On behalf of the Coastal Insider team, we’d like to give our gratitude to these wonderful and amazing veterans who have given their service for the love of their country. We thank you for all that you have done and do and your service!
For All of Your Gate, Fence, Shutter and Hurricane-Protection Needs by Melissa LaScaleia Gator-Strong Services of Myrtle Beach designs, installs, and services gates, fences, and hurricane shutters for their clientele along the Grand Strand and stretching into the Georgetown, Horry, Wilmington, Brunswick, and New Hanover County areas. The company is jointly owned and locally operated by Danny Vulin and Jim Leone. Danny met Jim when the former was the owner of Metro Fence, and Jim, the owner of Fence Source. Jim was a firefighter in New Jersey for eighteen years before getting into the fencing industry. “Jim was one of my distributors,” Danny says. “I sourced a lot of materials from him, and we were in contact often. Over the years, we developed a strong working relationship and a good rapport, and eventually decided to become partners. We merged our companies and opened Gator Fence together in 2017.” Danny grew up working in the fence business; and before Gator Fence, operated his company in the Grand Strand area for ten years. “When I first started, I was working out of a storage unit with one truck,” he says. “Today we have twenty employees and six vehicles. “We are an incredible team, and definitely like a family. The manager of the fencing division is Megan Dresner. She used to run a company called Independent Fence, and I used to purchase a lot of material from her. “The manager of the hurricane division is Jim’s wife, Anne-Marie Leone. Linda Harris handles all of our H.R. and bookkeeping; Jeremy Rickrode is our sales manager; Jeff Camp is the field supervisor; Tom Chuvala is our IT manager— he’s been with me for six years; one of our sales reps, Bill Lynch has known Jim since the 6th grade; and Dean Cooper, who runs our shop, has been here for five years. Our operations manager, Chris Mitchell, and salesman, Raymond Johnston just joined the family.” Danny lives in Wilmington, in Carolina Beach, and Jim, in the Market Common. Business partners Danny (left) and Jim (right) in Myrtle Beach. “Where we are right now, between Brunswick and Horry County, they’re two of the fastest growing counties in America,” Danny says. “The amount of people moving here increases all the time. The market is in a spot where we have a lot of new construction and new communities, and people need fences and gates. Everything is growing. And the range of territory we cover— from Wilmington to the Market Common, to Pawleys and beyond, ensures that we can meet all of our clients’ needs.” The company offers any kind of fencing for any need— privacy, decoration, safety— for pets and children, and around pools. They also install gates and higher-end security and access control systems for residences as well as commercial applications. The quality of their work and the extensive number of years both have in their industry garners them many high-profile jobs. “We’ve installed all kinds of access systems for communities and apartments, and have built fencing and gates for several baseball fields in the Myrtle Beach area as well as Coastal Carolina University,” Danny says. “We also installed gates and access control panels for the Wilmington and Myrtle Beach Airports.” Gator-Strong manufactures the fencing for their vinyl fence at their facility in Myrtle Beach, so they can custom design everything to their clients’ specifications. They also offer aluminum, wood, and chain link fencing, and more recently, hurricane shutters. “When Hurricane Florence hit in 2018, I evacuated to Augusta, Georgia, and Jim to New Jersey,” Danny says. “Neither of us could get back for two weeks, and our company was shut down for about a month because of the devastation in Wilmington and the flooding in Myrtle Beach.” The Gator-Strong Services team is like a family. Pictured together from left to right, Jim Leone, Danny Vulin, and Megan Dresner. It was then that the two began to look at expanding their offerings in the form of hurricane shutters. When preparing for a hurricane, Danny explains, it’s important to board up windows and doors, even ones that aren’t glass. “If a window breaks during a hurricane, the amount of water that can come through the glass is unbelievable,” Danny says. “Even if you don’t have breakage, the pressure can allow water to get into the seals of the window, and the water can then seep into the walls of your house. Recently I came in contact with a woman who was selling her house and had to replace an entire wall because of all the water damage that had accumulated over the years that she wasn’t aware of. Sometimes the damage is happening and you can’t see it, and it creates a lot of problems down the road.” Boarding up is important, but it’s also not feasible for many. Anybody who has used plywood knows how difficult it is to fit properly, and it doesn’t retain its structure with repeated use. The experience in 2018 led Danny and Jim to explore window and door protection options to offer the community. By 2019, they had opened an entirely new company, Gator-Strong Hurricane Shutters. And this year, merged it with Gator Fence to become what they are today— Gator Strong Services. They still offer the same services, but now, all under one name. The hurricane division designs, installs, and services all different styles of hurricane shutters including, storm panels, motorized roll downs, accordions, and Bahama shutters. “The panels are lighter and easy to put up in the event of a storm,” Danny says. “There is a permanent track around the perimeter of the window, and if a storm is coming, you install the panel. Roll-downs will roll down into place with a hand crank, or automatically, with the push of a button. We have options to accommodate and protect any window or door in seconds. We also pride ourselves in educating each customer in order to ensure that the type of shutter picked out will meet the customer … Read more
