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Grand

670 strander Issue April 2009

What’s inside

T h e O f f i c i a l N e w s l e tt e r o f t h e M y r t l e B e a c h A r e a C h a mb e r o f C o mm e r c e

Five

Chamber

MBACC awarded top accreditation by U.S. Chamber of Commerce The United States Chamber of Commerce has awarded the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce its five-star accreditation for sound policies, effective organizational procedures and positive impact on the community. Most recently, 17 chambers were accredited, with only six receiving the prestigious fivestar ranking. Local chambers are accredited three stars, four stars or five stars. “As board chairman, I’m just as proud as I can be that the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber was not only accredited on the first attempt but also received top honors,” said Brant Branham. “The application process took four months, and the submittal

was so comprehensive that it required multiple binders to contain it. I commend the staff for all their hard work, not just for the application but each and every day, which earned them this distinction.”

Know Your Community Gangs, crime prevention ... do you know your community?

Of the 6,936 chambers in the United States, 260 (less than 4 percent) of those are accredited. Of those accredited, only 49 (19 percent) have earned the fivestar ranking. In South Carolina, 10 state and local chambers are accredited, with four of those earning five stars. The determination is made by the accrediting board, a committee of U.S. Chamber board members.

Special Section

Five Stars, See Page 5

Visitation Outlook Research findings from travel planning study.

No MBACC dues hike for FY 2009-2010 During these tough economic times, everyone is looking for a way to save a buck or two. It’s all about pinching a penny and stretching a dollar.

With this in mind, your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce is always looking for ways to help our members and local businesses through these tough economic times. Even during this challenging recession, MBACC board of directors is confident that the chamber has built a strong foundation that allows the organization to continue providing cost-effective programs and services. And with this commitment, the board has declared that MBACC membership dues remain at the current level for the upcoming fiscal year 2009-2010. “The current level of membership dues allows us to accomplish our goals without diminishing member benefits and quality

performance in any way,” noted Brant Branham, chairman of the MBACC board of directors. “During these tough economic times, I am pleased to see the spirited can-do attitude of the chamber’s members and staff remains strong.” For more than 70 years, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has been at the heart of the Grand Strand’s economic development. The chamber has record membership, major legislative accomplishments, and an outstanding level of service to the business community. “The chamber’s history of accomplishments is due to the interest and participation of its members,” Branham said.

No Dues Hike, See Page 15 MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Incredible Customer Service ICE Awards applaud outstanding customer service.

Business Bulletin Read about new hires, accomplishments and more.

Board of Directors Chairman of the Board Brant Branham E. F. Hucks & Associates, Inc. Immediate Past Chairman Steve Chapman Island Vista Advertising/Publicity Committee Chair Ross Martin Coral Beach Resort Vice Chairs Woody Crosby Jordan Properties Phil Vassar Captain’s Quarters Resort and Hotel Blue

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Business Ethics & Standards Committee Chair Frans Mustert Oceana Resorts Vice Chairs Debbie Harwell Adobe Palm Communications Phil Vassar Captain’s Quarters Resort and Hotel Blue Convention Bureau Committee Chair Bob Barenberg Kingston Plantation Vice Chair Charlie Bradshaw Alabama Theatre Finance Review Committee Chair/Treasurer Myers Rollins Waccamaw Regional Transportation Authority Vice Chair David DuRant Prestwick Country Club Fulfillment Committee Chair Chris Shroff Shroff Properties Vice Chairs Jason Anderson Anderson Properties Nate Anderson Divine Dining Group Frans Mustert Oceana Resorts Legislative Policy Council Chair Franklin Daniels Nexsen Pruet, LLC Vice Chair Buzz Freeman Conway National Bank Membership Committee Chair Tony Cox Burroughs & Chapin Co., Inc. Vice Chairs Debbie Harwell Adobe Palm Communications Berkley White Classic Homes North Strand Council Chair Rick Elliott Elliott Realty Small Business Council Chair Steve Kahn FSA-Full Steam Ahead, Inc. Vice Chair Wayne Morris The Printing Port South Strand Council Chair Elaine Carter Wendy’s/Palmetto Restaurant Group Technology-Based Marketing Committee Chair Ryan Swaim Dunes Realty Vacation Rentals Vice Chair Will McIntosh Intellistrand

Young Professionals Council Chair Sara Boling CENTURY 21 Boling & Associates, Inc.

Grand What’s Online Myr tleBeachAreaChamber.com

strander

Grand Strander Online

For quick access to all of the great features mentioned below, just go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click on Grand Strander at the top of the page.

Chamber Events

Education Programs

4 1/2 Questions “4 1/2 Questions” asks, “Why become an ambassador?” This month we checked in with Rita Gray with the Cooper House Event Center. Read the Grand Strander Online and find out why Gray enjoys being an ambassador. 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 April, 138 members will be celebrating their chamber anniversaries. Read the Grand Strander Online and discover which businesses have been chamber members for 29 years. Brochure racks and Business Card Displays Thousands of chamber members and visitors stop by the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Oak Street and South Strand Welcome Centers looking for information on products and services offered in the area. Market your business through the brochure racks and business card displays located in the Welcome Centers. It’s a free benefit of chamber membership. Due to limited storage space and brochure rack size,

Marketing Strategies

members are encouraged to submit brochures that are 4” in width and 9” in height. By displaying literature at this recommended size, your chamber will be able to distribute more member brochures and better meet our visitors’ vacation planning needs. Ribbon cuttings

All Year Landscaping, along with two other businesses, recently celebrated ribbon-cutting ceremonies. Check out the photos in the Grand Strander Online. Grand Strand Living hot off the press The chamber’s updated Grand Strand Living® is a 112-page guide that contains information on real estate, health care, arts and culture, local government, education and much more. A benefit of your chamber membership includes two listings in Grand Strand Living, an alphabetical listing in the Membership Directory, and a category/service listing

Member Resources

Government Relations

in the Business Guide. Published both in print (35,000 copies) and online at GrandStrandLiving.com, the guide is not only an indispensable resource for anyone planning to relocate, but Grand Strand Living is often requested by local residents who are looking for a trusted chamber member for products and services. Order your copy at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com/member/ member_guide_request.html. Test Your knowledge Test your knowledge of chamber benefits and win a free membership list ($100 value). Read this issue of the Grand Strander, discover the answer to the question below (either in this hard copy or the online newsletter) and then go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and enter your response. While the rules state one entry per person, it is unlimited entries per business. So pass the newsletter on to your employees. Test your knowledge ... This April 20 event spotlights food, food and more food. Name the event. Go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and enter by April 30 to win a free membership list ($100 value) Winner will be notified May 5. Congratulations to February’s winner, Brian Stefan with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, who won two free tickets to the ICE Awards.

Grand

strander

Discover more networking events at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com April 28 3 p.m.

CHamber Access Your All Access Pass to the Chamber

MBACC Boardroom, 1200 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach

Free, value-added benefit of chamber membership Register at ChamberAcademy.com Registration Deadline: April 27 Questions? Call (843) 916-7232

April 29 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Business Before Hours

Business Before Hours at Cinzia The Spa at North Beach Plantation 719 N. Beach Blvd., North Myrtle Beach

Enjoy a cup of coffee as you network with fellow chamber members during Business Before Hours. It’s a great way to rise and help your business shine. Free, value-added benefit of chamber membership Register at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com Registration Deadline: May 12 Questions? Call (843) 916-7250

May 28 4:15-7 p.m.

Business After Hours

Premier Resorts@Barefoot Resort

2200 Premier Resorts Blvd., North Myrtle Beach

Business AFter Hours

Myrtle Beach Pelicans

BB&T Coastal Field, 1251 21st Ave. N., Myrtle Beach

Take me out to the ball game! Grab your mitt and head to BB&T Coastal Field for an evening of baseball, beverages, game food, and of course, plenty of networking. Sit under the palm trees with your feet up in lounge chairs in the Pelicans Beach section. Along with enjoying Business After Hours from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., watch the Myrtle Beach Pelicans take on the Lynchburg Hillcats starting at 7:05 p.m. It’s also Star Trek night at the game featuring a costume contest – the “best dressed” prizes are movie passes to see the new Star Trek movie this summer.

Overlooking the beautiful Intracoastal Waterway, Premier Resorts@ Barefoot Resort is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a relaxing Business After Hours. As always, there will be plenty of networking, refreshments and door prizes.

