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Day: November 1, 2019

Always the Season to Give

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The 6th Annual Myrtle Beach Craft Fair by Melissa LaScaleia Mickey Davis and her husband Norton have been spending their winters in Myrtle Beach for the past decade.  “Because it’s winter and there are less tourists here, I notice the unemployment,” she says. “And because of the unemployment, I noticed the lack of food. My son is a food director for the Burlington, Vermont schools, and for years he’s heard about the kids who go home after their lunch on Friday and don’t eat again until Monday when they come to school. And the same thing happens in South Carolina.”  As a career, Mickey was involved in social work, so she’s always tried to help others in one capacity or another.  When she first started coming to Myrtle Beach, she decided to start a food collection box at Ocean’s One Resort, where she stays for the winter. She notified her friends in the resort so they could spread the word, and when the box was full, Mickey would deliver it to the Myrtle Beach chapter of the Lowcountry Food Bank. The box is still there, arriving the first week in December or so, when Mickey gets to town.  “Across the country, 1 out of every 7 people needs a food bank to get the extra food that they’re missing,” she says. “That’s a lot of people.”  Mickey decided to do more. She began a small craft show in the hotel, held every December. Instead of asking people to pay money to be in the show, the vendors bring food donations for the Food Bank, and attendees bring food donations as their admission ticket.  “There had also been a small craft show at another hotel that I participated in as a vendor for a couple of years,” Mickey says. “When the hotel canceled it, I decided that I would start my own to benefit the Food Bank. I didn’t know anybody, but asked around and was referred to the Rec Center in the Market Common.”  Because it was a non-profit event and Mickey was asking for the space for free, she contacted the town supervisor for assistance, asking the city to co-sponsor the event with her. She was approved almost immediately. She began advertising for vendors, and at the first show she secured sixty-five crafters.  “After the first fair, the Rec Center gained the notice of people who had never known it was there,” she says. “People began booking the space to host their own private parties, weddings, and functions. Within two years, the rec center was open full time. I was so pleased that they benefited from the craft fair being there because they were so generous in supporting our cause, donating their space, printing all our flyers, and even donating free coffee.”  Mickey Davis, 81, is the woman-power behind the fair. She identified a need in our community, and garnered vendors and attendees to get involved to help feed the hungry, while having a great time. — Photo Mickey Davis The craft fair has grown exponentially with each passing year, as more and more people turned up, eager to participate in the cause.  “The second year we got two rooms,” says Mickey. “And last year we had the entire building with 105 vendors. Each year we ask for food donations from the vendors who participate and of the people who attend. We also collect money.”  Mickey asks people to bake or bring food for attendees to enjoy as they peruse the fair. The snacks are available for a donation; the monies are given to the Food Bank as well.  Last year’s craft fair drew over 1,500 people who donated 5,492 pounds of food and $2,000 for the Food Bank.  “On the fifth annual, we also collected pet food,” Mickey says, “because we found out that if people have pets, they will share their food with them so the pets don’t starve. And that attracted all the pet lovers to us.”  Mickey is continuously touched by the generosity of the people she meets in helping to support this cause.  “I was in my hotel and met a woman who was there on vacation. When I told her about what I was doing, she went out and purchased $300 worth of food, and then sent us a check for $500 when she returned home. ‘Because it’s for a great cause,’ she said.”  “We find the people here are so friendly and so nice, and we have so much fun when we’re here and enjoy it so much, we just want to give back to this community,” Mickey says of her work. “It’s a wonderful feeling to be able to help people and be able to get the community involved to help. Everybody likes to participate because it’s a feel-good kind of thing.”  Mickey is eighty-one years old, and now that the event is established and going strong, felt that it was time to enlist the assistance of a younger generation in making the fair happen each year.  Nancy and Alex Smith, residents of Myrtle Beach, have taken over the running of the event. Mickey will continue with the advertising, and they will coordinate the rest of the show.  These are the months when people think about giving back, and the first week in December is when you can expect to see the donation box in the lobby of Mickey’s hotel.  Mickey hosts the craft fair in February because the middle of winter is a time of year when donations are needed just as much but happen less. She hopes to see you there. And is taking applications now for vendors. The Myrtle Beach Sixth Annual Craft Fair Sunday, February 9, 2020 Robert Reed Recreation Center, 800 Gabreski Lane, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 Questions and vendor applications: the6thannualfoodbankcraftfair@gmail.com Oceans One Resort Craft Fair to support the Lowcountry Food Bank Second Saturday in December 102 South Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Wild Birds Unlimited

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Rich and Diane Duloft standing in their store

Bringing People and Nature Together by Melissa LaScaleia Walking into Wild Birds Unlimited in Surfside Beach, owned by Diane and Rich Duloft, is like stepping into a world of everything outdoor birds. The store is part of a franchise, but each shop is different because it expresses the uniqueness of the owner and reflects the natural environment in which it is located.  Diane’s and Rich’s store is what is called a core store— which means they carry food and basic equipment for birds as well as nature-inspired gifts. They conduct monthly seminars where people can learn about birds, including one for beginning birders— helping people to identify the key factors they should be looking at.  “First, you try to determine the size,” Diane explains. “Is it around the size of a sparrow and a robin, or a goose and a hawk? Next, you look for any colors and field markers to try to identify it. Then, where did you see the bird? Is it in the trees, swimming, on the ground? Birds have different habitats that they’re comfortable in, and sometimes seeing one in a particular place will help you narrow down your search more quickly.”  www.ebird.com is a website that helps budding birders identify new species quickly. It was developed by Cornell University which has a renowned ornithology department.  The website is organized according to bird size and color and is linked to your specific area. As you scroll through options, it will pop up a list of potential birds yours could be. When you say, ‘yes, that’s my bird,’ you’re directly participating in citizen science, because the information is reported to Cornell, which will use the information to conduct research and analysis of the bird populations in your area. The Audubon Society also has great online resources.     In addition to in-store seminars and education, Wild Birds Unlimited presents to all types of groups and gatherings: everything from garden clubs, to schools, church groups, and senior homes.  “Rich and I love to get out and talk to folks about nature and birds, because a lot of people don’t know what we’re about. We want to help people better understand the world around them— to enjoy nature and improve the world we’re in by not littering and leaving some green space.” Wild Birds Unlimited carries every product imaginable for birds and those who love them, including some whimsical bird houses made out of plastic milk jugs which are long-lived and better for the environment. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “We are huge supporters of native plants because they harbor insects and larvae that the birds eat. They are going to thrive in their natural habitat and cause everything to thrive around them because they are adapted to our temperatures and landscape and support the overall ecology of the area. We inform people as they begin to landscape their yard, because many don’t know. Take for example the Ginkgo tree. It is native to the Far East, and in South Carolina, harbors four types of bugs. Whereas the Live Oak Tree harbors over 500 different kinds of bugs and larvae.”  Diane and Rich both grew up in the upper Midwest and have lived in Connecticut, New York and Ohio over the course of their careers.  “My parents and grandparents were bird feeders,” Diane says. “My father was a conservationist and a sportsman too. We all enjoyed the outdoors and nature. But in my job, that was totally stripped away. I thought about moving back to Minneapolis to open a store, but my husband suggested we relocate here, where we already owned a condo. With this store, I feel like I’m returning to my roots, doing something I truly love.”  Wild Birds Unlimited offers every product imaginable for birds and bird-lovers. Diane carries bird seed that comes from an Amish farm in Ohio that has no fillers so it’s 100% edible for birds, and thus attracts more of them. For those who are opposed to sunflowers sprouting on their lawn, there are several blends that do not have any shells, preventing any weeds from appearing underneath the feeder. They have a variety of bird feeders– those that are branded with the Wild Birds Unlimited logo carry a lifetime guarantee and will be repaired if they are malfunctioning. Several are made of recycled milk jugs, which will last longer than wood and are good for the environment.  “We have hardware, like crook arms that are a much stronger quality than anything you could find in most big box stores,” Diane says. “All of our staff are avid bird watchers so everybody loves talking to our customers about birds and what’s going on in their yard.  “This is a relationship business. It’s not a transactional business where it’s hello and good bye. We enjoy our customers and hearing how much fun they have watching their backyard visitors. And, we truly are the bird feeding experts in the area.  “In addition to that, what we do is plain good old-fashioned customer service. We carry their products to the car for them. If we have a customer with physical challenges, we’ll help them with an installation. We find out what’s going on in the area, and share that with our customers. We’re personal.”  Wild Birds Unlimited is getting ready to start an online order system, where customers can place an order online and opt to have it delivered, or pick it up in the store. “We expect this to take place before Christmas,” Diane says. “This will provide an added level of service for customers short on time or who prefer home delivery.” At Diane’s and Rich’s store, they have a fantastic selection of birdbaths and houses which are of a much higher quality than anything you could buy in a big-box store. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Wild Birds Unlimited also stocks bird baths and bird bath de-icers; binoculars; birding books; outdoor benches; garden and patio accessories; misters and feeders for hummingbirds; squirrel resistant feeders; and high quality hardware systems that are customizable so that you can have multiple bird feeders on one piece. For the holidays, they will stock a lot more gifts, like candle-holders and winter-themed items.  … Read more

