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 705
The
n
e
e
gr
March 2012
What’s Inside?
life
Perhaps more than ever before, there
is a true national awareness of the
importance of sustainable practices
for business owners. While there are
costs associated with this new level of
awareness, there are also tremendous
opportunities and profits, including the
following:
1. Energy savings drive operating
expenses down and raise
profitability.
2. Providing a healthy environment
for your employees can lead to
increased productivity.
3. Your environmentally friendly
efforts can earn you goodwill from
employees, customers and vendors.
4. Effectively publicizing your efforts
can lead to positive media attention.
5. Making a difference in the lives
of your workers, the community
and the world will result in
empowerment for your business.
Going green is a series of steps that
ultimately lead to a better world for
everyone.
Recycling soap, reducing waste
and saving lives
Marriott’s OceanWatch Villas at
Grande Dunes and Wyndham Vacation
Resorts are two businesses committed
to saving lives and protecting our
planet by collecting and recycling hotel
The green life, See Page 9
Sample
delicious cuisine
from more than
30 local
restaurants
Make dinner plans for Thursday,
April 5, at the Myrtle Beach
Convention Center for the second
annual f.l.a.v.o.r. culinary event.
From 5-8:30 p.m., f.l.a.v.o.r., which
stands for Fresh, Local, Appetizing,
Valuable, Original, Restaurants, will
feature more than 30 restaurants that
will have their most appetizing cuisines
f.l.a.v.o.r., See Page 8
Beach Blast! • 8
Great artists line up for 2012
Christian Music Festival.
CVB Insider
CVB-Group Sales
heating up in 2012.
Up Close • 15-16
Discover which staff member has
lived in all 50 states and which board
member wants to be Wonder Woman.
Refer a Member
Help strengthen your chamber
and grow your business.
See Back Cover
Visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com
• Make a difference. Check out the
Nonprofit Resource Center.
Visit GrandStandEvents.com
• Post your spring and summer events
and start planning your weekends!
Follow MBACC on
What’s Online?
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com
4 1/2 Questions
k9Cabana Dog Resort & Spa,
located at 3949 Dick Pond Road
in Myrtle Beach (k9cabana.com.),
celebrates MBACC membership
with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
This dog paradise provides dog
daycare, boarding, grooming,
training, birthday “pawties” and
lots of other services to keep your
dog’s tail wagging!
“Why become an ambassador?”
This month we checked in with
Jenafor Braley, distributor for
SendOutCards. An ambassador for
eight years, Braley says that being
a chamber ambassador has allowed
her to make friends and promote
her business. Check out the March
Grand Strander Online for her
story.
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 March, 93 members will
be celebrating their chamber
anniversaries. Read the March Grand
Strander Online and discover which
human resources company has been
a chamber member for 32 years.
Member of the Month
Tee Off Fore a Cause
P.O. Box 3661, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
(843) 333-7974
teeoffforeacause.org
30-Second Commercial
Tee Off Fore a Cause is a 501C3 charity formed to raise money and awareness for the
Wounded Warrior Project. Tee Off Fore a Cause holds golf tournaments annually in
Myrtle Beach and assists others doing the same thing. The group has a short guide
based on their experiences in setting up tournaments that they are happy to share.
Raising money and awareness for returning wounded is their main mission. Tee Off Fore
a Cause’s 2011 tournament is leading them in another direction of serving wounded
veterans and their families. The group had several Wounded Warrior Project alumni
take part in 2011 and that has motivated them to increase their efforts in 2012 to have
more warriors participate.
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
2
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.
March 8, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Business Aer Hours
South Atlantic Bank &
Magnolia’s at 26th
630 29th Ave. N., Myrtle Beach
Join the staff of South Atlantic Bank
for spirits, delicious hors d’oeuvres
served by Magnolia’s at 26th, networking and
South Atlantic Bank door prizes. The bank is located
on the corner of Grissom Parkway and 29th Avenue North.
Free, value-added benefit of chamber membership
Register at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com
Registration Deadline: March 6
March 22, 5:30-8 p.m.
Behind the Scenes
Barefoot Princess Riverboat
4932 Hwy. 17 South
North Myrtle Beach
Cruise the Intracoastal Waterway
aboard the Barefoot Princess Riverboat.
Listen to a guided tour as you enjoy snacks
and beverages. Please dress comfortably;
high-heeled shoes are not recommended.
Once the boat leaves the dock, it will not
return until 8 p.m. Boarding begins at 5:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: March 20
March 23, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
North Strand Council Meeting
Prince Resort at The Cherry Grove Pier
(3500 Ocean Grill Restaurant)
3500 N. Ocean Blvd., North Myrtle Beach
invite anyone who may be interested in the presentation.
To view last month’s North Myrtle Beach sports complex
presentation by John Bullard, director of NMB Parks &
Recreation, go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com/about/
committees.html and click on North Strand Council.
March 27, 9 a.m./April 24, 3 p.m.
Chamber Access – Member Orientation
Your All Access Pass to the Chamber
MBACC Boardroom, 1200 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach
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!
Register at ChamberAcademy.com
April 12, 4:30-7 p.m.
Behind the Scenes
Horry County Historical Society
606 Main St., Conway
Tour the 1912 Rebecca Bryan Historical House, headquarters
of the Horry County Historical Society. The Bryan House
features a large one-story, wrap-around porch and a secondstory sleeping porch. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn
about the history of Horry County!
Registration Deadline: April 10
1st Congressional District Representative Tim Scott will
discuss issues of importance to small businesses on the
Grand Strand, followed by a short question and answer
session. A light lunch buffet will be served. Feel free to
Grand Strander
3
Women’s Leadership Conference and
Celebration of Inspiring Women
‘’Speak UP! Give Voice to the Vision’’
March 19-20, 2012
Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel
The Women’s Leadership Conference educates, motivates
and challenges women to become change-makers in their
own lives, their communities and the world. The much
anticipated 2012 program includes a roster of notable
speakers from the fields of entrepreneurship, business,
media, politics and more. Below are just a few of the
inspiring speakers – visit wiplconference.com for the latest
lineup. Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
is a proud sponsor of the Women’s Leadership Conference.
• Vernice ‘’FlyGirl’’ Armour – First African-American
female combat pilot
• Molly Barker – Four-time Hawaii Ironman triathlete
• Theresa Earnheart – Motorsports isn’t just a
Good Ol’ Boys Club anymore!
• Roxana Saberi – Freelance journalist and author.
Former political prisoner.
• Tori Murden McClure – First woman to row solo and
unassisted across the Atlantic Ocean
• Inez Tenenbaum – Chairwoman of the U.S. Consumer
Product Safety Commission
At the conclusion of the conference, Women in Philanthropy
and Leadership for Coastal Carolina University hosts its
annual Celebration of Inspiring Women, which honors
individuals for their outstanding contributions to our state,
region, nation and world.
Conference Fees - Conference registration includes
access to plenary sessions, concurrent sessions, exhibit areas,
book-signings, lunch and breaks both days; networking
reception Monday evening; continental breakfast Tuesday
morning.
• Individual registration conference only: $249
• Group registration (five or more) conference only:
$220 per person
• Individual registration Celebration of Inspiring Women
only (March 20, 2012, 6:30 p.m.) cocktail reception,
seated dinner and awards program: $125
Resources for entrepreneurs
by Blakely Jenkins, IOM, MBACC membership & community programs manager
There is a lot of information needed to start up your own business. And what
you might not know is there are numerous places where you can find a lot of
the information needed. The difficult part is siing through all the data in our
information packed world. The article “Where Would an Entrepreneur Find
Helpful Information to Plan a New Business” written by Susan Baroncini-Moe
from Demand Media, gives helpful hints on the best resources to find all the
information needed. To see the resources, visit smallbusiness.chron.com/wouldentrepreneur-helpful-information-plan-new-business-2777.html.
Tips for First-Time Business Owners
Sometimes the best advice comes from those who have been there, done that.
That’s exactly what can be read about in the article “10 Tips for the First-Time
Business Owner” by Scott Gerber for Entrepreneur.com. To check out the advice
Gerber wishes someone had told him before he started his own business, go to
entrepreneur.com/article/203254.
Read more Small Business Buzz articles at
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com/member/small_business_buzz.html.
4
Focus on ...
CVB-Advertising
& Publicity Committee
The CVB-Advertising & Publicity
Committee oversees the various activities
related to marketing of tourism for
the Myrtle Beach area. The committee
provides strategic direction related to
public relations and publicity of the
Grand Strand to regional, national
and international markets.
“In general, the participation of
committees helps the chamber stay in
touch with the specific needs of our
membership and helps our chamber
raise its overall level of effectiveness in
developing our marketing initiatives,”
noted CVB-Advertising & Publicity
Committee Chairman Bob Jewell with
Brookgreen Gardens. “Specifically, the
CVB-Advertising & Publicity Committee
provides oversight, input and strategic
direction as it relates to our efforts to
promote the Grand Strand regionally,
nationally and internationally.