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Are you a new member of the chamber? Are you new at your company? Or perhaps you are a longstanding member that needs an update on all your benefits. Then make plans to attend the next Chamber Access at your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. It’s a great way to break the ice within the first year of your chamber membership. You’ll learn first-hand the benefits that your chamber membership brings – at every stage of your business’ growth. Learn how to take advantage of your membership through Chamber Access – Your All Access Pass to the Chamber.

May 14 7:30-9 a.m.

Apri l- M ay Events

Free, value-added benefit of chamber membership Register at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com Registration Deadline: May 24 Questions? Call (843) 916-7250

Free, value-added benefit of chamber membership Register at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com Registration Deadline: April 27 Questions? Call (843) 916-7250

PR Hotspot

Grand

strander

Myrtle Beach area receives accolades

by Kimberly Miles, public relations manager

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

The new year starts and the accolades keep pouring in. Congratulations on the following Myrtle Beach area accolades in January and February. THE GREAT TOWNS OF AMERICA (2009) In 2009, authors David and Joan Vokac included Myrtle Beach in their book that highlights the top 100 Great Towns of America. In fact, Myrtle Beach is the only locale in the state of South Carolina to be included in the book. TRIPADVISOR.COM “2009 Top Aquariums” (2009) TripAdvisor.com travel enthusiasts named Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach to the site’s Top Aquariums list, ranking the aquarium in the top five. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GOLF COURSE OWNERS Grande Dunes Resort Club – “2009 National Golf Course of the Year” Presented annually by the National Golf Course Owners Association, Grande Dunes Resort Club is the second Myrtle Beach area course to receive the national honor. SOUTHERN LIVING “Favorite Beach” (2009) “Favorite Family Destination” (2009) “Favorite Weekend Getaway” (2009) The Myrtle Beach area was again named a “Favorite Beach” and a “Favorite Destination for Family Vacations” in the January 2009 issue of Southern Living. The Grand Strand has topped the magazine’s best beaches list every year since 1995, when the Readers’ Choice Awards were first instituted.

TRAVEL + LEISURE “2009 Top 500 World’s Best Hotels” Travel and Leisure editors named the Myrtle Beach Marriot Resort and Spa at Grande Dunes to their 2009 rankings of the Top 500 World’s Best Hotels. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF RV PARKS AND CAMPGROUNDS (ARVC) “National RV Park of the Year: Oceanlakes Family Campground” (2008-2009) AOL.COM “Top Five Domestic Travel Destinations in the United States” D.K. SHIFFLET & ASSOCIATES “Top 10 Value City for Couples”

Favorite Quote “On this afternoon, pristine beaches glisten in the sun, a fisherman snoozes behind his rod stuck in the sand, and youngsters work on their moated castle. It is a Norman Rockwell portrayal of The American Summer Vacation, long ago when life moved at a gentler pace. And yet this too is part of the fabulous Grand Strand.” - Pam Hobbs, Good Times Magazine (Canada) article “The Beach That Goes On and On: South Carolinas Myrtle Beach is a perfect nesting ground for Canadian snowbirds” January 2009 Print and Online Publicity Values January 2009 39

Newspaper Articles

Nondaily Newspaper Articles

GOLF TIPS “Close to Home: Top Destinations You can Visit by Car”

Consumer Magazine Articles

Trade Magazine Articles

241

Web Articles

TRAVELOCITY “Top Eight Value Destinations for Spring Break”

82,087,026

Total Circulation

$2,752,625

Publicity Value

COURIER-POST “8 Great Escapes for Under $1,500” Year-to-Date Ad Value for Myrtle Beach Travel News $6,341,819 What would you like to learn or see in a future PR Hotspot? Want to be involved in this area’s PR efforts? Have a PR related question? You can reach Kimberly Miles at (843) 916-7218 or Kimberly.Miles@ VisitMyrtleBeach.com.

February 2009 42

Newspaper Articles

Nondaily Newspaper Articles

Consumer Magazine Articles

Trade Magazine Articles

208

Web Articles

166,311,159

Total Circulation

$3,589,194

Publicity Value

Grand

Festival Vendor

strander

applications online

Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications from arts/crafts, food and business vendors for its 58th annual Sun Fun Festival June 5-6 and 4th annual Beach, Boogie & BBQ Festival Sept. 4-5. Both events will take place at Grand Park at Market Common (located on the former Air Force Base).

Last year, more than 35,000 people attended the Sun Fun Festival and more than 45,000 attended the Beach, Boogie & BBQ Festival. Don’t miss this great opportunity to get in front of all these potential customers. Applications for food vendors, business vendors and merchandise vendors for both these events can be found at SunFunFestival.com under Business & Vendor Info. Deadline is April 15. Sun Fun Festival sponsorships available Would you like to sponsor an event scheduled during the 58th Annual Sun Fun Festival? Would you like to sponsor the Summer Long Concert Series? If interested in a sponsorship package, e-mail Julie Sluss, festivals & special events manager, at [emailprotected] or fax to (843) 916-7284.

Five Stars

Continued From Cover “Accreditation recognizes chambers for their high standards of practice, full accountability to members and steadfast commitment to community,” said Thomas Donahue, president and CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “We applaud these organizations for advancing these principles of free enterprise.” Accreditation is the only national program that recognizes chambers for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement. To receive accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, demonstrating competency in nine core areas: governance, finance, human resources, government affairs, program development, communications, technology, facilities and benchmarking.

February 2009

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

The festivals feature live entertainment, games and rides for the kids. Sun Fun includes celebrity meet and greets, a National Jet Ski Racing Championship and a Sun Fun Beach Run 5K. Beach, Boogie & BBQ boasts the Wheelz at the Beach car show and serves up award-winning barbecue.

Top Five States for Relocation Inquiries 1.

New York

Pennsylvania

North Carolina

New Jersey

Ohio

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation, representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

Grand

c hambe r Academy

strander

Classes for the Chamber Academy are held in the boardroom (unless otherwise noted) at the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, 1200 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach. Register at ChamberAcademy.com. Payment due at time of registration. No refunds or rescheduling. To learn more, contact Blakely Jenkins, education and small business programs manager, [emailprotected] or (843) 916-7232. Discover more educational opportunities by signing up for the Education Updates e-newsletter at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Sign up for eNews.

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

04.07

Series

Topic

Business Series

U.S. Postal Service Rate Change

Presented by U.S. Postal Service

Date/time

Cost

April 7 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Free for members and nonmembers

Description: This presentation will provide you with the most up-to-date information on: May 11, 2009, Price Change for Mailing Services ~ Move Update – update on charges for noncompliance and general overview ~ Intelligent Mail Barcodes – overview and feedback session ~ Flat-Size Mail Address Standard Changes (effective March 29, 2009). As part of the Intelligent Mail Barcode presentation, feedback will be sought on your preparedness to implement the Intelligent Mail Barcode (Basic or Full Service option) and whether you have access to the various electronic means of submitting postage statements and documentation.

04.09

Series

Topic

Presented by

Date/time

Cost

Business Series

Recession Marketing

Mona McGraw of NuRelm Inc.

April 9 9-11 a.m.

Free for members $40 for nonmembers

04/08

Description: This session will discuss effective low-cost marketing strategies that motivate people to buy products and services in a down economy. The class covers general marketing; it does not focus solely on Internet marketing strategies. Learn how to build a comprehensive marketing plan that will help your businesses survive and thrive in the current recession. During this economic downturn, Recession Marketing has been a hit across the Eastern United States.

04.28

Series Leadership Series

Topic

Presented by

Date/time

Cost

Maximize Your Leadership Opportunities

Eileen Soisson from The Meeting Institute

April 28 9-11 a.m.

$10 for members $40 for nonmembers

04/27

Description: This interactive session will define leadership through current day leader examples, the phases of leadership and group activity. Seven winning traits of leaders are being a producer, mentor, innovator, team player, motivator, servant and go-getter. Participants will do a self analysis test to see where they currently rate. Check out this session to see how you can maximize your own leadership opportunities within your organization and/or business.

Chamber Academy announces new series ’Know Your Community’ by Blakely Jenkins, education and small business programs manager Earlier this year, Officer Sean Fay, Myrtle Beach Police Department Crime Prevention Unit, came and spoke to the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Council on preventing crime in your business. The session was so informative and the feedback so positive, the chamber decided to see if there were other topics that could be presented to our entire membership.

Since then the “Know Your Community” series was born. Through this series, the chamber partnered with the Myrtle Beach Police Department to bring our members topics of interest that would better let them know their community. The first series was held March 19, “Homelessness in Myrtle Beach.” Before it was even publicized the class began to fill. Topics such as where do the homeless live, where do they get their money and how you can help were covered in this two-hour session.

