough anymore to have a website for your business, you have to get out there and take advantage of all the
ways to advertise online. According to DigitalTrends.com the average person now spends more than 30 hours a month online.
That’s a lot of time that you can be advertising
to a potential consumer or customer and you
don’t even have to leave your office!
To find out all the ways to advertise online,
from online communities to managing
customer data, go to inc.com/guides/
marketing.
Read more Small Business Buzz articles at
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com/member/small_
business_buzz.html.
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Focus on ...
Ethics Review Committee
The Ethics Review Committee is a joint
committee of the Myrtle Beach Area
Chamber of Commerce and Myrtle
Beach Area Hospitality Association,
working cooperatively to maintain ethical
business standards in the Grand Strand
community.
According to Frans Mustert, chairman
of the MBACC/MBAHA Ethics Review
Committee, the Ethics Review Committee
is charged with maintaining a fair and
equal business environment among its
members. The committee ensures that
customary acceptable business practices
are exercised in dealing with clients,
customers and visitors.
“The committee’s mission is to safeguard
the integrity of the membership of
the chamber of commerce without
compromise,” Mustert explained. “Over
the last 10 years, we’ve seen a continuous
decrease in complaints and an increase
in compliance and response to negative
comments received by Myrtle Beach
Area Chamber of Commerce and Myrtle
Beach Area Hospitality Association which
indicates that the committee is successful
in its mission.”
To learn more about the Ethics Review
Committee and the Lodging Code of
Ethics, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com/
about/code_of_ethics.html.
Ethics Review Committee
Frans Mustert .......................................................................Chairman, Oceana Resorts
Richard Arsenault ..................................................................... Landmark Resort Hotel
Vicki Blair ................................S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control
Ed Bodie ................................................................................................... Santee Cooper
Brad Dean....................................................Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
Jim Eggen ................................................................................................... Avista Resort
Kathy Graham ............................................................................ Better Business Bureau
Heith Grant ........................................................................Grant’s Furniture & Interiors
Diana Greene ..............................................Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
Stephen Greene ..........................................Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association
Tom Leath ......................................................................................City of Myrtle Beach
Chuck Martino ...................................................................Chuck Martino & Associates
Tom Moore ...............................................................Hampton Inn & Suites Oceanfront
Joe Perl ................................................................................................Myrtle Beach Mall
Eugene Silvestri .................................................................. Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort
Preferred Customer
HOW MUCH
DOES A VISITOR
SPEND
PER DAY?
What percentage of the Grand
Strand’s visitors are under the
age of 65? How does the cost of
living in Myrtle Beach compare
with the rest of the nation?
Discover the answers to these
questions plus a whole lot more
in the just released Statistical
Abstract for the Myrtle Beach
Area of South Carolina.
Produced by the chamber’s
marketing research department,
the 21st edition of the Statistical
Abstract contains resident
demographic statistics, labor
information, construction news
and more. Check it out at
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com,
click on Research & Statistics.
10% Discount
5% Discount
Liquor, Wine and Mixers
Tobacco and Beer
Visit us on Facebook
BeachDiscountBeverages.com
(843) 916-9542
220 4 N . K in gs H w y. , Myrt l e Be a ch , S C 2 9 5 7 7
Grand Strander
5
Join the next class of LGS
Recruitment is underway for the 33rd class of
Leadership Grand Strand. You’ll get an in-depth
view of the community, develop leadership skills,
and find new opportunities for involvement during
this nine-month program.
Leadership Grand Strand is unlike other programs because
it provides participants with the opportunity to meet and
discuss issues with key community leaders. Participants
study the qualities that make an effective leader, analyze
individual leadership roles, and develop personal leadership
styles and skills. They are then challenged to apply their
talents by joining professional associations, civic clubs,
public boards and commissions.
Beginning with a mandatory orientation in August, an
overnight retreat in September, and following up with one
full-day (8 hours) session per month from October to May
and 100 hours of community service, the program features
prominent presenters who encourage discussion and
participation.
Applications for the 2012-2013 Leadership Grand Strand
program are at LeadershipGrandStrand.com. Tuition runs
$890. Scholarship opportunities are available. For more
information, visit LeadershipGrandStrand.com. Applications
for Leadership Grand Stand Class XXXIII are being accepted
through June 30.
Call for Community Service
Project Proposals
Leadership Grand Strand is accepting proposals for
community service projects for Class XXXIII. Nonprofits and
government agencies are encouraged to submit a proposal
that addresses specific needs your organization is facing as
it seeks to help our community. Projects over the years have
varied widely. They can be anything that involves hands-on
volunteer hours. Examples of past projects include design
and implementation of a conference, improvement of a local
animal shelter, providing assistance to a program for abused
children, building or repairing homes, etc.
For complete proposal guidelines, visit
LeadershipGrandStrand.com. All proposals
are due by June 1, 2012.
Tourism Week Continued From Cover
summer, MBACC and Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality
Association will once again extend a big “Thank You for
Visiting” to those choosing the Grand Strand as their
vacation destination. Tourists flying into the area will
receive a warm hello from local entertainment at the
Myrtle Beach International Airport. The chamber’s Oak
Street and Murrells Inlet welcome centers will be serving
complimentary refreshments.
In addition, the chamber has mailed “Thank You for Visiting”
static cling decals to members to place on their business
windows or
automobiles
to thank
tourists for
choosing the
Grand Strand
destination. To download the “Thank You for Visiting”
message to your website or use on stationery and flyers,
visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com. MBACC also will be
featuring advertisements in local newspapers and billboards
that draw attention to the importance of travel and tourism
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throughout our community. Plus TourismWorksForUs.com
shares with locals and others the importance of tourism for
everyone.
Vote Travel Bus Tour
The U.S. Travel Association’s
Vote Travel Bus Tour across
America aims to raise
awareness on the impact of
travel during the 2012 election
season.
The 20,000-mile tour will
incorporate major rallies in
selected cities, as well as meetings with local elected officials
and travel industry leaders. The Vote Travel rally will stop in
Myrtle Beach on May 17 (location yet to be determined at
time of press). Find the current schedule, which is subject to
change, at http://votetravel.org/latest-events. Please check
back oen for updates.
Message to Our Members
Despite the partisan politics centering about this year’s
election, there should be one issue on which we all can
agree: We need to get America moving.
I can think of no better way to do this than through the
power of travel.
National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), which will
be held May 5-13, 2012, provides a fitting occasion to
shine the spotlight on our industry. This year’s U.S. Travel
Association’s Tourism Week theme is Vote Travel.
While we welcome local residents and visitors year round to
enjoy all that our region has to offer, Tourism Week brings
additional focus to the economic impact of the tourism
industry in the Myrtle Beach area.
Spirit of Hospitality
an integral part of the economic engine of tourism.
(To learn more on how tourism positively impacts all
of us, visit TourismWorksForUs.com.)
“Those who say you can’t take it
with you never saw a car packed
for a vacation trip.”
– Anonymous
Most of you have probably already heard that the
chamber’s board of directors have suspended certain
events this year that are not self-sustaining and do not
maintain the goals of the board or the best interests of
our membership. This does not mean that the spring and
summer events calendar is dry. In fact, it’s more alive than
ever. All you have to do is visit GrandStrandEvents.com or
ArtsAtTheBeach.com to see the wide collection of activities
still in store for our visitors.
So as we put out the welcome mat for our visitors this
season, let’s remember that the best way to ensure that
tourism continues to benefit the Grand Strand is for each
of us to be ambassadors of the Myrtle Beach area. Greet
our visitors and thank them for visiting the Grand Strand.
As we all know, the Myrtle Beach area relies heavily upon a
vibrant economy centered on its 14 million visitors and
$7 billion tourism industry and the real estate industry
(which is closely tied to the tourism industry). With
two-thirds of the workforce directly involved in tourism,
National Tourism Week provides the perfect opportunity
for the chamber and our members to express appreciation
to the Myrtle Beach area travelers who have made
this growth possible! And this also is a chance for
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber to say thank you to the
hundreds of small business owners in the area who are
While it may be our wonderful attractions and beautiful
beaches that bring them here the first time, it is the smiling
faces and warm Southern hospitality they experience that
will bring them back a second, third or fourth time.
Brad Dean
President & CEO
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
Grand Strander
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Featuring music, parade, military salutes, races, food, wine, film and more!
Beach Blast!
Christian
Music Festival
The 2012 Myrtle
Beach MayFest
kicks off with the
sounds of the
hugely popular
Beach Blast.
Last summer more than 8,500 music fans packed the
downtown Myrtle Beach area to hear the sounds of their
favorite Christain music artist. The Christian Music Festival
plans to do it again in 2012 with a lineup of great artists
and a day full of festivities.
On Saturday, May 19, TobyMac returns to Beach Blast!
Christian Music Festival, along with Third Day, RED, Jamie
Grace, Royal Tailor, emcee KJ-52, motivational speaker
Nick Hall, plus a new and exciting feature – Outcast BMX,
a freestyle bicycle stunt team. Join us for a day of music
and fun, including exciting oceanfront activities by Beach
Activities Inc., in downtown Myrtle Beach between 8th
and 9th avenues north on Ocean Boulevard. Tickets on
sale at MyrtleBeachMayFest.com.
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce is a proud
sponsor of the Beach Blast! Christian Music Festival.
Memorial Day Weekend Parade
Everyone loves a parade especially one with military units,
high school marching bands, antique cars, walking groups,
floats and more! The 2012 Memorial Day Weekend
Parade will be held May 26 starting at 10 a.m. at 27th
avenue north and continuing south to 9th avenue north in
downtown Myrtle Beach.
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eachAreaChamber.com
If your business is interested in sponsoring a float
for military and veteran groups or entering the
parade and promoting your business or group, go to
MyrtleBeachMayFest.com/memorial_day_weekend_
parade.html. The parade entry deadline is May 11.
Parade Grand Marshal
This year, Maj. Gen. Robert E.