Humana With Jim Urban

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For Seniors For Medicare— With Integrity by Melissa LaScaleia Jim Urban was born and raised in the small town of Augusta, Kentucky. After graduating high school, he joined the U.S. Army and served for nine years as an active duty member.  “I beat on the Berlin Wall when it came down in 1989,” he says. “But my proudest military moment was when I was assigned to be a part of the famous 25th Infantry Division. For a small-town kid from Kentucky, it was a big deal to be associated with them.”     After the military, Jim owned and managed a grocery store in Ohio. After fifteen years, he wanted to move to a Southern climate, and relocated to Myrtle Beach in 2005.  “It was the same year that the Medicare prescription drug plan was introduced, and I was looking for something new,” he says. “I decided to get my insurance license and work with medicare clients, and eventually found my way to Humana.  “As I was exploring this new career, I was exposed to a variety of health care companies, but was continuously so impressed by the sound ethical principles of Humana in a variety of situations, that I decided to work for them.”    Jim lives in the Market Common, and conducts local seminars as well as home visits to help simplify and explain available Medicare options to seniors, providing them with the knowledge they need to make an educated decision. He works exclusively with Medicare clients, and exclusively with seniors.  “Although Medicare is confusing, I can simplify the process for them,” he says. “Humana is one of the only companies I’m aware of that pays its representatives a salary, so we’re not dependent on making a sale for our livelihood. There’s not many places seniors can receive guidance from someone who isn’t out for personal gain. It’s one of the many things I appreciate about the company.  “What I say to folks all the time and I really mean it, is that in my experience, Humana always does what’s in the best interest of the senior. I really can’t say enough good things about their integrity. I hear testimonies every day from my clients about the positive things Humana is doing for them. I have a lady who is a client of mine and has been to two of my seminars, who just called and said she’s coming back again because she just loves to hear the information.  “I have multiple clients who return to my seminars, and I swear the new people are going to think I pay them because they are so eager to share about the great service they’re receiving and what Humana provides them.”  Humana, Inc. is a health care company that offers a wide range of insurance products. They offer health and wellness services that incorporate an integrated approach to lifelong well-being. The company was founded by David A. Jones Sr., Wendell Cherry in 1961, and is headquartered in Louisville, KY. Humana’s successful history in care delivery and health plan administration is helping them create a new kind of integrated care with the power to improve health and well-being and lower costs. To accomplish that, Humana supports physicians and other health care professionals as they work to deliver the right care in the right place for their patients. Their range of clinical capabilities, resources and tools — such as in-home care, behavioral health, pharmacy services, data analytics and wellness solutions — combine to produce a simplified experience that makes health care easier to navigate and more effective. Humana has served Medicare beneficiaries for more than three decades, with over 8.4 million Medicare members in all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico, as of June 30, 2019.  Humana is one of South Carolina’s leading Medicare health benefits companies with more than 125,000 Medicare members statewide.  Jim Urban (front) hosts live music events in his home, where he met sisters Mia Bee (left) and Alisa Daisy (right) years ago. The girls have since adopted him as their uncle, and he’s spent time with their entire family. The three played music together at the Grand Strand Senior Center, entertaining Myrtle Beach Retirees. — Photo Jim Urban Humana has their own mail-order pharmacy, and provides Tier Level 1 and 2 prescription drugs at $0 co-pay. They also provide over-the-counter health and wellness products through mail order for items such as Band-Aids and aspirins, to a Fitbit which monitors your steps.  “On a daily basis, I’ll say to people that the best health care is to care for your health,” Jim says. “As part of our Silver Sneaker Fitness Program, you can go to select gyms with no membership fee. And we reward our customers for completing preventative health screenings and staying active.”  Humana offers several $0 premium plans with benefits that provide coverage for not only the medical needs of their members, but also benefits to improve their members’ overall well-being such as dental, vision, hearing, and fitness.  They also offer plans that will reduce the premium most Medicare beneficiaries pay for their Medicare Part B coverage. For individuals who have both Medicare and Medicaid, they offer plans that provide coverage for eyeglasses, $0 cost hearing aids, $300 per quarter for over-the-counter items, and up to $3,000 in dental benefits, including dentures, when the member receives care from a Humana Dental provider. “I enjoy what I do,” Jim says. “I have a passion to help the senior citizens of the greatest generation.”  Jim helps not only during the day, but also on his off-hours. Every month he takes a birthday cake to the Grand Strand Senior Center and calls bingo.  “I really love it,” he says. “I like hanging out with seniors because they’re straightforward.”   In 2010, he became involved with the non-profit organization, Honor Flight. Their purpose is to take WWII veterans to Washington, D.C. to see the WWII memorial. Jim volunteered to go on two separate occasions and escorted a privately chartered plane of eighty and ninety-year-olds for the trip.  “The second time we went, I mentioned it to some of my Humana clients who were WWII … Read more

Q&A with Mickey Davis

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Mickey Davis

A Fused-Glass Artist Celebrates 58 Years of Marriage by Melissa LaScaleia Introduce me to your family.  I live with my husband, Norton Davis. We have been married for fifty-eight years. We have six children— three together, and three from his first marriage. We have twelve grandchildren, located all over the country and world.  Where are all the places you came from? Where do you live now? I grew up in Brooklyn and then lived in New Jersey. Now I live in Vermont, and stay in Myrtle Beach four months out of the year, in Ocean’s One Resort. Why did you pick Myrtle Beach to live in part of the year? It was accidental. We were visiting friends in Florida, when our friend got sick. We had to find something to do for a week, and people at work had told me that Myrtle Beach was fun, so we decided to give it a try. We decided we liked it best of all the places we saw. What is your favorite place in Myrtle Beach? My favorite place is the library, I read a lot. The 91-degree pool where we stay doesn’t hurt either.  What do you like the most about the months you spend down here? The camaraderie of the people who return here. The community is very welcoming and friendly. The Southern hospitality is very nice. And the weather is 40 degrees warmer on a daily basis than Vermont.  How has your lifestyle changed since coming down here? I’m busier than ever. I take courses down here. I’m a fused glass artist, and I sell my works at a craft fair I used to run.  What new activities do you engage in when you come down? Years ago, I ran a small craft fair to collect donations for the Food Bank. I also organized a craft show, then decided to put the two things together. The city of Myrtle Beach co-sponsored it with me, and I ran it for five years at the Robert Reed Recreation Center in the Market Common. This year, I’ve passed the baton to Nancy and Alex Smith. I will do the advertising and help wherever else I’m needed.  I also take advantage of as many of the live shows as I can at the high schools and the Myrtle Beach Mall. The actors see the guests at the end of the show. It’s very gracious, nice, and up-close-and-personal.  Do you find people here friendlier or more at ease? I find that they’re very friendly, and no one really cares about your past. Everyone is focused on the present and what you’re doing now. Everyone is on equal footing here. No one says things like, “He only drove a bus, and I have a PhD.” It’s really nice.  What are your favorite things to do here?  The restaurants are quite good. There are about 900 to choose from. Brookgreen Gardens is a wonderful place. The lake in the Market Common with the walk around, and Savannah’s Playground are both lovely.