A Third Generation Furniture Store To Remember by Melissa LaScaleia Dianne Ray, the owner of Garden City Furniture, is the second generation of store owners in her family. And today, working in partnership with her son, Joey Ray, the tradition is carrying over to the third. During the Great Depression, Dianne’s grandfather moved his family from Marion, South Carolina to Florence, where fate introduced him to the furniture business. “A family friend, Mr. Rainwater, had a fire in his warehouse,” Dianne says in speaking about how her family started in this business. “And almost everything was destroyed but some metal beds. In knowing my grandfather needed work, Mr. Rainwater gave him the beds to clean up and sell. “They worked hard to get those beds in shape, then put them in the back of a truck and drove around selling them. The whole family, even the children got involved. They were farmers, so they were used to hard work and pitching in to get a job done.” Dianne’s father, Hubert Watson, continued in the industry, and eventually owned six furniture stores in the 1960s, in Horry, Marion and Georgetown counties— Garden City being one of them. In the ‘60s, sales people traveled throughout the area on a weekly route, selling furniture off a truck and collecting on accounts, which were paid with cash. There were stores, but they were not visited frequently. As an independent furniture store, Garden City Furniture offers special items and customized pieces for customers. Today, Garden City Furniture offers a nod to their roots as the oldest operating furniture store along the Grand Strand while maintaining their modern, forward-moving focus. Their 40,000 square foot showroom is filled with quality furniture at a great value in a variety of styles— including beachy, traditional, modern, rustic, and transitional. “The second home investment here is very strong,” Dianne says. “So over the years we’ve honed our ability to cater to the tastes of people everywhere who come from everywhere— including retirees, who have different preferences. We keep evolving as peoples’ needs change, and constantly revisit the best ways to serve them in the process.” For Dianne, who’s been in this industry now for forty years, Garden City Furniture’s integrity as a business is of paramount importance. “We have established ourselves in the area as being a furniture store that people can trust,” she says. “We want customers to be happy with what they’ve chosen and we do the best we can to make sure that happens. If we don’t have what you’re looking for, we’ll research it till we find it for you. “Our sales team is trained in how to put together a whole house, or part of one, and will work with you personally on your color scheme and pieces. We take pride in knowing that they are knowledgeable about what they’re doing. When people walk in the door to shop for furniture, we hope we give them the best experience they can have. Garden City Furniture prides themselves on their reputation as being a furniture store that people can trust. They aim to always give customers the best possible service and experience. “I don’t care if they remember our name, I want our customers to come in and ask for the person who helped them the last time. ‘I’m just furnishing you with a palette,’ I say, but my team are the ones I want the customers to recognize.” As an independent furniture store, Dianne can offer special items and customization of pieces. “We do the best we can to make everybody happy,” she adds. Many of Garden City Furniture’s customers elect to customize their choices or purchase pieces right off the floor. And the company can deliver within two days. “The quality of our furniture and the service that we offer can’t be compared,” Dianne says. “These are pieces that you won’t have to replace in a couple of years. We look hard and long at furniture before we offer it in our store. After forty years of going to the furniture market, it takes a lot for me to say, ‘Here’s a great product.’” Garden City Furniture Globe Phone Map-marked-alt Facebook
A National Homebuilding Company with a Local Presence And Family Feel by Melissa LaScaleia Locally, D.R. Horton serves the entire Grand Strand area, from Shallotte, NC, to Pawleys Island, SC, and inland to Conway and beyond. While D.R. Horton is a nationwide organization, the Myrtle Beach division is served by a group of seventy-five locals who live and work in the community and treat their clients like family. As the nation’s largest homebuilder by volume since 2002, the company’s size affords them greater buying power, which creates more value for the customer. Forty-two years ago, Donald R. Horton had a vision of livable and affordable new homes built with unmatched efficiencies and uncompromising quality, and a business that would grow by making customers’ dreams a reality. That philosophy of creating value every step of the way was the company’s signature focus when Horton unveiled his first neighborhood in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area over four decades ago. As the company grew from a local homebuilder to a regional homebuilder, to ultimately the largest homebuilder in the United States, that philosophy has never wavered. Today, D.R. Horton continues to demonstrate their leadership in residential development through design innovation, superior craftsmanship, and responsiveness to the needs of their customers. In the past five years, the company’s standards have garnered a following of satisfied customers— as one in every four people in Myrtle Beach buys a D.R. Horton home. Kate Barr has worked with them for a little over three years as a sales agent for the Meridian and the Summit at