“None of this could be accomplished
without dedicated committee
members, and we appreciate their
time and commitment to this effort.
Our committee members are truly the
foundation of our success.”
If you would like to learn more about
the CVB-Advertising & Publicity
Committee, email Scott Schult, executive
vice president of marketing, at
[email protected].
CVB-Advertising & Publicity Committee
Bob Jewell ..............................................................................Chair, Brookgreen Gardens
Mike LaPier ...........................................Vice Chair, Myrtle Beach International Airport
Chris Shroff..................................................... Vice Chair, Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts
Charlie Belissary .........................................................................Sail and Ski Connection
Lisa Bourcier ..............................................Horry County-Government & Justice Center
Charlie Bradshaw ..........................................................................The Alabama Theatre
Jill Capps ...................................................................WonderWorks and Soar + Explore
Steve Chapman ..................................................................................Island Vista Resort
Florence Collins-Brown...............................................................................Sands Resort
Craig Conrad............................................................................................The Creel Corp.
Ted Fortenberry ........................................................................................ WMBF News
Brian Hardee ........................................................................ Ethan Allen Design Center
Sally Hogan ........................................................... Georgetown Chamber of Commerce
Billy Huggins ............................................................................WPDE NewsChannel 15
Matt Klugman ......................................................................VacationMyrtleBeach.com
O’Neil McCoy ............................................................................Burroughs & Chapin Co.
Lauren Morris ................................................... Horry County Department of Airports
Stan Rydelek ....................................................................................................Direct Air
Pam Shelley ....................................................................... Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
Annette Shepherd ........................................................................ The Brandon Agency
Richard Singleton ................................................. Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate
Ryan Swaim.................................................................... Dunes Realty Vacation Rentals
Jennifer Willard..................................................Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Wendy Willis ....................................................................... Ethan Allen Design Center
Bridgette Wilson ...........................................................Giant Crab Seafood Restaurant
CALL A
PROFESSIONAL
Finding reliable service providers
can be tough. But your
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber
of Commerce can help take
the worries out of it.
Whether you’re looking for a
printer to design and print your
business cards or an employment
agency to help you bring in
some part-time help, our online
business directory makes it
easy to find the services and
products you need. Search our
membership directory for more
than 2,400 chamber member
companies offering premier
business services throughout
the Grand Strand. Visit
and click on Business Directory.
Support your fellow
chamber members.
.
Grand Strander
5
Chamber Academy
Fire up your team in the HGTC kitchen
Are you looking for an innovative,
fun way to build a cohesive
team? Then Horry-Georgetown
Technical College’s Culinary Team
Building class is just for you! This
class is great for any business that
wants their “team” to work better
together!
Second Phase of the Class Moves
You to the Kitchen
• Your team will prep, cook, serve and enjoy a gourmet
meal!
• During the process, you will experience challenges to
your group’s creativity, communication skills, cooperation
and time management.
For more information, check out ChamberAcademy.com.
First Phase of the Class
• Activities designed to build relationships and create the
team environment.
• Get to know your fellow participants and build greater
cooperation, trust and cohesiveness.
Goodwill greeters
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 Myrtle Beach
Area Chamber of Commerce 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.
Why become a chamber ambassador?
Being an ambassador is an opportunity for you and
your employer to be in the spotlight. Ambassadors
gain business exposure by being the first to meet
chamber members and put their company’s name in
the forefront. By volunteering at chamber events and
attending the monthly ambassador meetings, your
business is always involved and kept current on
what is going on within the community.
What is required of an ambassador?
Ambassadors support the work of the Myrtle Beach
Area Chamber of Commerce by:
• Visiting new members to encourage involvement in
the many programs offered by the chamber.
• Visiting existing members to ensure that the chamber
is meeting their needs.
• Acting as host to introduce others.
• Greeting everyone at social functions, making others
feel welcome.
6
• Participating in ribbon-cuttings and grand openings
for chamber member businesses.
• Participating in monthly ambassador meetings.
Ambassadors are asked to serve for at least one year
and most choose to renew their ambassadorship.
“I have the opportunity to meet more
people as an ambassador, thereby
giving me more time to advance my
business. The end result is an increase
in my business.”
Jenafor Braley, distributor for
SendOutCards, has been a chamber
ambassador for 8 years. Read more
about Braley and her success with
the ambassador program in the
March Grand Strander Online.
How do I become a chamber ambassador?
If you’re a smiling face that wants to make new friends
and contacts, gain business exposure and share the
benefits and excitement of chamber membership,
it’s easy to become an ambassador. Complete the short
application form at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com/
member/ambassador_program. To learn more about
the program, visit the website or contact Pat Creed,
membership services manager, at (843) 916-7225
or [email protected].
Message to Our Members
Think Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is iconic for millions of vacationers who
enjoy the so white sand beaches, championship golf
courses, and amazing array of activities. A genuine treasure
by-the-sea, the Myrtle Beach area has become the number
one family beach in America. But ask anyone who decided
to make Myrtle Beach home, and you’ll quickly realize the
true treasure of the Myrtle Beach area is an unparalleled
quality of life.
The project started off with Equation Research untangling
the mix of emotional and rational factors involved in home
buying. Findings from Equation Research, along with input
from our in-house research department, noted several key
factors in home buying/real estate investments: value of
properties, affordability, cost of living, taxes, potential for
resale, health care, schools, and volunteer opportunities,
just to name a few.
Those who already call the Myrtle Beach area home know
why this is a great place to live. But for those thinking
about retiring, relocating or investing in a new community,
your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce is asking
them to “Think Myrtle Beach.”
The new real estate campaign will stress what locals have
known for years: Myrtle Beach’s business climate is warm
and inviting; top-notch health care is just minutes away;
the Grand Strand has sensational neighborhoods with their
own unique personalities; and when it comes to making
the grade, look no further than the Myrtle Beach area
schools. Along with these selling points, short sales and
foreclosures have pushed down the prices of all homes,
making it a fantastic time to buy, sellers are motivated, and
interest rates are at historic lows. Of course when it comes
to quality of life, you just can’t beat the Myrtle Beach area.
And when it comes to affordability, you’d be hard pressed
to find much to complain about!
“Shoot for the moon. Even if you
miss, you’ll land among the stars.”
– Les Brown
We know there are couples wanting to start a family and
looking for that perfect location to raise their children.
There are families who have grown and are searching for a
vibrant community with diverse cultural attributes that will
allow them to pursue personal interests and experiences.
And then there are those reaching for their dreams of
starting a business and looking for that winning location.
It’s these rare moments that compel us to think about that
place we call home. We ask ourselves, “Where do I want to
live?”
Check out the new website, give us your thoughts, and
join us in saying, “Welcome home.”
Brad Dean
President & CEO
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
Starting in early March, your chamber is rolling out a new
website (ThinkMyrtleBeach.com), TV commercials, print
ads and a real estate/relocation guide to ask people to think
about buying property in the area. We pulled in a team of
real estate chamber members along with other chamber
members interested in the real estate and relocation
markets to help us sell the destination as not only a place
to visit but as a place to call home.
Grand Strander
7
f.l.a.v.o.r., Continued From Cover
on display for the public to taste. There will be a beer
and wine garden, along with cooking demonstrations.
The event is free and open to the public. Food samples
will average one to three tickets, with each food ticket
costing $1. f.l.a.v.o.r. supports local culinary students from
Horry-Georgetown Technical College as they compete for
scholarship money during the event.
For more information, visit GrandStrandRestaurants.com.
Restaurants interested in participating should call Amie
Lee, director of festivals & special events at (843) 916-7238.
f.l.a.v.o.r. is presented by Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of
Commerce.
It’s all about the food at f.l.a.v.o.r. More than 30 local
restaurants will be offering samples of their specialties
at this year’s event.
Beach Blast! Christian Music Festival
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.
The MayFest Beach Blast kicked
off the summer for more than
8,500 music fans in downtown
Myrtle Beach in 2011. 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 the 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
8
The green life, Continued From Cover
soaps, shampoos, conditioners and lotions to help fight the
global spread of preventable diseases. The two local hotels
have partnered with Clean the World (cleantheworld.org),
which collects these amenities and distributes them to
impoverished countries.
Each day 9,000 children around the world die from
diseases such as acute respiratory illness and diarrheal
diseases that can be prevented by washing with bar soap.
Clean the World has a mission to put soap in the hands
of people who need it most to improve
hygiene and sanitation conditions
to lessen the impact of disease and
promote better hygiene and living
conditions worldwide.
“By partnering with Clean the World to
collect our soap, we truly have a chance
to leverage our resources to improve
hygiene and sanitation in disadvantaged
communities. It’s the responsible thing
to do,” said Janelle Tiderman, activities
manager for Wyndham Vacation Resorts.