Livingston, Jr., the Adjutant
General for South Carolina,
is serving as the Parade
Marshal for the Memorial Day
Weekend Parade. Maj. Gen.
Livingston serves as head of
the Military Department of
the state of South Carolina. He
administers the affairs of the
South Carolina Army and Air
National Guard, Emergency
Management Division, State Guard, Youth Challenge
and Americorp. Read more about Maj. Gen. Livingston
at MyrtleBeachMayFest.com/memorial_day_weekend_
parade.html.
Renew Continued From Cover
business members during these previous years of
challenging economic times.
Commerce. More businesses, more residents, more visitors,
more people shopping in our community will mean
more business for you. If you share this view, renew your
membership today!
The chamber has held on as long as it could but is
challenged to deliver the services requested by the
membership, the visitors, and the community. Therefore,
members renewing for 2012-2013 will notice a 2 percent
increase in dues.
Renewal notice in the mail
“When it comes to return on investment, the Myrtle
Beach Area Chamber of Commerce gives you a lot of bang
for your buck,” noted Richard Singleton, chairman of
the MBACC board of directors. ”The nominal increase in
membership dues will allow the chamber to continue to
provide cost-effective programs and services that support
all members.”
Lost your invoice? Contact Pat Creed, membership services
manager, at [email protected] or
(843) 916-7225.
A Guide to Going into Business in the Myrtle Beach Area
If you are thinking of starting a business of your own in the Myrtle Beach area, there
are a few things to consider as you move forward. The Myrtle Beach area has no single
business license that will ensure compliance with the numerous state licenses, permits, and
regulatory requirements. Additionally, your business may be subject to local and/or federal
requirements. Simply knowing which agencies to contact for all of these permits can be a
very confusing task for a new entrepreneur.
Click on the links below for more information.
What type of business organization are you going to be or are you?
1. You can find a list of different types including Sole Proprietorship, Partnership,
Corporation and Limited Liability Company at
http://www.sctax.org/Publications/startbusns.htm
Look for your membership renewal notice to arrive in your
mailbox soon. And don’t forget about the New Member
Referral Program where you can save $25 off your renewal
(go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com for details).
Renew your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
membership during May and you’ll be entered into a
drawing for a package valued at $1,189.
• 1/4 Page Advertisement in the Grand Strander.
Ad will run for three months – $600
• Member-to-Member Email Blast – $300
• Membership List on Disk – $100
• Two Tickets to Annual Meeting – October 2012 – $90
• Booth at Business Expo – January 2013 – $99
2. If you are not sure what type of business you will have OR not sure of how to
register your business visit
https://www.scbos.sc.gov/SCBOS_Library/Frequently_Asked_
Questions.aspx that will give you all the information needed to get started.
I know where my business is located/where I am doing business,
where do I get to get my business license?
1. If you are located in Horry County, but NOT in any other municipality (see example)
http://www.horrycounty.org/depts/finance/business.asp
2. If you are located within the city limits of Myrtle Beach
http://www.cityofmyrtlebeach.com/businessinfo.html
3. If you are located within the city limits of North Myrtle Beach
http://www.nmb.us/Page.aspx?id=15
4. If you are located within the city limits of Conway
http://www.cityofconway.com/index.html and click on “Forms”
New benefits last year included the popular online Going Into
Business Guide.
“The chamber’s staff remains committed to promoting,
protecting and improving the Grand Strand and its
business community,” added Shannon Detzler, chairwoman
of MBACC’s membership committee. “Investing in Myrtle
Beach Area Chamber of Commerce membership plays an
important role in the continued growth and prosperity of
the area.”
Your chamber investment impacts education, public policy,
regional advancement and many other areas of growth
for our region. But our success is tied to your success.
Progress comes from local business leaders like you working
together through your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of
A spectacular riverboat tour on the Intracoastal
Waterway was not the only lively entertainment
at the March Behind the Scenes on the Barefoot
Princess Riverboat. Along with Behind the Scenes,
MBACC continues to add new networking events
to its menu of benefits, including B-to-B Connects,
a quarterly event where members present their
products/services in front of member participants.
Grand Strander
9
The not so new kid on the block
by Anita Minervino, owner/president, Coastal Pure
We are Myrtle Beach! Tourism is in our DNA. Year round
we roll out the sandy red carpet to welcome millions of
visitors who choose to spend their vacation in our zip code.
Aer all, it’s what we do best! World-class lodging, dining,
beaches, golf, shopping and entertainment. We have it all!
Or do we? Before we take a bow for being at the top of our
game for everything tourism, we need to ask ourselves if we
are preparing for one of the fastest growing tourism sectors
worldwide; the not so new kid on the block ... sustainable
tourism.
hospitality facilities with their efforts to be sustainable. The
application is divided into nine environmental categories that
cover the overall operations of a facility. Each environmental
category has a list of environmentally friendly actions that
have specific point values.
Sustainability is a growing trend in all industries and is now
finding its way into mainstream tourism. There are a myriad
of definitions for sustainable tourism, including eco-tourism,
green travel, environmentally and culturally responsible
tourism.
Tourism will never be completely sustainable as every
industry has impacts, but with your efforts, it can work
toward becoming more sustainable.
The most widely accepted definition comes from Wikipedia:
“Sustainable tourism is attempting to make a low impact on
the environment and local culture, while helping to generate
future employment for local people.”
For many businesses and organizations, the idea of becoming
sustainable can seem intimidating. Knowing how to begin
incorporating sustainability can be difficult.
For starters, cra a formal environmental and social policy
including sustainability as part of your business’ mission or
vision statement.
Next pledge to support locally-owned
businesses: Small businesses are more likely
to support other businesses within the
community, care for their environment and
conduct business in an environmentallyresponsible way. They also work harder for
your business, contribute more to charitable
causes, create more jobs, limit outsourcing
and keep money circulating within a
community. Sustainable communities rely
on locally-owned businesses to prevail. And
locally-owned businesses rely on you to
succeed. It is important to remember that
sustainability is a way of doing business,
not a destination.
Next, take a look at the South Carolina Green
Hospitality Alliance program offered by the
Department of Health and Environmental
Control. This program is designed to help
hotels, motels, restaurants and other
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MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.c
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has a program
in place to encourage, reward and guide your sustainability
efforts. Learn more at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click
on the Going Green icon.
Benjamin Franklin once said, “Well done is better than
well said.” Don’t just talk the talk, walk the walk. Make a
difference today.
Note: In keeping with MBACC’s commitment to helping companies
implement green thinking in their day-to-day operations and
employees’ lifestyles at work and in the community, the Grand
Strander will periodically include conservation articles from guest
writers. Coastal Pure is the local authorized dealer for the most
advanced non-chemical chlorine free ionization technology for
natural pure water. Cut your commercial chemical operating
expenses by more than 50 percent. Coastal Pure provides a DHEC
compliant alternative water treatment for swimming pools, spas,
fountains and commercial applications. The Healthy Pool Pros,
CoastalPure.com.
Connecting members
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce ambassadors are
a group of dedicated volunteers from various businesses
throughout the Myrtle Beach community. Ambassadors
serve as a liaison between MBACC and our members. Their
mission is to welcome, nurture and recruit new chamber
members, act as goodwill representatives at various
chamber functions, and aid in the support of members.
If you’re a smiling face that wants to make new friends
and contacts, gain business exposure and share the
benefits of chamber membership, it’s easy to become an
ambassador. Visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click
on Member Benefits/Ambassador Program and complete
the short application. To learn more about the program,
visit the website or contact Pat Creed, membership
services manager, at (843) 916-7225 or Pat.Creed@
VisitMyrtleBeach.com.
MARCH FEBRUARY
Ambassadors of the Month
Adam VanLandingham
with Waccamaw
Mechanical
Services LLC earned
Ambassador of the
Month for February.
VanLandingham is
serving his first year
as an ambassador.
Jay Mulligan with Jordan
and Sons Plumbing
earned the second
highest total points for
February. Mulligan is
serving his first year as
an ambassador
Loretta Thompson
with Loretta
Thompson
Photography earned
Ambassador of the
Month for March.
Thompson is serving
her first year as an
ambassador.
Kathy Keene with
Regenerating PBS
Wristband earned the
second highest total
points for March. Keene
is serving her third year
as an ambassador.
MBACC names new executive vice president of finance
Jim Wright has joined Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of
Commerce as the new executive vice president of finance.
Wright has approximately 30 years of senior and executive
management experience in both private industry and
public accounting. Wright previously worked for Wellman
Plastics Recycling LLC in Johnsonville, S.C., and Classic
Home Building & Design in Myrtle Beach.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jim to our team,” said Brad
Dean, MBACC president and CEO. “Jim has the insight,
expertise and drive required to oversee Myrtle Beach Area
Chamber of Commerce’s financial activities, which are
integral to our continued growth and success.”
Wright is responsible for human resources, information
technology and accounting operations, including annual
budgets and forecasts, and the annual audit.
A graduate of Mount
St. Mary’s University in
Emmitsburg, Md., Wright
received a bachelor’s degree
in accounting. He obtained
his CPA designation in 1983.
Wright resides in North
Myrtle Beach with his wife
of 15 years, Anne.
“I am extremely happy to
be at the Myrtle Beach
Area Chamber of Commerce
applying my 30 years of business, finance, and accounting
expertise to assist in furthering the chamber‘s mission,”
Wright noted.
Grand Strander
11
PR Hotspot
Myrtle Beach PR team circling the globe
with media outreach in five cities
by Kimberly Miles, public relations representative for Myrtle Beach Area Chamber/Convention and Visitors Bureau and
senior account specialist with Fahlgren Mortine
The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce/Convention
and Visitors Bureau public relations team has been busy.
Since January, the team has conducted media outreach
in New York City, Washington, D.C. and Montreal with
upcoming visits scheduled for Dallas and Atlanta. The
New York City media visit consisted of in-person media
appointments as well as an interactive Coastal Carolina
Cuisine culinary cooking dinner with publications such as
Ladies Home Journal, Fodors Travel, Saveur and Travel and
Leisure magazine.