Meridian, developments in the Market Common. Meridian altogether was the number one best-selling community in the tri-county Grand Strand area in 2019. “D.R. Horton is a brand that focusses on treating customers like family,” she says. “And I support those values. I love representing the homes and community of Meridian— as it really is the ideal location in Myrtle Beach. It is close to everything and has so much to offer. We’re a part of the active Market Common lifestyle, amenity-rich area.” The Meridian is a master planned community with resort-style amenities featuring two collections of homes— standard single-family, and luxury-based, higher-end homes which feature more upgrades. D.R. Horton offers the lowest pricing on single-family homes for the Market Common area. The new amenity center and pool at Meridian with a zero-entry feature and baja shelf. The Meridian’s recently opened amenities include a resort style pool with a zero-entry feature and a baja shelf— an expansive shallow-water step that serves as an entry point into the pool. The baja shelf is appealing for adults who want a lot of sun and only a little water, and is perfectly suited for small children and their parents to play in with ease. There’s also a hot tub, an air-conditioned pickle ball court, corn hole and fire pit areas, and sidewalks and walking trails throughout the entire community. D.R. Horton is currently working with the City of Myrtle Beach to tie their walking trails into those at the Market Common, and in general, is keeping pace with the growth and expansion happening along the Grand Strand. “There is a continuous focus on buying land in desirable areas where people want to live,” Kate says. “New designs are always coming out, along with innovative upgrades and features based on surveys D.R. Horton conducts and the feedback we receive from customers about what they want.” “One of the biggest things that sets us apart is that we have homes for every stage of life,” she adds. D.R. Horton’s Myrtle Beach division offers four lines of homes within its family of brands: Express Homes provide entry-level homes for value-focused buyers; D.R. Horton’s flagship brand provides homes that are engineered for maximum livability and value for the price; Emerald Homes provide a luxury option for the move-up buyer; and Freedom Homes are geared toward active adults who are looking for a low-maintenance home as they head towards retirement years. “We have so much variety,” Kate says. “We have homes in over eighteen communities in the Grand Strand area, so if you want a D.R. Horton home, we have something for everyone in every area, that can meet every price range. There are few times someone calls me and says they want something that I can’t find for them. We have a strong presence here.” The Meridian and the Summit at Meridian communities are located at 2913 Skyler Drive in Myrtle Beach. They are available for viewing Monday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm, and Sunday from noon to 6pm. Community model homes are open for viewing M-Sa 10am-6pm; Su noon-6pm. D.R. Horton Globe Phone Map-marked-alt Facebook
Pets are Family Members Too by Melissa LaScaleia Cindy Bright is the owner of Einstein’s Dog-Sitting Service, LLC & Cat-Care, a pet service for people who are busy, working, or away from home and want to make sure that their pets are well cared for in their absence or while they are tending to life’s other obligations. Cindy offers 30, 45 and 60 minute visits for dogs. Additionally, she can create a customizable schedule, offering any combination of those times to suit her clients’ needs. “A mid-day dog walk is anytime from 11am to mid-afternoon,” Cindy says. “It includes going outside for a walk and potty break, playtime, fresh water, and a treat. I also do in-home visits for both dogs and cats. I’ll take dogs out two to three times a day for walks, or to play in the backyard, and visit cats one or two times a day, depending on what the owner wants. Cat-care visits last for 30 minutes.” Cindy administers any medications the animals take, and gives them water and food according to the schedule the owner requests. She also provides transportation to and from the groomer or the veterinarian for scheduled appointments made by the pet parents, if needed. In addition to dogs and cats, she also cares for birds, fish and rabbits. “As far as in-home visits for those out of town,” she says, “I take care of the home as well: the lights, curtains, trash, mail, TV/radio, and watering plants. This gives the home a lived-in look.” Cindy worked as a registered nurse in hospital emergency rooms for twenty-seven years as a career. “I was looking for a change,” she says. “And one day, my neighbor needed to go out of town and asked me to take care of her dogs while she was gone. I had so much fun, I thought, ‘I can do this.’ I got some books and began doing research, and decided to start my own business. Now I’m in my thirteenth year as my own small business owner. “Being a nurse is very helpful in caring for pets. Many pets get medicines, and a lot of pets get the same medicines that people do. The equipment used and ways of administering the medicines are very similar.” Cindy has a list of accreditations. She is a member of Pet Sitters International; her company is bonded and insured; she is certified in Pet CPR and First Aid; and has background clearances. Her business is licensed and renewed in Horry County yearly. What’s her favorite thing about this career? “Every pet has their own personality,” she says. “And that is the best part— getting to know who they are.” Einstein’s Dog-Sitting Service, LLC Currently offering services in Myrtle Beach, Socastee, Surfside, Garden City, and Murrells Inlet areas. Globe Phone Facebook
Take a moment to celebrate our Veteran Mr. Larry Williams. Read all about his story on this months edition. Thank you for your service!