Wyndham Vacation Resorts donates more than
1,000 pounds of soap a year. Marriott’s OceanWatch
Villas at Grande Dunes, which just joined the Clean the
World mission late last year, sent 510 pounds of soap
collected during November and December.
recycling,” noted General Manager Mike Reilly with
Marriott’s OceanWatch Villas at Grande Dunes. “It goes
to a great cause and the entire Marriott family is onboard.”
We want to hear from you
Two years ago, your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber
of Commerce created a green community at
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com/education/going_green.
html that enables business leaders to learn from their
peers, contribute ideas and success stories.
What is your business doing to be more
environmentally responsible? Please take a
few minutes to share your environmental best
practices with us so we can spread your green
business tips to your fellow chamber members.
We know that some members have already set
some great examples – the 2011 Operating
Green business award went to Murrells Inlet
Marsh Walk for the positive recycling efforts
of the restaurants along the Marsh Walk.
Now it’s time for your business to tell us how you’re
going green. Send your green tips and success stories,
and if you’re business offers green products or services,
fill us in on that too. Send your information to
[email protected]. Please include the
name of your business along with a contact name and
phone number, if we have questions.
“Clean the World sends us containers that we fill with
empty shampoo, conditioner and lotion containers for
Mary Mroz joins marketing group
Mary Mroz has joined Myrtle Beach
Area Chamber of Commerce’s
marketing department as the new
marketing specialist. Mroz brings
more than 10 years of experience in
marketing to the chamber.
Mroz previously worked for Burroughs
& Chapin Co. and the Ripley attractions
in the Myrtle Beach area.
As marketing specialist, Mroz is
responsible for coordinating annual
marketing campaigns, administering
traffic for creative development,
production for all advertising,
promotion and publicity, and
developing marketing communications
across various media channels.
A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth
University, Mroz received a bachelor’s
degree in recreation and tourism. She
resided in New York before moving to
Myrtle Beach in 1993. Mroz is married
to Bryan Mroz and they have two
children, Robbie, 11, and Breana, 9,
and a 5-year-old Beagle Hound named
Beau.
Grand Strander
9
South Carolina Hall of Fame
announces new inductees
Two remarkable contributors to the state of South Carolina
were recently inducted into the South Carolina Hall of Fame.
Thomas Lynch, Sr., Colonial representative and delegate
to the Continental Congress, was selected by the S.C. Hall
of Fame board of trustees as the 2012 deceased inductee,
while Judge Ernest A. Finney, Jr., an accomplished attorney,
legislator and jurist, was chosen as the contemporary
inductee.
Thomas Lynch, Sr. (1727-1776)
was admired by the 56 signers of the
Declaration of Independence more
than anyone else. The mark of their
high regard for Lynch is enshrined by
the blank space they created solely for
his signature. All 56 signers held him
in such high esteem that Lynch is the
only founding father whose son was
elected to replace his father. The reason for their high regard
for Lynch was based upon the role he played in events that
occurred between 1751 and 1776. Lynch was recognized by
South Carolina by his election to the Commons House of
Assembly in 1751 and was chosen for his work with George
Washington and the Continental Army.
Lynch was one of the most successful indigo and rice planters
in the Colony; as a result, he became the second wealthiest
individual in the Colony. Lynch was the leading statesman in
the Colony between 1751 and 1776. By his commitment to
Independence, Lynch sacrificed his own fortune. Lynch had
the respect of the Second Continental Congress to influence
the appointment of George Washington as the Commanderin-Chief of the Continental Army. Washington was not the
first choice of many, however, Lynch convinced the New
England delegation through John Adams and then convinced
the Southern delegation and thus the career of Washington
began.
Lynch’s achievements upon the world stage between
1751-1776 were as a leader in the Stamp Act Congress,
the 1st and 2nd Continental Congresses, and as a
representative of the Congress to George Washington
10
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.c
in 1776. Had it not been for Lynch, President George
Washington may have never risen to prominence. The
premature death of Lynch’s son in 1779 le no heir
to preserve his legacy. Now it should be preserved by
membership in the South Carolina Hall of Fame. Lynch
was invaluable to the independence of America. He
spearheaded the idea that the Legislative Branch of
Congress should consist of two houses, one to represent the
area and one to represent population. When there was a
movement to dissolve the Continental Army, it was Lynch,
Benjamin Franklin and Colonel Benjamin Harrison who
met successfully with Washington to save the Army and
Washington.
Ernest A. Finney, Jr., born March 23,
1931, was the first African-American
Supreme Court justice appointed
to the South Carolina Supreme
Court since the Reconstruction
Era. He currently resides in Sumter,
S.C. He is a member of Alpha Phi
Alpha fraternity. Finney was born
in Smithfield, Va. His mother died
when he was 10 days old so he was
raised by his father, Dr. Ernest A. Finney, Sr. Finney earned
a Bachelor of Arts from Claflin College in 1952. He then
enrolled in South Carolina State College’s School of Law
where he graduated in 1954. In the beginning, Finney was
unable to find work as a lawyer, so he followed in his father’s
footsteps and worked as a teacher. In 1960, Finney moved to
Sumter and began a full-time law practice.
In 1961, Finney represented the Friendship 9, a group of
black junior college students arrested and charged when
trying to desegregate McCrory’s lunch counter in Rock Hill,
S.C. In 1963, he served as chairman of the South Carolina
Commission on Civil Rights. Finney was elected to the
South Carolina House of Representatives in 1972. He was
subsequently appointed a member of the House Judiciary
Committee, making him the first African-American to serve
on that key committee in modern times. Finney was one of
the founders of the Legislative Black Caucus and served as
charter chairperson from 1973-1975. Among Finney’s other
accomplishments are a position on
the National College of State Trial
Judges, 1977; Honorary Doctor
of Laws degree, The Citadel and
Johnson C. Smith University, 1995;
Doctor of Humane Letters, S.C. State
University, 1996; Doctor of Laws,
Morris College, 1996; Doctorate,
Claflin University; Honoree, S.C. Trial
Lawyers Association, 1993; elected
and qualified judge of the Third
Judicial Circuit, 1976; and elected
and qualified associate justice, 1985.
In May 1994, the state’s general
assembly elected Finney to the
position of chief justice of the State
Supreme Court, effective December
1994, making him the first AfricanAmerican chief justice of South
Carolina since Reconstruction. In
1976, he won an election to become
South Carolina’s first black circuit
judge. He has been on the state
Supreme Court since 1985. Finney
retired from the state Supreme
Court in 2000 and was named
interim president of South Carolina
State University in 2002.
The Official S.C. Hall of fame is
located in the lobby of the Myrtle
Beach Convention Center, where
attendees can learn about the 85
inductees whose portraits reside.
Visit SouthCarolinaHallofFame.com
for additional information.
Grand Strand
TechEXPO set
for March 21
The Grand Strand Technology Council
presents the Grand Strand TechEXPO
on March 21 at the Sheraton Myrtle
Beach Convention Center Hotel.
Exhibitors provide a look at everything
from games to accounting, business
development, communications, home
enhancements, educational systems,
government services, engineering and
economic development. The TechEXPO
will be held from 12-6 p.m. with free
admission.
Exhibitors include such businesses as
Mercom, MetGlas, HTC, Pittsburgh
Institute of Aeronautics, Forego
Systems, TE Connectivity, Kennedy
Services, Brainchild, Coastal Carolina
University, Blast Off Games, Horry
County Schools, RF Communications
Design, CreateSouth, ForegoSystems,
Carolina Cool, Horry-Georgetown
Technical College, Carolina Solar
Security, Carolina DataComm, ITT
Technical Institute, Premiere Sound
Satellite & Security, Web Data Soware,
Wetstone Soware, Horry County
Government, Trade Show Express,
HUB International and others.
Full details on the TechEXPO, including
the schedule for keynote speakers, are
available at gstechexpo.org.
Grand Strander
11
PR Hotspot
Twitter 101: Basics you need to know for
your business to engage on Twitter
by Kimberly Miles, public relations manager
Twitter can now become one of the largest social media
microblogs to engage with potential clients, media or even
celebrities online. If you or your business aren’t currently
engaged on Twitter, now is the time! Below are a few tips
to help you get started:
1. Username: When setting up a Twitter account, the
username will be a reflection of your business. Keep it
simple by making your business name your username.
If that’s taken, then add an abbreviated location like MB
to the end of the name or similar.
2. Profile Bio: Unlike Facebook or Google+, you only have
140 characters to tell the Twitter universe who you are so
get the essential words in about your business and the type
of information you will be ‘Tweeting’ about. Make sure you
let people know why they should be following you and
what interesting information you will be providing.
