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All4Paws Animal Rescue Reopens to the Public with Plans to Expand

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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

Navigating Our New Normal

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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.

Surfside Beach— Way More Than a Pier

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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.

State Law Governs Golf Carts on Public Roads

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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.

North Myrtle Beach Fitness Goals for Summer

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The Coastal Insider

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.

Shop Local in Little River

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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!

Business As Un-Usual

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by Little River Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center The Little River Chamber has been working hard, diligently vetting all of our information and resources throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, to be your trusted resource for timely and accurate information about what’s happening in our neighborhood. The product of our labor is a single resource page on our website which we invite you to visit: littleriverchamber.org/blog/covid19/. In an effort to avoid Covid-19 fatigue, we curated this resource for you so as not to overwhelm your inbox and social media with multiple daily messages. We have also published an eBook, Getting Back to Business, to help support the local businesses in our community as they consider next steps as we begin to reopen. The eBook can also be found on our resource page. Now that restrictions are relaxing and we are getting back to business, the chamber is featuring our members by spotlighting our area businesses. We are showing what they are doing differently now, and how they are incorporating creative innovations into their daily business practices. We are also showcasing the feel-good stories that our members shared with us for the past months—  and there are plenty! Check out our Facebook page to share in these amazing tales of flexibility and resiliency. The lessons we learn create the foundation for a stronger future. Our community is beginning to reemerge. And many of the innovations we adopted are things we can continue to use going forward. We may be doing things a little differently, so as we like to say, we are getting back to business as un-usual. 

Now Open in Carolina Forest: Hotworx Fitness Studio

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by Emily Smith The weather is heating up and now your exercise sessions can too with the newly opened Hotworx fitness studio. Local franchise owners Monte and Gail Porter began the process of opening the studio at the beginning of the year. The Hotworx company was started by Stephen P. Smith in 2014, and currently has over one hundred franchise locations throughout the nation. Located at 2030 Oakheart Road in the The Shoppes at Forest Square, and neighboring Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, it is the first of its kind in Horry County. Along with Planet Fitness around the corner, and Burn Boot Camp a few doors down, Hotworx is one in a number of new additions in the Carolina Forest area providing workout options for the community.  The concept behind Hotworx is the combination of yoga and low-impact exercise in an infrared sauna. Multiple small saunas make up the fitness studio, plus an added (and unheated) room for lifting weights. Inside the saunas are screens where a virtual instructor guides users through 30-minute sessions, or a High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) course for 15 minutes.  Adding the infrared heat to a workout has many benefits, according to the Hotworx website (hotworx.net). The heat increases the temperature of the body, which speeds up a person’s metabolism and decreases the amount of time needed to warm up. Using isometric workouts such as yoga and pilates is also meant to accelerate the detoxification of muscle groups and increase circulation. Working out in these saunas is supposed to replace the need for longer sessions, but help people see the same or similar results. The heated rooms are smaller as well, typically fitting only three people at the same time, and each can be adjusted to find the best temperature for your workout.  Our local Hotworx location began accepting memberships a few months ago at about $60 per month. A membership here allows 24-hour access to the saunas, plus with virtual trainers and no set class times, a workout can be whenever you want it to be. Interested parties can call 844-446-8979 to get in contact with a representative and learn more about this steamy way to workout.  Open all the time for members, and staffed Monday through Thursday from 11am to 8pm; Friday from 9am to 6pm; and Saturday from 11am to 4pm.

Electric Bikes Join NMB Community

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by Angel Rabon The North Myrtle Beach Parks & Recreation Department introduces electric bikes to the community at the North Myrtle Beach Parks & Sport Complex near the Soccer/Lacrosse parking lot. Myrtle Beach Electric Bikes is a local, woman and veteran owned business in North Myrtle Beach. They offer a variety of electric bikes for hourly rentals and conduct multiple tours in the park. They also offer multi-day rentals delivered to your home or hotel’s front door on the Grand Strand. What is an electric bike? They are a regular bike but with a small integrated electric motor. The motor is used for propulsion and provides a gentle boost or enough power to conquer almost any hill and have a good time doing so. E-bikes, as they’re commonly called, are gaining in popularity across the country, and taking a large market share away from conventional bicycles. E-Bikes use a rechargeable battery and can travel up to 20 mph with a range of 45+ miles. One of the best things about electric bikes is that they give you the ability to put in as much or as little effort as you choose— all while enjoying the outdoors. You’re free to pedal like crazy, doing all the work, or if you’re in a hurry, let the pedal assist or throttle get you there quicker. Myrtle Beach Electric Bikes has a fleet of Rad Power Bikes, also called Fat Bikes, capable of navigating on-road and off-road surfaces comfortably and safely with an option to pedal with assistance or just twist the throttle (or both) to get moving. Electric bikes are a fun, healthy, cost efficient, environmentally friendly, easy way to get around. Myrtle Beach Electric Bikes Facebook Globe Phone Map-marked-alt