Harley Davidson Biker Chic and Math Geek by Melissa LaScaleia Introduce me to your family. I live with my boyfriend, Bob Yockey. I have two boys: Ryan who is 27, and Tyler, who is 22. My mom and dad live in Murrells Inlet. Where are all the places you came from? Where do you live now? I’m from the Detroit, Michigan area. We live in the Socastee area now— about .3 miles from where I work. Why did you move to Myrtle Beach? Because of the lack of snow. I came here in February 2009 for a visit. It was 68 degrees and I was hooked. What is your favorite place in Myrtle Beach? My two favorite restaurants are Villa Romana for Italian, and Angelos for steak. My favorite place is my pool. I’m a pool person, I have one in my backyard and love to swim. What do you like the most about living here? The weather. I like to get outdoors and be active. How has your lifestyle changed since moving here? It’s a completely different life. Before, I was an executive director for American House Senior Living Residence. I had always been interested in styling hair as a hobby. When I moved here, I began to do it professionally and realized I had a passion for it. Today, I’m the manager of Infinity Hair Salon. Now, instead of taking care of people and staff within a corporate setting, I’m in an interpersonal relationship with coworkers and the community in the realm of education. My clients are my extended family. I also went back into the dating world when I was 40. Now I rediscovered myself, and am doing work that I enjoy. Do you find people friendlier or more at ease? It’s a different mentality here— everything and everyone is on beach time. Once you get that rush, rush Northern mentality calmed down, then you can calm down and relax too, and ease into that chill lifestyle. It can be a shock for many in the beginning— beach time. What is one thing that your neighbors don’t know about you? I’m a math geek. I went to school to be a math teacher, but converted my bachelors into a business degree. I had gastric bypass surgery in 2004 that inspired me to change. What are your favorite things to do here? My boyfriend and I both have Harley Davidson motorcycles and we love to ride together and with our friends. You need nice weather to ride, and we love that we can do it here so often. I like to bowl, and also play darts. I love to make a fire at night and hang out with friends. Is there anything that you miss or would like to see in Myrtle Beach? I would love to have a venue that hosts big name rock band concerts.