The MBAF Base Throughout the 20th Century, Part 4

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The Invaluable Contributions of the 354th by Melissa LaScaleia Continued from last month. Click here to read Part 3.  During the 1950s and beyond, the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base saw considerable action in Eastern countries and other parts of the world, including Europe, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam.  During these years, an estimated 3,500 civilian and military personnel were involved in keeping the military base at the ready to meet the needs of our country.  The 342nd Fighter-Day Wing was the wing that was initially activated at Myrtle Beach, then soon thereafter, on November 19, 1956, was redesignated the 354th Fighter-Day Wing. At the time of its initial activation, there were eighty-four officers, three warrant officers, and 911 enlisted men.  The squadrons of the 342nd were redesignated the 353rd, the 355th, and the 356th Fighter-Day Squadrons respectively.  On September 25, 1957, a fourth squadron, the 352nd Fighter-Day Squadron, was added onto the 354th Fighter-Day Wing. It was comprised of F-100 aircraft.  Each squadron had aircraft tails that were painted different colors indicating the squadron to which it belonged. The 353rd was red; the 355th was blue; the 356th was green; and the 352nd was yellow.  On July 8, 1958, the 354th Fighter-Day Wing was renamed the 354th Tactical Fighter Wing. The support elements for the newly designated wing were called the 354th Air Base Group. Beginning the year it was activated, the wing trained heavily for fighter-bomber missions overseas. And from 1958 through April 1966, at least one of its squadrons was always deployed overseas.  In the early years, the 354th acted mainly as support for NATO assignments, and squadrons with F-100 aircraft were often deployed to Europe. By 1958, after the Lebanon Crisis, squadrons rotated consistently between air force bases in Turkey and Aviano, Italy as part of NATO.  The first deployment the 354th made was to Aviano, Italy. On July 15, 1958, fighters went for 100 days to stand by in the event of an uprising over the presidential overthrow in Lebanon.  On September 4, 1961, eighteen F-100 aircraft from Myrtle Beach Air Force Base deployed to Hahn Air Base in West Germany, to act as support for the crisis that ensued as the Soviets were constructing the Berlin Wall.  The 354th Tactical Fighter Wing also deployed to Alaska for the months of February and March in 1963, due to that base’s proximity to the Soviet Union.  In 1962, part of all four squadrons were deployed to McCoy Air Force Base in Florida as a result of the Cuban Missile Crisis.  In 1965, the Dominican Republic crisis caused more than 400 people and eighteen F-100s to deploy to nearby Ramey Air Force Base in Puerto Rico and San Isidro Air Force Base in the Dominican Republic.  But it wasn’t until 1965, during the Vietnam Conflict, that the resources and capabilities of the 354th were drawn upon and utilized to their max. The deployments to Vietnam began in July.  During this time, it was customary for squadrons to be removed from their home bases and attached indefinitely to another wing at a foreign airbase overseas to collectively support the war effort.  The 356th Squadron was deployed to Misawa Air Base in Japan on March 16, and attached to the 39th Air Division. The 353rd Squadron was deployed to Spain at Torrejon Air Force Base on April 27, 1966. It was reassigned to the 401st Tactical Fighter Wing, a permanent reassignment.  The 352nd Squadron was deployed to South Vietnam, and permanently reassigned to the 366th Tactical Fighter Wing at Phan Rang Air Base on August 15, 1966. The 355th Squadron was deployed to Phu Cat Air Base, also in South Vietnam, on February 3, 1968. The entire wing, now with no fighter squadrons left, was reassigned to Kunsan Air Base in South Korea, on July 1, 1968.  The Wing’s initial job was to support two F-100C Air National Guard fighter squadrons which were replacing the regular units that had been deployed for Operation Combat Fox.  This operation was the United State’s response to the crisis that ensued from the attack and seizure of the USS Pueblo by the North Korean forces on January 23, 1968. The Pueblo was an environmental research ship run by eighty-three crewmen that was linked with Navy intelligence. To be continued. Click here to read Part 5. 

American Red Cross and Your Financial Contribution

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by Melissa LaScaleia Most people know that American Red Cross relies on donations from the public to run their services and programs, but did you know how vital this financial support truly is, or how the funds are allocated?  Red Cross prides themselves on being transparent with their financial information. People can visit www.charitynavigator.com to see a full disclosure of Red Cross’s as well as other non-profit organizations’ finances. When there is a big disaster, like Hurricane Florence, ninety-one cents of every dollar that is raised for Red Cross is spent directly on disaster relief.     “That financial allocation is something we are proud of,” says Amy Brauner, the executive director of the Eastern SC Chapter of the American Red Cross. “We have volunteers who help us keep our costs low, because disasters are expensive. “To run a shelter for one night, it costs an average of $5,000. During Hurricane Florence, we had shelters open for weeks.” Those staying in the shelters receive cots, blankets, comfort kits, and three meals a day. Volunteers make sure that the environment is as comfortable as possible for those staying there. “During a big disaster, we need to get shelters open quickly and supplies ready to go,” Amy says. “The donations that people give us every day are what enable us to be prepared for any type of disaster. A lot of people think, ‘I’ll give when there’s a big disaster.’ But the reason why we’re able to amp up very quickly is because the funds are there in advance— whether it’s money to support a fire victim, or cots and meals for a shelter on short notice. In this state where there are house fires daily, we are giving aid daily.”  After a fire, financial assistance helps families with their immediate needs. On average, the Red Cross and its volunteers respond to six home fires a day in South Carolina— so the need for donations is constant. The Red Cross will also provide lodging assistance to families who need a place to stay after a fire. Red Cross honors donor intent, which means if you donate in South Carolina, your money will stay in SC. And every few months, they release information to the public to show how much they raised and where it is going.  Red Cross is still helping with recovery assistance for victims of Hurricane Florence— a disaster which struck in September 2018. In addition to giving immediate aid, they also grant money to people whose homes suffered major damage to help them begin to rebuild.  “There’s a lot of attention on funding a disaster when you’re right in the middle of it,” Amy says. “But the aftermath requires a lot of funding too.”     The long-term recovery process for Hurricane Florence includes providing recovery grants. Red Cross partners with several organizations in South Carolina. The Coastal Community Foundation is one such group.  Whether it’s handing out a specific dollar amount to individuals, or whether the donations are city or county based, Red Cross will work with other organizations to see what people’s needs are and help.    “There is a woman who, after Florence, needed to replace her roof; she received funding from Red Cross to begin the repair, but she is still rebuilding her house and we are assisting her to secure further funding,” Amy says. FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, is one of Red Cross’s federal partners that conducts damage assessment. If people don’t qualify for a grant through FEMA and still need help, Red Cross will connect them with the Salvation Army or The United Way. The groups that the Red Cross partners with are specific for each disaster. “We’re there to help figure out what their problem is and who can help,” Amy says. “It really does take a village to get people through disasters like this.” To donate to American Red Cross please visit www.redcross.org/donate. You can also text the word “red cross” to 90999 which will give a $10 donation.  Your money will go to help prevent and alleviate human suffering.

