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Day: April 29, 2020

American Red Cross and the Importance of Blood Donations

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Make a Difference, Donate Blood by Melissa LaScaleia The American Red Cross provides life-saving blood to hospitals around the country every day of the year. But the ongoing presence of Covid-19 across the globe means that the typical places where the Red Cross holds blood drives— like schools, colleges, and offices— have been temporarily closed, canceling a majority of all blood drives. The blood collected at these drives is necessary for accident victims or those requiring surgery. Hospitals rely on the donations from the American Red Cross to continue serving and saving people. By the first week in April, more than 200 drives across South Carolina had been canceled or postponed. That equates to over 6200 units of blood. To put this number in perspective, each blood donation equates to roughly one unit of blood, which potentially helps save up to three people’s lives. “All of the drives were canceled at once, and it has a ripple effect of needed blood that will continue throughout the summer,” says Ben Williamson, director of communications for the American Red Cross of South Carolina.” The American Red Cross responded to the cancellations with urgent requests for blood donors as well as new locations from which they could host their mobile blood drives. Blood donation is classified as an essential service, and the American Red Cross is considered critical infrastructure. Hospital patients have to have blood. “A week or two ago, we put out a call to the media, businesses, our board members, and all the organizations that work with us, asking them for advertising and support,” Ben says. “Belin United Methodist Church, Waccamaw Community Hospital, Tanger Outlets, and the YMCA are just a few of the great partners that have responded, as well as other venues in Horry and Georgetown Counties. “We are in such a better place today than we were two weeks ago. The South Carolina community has stepped up in a huge way. People have come out to donate blood in such large numbers that we’ve been able to meet the critical need for blood. “But we need to follow this statement up with realism as well as a repetition of our request for your help— our need for blood is ongoing. Blood is perishable. It’s not something that we can put in a storage bank and take out when we need it. So, we constantly need blood from folks who can come and give.” “One of the challenges with blood donations is that we’re competing with the other things on people’s schedules,” he adds. “Right now, many people have more time on their hands, and we want them to remember that they can put that to good use by coming to donate. And because we are considered an essential service, donors have license to travel to give blood.” If you are healthy and eligible to donate blood, make an appointment by calling 1-800-REDCROSS or visit www.redcrossblood.org for a list of new blood donation locations near you. You can check your eligibility online by filling out their health screening questionnaire in advance. At this time, contacting the Red Cross via internet or phone is the best method of verifying a location to donate. Appointments are highly recommended both to ensure appropriate space is maintained between donors in keeping with CDC recommendations for social distancing, as well as to monitor how much blood is collected with how much is being distributed to hospitals. “We may not have a slot tomorrow or two days from now, but definitely in two or three weeks we will,” Ben says. “This will be an ongoing need in the ensuing weeks and months.” The Red Cross has implemented steps and procedures during the COVID-19 crisis to ensure the safety of all volunteers and donors. “Medical personnel right up to the Surgeon General consider donating blood safe,” Amy Brauner, executive director of American Red Cross, says. “There have been no cases of this virus, nor any respiratory virus, being transmitted through blood, and this has been verified again and again. The American Red Cross is dedicated to procuring life-saving blood, just as they are to protecting all donors and volunteers. Above, a list of the protocols they are following to keep everyone as safe as possible. “Should the donor develop any symptoms or diagnosis in the ensuing days afterwards, they contact Red Cross, and that blood donation is isolated, quarantined, and disposed of. This isn’t necessary, but it is out of abundance of caution.” “We are also screening donors when they arrive,” she adds. “Volunteers wearing masks take their temperature before they enter the facility. We are staggering appointments to follow social distancing guidelines. Volunteers are disinfecting before, during and after each donor gives. And donors are given hand sanitizer before, during, and after the donation.” All blood donors receive a number that links them with their blood donation. The donor is able to track their donation in their Red Cross mobile app, and follow their donation’s journey to see where it went. It may go to a multitude of places, including across the country– wherever the need is the greatest. “It’s been humbling to see the response of people stepping up and giving back, as folks deal with this and the impact it is having on their own families and jobs,” Ben says. “When our hospitals were letting us know that there was an urgent need for blood, we were overwhelmed by the support we received. People spread the word on the radio and through advertisers. And there were a large amount of people who showed up everyday to roll up their sleeves, to make sure that there was blood on the shelves so hospitals could be prepared to help everyone in need. We hope that this support continues. Executive director for the American Red Cross, Amy Brauner (left), and biomedical account manager, Meggin Heath (right), welcome donors at local neighborhood blood drives. “Our community is known for helping one another through major disasters. Helping … Read more