Other issues the series will cover are “Gangs in Myrtle Beach,” “Crime and Prevention,” and “How to Protect Yourself.” We encourage you to let us know of any topics you would like to see presented. Contact Blakely Jenkins, education and small business programs manager, at [emailprotected] with any suggestions. Visit ChamberAcademy.com for dates and listings of upcoming sessions.

Grand

strander

Growing air service

F rom My Desk

essential to Grand Strand’s future

The Grand Strand has always been a drive-to market.More than 90 percent of our visitors arrive here by driving their personal vehicle.But 14 percent of travelers say they will not drive any longer than eight hours for a five to seven day vacation.More notable is this finding:22 percent say they will not drive any longer than six hours for a three to four day getaway.By growing air service into our destination, we can effectively penetrate new markets, ultimately attracting more first-time visitors. Increased air service also provides an opportunity to attract more groups, meetings and conventions. The lack of affordable, convenient air service is our biggest impediment to growing this segment of business. The Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau closely tracks the reasons why groups choose not to visit our destination, and the most common reason, given 62 percent of the time, is inadequate air service. A side benefit of increased air service is increased competition, which can lead to lower fares. By adding more flights and more origin markets, airline routes become increasingly competitive. Airlines respond by cutting fares and increasing promotion. For example, we have consistently observed when

startups like Hooters Air or Myrtle Beach Direct Air enter a market, the fares charged by existing carriers fall quickly. Beyond tourists, increased air service will benefit local businesses needing convenient flights to other destinations, or seeking to bring their employees and clients here. Too often, we hear local businesses comment how they choose to use other regional airports due to price or availability. By expanding air service into the Grand Strand, we can greatly increase the number of departures out of our local airport. How do we grow air service into the Myrtle Beach area? First, we must have the necessary infrastructure. We fully support the current expansion plan underway at Myrtle Beach International Airport, a sensible approach that will not require an increase in the fees charged to airlines. While the funding is not finalized, we believe this expansion plan is important and necessary. Marketing air service is equally important. While our marketing budget in 2009 has declined, we continue to dedicate as much as we can afford to promote the destination in markets where we have current or emerging direct air service. We also benefit from our marketing partnership with Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday. During the past two years, we have made several joint trips to meet with airlines serving our community, as well as other airlines not currently serving our community. These efforts have paid off in 2009, with a new airline and new routes being added.

2009 is a challenging year for each of us. Growing air service has never been easy, and it won’t get any easier this year. But we recognize this is a high priority for Grand Strand businesses, so it remains a high priority for the chamber. If you have ideas on how we can grow our air service, feel free to contact us. And if you are interested in serving on our Air Service Task Force, a joint team effort between the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday, please join us. Together, we can make a difference.

Brad Dean President & CEO

Airport Arrivals

Arrivals

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

766,268

781,088

716,484

839,450

782,021

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

In recent years, we have made increased air service a top priority in both our marketing plan and legislative efforts. We believe growing air service is essential to our future, as the Grand Strand is poised to be a national tourist destination. But the growth of air service is far more than a short-term strategy to boost tourism.

Grand

strander

Leadership that stretches beyond the mold LGS now in its 30th year

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Have you ever been a part of something greater than the individuals involved? Was it meaningful? Did you stay bonded with those sharing your experience even after it ended? While a lot of people will answer “yes” and recall a birth of a child or another personal event, a growing number of local residents reminiscence about their time spent in Leadership Grand Strand. “Leadership Grand Strand is absolutely the best experience for anyone who is interested in learning more about the Grand Strand or becoming more involved as a volunteer,” said Debbie Conner, Ph.D., who graduated from Class XXI and is associate vice president of university relations at Coastal Carolina University. “The memories and the friendships made during the program are unforgettable.” “Leadership Grand Strand takes 30 class members through a life-changing experience impacting them on a professional and personal level,” said Class XXV graduate Diana Greene, IOM, executive director of Leadership Grand Strand and executive vice president of membership programs & services. “LGS graduates walk away with a comprehensive knowledge of the Myrtle Beach area and a whole new group of friends.” With an alumni roster of more than 800 individuals, including Georgetown and Horry counties solicitor J. Gregory Hembree (Class XVI), and Mary Jeffcoat, owner of Long Bay Computer Services, previous

member of the Myrtle Beach City Council (1983-1991) and a graduate of LGS Class I, this program has proven to be an asset to the community and society. “If you look at our impressive list of graduates, you will find most of them have taken on leadership roles in the community or have risen to the top in their careers. Either way, they are having a positive impact within the community,” noted Class XXI graduate Shannon Camp, chairwoman of the LGS board of regents, and systems and information analyst with The Jackson Companies. Are you up for the challenge? Leadership Grand Strand is now accepting applications for its 30th class year. Commitment to participating in LGS centers on involvement. Those who choose to apply should realize the significant time commitment involved. Participation involves a mandatory orientation in August, an overnight retreat in September, one full-day (8 hours) session per month from October to May, and 100 hours of community service projects. Applicants must be able to fulfill program attendance requirements in order to graduate. The selection committee seeks diversity in the makeup of the LGS class in regard to age, ethnicity, gender, socio-economic factors and business. Candidates should exhibit an interest in civic involvement and have a history of voluntary leadership.

LGS Class XXIX learns the history of Brookgreen Gardens during one of its monthly excursions. LGS application online Applications for the 2009-2010 Leadership Grand Strand program are available online at LeadershipGrandStrand.com. Tuition is $890 with two $445 scholarships available. Application deadline is June 30. For more information, visit LeadershipGrandStrand.com or contact Greene at [emailprotected] or (843) 916-7222. Leadership Grand Strand is sponsored by the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.

Grand

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Takin g Care of Business

Programs and services to help small businesses grow and succeed. Page Compliments of DSL Marketing.

Web site R.I.P. Knowing when it’s time to redesign that old Web site As I’ve always written, a Web site is the foundation of any lasting online presence, so I applaud those of you who currently have Web sites. But like every marketing effort, there comes a time for change, and that time is when your audience and market changes.

As for functionality, Web surfers expect more and more out of Web products, especially Web sites. Videos are all the craze, flash design, the ability to purchase (e-commerce), photo galleries, forums, blogs and other Web 2.0 elements … these are just the beginning. Many of these were recently “invented” and implemented, and all of them are continually improved upon. Your Web site should upgrade with the times. As for compatibility, put it this way: All the major Internet browsers come out with quarterly updates and yearly upgrades. Each new element and version of a browser could negatively affect the way your Web site renders or formats in that browser. This doesn’t even take into account the fact that new browsers (enter Chrome) are created that your original Web site didn’t even take into account. And browsers aren’t the only products that have standards. Don’t forget about the fact that the search engines have quality guidelines that continually change … making your Web site’s level of optimization relative to those changes.

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Despite the fact that your Web site had all the bells and whistles for a mid-nineties design – like an intro, animated gifs, and a classy soundtrack set on repeat … on every page – those same bells and whistles might not be wowing the crowds like they used to. In fact, they might be leaving your Web site in droves; just check your bounce rate. (Don’t know what this is? Read below.)

First of all, understand that redesign does not simply mean making your Web site look better. Aesthetic value is relative, so the look of your Web site shouldn’t be the only deciding factor when considering a redesign. Rather, the two most important elements to consider are functionality and compatibility. Functionality is a measure of what your users expect, and compatibility is the percentage of likelihood that your Web site will format correctly.

The list goes on. Bottom line, if your Web site is working for your company (capturing leads and creating sales) and you know for a fact that your Web site formats just fine in all the browsers, the code structure is in line with search engine quality guidelines, and you’ve periodically added those functional elements that your audience loves and expects … then don’t redesign it. But that’s a tall order.