CresCom Bank Myrtle Beach

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Have A Nice Bank by Melissa LaScaleia CresCom Bank is the second largest community bank in the Carolinas. They operate in seven of the twenty-five fastest growing markets in the Southeastern United States; have sixty-two branch locations; and retain $3.9 billion in assets.  CresCom came into being in 2012, when the bank’s parent holding company, Carolina Financial Corporation, merged the names and logos of Crescent Bank in Myrtle Beach and Community First Bank in Charleston.  Now, CresCom Bank has eight locations on the Grand Strand. The Socastee branch, their newest location, was opened in response to requests from their customers, and is only one mile away from the Market Common. “We are a community bank with a commitment to offering personalized services. We focus on building lifelong relationships one customer at a time,” says Helen Peters, manager for the Socastee branch location.  “Most of the staff at this branch have been in banking for more than twenty years. We get a lot of compliments from our customers about how much they like coming to our office because we treat them like one of the family.”  Helen Peters, branch manager at the Socastee location. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Helen has had a career in banking for thirty-four years. She came on board with CresCom six years ago, and has been the Socastee branch manager for the past five.  “I’ve worked for both big-box and community banks but I’ve always liked the community bank better because we go out of our way to build those relationships with our customers,” she says. “We get to know them and their families, and treat them more like they are our family rather than just a number walking through the door.”  CresCom supports our armed forces, and is the only bank in the area that offers a special account for veterans.  Helen is involved with the local Grand Strand chapter of MOAA, a national nonprofit organization which gives back to veterans financially, as well as sponsoring college scholarships for the local high school students in ROTC.  She helps with their annual golf tournament to raise money to provide housing and service dogs for local veterans in need. The funds also support The Veteran Welcome Home Center, as well as the construction of a memorial in the Market Common.  “We are proud to support both our veterans and MOAA,” Helen says.  CresCom is a community bank that offers everything a corporate bank does as well as placing a value on creating lifelong relationships with each customer. They also place a premium on community service. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “As a bank,” she adds, “we offer everything under one roof to fit anyone’s needs— from personal banking, to business banking, to mortgages and investment services. We have drive-up ATMs at every location with an after-hours depository, and online and mobile banking available 24/7. We’re big enough to deliver anything that big corporate banks do, but small enough to care about our customers and the time we spend with them.”  CresCom takes relationship-building beyond their bank walls, supporting their team members to help out in the community, and working with them every step of the way to provide the resources they need to make a lasting difference.  “All of the branch managers get involved with the community in a number of different ways on things that we take to heart,” Helen adds.  For Helen, that’s a number of activities: the main one is helping the public schools in Horry County. She is a member of the Socastee High School Athletic Association board which assists with all the high school sports teams in any capacity, including fundraising.  And she is on the School Improvement Board for the elementary school. The board is comprised of teachers, business leaders, and parents, who all work with the school to make improvements in education.  Nikki Klapp, CresCom’s marketing director, says, “We recognize that our job is to help our community. The bank charges our team members to find what they’re passionate about, and Helen is passionate about helping the local schools.”  “I also do a lot with the American Cancer Society,” Helen says. “I’m involved with the Relay For Life fundraiser in the Market Common. It’s one of the causes that’s near and dear to my heart because cancer affects so many people every day. All of us know someone who has been or is affected by it.” CresCom Bank  4506 Socastee Blvd., Myrtle Beach, SC 29588 M-Th 8:30am- 5pm; Fr 8:30am-6pm 843-429-2501 www.haveanicebank.com Facebook @ CresCom Bank

Window Genie of Myrtle Beach

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We Clean Windows and a Whole Lot More by Melissa LaScaleia Window Genie of Myrtle Beach specializes in window cleaning, window tinting, pressure washing, roof cleaning, gutter cleaning and more for their residential and commercial clients as well as condo associations.  “We’re not perfect, but we try to be,” says Tom Washer, the owner of the franchise. “Our priorities are to have respect for the customers, respect for each other, and to provide a quality service at a premium price.”  Tom is a veteran of the United States Air Force. He joined when he was seventeen years old and served for four-and-a-half years in Arizona, Texas, Panama, and Oklahoma City.  During his time in the military, he gained a lot of knowledge working in the maintenance analysis division. He then spent thirty-five years of his civilian life working in sales and management for consumer products, mainly in Massachusetts.  Being tired of the snow and cold weather, and interested in joining a franchise brand, he and his wife relocated to Myrtle Beach five years ago.  Now, instead of shoveling snow off his roof, he’s helping his customers in Myrtle Beach to clean algae off theirs, as Window Genie also specializes in roof cleaning.     “Algae occurs on a ten-year cycle, growing on a roof and eating the limestone,” Tom says. “If you don’t clean it off, it reduces the life of your roof by 10%. Coastal areas are more susceptible. If you’re selling your home, having algae on the roof can be a big deterrent because it looks dirty and people may think that it needs to be replaced.” “Our first priorities are to have respect for the customers, respect for each other, and to provide a quality service at a premium price,” says Thomas. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Window Genie offers a free onsite consultation to assess your home for what it needs before conducting any work.  “I’ll survey your home for anything that needs to be repaired or could cause a problem down the road, regardless of whether we offer that service or not,” Tom says. “That way, we can best serve the customer. If I don’t perform the service, I can refer you to someone who can take care of it. Window Genie is part of the Neighborly family of brands, with sister companies that offer everything from painting, to plumbing, electrical work, appliance repair and more.”  In addition to cleaning, Window Genie also installs window film.     “As a homeowner, you want to think about: how secure is my home, and how heat-regulated is it,” Tom says.  Window film comes in a variety of styles depending on your needs. They are made to reduce the heat gain from the sun; reduce glare; limit visibility for greater privacy; to enhance security, safeguarding windows and doors against a storm or a break in; and for decoration.  “If you have a room in your home that is too hot to sit in during midday, we can correct that,” Tom says. “Also, if there is a glare on your television or computer screens, film can help with that. If your neighbors are looking into your windows and can see into your bathroom, we can correct that. If you look outside your window and see the side of your neighbor’s house, we can correct that so you’re looking at something nice. If you have windows that may not hold up because of strong winds, then we can correct that too.”  “The best part of what we do is making a difference,” Tom says. And people can find their cheery and colorful work truck driving along the Grand Strand doing just that. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Tom uses protective window films by SunTek, a leading brand of window films manufactured by Eastman Chemical, and decorative ones by Solyx.  Window Genie is part of Neighborly Brands which represents thirteen brands across the country; there are many franchises in Myrtle Beach which fall under their umbrella.     Tom runs the company himself, managing everything from advertising to marketing to human resources, and has between six to eight workers helping him. Recently, his niece, Bethanne, has evolved into the office manager.  “The best part of what we do is making a difference,” Tom says. “We work with a lot of realtors and have helped to sell many homes. Sometimes a home will sit for six months, and then I’ll get a call from a realtor to clean the home or the roof and it will sell in two weeks. It can really make a difference when a home is cleaned properly.”  Tom appreciates making a difference and enjoys giving back to the community as well. He has partnered with Creekfront Salkehatchie which is a national summer camp program for children with fifty locations across South Carolina, including Murrells Inlet. The children help in the building and repair of homes for local people in need, helping them to stay safe, warm, and dry.  Window Genie also manufactures its own brand of ammonia-free glass cleaner. Whenever you buy glass cleaner from Tom, he donates 100% of the proceeds to this local camp for the children and their mission. Now when you keep your windows clean you can know that you helped support children learning new skills, as well as recovering families. Window Genie of Myrtle Beach 4700 Northgate Blvd, Unit B, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 843-691-0100 www.windowgenieofmyrtlebeach.com  Facebook @Window Genie of Myrtle Beach