NSI Security Systems Solutions

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Driven by Technology, Dedicated to Security by Melissa LaScaleia The technology driven NSI Security Systems Solutions in Myrtle Beach is jointly owned by Charles Bell and his son Chuck— both U.S. Army veterans. Chuck is third generation military in his family. His grandfather served in WWII and Korea; he served in Iraq. “I realized I didn’t want to go to college, so after high school I enlisted in the Army as a mechanic,” Chuck says. “Towards the latter end of my career, I got more involved in the security side of things. After four years in the military, I moved back to Massachusetts, where I’m from, and began working for my father with NSI Security.” NSI Security Systems Solutions began in 1986 as a locksmithing company. In the military, Charles worked in the engineering corp division; creating NSI Security was a natural extension of his interests. “My dad was invested in the security world pre-9/11, implementing security systems and cameras for commercial businesses, the government, banks, and schools long before it was cool,” Chuck says laughing. Over the years, NSI Security has transformed from locksmithing to advanced technology solutions, with a niche specialization that few people are qualified to perform.  They are certified by Government Services Administration (GSA) to install and repair government safes and vault locks. “There are only two types of locks the government will use,” Chuck says. “And there aren’t a lot of people who know how to install or repair them. My dad was doing this before there was a certification for it. But after 9/11 everyone realized that you can’t have somebody walking onto an Air Force Base without clearances, or who isn’t fully versed in the ins and outs of how this equipment works. We have to have constant background and security clearance checks to perform these services.” After 9/11, as the need for greater security amongst government and corporate buildings exploded, Chuck and his father found themselves traveling all over the country— a lot. “Our work was taking us from Maine to Florida,” Chuck says. “And we began to get tired of all the driving. My dad had been coming to Myrtle Beach for fifteen years and had a second home down here. So we decided to open a second location for NSI Security in Myrtle Beach, and I moved here last year to run it.”  Today, the father and son pair have a local team of nine employees assisting them with the multitude of security services that they provide at the municipal, corporate, and residential level. They continue to offer the locksmithing services that put then on the map, as well as installation and service for access control card readers, alarms, security cameras, full security systems, and everything that falls under the umbrella of security— including hardware. “A lot of people don’t know how to do the hardware and the security, but we can do both,” Chuck says. “It really sets us apart. “We can also orchestrate security systems for entire towns. We continue to evolve with the times as things change. The technology, just like a computer, changes all the time. And it’s incredible. We just got a camera that reads people’s body temperatures as they walk by. Whoever is monitoring it will get an alert if someone has a high temperature. The technology-driven NSI Security Systems Solutions is at the cutting edge of their industry in terms of the products they offer as well as their skill in installations and repairs. “We envision the temperature camera being installed in senior care centers and hospitals. It’s the first line of defense right now, who’s walking through your doors— because you’re putting everyone else at risk. Dealers are connecting us with those who want this product, because they know they can trust us. There aren’t a lot of people who have the knowledge and credentials to install these.” Another Coronavirus-driven product is a doorknob that has an antimicrobial coating on it. They’re available commercially as well as residentially. Some other things they offer include a cloud-based commercial access control system that can be managed from a cell phone. “The technology enables you to unlock the door to your business or home remotely using your phone,” Chuck says. “If you have a visitor, you can see the individual on camera. And companies can also use it for employees to clock-in and out. The demand for this has been overwhelming.” The company also builds a trailer equipped with cameras on the outside and solar panels on the roof– the latter provides a hotspot for internet communications. The trailers are built to client specifications and are available to rent or buy. It can be used as a mobile office during the day, then to monitor the area remotely at night. “We can transport these trailers anywhere,” Chuck says. “I’m marketing them for construction sites, concerts, marathons, festivals, and events like Bike Week. Any place where security is needed but you can’t be everywhere at once, or need to monitor the area after hours. It’s a fantastic way to secure a location when you’re not there because you can see what’s happening from anywhere in the world.” Since arriving in Myrtle Beach, NSI Security has been servicing a lot of HOA facilities helping to secure pools and recreation areas with pin codes. “We are happy to offer demos for our products at our shop,” Chuck says. “That way people can really see and learn about all of the technology solutions that we have.” “I’m very glad we came to Myrtle Beach,” he adds. “Everyone is friendly, and the community has embraced us as a company. There are a lot of businesses here that we can help with our services. We pride ourselves on doing clean work, staying on top of answering our phones, and returning calls in a timely manner.” NSI Security Solutions does all jobs, big and small, as well as emergency locksmith services for everything except vehicles. They give local, senior, and veteran … Read more

CertaPro Painters

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We Do Paint, You Do Life by Melissa LaScaleia CertaPro Painters is a family owned and operated franchise that is new to the Myrtle Beach area. The company was started by husband and wife team, Doug and Robin Bland in 2019. Their son, Ryan, is working as the residential sales associate; their daughter, Taylor Teters, is the office administrator. “My father’s main goal in beginning this enterprise was to offer people professional service while positively contributing to the community, and leaving a legacy for his children and grandchildren,” Taylor says. “Recently, my brother and I have come on board to work with our parents to help get this off the ground.” CertaPro Painters does residential and commercial interior and exterior painting, as well as re-finishing and painting of kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and some carpentry work. They service people along the majority of the South Carolina coast, from Little River to North Charleston, including the inland areas of Conway, Longs, and Loris. “Our family has been vacationing in Myrtle Beach for the past twelve years, every year at Marina Inn at Grande Dunes,” Taylor says. “We rented the same condo every year. My dad first came to Myrtle Beach after college, and has been vacationing here ever since. My mother has vacationed here since she was a child. They both know and love this area.” As a young adult, Doug met Robin in his native Virginia and began a career in corporate America working for Xerox. The company relocated them to Columbia, South Carolina, but the two had a vision of moving to the beach. The CertPro team from left to right: Robin Bland, Doug Bland, Taylor Teters, Ryan Bland, and Camden Bland. — Photo Rachel Ogg/Latoya Grayson Several years ago, they did just that. Doug decided to leave his career of twenty-five years and began looking for a way to contribute more to his local community, the community that he loves so much. In exploring his options, Doug thought that CertaPro, with their values on professionalism, superior organization, and client-centered focus, would be the best fit for him. And they thought he’d be a great fit for their brand. “CertaPro is very thorough with their training,” Taylor says, “and very particular about whom they allow to partner with them because they want to maintain the high standards of their brand, and don’t want anybody to fail. They are staking you out as much as you’re staking them out.” When Doug first began, he worked as a one-man show until Taylor and Ryan were ready to come aboard. “We all moved here in stages,” Taylor says. “In 2013, I spent a year at Coastal Carolina University. I loved it here but missed my family so much, I moved back after a year. In 2017, my brother moved here to offer dolphin and jet ski tours. My youngest brother, Camden, is taking classes at HGTC currently and is expected to join the family business in the near future.” Part of Doug’s philosophy in giving back and paying kindness and service forward is exemplified by the way he runs his business. CertaPro goes the extra mile in everything that they do. If they see something broken that they can fix while they’re working in your home, they’ll take care of it for you. It’s all part of their pay it forward philosophy. “If someone has a problem and we can fix it, we do,” Taylor says. “We go the extra mile. Anything and everything that we see while we’re there painting, we’ll take care of. Whether it’s dusting a chandelier that nobody noticed, or fixing a leaking sink, it’s the small things that we notice and care about and do something about that really distinguish us from other companies. That’s what sets us apart.”  As part of their process, CertaPro will send out daily updates to keep clients informed about what was completed that day, and what the game plan is for the next day. “This is part of our CertaPro certainty pledge that shapes a customized service with you,” Taylor says. “We create a road map from start to finish so you can track our progress.” During COVID-19 restrictions, CertaPro is still open and functioning, as they are considered an essential business. In addition to providing hand sanitizer at every in-person estimate, the company has introduced virtual online estimates in which customers can send in pictures, measurements, and descriptions and receive a quote for their project. To ease their clients’ minds and ensure complete satisfaction, CertaPro enlists the aid of cleaning crews to come in and clean all areas that were touched during the project. “We’ve had great feedback,” Taylor says. “Our customers are pleased we’re going the extra mile to ensure their safety as well as our own. This is also a perfect time to schedule exterior paint jobs. We’re still following our goal— to improve the beach, one house at a time.” CertaPro Painters Globe Phone Facebook Instagram