3. Getting Followers: Of course, unless you’re Ashton
Kutcher, it may be a little difficult to get people to follow
you when you first join Twitter. The key thing to remember
though, it’s not necessarily the quantity of Twitter followers
you have, but the quality of those who are following you and
who are listening to what you have to say. Start following
the competitive businesses in your industry as well as people
who are following them. Do a search for your industry and
see who is already talking about you. When you follow
others, they may follow you. You can also get new followers
by retweeting what others have posted. For example,
RT @MyMyrtleBeach and check us out for the latest Myrtle
Beach area travel deals!
4. Post Interesting ‘Tweets’: When you post a message on
Twitter, you only have up to 140 characters to work with and
unlike other social media Twitter is meant to be used to share
your thoughts and links. If you are tweeting for a business,
post some tweets that look like a real person is behind them.
For example, when I tweet for Myrtle Beach, I’ll sometimes
go ‘Went to a great restaurant today. …‘ Also to maximize
your characters, use a free URL shortening site such as
http://bit.ly which not only shortens your links but tracks
who clicked on them as well.
5. Tweeting With Hashtags: Add the hashtag (#) symbol
in front of a keyword you think others will be talking about
such as #myrtlebeach and then when people search for
that tag they will find your tweet. Some other popular area
hashtags are #myr #sctweets #travel.
12
mber.com
Helpful Twitter Links
1. Twitpic: Service that allows you to share your photos
on Twitter.
2. TinyURL: Where you can shorten your URLs.
3. TwitterFall: Service that tracks Twitter trends.
4. Tweetdeck and Hootsuite: Allows you to manage your
Twitter site, prioritize Twitter users you are following.
5. Twittertise, Twuffer or FutureTweets: Free services that
allow you to schedule your tweets in advance so you can
stagger them out over time
What would you like to learn or see in a future PR Hotspot?
Want to be involved in this areas public relations efforts?
Have a PR related question? You can reach Kimberly Miles at
(843) 916-7218 or [email protected].
Print and Online Publicity Values
January 2012 Travel Coverage
Print Stories
22
Online Stories
187
Estimated Print Circulation 2,059,605
Online Unique VPM
199,505,037
(Visitors Per Month)
Estimated Publicity Value
$2,094,530
(Total for Print, Online)
Year-to-Date Total Travel
$2,094,530
Publicity Value
Source: CisionPoint Media Monitoring
Print and Online Publicity Values
January 2012 Debate Coverage
(Including Sand Sculpture)
Print Stories
201
Online Stories
2,370
Broadcast Stories
1,767
Total Impressions
6,443,803,180
(Including Social Media)
Total Publicity Value
$70,580,448
(Print, Online, Broadcast)
Source: CisionPoint Media Monitoring
Myrtle Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
INSIDER
March 2012
CVB-Group Sales
Heating up in 2012
by Danna Lilly, CMP, director of sales, Myrtle Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
As the CVB-Group Sales team blazes through the first
quarter of a new year, we happily share some of our top
successes in 2011, which provide a solid foundation for
continued growth in 2012.
As the sales team is now knee deep into 2012, here are
a few of the exciting things that have already occurred
or will be happening soon to keep the momentum
moving forward.
2011 year-end numbers were at an all-time high,
surpassing record numbers pre-recession. The team
collectively generated 675 leads for group business,
a 26 percent increase when compared to year prior.
Within those calculations, the meeting and convention
market saw an amazing growth of 76 percent over 2010
actuals, a welcomed sign that this market is making a
rebound and beginning to plan for the future. In general,
group business requires a longer time period to cultivate
and actualize, but the increase experienced this past year
in lead production gives much more opportunity for
groups to become definite bookings in the future.
Group Tour/Motorcoach – The CVB team and
approximately 20 member hotels, restaurants and
theaters began the year on Jan. 8 in Grapevine, Texas,
to play host to more than 500 top tour operators from
around the country. Team Myrtle Beach opened up the
American Bus Association’s 2012 Marketplace for the
fourth consecutive year with an hourlong breakfast
and entertainment that was nothing but Myrtle Beach!
Entertainers from The Carolina Opry wowed the crowd
and sales reps spent the remainder of the week in daily
appointments to book future tours into the area.
Conversion of leads to actual bookings also experienced
growth in 2011, with a team actual of 131,965 definite
room nights booked, a 13 percent increase as compared
to year prior.
So, what do all these numbers mean, how are they
significant and how do they really affect overall tourism
in Myrtle Beach? It’s sometimes difficult to understand
or even appreciate if you’re not a business that deals
with groups on a daily basis. Here’s an example of one
association meeting held in 2011 and the impact to our
local economy based on calculations by DMAI Event
Impact Calculator:
650 people for a three-night convention
created ...
1306.17 room nights
$845,472 in direct and indirect spending
Employed 248 persons
Produced $51,993 in local taxes
VisitMyrtleBeach.com
Sports Tourism – 2012 will be a great year for avid
runners in Myrtle Beach as we welcome back two past
events and one new
for the Grand Strand.
Youth baseball and
soccer will continue
to bring in the
families and we’ll
also see lacrosse and
indoor volleyball
activate at a
fast pace. Mark your
calendars for the
Runners celebrate at the 2011
following events as
Myrtle Beach Mini Marathon.
there’s always a spot
for participant and volunteers –
May 19-20, 2012 – Divas Half Marathon
Oct. 13, 2012 – Myrtle Beach Classic Triathlon
Oct. 20-22 – Myrtle Beach Mini Marathon
Group Sales Heating Up, See Insider Back Cover
March 2012
HORRY COUNTY ADMISSIONS TAX
14.5%
$1,700,000
$1,500,000
$750,000
$450,000
7.4%
-6.2%
2.5%
-24.2%
-0.1%
3.1%
14.8%
$1,200,000
Percentages
Shown Are
Percent Change
From Previous
Year
9.7%
13.1%
1.6%
-0.4%
$0
Dec 10
Jan 11
Feb 11
Mar 11
Apr 11
May 11
Jun 11
Jul 11
Aug 11
Sep 11
Oct 11
Nov 11
$356,484
$216,238
$303,248
$593,991
$1,020,181
$668,014
$1,206,382
$1,673,151
$1,250,676
$648,313
$649,615
$465,210
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%
5.3%
-53.2%
26.4%
14.9%
-11.5%
-17.5%
3.8%
$0
Dec 10
Jan 11
Feb 11
Mar 11
Apr 11
May 11
Jun 11
Jul 11
Aug 11
Sep 11
Oct 11
Nov 11
$29,360
$31,045
$40,876
$95,139
$138,930
$102,536
$64,305
$55,482
$44,549
$66,075
$94,586
$51,906
HORRY COUNTY ACCOMMODATIONS TAX COLLECTION
4.9%
$4,200,000
2.1%
$3,200,000
$2,200,000
29.4%
$1,200,000
$0
-4.1%
-6.5%
16.0%
Percentages
Shown Are
Percent Change
From Previous
Year
1.9%
7.1%
8.9%
5.2%
15.6%
-4.4%
Dec 10
Jan 11
Feb 11
Mar 11
Apr 11
May 11
Jun 11
Jul 11
Aug 11
Sep 11
Oct 11
Nov 11
$269,530
$233,204
$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
GEORGETOWN COUNTY ACCOMMODATIONS TAX COLLECTION
1.6%
$420,000
$320,000
9.3%
0.0%
$220,000
$120,000
$0
-55.3%
0.9%
-6.1%
18.4%
2.2%
1.2%
44.8%
-4.4%
15.1%
Dec 10
Jan 11
Feb 11
Mar 11
Apr 11
May 11
Jun 11
Jul 11
Aug 11
Sep 11
Oct 11
Nov 11
$16,012
$17,404
$20,666
$48,551
$88,749
$100,850
$252,603
$404,842
$253,945
$122,165
$62,300
$38,756
HORRY COUNTY GROSS RETAIL SALES
$1,100,000,000
$850,000,000
27.7%
18.0%
21.7%
27.5%
$650,000,000
18.2%
20.9%
-12.6%
2.4%
-13.1%
-9.6%
-17.0%
16.8%
$450,000,000
$0
Nov 10
Dec 10
Jan 11
Feb 11
Mar 11
Apr 11
May 11
Jun 11
Jul 11
Aug 11
Sep 11
Oct 11
$663,012,927
$678,641,336
$535,577,569
$598,822,943
$748,376,097
$688,160,544
$872,199,417
$1,014,810,293
$851,606,942
$801,891,704
$617,471,174
$554,726,964
Percentages
Shown Are
Percent
Change From
Previous Year
GEORGETOWN COUNTY GROSS RETAIL SALES
46.4%
$130,000,000
$100,000,000
24.0%
20.6%
30.2%
14.4%
3.7%
-7.4%
5.9%
-0.4%
4.9%
-10.7%
-4.4%
$75,000,000
$35,000,000
$0
Nov 10
Dec 10
Jan 11
Feb 11
Mar 11
Apr 11
May 11
Jun 11
Jul 11
Aug 11
Sep 11
Oct 11
$91,371,290
$124,785,067
$88,216,070
$89,502,765
$116,056,855
$109,917,745
$126,681,554
$128,995,594
$113,227,615
$105,045,379
$98,930,809
$89,532,305
For more information regarding additional research conducted by the chamber, contact Wendy Bernstein at [email protected]
Sources: S.C. Departments of PRT and Revenue
March 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
Jan
Feb
% Change
33.56%
2012
641,377
2011
480,220
Jul
Mar
587,796
Apr
662,043
Aug
Sep
May
617,618
754,977
Oct
Jun
Nov
Dec
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
17.20%
2012
600,449
2011
512,349
564,459
782,796
685,224
812,265
1,198,706
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
1,009,894
% Change
Feb
% Change
+19.31%
Amusements
+11.62%
Theaters
+6.64%
Dining
+21.69%
Shopping
+9.73%
Watersports
+25.61%
Weddings
+52.30%
Golf
-15.91%
Addt’l Services
Fishing
% Change
2012
2011
% Change
Lodging
-1.45%
+22.44%
*Jan. 1-Jan. 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*
(Dec. 17, 2011 - Jan. 28, 2012)
(Dec. 17, 2011 - Jan. 28, 2012)
100%
0%
$150
$100
DOLLARS
PERCENT
75%
5%
50%
0%
23.73%
25%
5%
20.78%
$75
$52.68
$51.46
$50
$25
0%
$0
2011
2012
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
2011
19.30%
32.20%
45.10%
58.10%
50.90%
73.60%
2010
21.40%
29.60%
44.90%
54.20%
47.40%
77.40%
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
2011
2012
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
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%
DECEMBER AIRPORT ARRIVALS**
May
Jun
2011
$52.58
$55.64
$68.70
2010
$46.31
$54.26
$69.84
$86.99
$100.14
$129.45
$85.48
$90.29
Jul
Aug
Sep
$121.07
Oct
Nov
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
2012
2011
2012
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
2010
Arrivals
2011
2010
2011
Change
41,772
38,938
-6.78%
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].