Chef James Clark from The Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
talks about Carolina Coastal Cuisine to a group of
journalists in New York City.
Chef James Clark from Waterscapes at The Marina Inn at
Grande Dunes led the cooking class teaching the media in
attendance about the unique Carolina Coastal cuisine of the
region. Outreach in Washington, D.C. consisted of visits
with About.com, The Washington Post and U.S. News and
World Report among others.
For the first time in the history of the CVB, we did proactive
media outreach in
Montreal, Canada.
Primarily a French
speaking city, we
had the pleasure
of having Chef
Eric Masson,
owner and chef
of the Brentwood
Restaurant in
Little River who
Chef Eric Masson of the Brentwood
is originally from
Restaurant in Little River, S.C.,
demonstrating his Crab Cake Dijonnaise
France join us for
media appointments to an audience at the National Women’s
Show in Montreal.
as well as prepare
12
mber.com
a special Carolina Coastal dish at a media dinner and do a
cooking demonstration at the National Women’s Show. Two
French trade publications covered our visit and many firsttime meetings were held with publications such as enRoute
Magazine, ELLE
Quebec and
Montreal’s largest
French daily
newspaper
La Presse-Voyage.
At least once
a year, it’s
important to keep
Myrtle Beach
top of mind with Media in New York City cooking the first
course of their dinner during an interactive
national travel
cooking class led my Chef James Clark.
media by either
visiting media in
their offices or bringing a unique Myrtle Beach experience
to them to help generate story ideas and future coverage.
These visits have a proven track record of directly resulting
in media coverage for the Myrtle Beach area or sparking an
in market media hosting.
Another first time ever media visit is scheduled for Dallas
in time for the launch of new direct service from Dallas to
Myrtle Beach with Spirit Airlines. Updates are forthcoming
for the Dallas visit as well as a visit to Atlanta.
What would you like to learn or see in a future PR Hotspot?
Want to be involved in this area’s public relations efforts?
Have a PR related question? You can reach Kimberly Miles
or anyone on the PR team at Fahlgren Mortine by emailing
[email protected].
Print and Online Publicity Values
March 2012
Type
Impressions Ad Value
Equivalency
Internet
410,806,489 $4,799,222
Print
5,925,371
$519,501
Not Available $48,118
Other
Total for March 416,731,860 $5,366,841
Total Impressions to Date: 1,046,840,227
Total Ad Value Equivalency
to Date: $82,504,179
Myrtle Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
INSIDER
May 2012
Growing Visitors’ Interest Through
Digital Marketing
by Mary Mroz, MBACC/CVB
marketing specialist
In January’s issue of the CVB Insider, executive vice
president of marketing Scott Schult shared “what has
us excited about 2012,” where he highlighted several
initiatives we are implementing including social media,
mobile marketing and video promotion.
Let me share my excitement to be a part of this
organization. Living in the Myrtle Beach area since
1993, I have been a supporter since I arrived. I have had
the opportunity to be a Myrtle Beach Area Chamber
of Commerce member as well as a Myrtle Beach Area
Convention and Visitors Bureau member and advertiser.
I have sat on committees and worked with this
organization as they have grown and kept ahead of the
curve leading the way not only in this market but above
and beyond other markets. I’m fortunate enough now
to get to help lead alongside the CVB and implement
the plans that create awareness of our fabulous town,
and help bring new visitors here.
We have continued to increase visitors to the
destination’s website, VisitMyrtleBeach.com, by
VisitMyrtleBeach.com
integrating the same message in different ways through
different mediums. Whether you see a TV spot, read
posts on Facebook or are searching for travel sites, the
same overall message is conveyed – Visit Myrtle Beach!
In the first quarter of 2012, we have expanded our TV
coverage from 14 to 75 markets with a message to book
your spring or summer vacation. We’re also running
these videos on various websites in similar markets for
the greatest impact and reach. Also during the first
quarter, we ended our $500 Beach House Giveaway and
$500 Vacation Gi Card Giveaway. Both sweepstakes
were a huge success in building awareness, driving traffic
to VisitMyrtleBeach.com and helping build our database.
Winners from both contests have been notified and one
winner, first-time visitors Paul and Irene from Georgia,
has already visited and sent a lovely thank you note!
We continue to keep our video library stocked as we get
ready for a spring video shoot and are eager to show
fresh new angles and elements of the Grand Strand
featuring local residents in our advertising spots. With
Growing Visitors’ Interest, See Insider Back Cover
May 2012
HORRY COUNTY ADMISSIONS TAX
14.5%
$1,700,000
$1,500,000
$750,000
$450,000
Percentages
Shown Are
Percent Change
From Previous
Year
-0.1%
3.1%
14.8%
$1,200,000
7.4%
-6.2%
9.7%
13.1%
1.6%
-0.4%
23.5%
2.3%
$0
Feb 11
Mar 11
Apr 11
May 11
Jun 11
Jul 11
Aug 11
Sep 11
Oct 11
Nov 11
Dec 11
Jan 12
$303,248
$593,991
$1,020,181
$668,014
$1,206,382
$1,673,151
$1,250,676
$648,313
$649,615
$465,210
$440,412
$221,208
GEORGETOWN COUNTY ADMISSIONS TAX
$150,000
-2.4%
$120,000
7.8%
-2.8%
-2.7%
$90,000
Convention & Visitors Bureau
$50,000
20.3%
3.8%
14.9%
26.4%
-17.5%
-11.5%
50.2%
-19.0%
$0
Feb 11
Mar 11
Apr 11
May 11
Jun 11
Jul 11
Aug 11
Sep 11
Oct 11
Nov 11
Dec 11
Jan 12
$40,876
$95,139
$138,930
$102,536
$64,305
$55,482
$44,549
$66,075
$94,586
$51,906
$44,083
$25,144
HORRY COUNTY ACCOMMODATIONS TAX COLLECTION
4.9%
$4,200,000
2.1%
$3,200,000
$2,200,000
$1,200,000
$0
29.4%
16.0%
Percentages
Shown Are
Percent Change
From Previous
Year
1.9%
7.1%
8.9%
15.6%
5.2%
-4.4%
14.2%
14.9%
Feb 11
Mar 11
Apr 11
May 11
Jun 11
Jul 11
Aug 11
Sep 11
Oct 11
Nov 11
Dec 11
Jan 12
$407,688
$759,711
$1,295,854
$1,303,728
$2,543,607
$3,924,032
$2,468,061
$1,366,211
$739,320
$458,454
$307,676
$267,848
GEORGETOWN COUNTY ACCOMMODATIONS TAX COLLECTION
1.6%
$420,000
$320,000
9.3%
0.0%
$220,000
$120,000
$0
-6.1%
18.4%
44.8%
2.2%
1.2%
-4.4%
15.1%
47.7%
4.7%
Feb 11
Mar 11
Apr 11
May 11
Jun 11
Jul 11
Aug 11
Sep 11
Oct 11
Nov 11
Dec 11
Jan 12
$20,666
$48,551
$88,749
$100,850
$252,603
$404,842
$253,945
$122,165
$62,300
$38,756
$23,651
$18,229
HORRY COUNTY GROSS RETAIL SALES
$1,100,000,000
1.6%
$850,000,000
$650,000,000
18.0%
16.8%
4.2%
-7.7%
7.8%
-4.6%
0.6%
-31.7%
-16.3%
-8.3%
-9.4%
$450,000,000
$0
Feb 11
Mar 11
Apr 11
May 11
Jun 11
Jul 11
Aug 11
Sep 11
Oct 11
Nov 11
Dec 11
Jan 12
$598,822,943
$748,376,097
$459,419,208
$688,160,544
$872,199,417
$1,014,810,293
$851,606,942
$801,891,704
$617,471,174
$554,726,964
$622,177,947
$485,036,510
Percentages
Shown Are
Percent
Change From
Previous Year
GEORGETOWN COUNTY GROSS RETAIL SALES
$130,000,000
$100,000,000
20.6%
-6.1%
1.8%
5.5%
7.3%
-5.2%
4.9%
5.7%
-2.0%
-19.5%
-10.2%
-36.3%
$75,000,000
$35,000,000
$0
Feb 11
Mar 11
Apr 11
May 11
Jun 11
Jul 11
Aug 11
Sep 11
Oct 11
Nov 11
Dec 11
Jan 12
$89,502,765
$116,056,855
$66,138,052
$103,917,745
$126,681,554
$128,995,594
$113,227,615
$105,045,379
$98,930,809
$89,532,305
$100,504,560
$79,245,544
For more information regarding additional research conducted by the chamber, contact Wendy Bernstein at [email protected].