Clemmons Law Firm

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Practical Solutions For Those With Financial Struggles by Melissa LaScaleia Clemmons Law Firm, LLC is a law firm focusing primarily in bankruptcy and real estate law. The firm also provides other essential legal services in the areas of estate planning such as wills, trusts, health care directives and related services.      Alan Clemmons, David Haar and Sheri McAllister are the three attorneys representing Clemmons Law Firm. This firm was founded by Alan Clemmons in 2005.  Sheri received her J.D. in 1988 from the University of South Carolina and finished her law studies with a LLM in International Commercial Law in 1992 from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland.  Prior to joining Clemmons Law Firm this year, Sheri practiced law from home while raising her daughter, working as in-house counsel for her husband’s company. Her practice consisted of a general practice with emphasis on community associations. Sheri is excited to be a part of Clemmons Law Firm and work with other attorneys in an office setting. She handles the firm’s Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases. Since COVID-19, many people are facing financial difficulties. Bankruptcy is a means to relieve financial burdens and is a service Sheri is happy to offer clients. Sheri explains the two types of bankruptcy currently offered by Clemmons Law Firm. Chapter 13 is an option allowing individuals with regular income (and in some instances, sole proprietors) to interrupt creditors’ pursuits of foreclosures and other forms of collection. Chapter 13 allows the individual to regroup and craft a repayment plan that usually lasts three to five years. Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a good option if an individual is behind on mortgage payments. Sheri McAllister has been practicing law for over thirty years, and handles the bankruptcy proceedings for Clemmons Law Firm’s clients. “Helping people get back on track with their finances is how I serve others,” she says. “Facing the foreclosure of your home or the repossession of your car is extremely stressful,” Sheri says. “I want people to know they have options to protect assets, to obtain relief from a creditor’s efforts to collect debts, and to start fresh financially. Clients that pursue bankruptcy will also obtain the benefit of credit counseling as a prerequisite to filing bankruptcy, which will assist them with financial decisions going forward. It is important to note that each case is different; therefore legal counsel is necessary to customize a plan that works best for an individual’s particular financial situation.” Another bankruptcy option for clients of Clemmons Law Firm is a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Chapter 7 is typically known as straight liquidation bankruptcy. It generally allows the client to eliminate general non-priority unsecured debts such as credit card debts and medical bills. “Some debts are not dischargeable in bankruptcy so it is also important to seek the advice of legal counsel for guidance with a Chapter 7,” Sheri says. “This type of bankruptcy allows the client to protect some of their assets or a portion of the equity in their assets (usually homes, cars and other essential items) by way of specific exemptions. The goal is to not create a destitute situation for people in financial trouble, but to seek ways to protect their basic necessities, alleviate some of the financial stress, and allow a fresh start.” Sheri enjoys helping people, and enjoys her ability to give back to the community via pro-bono work. She volunteers for the South Carolina Bar, and offers free legal advice in remote counties for those who otherwise would not be able to afford it.  Clemmons Law Firm is also dedicated to giving back to the community through their program known as Closings for a Cause in which a portion of proceeds from each real estate closing is donated to a specific charitable organization each month. “Helping people to get back on track with their finances is how I serve others,” Sheri says of her passion for her profession. “I enjoy reading, writing, and problem solving. When a client comes in with a problem, I like to analyze the situation and try to provide a solution. I also try, if I can, to prevent people from getting into bad or worse situations. “With so many people out of work right now because of COVID-19, I want people to know and understand that they have options, and they have support. They don’t have to face these challenges alone. That’s why I’m here, doing what I do.” Clemmons Law Firm Globe Phone Map-marked-alt Facebook