March 2012
YEAR OVER YEAR
800,000
Group Sales Heating Up Co-op Corner
Continued From Insider Cover
Meeting and Convention – MAM FAM 2012 is
an exclusive meeting planner familiarization trip for
25 planners anchored around Monday Aer the Masters.
Potential clients will spend two days discovering all the
reasons that Myrtle Beach is the perfect destination for
hosting great meetings and then they’ll finish it up with
a day of entertainment as a spectator at Monday Aer
the Masters.
Only in its
second year,
this annual fam
trip has quickly
become known
in the industry as
one of the best
and qualified
planners are now
Musician Josh Kelley performs at the
competing
2011 Monday Aer the Masters.
to participate.
International Update – Harrods Department Store
in London, England, is considered to be the world’s
most luxurious department store with more than
42,000 visitors daily. Myrtle Beach Area CVB is working
in conjunction with Charleston and Hilton Head on
an eight-week advertising campaign, which includes
window displays, digital screen networks throughout the
store, four-page spread in a magazine and sponsorship
of the Harrods Double Decker London Tour Bus. We’re
very excited about this first-time opportunity of creating
brand awareness and attracting more visitors from the
United Kingdom.
Stay tuned for more exciting news as we head
into 2012. Check out our trade show schedule at
MyrtleBeachAreaMarketing.com and read the
CVB Insider for updates.
Where in
the world
is the CVB?
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.
Meetings Focus South Magazine
May 2012 – Beach Meetings
Meetings Focus South delivers in-depth news, topical
features and thorough destination coverage of the
Southern meeting market. Meetings Focus South covers
hotel, resort, convention and conference facilities;
interesting event venues; renovation updates; industry
news; and topical articles of general interest to meeting
professionals. Meetings Focus South subscribers come
from a wide variety of industries and business ranging
from manufacturing to medical/pharmaceutical,
communication to finance and education to health care.
The magazine is published 12 times a year.
Space Deadline: March 26, 2012
Materials Deadline: March 30, 2012
Ad Specs: 3.75” wide x 4.75” high
Cost: 1/4 page, 4 color – $1,955 per issue
Circulation: 25,139
Disclaimer: In order for this co-op to run, we must have a
minimum of four advertisers. Payment terms: Payment due
immediately upon receiving invoice from chamber. All sales are
final.
March 4-7, 2012
March 7-11, 2012
Travel South
Showcase
ITB Berlin
Convention
Louisville, KY
Berlin,
Germany
CVB-Group Sales is busy this month welcoming
one group with 250 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.
March 2012
Cut costs and save money
Money-saving programs
for MBACC members
Membership in Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce is more valuable
than ever before. As a MBACC member, you’re eligible for the programs listed
below – all designed to put dollars to your bottom line or help you grow your
business. Use these programs to offset expenses and your membership can
pay for itself. Learn more at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Member
Benefits/Save Money.
BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
Sam’s Club
BlueCross 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, Curtis Richardson, at
(888) 213-8948, ext. 5499.
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,
president/ecopreneur, 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
Year-Over-Year Moving Average RevPAR
Remains Positive
by Dr. Taylor Damonte, director of the 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
The graphs to the right reflect the rebound in average
occupancy that occurred during the months of October
and December of 2011 compared to that of 2010
(see performance statistics published in this edition of the
Myrtle Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Insider). The
52-week average percent occupied statistic had been falling
since the beginning of June 2011 but rebounded in October
and has again been in positive territory since the last week of
2011.
Most of the other primary and secondary indicators of local
lodging and tourism demand that the Center monitors are up
between 4 percent and 7 percent compared to the previous
year. The moving 52-week average daily rate did not begin
to decline until the beginning of the fall season of 2011
and still shows a rate of improvement of nearly 4 percent.
Consequently, the rate of change in revenue per available
unit continues to be holding at approximately 5 percent.
The Center also studies the vacation rental segment through
observing more than 200 randomly chosen reservations
websites for each rental week. Based on the apparent rate
of bookings and the advertised average weekly prices, the
52-week moving average rate of change in revenue per
available unit in that segment is currently up by 6.5 percent
compared with the previous 52 weeks.
Two secondary indicators of demand, Horry County
hospitality fees and state accommodations revenues for
Horry County, were up 5.1 percent and 4.7 percent,
respectively, for the second quarter of fiscal year 2012
(October, November and December) compared to the
second quarter of FY 2011.
For the most recent 52 weeks, the size of the Center’s sample
of hotel, condo-hotel, and campsite properties in Horry
County averaged 10,188 rental units weekly. Approximately
41 percent of these were hotel lodging units, 51 percent were
condo-hotel lodging units, and 8 percent were campground
units. The Center creates occupancy forecasts for its sample
of hotels, condo-hotels, and campsites based on the rate of
change in the level of vacation rental properties available to
rent on the Internet as far out as six weeks in advance of the
arrival date for any rental week. These occupancy forecasts
are provided to research participants each week.
For information on how to participate in the Center’s
ongoing “tourism economy study,” contact Dr. Taylor
Damonte at [email protected] or Gary Lous at
glo[email protected].
14
&
Up Close
l
a
n
o
Pers
by Nora Hembree,
media communications
manager
Suzanne Hinde
general manager of
Sheraton Myrtle Beach
Convention Center Hotel
and MBACC board member
Suzanne Hinde
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Clemmons, N.C., but I am originally from
Malone, N.Y., so every vacation or long weekend we
went to upstate New York to be near family.
What is your favorite thing about living in the
Myrtle Beach area?
What’s not to like? It has everything we want.
Describe your perfect weekend.
A perfect weekend would be a weekend with
nothing to do.
Who is your role model and why?
My father is my role model. He has a strong work ethic
and strong family values. A man truly respected by all
people that he meets.
If you were stranded on a desert island and could
only have three things with you, what would they be?
I would want my husband, a flashlight and a knife.
What do you consider your greatest personal
accomplishment?
My family is my greatest accomplishment. I have
a wonderful husband and three fabulous kids.
If you won the lottery today, what would be
your first purchase?
I would buy a boat and then a car.
What is one of your greatest strengths?
I am a very patient person.
What is your favorite quote?
“Either you run the day or the day runs you.” – Jim Rohn
What do you consider to be the best part of your job?
The interaction that I have daily with my staff and guests.
What motivates you to do your best?
I truly believe in giving it my all. I don’t know any
other way.
Are you a dog or a cat person?
I am a dog person.
If you were ice cream, what flavor would you be?
I would be ‘Cookies and Cream.’
What is your all-time favorite movie?
“Hunt for Red October.”
What qualities do you value most in others?
I value honesty in others most.
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
I am a morning person.
What cartoon character best describes you? Why?