Change Lives One Person at a Time

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Fundraise and Volunteer With United Outreach Ministries by Melissa LaScaleia Off of Highway 501 at River Oaks Drive and just off of the Intracoastal Waterway close to Seaboard Street, lies United Outreach Ministries Thrift Store 501(c)(3)— a hidden gem of a second-hand store with a big-hearted mission, that just opened in January 2019.  As the holidays approach, people often look to those less fortunate than themselves to offer whatever assistance they can in a spirit of kindness. United Outreach Ministries shares in this mission, and invites volunteers now to help them meet their fundraising goals and/or volunteer in their store, and thereby make a lasting difference in the lives of those in our community who are less fortunate than others.  United Outreach Ministries is a thrift store but with a twist— all of the proceeds are used to purchase much needed hygiene products for the homeless, and everyone who participates with the organization, from the founder to those who fold the clothes, are volunteers.  The concept is the brainchild of Alan Marlow, who grew up in Powell, Tennessee, where the community was divided between those who had and those who didn’t. He remembers an abandoned building on the other side of the railroad tracks in town, which he knew, at the age of eight, housed a family or two. “There were so many kids in school that had nothing,” he says. “And I saw how people truly struggled, and how some just couldn’t do it. There were kids who came to school literally in rags. And it was incredibly sad.”  The disparity made a big impression on Alan. But the biggest impression was to come later, when one of his relatives became too friendly with an unhealthy crowd and ended up homeless.  “She was in nursing school and made an awful choice and just couldn’t get out,” he says of the situation. In 2017, when Alan and his wife retired to Myrtle Beach, the long idle days began to make him restless, and his past experiences inspired him to devote his time and energy to helping those in our community who are homeless.      At United Outreach Ministries, there are a variety of ways in which everyone can help: with a financial donation; a donation of hygiene products; fundraising; or volunteering in the store. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “Homeless people don’t get the hygiene products they need, like toothpaste or deodorant, either because they don’t have the money, or because SNAP, the government food funding program, doesn’t cover these products,” he says.  “We want homeless people to get out of the situation they’re in, to gain employment. But how possible is that without proper hygiene? It’s something most people don’t think of as a priority when thinking about homeless people, but it’s a necessity. Especially psychologically, it boosts their morale and confidence, so they are more active and productive. If you are unable to even meet your basic hygiene needs, how likely are you to be able to be inspired to gain employment?”  “It’s been an eye-opening experience for me to hear people’s stories,” Alan continues. “Everybody has a story and it’s not what people think. Some people have been laid off from a job. That’s why we’re really trying to help them get back on track and back into the community.”  One of Alan’s goals is to work with the school system to provide a monthly hygiene pack for children in need.     “There are a lot of children who are impoverished as well and need support, but so many too, who are in need not only of food, but also just a shower and basic hygiene products,” he says. “And that will help to boost their self-esteem and help them to feel better about themselves.  “Some people just don’t have the bare basics to survive. If you are so disadvantaged and someone is not willing to help, you’re always going to be stuck where you are. There’s no climbing out. If you don’t have money, then you’re shunned and nobody wants to be around you.  “There’s not a whole lot you can do to help everybody. You can’t save the world, but if you can help a few, that’s something.”  In Tennessee, Alan had friends from church who managed thrift stores, so he was familiar with the concept. He established United Ministries Thrift Store as a nonprofit, so that he could maximize the amount of financial assistance that would be available to purchase supplies for the homeless. The more he sells, the more hygiene products for the homeless he is able to provide.  “I’ve been to a couple of thrift stores in this area and they don’t have the same level of quality that we have,” Alan says. “I feel we are blessed with the quality of goods that we receive, but I want the community to know that we always need more donations, and if you’re cleaning out the closets in your home, we hope you’ll choose to donate to us.”  Alan is grateful to receive such high quality donations. His store is known in the community as the place to go to score some great finds, and help the homeless too. Every dollar spent goes towards the purchase and distribution of hygiene products for the homeless. — Photo Meganpixels Parker United Outreach Ministries carries a wide variety of products for sale: clothing, furniture, books, toys, housewares, appliances, pictures and electronics— some that are gently used, and some that are brand new with the tags still attached.  They receive new furniture donations from a local company’s showroom floor every 5-6 weeks, as well as new display mattresses. Alan prices the furniture at less than half of what it would sell for in the store.  “Often people come and are expecting yard sale prices, but they’re missing the point of what we do,” he says.  Alan is selective in the clothing he puts out to ensure that he has high quality garments that people will want to buy and wear.  “Our customers come from all walks of life, whether they’re on a budget or more affluent,” he says. “There’s … Read more

The Coastal Insider

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Two of our avid readers sitting on a bench enjoying our community publication

A Community Publication That’s Here For You by Melissa LaScaleia The Coastal Insider is the only true community publication that covers the entire Grand Strand area from Pawleys Island in the South to Little River in the North. Many people think that we’re a newspaper, but we aren’t. So what are we really? And why? Simply put, we are a monthly publication that serves this market by bringing our readers engaging content about the people, events, and businesses that are relevant to the Grand Strand.  “The need for this was apparent after living here for forty-one years,” says co-founder of the Coastal Insider, Jim Parker. “I’ve seen how Myrtle Beach has grown since I was eighteen, and as it has changed, the needs of the community have changed as well.  “It was clear to me that there was a disconnect between the local residents, the visitors to the area, the local businesses, and the individual communities along the Grand Strand— all the parts of our community that make it what it is. And it seemed they should be better integrated.”  Jim set out with his business partner John Jobson to brainstorm the ways in which they could bridge the gap to connect the pieces and create a stronger sense of unification as well as knowledge about what is where in our area and when.  They eventually hit upon the idea of a publication that would provide information that was relevant to locals, visitors, and prospective residents— information about the services that local businesses provide; real estate information; restaurant happy hours and live music listings; festivals; and articles that captured the stories and spirit of the people who live, work, and visit here.  “We never wanted to be a newspaper,” Jim says. “To me that’s entirely different from what we do. Our intention was never to broadcast local news. It was always to build a stronger sense of community, to highlight the individual voices and unique aspects of all of the communities that make up the Grand Strand, and to be a place where those communities can market themselves and show what they have to offer residents, visitors, and potential residents.”    In a world where things are easily replaced, the Insider, perhaps because it feels hefty in your hands, perhaps because of the colors, or the antics of the little white dog within, has a remarkably long shelf-life. We hear how people save it to reference the happy hour later, or a service they intend to try. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “If you’re trying to build a stronger community, then reliability and consistency are key, as well as having a strong, clear message so people know what to expect, and come to trust you to provide the sort of information that they’re looking for,” he continues.  “We’re consistent with our message so our readers can understand more about the community they live in. And we always sought, by our design and our content, to reflect those values.”  Consequently, the Insider has a lighthearted, informative tone. It introduces people with sections like “Meet Your Neighbor” and “Meet Your Local Veteran;” tells about our roots with the “History” section; and delights with the antics of Charlie the dog from “Charlie’s Corner.”  Every section of the publication has been carefully thought out, to make it fun and engaging, to add value and establish continuity.  We deliver a completely in-color publication printed on 45 lb top-quality paper to residents and businesses along the Grand Strand every month. We also have an online presence.  “We’ve aimed to be a feel-good source of information that’s reflective of what community is,” Jim says. “We wanted to be something families could read together at the dinner table without fear of exposing their children to it. To me that’s what community is— it’s feel-good, and it’s inclusive. And that’s why we’re full color and why we focus on print: because it’s more fun to read, it brings people together, it puts a smile on your face, it engages you.”  Jim and John began by focusing on the Market Common area, the newest subset to the Grand Strand.  But the intention was always to connect that area to all the rest of the areas along the Grand Strand— a vision which they began to implement with our name change to the Coastal Insider in 2018, and continue to implement by the addition, beginning nine months ago, of our community sections.  Since that time, we’ve added additional communities, and this month are welcoming the inception of the Pawleys Island community page.  The community pages are separated into several components: there’s a main article that highlights what that particular community would like to showcase about themselves for the month; a schedule of their events; and a separate real estate summary which lists the total volume of sales for that month; the average sales price for the area that month; and the average number of days on the market.  “If you own real estate, you want to be able to see how your investment is doing,” Jim says. “If you’re looking to purchase in the area, you want to know what the market is doing.”  Over $3 billion dollars in residential sales transferred in Horry County last year. One half of those sales was from local residents, and the other half was from out of state buyers.  A community publication that provides the range and depth of information that we do is important to a geographic area like ours, because it speaks to the interests and needs of both sides of that $3 billion dollar demographic that directly feeds our local economy.  The Insider team in a candid moment. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Our publication is readily available at major shopping centers all over the Grand Strand, and our direct home delivery has secured us a readership of over 100,000. Our ease of access to both visitors and locals means that those who list their homes with us gain exposure to the community of people who are moving in as well as already here and transferring property. “5,000-6,000 words are … Read more

