Winterize Your Pets Tips Provided by Einstein’s Dog Sitting Provide extra food, as some pets have increased appetites during cold-weather months. Use sweaters, raincoats, hats or paw protection (such as shoes or booties). Buy heated water bowls for outdoor pets. Consider using heated beds for extreme cold weather. Keep nails trimmed regularly. It is difficult to maintain solid footing with long nails in icy conditions.
A Treat for Your Favorite Feline Friend Recipe provided by Einstein’s Pet Sitting Ingredients 1 3oz can wet cat food (any flavor) 1 tsp catnip Preparation Preheat oven to 350 Line baking sheet with foil or parchment paper Put catnip and cat food in to a blender. Cover and puree until it looks like frosting. Spoon mixture into a resealable plastic bag. Cut a small hole in the corner and squeeze half inch kisses onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes. Cool completely and store in an airtight container.
Feed Your Inner Hippie by Melissa LaScaleia Peace, Love, and Little Donuts has been open in the Market Common for the past sixteen months, and has quickly gained in popularity with the Market Common locals, as well as with tourists. “A lot of our regulars are not from the Market Common,” says Clayton Matthews, the owner and manager. “We have many from Socastee, Surfside, and even Conway. A good majority of our business is in the afternoon; and at night is when we get really busy. People like to stop and pick up donuts before and after dinner.” Peace, Love, and Little Donuts is not your run-of-the-mill donut munching experience. For starters, the donuts are made from a specific, controlled recipe, not a generic cake donut— and in Clayton’s words it’s, ‘A gourmet donut kind of deal.’ The interior as well as the donuts will feed your inner hippie. — Photo Meganpixels Parker To begin the experience, you first stand at the counter and see your donut being fried right in front of you. Then, on to the donut bar, and witness your selection being dressed up before your eyes. There are three levels of donut options: Groovy, Far Out, and Funkadelic, which range, as their titles imply, from something pretty cool to the works. Groovy selections are comprised of: plain, powdered sugar, glazed, and cinnamon sugar. Far Out donuts come with frosting; and Funkadelic ones are frosted plus any toppings. There are over sixty donut combinations from which to choose, which include several popular cereal and candy bar toppings, as well as more exotic toppings like salted caramel macchiato, and the all-time customer favorite— maple bacon. Other popular options are Apple Pie, Raspberry Truffle, and Peanut Nutter. In addition to the plain cake donut, by the middle of last year, the team had introduced two new flavors— Key lime pie and Robert Brûlée, a creme brûlée inspired donut. “We feel like we are a positive addition to the Market Common,” Clayton says. “We’ve had a lot of people who have worked for us since the day we opened— our employees are friendly and consistent in staying with us. “People can walk through the door and see people that they’ve seen before, that they see on an almost daily basis. We try to make sure that everyone who comes through the door has an enjoyable experience. Whether you’re here for two minutes or thirty, we want to make sure we have a relationship with you.” The Funkadelic donuts. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Peace, Love, and Little Donuts also offers doggie donuts for your favorite four-legged friend. It’s a donut with a peanut butter frosting with a milk-bone biscuit on top. “Those are really popular,” Clayton says. “We have people who bring their dogs in for one every day, and we don’t get any complaints from the dogs.” Limited quantities of gluten-friendly donuts are available on Tuesdays starting around noon. There is a full coffee bar serving all the specialty drinks with the addition of Chai Tea and nitro coffee. Nitro, for the uninitiated, is cold brew coffee on tap, which uses nitrogen, rather than the traditional CO2 to dispense the coffee out of a kegerator. It is drunk without ice, and the nitrogen infusion gives it a creamy texture, so much so that most people who drink it don’t opt to add cream or sugar. “This is a spot where people can come and hang out at for a bit anytime,” says Clayton. “We enjoy catering to the locals but also to those visiting. One of the fun parts of our job is meeting all the people that visit Myrtle Beach year round. And we look forward to staying open for years to come.” — Photo Meganpixels Parker Peace, Love, and Little Donuts is a much sought after locale for birthday parties. They have a private party room in the back, and can host up to thirty children at a time. They can even make their own donuts. The private room is also a popular spot for groups and businesses to host meetings; and they also cater for weddings and parties. Indeed, their options for both are as diverse as their toppings. “In our first year, we catered over fifty weddings,” says Clayton. “Everything from one dessert to all of the desserts. We also provide an on-site hot donut bar at the wedding just like you can find in our store. And we offer a very popular donut tower in addition to a wedding cake.” Peace, Love, and Little Donuts Open daily 8am-7pm Envelope Facebook Phone Internet-explorer
Coastal Inspired Living for Over 30 Years by Melissa LaScaleia Furniture & Mattress Gallery is a family owned business located in Murrells Inlet. “We pride ourselves in trying to provide excellent customer service,” says Bettie Jones, the owner. “I think that’s what sets us apart from some of the other furniture stores in the area, especially big-box stores.” Bettie’s deceased husband, Max Jones, started in the industry in Murrells Inlet thirty years ago with the Wicker Barn. Over time, Bettie grew the business into a complete home furnishing store. Today, Furniture & Mattress Gallery caters to both residents and vacation owners with their coastal-style furniture offerings. They also offer two brands of mattresses— Kingsdown and Tempur-Pedic. The interior of Furniture & Mattress Gallery. — Photo Furniture & Mattress Gallery “Kingsdown is a company that has been around for 100 years,” Bettie says. “They’re an employee-owned company and carry a high-quality mattress. We’ve been selling those for fifteen years and have had great customer satisfaction with them. “Tempur-Pedic mattresses are made from pressure relieving material. Anyone suffering with back problems or arthritis usually find great comfort when investing in this mattress.” Furniture & Mattress Gallery also carries pictures, lamps, and accessories, as well as many upholstery lines