BB&T Is Now Truist

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It’s Business As Usual, With Surety and Excellent Service by Melissa LaScaleia Jim Kondravy is a mortgage loan officer for BB&T, now Truist. He and his wife and three children moved to Myrtle Beach in 2015. “My wife has an autoimmune disease, and she wasn’t doing well where we lived in Philadelphia with the cold, wet winters,” Jim says. “But every year, when we vacationed in Myrtle Beach, she felt better.” So Jim sold their house and possessions and left his career in the North. He and his family embarked on a new life journey— to warmth, sunny skies and healthier living in Myrtle Beach. In searching for a career, Jim heard a lot of positive feedback from the community about BB&T. Soon after the move, he accepted a position working for them as a branch banker at their Carolina Forest location. He did so well, that in 2017, the company asked him to become a mortgage loan officer. Jim found his niche in this environment, and has been working for the company in this capacity ever since. “I’m taking care of my clients from the day they want to get qualified on a loan to the day they close on their house,” Jim says. “And ensuring that when that day comes, they have big smiles on their faces. “As a company, the most important thing to BB&T, now Truist, is client service. We want to offer the most competitive loan rates and facilitate a seamless experience from beginning to end. We know that if we take care of our clients, they’re going to be happy. “With all the regulations involved in buying a home, it’s overwhelming for most people. Holding someone’s hand and helping them through the process is really the best way I can ensure the experience stays stress-free and positive.” For Jim, taking care of his clients means building strong relationships with everyone he interacts with to ensure the maximum amount of ease and communication for his clients along every step of their mortgage-loan journey. “Today, everything is technology based,” Jim says. “But what separates me from everyone else is that I’m relationship-based. I have relationships with real estate agents, closing attorneys, insurance agents— all the people involved with the home buying process.” As a mortgage loan officer with BB&T, now Truist, Jim Kondravy works to make the entire client experience of applying for and getting approved for a mortgage loan as smooth as possible. “I haven’t been living here very long, but I’ve rapidly built my business because I make myself available by email, phone, and text. It doesn’t matter if it’s during normal business hours. People can get ahold of me, and if they can’t, they know I’ll respond as quickly as possible. To me, this is part of relationship building— that the people I work with know they can reach me when they need me. It creates trust.” Recently BB&T purchased SunTrust. The acquisition was finalized in December 2019, and as it was a merger of equals, the two banks became a new entity— Truist. Over the next few months, BB&T will be updating all of their marketing materials, signs, and letterhead to reflect this change and their new name. “Change is difficult for people, it can be scary for them,” Jim says. “So we’re trying to make the transition as worry-free and smooth as possible. But for our clients, there’s really not much of a change.  “This merger grants us access to better technology which allows our internal processes to run more smoothly and efficiently. This, in turn, helps us serve our clients better. Now we can do more and do it better while continuing with our great client service. There’s always room for improvement, and that’s what I’m trying to do— get better everyday, for our clients.” The current COVID-19 epidemic has created a lot of uncertainty within the economy, the mortgage world, and the real estate market. But Truist is still taking loan applications, funding loans, and serving them. “Right now, people are calling me saying, ‘I’m supposed to close tomorrow on a house and the bank is telling me that I can’t.’ But because Truist is so well-funded, we are able to be lenders. For current and new clients, it’s business as usual, with the same excellent service.” As a company, Truist is taking all the necessary precautions such as working from home, and limiting face-to-face client contact. “There’s a lot of scary things happening right now for people, a lot of lenders aren’t able to procure loans, and some people can’t close the loan,” Jim says. “So we’ve made accommodations— in manpower, for clients, for agents, and for the builders we work with— to make things happen.” BB&T, now Truist Phone Map-marked-alt Linkedin Phone

Lewis Crematory and Funeral Services

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Honoring the Memory of Those You Love With Affordable Service 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, a Conway native, opened the business in July 2018. The business provides traditional, memorial, chapel and ship out services— in which the body is embalmed here and shipped to the location family members designate. “I’ve been in the funeral business for more than twenty years,” Kelvin says. “I previously owned a crematory in North Carolina; then sold that business. I’m licensed in South Carolina and North Carolina. In creating my business, I 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 my vision.” Kelvin got started in the industry as a boy helping to tend the local cemetery, Westside Memorial Gardens in Conway, as well as the local funeral home, whenever they needed assistance. “The funeral home 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 in their time of need.”  Bill J. Gray is the manager of Lewis Crematory and Funeral Services, and has been licensed since 1975. “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. The recently renovated chapel of Lewis Crematory and Funeral Services has been expanded to accommodate greater numbers for a visitation or memorial service. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “There is an influx of people retiring and moving here from other states. 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, to serve them. Today, we are a full service crematory and funeral service provider at the most reasonable price in the state.”     “By law, all funeral homes have to follow the same guidelines, protocols, rules, and regulations as to performing a service,” he adds. “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 recently renovated their chapel, so now the space can accommodate more people for a visitation. With the advent of COVID-19, they are now offering outdoor services and drive-through memorial services. People can drive past, circling the building, to acknowledge the family gathered on the premises outside, to show support via their presence in a way that is safe and respectful for all. They are also offering a similar graveside service— rather than gathering as a group for the burial, the family can stay at the gravesite and receive those who have come to pay their respects as they drive past on the cemetery roads. “These are just a few of the options that we can offer grieving families during this time,” Kelvin says. “It’s whatever the family wants. There are a lot of options to choose from— some people elect a full service, others a private one.” Lewis Crematory and Funeral Services Globe Phone Map-marked-alt Facebook Envelope