R.I.P., See Page 10

Jan 08

Feb 08

Mar 08

Apr 08

May 08

Jun 08

Jul 08

Aug 08

Sep 08

Oct 08

Nov 08

Dec 08

$85,505,443

$97,356,306

$101,819,490

$122,014,295

$107,245,704

$158,176,300

$152,022,635

$124,347,100

$111,954,396

$97,503,863

$90,491,183

$93,967,746

For more information regarding additional research conducted by the chamber, contact Wendy Bernstein at [emailprotected] Source: S.C. Departments of PRT and Revenue,

VisitMyrtleBeach.com

Percent of Referral Clicks vs. Total

Lodging

66.79%

69.29%

2009

Amusem*nts

16.99%

12.42%

Theaters

4.45%

4.07%

Dining

2.94%

3.59%

Shopping

1.54%

1.73%

Watersports

0.67%

1.05%

Weddings

0.53%

0.45%

Golf

1.76%

1.75%

Additional Services

0.13%

0.18%

Other

4.20%

5.47%

2008

Jan Feb

2009 269,285 283,597

FEBRUARY

January

FEBRUARY

2008 217,261 215,092

2009

2008 2009

January

2008

Change 23.95% 31.85%

2008 347,720 358,112

JAN FEB

2009 406,873 459,712

Rate 17.01% 28.37%

* YTD - January 1 - February 28

Occupancy Percent per Room Week*

33.47%

2008

2009

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

2007

34.01%

53.01%

64.18%

69.10%

60.85%

74.59%

2008

32.12%

49.96%

62.09%

60.00%

58.93%

72.96%

Jul

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

2007

82.94%

75.78%

62.40% 54.25%

39.86%

24.74%

2008

83.39%

73.73%

52.17%

39.88%

25.22%

55.87%

*Dr. Taylor Damonte, Director • Clay Brittain, Jr. Center for Resort Tourism • Coastal Carolina University [emailprotected] Source: Horry County Department of Airports

VisitMyrtleBeach.com

December Airport Arrivals

(Jan. 25, 2009 - March 7, 2009)

$52.99

$52.30

2008

2009

A rriva l s

36.07%

Average Daily Rate per room Week*

Do ll a r s

Pe rc e nt

(Jan. 25, 2009 - March 7, 2009)

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

2007

$55.95

$71.90

$83.94

$98.29

$116.61

$144.34

2008

$58.54

$73.02

$88.87

$95.87

$111.84 $145.72

Jul

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

2007

$162.96

$129.77

$93.15

$76.80

$68.82

$59.20

2008

$159.59

$125.09

$83.14

$77.98

$69.80

$59.92

Help us Help you Provide data to CCU

2007

2008

2007 Arrivals

2008

Change

46,552 39,023 -16.17%

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, [emailprotected].

April 2009

INSIDER

Source: For more information, contact: [emailprotected]

Convention & Visitors Bureau

Category Referrals

Advertiser Referrals

Unique User Sessions

Taking the show on the road

Convention & Visitors Bureau

INSIDER

Co-op Corner

The 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, e-mail blasts, magazines and newspaper inserts. Also, the chamber will provide online creative support if needed by participants. To learn more about these opportunities and to find the right fit for your marketing program, contact Lynne Boykin, Brandon Advertising and Public Relations, at (843) 916-2000 or [emailprotected]. For a complete list of co-ops, go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click on Marketing Strategies. Space is limited for each opportunity 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, members must contribute $1 per rented room night for lodging members or a 1 percent “marketing fee” or a nonparticipating advertising cost for activities and dining members. Group Co-op Going on Faith – June/July 2009 Going on Faith is published as a news and idea source for travel directors for religious groups. Editorial includes coverage of destinations, special events and sources of planning information. Circulation: 6,000 Ad Size: 3”x4.6875”

Material Deadline: 05/01/2009

Ad Cost: $320, six spots available

Interactive Co-op AAAJourneys.com – June 2009 AAA Journeys features articles on regional and world travel, area history, auto safety, highway and transportation news, and consumer issues. Added Value: Click-thru to Web site or splash page. Inclusion in a 1,000 word story. One photograph placed within story. 25,000 impressions per participant. Circulation: Connecticut, Southwestern Ohio, Eastern Kentucky, Kansas and West Virginia Ad Size: 125x350 pixels

Material Deadline: 05/01/2009

by Danna Lilly, CMP Myrtle Beach Area CVB director of sales

For group business, the Myrtle Beach area is one of those destinations that fit into the “Seeing is Truly Believing” philosophy. And with time restraints that so many group planners fall under, there’s not always time to take two or three days out of the office to research a destination. So, the group division of your CVB has been doing the next best thing ... taking the show on the road to planners. Between mid-January and mid-March, your Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau has hosted five events for groups of planners in Atlanta, Ga., Charlotte, N.C., and Washington, D.C. During each event, the CVB staff addressed each group, educated them on the value of Myrtle Beach and shared a fabulous destination video. When we hear the “Wow, I had no idea that Myrtle Beach had so much to offer,” then we know that we had made an impression. From there, it’s further conversation, follow up and more follow up – leading to the hopeful end result of bringing the planner to the Myrtle Beach area with a group of visitors Several CVB members have joined us for these successful events where we personally “touched” approximately 1,500 industry professionals. If you would like to learn how your business can help take the Myrtle Beach area show on the road, contact Danna Lilly, CMP, Myrtle Beach Area CVB director of sales, at Danna.Lilly@ VisitMyrtleBeach.com or (843) 916-7261.

Where in the world is the CVB? April 1-2

Affordable Meetings Mid-America

Chicago, IL

April 4-8

Travel South

Kissimmee, FL

April 16

Greater Washington Society of Association Executives

Washington, D.C.

April 21-23

National Association of Sports Commissions

Denver, CO

The CVB is busy this month welcoming eight groups with 901 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, please contact Pat Creed, membership programs manager and CVB member liaison, at [emailprotected] or (843) 916-7225. Printed by Inlet Printing Co. April 2009

VisitMyrtleBeach.com

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Hire Legal ... it’s the law After lengthy debate and much public pressure, the general assembly passed the South Carolina Illegal Immigration Reform Act last May and it was signed into law by Gov. Mark Sanford on June 4, 2008. This new set of laws, intended to curb the practice of employing illegal immigrants, impacts all private employers in South Carolina. These new requirements are in addition to, and not in place of, the existing federal requirements.

be able to legally employ workers in our state. The existing federal statutes, which require completion of the I-9 form, remain in effect and do not change. In addition to meeting the federal requirements, private employers in South Carolina can either: (A) Register to use the E-Verify work authorization program which enables an employer to verify work status of each new employee within five business days after hiring the employee. When using this system, employers are provisionally hiring each new employee until his/her work authorization has been verified, and must submit each new employee’s name and information for verification; or (B) Employ only workers who possess a valid S.C. drivers license or state-issued ID card or

What Makes an ambassador Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce ambassadors are volunteers who enjoy meeting new people and spending time with other professionals. Ambassadors act as the official goodwill greeters between the chamber and our current and prospective members. Their responsibilities include one-on-one visitations with chamber businesses, event networking and support of various community projects. Why become a chamber ambassador? As an ambassador, you will gain business exposure by being the first to meet chamber members and put your company’s name in the forefront. By volunteering at chamber events and attending the monthly ambassador

meetings, your business is kept current on what is going on within the chamber and community. As an added bonus, you and your company are eligible for monthly and yearly award recognition. Do you have what it takes? If you meet the criteria mentioned above and are interested in becoming a chamber ambassador, contact Pat Creed, membership programs manager, at (843) 916-7225 or [emailprotected].

are eligible to receive such. Exceptions are made for employees who have relocated from other states to South Carolina. Employers are encouraged to adopt the new procedures as soon as possible; larger businesses with 100+ employees must comply with these new requirements by July 2009; smaller employers have an additional 12 months to comply. For more information, contact the Employment Security Commission (SCES.org) or a labor law attorney for more information. While most businesses never intend to hire illegal employees, the penalties for doing so are far more strict and severe than in the past. It is imperative that you, as a business, seek to comply with these new statutes.

Ambassador of the Month Congratulations to David Powers with Ocean Breeze Awnings & More, who earned Ambassador of the Month for February. Powers is serving his first year as an ambassador.

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Beginning July 1, 2009, private employers doing business in South Carolina will be assigned a South Carolina employment license, authorizing the employer to employ individuals in South Carolina. The new law requires employers to comply with all requirements set forth by the new legislation, otherwise their employment license will be revoked and they will no longer

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Applause to Laurie Dobis with Innovative Hiring Technology (IHT)/Grand Strand Inc., who earned the second highest points for February. Dobis is serving her first year as an ambassador.

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Winners announced

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners for its third annual Incredible Customer Experience (ICE) Awards. Awards were presented during an elegant celebration at The Palace Theatre.