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 gets feisty, and fights for his rights to be the top table-snitching, snack-picking pooch at the party. “Summer is officially in high swing. I just love the change of the seasons, but the reason why I love July is right up there with why I love other holidays. Two words for you (and no they aren’t belly rubs). They are table scraps. Yes, the advent of high summer season is the advent of grilling season, and all that glorious meat on the bones, that one way or another, will find its way into my belly. Usually I just look cute, and people give it to me (I’m hoping I age well or otherwise I’m done for), but there’s something about locating and snatching it when no one is looking that just completes me in a way I can’t explain. It makes me quite giddy just writing about it. So now here we are with our small little gathering for this year’s Independence Day celebrations. And boy am I excited. Burgers and chicken, and maybe even a suckling pig? I don’t think anyone eats that but in my fantasies there is one. There’s also watermelon, and little cupcakes, none of which thrill me that much, but they do others, which means more meat and bones for me. Yum. While I’m lolling about waiting for the festivities to commence (read: someone to drop something, or the first full and abandoned plate), I’m lying out on my back patio near the potted plants soaking up some sun and feeling the anticipation build. When suddenly, ah, ah, ACHOO! Something just crawled across my nose. Boy did that tickle. Good thing I sneezed it away. As I look around to check on the food status, I hear a voice: “Herbert! Oh Herbert, are you okay?” Huh? Who’s Herbert? I hope he’s not in charge of the grill if there’s potential he’s not ok. I look around the other direction, and I see… two ants. One sort of curled in a ball. As I put my nose closer to investigate, there’s an indignant: “You brute! Get away! Oh I knew this was a terrible idea!” “What?!” I exclaim. “Are you speaking to me? I’m generally known as a charming ladies-man and lover of belly rubs with a refined palette, but certainly not a brute.” “Your violent wind expulsion from your nose nearly killed Herbert when we were on our way to the picnic,” the little ant cried in misery. At this point, Herbert seemed to recover, because he uncurled himself with a, “I’m fine Flo, just settle down now. Maybe the nice dog can give us some tips.” “Well, I’m sorry for the accident,” I reply graciously, but you walked across my nose, and I had an automatic reaction. What sort of tips would you like?” “Well, we’re looking for an in to the party so we can get all of our extremities on some digs,” Herbert explains. “Uh…. No. Nope. Sorry, no can do,” I reply flatly. “I’m the top-dog here, and the only scrap-snitching, plate-licking life form on four legs at this party. There’s definitely no room to share.” At this, Herbert and Flo look crestfallen as much as two ants, one partially still crumpled, can. Moments pass. Then seconds. Then minutes. Then, I feel like a brute. It conflicts with my self-image. I can’t take it. “Oh all right,” I say. “I guess there’s plenty to go around.” Suddenly, that excitement feels so much more satisfying now that I’m sharing, as I look down at my two new little friends. There’s a plate nearby fresh off the grill, and I invite Herbert and Flo (and their 55 cousins?! What? How did this… Oh well.) over to the table for some plate-licking food-snitching. It’s a party indeed.” Until next time,
A Snapshot of Its Involvement in 20th Century History by Melissa LaScaleia This month, to honor our country on Independence Day and celebrate the values of freedom our country has always stood for, our history section highlights some snapshots from the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base’s involvement in missions and operations that defended our country. Although this is not an exhaustive list, we hope you’ll enjoy the trip down memory lane, and that the recounting will instill a sense of pride in the significant role that the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base has played throughout history since its inception— history which forms the backbone of the Market Common as we now know and love it. Tributes to the short but rich past of the base, and the men and women who served in our military with memorable contributions, grace the streets of the Market Common in the form of plaques. And Warbird Park is an outdoor history museum designed to keep the memory of the base alive in the minds of all who visit. 1939 The Myrtle Beach Town Council agrees to purchase 135 acres of land for $35 an acre to build the Harrelson Municipal Airport, in response to the growing city’s dire need for an airport. 1940 With the advent of World War II, the U.S. makes plans to take over the airport to train pilots for war. 1941 The U.S. Department of War acquired 6700 acres of land in Myrtle Beach in preparation to defend our country, including the airport. 1942 An Army Air Corps Base is officially established, with the official title: Myrtle Beach General Bombing and Gunnery Range. Within six months, the training of soldiers to defend America commenced. 1943 The base became the Myrtle Beach Army Air Field. German prisoners of War were held here. 1948-1949 Units deployed to key places around the globe acting as a presence to prevent and protect America from Soviet nuclear bombs during the Cold War. 1956 The deactivated base was reactivated and many new buildings erected to defend and strengthen America during the Cold War years. 1958 The 354th Fighter Day Wing, an illustrious Wing whose soldiers garnered many accolades throughout the years, is stationed at the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. 1962 Units from the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base deployed in response to the Cuban Missile Crisis, a 16-day crisis in which the Soviet Union deployed missiles to Cuba. The confrontation is considered the closest point during the Cold War that the U.S. and the Soviet Union came to entering a nuclear war. 1966 Units deployed to bases around Asia in response to the Vietnam War. 1980-1990 Fighter squadrons deployed to Germany, England, Egypt, Korea, Hawaii, Cuba, and Puerto Rico for training initiatives. Called Bright Star exercises, the intensive trainings ensure that pilots are at peak performance to defend and protect the homeland. 1990 The 354th Tactical Fighter Wing was the first unit deployed to Saudi Arabia for Operation Desert Storm and Shield in response to Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. 1993 With the conclusion of the Cold War, and cutbacks in military spending, the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base is closed, and lays dormant in preparation for a grand rebirthing. 1998 The Urban Village Redevelopment Master plan is created, a plan to transform the old base into a beautiful live-work area.