Lieutenant General John Rosa

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Recipient of South Carolina’s Highest Civilian Honor, the Order of the Palmetto by Melissa LaScaleia John William Rosa Jr. was born in Springfield, Illinois on September 28, 1951. He grew up in Jacksonville, Florida and earned a football scholarship to attend The Citadel: The Military College of South Carolina, in Charleston. He played as starting quarterback beginning his sophomore year in college, and was also a member of ROTC. He joined the U.S. Air Force in 1973 after graduation. John completed his pilot training at Craig Air Force Base, in Alabama; then completed his fighter training at Holloman Air Force Base, in New Mexico. The trajectory of his schooling, military accomplishments, and career reveals a lifetime of achievements and dedication to those he served. He graduated from the Air Force Squadron Officer School; Air Command and Staff College; U.S. Army Command and General Staff College; and U.S. Army War College. He attended the Instructor Course of the USAF Weapons School. He has a master’s degree in public administration from Golden Gate University which he earned in 1985, and graduated from the Program for Senior Executives in National and International Security Management at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. John was initially stationed at the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base in South Carolina. From July 1975 to August 1980, he flew the LTV A-7 Corsair II and the Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II with the 354th Tactical Fighter Wing. He was also stationed with the 56th Tactical Fighter Wing at MacDill Air Force Base, in Florida, where he flew the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon. From 1980 to 1983, he served on an exchange tour with the Royal Air Force, and flew both Hunter and Jaguar aircraft at the RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland. During his long and illustrious military career, Lieutenant General John William Rosa Jr. had numerous command positions. Those include the 35th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Kunsan Air Base, in South Korea; the 366th Operations Support Squadron in Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho; 49th Operations Group at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico; 20th Fighter Wing, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina; and the 347th Rescue Wing, Moody Air Force Base, Georgia. John also served on staff assignments at Pacific Air Forces, the U.S. Air Force headquarters, and was Deputy Director for Operations on the Joint Staff, Washington, D.C.  He led the National Military Command Center at the Pentagon during the September 11 attacks, and served as spokesman for the Joint Chiefs as U.S. troops deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq.  He also served as Commandant of the Air Command and Staff College. His last military assignment was as the sixteenth Superintendent of the United States Air Force Academy, a position he held from July 2003 until he retired from active duty in 2005.  He then accepted the position of president of The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina, where he served for twelve years before retiring in 2018. As a pilot, Lieutenant General Rosa has logged more than 3,600 flying hours. His many awards and medals include: U.S. Air Force Command Pilot Badge; Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge; Air Force Distinguished Service Medal; Defense Superior Service Medal; Legion of Merit with one bronze oak leaf cluster; Meritorious Service Medal with four oak leaf clusters; Air Force Commendation Medal; Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with two silver and one bronze oak leaf clusters; Air Force Organizational Excellence Award; Combat Readiness Medal with two oak leaf clusters; National Defense Service Medal with two bronze service stars; Air Force Overseas Short Tour Service Ribbon; Air Force Overseas Long Tour Service Ribbon; Air Force Longevity Service Award with one silver and two bronze oak leaf clusters; Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon; Air Force Training Ribbon. He was presented with the state’s highest civilian honor in 2018, the Order of the Palmetto, by South Carolina’s Governor Henry McMaster. He is married to Donna Kangeter, a Charleston native. They have two sons, Jonathan and Brad (both graduates of The Citadel), and three grandchildren.

The “City” of Little River

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by Little River Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center Little River, SC is located in the Northeastern tip of the state; inland of North Myrtle Beach and south of Calabash, NC.  Our coastal community flows along the IntraCoastal Waterway— originally called Mineola, meaning “little river,”  by local Indian tribes. With a colorful history including shipwreck survivors and pirates, the community grew into a small fishing village, and is now the gateway to the Grand Strand for many Northern visitors. While presently a bustling community, Little River has unprecedented potential for growth in the near future. Many are attracted to Little River due to our proximity to nearby beaches and cities, as well as our lack of city taxes. But why don’t we pay city taxes? Little River is a census-designated place, meaning we’re unincorporated and don’t have a city. There’s no city government and no town hall. While we love our neighbors, and they us, nearby cities are not responsible for Little River residents. There’s a plus and minus to everything though— we don’t pay their taxes, but we also don’t receive their benefits. So who does take care of us? Governmental needs are overseen by Horry County Government. While many of their offices are in Conway, there are local offices for Police, Fire & Rescue, Library, DMV, Auditor, Treasurer, and more. We’re also blessed with two county park locations: North Strand Park on Hwy 57 and the CB Berry & Community Center on Hwy 179. The North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex is also located in Little River. We are also lucky to have a dedicated chamber. The Little River Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center is a nonprofit, membership-based organization whose mission is to make the area a better place to live, work, and play. Like many chambers, they assist locals and visitors with a myriad of questions, and work closely with elected leadership of Horry County and state legislators to ensure our community’s needs are heard.  They’re working hard now to ensure our community survives the current pandemic. The chamber is also collecting timely resources and information for both individuals and businesses. Visit their website, LittleRiverChamber.org for current resources. We hope you’ve found your treasure in Little River, SC. We’ll get through this together (6 feet apart).

Find Your Favorite Trail or Open Space in North Myrtle Beach

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by Angel Rabon, City of North Myrtle Beach Parks & Recreation North Myrtle Beach may be known for its nine miles of beautiful sandy beaches, but dispersed throughout the city are a variety of trails and open areas for the residents and visiting guests to enjoy. The City of NMB Parks & Recreation maintains many trails and open spaces providing people of all ages a no-cost recreational activity where they can cycle, walk, hike, jog or sit and relax.  Preserving important natural landscapes is one of the benefits of trails and open spaces. The City of NMB offers two preserves that demonstrate just that. The Heritage Shores Nature Preserve is one of the most unique parks in the city. With seven acres of walking trails, the park is located on an island that extends into the marsh. This land is preserved in its native state and is accessible via a series of elevated boardwalks and observation decks. Interpretive signage throughout the park describes the plants, animals, fish, and birds that can be seen on your stroll through the park. Located adjacent to the preserve is the Cherry Grove Park & Boat Ramp. This popular fishing spot is located on the Cherry Grove Marsh and provides boat access to the marsh and the Atlantic Ocean. The Russell Burgess Coastal Preserve is a scenic overview of the picturesque Cherry Grove Marsh where guests enjoy fishing and crabbing. The park provides foot access to the inlet and a boardwalk was added to maintain important marsh habitat. The City of NMB encourages physical fitness and connecting with others through trails and open spaces. Situated throughout the NMB Park & Sports Complex are three trails and a meadow. The Lake Trail is 1.1 miles around a lake which provides walkers the opportunity to view the riders at the Shark Wake Park, and the adventure seekers on the zip lines from the Go-Ape Tree Top Adventure. At the center of the Sports Complex is the twelve acre open area, McLeod Seacoast Meadow. This grassy, open area is available for general recreation activities as well as special events. The meadow is a great area for family picnics, relaxation, or a multitude of other recreation activities. It is surrounded by a half-mile walking path which is used daily by residents and visitors. Also in the Sports Complex, is the 2.5 mile McLeod Seacoast Nature Trail, set to open this fall. This trail takes you through a forest area filled with lush vegetation and a variety of birds and animals. These City of NMB trails and areas are currently sponsored by local banks and medical centers. The sponsorships help to preserve, protect, maintain, and support these natural places while providing businesses the opportunity to get involved in promoting an active lifestyle in the community. Trails are essential to all cities, and the City of North Myrtle Beach will continue to preserve and maintain these walking paths and open areas for all to enjoy. Whether it is a stroll around a lake, or a quiet hike in the woods, these amenities provide people the opportunity to enjoy the diverse environment and the natural beauty of our city.