Beach Rules for Your Safety and Enjoyment

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by the City of Myrtle Beach Warm temperatures are officially here, which means more time on the beach. Here is a handy list of rules and regulations for beach-goers. The primary purpose of these laws is to protect everyone and preserve the beach itself. Voluntary compliance is the goal, but violations of the following ordinances are misdemeanors.  If you are cited, violations are subject to a fine of up to $500 and/or 30 days in jail, upon conviction. From May 1 through Labor Day, dogs are allowed on the beach before 10am and after 5pm. From the day after Labor Day to April 30 each year, dogs are allowed on the beach at any time of day. However, at all times, dogs must be on a leash of seven feet or shorter and owners are responsible for picking up after them and properly disposing of the waste. Dogs and bicycles are allowed on the boardwalk from 5am-10am from May 1 through Labor Day. From the day after Labor Day to April 30 each year, dogs and bicycles are allowed on the boardwalk at any time. Again, dogs must be on a leash at all times and owner must pick up after them and properly dispose of the waste. It is illegal to disturb or damage the dunes, the sand fencing, or the sea grass and sea oats. Stay on the boardwalks and marked paths.  Littering is illegal. Please use the trash and recycling containers provided. Alcohol is not allowed on the beach. Glass containers and bottles are not allowed on the beach. Metal detecting is allowed on the public beach, but not in the dunes, the street ends or any other public property. Commercial activity is prohibited on the public beach. Non-commercial weddings (where no one is being paid) are allowed without a permit. Commercial weddings are not allowed. It is illegal to discharge, sell, store, or possess fireworks within the city, including the beach. Fireworks displays by pyrotechnic professionals may be approved if permitted and supervised. All fires are prohibited on the beach, including barbecues and bonfires. Items may not be set up on the beach before 8am and must be removed from the beach by 7pm, daily. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, only circular umbrellas up to seven-and-a-half feet in diameter are allowed. From the day after Labor Day until Memorial Day, tents and canopies up to 12-by-12 square feet are allowed. Umbrellas must be in line with or behind the lifeguards’ line of umbrellas or landward of the mean high tide line. Tents and canopies, when allowed, must be 10 feet behind the umbrella line. Thong bathing suits are not allowed on the beach or in public. Paid parking is enforced from 9am to midnight, seven days a week, from March 1 through October 31. (A few meters may begin earlier, as posted.) We hope you enjoy your visit to the beach. As the saying goes, please leave only footprints.

Downsizing is Not a Dirty Word

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by Kevin Gunn In real estate we see it all the time: clients selling larger homes and moving into smaller, more manageable ones.  Unfortunately, this real estate strategy, often referred to as downsizing, often comes with a negative connotation. But it shouldn’t. So, let’s change the terminology to reflect more accurately the intent. Let’s go from downsizing to right sizing, and talk about the benefits as well as how to make it a smooth transition. The benefits of right sizing depends, firstly, on your needs. Are you looking for lower maintenance costs? To join an active community? To reduce cleaning time and maintenance? To cash in on home equity? Or to be closer to family?  No matter what your reason, be sure to be clear on the why behind your decision. When you can pinpoint what’s important to you, it will help make lifestyle changes much easier. When you’ve made the decision to right size, start taking small steps to prepare yourself for living in less space. For example, close off a room you seldom use. You will often find that many rooms in your home which are seldom used can easily be forgotten. Start looking at smarter ways to store items in your home. Could you de-clutter your home? Maybe a garage sale is in order to start to see yourself with less stuff. Preparing in advance can help ensure a smooth transition when going from large to smaller in terms of space. However, by preparing in advance, you can eliminate the stress of feeling pressured to sell your home quickly.  Also, it is a good idea to be sure your home is under contract before you commit to buy or rent another home. If you’re thinking about moving into a condo, be sure to carefully read all homeowner association documents so there are no surprises. Right sizing doesn’t have to be stressful when planned properly.  If you’d like to receive our fully customized-approach-to-downsizing brochure, simply email us at admin@hrgoffice.com and type “downsizing” in the subject line.