Sources: S.C. Departments of PRT and Revenue
May 2012
UNIQUE User Sessions
ADVERTISER Referrals
1,000,000
2011
1,200,000
2011
800,000
2012
1,000,000
2012
600,000
YTD Referral
Click % Change*
600,000
Category
400,000
400,000
200,000
0
200,000
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
0
Jan
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Feb
Mar
% Change
33.56%
Jan
32.19%
45.59%
2012
641,377
777,006
963,847
2011
480,220
Jul
Apr
587,796
662,043
Aug
Sep
May
Jun
617,618
754,977
1,009,894
Oct
Nov
Dec
% Change
Feb
Mar
25.57%
20.03%
Apr
May
Jun
% Change
17.20%
2012
600,449
708,807
939,597
2011
512,349
564,459
782,796
685,224
812,265
1,198,706
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
+19.32%
Amusements
+15.76%
Theaters
+17.14%
Dining
+25.68%
Shopping
+10.14%
Watersports
+26.11%
Weddings
+48.12%
Golf
% Change
-8.54%
Addt’l Services
+28.96%
Fishing
+29.01%
2012
2011
% Change
Lodging
*Jan. 1-Mar. 31, 2012
1,146,291 627,023
337,084
219,592
169,846 199,230
2012
2011
1,003,473
697,852
439,696
369,014
290,808
336,994
For more information, contact: [email protected]
OCCUPANCY PERCENT PER ROOM WEEK*
AVERAGE DAILY RATE PER ROOM WEEK*
(Feb. 4, 2012 - Mar. 17, 2012)
(Feb. 4, 2012 - Mar. 17, 2012)
100%
0%
$150
$100
50%
0%
DOLLARS
PERCENT
75%
5%
40.37%
39.27%
25%
5%
$75
$61.56
$59.92
$50
$25
0%
$0
2011
Jan
Feb
2012
20.8%
33.4%
2011
21.0%
2010
2012
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
32.20%
45.10%
58.10%
50.90%
73.60%
21.40%
29.60%
44.90%
54.20%
47.40%
77.40%
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
2011
Jan
Feb
2012
$49.90
$55.09
2011
$50.53
2010
$46.31
Mar
Apr
$55.64
$68.70
$54.26
$69.84
Jul
Aug
Sep
2011
$162.14
$125.97
$86.22
$69.99
$57.82
$53.33
2010
$147.28
$120.79
$85.73
$71.18
$57.68
$53.11
2012
2011
88.00%
73.30%
59.20%
45.10%
31.70%
22.80%
2010
91.50%
76.10%
59.80%
43.60%
31.60%
19.70%
FEBRUARY AIRPORT ARRIVALS**
2012
May
Jun
$86.99
$100.14
$129.45
$85.48
$90.29
$121.07
Oct
Nov
Dec
2012
120,000
0
*Dr. Taylor Damonte, Director
Clay Brittain, Jr. Center for Resort Tourism
Coastal Carolina University
[email protected]
0
100,000
A R R I VA L S
0
80,000
**Source: Horry County Department of Airports
0
60,000
0
40,000
HELP US HELP YOU
0
20,000
Provide data to CCU
0
2011
Arrivals
2012
2011
2012
Change
34,911
36,231
3.8%
By sending in your weekly numbers, you will be providing valuable data that
helps us to keep updated information. For more information, please contact
Dr. Taylor Damonte, director of Clay Brittain, Jr. Center for Resort Tourism at
Coastal Carolina University, [email protected].
May 2012
YEAR OVER YEAR
800,000
Growing Visitors’ Interest
Continued From Insider Cover
this shoot we are specifically hoping to capture genuine
smiles and enthusiasm of diverse, multigenerational
families spending time together making memories for
the future. Who could ask for a better vacation than that?
We offer our co-op program to CVB members and
advertisers providing an opportunity to take advantage
of discounted rates and stretch your advertising budgets.
During the first quarter we had several delivered,
including Guest Quest delivered to 80,000 homes in
Co-op Corner
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce advertising
co-ops provide an opportunity to take advantage of
negotiated discounted rates in order to stretch ad budgets.
The range of co-ops available include a variety of online
promotions, email blasts, magazines and newspaper
inserts. Also, the chamber will provide online creative
support if needed by participants.
To learn more about these opportunities, contact Lynne
Boykin, The Brandon Agency, at (843) 916-2000 or
[email protected]. For a complete list of
co-ops, go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click on
Marketing Strategies. Space is limited for each co-op and
will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. To secure
the discounted rates, each co-op must sell out in order for
it to run. Note: In order to participate, chamber members
must also be CVB members or advertisers.
each of three areas – North Carolina, New York and
Pennsylvania. Be sure to take a look at the Co-op
Corner in this month’s issue or for a complete list,, go to
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click on Marketing
eting
Strategies.
Feel free to visit MyrtleBeachAreaMarketing.com to view
our latest updates and all ongoing marketing campaigns.
Destinations – The Official Publication of the
American Business Association
Destinations magazine is the premier glossy in the
group tour industry with award-winning design and
writing. The bimonthly features extensive coverage of
North America’s best group travel destinations, stateby-state travel/itinerary options, planning calendars
of ABA Top 100 events, motorcoach and tour operator
business tips, plus essential marketing and strategic
insights. Destinations is considered a must-read for
18,125 industry leaders. Destinations is available online
and in print.
Timing: July/August
Deadline for Space: June 1, 2012
Deadline for Materials: June 8, 2012
Circulation: 7,325
Member Cost: $1,095
Ad Specs: 1/4 page, 3 7/8 x 4 3/4
Disclaimer: In order for this ad to run we must have a minimum
of four advertisers.
Where in the
world is the CVB?
May 16-19, 2012
Society of
Government
Meeting
Professionals
New Orleans, LA
CVB-Group Sales is busy this month welcoming
eight groups with 1,065 attendees.
Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Insider is published monthly by the
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, 1200 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577.
If you have story ideas or questions, contact Jason McCoy, CVB customer service manager, at [email protected].
Printed by Inlet Printing Co.
May 2012
Buying power!
Exclusive cost-savings benefits
for MBACC members
Leveraging tthe buying power of MBACC’s membership base helps members save on everything from
to health insurance. As a MBACC member, you’re eligible for the programs listed below
office supplies
sup
– all de
designed to put dollars back into your bottom line. Use these programs to offset expenses and
your membership can pay for itself. Learn more at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Member
you
Benefits/Save Money.
B
BlueCross
eCross Bl
BlueShield of South Carolina
Sam’s Club
BlueCrosss Blu
BlueShield of South Carolina
Business True Blue SM offers MBACC
members flexible options to build a
health care plan that works for you.
Both individual and group health
insurance plans are available. For
details about True Blue, contact your
local BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
office at (843) 444-9068.
MBACC members receive a
$25 or $10 gi card when you
sign up for a new Sam’s Club
membership or renew an existing
membership. Learn more at
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com,
click on Member Benefits/Save Money.
South Carolina Chamber of Commerce
Office Depot
Receive unbeatable
discounts on your
office supplies, office furniture, technology, copy/print,
and much more at Office Depot. To enroll, contact your
local Office Depot representative, Chris Trimby, at
(704) 969-4752, ext. 5027.
Fisher Recycling – Grand Strand
Fisher Recycling – Grand Strand
offers MBACC and
MBAHA/Hospitality
Partnership members
complimentary on-site waste
audits to create a customized recycling program for your
business. With a one-year Recycling Service Contract,
Fisher Recycling – Grand Strand offers members one free
pick up and one month of free recycling containers/bins.
To learn about recycling services, contact Kira Roff, owner/
president, at (843) 543-9811.
Member-to-Member Discounts
Designed to enhance your membership value, the
Member-to-Member Discounts program encourages
members to buy from other members to save money,
increase visibility and promote new business for their
companies. Learn more at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
As a member of the Myrtle
Beach Area Chamber of
Commerce you can enjoy
free electronic access to the South Carolina Chamber of
Commerce statewide grassroots lobbying and information
networks. To learn more about the program, call the
S.C. Chamber of Commerce at (803) 799-4601.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
As a small business member
of the Myrtle Beach Area
Chamber of Commerce, you
receive complimentary membership
in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The
U.S. Chamber serves as another voice
for your business. Learn more at
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on
Member Benefits/U.S. Chamber.
Hospitality Partnership Services
Need training resources?
Interested in “Green Clean
Safe” certification? Have a
question about identity the?
Visit HospitalityPartnership.com
for more information.
Grand Strander
13
Easter/Passover holidays, then and now
by Dr. Taylor Damonte, director, Clay Brittain Jr. Center for Resort Tourism, and Gary Lous, director, BB&T Center for
Economic and Community Development, E. Craig Wall Sr. College of Business Administration, Coastal Carolina University
It is difficult to compare business performance during the
Easter/Passover season along the Grand Strand from year
to year because of differences in the holiday calendar. Those
differences may also impact the scheduling of spring breaks,
which also impact occupancy levels and in turn, spending
in all kinds of local retail, entertainment, and recreation
business. That is why some local tourism analysts simply
average performance metrics for March and April together
for the purpose of year over year comparison. But that
approach to understanding the relative change in the level
of systemic demand for the area may overlook the variance
in performance that may occur expressly because the Easter/
Passover holiday fell earlier or later in one year than another.
Therefore, in order to understand the relative strength of
current lodging performance the table (below) shows hotel,
condo-hotel, and campsite performance averages for the
Easter/Passover period only during those years
(in the most recent decade) during which Easter
Sunday fell on the second Sunday of April. Those
years are 2007, 2009 and 2012.
Data from the Brittain Center’s sample of hotels,
condo-hotels, and campsites (monthly sample sizes
are shown in the CVB Insider) suggest that for the
week leading up to Easter, the midweek periods
(Sunday-Thursday) during 2012 were as strong or
stronger than in any year in recent history. Average
occupancy during the weekend (Friday-Saturday)
leading up to Easter also appears to be as high
or higher in 2012 than in 2007 and almost
5 occupancy points higher than it had been in
2009. Relative performance is a bit different than
that for the week beginning with Easter. The peek
for both average occupancy and ADR for that week
still seems to be 2007.
14
Nevertheless, performance averages for the overall two-week
Easter/Passover holiday period during 2012 appears to be
very close to the 2007 peek. In addition, we believe that total
lodging inventory has increased more than 25 percent since
2004. Though the Center’s research is not able to pinpoint
exactly how much of that increase in supply occurred
specifically between May of 2007 and April of 2012. Supply
increases during that period may well have been enough
to account for the small difference in average occupancy
reflected in the Center’s sample of properties in 2012
compared with 2007. To summarize, combined with strong
industry performance in March of this year (see table below),
lodging industry performance during the Easter/Passover
period this year suggests that the Myrtle Beach area may be
well on its way to working through the challenge of filling
the increased number of rooms available to rent.
&
Up Close
l
a
n
o
Pers
by Nora Battle,
media communications
manager
Bob Jewell
Bob Jewell with wife, Toni.
President and CEO of Brookgreen Gardens
Board Member
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Kansas City, Mo.; Decatur, Ill.; Los Angeles,
Calif.; and Milwaukee, Wis. (My parents were in the
witness protection program.) Just kidding!
What is your favorite thing about living in the
Myrtle Beach area?
Brookgreen Gardens, of course, but secondary to that
would be the beach and the beauty of the lowcountry.