Myrtle Beach Finds New Ways To Be “First In Service”

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by the City of Myrtle Beach You can hear the rare sound of silence in Myrtle Beach. With the “work or home” limitation and all events on hold, COVID-19 quieted what should be a bustling spring season. The lack of noise is noticeable, yet Myrtle Beach still offers that first-in-service experience. A crisis like COVID-19 changes your perspective. Many systems and establishments we once took for granted are no longer in place, put on temporary pause, while those that are still operating have become more appreciated. We’re pleased to reassure you that during this time, our regular solid waste and recycling services continue for residents. Our police and fire personnel are on the job as usual, albeit with new precautions about close personal contact. You can report more things by phone and internet as we strive to maintain safe distancing. City buildings have been closed to the public for weeks. Always “first in service,” the recreation staff found creative new ways to offer classes. You can exercise online as part of a live program, or play back the video when “breaking a sweat” is more convenient. Chapin Memorial Library, already on the cutting edge, now offers online story-time and craft classes. You can join live or gather the kids when it suits your family schedule to watch Ms. Stacey or Ms. Catherine. Our electronic resources adapted quickly, too. City Council and other committees are meeting via teleconference, making themselves accessible live on our Facebook page: Facebook @ Myrtle Beach City Government. For those who haven’t participated previously, now is a good time to begin. Myrtle Beach also offers a number of online options for utility billing, building permits and business licenses. And, City Council approved several measures to help residents and businesses cope with the economic hardships brought on by COVID-19. Our website, www.cityofmyrtlebeach.com, has a wealth of resources, including a Coronavirus Information page and a Free-Sources page. Both have details about services and programs. Have a question? Call us at 843-918-INFO for answers about the city and life in general under this new normal. The information line is available daily, from 8am to 8pm. Like everyone, the City of Myrtle Beach is adapting. Crisis builds character, so let us grow stronger for having experienced this event. We’re in this together. COVID-19 shall pass, and the noise and bustle of daily life will resume.

Mother’s Day: How Did We Get Here?

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by the Town of Surfside Beach The American incarnation of Mother’s Day was created by Anna Maria Jarvis in 1908 and became an official U.S. holiday in 1914. Anna would later denounce the holiday’s commercialization and spent the latter part of her life trying to remove it from the calendar. While celebrations vary, Mother’s Day traditionally involves presenting moms with flowers, cards and other gifts. The clearest modern precedent for Mother’s Day is the early Christian festival known as Mothering Sunday.  Once a major tradition in the United Kingdom and parts of Europe, this celebration fell on the fourth Sunday in Lent and was originally seen as a time when the faithful would return to their “mother church”— the main church in the vicinity of their home— for a special service. In the United States, before the Civil War, Ann Reeves Jarvis of West Virginia helped start Mothers’ Day Work Clubs to teach local women how to properly care for their children. In 1868 she then organized Mother’s Friendship Day, at which mothers gathered with former Union and Confederate soldiers to promote reconciliation. The official Mother’s Day holiday arose after Ann Reeves Jarvis’ death in 1905. Her daughter, Anna Maria Jarvis, conceived of Mother’s Day as a way of honoring the sacrifices mothers made for their children. Beginning in 1908, John Wanamaker, a pioneer in marketing, financed Anna’s campaign to have Mother’s Day designated as a national holiday and officially recognized. On May 8, 1914, the U.S. Congress passed a law designating the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day; it also later became an international holiday. Anna blanketed the nation’s churches, women’s clubs and people of influence with letters to adopt the idea of official Mother’s Day Services. In 1908, a number of cities held their first Mother’s Day celebrations, including Philadelphia, where John intended to host guests at his department store’s 5,000 seat auditorium.  When 15,000 wanted to attend, Wanamaker moved the celebration across the street to the plaza in front of City Hall. The 1908 celebration indicated that Anna had hit upon a sentiment that had tremendous support across the nation. But by then the celebration was escaping her grasp, for retailers and the American florist industry were already cashing in on what Anna had envisioned as a religious event. Anna objected to greeting cards as, “a poor excuse for the letter you are too lazy to write,” and the sale of flowers and gifts for mothers as turning a day of sentiment into one of profit. While Anna had initially worked with the floral industry to help raise the profile of Mother’s Day, by 1920 she had become disgusted with how the holiday had been commercialized. She outwardly denounced the transformation and urged people to stop buying Mother’s Day flowers, cards and candies. While versions of Mother’s Day are celebrated worldwide, traditions vary depending on the country. In Thailand, for example, Mother’s Day is always celebrated in August on the birthday of the current queen, Sirikit.  Another alternate observance of Mother’s Day can be found in Ethiopia, where families gather each fall to sing songs and eat a large feast as part of Antrosht, a multi-day celebration honoring motherhood.  Mother’s Day has also been a date for launching political or feminist causes. In 1968 Coretta Scott King, wife of Martin Luther King Jr., used Mother’s Day to host a march in support of underprivileged women and children.  The Town of Surfside Beach wishes all moms a healthy and Happy Mother’s Day. We look forward to having you, your family and friends for a visit. Visit our Facebook page for updates.  Article compiled with content from The History Channel. Source : The History Channel