like Rowe, Four Seasons, Capris and Best Chairs. For those interested in leather sofas and chairs, Bradington/Young is available. They have a bedroom and dining line which is bench made in Ohio, by the Amish, called Palettes by Winesburg. They also offer full customization. Lexington, Stanley, John Thomas, Gabby, and Vaughan Basset are just some of the other manufacturers they carry. They offer fully customizable lines, as well as furniture that is bench made in Ohio by the Amish. — Photo Furniture & Mattress Gallery Furniture & Mattress Gallery offers free design services for customers who purchase from their store. The designers will go to your home and create floor plans for your space. This ensures that there are no unforeseen issues with the sizing of your furniture. If you need additional assistance, such as window treatments, that can be arranged with your designer at an hourly rate. “As a small business owner, I am always looking for ways to improve our service and accommodate our new and existing clientele,” Bettie says. “You always have to change with the times, so we continue to search for new manufacturers and innovations in furniture. We try to reach out to all the new members of our growing community. “Please visit our store, meet our friendly staff, and have a great shopping experience.” Furniture & Mattress Gallery Envelope Facebook Phone Internet-explorer
A Hometown Local Bank With Plenty of Tech Savvy by Melissa LaScaleia Anderson Brothers Bank is a local institution that began back in the early 1930s, when tobacco farmers needed financing for their crop. During the recession, there wasn’t an option for farmers to secure funding, so the Anderson family offered it to them out of the back of an old tobacco warehouse in Marion County. From these humble beginnings, Anderson Brothers Bank has evolved into a full service community bank, with twenty-three branches from North Myrtle Beach to as far south as Summerville and inland to Florence, with everything that you’d expect from a modern day bank— 24 hour ATMs, online banking, and an advanced mobile app. They opened their newest branch in the spring of 2017 in the Market Common, and hope to unveil their twenty-fourth location in the Murrells Inlet area this year. The bank has had a temporary headquarters on Oleander Drive for the past five years; they are currently constructing a branch on Grissom Parkway which will be the new center for the Myrtle Beach area— set to open in April 2019. “We’re excited about this because it’s going to be similar in construction, offerings, and feel to the recently opened Market Common branch,” says Bryan Lenertz, Horry County executive for the bank. “It will be inviting and customer engaging, with a coffee bar and the latest technology.” Bryan Lenertz (left) stands with David Anderson (right), the bank’s president and CEO, outside the Market Common branch. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Just as it was almost a century ago, today, Anderson Brothers Bank is locally owned and run by the Anderson family. The third generation team includes: David Anderson as president, Tommy Anderson as vice president, and Neal Anderson as the chairman of the board. Bryan Lenertz has been working for Anderson Brother’s Bank for the past seven years, overseeing eight branches throughout the region. He chose to work for Anderson Brothers after meeting David, the president. “He was progressive, with new ideas, and a thinking-outside-the-box mindset,” Bryan says. “It’s a really neat bank to work at because Mr. Anderson isn’t a micro manager. He gives people the space to make their own decisions, and if you make a mistake, it’s seen as an opportunity for growth, to do something differently next time. “There’s a lot of freedom and autonomy to do your job and try to do it well in your own way. As a result, each of our branches has a slightly different feel. All of them still offer the same excellent service, they just have a different feel relative to their geographic location and who works there.” “Banks are so regulated now, that really what sets them apart is the people,” he continues. “Knowing that, we try to hire the best possible people with great personalities. Our market all over Horry County— Conway, Aynor, Loris, Longs, North Myrtle Beach— continues to grow and expand. Each branch continues to grow in asset size. And we have a fantastic team all over Horry County.” In addition to the new branches, this year, Anderson Brothers is also remodeling their North Myrtle Beach branch inside and out. The interior of the new Market Common branch. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “We’re giving it a facelift,” he says. “We’re doing away with the old teller line and putting in teller pods to facilitate better customer experiences.” ITMs (Interactive Teller Machines) will eventually replace ATMs at all of the bank’s branches. They connect patrons via video call to the live, local call center staffed by Anderson Brothers Bank employees— ideal for those who are in a hurry and don’t have time to go into the bank for service but still need personalized assistance. The machines dispense cash like an ATM, but additionally, they can receive loan payments and accept numerous check and cash deposits at once. “Over the next eighteen months, as our technology evolves, we’ll be replacing all of our ATMs across our entire footprint,” Bryan says. “Some of our branches have been designed to add more than one. “People want a community bank, and that need is always there. But they still want speed in their responsiveness. So we put a lot of emphasis with our team to get people an answer to their questions as quickly as possible, whether that’s through the ITM, over the phone, or in person. It’s not just about being local, it’s about a quick answer. Nobody wants to apply for a loan and wonder, three weeks from now, what’s going on. We structure our culture that way.” The Market Common branch. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Also part of their culture is their commitment to helping out community members with lower credit scores with consumer lending. “No matter your credit score, we try to help everybody,” Bryan says. “It gives you a good feeling to work at a place like that.” Anderson Brothers helps lenders with credit scores of 550 and up to secure lower interest loans more than any other bank in the area. “Often people have had a setback like an accident or illness, and they’re out of work,” Bryan says. “And they think they will only be able to procure a loan at a higher interest rate. We can help people who live in this area to get back on their feet. “Even though we are expanding like we are, we stick to our tagline of treating you like family,” Bryan concludes. “When you come into a branch, we still know our customers by name. Even though we’re becoming more tech savvy, we retain that hometown bank feel. It’s still a local bank with local decision making— that’s how I would define us today.” Anderson Brother’s Bank www.abbank.com