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for Incredible Customer Experience Awards

Amusem*nt/Entertainment Business: Myrtle Beach Pelicans Individual: Mary Williams, House of Blues Communications Business: WBTW News 13 Individual: Richard Green, Time Warner Cable (2008 winner) Dining Business: Chick-fil-A of Surfside Beach Individual: George Clark, Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort Financial Business: Atlantic Bank & Trust Individual: Kim Smith, Atlantic Bank & Trust Lodging Business: Springmaid Beach Resort Individual: Pam Reis, Crown Reef Resort & Conference Center

Nonprofit Business: Grand Strand Miracle League Individual: Bob Jewell, Brookgreen Gardens Professional Business: Discover Chiropractic (2007 and 2008 winners) Individual: Ian McClure, Atlantic Physical Therapy Real Estate Business: Century 21 Broadhurst and Associates Inc. Individual: Paige Bird, RE/MAX Ocean Forest Retail Business: EmbroidMe (2008 winner) Individual: Sallie Hinson, CVS Pharmacy, Store 3567 Services Business: FSA – Full Steam Ahead Inc. Fire and Water Restoration (2008 winner) Individual: Linda McDaniel, A&I Fire & Water Restoration

ESPN broadcaster and actor Mitch Laurance along with Ewa Mataya Laurance, reigning International and World Cup Trick Shot champion and holder of multiple World and U.S. Open 9-ball titles, served as emcees at this year’s ICE Awards.

The ICE Awards consist of 10 categories with an individual and business winner in each category, for a total of 20 winners. Each winner was presented with a 12-inch engraved crystal award. “We congratulate all the winners and nominees who help make the Myrtle Beach area a great place to live, work and play,” said Greg Everett, president, Myrtle Beach Funeral Home & Crematory, and president and publisher, Myrtle Beach Herald. “The ICE Awards are the Academy Awards of customer service. This is truly the Myrtle Beach event of the year.” Go to MyrtleBeachICEAwards.com to see more of the winners’ photos.

Atlantic Bank & Trust took home both the business and individual award at this year’s ICE Awards.

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Economic Indicators

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R esidential construction permits D EC E M B E R 20 0 8 Location

Single Family Units Single Family Units Cost Multi-Family Bldgs. Multi-Family Units Multi-Family Bldgs. Cost

Myrtle Beach Unincorporated 2 $237,813 0 0 $0

50 $7,139,463 0 0 $0

North Myrtle Beach 5 $1,305,110 1 20 $4,457,547

Surfside Beach 1 $266,003 0 0 $0

Georgetown County 10 $2,732,452 0 0 $0

R esidential construction permits D EC E M B E R 20 07 Location

42 $6,171,155 5 56 $3,777,999

135 $19,743,319 0 0 $0

North Myrtle Beach 13 $3,073,114 2 66 $14,709,905

Surfside Beach 1 $331,000 0 0 $0

Georgetown County 14 $3,603,396 0 0 $0

Sally Hinson with CVS Pharmacy walked away with the individual retail ICE Award.

The ICE Awards were brought to you by the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and the Hospitality Partnership. This magnificent event was made possible through the generous support of Coastal Engravers Inc., HTC, Inlet Affairs Banquet and Catering, Myrtle Beach Funeral Home & Crematory, Myrtle Beach Herald, WBTW News 13, WMBF News and WPDE NewsChannel 15.

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Single Family Units Single Family Units Cost Multi-Family Bldgs.. Multi-Family Units Multi-Family Bldgs. Cost

Myrtle Beach Unincorporated

A dditional E conomic I ndicators

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

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B u s i n ess Bulletin On the Web AvidCast Inc. announced the launch of two Myrtle Beach Area Chamber member Web sites, Always In Touch Massage, alwaysintouchmassage.com and Crystalite Café, crystalitedining.com.

working between both the Main and South Strand branches. Ketchem holds a South Carolina Real Estate License and is a South Carolina Insurance Producer, licensed in property, casualty, surety and marine.

Inside Tracks Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate announced that Marie Williams and Ronnie Williams have joined the Surfside Beach office.

Bob Peyton is the new general manager of SunCruz Myrtle Beach.

Pawleys Golf & Country Club has named Riley Kinlaw the new head golf professional. Kinlaw will manage the dayto-day operations of the resort’s pro shop and its Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, as well as plan all member and guest tournaments. In addition, he will be responsible for coordinating with the golf course superintendent to ensure top-notch course conditions, as well as motivating staff to maintain the high level of customer service that guests of Pawleys Plantation have come to expect. Stephanie Griffin and Jackie Ketchem have joined South Atlantic Bank’s growing staff. Griffin will serve as a teller

continuing education Sales associates from Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate recently attended Mortgage 101, a class sponsored by Coldwell Banker Mortgage. Sales associates attending and receiving certificates were: Cindy Senatore, Jan Buess, Gary Little and Dick Anthony, Surfside Beach office; and Erin Bishop, Fred Kane, Jackie Cooper and Chris Long, Carolina Forest office. Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate announced that the American Real Estate University has recognized Dick Anthony of The Dick and Vick Team (Surfside Beach office), and Michele Nelson and Donna Bunting (North Myrtle Beach office) as REO Specialists, a designation that requires an intensive

course of study and examination to complete. Less than one percent of all real estate licensees have earned this recognition. Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate announced that Jan Buess of the Surfside Beach office recently passed her South Carolina Broker’s examination. Prior to undertaking the broker’s examination, licensed associates must complete 150 hours of specialized real estate training and must have practiced a minimum of three years as a Realtor®. Gerrie Watson, CCIM, president of Myrtle Beach Commercial Real Estate Inc., was named a Certified Mediator from the National Association of REALTORS. Mediation lets the parties take control of the outcome of their dispute vs. letting a third party decide the outcome. Cheers AAF-Coastal Carolinas presented local advertising and marketing professional Milton Miles, vice president of marketing with The Sun News, with the Silver Medal Award at its annual ADDY Gala. The Silver Medal Award honors individuals for their

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outstanding contributions to advertising and who have been active in furthering the industry’s standards, creative excellence, and responsibility in areas of social concern. The 2008 Miss Myrtle Beach Pageant and Miss Myrtle Beach Teen Pageant was held in honor of William “Billy” Alford, vice president of A&I Fire and Water Restoration. Alford received the Miss Myrtle Beach Pageant Community Leadership and Achievement award and was recognized for his community service and continued dedication to Coastal Carolina University. In addition, Alford was recently honored for his outstanding leadership in transportation. Alford was lauded by Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer, Sen. Lindsey Graham, members of the Horry County Legislative Delegation and highway officials for his “Bridge to Nowhere” idea, which led to the eventual construction of the Conway Bypass and Carolina Bays Parkway. AvidCast was named Internet Marketing Firm of the Year by the Myrtle Beach Herald.

Century 21 Real Estate LLC recently recognized Century 21 Boling & Associates with the Double Centurion Office Award for production. The Double Centurion Award is given to Century 21 System offices that achieve or surpass a certain volume of sales production within a calendar year. Individual agents from Century 21 Boling & Associates also have been recognized for receiving awards. Traci Miles received the Centurion Producer Award for her Individual Sales Production. Other agents recognized for 2008 sales production as Top Producers were Danny Baxley, Gene Heidt, Glenn Hellofs, Wendy Hodges and Shaun Milligan. Hodges also received the Century 21 Quality Service Producer Award for her commitment to customer service and professional excellence. John Draughn (Surfside Beach office), Gary Roberts and Lewis Bowers (Briarcliffe office) of Coldwell Banker Commercial Chicora Real Estate have earned a place in the company’s Bronze Level Circle of Distinction based on their transaction revenue for 2008. The Circle

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of Distinction is an honor bestowed upon the top 10 percent of ranking producers among Coldwell Banker Commercial® professionals.

Final editing is underway on a series of eight vignettes for the U.S. Treasury Department recently shot on location by Encore Video Productions Inc. The clips will be used for the department’s intranet employee training, and four are being considered for release as public service announcements. Rick Coleman and Joey Coleman, owners of the Tabor City Jellystone Park CampResort, have been recognized with the Camp-Resort of the

No Dues Hike

Continued From Cover “We realize that renewing your chamber membership is not a philanthropic type thing,” added Tony Cox, chairman of MBACC’s membership committee. “There has to be a value proposition for our members. For their investment, member businesses should get something in return.” That return will continue to include networking events, educational seminars, advertising opportunities, call center referrals, welcome center brochure racks, Web site links, affinity programs, expos, festivals, pro-business legislation, and much more. Your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce remains committed as the leading voice of the Grand Strand business community.

Year award by the Jellystone Park franchise system. The award was presented at the annual meeting of the Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort group. The Camp-Resort also won the Carroll Award for receiving the highest inspection rates among all Jellystone Parks.