Q&A with Casey Wilson

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A Community-Lovin’ Mother, Wife and Doctor by Melissa LaScaleia Introduce me to your family. It’s myself and my husband Derin; he works for Tidelands Health as the operations manager for their oncology department. We have a three-year-old son, Porter; a nine-month-old daughter, Salem; and an English Bulldog, Rhett. Where are all the places you came from? Where do you live now? I grew up in York, Pennsylvania. We moved to the Market Common area two years ago from Baltimore, Maryland where we lived for six years. Before that, we were in Philadelphia while I was attending medical school. Why did you move to Myrtle Beach? I was offered a job at Grand Strand Medical Center to be their emergency ultrasound director as well as ultrasound fellowship director for their new Emergency Medicine Residency Training program. What is your favorite place in Myrtle Beach? The Market Common. Usually we spend several days a week going to Savannah’s Playground, Barnes & Noble, Edventure, and Kosta Bowls (the acai bowl and smoothie shop). What do you like the most about living here? The community. We don’t have any family here, and our neighbors have been incredible about stepping in if we ever need a hand, or help with babysitting. We quickly felt at home here with how inclusive and friendly our neighbors are. How has your lifestyle changed since moving here? It’s definitely slowed down. We previously lived in a very busy urban environment. Now, we are able to really appreciate the small things since having small children, and spend every possible moment outdoors that we can— riding bikes, going to parks, and going to the beach. What new activities have you taken up since moving here? Golf cart cruising and visiting construction sites for our 3-year-old who is obsessed with construction machinery. We are also hopeful pickleball aficionados. My husband played tennis in college, and we are trying to learn pickleball now so we can keep up with our very active neighbors in the sport. Do you find people here friendlier or more at ease? Yes, I think that the people here are less stressed and very much at ease in their daily lives. What is one thing that your neighbors don’t know about you?  I love to channel my inner creativity by making clothes and crafts for my kids. What are your favorite things to do here? Attending festivals and charity events for the local nonprofit 100 Women Who Care; going to the farmers markets and the student-run dinners at the International Culinary School; and spending time outside with our neighbors. I also enjoy attending FemInEM events here. FemInEM is a national group for women in emergency medicine to come together socially to talk about some of the unique issues we face as women in our profession. They are purely fun, social events, and a time for us to connect and decompress with others who can relate to what we’re experiencing. Is there anything that you miss or would like to see in Myrtle Beach? A large outdoor brewery or winery would be amazing.

Why An Emergency Fund Is So Important & How To Create One

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by Kevin Gunn If there is one thing that the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us, it’s that most Americans are not ready to weather the kind of economic storm we are facing without some level of assistance. Even with a roaring economy, the stats on the average American household are staggering. According to Forbes.com, 79% of families live paycheck to paycheck, and 53% of families have no financial emergency fund to speak of.  This down time is the perfect opportunity to assess cash flow and expenditures with clarity, and make financial plans for the next time we find ourselves in this kind of economic shutdown. A great way to take control of your finances and feel confident in the event of a crisis is to create an emergency fund. So, what is an emergency fund and how should you go about funding it? Based on most expert’s opinions, an emergency fund is an account that you set up with enough reserves to cover at least six months of expenses that are considered a necessity. What is defined as a necessity will vary from person to person. What follows are some helpful tips on how to get yourself set up to begin. First, determine the amount of money you need per month to pay your core bills and basics. These are things like rent/mortgage payment, car, insurances, phone, and any other regularly occurring bills. Also, look at any regular payments you must make on credit card bills. Next, revisit receipts from food and pharmacy expenses, like takeout, groceries, prescriptions, and other essentials like shampoo, soap, toothpaste, etc. To determine your spending patterns, tally up the total you spent in those categories for each month from the past four months. It is not realistic nor sage financial advice to plan for a stripped down version of the life you currently live. Instead, plan for the basics and allow for some flexibility of choice. You will feel much better both emotionally and psychologically, if you have a larger cushion rather than a smaller one. Tally these numbers– you can take the average, or the highest dollar amount that you spent, whichever makes you feel more financially secure in the event of a crisis. Then multiply that number by 6. So if your necessary monthly bills come to $3,000 per month, then you need $18,000 in an emergency reserve account. Second, set up a separate, and brand new account at the bank to be your designated emergency fund account. If it’s difficult for you to exercise financial restraint, or to not spend money when you have it, then open a separate account at a new bank. What’s important is that you have a separate account that is your back up, that you aren’t withdrawing money from except in the event of an emergency. Third, set up automatic savings. You can easily set up for a portion of your salary or wages to automatically go into the new account on a date you specify. How much to deposit each month is up to you. But make it a number that is realistic for you to achieve so that you stick with it; at the same time, it should be a sizable enough amount that you’re making progress in safeguarding your future. By automating the savings, you take away the temptation of not following through. The number you come up with as your emergency reserve amount may seem daunting. But remember saving is a gradual and continuous process, one in which you should pace yourself. If you follow history, you’ll notice that events like this seem to happen every ten years or so which gives you plenty of time to make the arrangements you need for the next time. With less options for entertainment, now is the perfect time to get your future emergency plan in place.