Describe your perfect weekend.
My perfect weekend is spending time with Toni,
my wife of 42 years, and my kids.
Who is your role model and why?
My parents. They treated everyone with respect and
were committed to improving the quality of life for others.
If you were stranded on a desert island and could only
have three things with you, what would they be?
My family, lots of great books and food and wines.
What do you consider your greatest personal
accomplishment?
My greatest personal accomplishment is my three kids.
I am quite proud of the way they have turned out.
If you won the lottery today, what would be your
first purchase?
My first purchase would be golf lessons. I need more
than I can currently afford.
What is one of your greatest strengths?
My greatest strengths are my sense of humor and a
perspective on what is really important in life.
What is one of your greatest weaknesses?
I am not patient with people who don’t try and don’t
care about what they are doing.
What is your favorite quote?
“Improvise, adapt, overcome.”
What do you consider to be the best part of your job?
Other than just being at Brookgreen, the best part of
my job would be our staff and volunteers. They love
Brookgreen Gardens and it shows.
What motivates you to do your best?
I care, and I always ask the question, “Are you going to
get any better or is this it?”
Where is your favorite place to vacation and why?
California is my favorite place to vacation because
two of my three kids live there.
What is something that few people know about you?
I am very competitive.
Are you a dog or a cat person?
My cat, Max, has won me over.
If you were ice cream, what flavor would you be?
I would be chocolate chip.
What is your all-time favorite movie?
“Schindler’s List.”
If a movie were made about your life, who would you
cast to play yourself?
I would cast Robert Redford.
What qualities do you value most in others?
I value integrity most in others.
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
I was a night owl, but the life cycle is changing me,
and now I would consider myself a morning person.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Enjoying life and making a difference in all that I do.
What were your favorite subjects in school?
My favorite subjects were history, psychology
and macroeconomics.
What was the last book that you read?
“The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest” by Stieg Larsson.
If you weren’t in your current job/career, what do
you imagine yourself doing?
Brookgreen is my second career, and it is about as
good as it gets.
If you were a superhero, what would be your superhero
name and power?
I would be Superman, because he was always helping
people.
Grand Strander
15
&
Up Close
l
a
n
o
Pers
by Nora Battle,
media communications
manager
Shannon Furtick
Shannon Furtick with husband,
Barrett, and their dog Maxx.
Membership Programs & Services Coordinator
Where did you grow up?
What is your favorite quote?
I grew up in Durham, N.C., and am a Tar Heel fan
“Live each day to the fullest. You never know what
but moved to North Myrtle Beach, S.C., when I was
the Lord has in store for you!”
16 years old.
What do you consider to be the best part of your job?
What is your favorite thing about living in the
Getting to meet new and interesting people each day
Myrtle Beach area?
is the best part of my job.
Going to the beach whenever I like!
What motivates you to do your best?
Describe your perfect weekend.
The accomplishment of the final result motivates me
My perfect weekend involves relaxing on the beach with
to do my best.
Barrett while enjoying some cocktails, then grilling out at
Where is your favorite place to vacation and why?
the house with friends and family over, and finally taking
My favorite place to vacation is Disney World,
our dog Maxx out walking on the beach.
because I can be a kid again.
Who is your role model and why?
What is something that few people know about you?
My role model is my mom. She is a very strong,
I am terrified of sharks. I freak out even just seeing a
independent woman with positive morals and
picture of them.
respects others.
Are you a dog or a cat person?
If you were stranded on a desert island and could only
I am a dog person. I have a Yorkie named Maxx.
have three things with you, what would they be?
If you were ice cream, what flavor would you be?
If I were stranded on a desert island and could only have
If I were ice cream, I would be chocolate chip cookie dough.
three things with me I would have my husband, Mountain
What is your all-time favorite movie?
Dew and my cell phone with Internet. I would post “help!” My favorite movie is “Dirty Dancing.“ I still try to jump off
on Facebook.
the coffee table and think someone is going to catch me.
What do you consider your greatest personal
If a movie were made about your life, who would you
accomplishment?
cast to play yourself?
Marrying the man of my dreams and starting a
I would cast Cameron Diaz, because she is full of life.
family of our own.
What qualities do you value most in others?
If you won the lottery today, what would be your
I value honesty, respect and loyalty most in others.
first purchase?
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
My first purchase would be my dream home with a huge
I am a morning person aer I get my shower, since
kitchen and a closet that could fit all of my clothes and
I usually fall asleep on the couch around 8:30 each night.
shoes in it, and I would buy my mom a condo on the
What cartoon character best describes you? Why?
waterway.
Scooby-Doo best describes me because he is adventurous.
What is one of your greatest strengths?
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
According to Leadership Grand Strand Class 31,
I see myself happy with a healthy and loving family.
being the life of the party.
What is one of your greatest weaknesses?
My lack of patience. I get it from my dad.
More Up Close & Personal With Shannon Furtick, See Page 21
16
Economic Indicators
R E S I D E N T I A L CO N S T RU C T I O N PE R M I T S J A N UA RY 2012
LOCATION
Single Family Units
Single Family Units Cost
Multi-Family Bldgs.
Multi-Family Units
Multi-Family Bldgs. Cost
Myrtle Beach
Unincorporated
11
$4,184,472
0
0
$0
83
$13,137,662
2
40
$1,400,000
North
Myrtle Beach
6
$1,615,290
1
2
$180,267
Surfside
Beach
5
$1,007,760
0
0
$0
Georgetown
County
9
$1,909,016
0
0
$0
R E S I D E N T I A L C O N S T R U C T I O N P E R M I T S J A N U A R Y 2 0 11
LOCATION
Myrtle Beach
Unincorporated
North
Myrtle Beach
Surfside
Beach
Georgetown
County
Single Family Units
Single Family Units Cost
Multi-Family Bldgs.
Multi-Family Units
Multi-Family Bldgs. Cost
10
$3,468,452
0
0
$0
56
$8,997,140
0
0
$0
12
$2,397,410
0
0
$0
1
$178,400
0
0
$0
9
$2,182,446
0
0
$0
ADDITIONAL ECONOMIC INDIC ATOR S
Monthly statistics for the following economic indicators can be found in the CVB Insider special section of the Grand Strander:
Accommodations Tax Collections • Admissions Tax • Airport Activity • Gross Retail Sales
Sources: Bureau of the Census, S.C. Employment Commission
Grand Strander
17
New members
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce encourages members to do business with other chamber members.
Please consider these new members the next time you have a need for products/services. New Member Referral?
Contact Pam Wright, South Strand sales manager, (843) 916-7220, [email protected].
2 Clean Cut Guys, LLC
Moving-Storage/Services
Chad Smith
3871 Myrtle Pointe Dr.
(843) 251-1870
2cleancutguys.com
Capriz Italian Feast
Restaurant-Italian
Larry Bond
1311 Celebrity Cir.
(843) 712-1707
caprizitalianfeast.com
Anchor Healthcare
Consulting
Consultants
Laura Griffith
PO Box 50444
(843) 742-1717
anchorhc.com
Captain Raymond’s
Fishing & Cruises
Fishing Boats-Charter/Headboats
Leeann Coleman
9931 Nance St.
Calabash, NC 28467
(910) 479-3474
captainraymonds.com
Barking Fish Yogurt, LLC
Ice Cream-Frozen Desserts
Becky Ruland
2876-D Howard Ave..
(843) 839-1665
Charleston Festival
Foods, Inc.
Concessions
Ryan Harbit
1152 Clover Place
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466
(843) 991-0705
Beach Boys Party Bus
Limousine-Services
Brady Neff
563 Hathorn Dr.
Pawleys Island, SC 29585
(843) 902-7433
Beach House Furniture
& Interiors
Furniture-Dealers
Tawnya Shreve
1115 N. Kings Hwy.
(843) 448-4904
beachhouseinteriors.net
Black Dog Running
Company, LLC
Sporting Goods
Daniel Brass
515 Hwy. 501, Unit C
(843) 685-5637
blackdogrunning.com
Budget Bedding
Bedding
Kevin Tetrault
811 8th Ave. S.
Surfside Beach, SC 29575
(843) 333-3336
18
Coccadotts Cake Shop
Restaurant-Bakery
Michelle Cocca
106 Sayebrook Pkwy., Unit #2
(843) 294-2253
coccadotts.com
Consigning Women
on Broadway
Clothing-Women
Sara Owid
407 Broadway St.
(843) 839-3960
Custom Shirt Zone
Embroidery
Jackie Miles
6300 Dawn Court
(843) 457-5998
customshirtzone.com
DKNY
Clothing-Men/Women
Ryan Magnum
10835 Kings Rd., Ste. 825
(843) 449-4200
dkny.com
MyrtleBeachA
The Dugout Baseball
and Soball Center
Indoor Sports Facility
Edward Bodge
1121 3rd Ave. S.
(843) 712-2735
thedugoutmb.com
E Noodles & Co.
Restaurant-Asian
Denise Parker
400 20th Ave. S.
(843) 916-8808
Go Fast Motorsports
Motorcycles/ScootersSales&Rentals
David Stone
609 S. Kings Hwy.
y
(843) 712-2225
Gold Key Jazz Society
Nonprofit
Elsie Graves
PO Box 50633
(843) 742-5064
goldkeyjazzsociety.org
H&R Block
Tax Preparation
Erma York
1724 Hwy. 501
(843) 448-6231
hrblock.com
H&R Block
Tax Preparation
Darryl Vick
Sears in Coastal Grand Mall
(843) 238-5284
hrblock.com
H&R Block
Tax Preparation
Anne Roney
410-C Hwy. 17 Business N.
(843) 238-2921
hrblock.com
H&R Block
Tax Preparation
Michael Weaver
4973 Socastee Blvd.
(843) 293-7222
hrblock.com
Harrison Realty Co., Inc. dba
Re/Max Coastal Living
Vacation Rentals & Beach Homes
Janice Harrison
17-B Hwy. 17 S.