David Powers, Ocean Breeze Awnings & More, received the annual U.S. Chamber of Commerce Blue Ribbon Small Business Award. This was the third year in a row that Ocean Breeze Awnings & More has received this prestigious award. RE/MAX Carolinas has announced calendar year 2008 figures showing that

Murrells Inlet’s RE/MAX By The Sea Realtor Angie Shoemaker was the No. 2 Individual Producer in the state of South Carolina. This is the fifth consecutive year she has been in the top six: No. 6 in 2004, No. 2 in 2005, No. 2 in 2006 and No. 4 in 2007. South Atlantic Bank announced the naming of Mary Jo Rogers as “Banker of the Year,” by the readers of the Myrtle Beach Herald. Share Your News We are asking for your input on what articles and statistics you would like to see in the Grand Strander each month. E-mail your ideas to KoriHippe @VisitMyrtleBeach.com. Also

“The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber is working harder than ever to uphold its purpose to promote, protect and improve business throughout the Myrtle Beach area,” Cox said. “We appreciate our members support as we work together toward an optimistic new year.” Membership renewals start in May Membership invoices will be mailed to all members May 1 and are due upon receipt. All chamber dues and related expenses are tax deductible as a business expense. As an incentive to renew your membership in May, the chamber is offering: • Half-page ad in the 2010 edition of Grand Strand Living® – a relocation guide for newcomers and a primary business guide for residents (Winner will be responsible for ad creation and all applicable taxes.)

be sure to send in your company’s news for the monthly Business Bulletin. This section recognizes new employees, staff promotions, relocations and expansions, awards, class and convention attendance, new Web sites, and year-end accomplishments for top real estate producers/sales. Send updates (under 75 words) by the 5th of each month to [emailprotected], fax – (843) 626-0009. Due to limited space, the Business Bulletin does not include employee anniveraries, photos or nonprofit fundraising activities.

• Membership list on disk • Table at Business & Restaurant Expo - March 2010 • Two tickets to Annual Meeting – October 2009 • Two tickets to Legislative Luncheon – November 2009 Value Half-Page Grand Strand Living Ad Membership Disk Business & Restaurant Expo Table Two Annual Meeting Tickets Two Legislative Luncheon Tickets Grand Total

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Collins + Company Advertising/Public Relations received two top awards for “Best of Print” and “Best of Show” overall at the 2009 American Advertising Federation-Coastal Carolinas (AAFCC) Addy Awards competition. Collins + Company earned 12 Addy Awards overall, including six Silver Addys and four Gold Addys. Work done for clients Coastal Smile Center, Parsons Nursery, World Tour Golf Links and The Carolina Opry was awarded, while the “Take Chances” print

ad for Dr. Bob Swanson and Coastal Smile Center received “Best of Print” and “Best of Show.” The campaign was created and designed by Missy Rothrock, senior art director.

$2,735 100 145 90 70 $3,140

If you have questions about MBACC membership renewal, contact Pat Creed, membership programs manager, at [emailprotected] or (843) 916-7225.

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N e w M embe r s

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

A Touch of Class Bakery/Cafe, LLC Restaurant-Bakery Rennay Coleman 4006 Postal Way, Unit F Myrtle Beach, SC 29579 (843) 236-5556 (864) 787-9728 AddLogos, LLC Ads-Specialties Jim Mann 6001 S. Kings Hwy. Myrtle Beach, SC 29575 (704) 582-2762 (800) 482-4675 addlogos.com AdLav Indoor Advertising Advertising Dave Daniels 6510 Somerset Dr., Ste. 202 Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 (843) 222-0826 AdLavIndoor.com Carolina Film Group Video-Film Production Services Ralph McCloud 308-A 76th Ave. N. Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 (843) 449-4776 carolinafilmgroup.com Carolina Linen, LLC Linen Supply Service Jerry Nardone 620-A Sandy Ln. Surfside Beach, SC 29575 (843) 957-0814

Creative Internet Solutions Internet-Marketing J. Redmon PO Box 2563 Myrtle Beach, SC 29578 (843) 357-9962 Diamond Beachside A Taxi Taxicabs Raj Malik 1108 3rd Ave. S. Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 455-2999 Econo Cleaning Carpet-Rug/Upholstery Cleaner Charlie Ludlam 1684 Coventry Rd. Surfside Beach, SC 29575 (252) 256-3707 Holiday Sands at South Beach Vacation Rentals & Beach Homes Erik Marlowe 2501 S. Ocean Blvd. Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 448-4439 HolidaySandsSouth.com Inlet Dental Center, Inc. Dentists Dennis James 9356-C Hwy. 17 Bypass Murrells Inlet, SC 29576 (843) 215-0579

Lictchfield Plantation Country Inn Bed & Breakfast Greg Matcher Kings River Rd. Pawleys Island, SC 29585 (843) 237-9121 (800) 869-1410 litchfieldplantation.com

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Quiznos Sub #4862 Restaurant-Fast Casual Randy Long 2000 Coastal Grand Mall Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 839-6666 Quiznos.com

Myrtle Beach Republican Women Organizations/Clubs Johnnie Bellamy PO Box 54595 Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 (843) 272-6885

Quiznos Sub #9273 Restaurant-Fast Casual Randy Long 3735 Oleander Dr. Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 839-4782 Quiznos.com

Piedmont Companies, Inc. Developers Sandra Cashion 2667 E. Main St. Lincolnton, NC 28093 (704) 736-4333

Regan’s Irish Cottage, LLC Gift-Shops Theresa Regan 2834B Howard Ave. Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 839-0911

Quiznos Sub #4668 Restaurant-Fast Casual Randy Long 3290 Hwy. 17 S. Business Murrells Inlet, SC 29576 (843) 651-8563 Quiznos.com

Solzon Technology Jim Filosa 730 Main St., Ste. 353 North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 (843) 399-1746 solzon.com

Quiznos Sub #4861 Restaurant-Fast Casual Randy Long 10517 S. Ocean Hwy., Unit 1 Pawleys Island, SC 29585 (843) 979-4782 Quiznos.com

The Imperial Group International Real Estate-Company Deborah Caruso 4905-C Hwy. 17 Bypass Murrells Inlet, SC 29576 (843) 651-5440 theimperialgroupinternational.com

The Lowcountry Food Bank Nonprofit Kristen Kennedy 200 S. Broadway St. Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 747-8146 lowcountryfoodbank.org

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g s SC E N E

Upcoming gsSCENE Events

(Register at gsSCENE.com)

Presented by

Apr 1

8:30-10:30 a.m.

of Horry County was the winner, so they are the recipients of any revenue gsSCENE brings in during the kickball tournament.

Remember back in elementary school when the best part of the day was recess? And more times than not kickball was a staple of elementary school recesses. gsSCENE wants to bring back those fond memories with the Inaugural gsSCENE “Kickin’ it for Charity” Kickball Tournament, presented by Springmaid Beach Resort.

“Kickin’ it for Charity” will be held May 2 at The Ripken Experience. The tournament is open to only 16 teams, which can have a minimum of eight players or a maximum of 16 players on a roaster. Each team is guaranteed to play at least two games, and the tournament will be done in brackets with a championship game held at the end.

The idea of a kickball tournament was thought of after seeing the success of kickball leagues in other South Carolina communities. Rather than jumping right in by starting a league, gsSCENE thought a one-day tournament was the perfect way to introduce kickball to the young professionals on the Grand Strand. But the tournament isn’t just about playing the game; it’s also about raising money for a local charity. gsSCENE members were asked to submit essays explaining why their favorite charity should benefit from a gsSCENE fundraiser. The essays were then posted on gsSCENE.com and gsSCENE members were allowed one vote. United Way

But the fun doesn’t stop there! That evening gsSCENE will host an after-party at Froggy Bottoms at Broadway at the Beach. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Costs include open bar and food for two hours, live music and presentation of trophies for the top teams. Proceeds from the after-party, as well as food and beverage sales at the tournament, will go to United Way of Horry County.

Apr 15 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Spring Social Join gsSCENE at the waterfront Anchor Cafe, behind Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, for our spring networking event. May 6

5:30-7:30 p.m.

One Year Anniversary gsSCENE is turning one! And they’re taking it back to where it all began. Join gsSCENE at The Boathouse where we’ll celebrate our one year anniversary. We kicked off gsSCENE exactly one year ago right here on the water at The Boathouse. This event is open to the public.