Dashing Through the Glow in North Myrtle Beach in 2019

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by the City of North Myrtle Beach The Great Christmas Light Show The North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex will become home to the Great Christmas Light Show this holiday season. Opening to the public on Monday, November 25, the drive-through light show will feature almost three million lights festively displayed along a two mile drive throughout the Park & Sports Complex.  More than 500 magical light displays, some up to fifty-five feet wide, have been custom made for the event. Visitors will experience forty enchanting animated figures and holiday scenes where the lights will come to life. After traveling through the light show, everyone is invited to park their cars and visit Santa’s Village where they can enjoy hot chocolate and s’mores; get an up-close look at the lights on the Santa Express Train Ride; visit the petting zoo; meet with Santa; and more.  The Great Christmas Light Show costs $15 per car. Admission into Santa’s Village is included with your ticket, and parking is free. Snacks and activities in the Village will be available for purchase separately. The light show will operate nightly from 5:30pm – 9pm.  They are closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 28; and Christmas Day, December 25. Santa’s Village will be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from November 29 until December 15. Starting December 19, it is open nightly (closed on November 28 and December 25). Admission is $15 per vehicle for up to 15 guests; $30 for 16 – 30 guests; and $60 for 31+ guests. Train rides, inflatables and concessions are not included in the admission price.  For more information please visit www.GreatChristmasLightShow.com or call 843-281-3805.  The Great Christmas Light Show is located at NMB Park & Sports Complex, 150 Citizens Circle, Little River, SC 29566. Dashing Through the Glow Be one of the first to see the lights during this two mile non-competitive walk/run through the Great Christmas Light Show. Dashing Through the Glow will be held November 22 with a 7pm start time. Sponsored by the NMB Aquatic & Fitness Center, this event has become a traditional way to kick off the holiday season. Adult (12 & older) registration is $20 and includes a medal and official bib. Youth (11 & under) registration is $10 and includes a kids medal and official bib. Children in strollers may participate free with a paying adult (no medal or bib awarded). Get in the spirit and wear your best holiday themed outfit. Prizes will be given for the best dressed individual and the best dressed family.  After the run, all participants and their families are invited to continue the holiday celebration in Santa’s Village.  Visit with Santa, drink hot chocolate, ride on the magical Santa Express train or take in the many new lights and attractions in Santa’s Village (additional charges apply for activities in the Christmas Village). For more information on events in North Myrtle Beach visit parks.nmb.us.

Ways to Support the Homeless in Myrtle Beach

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by Emily Smith In Myrtle Beach alone, roughly 24% of the population rests under the poverty line according to data collected by the Census Bureau in 2017. Earlier this year, information from the Eastern Carolina Homelessness Organization, or ECHO, estimated that there are over 1,000 homeless people in Myrtle Beach.  Wanting to share your blessings is understandable, and there are plenty of ways to offer help and spread kindness in our neck of the woods, from monetary donations to preparing meals.  The Community Kitchen of Myrtle Beach has been a nonprofit organization providing meals to the underprivileged and hungry population for over twenty-seven years. Located at 1411 Mr. Joe White Avenue, the kitchen is open Monday through Friday, plus holidays, to provide breakfast and lunch to anyone who needs a meal.  Every month, the organization updates their current needs and is always looking for more volunteers.Traditional Thanksgiving meals will be provided on November 28, but assistance is always needed, no matter what time of year it is. To learn more about the program and how to help, visit www.communitykitchenmb.org or call 843-444-9383. In downtown Conway, The Shepherd’s Table has served an increasing amount of hungry guests in need throughout the years. Nestled at the corner of Powell St. and Gamecock Ave, this nonprofit got its start in 2007, and has since supplied lunch and dinner to tens of thousands.  Beyond simply distributing food, The Shepherd’s Table has programs to put together weekend bags and personal hygiene kits. This is especially important during hurricane season and winter, and the team is always accepting donations and volunteers. Call 843-488-3663 for more information, or visit them online at www.shepherdstable.com. Though their headquarters is in Charleston, the Lowcountry Food Bank runs programs and drives up and down the coast. The organization has made it easy for individuals and businesses to host drives and fundraisers. Volunteers are needed not just for prepping and coordinating, but also for educational purposes and administrative support. Their local office is situated at 4716 Northgate Blvd in Myrtle Beach, and can be reached at 843-488-0341. Their website, www.lowcountryfoodbank.com, offers more information about what this nonprofit does and needs. For over thirty years, Churches Assisting People in Conway has been working to make sure no family or person is overlooked in times of need, particularly emergencies. Made up of over two dozen churches in the Grand Strand area, the union is able to pool resources and spread their reach. Even if you aren’t a member of the churches listed on www.capconway.com, there are still ways to be involved to support struggling members of our community. Their office is at 307 Wright Blvd, and the CAP phone number is 843-488-2277. These are just a few of the local organizations in our immediate surroundings. Larger, nationwide programs also function here, including but not limited to Meals on Wheels, the Salvation Army, and American Red Cross.  Although giving and gratitude are at the forefront of everyone’s mind this month, members of our community struggle each day throughout the year.  Whether you are willing to offer your time, money, or necessities, there are an abundance of ways to share your blessings and allow someone else to have the opportunity to give thanks.

The Second Annual PILBA Festival of Wreaths in Pawleys Island 2019

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by Troi Kaz The Pawleys Island Litchfield Business Association is hosting the Second Annual PILBA Festival of Wreaths to help disadvantaged residents of Georgetown County.  Area artists and designers are invited to create and donate holiday wreaths which will be auctioned off from November 20 through November 22. There are three ways to bid: online, silently, and live, at the exciting Wreath Fest Party, held on Friday, November 22 from 6-8pm.  All proceeds from the PILBA Festival of Wreaths will be donated to Good Friends, a non-profit organization which assists local individuals and families who have exhausted every other means of support. Those who will receive assistance are chosen by Georgetown County’s Department of Social Services and approved by the Good Friends Board of Directors. “We are so happy to be this year’s recipient of the funds raised at the Festival of Wreaths,” said Good Friends chairman, Anne Mountford. “The funds raised are used for a local individual or family’s one-time need including things like food, shelter, medical expenses, and transportation with a limit of up to $300 per recipient, per year.”  “The Pawleys Island Litchfield Business Association is delighted to host the Festival of Wreaths again this year, to not only help our local residents in need, but also to bolster the ‘Shop Small,’ and  ‘Shop Local’ initiatives in Pawleys Island and Litchfield, just in time for Christmas,” said Troi Kaz, vice president of PILBA and co-chairman of the event.  “We would be so grateful to have everyone in town participate and there are many ways to do so: create and donate a wreath, sponsor an artist, volunteer at the event, and especially, bid on the wreaths during the festival. It’s such a great local cause.”  Online bidding and the silent auction begin on Wednesday, November 20 at 10am, and continue until the live auction at the Wreath Fest Party on Friday evening. Winners of the online and silent auctions will be announced at the party. Wreaths will be displayed in the vacant space in the Sweetgrass Center at 11326 Ocean Hwy, across the street from Fresh Market. Admission to the Wreath Fest Party is free to PILBA Members and contributing artists. Tickets are $20 online or at the door and include two beverage tickets.  For more information, to submit a wreath, or to volunteer for the event, email joinpilba@gmail.com, or call Troi Kaz at 843-455-4523.

Emma’s Health Talk: Butter vs. Margarine, Part 1

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by Emma Ware Every controversy has two sides. This month’s topic, on which one is better for your health— butter or margarine— is no different, and comes with information supporting both sides. This article is formulated from the most current information available online to the general public. Information can also be found in bookstores, at the library, and in pamphlets at doctors offices, especially cardiologists.  I hope the aforementioned resources and this article will guide your own search for information that’s relevant to your specific needs, and help you decide which food is best for you.  My caution always is and still remains that you check with your doctor before making any changes to your health routine. News-Medical Life Science/Health, found on the web, wrote a comparison between butter and margarine dated from February 7, 2019.  In the article, they remind us that butter is a dairy product obtained after separating the cream from milk. It is made up of 80%-82% milk fat, 16-17% water with 1-2% of milk solids. It is available as salted, sweet, or reduced-fat. Butter also contains saturated fats, proteins, calcium and phosphorus, with some essential fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D and E.  Emma Ware. — Photo Meganpixels Parker On the other hand, margarine is prepared from liquid vegetable oils by the process of hydrogenation which saturates the fatty acids through the addition of hydrogen.  Hydrogenation alters the molecular structure of fatty acids so that trans fats may be formed, and results in the fat assuming a semi-solid state. This increases the shelf life and durability of the margarine and also make foods cooked with this fat crisper. The more solid the consistency of the margarine, the greater the percentage of trans fat. Both butter and margarine hold approximately the same percentage of fat—nearly 70-80%. They differ from each other in regard to their preparation, ingredients, flavor, nutritional value and type of fatty acids.  Stay tuned for part two of this article next month, which will continue to detail the differences between butter and margarine.  We’ll also discuss the differences between types of margarines. We’ll explore how butter and margarine varieties each contributes to a person’s cholesterol and the affects on health.  As always, I’m reminding you to consult with your doctor regarding any changes you make to your health regimen. Call with your comments at (843) 997-7037 or stop by the office at 2798-D Howard Ave in Market Common. Blessings, Emma Click here to read Part 2. 