And His Home Away From Home— Orvis by Ashley Daniels Chris Wait is the new manager at the Market Common’s cornerstone store Orvis. But he’s in no way new to retail— he has a career in the industry that tracks back to age 16, working at Dick’s Sporting Goods and Galyan’s Trading Company. Hailing from Buffalo, N.Y., Chris moved to Myrtle Beach in 2016 post-Hurricane Matthew. After a 15-year career as a legal assistant, he made a career change back to retail once again, this time, with Orvis. Over the past few years, he’s grown with the company, and as of February 1, is the store manager. “I’ve always been an avid hiker, enjoy camping, and really all outdoor pursuits,” says Chris. “I learned fly-fishing as an Orvis associate with the help and patience of our amazing assistant manager, Michael Matthews.” Orvis is one of the oldest retailers in the United States. Founded in 1856, it is, of course, synonymous with the sporting traditions of fly-fishing and wingshooting. But the store offers so much more than equipment for specialized pursuits. Orvis is also known for its diverse, high-quality selections of men’s and women’s clothing— from outdoor techwear, to classic chinos and wrinkle-free shirts to wear to the office. And there’s also their dog department, stocked with everything from toys to treats, beds to harnesses, and much more. “I make sure we always have free treats, so I encourage all of our customers to bring their dogs inside to shop with them,” says Chris. Something else you can expect at Orvis is its tradition of hosting adoption events at the store. “We also occasionally host catered events featuring food and beer from our partners— Tupelo Honey and Gordon Biersch,” Chris says. “It keeps with our core values of giving back within the community, and it’s tremendously rewarding for my team. As an associate, I spearheaded our efforts with local animal rescues, organizing and hosting events several times a month. We’ve undertaken some really awesome fundraising efforts on behalf of our partners at All4Paws and Kind Keeper Animal Rescue in the past year.” In fact, Orvis commits 5% of its pre-tax profits to protecting nature, supporting communities, and advancing canine health and well-being. It’s all part of what Chris calls the highlight of every Orvis shopping trip—the experience. “We believe, as a company, that our customers remain loyal because we provide them with an unrivaled shopping experience with the absolute best in customer service,” he says. “The people who work here love what they do and support Orvis’ mission, and that translates to a more cohesive, fun-filled experience for our customers. “We greet our customers with a smiling face, and truly listen to what they want to ensure that they are getting exactly what they need. And that’s what our goal is. “I want our customers to leave our store not only with a quality product that fits their needs, but with the intention of coming back, again and again.” When Chris isn’t on the job ensuring that customers have the Orvis Experience, he enjoys spending time with his girlfriend, Elizabeth; her soon-to-be 8-year-old son, Keith; his parents, Chuck and Paula; and his sweet dog, Bailey. You’ll also catch him doing yoga, reading, listening to music, or throwing a fly, when time allows. Orvis Globe Phone Map-marked-alt
by All4Paws All4Paws Animal Rescue has reopened to the public and volunteers following the lifting of South Carolina’s Work-or-Home order. To adhere to current guidelines to help slow the spread of Covid-19, they are operating on an appointment only basis from Tuesday-Saturday between the hours of 11am-3pm. To schedule an appointment to see their animals, visit their website at All4PawsSC.org. During the Work-or-Home order, All4Paws’ staff worked diligently to continue serving owner-less, condemned, lost, abandoned and/or abused animals. All4Paws reached out to the community for help during this difficult time and was inundated with support. Community members from Pawleys Island and beyond responded to their plea for foster homes to care for animals, as they prepared for possible staff shortages due to Covid-19. All4Paws continued to conduct adoptions and performed virtual meet-and-greets with potential adopters and their prospective new furry friends in their foster homes, which allowed them the ability to continue finding forever homes for numerous cats and dogs. During this time, All4Paws prepared for the presentation of a lifetime. Prior to the start of the Covid-19 crisis, they submitted a grant request to the Petco Foundation Innovation Showdown for a project that has the potential to revolutionize animal welfare spay and neuter protocols across the country. All4Paws was selected as one of three finalists for a “Shark Tank” style competition. In late May, All4Paws presented its proposal for a “Vet Clinic in a Can” and was awarded 1st Place in the national competition, winning a grant of $230,000. All4Paws’s proposal includes a partnership with Clinic in a Can to develop a first-of-its-kind low-cost spay and neuter facility. Clinic in a Can has over twenty years of experience building low-cost human medical facilities