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

by Blakely Jenkins, education and small business programs manager, gsSCENE liaison

Educational Breakfast “Public Speaking” with Lee Bollinger, Ph.D. Associate Professor Department of Communication Coastal Carolina University Location: 1200 N. Oak St., MBACC Boardroom

Thanks to our gsSCENE sponsors:

For more details on the tournament, registration, kickball rules and gsSCENE, visit gsSCENE.com.

Boling & Associates, Inc. 1717

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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. Your event can be as simple, informal, extravagant or ceremonious as you want it to be. It's your event and should reflect your company's values and personality.

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Ribbon-cutting announcements are included in the Grand Strander, which is mailed to our 2,400 plus members, and photos appear in the online edition of the popular newsletter. The chamber’s ambassadors attend ribbon-cutting ceremonies on behalf of the members. Having ambassadors at the ceremony provides an excellent networking and publicity opportunity. Kick off a grand opening of your business by contacting Pat Creed, membership programs manager, at [emailprotected] or (843) 916-7225. The chamber recently held ribbon-cutting ceremonies for the following members: All Year Landscape Supply 1769 Hwy. 544 Conway, SC 29526 (843) 234-9273 allyearlawnandmore.com

Solzon 730 Main St., Ste. 353 North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 (843) 399-1746 solzon.com

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremonies, See Page 19

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Ribbon-Cutting Ceremonies, Continued From Page 18

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HandPicked, Inc. 3324 Reed St., Ste. 300 Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 839-1321 behandpicked.com

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Firestone/Bridgestone, LLC 120 Loyola Dr. Myrtle Beach, SC 29588 (843) 650-1501 firestone.com Little River Medical Center, Inc. Mobile Children Dental Services Unit P.O. Box 547 Little River, SC 29566 (843) 663-1033 littlerivermedcenter.com

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremonies, SeePage 20

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Ribbon-Cutting Ceremonies, Continued From Page 19

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Regan's Irish Cottage, LLC 2834-B Howard Ave. Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 839-0911

T & M Home Improvement, Inc. 4011C Belle Terre Blvd. Myrtle Beach, SC 29579 (843) 236-2344 tmwindows.vpweb.com

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Ambassadors Ambassadors are a group of dedicated volunteers from various businesses throughout the Grand Strand community. Their mission is to 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 Rita Gray, an ambassador with the chamber for two years, to find out why she enjoys being an ambassador. To learn more about becoming a chamber ambassador, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click on Member Resources/Ambassador or contact Pat Creed, membership programs manager, at (843) 916-7225 or by e-mail at [emailprotected].

Rita Gray Cooper House Event Center Owner Ambassador for Two Years Q. What prompted you to volunteer as a chamber ambassador? A. To get involved in our community and get to know other business members. Q. What do you like most about being a chamber ambassador? A. It gives me an open door to make contacts. People welcome us to their business. Q. How has the investment of time as a chamber ambassador advanced your career or business? A. It keeps my face in front of the business community. It takes a long time to build an event center.

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

4 1/2 Questions With Rita Gray

Q. What is your best advice for making the most of chamber membership? A. Get involved. Don’t sit behind your doors and expect people to run to you. Q. Give us your 30 second elevator speech about your business. A. Cooper House Event Center “A Special Place for Special Events.”

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MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Congratulations to the following members celebrating Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce membership anniversaries in April. 29 Years 2001 Enterprises, Inc. Green’s Discount Beverages

17 Years Franklin G. Burroughs - Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum Kiddie Park

28 Years Mancill, Inc.

16 Years Chesapeake House Hawaiian Village Miniature Golf The Reserves Network

26 Years Coastal Workforce Center Crawford Sprinkler Co. Grand Strand Water & Sewer Authority 25 Years Beachcomber Vacations Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday 24 Years Lazelle’s Flower Shop 23 Years AAF - Coastal Carolinas Condo Lux Condominiums Ocean Forest Plaza 22 Years The Cherry Grove Pier Coastal Business Brokers Farm House Restaurant Kingfisher Inn 21 Years A Wedding To Remember (Hart Enterprises, Inc.) BB&T - Oak St. Palmetto Tour & Travel, A Receptive Operator Smith Shanafelt , LLC, CPAs 20 Years Enterprise Rent-A-Car - Hwy. 501 Holiday Inn West on the Waterway Myrtle Beach Indoor Shooting Range and Civil War Collection 18 Years ADT Security Services Long Bay Golf Club Native Sons Screenprinting & Embroidery Willbrook Plantation Golf Club

15 Years DSL Marketing Sunset Vacations 14 Years Carolina Roadhouse Med Plus South Strand Family Practice Myrtle Beach Community Church National Bank of SC - Oak St. Sherwin Williams - North Myrtle Beach Sherwin Williams - Murrells Inlet Sherwin Williams - Myrtle Beach SPM Resorts Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. - Hwy. 501 13 Years Certifax Appraisals Gulf Stream Cafe Horry Georgetown Home Builders Association Landry’s Seafood Restaurant Martino & Associates/ Chuck Martino & Associates Myrtle Beach Chrysler Jeep

9 Years Four Star Plumbing & Air Conditioning Georgetown Memorial Hospital Sleep Inn Conway Terminix Service U-Save Car & Truck Rental 8 Years A Beautiful Wedding Chalupa Mexican Restaurant Creek Ratz Hot Fish Club Ripley’s Haunted Adventure 7 Years Comfort Keepers Creative Touch Interiors Nash Oil Co., Inc. 6 Years BB&T - Murrells Inlet 5 Years Chavis Van & Storage-Agent for United Van Lines Curtis 1000 The Earthworks Group, Inc. Rent-A-Tool, Inc. - North Myrtle Beach Rent-A-Tool, Inc. - Myrtle Beach Security Vision Southwind On The Ocean

11 Years Apartment Finder Tradition Golf Club

4 Years Carolina Construction, Inc. East of Chicago Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina Qantum of Myrtle Beach, LLC Rowe Professional Services Company Señor Frogs

10 Years Carrabba’s Italian Grill - Myrtle Beach Fife Golf Management, dba TPC of Myrtle Beach Second Wind Tours, LLC SunBelt Rentals, Inc.

3 Years American Advantage Mortgage Company Apex Homes, Inc. beachlife.style Magazine Chick-fil-A - Surfside Beach

12 Years Sentry Films - The Hurricane Experts

Member Anniversaries, See Page 23

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2 Years Art Henry’s Myrtle Beach Adventures Arthur Rutenberg Homes Beazer Homes C-Aire La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries Palmer Enterprises-Identity Theft Protection/Compliance The Raub Group, LLC Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort South Carolina Bank and Trust - Oak St. 1 Year Access HearingCare Specialists Air Comfort Heating & Cooling Services of Myrtle Beach, Inc. AT&T Advertising AT&T Mobility Blue Moon Nursery & Garden Center, Inc. Custom Catering, Inc. Eagle Rider Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals For Sale Options, LLC Grant’s Furniture & Interiors Hungry Howie’s Pizza & Subs - Dick Pond Rd. Ichiro’s Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi JZ Graphics Lynn Cole Photography Maximum Digital Solutions Med Eyes Home of Pearle Vision Molly Darcy’s on the Beach Myrtle Beach Vacation Deals

Powalie & Associates Salt Creek Cafe Shoney’s - 1206 S. Kings Hwy. Shoney’s - 1805 N. Kings Hwy. Signature Arts, Inc. Tuscany Tile & Design Visual Data Systems

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

3 Years CNF Properties, LLC Coastal Carolina Dining Coastal Carolina Homestyles DockSider’s Grille Geeks on Call - 1-800-905-GEEK Grand Strand Fire Sprinkler Hooters of Murrells Inlet Jonea Gene Marketing & PR La Petite Styling Salon Life Line Chiropractic & Associates, LLC Minuteman Press Myrtle Beach Bucks Myrtle Beach Real Estate Pitney Bowes Global Mailing Systems RBC Centura - Pawleys Island Roger P. Roy, Jr., PA S.O.L.A.R. Resorts Southern Dunes Golf & Travel

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Hospitality Partnership Mark your calendar for Trio Dinner The Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association is hosting its third annual Trio Dinner at 6:30 p.m. on April 20 at the Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel, the presenting sponsor for the event. The Trio Dinner is the culmination of an innovative mentorship program that matches a local executive chef with a high school and college student. Along with excellent fare, the event includes entertainment by the Coastal Carolina University’s Jazz After Hours and After Hours Combo bands and a silent auction benefiting hospitality educational programming. High school students participating in the mentorship program are from the Academy for Technology and Academics. This magnet school receives students from throughout Horry County, who have an opportunity to sample hospitality courses including culinary arts in the middle and early high school years. The college students completing the trio are from the culinary arts program at Horry-Georgetown Technical College.