Supporting Myrtle Beach’s Vibrant and Thriving Art Community by Melissa LaScaleia The Seacoast Artists Gallery, a subset of the Seacoast Artists Guild, opened its doors to the public on May 1, 2013. Both the Gallery and the Guild are 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. “We were looking for a place for a number of our guild members to display and sell their art,” says Woody Bower, the gallery director. “We had met with the folks at the Market Common the year prior— they were looking for a gallery, and we were looking for a space— and it was a good fit for us both.” The Seacoast Artists Guild began as a small art group in Pawley’s Island. It has been in existence since 2003, and over the years has grown to include 250 members throughout the Grand Strand. It is the largest artist guild in the area. “Back in the Middle Ages, all tradespeople were in guilds,” he says. “They fostered a sense of community. Just like ages ago, our guild is comprised of artists who come together to share talents, skills, and knowledge and meet with like-minded people. We have monthly meetings with demonstrations in new techniques for an art form, or photography software, lectures, things pertaining to art. We also teach art classes at the gallery for the general public.” The gallery is a place for artists in the area to be able to meet and spend time with other artists. As an individual artist, finding spaces like the gallery provides isn’t easy; typically you have to have your own studio. It’s also an opportunity for the gallery’s members to display their art. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Ten months out of the year, the gallery will display between seventy to seventy-five of their members’ works of art. Then, twice a year, in April and October, the walls are cleared for the All Members Show and Sale, when the entire guild has the chance to display their new art works. “For the first half of October, we showcase the works of the Seacoast Artists Guild,” says Woody. “In the second half, we host works by the Waccamaw Arts and Crafts Guild. In April, we showcase some of the works by youth in the area.” As part of their outreach to the young artists in the community, the Seacoast Artists Guild provides an annual $1000 college scholarship to Horry and Georgetown County students who plan to pursue an education in art. “The vision for the gallery is to try to get the word out to both locals and visitors that we have a vibrant art community, and it’s thriving,” Woody say. “We have people who put us on their vacation destination list— people who come back to visit on their yearly trips.” Woody himself is a photographer, and discovered his craft later in life. The interior of the gallery, which showcases all local works. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “I was doing a lot of international traveling in the ’90s,” he says, “and started recording some of the things I was seeing by taking photographs. I’ve been to Brazil, Australia, Ireland, Scotland, Germany, and China. “My wife and I have lived in Myrtle Beach since 2000. I could work from home and travel wherever I needed to travel. When I retired in 2010, my daughter convinced me to start framing some of the photographs I was taking and sell them at arts and crafts shows as a retirement hobby. “I started attending many arts and crafts shows. I got to know a lot of the local artists, and got involved with a lot of the local arts and crafts guilds and fairs. The Seacoast Artists Guild is the one that I became the most heavily involved with. I was president of the guild for the past seven years and retired last year.” Sharon Sorrels is one of the gallery’s original artists. Her work has been on display since the gallery first opened. She is an oil painter, and also creates charcoal and colored pencil drawings. “Most artists would like a place to display their work,” she says. “I’m very happy that I can display mine, and as the occasion arises, sell it. It’s also a place to communicate your artistic feelings about things. There’s art of all types in the gallery, and every artist has a different view point; it’s a place to show your perspective on life. “The gallery is a meeting point for the guild; a place where we have workshops, where we can touch bases, share ideas on methodologies, and get pointers on how to do things. It’s a very friendly place— it’s a place for networking and sharing. I moved here from Washington, DC and I’m retired now. When I moved here twelve years ago, it was a great place to meet people with similar ideas and goals.” “The gallery is a place to communicate your artistic feelings about things… every artist has a different view point— it’s a place to show your perspective on life.” —Sharon Sorrels, gallery artist — Photo Meganpixels Parker It’s also a great meeting place for the public. The gallery hosts art classes as well as art history classes. They have open gatherings with music and refreshments. “We like to be a part of the community as well as being a place where guild members gather,” Sharon says. “Art has always been a part of my life although I never made a living from it as my primary job,” says Donna Clement, another guild member and gallery artist. “But I’ve painted for 50 years. “When I retired and came down here, it gave me something meaningful to do. It has been an important means of structure for me. I joined the Seacoast Artists Guild to get to know the other local artists and to be a part of the local art community, but since joining the gallery, it’s become a good way for me to display and sell my art. I’ve had quite a … Read more