(843) 238-5464
(800) 388-3492
harrisonrealtyco.com
m
Jerry Livingston, LLC
Health-Wellness
Jerry Livingston
PO Box 2416
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
(843) 651-4811
Jet Ski Express
Jet Skis
Jennifer Poore
4042 Hwy. 17 Business
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
(843) 357-7777
(866) 566-9338
expresswatersports.com
Karma Tattoos
Piercing & Tattoos
Chris Abraham
700-H Seaboard St.
(843) 839-2117
tattoomyrtlebeach.com
Kinetico Water Systems
Home Services
Peter Palazzo
PO Box 638
Hampsted, NC 28443
(252) 269-0438
(800) 865-1208
kinetico.com
The Kitchen
Restaurant-Caterers
Dale Todd
4301 Little River Rd., #62-A
(843) 457-5100
Liberty Steakhouse
& Brewery
Restaurant-Steakhouse
Erin Parker
1321 Celebrity Cir.
9577
(843) 626-4677
libertysteakhouseandbrewery.com
Myrtle Beach Speedway
Entertainment
Patrick Wood
415 Hospitality Ln.
n.
(704) 886-2400
myrtlebeachspeedway.com
Business Bulletin
Liberty Tap Room & Grill
Restaurant-Steakhouse
Michael Abel
7651 N. Kings Hwy.
(843) 839-4677
libertytaproom.com
LM&M Stiletto Couture
Shoes & Boutique
Shoes
Lucinda Moore
2000 Coastal Grand
(843) 283-8468
Loretta Thompson
Photography
Photography
Loretta Thompson
265 Venice Way, Unit 1103
(843) 360-0574
lorettathompsonphotography.
com
Lulu’s Cafe
Restaurant-Cafe
Misty Coan
1903 N. Ocean Blvd.
(843) 712-1890
Mechanical Systems
Technology, Inc.
Air Conditioning & Heating
Doug Pacheco
323 Bush Dr.
(843) 399-8296
MST-HVAC.com
Mercom Corporation
Computer-Network Consulting/
Service
Peter Tegowski
235 Commerce Dr., Ste. 303
Pawleys Island, SC 29585
(843) 979-9957
mercomcorp.com
Mroz Marketing
Printers
Bryan Mroz
1805 Oak St.
(843) 448-6764
mrozmarketing.com
Myrtle Beach Tour & Travel
Tours-Operators & Promoters
E. Shannon Kirk
513 N. Myrtle Dr.
(843) 650-7477
NASCAR Racing Experience
Entertainment
Patrick Wood
6025 Victory Ln.
Concord, NC 28027
(704) 886-2400
Oceanfront Vacation
Rentals, Inc.
Vacation Rentals &
Beach Homes
Jennifer Jordan
1551 21st Ave. N., Ste. 12
(843) 448-1700
(800) 247-5459
oceanfrontvac.com
m
Outside the Box
Fundraising
Courtney Wade
9287 Pee Dee Hwy.
Conway, SC 29527
(843) 504-4737
otbdesigns.com
Proforma Graphic Concepts
Advertising-Specialties
Daniel Badolato
1229 38th Ave. N., #350
(410) 979-4972
proforma.com/graphicconcepts
RE/MAX Southern Shores
Holly Markt, Realtor
Real Estate-Sales
Holly Markt
2339 Hwy. 17 S.
Garden City, SC 29576
(843) 357-0220
hollymarkt.com
Rioz Brazilian Steakhouse
Restaurant-Brazilian
Charlotte Bruton
2920 Hollywood Dr.
(843) 839-0777
rioz.com
Ron Jon’s Restaurant
Restaurant-Bar/Pub
Nicole Couilliard
3218 Waccamaw Blvd.
(843) 236-8001
Rover Tours
Cruises-Boat Excursions/
Sightseeing
Tamela Walter
715 Front St.
Georgetown, SC
C 29440
(843) 546-8822
(800) 705-9063
roverboattours.com
South Carolina
Sheriffs’ Association
Organizations/Clubs
Cherie Avery
112 Westpark Blvd.
Columbia, SC 29210
(803) 772-1101
(866) 772-1011
sheriffsc.com
Sign-A-Rama
Signs
Donald Bangs
2507 Forestbrook Rd.
(843) 444-5544
signarama-myrtlebeach.com
The Wellness Council
for South Carolina.
Organizations/Clubs
Kristi Jacques Falk
514 Alder St., Ste. 1
(843) 995-3199
wellnesscouncilcsc.org
Weltner’s Collision
Auto-Body Repair
Eric Weltner
447 Stanley Dr., #8
Garden City, SC 29576
(843) 947-0377
weltnerscollision.com
The X Sports
Health-Clubs
Robby Love
568 George Bisphop Pkwy.
(843) 236-0009
Zeus Media Network, LLC
Marketing-Communications
Carol McGrow
1297 Professional Dr., Ste. 20
(843) 997-6645
zeusmedianetwork.com
Swi Services Heating
and Cooling
Air Conditioning & Heating
Robby Haller
4011-C Belle Terre Blvd.
(843) 236-9060
followthesnowman.com
TBonz Gill & Grill
Restaurant-American
David Thurber
1169 Seaboard St.
(843) 946-7111
tbonz.com
Telford Cleaning
Services Corp.
Cleaning
Gregory Telford
716 15th Ave.
Conway, SC 29526
(843) 248-3516
U.S. Tours
Tours-Operators & Promoters
Robert Cline
2819 Murdoch Ave.
Parkersburg, WV 26101
(304) 485-8687
ustours.biz
Grand Strander
19
gsSCENE
www.gsSCENE.com
gsLEAD for Emerging Leaders
Class II graduates
by Blakely Jenkins, IOM, MBACC membership & community programs manager and gsSCENE liaison
In September 2012, gsLEAD for Emerging
Leaders welcomed Class II. gsLEAD for
Emerging Leaders is a nine-month,
35-hour development program consisting
of 27 hours of classroom training and
eight hours of board observance/
mentorship.
Aer completing the gsLEAD program,
graduates will have the knowledge
and skills to serve on various nonprofit
boards, committees and councils along
the Grand Strand. Throughout the nine
month program, participants were taught
by Cookie Sprouse with The Chapin
Foundation, Jonathan Kresken with
Waccamaw Community Foundation and
Benjamin Baroody from Bellamy Law
Firm. Some of the featured speakers
throughout the program were: Julie
Kopnicky, United Way of Horry County;
Dennis Wade, The Jackson Companies;
Woody Ford, BlueCross BlueShield; Tim
Grow and Denise Hill, Elliott Davis LLC;
Tabby Shelton, Fostering Hope; Amy
Brennen, The Citadel Foundation; Vern
Hearl, LHWH; Mark Burlinson, A Father’s
Place; and many others.
Participants also took part in mock board
meetings throughout the year to better
familiarize themselves with all aspects of
nonprofit board participation.
The following topics were covered
throughout the program:
• Board Governance
• Financial Management
• Communication Within a Board
20
• Marketing and Public Relations
of a Board Member
• Leadership
• Selecting Your Board
Participants also had to participate in
observance of area nonprofit boards. The
following boards allowed participation
from the gsLEAD class: A Father’s Place,
Children’s Museum of South Carolina,
Chapin Foundation, Boys & Girls Club of
Grand Strand, Horry County Council of
Aging, Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach,
Fostering Hope, Horry County Disabilities
and Special Needs, Horry County Literacy
Council, Family Self-Sufficiency Family
Outreach, YMCA Coastal Carolina, North
Strand Helping Hand, North Myrtle Beach
Humane Society, Franklin G. BurroughsSimon B. Chapin Art Museum, Freedom
Readers Inc., GRACE Ministries, Habitat
for Humanity, The Long Bay Symphony,
Street Reach Ministries and American
Red Cross.
Class II Graduates
• Rachel Beckerman – Ocean Lakes
Family Campground
• David Egan – Hub International
Southeast
• Andrea Brie Jackson – WBTW News 13
• Erin M. Kelley – Elliott Davis, LLC
• Dawn Kinard – Coastal Carolina
National Bank
• Ashley P. Smith – Gilmore
Entertainment/The Carolina Opry
• Barry Roof – People’s Underwriters, Inc.
• Jory L. Taylor – Edward Jones
gsSCENE Events
Register at www.gsSCENE.com
May 5 • 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
gsSCENE Volunteering at
Grand Strand Miracle League
Location: James C. Benton
Miracle League Field in the
Pepper Geddings Recreational
Complex at Oak Street and
33rd Avenue North in Myrtle
Beach
Come out and support the
Grand Strand Miracle League.
Play ball, serve lunch, sell
T-shirts and more.
May 10 • 5-8 p.m.
gsSCENE Anniversary Party
at the Pier
Location: Springmaid Pier
& BARnacles Bar & Grille
3200 S. Ocean Blvd.
Myrtle Beach
Celebrate the fourth anniversary
of gsSCENE with an evening
full of great food, drinks, live
entertainment by Sea Breeze
and networking ... all with a
view money cannot buy at the
Springmaid Pier! Springmaid
Pier boasts the longest pier over
the Atlantic along the Grand
Strand.
Business Bulletin
Applause, Applause
Century 21 Boling award winners for
Top Production for 2011 are: Traci Miles,
Sara Boling Gore, Debbie Davis, Tom
Richards, Gene Heidt, Marty Corley and
Robert Kingsley. Quality Service Award
winners are: Glenn Hellofs, Traci Miles,
Sara Boling Gore, Debbie Davis, Gene
Heidt, Robert Kingsley, Gonca Ender,
Trish Taylor, Dean Houstman, Eddie
Marshall, Jamye Crossingham, Martha
Thill and Jane Bohannon.
John Draughn of Coldwell Banker
Commercial Chicora Real Estate LLC
has been recognized as one of Coldwell
Banker Commercial’s 2011 “Top Two,”
a designation that is reserved for the
elite top 2 percent of producers from
among the almost 2,100 CBC sales
professionals organizationwide. Draughn
also was named the No. 1 Coldwell Banker
Commercial sales professional in South
Carolina.