Hidden Cemetery Receives TLC from Myrtle Beach

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by the City of Myrtle Beach Community volunteers joined Myrtle Beach city staff members recently at a little-known cemetery off Oak Street, adjacent to the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. It may not be visible from the street, but it pre-dates everything nearby.  The Neighborhood Services Department is leading the effort to maintain and restore the hidden cemetery, and hopefully, identify some of the unmarked graves. For that, local families will need to revisit their memories.  Local historians recall that the cemetery began when a few graves were relocated to Oak Street from the Withers Swash area in the mid-1930s. Currently, the oldest known grave dates back seventy-seven years.  The deed for the largely African-American cemetery was given to the city in 1992. In 2010, the city used ground-penetrating radar to survey the cemetery. Of the two hundred forty-three grave sites identified then, only 128 were marked with individual or family names. For the other 115, small granite markers were placed which read, “Known unto God.” The cemetery is still in use, although sparingly. A few modern burials have occurred, although many of the graves date to the 1960s and 1970s. They include a number of veterans from World Wars I and II, Korea and Vietnam. Chapter 30 of the Disabled American Veterans placed a marker at the cemetery entrance in 1986.  A concrete angel graces one of the burial sites, while artificial flowers keep company with others who are resting in peace. It’s amazing how quiet and peaceful the tree-filled cemetery is, so near busy 21st Avenue North.     Two dozen people converged on the cemetery one recent Saturday to rake away leaves and tidy up the grounds. The smaller, unnamed markers were uncovered, too. At least one family recalled where two of their loved ones were buried.   The restoration effort continues. We are calling on long-time residents and community members from the Booker T. Washington, Carrie Mae Johnson, Harlem, Racepath and Pine Island neighborhoods.  Do you have family photos of a burial service at the Oak Street cemetery? Funeral home memorabilia about a burial also would be helpful. If you have any information that may help, please contact Myrtle Beach’s Neighborhood Services Department at 843-918-1061.  This quiet corner of Myrtle Beach’s history is tucked away in the protective shadow of the Convention Center. The city’s goal is to bring its memory to the forefront again and honor some of the area’s earliest citizens.  

Talotta Contract Interiors

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Customers Return… Because of Our Service by Melissa LaScaleia The Talotta family opened the doors of their retail establishment, Talotta Contract Interiors, in Myrtle Beach in May 1981.  Driven by a sprit of innovation and a heritage of quality services, Talotta is the Grand Strand’s leading provider of finished commercial and office interiors. “We offer the best quality office furnishings and customer service anywhere,” says Frank Talotta, the owner. “That’s our mission.”  Talotta Contract Interiors is a purveyor of new and used, commercial and home office furniture and ergonomic products. They carry desks, chairs, file cabinets, book cases, storage cabinets, panel systems, cubicles, and much more.  They specialize in project management; space planning; interior design; local and national installation; relocation services; reconfiguration; moving services; and leasing. In addition, they can custom-craft your home office space, providing all you need to work from home.  “I got on a truck when I was thirteen years old delivering office furniture,” Frank remembers of how he got started in this industry. “I’ve been doing this now for forty-six years.” Frank is originally from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. His father died when he was seven years old, and his mother remarried to a man who worked in the furniture business.  After graduating from Coastal Carolina University, Frank played professional baseball with the Houston Astros. At the end of his contract, he returned to Myrtle Beach to help with the family business, and became the owner soon thereafter, in 1985.  “I enjoy Myrtle Beach, I went to college here,” Frank says. “And I wanted to bring some of my experiences with office furniture I had had as a kid to the area. I hoped that I could make a difference by helping people— in providing a service they needed so they could be a success in their business doing what they do.”  “I’ve always had a passion for helping people,” he adds. “There’s no project too small or too large for us. Over the past thirty-eight years, I’ve seen Myrtle Beach grow by leaps and bounds, and it’s been nice to be a part of it.”  Talotta Contract Interiors started out with three employees. As time has passed, they have grown to a staff of twelve who have talents ranging from interior design and architecture, to space planning, installations, and sales.    “I take pride in the fact that we have great employees,” Frank says. “The best things we offer our clients, the reasons why they return to us again and again, are because of the quality of our designs and installations, and our top notch service. Our design and installation specialists are the best in the country; and delivering that with unparalleled service is our number one priority.”  Talotta’s professional in-house interior designers utilize computer aided design (CAD) and drafting technology which enables them to work directly on architectural plans to create your furniture layout in 3D so you can see what it will look like. Frank’s staff have talents that range from interior design and architecture to space planning, installations, and sales. Pictured above, a few of the members from the installation team. “It helps us take your initial vision from concept to completion,” Frank says. “The DWG architectural file enables us to bypass the visit to a building to take measurements— it’s already to scale. We have the technology and specialized software and work closely with our customers to give them visuals of all available layouts that cover all the bases of what can be done in that space.”  As professional space planners, they can incorporate your existing furniture into your new design if you choose, and will also include that furniture in the architectural plan. Or they can outfit you in everything you need.  “Our commitment to offering the best products and services available is backed by our many partnerships with quality furniture manufacturers such as Knoll and Office Source,” Frank says. “Together these sources provide furniture solutions to serve clients large and small, and at many price points.”  Whether you are purchasing a small office setup for your home, developing a growing business, or looking to furnish an entire building, those in Myrtle Beach know that they can expect the same skilled and committed installation team, professionalism, level of dedicated service, and support staff from Talotta Contract Interiors. “This is the kind of total company support that we offer the Myrtle Beach community now and in the future, as your business grows and evolves,” says Frank. “And that’s important because there isn’t a big corporate community here— it’s more a conglomeration of small businesses, like car dealerships, banks, law offices, and construction, plumbing, and medical companies. They know that they can rely on us, and that we have a really nice selection to create beautiful and functional office spaces.”  Part of their commitment to functionality is their focus on ergonomic products. Talotta is the area’s number one source for ergonomic seating and sit and stand products. “We have a huge variety of chairs here in our showroom— we carry passive and totally ergonomic seating, those with adjustable side arms, lumbar supports, and front forward pitch selectors,” Frank says. “We encourage people to come in and test drive our office chairs. We are referred by chiropractors, and are beloved by customers who have back issues.”  In this day and age, Talotta often suggests sit and stand tables that people can incorporate into their office unobtrusively, which raise and lower electronically or with a lever, so people can take a reprieve from sitting all day. They can explain any of the features of the products they carry, and how they relieve back and neck pain. Talotta Contract Interiors can customize support for those with more specific needs, and they’ll meet anybody’s price point. “Either we visit the customer, or they come to see us so we understand how they’re working,” Frank says. “It could be a simple fix. They could just need a different height keyboard and mouse, or something that we can remedy with a small adjustment.  “We are truly the ergonomic seating experts in Myrtle Beach. From watching a person work, looking at their chair, … Read more