A Conway Native Offers Affordable Services to the Community by Melissa LaScaleia Lewis Crematory and Funeral Services is a full-service crematory and funeral service provider located on Highway Bypass 17 South, just north of the hospital, in Myrtle Beach. Kelvin Ford Lewis opened the business in July 2018. “I’ve been in the funeral business for more than twenty years,” Kelvin says. “I previously owned a crematory in North Carolina that I sold. I’m licensed in SC and NC and a native of Conway.” Kelvin wanted to provide a low-cost service and facility for Horry and Georgetown County, and felt that Myrtle Beach would be a good location for his business. One of the visitation rooms at Lewis Crematory. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Kelvin got started in the industry as a boy helping to tend the local cemetery, Westside Memorial Gardens in Conway, as well as the funeral home whenever they needed assistance. “It was owned by Billy Jordan,” Kelvin says. “He also owned Palmetto Funeral Home in Conway. Over the years, my involvement progressed, and I adopted the profession. What I like most about this business is to be able to serve families during their time of need.” Bill J. Gray is the manager of Lewis Crematory and Funeral Services, and has been licensed since 1975. Lewis Crematory is a full-service crematory, chapel, and funeral service provider in Myrtle Beach adhering to the same protocols and standards set by the state, at a fraction of their competitor’s cost. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “I’m licensed in Virginia, Ohio, and South Carolina and also Board Certified by the National Board of Funeral Service,” he says. “As a young boy, I had good friends in this industry and did some labor work around the funeral home. And that progressed, as it does for many of us in this industry, to going to college and getting licensed. You’re sort of born into the niche of the funeral service.” “There is an influx of people retiring and moving here from other states,” he adds. “And there aren’t enough affordable funeral homes to support the population needs for this service. So we’re evolving as more people move down here. The non-denominational chapel. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “We are a full service crematory and funeral service provider at the most reasonable price in the state.” Lewis Crematory also offers memorial, chapel and ship out services— in which the body is embalmed here and shipped to the location family members designate. “By law, all funeral homes have to follow the same guidelines, protocols, rules, and regulations as to performing a service,” Bill says. “We charge a fraction of what the competition does, but adhere to the same standards and protocols as designated by the state. We have an onsite crematory so that your loved one never leaves our care.” Lewis Crematory and Funeral Services Open 24 hours for calls and service. Envelope Facebook Phone Internet-explorer At
Hand-cut Steaks, Quality Food, and Authentic Hospitality by Melissa LaScaleia George Ghazaryan opened Angus Steakhouse and Seafood in 2013 in Myrtle Beach. In a conversation with the Insider, he reveals the combination of passion, work ethic, commitment, and team effort that made and continue to make Angus Steakhouse and Seafood a success. “I came to this country fifteen years ago after graduating from university,” he says. “And it was like we lived the American Dream. I first worked in New Jersey, Chicago, then Delaware before moving to Myrtle Beach. Every day we worked hard and saved money. “Growing up, watching movies, my cousin and I conceived of having a restaurant in America with a western feel; we thought people would really like it. My wife, my cousin and I are all big steak lovers and we wanted to have a really authentic steakhouse in Myrtle Beach. “We told all of our friends and cousins about the idea, and everyone came together; they gave money and time, and helped to build it from the inside out. We had the vision and created the plan, and did almost everything ourselves— the construction, painting, fixing things— everything we could do ourselves, we did. We chased our dream.” Angus Steakhouse and Seafood serves fire-grilled cuisine with a little bit of a western flair. They serve only Angus beef, aged for at least twenty-eight days; their steaks are all hand-cut in-house. What’s on tap at Angus Steakhouse and Seafood. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “Most of our seafood is fresh from Virginia,” George says. “But some seafood isn’t available fresh. For example, crab legs are caught in Alaska and precooked on the boat. So we say that we offer fresh when it is possible. We also try to accommodate everybody’s dietary needs. We have vegetarian options, and because the majority of our food comes from the grill, most of it is also gluten free. “It’s healthy, simple, authentic cuisine; good quality food with good prices. And we make all of our sauces ourselves. Everybody loves our ranch dressing— we probably go through five gallons a day. I see servers taking 2-3 helpings to the tables, because the people keep asking for more of it. People call me specifically to request takeout orders of it.” For George, a positive culture and ownership of one’s job in his restaurant is just as important as the food that he serves. “I always tell my cooks— I’m not asking you to be a five star Michelin chef, but put your heart into this. Hospitality is a huge part of my culture where I am from. Growing up as a kid, it was always the best for guests, family, and friends. Guests were always welcomed into our home, and we gave them the very best that we had to offer. Family and friends would come and they’d tell old stories and new stories, and we’d cook together. “Here, if the food is not the very best we can offer, if it is not something you would serve to yourself or your family, then we don’t serve it to our guests. None of us has a degree in cooking, but what we do do is keep it simple, and cook from the heart. We think we are a little bit successful in this restaurant because of this simple mentality. We are not very corporate. We don’t have many rules. But we do follow these principles.” “None of us has a degree in cooking, but what we do do is keep it simple, and cook from the heart.” — George Ghazaryan — Photo Meganpixels Parker George’s philosophy of service and giving from the heart extends to the way he treats his employees, and the culture he has created— that of everyone working together as a team to help one another. “Everyday I come to the restaurant, and if I see the person washing the dishes needs help, then I help him,” George says. “And if the cook needs help, I help him. Just get the job done, and put in the extra effort. That’s how we get through the busy days and the slow days. We all get together and help each other. The people who are here, they want to be here. If they don’t want to be here doing their job, then I tell them: ‘Don’t come, you are free to go. It is important that in life you do what you want to be doing.’ But here, we give effort to make sure that what you do for the guests, for your colleagues, and your community members, is the best that you can offer.” George believes he is in the best place in America, living and working in Myrtle Beach. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “People don’t realize how great this place is,” he says. “I have friends and cousins and family all over the United States; I’ve lived all over the United States, and I travel a lot. It is very affordable here. Here, you can get almost the same quality of life, the same resources for raising a family and enjoying a vacation, as many other places that are much more expensive. When I compare what you get in Myrtle Beach from starting a business, to other places— here it is so much easier to open a business, work hard, and build something for yourself in your life. “Recently I was in Orlando, and I ate at every steakhouse I could, trying their dinners. The quality is not better than what I serve here, but they are charging probably 30% more. “Another thing I like about Myrtle Beach is that you have between seven and nine months out of the year that are really busy, and then you have three months of vacation. In this country, I’ve noticed, weekends are very popular. But sometimes a weekend is not enough time to travel and go to the next state or the next country. Living in Myrtle Beach, it’s like you get three months of weekends over the winter.” Angus Steakhouse and Seafood Envelope Facebook … Read more
by the Little River Chamber of Commerce Little River, which once was a quaint fishing village, has evolved into a still-quiet, but fun-filled community. Here, we enjoy plenty of fresh local seafood, entertainment, and nearby attractions along the Grand Strand. Little River is located in the northeast corner of Horry County, just below the North Carolina border. With numerous fishing charters, marinas, waterfront restaurants and other activities in Little River, locals and visitors alike are sure to find plenty to do. Many enjoy our proximity to beaches without the bustle, as we are less than 15 minutes from North Myrtle Beach, SC and only 20 minutes from Sunset Beach, NC. Little River, like the Grand Strand, has a mild year-round climate – perfect for golfing and outdoor activities. We encourage you to enjoy one of the many restaurants in Little River. From seafood to steak, casual or fine dining, one of our local eateries is sure to satisfy your craving. Many of our businesses are located on or just off of Highway 17, so stop by and see what treasure Little River has to offer you. For more information on this quaint community, visit LittleRiverChamber.org.
by Ashley Daniels The all-new Manifest Design in the Market Common is more than just an interior design showroom, it’s an exploration of design elements that inspire and delight, transporting you in time and place with their unusual nautical and space-themed decor. Unlike a museum, however, you can touch and buy what’s on display. “Parents will bring their kids in here and it’s like a history lesson,” says owner/interior designer Connie Lincoln. Manifest Design’s collection is an eclectic mix of nautical and aviation (a perfect complement to the setting at the former Air Force base), old and new, plus so much more, with sextants, old plane propellers, pieced, teak end-tables, ship and plane models, compass décor and more. Their intriguing inventory is a unique balance of rustic charm and cutting edge— including lamps, wall art, luxury furniture, and imaginative knick- knacks that are certainly conversation starters. They also carry award-winning baby shower gifts, like the softest baby blankets your baby will lay his sweet head on, and (my favorite) food-for-thought quote prints; gifts for wine lovers; and thoughts from the likes of Audrey Hepburn. Connie tells me one of her customers from Italy once described it as “a vacation for your eyes!” While most of us were counting down the minutes to the new year in the Market Common, Manifest Design was just opening up its doors on New Year’s Eve in its new location here on Howard Ave. The original Manifest was located in historic downtown Wilmington, N.C., but Hurricane Florence nearly swept it and all of its beautiful contents away. Connie and her husband Bill, a veteran Marine Corps pilot, had already been living in their recent retirement home in the Grande Dunes, so the store’s move to Myrtle Beach was a natural next step. Connie, born and raised in Green Bay, Wisconsin, lived in Wilmington for the last twenty-nine years before her recent move to Myrtle Beach. Before she opened Manifest Design in Wilmington, she earned a B.S. in fashion merchandising and marketing from Northern Illinois University. Connie and Bill have been married for thirty-five years, and have two grown sons. Connie’s experienced interior design services are also offered at Manifest Design, including in-home consultation, space planning, color selections, window treatments, lighting, 3-D renderings, re-upholstery, wall covering, yacht interiors, floorings and custom-ordered furniture and accessories. “Our design services are completely personalized to suit your personality, taste and lifestyle,” says Connie. Visit manifestdesignilm.com
by Brad Jordan Carolina Forest is a fast growing community that is located adjacent to Myrtle Beach proper. Members of the community enjoy a close proximity to the beach and all that Myrtle Beach has to offer in entertainment and dining. The area is very attractive to those who are looking to relocate to Myrtle Beach. From the census taken in 2000 to the one taken in 2010, Carolina Forest experienced a growth in population of 500%. After the next census is conducted in 2020, it is expected that the trend will continue. Carolina Forest’s location makes it a highly desirable area in which to live. With the growth in population, there has been a need for additional infrastructure and schools. Horry County has added a new elementary school on Carolina Forest Boulevard called Ten Oaks Elementary. It also has begun the widening of its main artery for travel on Carolina Forest Boulevard that connects with River Oaks. Also, International Drive has recently been completed, connecting Carolina Forest with Conway. Newly added to the area is a new CVS and several other commercial properties servicing the area. As a result of this growth, Carolina Forest has seen a great deal of boost in real estate sales transactions and new development. From 2012 to June 2018, the average sales price in the Carolina Forest area has increased by 34%. In 2012, the average sales price was $190,714 per home, while the sales price in 2018 was $290,882 per home. The time it takes for a home listed on the market has been steadily trending downward. In 2018, the average number of days on the market were 142. It is a great time to sell your home if you are thinking of doing so; conversely as the interest rates start to climb, it is also a good time to buy before the rates go higher.