The Father’s Day Crusade

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by the Town of Surfside Beach In terms of national recognition, Father’s Day is a relatively new holiday; Richard Nixon signed it into law as a permanent holiday in 1972. Its origins, however, stretch back a bit farther; it was first celebrated in Spokane, Washington, on June 19, 1910.  Father’s Day was the brainchild of Sonora Smart Dodd, whose father, the Civil War veteran William Jackson Smart, was a two-time widower who raised his six children alone.  After hearing a sermon about Anna Jarvis’s Mother’s Day at Central Methodist Episcopal Church in 1909, Sonora told her pastor that fathers should have a similar holiday to honor them.  Although she initially suggested June 5, her father’s birthday, the pastors did not have enough time to prepare their sermons, and Washington celebrated the nation’s first statewide Father’s Day several weeks later, instead.  On that first Father’s Day, church sermons across Spokane were dedicated to dad; red and white roses were passed out in honor of living and deceased fathers; and the mayor of Spokane and governor of Washington issued proclamations. During the 1920s and 1930s, a movement arose to scrap Mother’s Day and Father’s Day altogether in favor of a single holiday— Parent’s Day.  However, the Great Depression derailed this effort to combine and de-commercialize the independent holidays, as during this time, struggling retailers and advertisers redoubled their efforts to make Father’s Day a “second Christmas” for men. They promoted goods such as neckties, hats, socks, pipes and tobacco, golf clubs, sporting goods, and greeting cards. When World War II began, retailers began to argue that celebrating Father’s Day was a way to honor American troops and support the war effort. By the end of the war, Father’s Day may not have been a federal holiday, but it was a national institution. A bill to give national recognition to the holiday was introduced to Congress in 1913. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson went to Spokane to speak in a Father’s Day celebration; he wanted to officialize the holiday, but Congress resisted, fearing that it would become commercialized.  U.S. President Calvin Coolidge recommended in 1924 that the day be observed by the nation but stopped short of issuing a national proclamation. Two earlier attempts to formally recognize the holiday had been defeated by Congress.  In 1957, Maine Senator Margaret Chase Smith wrote a proposal accusing Congress of ignoring fathers for forty years while honoring mothers, thus “[singling] out just one of our two parents.”  In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation honoring fathers, designating the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day. Six years later, in 1972, the day was made a permanent national holiday when President Richard Nixon signed it into law. In other countries— especially in Europe and Latin America— fathers are honored on St. Joseph’s Day, a traditional Catholic holiday that falls on March 19. This June, the Town of Surfside Beach wishes all dads a healthy and Happy Father’s Day. Thank you for all you do.  Written with thanks to The History Channel/Wikipedia https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/fathers-day https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Father%27s_Day

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

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.

Get The Download on CityMac’s Schedule of Tech Classes

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by Ashley Daniels If you’ve acquired any sort of smart device, software or technology that was on your wish list, and now feel overwhelmed by how to use it, or simply want to learn more about the capabilities of what you own, the staff at CityMac are here to help. In addition to selling and repairing Apple products in the Market Common since 2012, CityMac also hosts three types of tutorial classes inside the store: group workshops, one-on-one classes and multi-week courses. According to Bill Molnar, VP of sales and marketing at CityMac, they host workshops for almost every skill level, from the basic how-to, to in-depth proficiency sessions for advanced users trying to get the most out of their devices. Group workshops are teacher-led, mostly beginner level classes for between six to thirty students. One-on-one classes are more specialized, and for students who need extra help or want advanced training on something specific. Multi-week courses are teacher-led classes that delve deeper on a particular topic over a few weeks time. Prices range from $29-$39 for a 90-minute workshop, to $59-$69 for one-on-one classes. According to Bill, the most popular classes are generally themed around the basics: how to use your iPad/iPhone; anything camera related; and how to use the photos app. “There are so many people out there that may have been Apple users for a few years but still feel they don’t really know the potential of what their device can do,” he says. “We hope to help them unlock that potential. We want to help people understand the technology, help them connect to it, and learn how to get the most out of it. We enjoy seeing the ‘Aha!’ moments on the faces of people when they master this piece of equipment they once thought was beyond them.” Bill maintains that all CityMac instructors are skilled in communication, so that they can effectively educate their students, rather than talking past or over them. Many students are sixty-five years or older, seeking out the classes to help stay current with the constantly changing technology. “The demo is pretty straightforward,” Bill says. “And, as phones are becoming more and more advanced, and cameras are becoming more of a key part of that, we’re expanding our classes to include learning how to master the mobile device.” Bill adds that one of CityMac’s most popular instructors just turned 80. “He’s been in tech his whole life, is a published author, and is a regular lecturer on some of the top cruise lines in the world,” says Bill. “He shares his knowledge of learning in a way that resonates with his students, and his classes fill up quickly with people of all ages.” Recently, this same instructor wrote a book in the style of the “iPhones/iPads for Dummies” series. CityMac is currently involved in its publishing, and the book will be available at a reduced price to all students registered to take a CityMac class. CityMac Globe Phone Map-marked-alt