The cartoon character that best describes me is ‘Road
Runner’ because I’m always on the move and multitasking.
What were your favorite subjects in school?
My favorite subject was math.
What was the last book that you read?
The last book I read was “Kill Alex Cross”
by James Patterson.
If you were a superhero, what would be your
superhero name and power?
I would be ‘Wonder Woman.’
Grand Strander
15
&
Up Close
l
a
n
o
Pers
by Nora Hembree,
media communications
manager
Rick Taylor
information specialist
Rick Taylor (back row) with family.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Prince George County, Md.
What is your favorite thing about living in the
Myrtle Beach area?
My favorite thing about living in the Myrtle Beach area
is walking on the beach at night and watching the stars.
Describe your perfect weekend.
It starts Friday at 5:15 p.m. with a walk along the
beach with my wife to a restaurant for dinner followed
by a slow, long walk along the beach back to the car.
Saturday morning starts with the grandkids visiting and a
‘granddaddy, granddaddy wake up,’ followed by a nonstop
day of adventure and fun. Sunday morning we would be
at the early church service and then going out to eat with
friends.
What do you consider your greatest personal
accomplishment?
Some of my greatest personal accomplishments were the
first ones I made while working with the Montgomery
County Fire Service.
If you won the lottery today, what would be
your first purchase?
I would pay off our house.
What is one of your greatest strengths?
I enjoy talking and working with people.
What is one of your greatest weaknesses?
I’m a terable speller.
What is your favorite quote?
“The early bird gets the worm.”
What do you consider to be the best part of your job?
I get to meet and talk with people from all over the world.
What motivates you to do your best?
What motivates me is the knowledge that I may have the
opportunity in a small way to make someone’s day a little
better.
16
Where is your favorite place to vacation and why?
Disney World – I can be a kid again and I won’t grow up!!
What is something that few people know about you?
I have lived in all 50 states and most provinces of Canada.
If you were ice cream, what flavor would you be?
If I were an ice cream flavor I would be ‘Deluxe Churned
French Silk.’
What is your all-time favorite movie?
I love all of the James Bond movies with Sean Connery.
They are fun and light-hearted.
What qualities do you value most in others?
I value trustworthiness and humor most.
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
I’m a ‘Good Morning!’ person.
What cartoon character best describes you? Why?
Goofy describes me best because he loves to have fun
and does not take himself or others too seriously.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself back on the road again, traveling and taking
our grandkids on road trips to some of our national parks.
What were your favorite subjects in school?
My favorite subjects were math and, a subject no longer
taught in school, PE.
What was the last book that you read?
The last book I read was ”5000 Year Leap.”
If you were a superhero, what would be your
superhero name and power?
My name would be ‘Space Traveler,’ and my power would
be the ability to travel through space with no ship or
supplies – just put my arms out and go, go, go visit all the
planets, stars and places we know nothing about.
Economic Indicators
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 N O V E M B E R 2 0 11
LOCATION
Single Family Units
Single Family Units Cost
Multi-Family Bldgs.
Multi-Family Units
Multi-Family Bldgs. Cost
Myrtle Beach
Unincorporated
0
$0
0
0
$0
105
$15,876,168
0
0
$0
North
Myrtle Beach
18
$4,241,714
0
0
$0
Surfside
Beach
1
$166,962
0
0
$0
Georgetown
County
9
$190,916
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 N O V E M B E R 2 0 10
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
1
$600,000
0
0
$0
92
$11,371,309
1
17
$1,200,000
16
$3,368,325
1
3
$456,839
0
$0
0
0
$0
7
$1,697,458
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 Kate Miles, North Strand sales manager, (843) 916-7234, [email protected], or
Pam Wright, South Strand sales manager, (843) 916-7220, [email protected].
The BlueWater Resort
Hotel-Motel
Bobby Bruecken
2001 S. Ocean Blvd.
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
(843) 626-8345
(800) 845-6994
bluewaterresort.com
Carolina Forest Hearing Center, P.C.
Hearing Aids
Terry Shumway
3885 Renee Dr., Ste. 102
(843) 903-0635
carolinaforesthearingcenter.com
ConwayJournal.com
Radio Stations
Eddie Paul
209-B Laurel St.
Conway, SC 29526
(843) 446-3191
conwayjournal.com
The Facial Aesthetic Center
Physicians & Surgeons - MD
Kelly Hrvanovic
3700 Palmetto Pointe
(843) 294-1990
scface.com
Fahlgren Mortine
Advertising-Agencies/Consultants
Neil Mortine
4030 Easton Station, Ste. 300
Columbus, OH 43219
(614) 383-1500
fahlgrenmortine.com
Gordon Biersch
Restaurant-Casual
Phillip Galloway
3060 Howard Ave.
(843) 839-0249
gordonbiersch.com
18
MyrtleBeachA
Myrtle Beach Car Club
Nonprofit
Tony McDonald
PO Box 31072
(843) 655-7300
myrtlebeachcarclub.com
Total Comfort Solutions
Air Conditioning & Heating
Ben Cribb
7011 Hwy. 90, Ste. C
Longs, SC 29568
(843) 877-3232
totalcomfortsolutions.com
North State Storage, LLC
Self Storage
Patrick Kennedy
338 Jesse St.
(843) 236-6333
northstatestorage.com
WhatWorks, LLC
Consultants
Diane Tinney
1413 Hwy. 17 S., #156
Surfside Beach, SC 29575
(843) 839-0588
whatworksmb.com
Palmetto Event Productions, Inc.
Event-Planner
Genevieve Blackwell
PO Box 8143
(803) 586-8123
Wheelchair and Scooter Rentals
of Myrtle Beach
Wheelchair Transportation
Mik Musilunas
(843) 457-7749
wheelchair-medical-scooter-rentals.com
Rejoice Studios
Radio Stations
Reggie Dyson
4337 Big Barn Dr.
Little River, SC 29566
(843) 399-2653
rejoice1200.com
SC Campaign to Prevent
Teen Pregnancy
Organizations/Clubs
Forrest Alton
3650 Claypond Rd.
(843) 742-5231
teenpregnancysc.org
Stockton Infrared Thermographic
Services, Inc.
Energy Conservation
Eric Stockton
8472 Adams Farm Rd.
Randleman, NC 27317
(336) 689-4354
(800) 248-7226
stocktoninfrared.com
Promote
your
business
Business
Bulletin
Business Bulletin
with coupons
Drive more customers to your
business through online coupons.
Members can post their own
coupons or discounts through
the Members Only section of
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of
Commerce’s website. This program
offers an easy way to promote
your business to the general public
and is included as a member
benefit at no additional charge. Go
to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com
and click on the Members Only
button to share your discounts on
both the chamber’s website and
the chamber’s new mobile Web
app.
DOJ takes hard line, Continued From Page 22
Below is a brief summary of the DOJ’s policy
on pool lis:
Small businesses may claim the credit if they meet one of
the following criteria:
What You Need to Know
• Had revenues equaling less than $1,000,000
for the previous tax year; or
• Have thirty (30) or fewer full-time employees.
• Lis need to be available and in position at each pool
at all times when a pool is open to the public.
• Only “fixed” lis are acceptable, unless a hotel can
demonstrate that installing such a li is not readily
achievable.**
• For pools owned by state and local governments,
sharing lis between two pools is not
allowed, unless the entity can show an
“undue burden.”
• Lis cannot be shared between a
pool and a spa.
• Pool li batteries must be fully
charged and ready for use at all times
the pool is open.
Please note that the credit only applies to architectural
adaptations and equipment purchases for existing
facilities. Please contact your accountant or qualified tax
preparer for information on how to take advantage of this
benefit.
**If it is not readily achievable to have
a fixed li, then a portable one can be
used if it meets the 2010 standards
requirements and the li is securely in
place during all operating hours.
Tax Credits and Deductions
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has
allowed small businesses to claim the
Disabled Access Credit if they incur
expenses to accommodate disabled guests
by making architectural adaptations and
purchasing equipment – including
ADA-compliant pool lis.
Grand Strander
19
gsSCENE
www.gsSCENE.com
gsSCENE hosts its successful
‘Conversation With a CEO’
gsSCENE Events
for third time
Third time’s a charm, or first time and second time!
In January 2011, gsSCENE decided to have an event
where its members could meet and greet some
of our community’s leaders. And it’s not just that
they would meet
them, attendees had
a chance to listen to
each CEO give their
background and
words of wisdom
for how they got
to where they are
today. The event was such a success, gsSCENE held
a second “Conversations With a CEO” in September
of last year. Aer the event sold out for a second
time, gsSCENE decided to hold this professional
development session twice a year and each time
bring in new and different perspectives from some
of our local CEOs.
This time the event will be held March 27 from
11:30 a.m.to 1 p.m. at Prestwick Country Club
(1001 Links Rd., Myrtle Beach). Attendees will
have the first 30 minutes to greet one-on-one
the speakers and then the session moves into the
featured speakers giving their talk. This session is
comprised of some of the most diverse group of
speakers yet.