Hospitalit y r t n e r s h i p a p

Tickets for the Trio Dinner run $85 per person, and the attire is business dress. Tickets must be purchased in advance online at TrioDinner.org or by calling (843) 626-9668. Only 200 tickets are available, offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Be a part of this unique mentoring program by helping to sponsor the event. Sponsorships, which include complimentary tickets to the event, range from Event Partner ($10,000) and Entertainment Sponsor ($1,500) to Table Sponsor ($750) and Benefactor ($500). For sponsorship opportunities, contact Shirley Pearson, MBAHA director of membership services, at [emailprotected] or (843) 626-9668.

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To learn more about attending Hospitality Day at the State House and Taste of South Carolina, contact Shirley Pearson, MBAHA director of membership services, at [emailprotected] or (843) 626-9668. Public safety billboard campaign Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association has launched its 13th annual public safety appreciation campaign with a series of billboards throughout the Grand Strand. The 10 billboards display a message thanking public safety professionals for putting their lives on the line every day. The billboards were provided by NextMedia Outdoor Inc. and sponsored by Gold Crown Management, Genco Inc. and Thorny’s Steakhouse and Saloon.

Don’t miss Hospitality Day at the State House Meet with legislators and enjoy lunch on the lawn from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at the April 22 Hospitality Day at the State House and Taste of South Carolina. Restaurants from across the state will be serving samples of their menu specialties.

WELCOME CENTERS Summer Hours Main Office and Ashby Ward Welcome Center 1200 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach Phone: (843) 626-7444 Toll Free: (800) 356-3016 Hours: April through Labor Day 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday

Airport Welcome Center Myrtle Beach International Airport 1100 Jetport Rd., Myrtle Beach Phone: (843) 626-7444 Toll Free: (800) 356-3016 Hours: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Daily

South Strand Welcome Center 3401 U.S. 17 Bus. S., Murrells Inlet Phone: (843) 651-1010 Toll Free: (800) 356-3016 Hours: May through Labor Day 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday

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Apri l- M ay Calendar

Time

Event

Contact

Apr-Oct Apr 1 Apr 7 Apr 7 Apr 7 Apr 8 Apr 9 Apr 14 Apr 14 Apr 14 Apr 15

Varies 8:30-10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m. 8:30 a.m. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 8 a.m. 9-11 a.m. 8 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m. 8:30 a.m.

Info Line: 626-7444 Blakely Jenkins, 916-7232* Michelle Schollmeyer, 916-7267 Shannon Haswell, 916-7240 Blakely Jenkins, 916-7232* Pat Creed, 916-7225 Blakely Jenkins, 916-7232* Pat Creed, 916-7225 Info Line: 626-7444 Kate Miles, 916-7234 Shannon Haswell, 916-7240

Apr 15

5:30-7:30 p.m.

Apr 17 Apr 20 Apr 21 Apr 21

9 a.m. 6:30-8:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m.

Apr 22

11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Apr 28

9-11 a.m.

Apr 28 Apr 29

3 p.m. 5:30-7:30 p.m.

May 6

5:30-7:30 p.m.

May 9-17 May 12 May 12 May 12 May 13 May 13

Varies 8 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m. 8 a.m. 3:30 p.m.

May 14

7:30-9 a.m.

May 19 May 19 May 26 May 28

2:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3 p.m. 4:15-7 p.m.

Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo gsSCENE: Educational Breakfast – Public Speaking Convention Bureau Committee North Strand Council Chamber Academy: U.S. Postal Service Rate Change South Strand Ambassadors Chamber Academy: Recession Marketing Myrtle Beach Ambassadors Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo Committee Executive Committee Small Business Council gsSCENE: Spring Social at Anchor Cafe (Marina Inn at Grande Dunes) Legislative Policy Council Trio Dinner Finance Review Committee Board of Directors Hospitality Day at the State House and Taste of South Carolina Chamber Academy: Maximizing Your Leadership Opportunities Chamber Access Business After Hours at Myrtle Beach Pelicans gsSCENE: One Year Anniversary Celebration at The Boathouse 26th Annual National Tourism Week Myrtle Beach Ambassadors Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo Committee Executive Committee South Strand Ambassadors Membership Committee Business Before Hours at Cinzia The Spa at North Beach Plantation Finance Review Committee Board of Directors Chamber Access Business After Hours at Premier Resorts@Barefoot Resort

Blakely Jenkins, 916-7232* Kate Miles, 916-7234 Shirley Pearson, 626-9668* Shirley Landry, 916-7203 Kate Miles, 916-7234 Shirley Pearson, 626-9668 Blakely Jenkins, 916-7232* Blakely Jenkins, 916-7232* Info Line: 916-7250* Blakely Jenkins, 916-7232* Info Line: 626-7444 Pat Creed, 916-7225 Info Line: 626-7444 Kate Miles, 916-7234 Pat Creed, 916-7225 Shannon Haswell, 916-7240 Info Line: 916-7250* Shirley Landry, 916-7203 Kate Miles, 916-7234 Blakely Jenkins, 916-7232* Info Line: 916-7250*

* Register online at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com. For the most current meeting/event dates and times, go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com. Sign up for eNews Receive the latest Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce news via e-mail by subscribing to the chamber’s e-newsletters. To subscribe, go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click onSign up for eNews. Don’t forget to have your co-workers sign up for e-news too.

grand strander Kori Hippe Member Communications Manager Diana Greene Executive Vice President Membership Programs & Services Grand Strander 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. Check us out on the Web For more information about member benefits, upcoming events and business updates, visit us online at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com. Advertising Inquiries Reach more than 2,500 business leaders by advertising in the Grand Strander. Scott Head advertising sales manager (843) 916-7277 or [emailprotected] Member Services Area Code: (843) General Information: 626-7444 Membership Sales: 916-7219 or 7220 Advertising Sales: 916-7277 Public Relations: 916-7218 Marketing: 916-7262 Research: 916-7217 Festivals & Events: 916-7276 Executive: 916-7296 Convention & Visitors Bureau: 916-7260 gsSCENE: 916-7232 Leadership Grand Strand: 916-7222 Hospitality Partnership: 916-7219

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

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Grand Strander is printed by Inlet Printing Co.

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Calling all experts

MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com

Do you consider yourself an expert in your business field? Would like to share your knowledge with others? MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com has launched a new Small Business Resource Center page and is looking for member employees that would be interested in writing articles, posting blogs and answering questions from other small business personnel. • Where do I get a domain name? • How do you advertise on TV? Many new small businesses have these questions but it’s hard to find the answers. Everyone has a “live and learn” tale, and now here’s your chance to share a “if I would have only known“ tip. Or if you’re a marketing company, you can provide some helpful self-promotion advice. Check out the new Small Business Resource Center Web site at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on the center’s link on the right side of the page. If you have any suggestions or would be interested in helping out, contact Blakely Jenkins, education and small business programs manager, at [emailprotected] or (843) 916-7232.

Great Customer Service Roy Edmondson, sports and reunion sales manager with the Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, shares the following letter about incredible customer service: “I wanted to let you know that we have chosen the Grande Shores Resort for our stay in Myrtle Beach during Mustang Week in July. I'm so glad that I contacted your office about this matter. I have received so many proposals from resorts, theaters, restaurants and activity venues that I have been pleasantly overwhelmed for weeks going through them all. I have talked with so many nice folks in Myrtle who where so eagar to have us. But I must give special mention to three ladies who made this task so easy and a joy for me. Breanne Forsee, Jennifer Morse and Nancy Leska, all of whom are with Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts. I showed them what kind of a club we are and in terms of group rates, these ladies came to the table determined to bring the Yellow Mustang Registry to one of their fine resorts. The Grande Shores at 77th Avenue North is just the area we are looking for. I hope you will recognize these ladies in some way for the hard work they are doing to bring good people to Myrtle Beach. Please let their bosses know on my behalf how helpful they have been to our group.” Rick & Beth Eakes Grifton, NC 1994 Yellow Ford Mustang GT Convertible

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 Administration  General Manager  Human Resources  Marketing  President  Sales Share GS with … ________________________ ________________________ ________________________ 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, SC 29578 USPS 124-490

[PDF] 12 Incredible Customer Service ICE Awards applaud outstanding customer service. - Free Download PDF (2024)

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