by the Town of Surfside Beach Last month, the Town of Surfside Beach celebrated its second anniversary of being the First Autism Friendly Travel Destination—anywhere. The City of Myrtle Beach and Horry County issued similar resolutions at the end of 2018. People with autism have a hard time with lights, sounds, smells, crowds and new environments. As autism is a communication disorder, many with autism can only express their discomfort via tantrums and meltdowns. These episodes are many times greeted by stares, judgement and rude comments from those nearby, making it difficult and uncomfortable as a family, to leave the house, try new things or even go to the grocery store. Being understanding of the sensory challenges people with autism and their families face is important. Since January 2016, Surfside Beach and the autism friendly travel initiative have been recognized nationally by NBC Nightly News, Travel & Leisure, the Associated Press and many others. In December, Surfside was visited by the British Broadcasting Corporation, documenting our community, and other communities in America, that support families with autism. The documentary is to air in the spring. The efforts by our Town and region, in conjunction with Champion Autism Network, provide our community with increased economic opportunity, attracting a loyal and growing population. Having the community members more aware of the challenges those with autism and their families face, helps to reduce judgement and criticism and provides those families with the courage to leave the house and have fun as a family. Some autism facts: Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. Some people with autism cannot speak, but they can understand what is being said to or about them. Be kind. Many people with autism have difficulty with social interaction and making eye contact. As of April 2018, the diagnosis rate is 1 in 59 children. Flapping of hands, spinning or rocking, known as “stimming,” calms people with autism. Many children with autism have trouble with crowds, lights, sounds and smells. As behavior is a form of communication, some communicate their discomfort through meltdowns or tantrums. If you see a child having a meltdown, this could be a person and autism family in crisis—not a naughty child or poor parent. Educating the public about the needs of our families will reduce judgement. Providing a supported vacation, modified for family members with autism, will be not only good for the local and tourist families but for our region and economy. To learn more or get involved, please go to www.championautismnetwork.com. #YesYouCAN
by Melissa LaScaleia Statistically, American Red Cross sees the highest number of home fires during the winter months, especially January, than at any other time of the year. “It’s cold, and people are trying to build warmth, and many of their techniques pose safety risks,” says Amy Brauner, executive director for American Red Cross, Southeast Division. The Red Cross responds to every home fire in our community to offer comfort in times of crisis, but wants the community to know that home fires are preventable. Here are some things you can do to keep home fires at bay: If you use a space heater, only use it when you’re present in the room, and make sure it’s plugged directly into a wall, and not a power strip or extension cord. A space heater uses more energy and electricity than the power strip was meant to hold. When it’s overstressed, it will explode— it’s just a matter of time. Don’t ever fall asleep with a space heater running, as a fire could ignite long before you awaken and notice. If you put something in between the heater and the wall, like an extension cord, it’s going to act like a third party generator. It interferes with the direct transfer of energy between the energy source and what’s being powered, and there’s more room for error, increasing the risk of a fire starting. Don’t heat your home with your stove. A gas operated stove will emit carbon monoxide when lit. When you open the stove door to act as a heater, the oven has to keep working to generate heat, emitting more of the gas than you otherwise would. This gas depletes the oxygen in the air. People often warm themselves in front of their stove, and as the oxygen levels are depleted their brain begins to shut down. Add to this an increase in the temperature, and they fall into a coma from carbon monoxide; it causes serious injury and sometimes death, especially in the young and elderly. Additionally, a nearby dishtowel, or remnants in the stove can catch on fire from the heat. Avoid running extension cords under your carpet, rugs, or other furniture. Extension cords can become overloaded, or the wires can get frayed under the weight of furniture or a rug, or the friction caused from walking over it, causing a fire. Never smoke in bed. It takes less than two minutes for an entire house to fill with smoke and for people to become so obfuscated that they can’t exit. Most newer homes have an open layout as opposed to individual rooms. There’s nothing that’s stopping a flame, so fires are able to move much faster. Double check to ensure you have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.