out of shipping containers, which are then utilized around the world. All4Paws will use their model and product to customize two 40-foot shipping containers end-to-end to maximize throughput, and allow for affordable spay and neuter. The Vet Clinic in a Can will be developed on All4Paws’ new property located on Lance Lane in Pawleys Island. Like many rescues across the nation, All4Paws recognizes that one of the most effective ways to combat the issue of dog and cat overpopulation is to provide low-cost spay and neuter— not only to rescue facilities, but all underserved animals in the community, such as the feral cat population. The new facility will be a replicable model for other organizations to implement to meet their own needs, as the shipping containers can be customized. To complete the project, All4Paws needs an additional $59,000. To support All4Paws’ Vet Clinic in a Can, send your donation to All4Paws at 708 Petigru Dr. Pawleys Island, SC 29585. Please write “Vet Clinic in a Can” in the memo. All4Paws is a 501(c)3, non-profit no-kill animal rescue located in Pawleys Island. All4Paws Animal Rescue Globe Map-marked-alt Facebook
by Emily Smith So much of our economy, both local and state, is dependent on hospitality services. As we’re all learning to navigate the new normal with the presence of Covid-19, caution and cleanliness remain foremost in the minds of many. Many public places, like our favorite restaurants and local stores, are still adhering to social distancing standards while continuing to do their utmost in disinfecting every surface as often as possible. Although things may still feel sluggish, there are ways to get out, have fun, and support our local community businesses, all while staying safe and minimizing the potential risk to ourselves and others. Some guests have begun bringing their own utensils when dining out. And by now, it’s become second nature to keep sanitizer and wipes on hand. It’s important to keep in mind that the CDC encourages the use of sanitizer with an alcohol level of at least 60% to be effective. Continue to wipe off surfaces of items you’ll be touching, especially door handles, chairs, tables, carts, and baskets. We may not feel the need to wear gloves any more, but it’s still of paramount importance to avoid touching one’s face. Outdoor activities during this month have always been popular. Make sure when celebrating the Fourth and the summer season, that you make smart decisions. Visiting parks and beaches now means, more than ever, to bring your own of everything and avoid public facilities as much as possible. Be mindful of what you’re taking in and try to take out your own trash as well. Avoiding crowds during the summer can be a challenge, although it is still a good way to stay safe, especially for those at high risk. Your beach days should remain in small groups of family or close friends, and instead of going to fireworks displays, having a small display of your own (where regulations allow) can be just as fun and exciting. Southern hospitality is difficult to accomplish when we’re constantly reminded to keep apart. Yet the friendliness and patience that makes up part of the hospitality we South Carolinians are known for is always easy to have and share, six feet apart or not! That coupled with the aforementioned reminders will help us to work together and make the best of these changing times.
by the Town of Surfside Beach For locals of the Grand Strand, the advent of the summer season means longer days, morning walks on the beach (now with fur babies allowed), and the swirling of jubilant vacationers all around us. It’s hard not to be happy with so many people relishing the beauty of our surroundings on a daily basis. An autism-friendly town and destination, Surfside Beach is a safe, quiet seaside haven with a stellar public works department that works tirelessly to maintain our parks, streets and beaches. We also boast an engaged group of first responders that truly care about residents, visitors and public safety as their top priority. Residents and business owners have the opportunity to serve the community by participating on one or more of many committees—from beautification, to supporting the businesses in town, to seniors, to planning and zoning. There is something for anyone who has the desire and inclination to serve. And let’s not forget the array of top-notch restaurants, retail stores and service providers. A golf cart or bicycle is all that is needed to travel to each locale. Covid-19 has put a damper on events, gatherings, travel, and some fun, but the Family Beach is here and ready to provide you with a safe place to enjoy yourself—whether that be for a day, a week or forever. When asked, “Why Surfside Beach?” a common answer is, “It just feels like home.” For more information about the departments, committees, businesses, organizations, or Surfside as an autism-friendly destination, please go to www.surfsidebeach.org. For event and government updates and information please like and follow us on Facebook @ Town of Surfside Beach. Videos and tourist-related information can be found on Facebook @ Visit Surfside Beach.