Banding Together During The Time of Social Distancing

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by Emily Smith Social distancing as a result of COVID-19 may have separated us as a community physically for some time, but the community spirit of goodwill, generosity, and helping others carries on, now, when it’s needed most, across our county and state.  Nearly 300,000 South Carolina jobs (roughly 1 in 10) are in the hospitality and tourism industry; approximately 80,000 of those are in Horry County alone. To offset the financial impact COVID-19 is having, the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association (SCRLA) partnered with Scofflaw Brewing Co. at the beginning of April to create the South Carolina Hospitality Employee COVID-19 Relief Fund. The fund will reduce some of the financial losses that the employees in this industry are facing. As a show of support for the frontline health care professionals, a young South Carolina boy and his family have been working together to create wooden red crosses to sell. All proceeds from the project go directly to children’s hospitals throughout our state. Sales first began with neighbors, but have since extended to other states including Florida and New York. Ignite Church, with two locations in Myrtle Beach and Conway, has been working with Meals on Wheels every Saturday afternoon to provide food for anyone in need. While still providing spiritual “food” every Sunday virtually, many church members have been working hard to provide nourishment for the body as well. When Tidelands Health reached into their stockpile of masks, they found the elastic strands to be too corroded for use. When local resident Tara Grinna found out that thousands of masks would have to be thrown away, she stepped in with a creative way to eliminate them from the landfill, and give them a vital purpose to boot. As the owner of Tara Grinna Swimwear in Myrtle Beach, Tara opened her Conway factory and asked for volunteers to help. Using the sewing machines in her factory and elastic strands donated from a local textile company, the volunteers refurbished and redistributed the masks.  Across Horry County, vigils and prayer services have been held in keeping with CDC guidelines for social distancing, to show appreciation for our many hard workers in the healthcare industry. Friends and neighbors in Carolina Forest have been working together to help too: some make face masks for others in need, others volunteer to do shopping for those who are elderly, have pre-existing medical conditions, or are considered in a high-risk group. Physically, we’re remaining more apart, but mentally and emotionally, we support one another and stand together, both in Carolina Forest as well as across the state. The good that people continue to do uplifts and inspires us all to offer what we can to others.

Charlie Sports His Research Cap and Explains Spring Traditions

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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 celebrates all the delights that the May season has to offer and gets in some additional relaxation time inspired by social distancing. “Since we’re all social distancing these days, I’m taking some time to self-pamper a bit more. For me that means extra long naps in the sun; practicing some of my favorite stretches, like downward-facing dog (how could it not be my favorite? My species practically invented it), and the lion’s breath.  Megan also gave me a mud bath (makes my fur extra shiny), and together we tried the old cucumber on the eyes trick— but I got confused and ate mine. Hey, what do you want? I may be literary but I still have my instincts. I now know that cucumbers aren’t really my cuisine d’choice but it’s all part of the journey my friends. Now when I’ve had enough of relaxation, that’s when I settle down with my dog bowl of water and engage in my next favorite thing to do after eating, sleeping, and being loved on— research. May has always felt like a soothing, reassuring kind of month to me. As if it’s saying, ‘don’t worry, all will be well. Summer is on its way just behind me.’ If May had a personality, it would be light, refreshing, upbeat, dancing, and celebratory. So recently, I felt inspired to look a little more deeply at the customs and traditions that people have employed across the ages to usher in this month. Over 2000 years ago and possibly longer than that, the Romans celebrated the advent of May as the start of summer, with a festival called Floralia. This festival celebrated the Roman goddess of flowers, Flora.  As one of the most ancient goddesses, she was also one of the most important, as she was responsible for everything that grew and flourished, and therefore, fed and nourished the people. The festival was marked by dancing, the gathering of flowers, and general merriment, as well as more licentious-themed theatrical performances to further commemorate the importance of fecundity. In time, the festival became an official Roman holiday, with customs and practices that varied but were still centered on the importance of flowers. People would scatter seeds and wore fresh wreaths of flowers in their hair.  The Celts had their spring celebration in the form of Beltane— a word which roughly means “return of the sun.” The long, cold winter months were also dark that far north of the equator. The sun-starved people believed that during the winter months the sun was held prisoner, and only released in the spring and summer to rule the sky. The people would celebrate the sun’s return with fire ceremonies, feasting, and rituals to safeguard the land, people, cattle and crops. It was one of the most significant rituals for the Celts. Over time, these rituals died out to be replaced with the European custom of Maypole dancing on the first of May. Origins of how this practice began are a bit murky, but it easily could have been a natural extension of people gathering, dancing and celebrating.  By the 1300s, it was a popularly entrenched practice amongst the people of the British Isles and continues in some parts of the world to this day. Participants gather around a large pole holding brightly colored ribbons, and dance around it in a circle until the ribbons are wound, and then dance the other direction to unwind them; the action a symbol of the lengthening days.  I just love learning about the ways that ancient people celebrated the seasons. How about you?  What are you doing this May to celebrate the longer days and the blossoming beauty all around us?” Until next time,

What Matters?

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Emma’s Health Talk During these tumultuous and confusing times, Emma believes it is important to count your blessings and evaluate what really matters in life. After reading what she has found to be important, we challenge you to do the same and hope your list helps to refresh your mind. by Emma Ware What matters in life is a question we are all challenged to find answers to during this time of social distancing. Separation from all we remember as normal has been overwhelming for some and a minor disruption for others. Now we will be challenged with trying to slowly return to a different set of social living adjustments when we are given the go ahead by our government officials. The question we face individually is, what really matters in life?  Everyone will have their own story and personal experiences but the adjustments we make will answer that question. What this has taught me and my family is the importance of learning how to choose my battles. Life is way too short to hurt the people we love in order to be right. I’ve learned that even when one is right, right can be wrong. So, with that being said, these are my answers to the question: what matters in life? It matters and is important to me to appreciate the effort I see my family making in challenging times and tell them just how much I appreciate them. It matters for me to be kind when I’m challenged with a difficult task and have to make a choice to bless or wound with my words. It matters and is important to me to see the best in people I meet and remember to listen first, which is sometimes a difficult but necessary choice. It matters to me to recognize the responsibility I have as a citizen of this great country to serve my neighbors and community. It matters to me that I see how people are helping each other by sacrificing time, talent and resources for the benefit of those who are suffering loss or even family members. Our prayers are lifted daily for those who have lost loved ones. If sharing my answers has helped anyone who is looking for their own reasons for what matters, I’ve achieved what I set out to do. Please stay safe, remember to help who you can and thank those you love for being there. When this is behind us, come see me at 2798-D Howard Avenue in Market Common. Blessings,  Emma

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