Serving Four Tours at MBAF Base; Two Tours in Vietnam by Melissa LaScaleia William H. Rutherford was born in Montgomery, Alabama, and joined the United States Air Force where he was a Command fighter pilot for more than thirty years. He also served in the District of Columbia’s National Guard forces as part of his military career. During his tenure in the military, William was stationed at the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base four times— in 1957, 1968, 1970, and 1976. In 1970, during the Vietnam conflict, William was deployed to Cambodia. On May 30, he was responsible for leading a mission against the enemy. Called a strafing mission, he orchestrated the troops to attack targets on the ground from low-flying planes. The mission took place in Parrots Beak. William was flying an F-100 aircraft when he discovered that his wingman was having problems with his radio. He hastily made a pass over the enemy and dropped a bomb, then flew up to his wingman to offer aid, before making another bombing pass. William attempted a third low-flying bomb-dropping pass before he was hit by the enemy from the ground. His plane was engulfed in flames, and he was forced to eject. When he reached the ground, he was standing in the midst of a group of water buffalo, who were eyeing and sniffing him with hostility. To scare them away, he thought to discharge his pistil, then heard a multitude of firearms all around him, and realized that the animals weren’t disturbed in the least by all of the noise. He was rescued by a helicopter before the enemy could find him. In total, William served two tours in Vietnam— in 1969 and 1970. He flew a total of 100 combat missions in a number of aircraft including: the F-86H, F-100D, and A-7D. He served a third tour of duty at the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, and a fourth tour here as well, in June 1976. This time, as the Chief of Airfield Management. During his time in the military he received the following awards and decorations: the Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters; Air Force Commendation Medal; Purple Heart; Vietnam Cross of Gallantry; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; and the Meritorious Service Medal. He retired from the military in 1981. William was instrumental in contributing to the historical information about the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base found throughout the Market Common on signposts, and in the museum. He passed away on May 7, 2008.
Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together. This February, Charlie gets warm and fuzzy feelings in his heart, and makes plans for Valentine’s Day with his new love interest. It’s the season of love— better known as Valentine’s Day. And this year, rather than being paired up with a rather unlikely partner (my loyal fans, you know what I’m talking about— for everyone else, read the archives here), I’m pleased to say I have a girlfriend with whom to share this special day. Her name is Winnie. And she is not a squirrel or a figment of my imagination— she is a dog, just like me. Of the maltipoo, or Bichon variety, I believe— but what’s in a classification anyway? She’s perfect. I could just go on and on about how great she is. We first met at one of the local festivals here in the Market Common some months back. I really liked her style. I mean, she’s a maltipoo/Bichon, and everyone knows how adorable they are. But what drew me to her was her unique style—she has this certain je ne sais quoi if you know what I mean. (Secret aside: I need to brush up on my French as I think it is a more romantic language than English, so I am practicing now so as to impress la mi amore later this month. I think that was maybe a bit of Italian, but I’m not sure. I hope she won’t know either, and will just be impressed. I’ll just smile a lot and be my charming self. That usually does the trick. Okay, enough of this aside, it became longer than I anticipated.) We kept bumping into one another since we’re both Market Common doggies, and run with the same circles. Every time I see her, she’s wearing a different hat. She has them custom-made down in Surfside. Now that’s classy. I was so impressed, I got one of my own. Maybe she knew how much I admired her, because now she comes to visit me often to show me her new outfit for the day. She is my one and only. This ladies man is retiring, to be a one-Winnie-doggie for life. We have so much in common in addition to both loving her outfits. We both like living that uptown, downtown Market Common life. She comes to the office to visit me pretty frequently, and I think she’s impressed by my journalism skills. Every time she walks in the room, I just know it’s her. And I feel my little doggie heart go pitter patter. I’m trying to decide where to take her on our Valentine’s Day date. Perhaps my cherished tree in the dog park. Maybe I should keep it more urban though— perhaps underneath my special bench in the Market Common? I will probably bring her my favorite doggie biscuit, as I know she has a soft spot for treats. She’s just that sweet. Maybe she would enjoy a viewing of Lady and the Tramp and playing with my collection of prized chew toys. Now that’s an idea! Stay tuned and I’ll tell you all about it next month. Until next time,
Diet Overload by Emma Ware Diet Overload. Wherever we look today there are programs saturating social media, internet, television, and magazines with diet options like Keto, Vegan, Paleo, Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, South Beach, Vegetarian, Atkins, and Nutri-system just to name a few. Each one touts their systems and presents testimonials from people who used their programs, resulting in amazing weight loss with pictures to prove their success. With such saturation from so many different programs, what does one pick? In addition to those who desire to look thinner, for many, real health reasons like diabetes or high blood pressure makes loosing weight essential to improve their health conditions. Selecting the right diet is a real problem for many people today who are trying to sort out the differences between each plan, and identify which one is best for their situation. Let me start the conversation by discussing the ingredients in these diets that have me most concerned. If you have been following me for awhile, you know about my adversity to artificial sweeteners, flavorings, colors, additives and preservatives. Eating healthy requires making choices to avoid foods with the above ingredients. Unfortunately, just about every