Attendees will hear from:
• Dr. David DeCenzo, president of
Coastal Carolina University
• Stella Mercado, CEO for Mercom Corp.
• Doug White, president of Grand Strand Regional
Medical Center
This session is only open for gsSCENE members and
will fill up fast! To register visit www.gsSCENE.com.
20
Register at www.gsSCENE.com
March 14 • 7:45-9 a.m.
Morning Rush Networking Breakfast
Location: Myrtle Beach Pelicans Stadium Suite
BB&T Coastal Field, 1251 21st Ave. N., Myrtle Beach
Cost: Free for gsSCENE members
Morning Rush is a networking event limited to 20 people where
you learn a whole new way of getting to know other young
professionals. Enjoy acomplimentary breakfast and meet someone
new!
March 19 • 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Women in Philanthropy & Leadership Conference
and Young Professionals Event
Location: Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention
Center Hotel, 2101 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach
Enjoy two days of award-winning speakers and networking at the
Women’s Leadership Conference (see Page 4). Aer the conference
on March 19, gsSCENE members and other young professionals
will have the opportunity to network with attendees from the
event and then move into a round-table discussion with one of the
conferences speakers, Suzanne Evans (http://suzanneevans.org). This
event is free to those already attending the Women in Philanthropy
& Leadership Conference and for those who just want to attend the
young professionals event, the cost is $15.
April 14 • 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Kickin’ it for Charity Kickball Tournament
Presented by A&I Fire and Water Restoration
Location: The Ripken Experience
3051 Ripken Way Blvd., Myrtle Beach
Now’s the time to show off your kicking skills and play in this oneday tournament that benefits a great cause, Substitutes for Santa.
Registration is open to 16 teams and cost is $249 per team. Who’s
going to take the championship away from last year’s winning
team, Kick Buttowski?
Business Bulletin
Inside Tracks
The Brandon Agency has expanded
video production and media services
departments with the additions of
Jim Jackson as video production
manager and Stephanie Carr as
media coordinator.
Carolina Trust Federal Credit Union
(21st Ave. N., Myrtle Beach)
announced the following new hires:
James Weigand joined as sales finance
coordinator; DJ Phillips and Keena
Carter are new tellers; and Bud Jones
joined as a facilities specialist.
South Atlantic Bank (630 29th Ave. N.,
Myrtle Beach) announced the
appointment of Mandy Lischner
as a teller and that three employees
have taken on new roles within the
bank’s loan operations function:
Karen Atwood Ervin, vice president,
has been appointed to the new position
of director of loan administration;
Leslie Wdowiak has been named
vice president and appointed to
the new position of director of loan
servicing; and Shirley Kulcsar has been
promoted to assistant vice president
and appointed to the new position of
loan administration specialist.
Continuing Education
Ethan Carney of Chicora Association
Management recently earned the
Certified Manager of Community
Associations credential awarded by
the National Board of Certification for
Community Association Managers.
The CMCA credential signifies that the
manager has met the requirements and
passed the national exam for managing
homeowner associations.
Applause, Applause
BizTradeShows.com has named the
Hotel, Motel and Restaurant Supply
Show of the Southeast as one of the
BizTradeShows.com Top 30 Events
of January 2012. BizTradeShows.com
is the largest directory of trade fairs,
business exhibitions and trade shows.
Leisure Time Unlimited is owner,
developer and producer of the Hotel,
Motel and Restaurant Supply Show of
the Southeast.
The National Tour Association voted
The Carolina Opry the No. 2 Favorite
Theater/Show Venue in the country
in its annual list of the ‘’Distinguished
Dozen.’’ And Myrtle Beach was voted as
the second Favorite Destination for Sun
and Sand.
McNair Law Firm, P.A. announced
that attorney Henrietta Golding
has been selected as a recipient of
the South Carolina Lawyers Weekly
2012 Leadership in Law Award. This
award spotlights those within the
legal community who are working to
better the legal profession through
involvement within their community as
well as going above and beyond in their
everyday job. Golding, a shareholder in
McNair’s Myrtle Beach office, is in the
firm’s litigation practice and primarily
practices labor and employment
law (with a specialty in labor and
employment law) as well as banking law
and civil and commercial litigation.
Hospitality Sales & Marketing
Association International recognized
Myrtle Beach Area Convention and
Visitors Bureau for two winning entries
in the 55th annual Adrian Awards,
the largest and most prestigious travel
marketing competition globally. The
Myrtle Beach Area CVB received
the silver Anvil award for the public
relations campaign for the Myrtle Beach
boardwalk opening. A bronze Anvil was
awarded for a feature Myrtle Beach
boardwalk story placement in “Budget
Travel” magazine.
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.
Out and About
Michael Jordan, social media manager
for The Brandon Agency, recently
presented to the Georgia Association
of Agricultural Fairs and South Carolina
Association of Fairs 2012 Convention
in Atlanta, Ga. The Association of Fairs
mission is to educate and assist in the
improvement of fairs, shows, expositions
and allied fields. Jordan discussed topics
on the evolution of social media, what
role it plays in the marketing mix,
and how it can be used as a customer
relationship management tool. He also
took part in a lengthy question and
answer session on social media.
Angie Shoemaker with RE/MAX Beach
& Golf was the top producer for 2011.
Grand Strander
21
Hospitality Partnership
Trio Dinner
MBHospitality.org
HospitalityPartnership.com
‘Great food, great chefs for a great cause.’
Don’t miss out on this wonderful evening bringing together
the Grand Strand’s best executive chefs and the students
they mentor. Along with excellent fare and beverages,
the event includes entertainment by Coastal Carolina
University’s Jazz Aer Hours and Aer Hours Combo bands
and a silent auction benefiting hospitality educational
programming.
“The Trio Dinner is a world-class event – great food, great
chefs for a great cause,” said Chef Mike Ford, executive chef
at the Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel.
“The event is such a wonderful opportunity for the chefs to
showcase their culinary
abilities and to work with the
students, knowing that we’re
mentoring our future chefs.”
ONE
by Stephen Greene, MBAHA president
It is that time of the year when we need your support for
the 2012 Trio Dinner, which will be held Monday, April 16,
6:30 p.m. at the Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center
Hotel. We are asking you to consider purchasing tickets in
support of the Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association.
This event is very important
to the Grand Strand culinary
arts programs as a portion of the proceeds go to MBAHA
scholarship funds directed at hospitality and culinary
education. More than $18,000 has been contributed to
MBAHA’s educational endeavors since the program’s
inception.
Tickets are $85 per person; $160 per couple; $600 table
of eight; $750 table of 10 (includes reserved seating and
sponsor recognition on table). Sponsorship opportunities
start at $750. For more information, call (843) 626-9668
or visit TrioDinner.org.
Hospitality Day at the Statehouse
Attend the legislative luncheon and be an advocate for your business
Every day at the Statehouse in Columbia,
legislators are treated to breakfasts,
luncheons, cocktail receptions and dinners
by organizations or businesses interested in
the legislative process. These events provide
business people with the opportunity to
not only let lawmakers get to meet and talk
with their constituents, but they also show
legislators that the group is concerned about
the laws being considered that impact their
business.
The hospitality industry’s day to network
with state legislators and showcase the
industry’s importance on the state’s
economy is scheduled for April 18 from
11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Statehouse.
All hotel and restaurant operators are
encouraged to attend
to make sure lawmakers
understand how the laws
and regulations they are
debating will impact
your businesses.
Hospitality Day at the
Statehouse, featuring a “Taste of South
Carolina,” draws restaurants from all across
the state to serve a taste of their menu
specialties. Transportation to and from the
event will be provided. To learn more about
this event, visit MBHospitality.org.
A ‘Taste of South Carolina’
features restaurants from across
the state serving samples of
their menus. This year’s event
takes place April 18 at the
Statehouse in Columbia.
DOJ takes hard line on ADA pool li guidance
by Stephen Greene, MBAHA president
Aer months of pressure from AH&LA, the Department of
Justice (DOJ) recently issued a burdensome interpretation of
when and how lis need to be installed at swimming pools
under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
DOJ takes hard line, See Page 19
22
Calendar
Mar 8...............................................
South Atlantic Bank and
Magnolia’s at 26th • 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Mar 13.............................................
Myrtle Beach Ambassadors • 8 a.m.
Mar 14.............................................
gsSCENE Morning Rush
Networking Breakfast
7:45-9 a.m. • gsSCENE.com
South Strand Ambassadors • 8 a.m.
Organizational Leadership
8-11:30 a.m. • ChamberAcademy.com
Mar 19.............................................
gsSCENE
Women in Philanthropy &
Leadership Conference & Young
Professionals Event
5:30-7:30 p.m. • gsSCENE.com
Mar 20.............................................