In Which Charlie Is Reminded of the Power of Gratitude

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Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of 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 month, Charlie finds a magic leaf and creates life-long memories.  November is here which means the days are shorter, and sometimes have a slight nip; the nights certainly do. Fall has found us, and summer, with its energy of exuberance, fun, and frivolity has departed to be replaced with the more somber tone that confirms: in nature, all things stay in balance.  Hey, I guess it’s a Newtonian Law of some sort— what goes up, must come down. And summer is certainly a season of up.  But I’ve always found that a little bit of sobriety carries with it a gentle peace and introspection which leads me gracefully to gratitude.  I love that cyclically the feelings engendered during this time match up with what we celebrate during the month of November— gratitude for our military veterans with Veterans Day on November 11, and gratitude in general, on Thanksgiving, November 28.  The other day, I was frolicking outside, reflecting on this time of year and everything that I’m grateful for. Even though we don’t really have a fall foliage down here, the leaves on many trees still fall. Suddenly, an especially large, oblong-shaped yellow leaf dislodged itself from a branch and came swirling down. For some reason the sight filled me with glee, and I went yipping around in a circle, leaping up to catch it as the leaf mimicked my circles above me in its downward descent.  Then a small gust of wind scooped it up and carried it some distance off. And having struck a fancy in my doggie-heart, away I went dashing after it. It slowly came to a rest in a pond, where I sat pondering for a moment, when a small turtle emerged from the water, raising the leaf up on its back as it did so.  “Well, hello there!” the turtle cried out to me. “Look at this beautiful leaf that has fallen on my back. It’s positively delightful.”  “I know,” I replied. “I was chasing it and it brought me to you. I was thinking of everything that I’m grateful for when I first noticed it, and felt so full of happiness, it lifted my spirits so much, that I decided to follow it.”  “Well, now, that’s a trick,” the turtle replied. “Suppose I just keep on with the tradition you started, and reflect on what I’m grateful for. That would be my nice wet pond here, and all the insects that I have to eat. Seems the insects are always abundant. That, and all my other turtle friends in this pond. We all pretty much go along at the same pace, no one’s every in a hurry, and so we have a pretty harmonious environment here.”  “Say!” he exclaimed suddenly. “I think this leaf is magic, because I feel full of happiness now too. I’m going to give it back to you, so you can give it to another and then maybe they’ll feel grateful and happy too.”  And so saying, the little turtle slowly lumbered out of the water, offering up the pretty yellow leaf on its back for me to take. Reverently, I took it in my mouth because I knew that it was magic.  It had the power to remind me of an important lesson— when we feel gratitude, we also feel love, and then we feel more positive about life and everything in our lives.  Counting your blessings isn’t an archaic dull dictum, it’s a wellspring for joy. Off I went, merrily on the lookout for a creature who was in need of a little remembrance of all the blessings that exist around each of us, everyday. May you remember yours too.  Until next time, 

John Walker

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Take a moment to celebrate our Veteran John Walker. Read all about his story on this months edition. Thank you for your service!

Surfside Beach’s Business Improvement Grant

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by the Town of Surfside Beach Did you know that Surfside Beach has a business committee? It was created to foster a better relationship between the businesses in town and the town council.  Over the course of the last few years, the business committee has helped to implement new marketing ideas and strategies (like this segment in the Coastal Insider); rewritten the sign ordinance; and provided feedback on the commercial overlay and new entertainment district.  The committee is committed to creating a business-friendly culture and improving opportunities for business owners in town, especially by utilizing the Design Overlay Improvement Grant—also known as the Façade Grant.    The Design Overlay Improvement Grant was created by the Surfside Beach Business Committee to encourage private investment in upgrading the older properties in the town’s design overlay district, otherwise known as C1 and C2 commercial districts.  The grant funds exterior improvements of buildings up to fifty percent of the project cost with a maximum of $5,000; and landscaping up to a maximum $2,000. Grant applications are accepted at any time.  Any property owner, tenant, or business within the C1 and C2 commercial districts may apply for a Design Overlay Improvement Grant subject to the requirements in the application. Lee Zulanch, owner of Benjamin’s Bakery, is the first business to take advantage of the grant. When asked about his experience during the process, Lee stated: “The application and process are simple and it has been a great experience. The encouragement of the business committee and support of the town was uplifting. The town even assisted in connecting us with vendors to ensure a competitive bid was secured so that we could adhere to the grant guidelines.”  A picture speaks a thousand words and the improvements are impressive. Grants are funded on a reimbursement basis and applications must be approved in writing prior to any work being started. If you are a business owner in the commercial districts that could use a facelift or primping, apply today.  Contact a business committee member with questions or come to the next meeting on November 12, 2019. The business committee meets the second Tuesday of the month at 10am in Council Chambers. Learn more or download the application at http://surfsidebeach.org/business-committee

The Football Huddle in the Market Common

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by Ashley Daniels Are you ready for some football? You’ll score big at the team of sports bars at the Market Common playing a full lineup of college and NFL games, and serving up some game-worthy food and drink specials. Here’s the skinny on where the pigskin is champion.  810 Bowling, 1220 Moser Drive, Myrtle Beach www.810Bowling.com/market-common At 810 Billiards & Bowling, you’ll not only be able to take a seat to take in your football game of choice, but you’ll also be able to be a competitor in your own right. 810 has twenty bowling lanes, seven billiard tables, air hockey, an arcade and more. This classic bowling alley with an upscale twist also offers two full-service bars, a full menu, and live entertainment. Take advantage of 810’s $25 deal, available all day for all football games Saturday and Sunday. For $25, you and your squad get one domestic beer tube, one cheese pizza, 12 jumbo wings and two bowling game passes. They also offer $1 bowling games from noon to 4 pm. And if you wear a football jersey, you get one free game of bowling (available all day). The Brass Tap, 3090 Deville Street, Myrtle Beach www.BrassTapBeerBar.com/myrtlebeach As you can imagine from its name, The Brass Tap pours out a beer or two – 60 different craft beers that are on tap, to be exact. The upscale craft beer bar also serves a creative full food menu. Watch parties kick-off around any of the 17 HD TVs, including an 82-inch 4k Ultra HD big screen. At the tap, you can even tap into their App Audio system to listen to any game on your mobile device. Gordon Biersch, 3060 Howard Ave., Myrtle Beach. www.GordonBiersch.com Gordon Biersch doubles as a restaurant that offers an eclectic collection of American food and an onsite brewery with German precision-brewed craft beers. Food and brews complement each other, as well as the cool, casual ambiance in the bar-dining area that features an abundance of hanging big-screen TVs playing all of your favorite football games on the weekends.  King Street Grille, 3040 Howard Ave., Myrtle Beach.  www.thekingstreetgrille.com Voted “Best Sports Bar in Myrtle Beach,” King Street Grille is your headquarters for all things football. The upscale sports bar is surrounded in a wall-to-wall, black-and-white mural of the Steelers’ Heinz Field, so you know they take football seriously. And in case you aren’t convinced, their countless HD flat screen and large screen TVs that ensure there’s not a bad seat in the house should do the trick. King Street’s award-winning menu is packed with munchies like wings, burgers and their popular Chicken Chesapeake Sandwich. Visit www.marketcommonmb.com for more info on upcoming events and restaurant specials at the Market Common.

The 2019 Intracoastal Christmas Regatta

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by Danielle McFadden Each year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, the Intracoastal Christmas Regatta takes place on the scenic Intracoastal Waterway. This maritime boat parade is not only a spectacular show, but also a much loved community fundraiser and Thanksgiving tradition.  This year, the Intracoastal Christmas Regatta will take place on November 30. It starts at the Little River Inlet at 5:30pm, and travels south, arriving at Dock Holidays around 7pm. You’ll be able to see the flotilla from any waterfront location on this route, such as: Patio’s, Key West Crazy, Crab Catchers, Cricket Cove Marina, Snooky’s, MB Yacht Club, Officers Club, Cherry Grove Marina, Capt. Archie’s, Filet’s, Boardwalk Billy’s, or Dock Holiday’s Marina. Since 1985, the purpose of Yachts for Tots has been to connect the Little River/North Myrtle Beach boating community to help disadvantaged children in Horry County secure needs that might not be met through traditional agencies.  They network through school principals, guidance counselors and teachers to fill those needs. It could be anything from helping a child get a hearing aid or glasses to helping make sure Santa finds them Christmas morning. They’re able to do this through the fundraising activities associated with the Intracoastal Christmas Regatta. All gifts, donations and proceeds go to disadvantaged children in Horry County. November 30 is also Small Business Saturday. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our community, providing not only a unique charm, but creating local jobs, supporting local needs, and much more. Return the favor and remember to shop with a small business.  Visit the Little River Chamber Facebook page or website for a free “Support Small Business” Bingo card to compete with your friends. 

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