by the City of Myrtle Beach Many residents love the convenience of hopping in their golf cart to go to the beach or grocery store, so it’s important to know the rules for using one. State law allows golf carts to be driven on public roads in limited circumstances. Here’s a handy refresher course on what’s allowed, and what’s not. First, state law requires that golf carts have a $5.00 decal from the SC Department of Motor Vehicles and that they carry liability insurance if you use them on public streets. In addition, golf carts may only be driven on the road: By a licensed driver age 16 or older. Only during daylight hours, and up to four miles from the registered address. Only on secondary roads where the speed limit is 35 mph or less. Golf carts may not carry more people than the number of seats. And they cannot be driven on primary roads, such as Kings Highway or US 501. A golf cart may cross a primary highway, but cannot drive along one. Golf carts also are not allowed on sidewalks, multipurpose paths or marked bicycle lanes. Just as you cannot drive or park a car in a bicycle lane, you can’t legally drive a golf cart in a bicycle lane. The above photos show a golf cart being driven illegally on Kings Highway, a federal primary road where the speed limit is greater than 35 mph, and one being driven illegally in the bike lane on Ocean Boulevard. You can get a resident parking decal for a legally registered golf cart, but such decals are tied to the owner’s automobile. Your personal-use vehicle must be registered inside the city limits and you must have paid taxes on it in order to be eligible for a parking decal for your golf cart, too. For those who want to take a golf cart to Myrtle Beach State Park, a special crossing exists on Kings Highway, south of Farrow Parkway. Seagate Village and Market Common residents can legally access this crossing by taking Mallard Lake Drive to the Barc Parc South Entrance road, then following that road around the shopping center. The internal parking lot exits at the signalized intersection on Kings Highway, where the state has installed a marked golf cart crossing over to the east side of Kings Highway. From there, you can travel to the State Park. For more about how golf carts are allowed on public streets, visit: https://www.cityofmyrtlebeach.com/i_want_to/learn_about/golf_cart_laws.php.
by Shawn Spickler, Fitness Director of NMB Aquatic & Fitness Center Summer is nearly here which means fitness is once again on the top of everyone’s mind. What are your fitness goals for this summer? Rather than letting your bathing suit or your appearance be the motivating factor for your fitness goals, why not think of something that you want to accomplish? Do you want to run and finish an entire 5k? Now is the time to start planning, and here are some tips to help motivate you. Pick an event Having a specific date or event in mind will provide built-in motivation while you are exercising and training. Pick an event that inspires you. Goals are meant to be achievable and also fun. Eat Healthy Set yourself up for success by feeding your body healthy meals and snacks that will fuel you for your exercises and keep you feeling trim and happy. Better Hydration Yes, we all know it is important to drink water, but as you start ramping up your activity in the warmer weather, proper hydration will boost your performance and how you feel. If drinking water begins to feel monotonous, try adding some fruit or even mint. Set a plan Don’t be a rudderless ship. Join a fitness class or hire a personal trainer to help you prepare for and reach your goals. Remember to start small and build on your new training program. Make a habit Just like old habits die hard, new habits are even more difficult to form. Make your exercise a daily routine and you will have a higher chance of sticking to it. Habits can be a good thing. If you like “to do” lists, try adding exercise onto yours and feel the satisfaction in checking it off every day. I have always appreciated the process of working towards my goals much more than achieving the goal itself. And, once you reach that summer goal, you may even find yourself thinking about what you will do next. Continue your summer commitment and enjoy year-long health and wellness.
by Little River Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center We are getting back to business and figuring out what our new normal is. Many things have changed and we are all in a learning process together. As we begin to get out and about, remember, these changes are new to the businesses and their employees as well. It will take some time to get used these changes and evaluate how to be more efficient in our operations. So, let’s be patient and kind as we navigate our new path and understand what this new normal means for everyone. Our most engaging social media post of late has been a plea to support small businesses for their marketing and advertising efforts during these trying times. Thank you for supporting our community. Small businesses are the backbone of the Grand Strand. The Small Business Development Center, a partner of the Small Business Administration, defines a small business as one with less than 100 employees. In our area, more than that are known as our larger businesses. Most businesses in Little River are 1-5 employees including their owners. They make up our community. And, they are the most adaptable, if they have the resources. We need to support them in order form them to have the resources they need to stay open. Thank you for being a partner of our community and supporting our local businesses by shopping local. We are in awe of the way we have all changed to get back to business safely, the extraordinary best practices that have been implemented, and the ingenuity of our business leaders. The saying goes that it takes a village. Together we can rebound and make our village thrive and flourish!
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