Check into the Market Common’s New Pet Palace

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by Ashley Daniels The Myrtle Beach coastline is crawling with resorts, so why not have one for pets too? Five weeks ago, Dr. Gwynn Hardee opened the Elegant Pet Store & Resort in the Market Common, right next door to his veterinary clinic, Meadowlawn Animal Services. His pet resort offers only the finest accommodations for dogs and cats. Now while you’re away on a week’s vacation, you won’t have to fret about what to do with your faithful friend. Each of this resort’s forty rooms boasts a four-poster, pet-sized bed, complete with a headboard, and made-up with a fitted sheet and blanket. Many rooms come with flat-screen TVs and the option of a camera, so you can check in on your beloved pet remotely, anytime. Amanda, at the resort, also let us know that the posh pooch pampering doesn’t stop there; your pet will also receive a cozy nighttime tuck-in with a bedtime story each night, plenty of refreshing private walks during the day, and indoor playtime on the resort’s artificial grass pads. If you book four nights or more, your fur baby will also receive a free bath before she returns home in one of the resort’s two hydraulic self-baths. The baths are also available to walk-in customers for a flat fee of $19.99. The self-bath area is stocked with pet shampoos, brushes, towels, hair dryers, aprons, and your choice of colorful bandanas. The store portion of the establishment carries everything your pet could want, such as leashes, collars, unique toys, harnesses, treats, gourmet human-grade foods, clothes, nail polish and more. A standard doggie room is priced at $29 per night; a deluxe room is $35 per night; and a suite is $39 per night. The resort’s Feline Condo is $29 per night. Doggie daycare is available at $16.67 for less than four hours, and at $19.67 for four-plus hours. Elegant Pet Store & Resort Globe Phone Map-marked-alt

Inside Little River: A Local’s Perspective

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by Little River Chamber of Commerce & Visitor’s Center Little River, South Carolina is a popular destination for fishing, golfing, and dining. But there are so many options to choose from, so where should you begin exploring all that this quaint fishing village has to offer? To find out, we surveyed Facebook and collected the top answers as reported by locals.  Top Answer: Vereen Memorial Gardens. Helen Reece Graham says: “I love the beauty of a wooden path through the marsh.” Located in Little River along the Intracoastal Waterway on more than 115 acres of forest and marshland, this facility includes approximately 3 miles of nature trails and boardwalks that meander through its botanical gardens and along its waterfront. And that’s not Little River’s only scenic spot. Nancy Chamberlain Moon recommends: “A marsh tour with J&L Kayaks. There is so much more to our world that isn’t seen from Highway 17.” For a casual stroll, many recommend Cherry Grove Pier, especially at sunrise. Unsurprisingly, there were countless recommendations for the Little River waterfront. Mary Van Marter Mistretta says: “I always love eating down by the dock.” Popular restaurants within walking distance include Capt. Juel’s Hurricane Restaurant, Crab Catcher’s, Buzz’s Roost, and Patio’s. Another hidden treasure is La Belle Amie Vineyard, home of Twisted Sisters Wines. They are open year-round Wednesday through Saturday. It has grown into a popular spot to enjoy wine tastings, live afternoon music, and meet new people. While it’s located further south in Murrells Inlet, we can’t ignore all of the recommendations for Brookgreen Gardens. This beautiful botanical garden also houses American sculptures and a small Lowcountry zoo. You’ll also want to revisit them in December for Night of a Thousand Candles, their signature annual event which transforms the gardens into a sparkling wonderland with the soft glow of more than 2,700 hand-lit candles and hanging lights. Thanks to Natalie Rakoci who recommended visiting the Chamber of Commerce to “get ideas and info on where to visit— online or in person.” You can find us at www.LittleRiverChamber.org to do just that.