Finance Review Committee • 2 p.m.
Board of Directors • 3:30 p.m.
Mar 22.............................................
Behind the Scenes
Barefoot Princess Riverboat
5:30-8 p.m.
Mar 23.............................................
Legislative Policy Council • 9 a.m.
North Strand Council
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
March & April
Mar 27.............................................
Chamber Access • 9 a.m.
ChamberAcademy.com
gsSCENE
Conversations With a CEO
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. • gsSCENE.com
MBAHA/Hospitality Partnership
Hospitality Night at
The Market Common
5-8 p.m. • MBHospitality.org
Mar 28.............................................
Mar 30.............................................
gsSCENE Community Service
Volunteering at Special Olympics
9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. • gsSCENE.com
Apr 3 ...............................................
CVB-Group Sales Committee
2:30 p.m.
Apr 4 ...............................................
South Strand Council
8:30-9:30 a.m.
Apr 5 ...............................................
f.l.a.v.o.r. • 5-8:30 p.m.
GrandStrandRestaurants.com
Apr 10 .............................................
Myrtle Beach Ambassadors • 8 a.m.
Apr 11 .............................................
South Strand Ambassadors • 8 a.m.
Apr 12 .............................................
Behind the Scenes
Horry County Historical Society
4:30-7 p.m.
Apr 14 .............................................
gsSCENE Kickin’ it for Charity
Kickball Tournament
10 a.m.-6 p.m. • gsSCENE.com
Apr 16 .............................................
Trio Dinner • 6:30 p.m.
TrioDinner.org
Apr 17 .............................................
Finance Review Committee • 2 p.m.
Board of Directors • 3:30 p.m.
Apr 18 .............................................
Hospitality Day at the Statehouse
11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. • MBHospitality.org
Apr 19 .............................................
Victory Tavern • 5-7 p.m.
Apr 24 .............................................
Chamber Access • 3 p.m.
ChamberAcademy.com
Apr 25 .............................................
Apr 26 .............................................
Massage Envy Spa • 5-7 p.m.
Apr 27 .............................................
Legislative Policy Council • 9 a.m.
KITCHEN TUNE-UP’S
TOP HONOR
Goes to a Myrtle Beach Franchise
RUSS & PAT WIDMER
Kitchen Tune-Up has awarded Russ and Pat Widmer, franchise owners, with its top honor “Franny of the Year” award.
The Franny Award was given at the annual convention in Nashville, Tenn. It is awarded to the top overall franchise in the
system according to performance in several categories. Russ and Pat Widmer have always shown themselves to be among
the strongest franchises. They provide great customer service, do exceptional work, and help grow the system. They have
been remodeling kitchens and baths for clients since 2002 in Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas.
[email protected]
The Widmer’s can be reached for free estimates and consultations
at (843) 839-0517.
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 March
32 Years
Manpower
30 Years
Waterway Hills Golf Club
29 Years
Ocean Creek Resort
28 Years
Covenant Towers
27 Years
Law Offices of N. David DuRant
& Associates, PA
26 Years
The Carolina Opry
Flamingo Grill
25 Years
AAA Vacations
24 Years
Jeffcoat Law Firm, LLC
Pawleys Plantation Golf &
Country Club
22 Years
First Citizens Bank - Myrtle Beach
LITUS* Properties
Schooner II Beach & Racquet Club
21 Years
IMPACT Ministries
Pirates Voyage - Fun, Feast &
Adventure!
19 Years
Mercy Care
18 Years
Grand Strand Nissan, Inc.
17 Years
Classic Swing Golf School, Inc.
Grand Strand Optimist Club
Legends In Concert
16 Years
IHT/Grand Strand, Inc.
Info Quest, Inc.
15 Years
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.
- Murrells Inlet
14 Years
American Hospitality Academy
BB&T - 76th Ave.
Surfwater Promotions
Drake H. Tilley, Sr.
13 Years
Croissants Bistro & Bakery
Great American Steak & Buffet Co.
InterDyn-Artis
Murrells Inlet 2020, Inc.
12 Years
Conway National Bank Murrells Inlet
First Church of Christ, Scientist
The Printing Port - NMB
Sparks Toyota
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
10 Years
Atlantic Heating & Cooling
First Federal - Murrells Inlet
9 Years
Carolina Center for Cosmetic &
Restorative Dentistry
Strand Storage Center - Little River
United Chiropractic
8 Years
Classic Home Building & Design, Inc.
Thomas J. Rogers, Sr.
7 Years
Creative Consultants Group, Inc.
Inlet Affairs Banquet & Catering
Jafra Cosmetics - Vicki Jacobs
Tilghman Insurance of Myrtle Beach
Waccamaw Animal Rescue Mission
5 Years
Caribbean Resort Condominiums
Collectible Gi Store Nostalgia City & Museum
Emerald Lakes
IMAX 3D Theatre at Broadway
at the Beach
Long Bay Resort Condominiums
Ocean Reef Resort Condominiums
4 Years
D.R. Horton
Extra Holidays by Wyndham
Plantation Storage at Carolina Forest
Seaboard Signs & Engraving
Turner, Padget, Graham & Laney, PA
Waccamaw Bank - Conway
Waterbridge
3 Years
Econo Cleaning
Inlet Dental Center, Inc.
2 Years
BRAVO! Event & Party Rentals
Century 21 Thomas Beach Vacations
Compassionate Care Hospice of
South Carolina
Flowers in the Forest, LLC
The Grand 14 Cinemas
Horry Georgetown Home
Builders Association
Tony McAfee State Farm Insurance
1 Year
Abraham’s Gyros
Beach People Weddings
Canteen
Carolina Backwoods
Carolina Video Group
Charleston Cafe
Coastal Studios
Corder Properties, Inc.
Cravinley’s Buffet in a Box
Diamond Property Services
Gershons New York Deli
Indexx, Inc.
1 Year, Continued
Nakato Japanese Restaurant
Nannie’s Homemade Ice Cream
Oasis Trading Post
The Palmetto Studios Arts Alliance
Party Plus, Inc.
Rolling Thunder, Inc. SC 3
Seafood World
Tech Service of Myrtle Beach
Tervis
The UPS Store #6228
Woodmen of the World
Meet your ambassadors
Jenafor Braley
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 Jenafor Braley, an ambassador with the chamber for eight years, to find out why she enjoys
being an ambassador.
Q. What prompted you to volunteer as a chamber ambassador?
My daughter advised me to do this when I moved here in 2004. She said
that this would be the best way to meet people, especially as a newcomer,
and she said that everyone at the chamber is so nice and helpful. She is right.
Q. What do you like most about being a chamber ambassador?
I like all the meetings with fellow ambassadors and members, where I have
so many opportunities to make friends and promote my business.
Q. How has the investment of time as a chamber ambassador
advanced your career or business?
I have the opportunity to meet more people as an ambassador, thereby
giving me more time to advance my business. The end result is an increase
in my business.
Q. What is your best advice for making the most of chamber
membership?
To make the most of chamber membership, one needs to participate in as
many events as possible, also to meet people and give them your business
card.
Q. Give us your 30 second elevator speech about your business.
SendOutCards is an online greeting card and giing business, where you
would choose from over 16,000 selections, or create your card with your
uploaded pictures. Our company prints it, places it in an envelope, stamps it
and mails it via United States Postal Service within 24 hours or on a different
date, if you designate it.
Jenafor Braley
SendOutCards
Distributor
How long have you been
an ambassador? 8 years
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].
k9Cabana Dog Resort & Spa
3949 Dick Pond Rd.
(843) 560-9705
k9cabana.com
SC Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy
3650 Claypond Rd.
(843) 742-5231
teenpregnancysc.org
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
USPS 124-490
New Member Referral Program
Refer a business and save money off
membership investment!
How would you like to save some
money on your 2012-2013 renewal
investment? Myrtle Beach Area Chamber
of Commerce has created a New Member
Referral Program that can put $25 in
your piggy bank for helping us grow
our membership. A growing membership
strengthens your chamber and our
business community. Refer a nonmember
business, and when they join, we’ll
take $25 off your renewal invoice
for 2012-2013. You can refer as
many businesses as you like! To learn
more or to submit a referral, go to
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click
on the New Member Referral Program
link.
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 705 March 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

Similar documents

myrtle beach - South Carolina Parks

2014 Q2 Newsletter (copy 01) - Myrtle Beach Regional Economic

You`re invited to the 3nd annual Weenie Roast

BROCHURE-ACQUALINA MIAMI

True Love Chair Data Sheet

Horry County Receives Work Ready Certification

Mrs. House and Mrs. Huba`s STEM Challenge Day

Help Support Our Cause For Paws!

Weenie Roast - Cape Fear Sail and Power Squadron

Palm Beach - Blue Ocean Apartment