program includes some type of smoothie or shake as a meal replacement that contains artificial sweeteners, food colorings, flavors, and preservatives— in other words, fake food to encourage you to drink a drink rather than eat real wholesome foods. This is just one of the reasons people gain back the pounds lost after the program ends— your body needs real food— not shakes or smoothies. Weight loss requires cooking— real cooking at home with real food and knowledge of which foods will benefit the body and balance the digestive system. We should be cooking 60% of our meals at home. Don’t shock your body by replacing healthy foods with convenient drinks and ready-made packaged foods that are void of nutrients. Thats not what people want to hear, but it’s reality. Every diet method is a temporary fix which works for a while, but the end result is gaining back the weight lost when you go back to the eating habits formed before starting any program. Statics reported by several studies from WebMD, American Psychological Association, and Slate and Science Daily, confirm that 95-97% of dieters regain the weight lost, and even more within the first 3 to 4 months to a year after they end the program. Real weight loss requires changing your thinking and changing your habits— educating yourself about food choices and really committing to a lifestyle change. Every weight loss program has the same attraction: someone does the work for you. Meals are prepared and shipped to you ready to eat. Just microwave it and you are done. One commercial actually says, “It’s easy, you just eat the food and lose the weight.” Other programs offer apps that tell you in points what you can eat to lose weight. Eating under a certain amount guarantees success, but what that program doesn’t tell you is how much real food is needed to maintain a healthy body. Shakes and protein bars offer quick hunger fixes but the real issue is what happens after you reach your goal. What happens when your body breaks down because it has been deprived of nutrients? This is the real issue with all weight loss programs; it’s the convenience without the work, but as mentioned previously, it’s only a temporary fix. My research uncovered that most of the prepared meals contain artificial ingredients your body can’t identify. Additionally, imbalances are created from removing foods with necessary vitamins and nutrients from the programs focused on high protein and no carbs, or very little protein, all of which creates confusion our bodies cannot identify easily. If a healthy body, more energy, and less stress is your goal, choose to make the leap by changing your thinking. Take time to learn how to eat real food and loose weight permanently. I know our lives are busy but ask yourself if you are worth the time and effort to make the change. My guess is the answer is yes. I’m here to encourage and support you as you step up to the challenge. Please check with your doctor when deciding to make any health changes and know you can always stop by the office at 2798-D Howard Avenue in Market Common. You can call me at 843 997-7037 or email me at emmawarenutrition@yahoo.com. As always, Emma
Chocolate Chocolate-Chip Love Scones Did you know that chocolate releases feel good hormones in your brain? It impacts your physiognomy similarly to how you feel when you’re in love, enjoying an activity, or delighted by an experience. No wonder why chocolate is our cultural go-to delight for Valentine’s Day— the day we celebrate love and life. This month, take some time out to enjoy this decadent, sumptuous recipe with those you love— whether it’s your family, yourself, your friends, or that special someone. This makes for an indulgent breakfast accompaniment or an elegant and unexpected dessert when drizzled with homemade raspberry sauce. Bring on the port, coffee, or a glass or milk, and you’ll be sure to win some hearts. Ingredients Makes 12-16 triangular scones 2 cups all-purpose flour ½ cup unsweetened cocoa 1 Tbs baking powder ½ tsp salt 7 Tbs cold unsalted butter cut up ⅓ cup granulated sugar ¾ cup chocolate chips ⅔ cup milk Directions Heat the over to 375. Put the flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt into a large bowl. Stir to mix well. Add the butter and cut in with a pastry bender or your fingers until the mixture looks like fine granules. Add the sugar and toss to mix. Stir in the chocolate chips. Add the milk and stir with a fork until a soft dough forms. Pour out onto a lightly floured surface and give 10-12 kneads just until mixed and the dough forms a ball. Cut the dough in half. Knead each half briefly and lightly into a ball and turn smooth side up. Pat each half into a 6-inch circle and cut each into 6-8 wedges. Place the wedges on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 13-15 minutes until the scone springs back when lightly pushed. Cool on a wire rack.
Beach-Lover Dawn Roblero Takes Advantage of the Balmy Weather Year-Round With Her Family by Melissa LaScaleia Introduce me to your family. My husband’s name is Carlos, and I have three boys: Jamison, Jordan, and Carlos. Why did you move to the Market Common? We’re from Ohio. We moved here because we don’t like the snow. We live in Emmens Preserve. Where are all the places you came from? I grew up in Ohio; this is our first move. Do you have a favorite place in the Market Common? We enjoy going to Nacho Hippo a lot. What’s your favorite thing about living in the Market Common? Going to the beach. We also love that there’s so much to do here year-round, especially outdoors. How has your lifestyle changed since moving here? I would say it has changed a lot because now we have more opportunities to enjoy being outside. There’s so much more you can do here than you can in Ohio because of the weather. In Ohio, you only get a good three months out of the year when you can do things outside, because then it just rains. We’re able to be active here year-round. We go to Broadway at the Beach and walk around; there are always festivals to attend; and we ride our bikes a lot. We really like to be outside. Do you find people friendlier or more at ease? Yes. People down here are much nicer. They’re definitely more laid back. What are your favorite things to do here? We really like the beach and swimming a lot. Is there anything that you miss or would like to see in the Market Common? A Kroger.
Take a moment to celebrate our Veteran Kelly Sharbel. Read all about his story on this months edition. Thank you for your service!
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