Closing the Deal
Mercom Corp. was awarded a
$500 million Intelligence, Surveillance, and
Reconnaissance, Information Operations,
and Information Assurance (ISR/IO/IA)
and a $500 Network and Communications
Equipment (COMMS) Mac contracts
from Space and Naval Warfare Systems
Center Atlantic. This is Mercom’s fih and
sixth (respectively) consecutive contract
MAC awards from SPAWAR Atlantic
and demonstrates the great relationship
that Mercom has with the U.S. Navy,
specifically SPAWAR Charleston.
Merger
The Lachicotte Co. and Vintage Estates
Realty have merged and will operate
under The Lachicotte Co. name as the
exclusive affiliate of Christie’s International
Real Estate for Horry and Georgetown
counties.
Member-to-Member Support
McNair Law Firm, P.A. announced that
Henrietta Golding has been selected by
her peers for inclusion in South Carolina
Super Lawyers 2012. Only 5 percent of the
lawyers in the state are named by Super
Lawyers.
Ocean Park Resort, recently ranked the
No. 3 Pet Friendliest Hotel in the United
States by TripAdvisor reviewers, has joined
with k9Cabana Dog Resort & Spa to offer
on-site grooming for pet guests.
RE/MAX Ocean Forest announced that
Paige Bird has reached the RE/MAX
International 100 Percent Club level for
2012.
More Up Close
& Personal With
Shannon Furtick
Inside Tracks
Coastal Carolina National Bank (CCNB)
has selected Laurence Bolchoz, Jr. to be
its new president and chief executive
officer. Bolchoz has also been named
president and chief executive officer of
Coastal Carolina Bancshares Inc., the
parent company of CCNB.
South Atlantic Bank has announced the
appointment of Peg Shaffer as assistant
vice president and assistant manager of
loan servicing at the bank’s main office
at 630 29th Ave. North in Myrtle Beach.
Heather Ellis has joined Tradd
Commercial as a property manager and
will oversee a portfolio of properties.
Continued From Page 16
What were your favorite subjects
in school?
My favorite subject in school was
physical education. I got to play
sports and show the boys up!
What was the last book that you
read?
I am not much of a book reader,
but I love the Hollywood gossip
magazines.
If you weren’t in your current
job/career, what do you imagine
yourself doing?
I am not sure. I love doing events,
so maybe I’d be an event planner.
Members in the News
To find out more about the
highlighted businesses, click
on the Business Search link at
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
Share Your News
Business Bulletin recognizes new
employees, staff promotions,
relocations and expansions, awards,
class and convention attendance,
new websites, and year-end
accomplishments for top real
estate producers/sales. Send
updates (under 75 words) by
the 5th of each month to
[email protected]
fax – (843) 626-0009.
Congressman
Scott addresses
chamber members
The North Strand Council held a
luncheon with South Carolina 1st
District U.S. Congressman Tim Scott on
March 23 at the Prince Resort in North
Myrtle Beach. Following a lunch buffet,
Scott addressed the council on topics
such as the Highway Reauthorization
Bill, infrastructure projects, job creation,
and tax reform. He also expressed his
concern for hotels having to meet the
new Americans with Disabilities Act to
put pool lis in all public pools.
Scott stated he agrees with the ADA
regulation but that hotels need more
lenient ways to meet the requirements.
With the creation of the new South
Carolina 7th Congressional District,
Scott stated he will continue to look
out for the needs of the Grand Strand.
Grand Strander
21
Hospitality Partnership
MBHospitality.org
HospitalityPartnership.com
Support needed for law enforcement
during Memorial Day Weekend
by Stephen Greene, MBAHA president
We need your help again this year to provide these much
needed meals. Please contact Hailey Baker, manager of
membership services, at (843) 916-7297 or
[email protected] if you are able to donate.
ONE
For the past 16 years, the Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality
Association has coordinated meal donations for visiting law
enforcement officers working along Ocean Boulevard during
the Memorial Day weekend events. Your donations ensure
these officers are able to enjoy a meal during their long
shis as most would not be able to eat during that time if
not for your generosity. When the meals are delivered by
staff and the Myrtle Beach Police Department, the officers
always express so much appreciation for your efforts.
Also, if you will be offering free or discounted meals to the
law enforcement officers at your restaurant during this time,
please let us know so that we can communicate to them.
Thank you so much!
In-Market Visitor Profile Survey
The Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association, through the
Hospitality Partnership with the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber
of Commerce, needs your help with an In-Market Visitor
Profile Study. The goal is to establish a baseline of visitor
demographics by surveying visitors throughout the entire
year. The year has been broken into five seasons: winter
(January-February), spring (March-May), summer
(June-August), fall (September-October), holiday
(November-December).
We need properties to participate by giving the survey
to your guests. At the end of each season, participants
will receive a copy of the overall visitor information, and a
profile of your properties visitors, which will be provided
to you only. All information received will be kept strictly
confidential.
It will not cost you anything. We will provide you with the
survey cards for each of your properties for each season. We
simply ask that your frontline employees hand the cards
out when guests check out. It would be up to your frontline
staff to briefly explain that by completing the online survey,
the guests will have the opportunity to win a free $100
American Express gi card and be entered into a drawing
at the end of the year for a three day/two night vacation.
If an employee has put their ID on the card, and that
card is drawn as a winner, then the employee also wins
a $100 American Express gi card. All participants’
information collected will be used to award prizes only
and will not be distributed for mailing lists.
For more details on the program or to sign up, contact
Wendy Bernstein, MBACC research manager, at
(843) 916-7217 or [email protected].
Hospitality Ambassador Program
Hospitality ambassadors are a group of dedicated volunteers
from various businesses throughout the Grand Strand’s
hospitality and tourism industry. Their mission is to welcome
and nurture current hospitality members and recruit new
MBAHA members. Hospitality ambassadors serve as
goodwill representatives at various association functions
and aid in the support of members.
Mark your calendar
22
Hospitality ambassadors earn points by calling and visiting
other MBAHA members, attending monthly meetings,
encouraging member participation in events, recruiting
other ambassadors, having a suggested business become a
MBAHA member, and participating in association projects.
At the end of the year, these points are tallied and an
Ambassador of the Year is named at the MBAHA annual
meeting in November.
Ambassador Program, See Page 23
Hospitality All Access at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
June 5, 2012 - 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Calendar
Apr-Oct...........................................
Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo
May 1 ..............................................
Meet the Candidates Breakfast
8:30-10 a.m.
May 3 ..............................................
Pirate Adventures of
Myrtle Beach 5:30-7:30 p.m.
May 5 ..............................................
gsSCENE Community Service
Grand Strand Miracle League
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. • gsSCENE.com
May 8 ..............................................
Myrtle Beach Ambassadors • 8 a.m.
Behind the Scenes
Froyoz Frozen Yogurt
4:30-6 p.m.
May 9 ..............................................
South Strand Ambassadors • 8 a.m.
Membership Committee • 9 a.m.
Ribbon-Cutting
Hospice Care of South Carolina
4 p.m.
May 10 ............................................
gsSCENE Anniversary Party
at the Pier
5-8 p.m. • gsSCENE.com
May 15 ............................................
Ribbon-Cutting
LM&M Stiletto Couture Shoes &
Boutique • 10 a.m.
Finance Review Committee • 2 p.m.
Board of Directors • 3:30 p.m.
May 16 ............................................
B-to-B Connects • 8-9:30 a.m.
May 17 ............................................
WonderWorks • 4:30-7 p.m.
May & June
May 29 ............................................
Chamber Access • 9 a.m.
ChamberAcademy.com
Jun 5 ................................................
CVB-Group Sales Committee
2:30 p.m.
Hospitality All Access
Medieval Times Dinner &
Tournament • 5:30-8:30 p.m.
MBHospitality.org
Jun 7 ................................................
Small Business Council • 9 a.m.
Golf Academy of America Carolinas • 4:30-7 p.m.
Jun 12 ..............................................
Myrtle Beach Ambassadors • 8 a.m.
Jun 13 ..............................................
South Strand Ambassadors • 8 a.m.
Jun 14 ..............................................
Behind the Scenes
Karma Tattoos • 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Jun 19 ..............................................
Board of Directors Luncheon
12 p.m.
Finance Review Committee • 2 p.m.
Jun 26 ..............................................
Chamber Access • 3 p.m.
ChamberAcademy.com
Jun 28 ..............................................
Planet Fitness • 5-8 p.m.
Ambassador
Program
Continued From Page 22
2012 Hospitality Ambassadors
Stephanie Bohardt – Sonic Drive-In,
John Trudeau – Heartland Payment
Systems, Chris Corcionne – Labor
Ready, Ellen Calhoun – A&I Fire and
Water Restoration, Barbara West
– A Services Group LLC, Robert
Hiers – John T. Cook & Associates, and
Stephen Sekura – Canteen.
Why Become a MBAHA
Hospitality Ambassador?
Hospitality ambassadors gain business
exposure by being the first to meet
MBAHA members and put their
company’s name in the forefront.
By volunteering at association events
and attending hospitality ambassador
meetings, your business is always
involved and kept current on what
is going on within MBAHA and the
hospitality industry.
To learn more about becoming a
hospitality ambassador, contact
Hailey Baker, manager of membership
services, at (843) 916-7297 or
[email protected].
For the most current meeting/event dates and times, go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and check out Events & Registration on the home page.
Follow MBACC on
Grand Strander
23
Member Anniversaries
Congratulations to the following Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce members celebrating membership
anniversaries in May.
32 Years
Litchfield Country Club
19 Years
Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf
30 Years
Cane Patch Par 3 & Driving Range
18 Years
Commercial Landtec Corporation
The Hoffman Group
Peachtree Electrical Services
29 Years
Greenwall Construction Service, Inc.
25 Years
Surfside Beach Resort
24 Years
Stages Video Productions, Inc.
23 Years
Avista Resort
Nibils
22 Years
Holbert & Holbert, PA
Studio K, Inc.
21 Years
Beach Vacations, LLC
C.A. Timbes Vending
and Food Services
Damon’s Oceanfront
Eagles Beachwear #14
Eagles Beachwear #2
Eagles Beachwear #3
Eagles Beachwear #5
Kirk’s 1890 Ice Cream Parlor
Second Avenue Pier
20 Years
The Pier At Garden City
Lesnik Himmelsbach Wilson Hearl
Advertising, Inc.
24
17 Years
Broadway at the Beach
Habitat for Humanity of
Horry County, Inc.
Hawaiian Rumble Miniature Golf
Myrtle Beach Golf Desk
Red Lobster - 10000 Hwy. 17 N.
16 Years
Strand Import & Distributors, Inc.
14 Years
Animal Emergency Hospital
13 Years
MyrtleBeachHotels.com
Staybridge Suites
12 Years
Anchor Taxi
Ocean Watersports
11 Years
Strand Storage Center - Myrtle Beach
Watkins Services, Inc.
Wild Wing Plantation
10 Years
Better Homes and Gardens Real
Estate Elliott Coastal Living
Rape Crisis Center
The Salvation Army - Horry County
9 Years
Benji’s Bed & Breakfast
Farmstead Golf Links
Meadowlands Golf Club
8 Years
Avista Resort
Hibbits Insurance, Inc.
Lakeside Crossing
7 Years
Atlantic Foodservice Repairs
MyrtleBeachGolf.com
Prince Resort at
The Cherry Grove Pier
6 Years
The Brandon Agency
Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant
Hart Realty & Property Management
Horry Georgetown Technical College
- Grand Strand Campus
HTC Yellow Pages
Resorts Transportation
SendOutCards
Unity Christ Church
Waccamaw Publishers, Inc.
5 Years
ARCpoint
Elvis Service Co., Inc.
Goodwill Industries of
Lower South Carolina
The Law Office of
Dennis J. DiSabato Jr., LLC
Office Depot Store #2149
T.I.G.E.R.S. Preservation Preserve
Wild Encounter Tour
4 Years
Advanced Protection Services
The Arc of Coastal Carolina
Bovine’s Wood Fired Specialties
Bubba’s Fish Shack
Coastal Distribution
Dick’s Pools, LLC
Divine Fish House / Wahoo’s Bar
Hilton Garden Inn Myrtle Beach at
Coastal Grand Mall
Planet Hollywood Myrtle Beach
River City Cafe - 21st Ave.
River City Cafe - 73rd Ave.
River City Cafe - Barefoot Landing
River City Cafe - Murrells Inlet
River City Cafe - Myrtle Beach
River City Cafe - Socastee
River City Cafe - Surfside Beach
Ultimate California Pizza - 74th Ave.
Ultimate California Pizza - Barefoot Landing
Ultimate California Pizza - Garden City
Ultimate California Pizza - Market Common
Ultimate California Pizza - Myrtle Beach
Ultimate California Pizza - Surfside Beach
3 Years
3 Palms Ocean Front Myrtle Beach
7 Twelve Boutique, Inc.
Atlantic Stage
Banana Boat Express
Barnaby & Sons, LLC
Blue Wave Adventures Dolphin Watch Tour
Brown Printing Company
Capt. Ricky Long’s Charters
Grand Strand Vacations
Kayak Express, LLC
Mad Myrtles Ice Creamery
Meals On Wheels of Horry County, Inc.
Meridian Plaza Hotel
Oceanfront Merchants Association
Parasail Express
Peaches Corner
Peppertree Ocean Club
Pipeline Surf Shop
Shallow Minded Inshore Charters
Soho Cafe & Bar
Sugami-Japanese Restaurant
VacationMyrtleBeach.com
Wild West Old Time Photos
1 Year
Carlos’ n Charlie’s
Carolina Currents - The Boating and Waterfront Magazine
Cellular Sales
Coastal Pure
CSA Travel Protection
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Fresenius Medical Care (FMC)
Mead & Hunt, Inc.
Myrtle Beach Junior Golf Foundation
Myrtle Beach Manor
Open Range Communications
The Pet Doctor
Soccer Locker, LLC
TheDigitel Myrtle Beach
T-Mobile operated by A-1 Wireless - Murrells Inlet
Vintage Estates Realty
2 Years
Allegiant Travel Company
Big M Casino
The Brittain Law Firm, PA
Carolina Creations Landscapes, Inc.
Hurl Rock Motel
Miller-Motte Technical College
Myrtle Beach Herald Visitors’ Edition
(Subsidiary of Waccamaw Publishers, Inc.)
Palmetto Shores
Re-Builders, Inc.
Southeastern Alliance Underwriters, LLC,
dba SAU Insurance Agency
Sun Hospitality Resort Services
Ultimate Gullah
Grand Strander
25
Meet your ambassadors
Jay Mulligan
Ambassadors welcome current members and recruit new chamber members. Ambassadors serve as goodwill
representatives at various chamber functions and aid in the support of members. This month, the Grand Strander
took a moment to check in with Jay Mulligan an ambassador with the chamber for five months, to find out why he
enjoys being an ambassador.
Q. What prompted you to volunteer as a chamber ambassador?
I wanted to become more involved in the community, and help get others more
involved. The more businesses that participate and network together the stronger
the local business community gets. We help each other succeed.
Q. What do you like most about being a chamber ambassador?
I love the social aspect of it, getting to meet all of the different businesses and
personalities in the market. It’s fun.
Q. How has the investment of time as a chamber ambassador advanced
your career or business? It’s priceless, it has allowed other people and
businesses to get to know me and my business on a personal level. People like to do
business with people they know, trust and can rely on.
Q. What is your best advice for making the most of chamber
membership? Get involved, take advantage of the Business Aer Hours and other
events. Network, Network, Network.
Q. Give us your 30 second elevator speech about your business.
Jordan & Sons Plumbing services all of Horry and Georgetown counties. We will
handle all of your residential, commercial and industrial Plumbing and Electrical
needs. Jordan & Sons Plumbing is “A Plumber Like No Other.” You will always know
the price up front, so there are no surprises.
Jay Mulligan
Jordan & Sons Plumbing
COO
How long have you been an
ambassador? Five Months
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremonies
Your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce conducts ribbon-cutting ceremonies as a value added benefit
included in your membership investment. We bring the camera, oversized scissors and, of course, the ribbon. A grand
opening, an expansion, an anniversary or a move to a new facility is made more special with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Plus, it’s a great way to introduce your business to the community and fellow chamber members. If you’re a home-based
business, give us a call and we’ll hold a special ceremony here at the chamber just for you.
Kickoff a grand opening of your business by contacting Pat Creed, membership services manager, at (843) 916-7225 or by
email at [email protected].
The Dugout Baseball
and Soball Center
1121 3rd Ave. S.
(843) 712-2735
thedugoutmb.com
26
Custom Shirt Zone
6300 Dawn Court
(843) 457-5998
customshirtzone.com
Pizza Romana
701 S. Kings Hwy.
(843) 448-5271
pizzaromanamyrtlebeach.com
Telford Cleaning Services Corp.
PO Box 502
Conway, SC 29528
(843) 248-3516
Ribbon-Cuttings, See Page 28
Grand Strander
27
Ribbon-Cuttings Continued From Page 27
Evergreen Landscaping
741-A Commerce Place
(843) 444-0023
evergreenlandscaping.com
Seaside Furniture Gallery
527 Hwy. 17 N.
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
(843) 280-7632
seasidefurnitureonline.com
Ragin Insurance Group
629 Robert Grissom Pkwy.
(843) 445-7888
fitsservices.com
28
BI-LO, LLC # 116
1241 38th Ave. N.
(843) 626-7400
Bi-Lo.com
Coccadotts Cake Shop
106 Sayebrook Pkwy., Unit #2
(843) 294-2253
coccadotts.com
Grand Strander
29
PERIODICALS
U.S. Postage
PAID
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to
Membership Division
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce,
P.O. Box 2115, Myrtle Beach, SC 29578-2115
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of
Commerce has a strong member core
of some of the most dynamic, involved
nonprofit organizations in the Grand
Strand. Check out the website at
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click
on the Nonprofit Resource Center on
the right side, and discover the many
ways you and your business can support
our local nonprofits. The chamber also
encourages business members to send in
brief write-ups on what their businesses
are doing to support nonprofits:
blood donations, fundraising
events, mentoring programs, etc.
If you’re a nonprofit member, visit
and send in the online Nonprofit
Information form. If your business
is reaching out to nonprofits, visit
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and
send in the online Giving Back form.
USPS 124-490
Remember to pass along the Grand Strander
to your colleagues and friends!
Grand Strander Credits
Kori Hippe
Member Communications Manager
[email protected]
Diana Greene, IOM
Executive Vice President
Membership Programs & Services
Grand Strander Issue 707 May 2012 (ISSN 124-490) is published
12 times a year by Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, 1200 N. Oak St.,
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577. Periodical postage paid at Myrtle Beach, SC 29577.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Membership Division, Myrtle Beach
Area Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 2115, Myrtle Beach, SC 29578-2115
Business Bulletin
Send updates by the 5th of each month for Business Bulletin to
[email protected], fax – (843) 626-0009.
Check us out on the Web
For more information about member benefits, upcoming events and
business updates, visit us at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
Advertising Inquiries
Reach more than 2,000 business leaders
by advertising in the Grand Strander.
Scott Head, advertising sales manager
(843) 916-7277 or [email protected]
Member Services
Area Code: (843)
General Information: 626-7444
Membership Sales: 916-7220 or 7234
Advertising Sales: 916-7277
Public Relations: 916-7218
Marketing: 916-7262
Research: 916-7217
Festivals & Events: 916-7276
Executive: 916-7296
CVB-Group Sales: 916-7260
gsSCENE: 916-7232
Leadership Grand Strand: 916-7222
Hospitality Partnership: 626-9668
Grand Strander is printed by Inlet Printing Co.

STRANDER STRANDER - Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce

Transcription

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