North Myrtle Beach Parks & Recreation Presents: The 4th Annual Touch-A-Truck

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by The City of North Myrtle Beach The North Myrtle Beach Parks & Recreation Department will host the 4th Annual Touch-A-Truck on Saturday, April 4 from 10am-2pm. The event will be held at the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sport Complex in the Wild Wing Café Soccer/Lacrosse parking lot. Admission is free. Touch-A-Truck provides a day for children of all ages to get an up-close, interactive look at many of the large vehicles and heavy equipment they only see on television or driving down the road. Everyone will have the opportunity to explore exhibits like dump trucks, tractors, fire trucks, police cars, race cars and more. This event also does double duty by educating youngsters about various aspects of the vehicles, such as their size and function. In addition to all the vehicles, this community event also features public safety information and other family fun activities. Join us for face painting; a sidewalk chalk competition; the chance to construct birdhouses with Keep North Myrtle Beach Beautiful; spot-camera eye screenings offered by the North Myrtle Beach Lion’s Club; and letter writing to soldiers abroad with the Grand Strand Blue Star Mothers. The City of North Myrtle Beach is proud to support families who have children with autism, special needs, and sensory sensitivities. There will be a sensory-friendly experience from 1-2pm, where all sirens and equipment noise will be silenced. This is a unique opportunity for children to explore vehicles of all types— public service, emergency, utility, construction, transportation, delivery, and those that are just plain cool— all in one place. Everyone is invited to come out to climb, learn and discover.

What’s in a Name? A Lot in Myrtle Beach

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by the City of Myrtle Beach Newcomers to Myrtle Beach may wonder why Farrow Parkway is so named or who Mr. Joe White was. The city has a vast collection of roads, buildings and parks named in honor of those who contributed to our city’s remarkable growth and progression. Here are just a few examples to satisfy your curiosity.  Nance Plaza at the intersection of Ninth Avenue North and Kings Highway was named for Daniel Wayne Nance and Mary Ellen Todd Nance in recognition of their significant contributions to Myrtle Beach’s early civic, business and religious growth. A master builder, Daniel Nance was responsible for many downtown buildings, as well as historic homes built along North Ocean Boulevard. Mr. Nance moved to Myrtle Beach in 1909, arriving by ox-cart.   Mrs. Nance’s family owned a large farm and fishery near Withers Swash. Together, the couple raised ten children while building and operating guest-boarding facilities during the city’s early years. Mr. Joe White Avenue is named for a humble shoeshine man remembered for his friendly smile and colorful personality. Julius “Joe” White was born in Georgetown in 1910 and moved to Myrtle Beach in 1930.   A self-described “shoe stylist,” he began shining shoes for a nickel in the sixth grade, using the money for lunches and Sunday School tithes. In the early years, Mr. Joe could be found shining shoes at local barbershops and the Ocean Forest Hotel. When that hotel closed, he settled into a chair at Woody’s Arcade Barbershop, off 10th Avenue North. Mr. Joe passed away in 1997, and the street was named in his honor in early 2002.  Mr. Joe never learned to drive, but bicycled to and from his home in the Nance neighborhood, always giving people a friendly honk and wave. In 1991, the South Carolina General Assembly recognized Mr. Joe White and his wife, Louise, for their exemplary lives. Rourk Street, which branches off of 82nd Parkway near the Grand Strand Regional Medical Center, is named for Dr. W.A. Rourk, an early physician in Myrtle Beach. During the 1930s and 1940s, when other doctors would not treat African American patients, Rourk did— and treated all community members equally and with respect. Farrow Parkway, which runs through the Market Common, is named for Lieutenant William G. Farrow of the U.S. Army Air Corps. A native of Darlington, SC, Lt. Farrow piloted a B-25 bomber over Japan during World War II as one of Doolittle’s Raiders. Farrow and his crew were captured in April 1942 when their plane ran out of fuel and crashed. He was executed in October of that year. Fred Nash Boulevard, which intersects Farrow Parkway, is named for a local resident who rescued an Air Force pilot whose T-33 trainer crashed and burned near the Myrtle Beach State Park Pier in 1958.   At age 71, Nash rushed to the burning aircraft and helped the pilot to safety. Nash was seriously burned and later received the U.S. Air Force Exceptional Service Award for his heroic actions. Myrtle Beach has a whole page with dozens of these namesakes on the city’s website, www.cityofmyrtlebeach.com.  Go to “I want to find” and “Honorary Namesakes” to read the full list.

Places to Worship This Easter

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by Emily Smith The growth of Carolina Forest has brought with it not only new businesses but an increasing amount of places to worship. This time of year holds meaning for many, and it is likely that within our neighborhood you can find a place to celebrate and nurture your soul. Carolina Forest Community Church is located at 1381 Carolina Forest Blvd., and hosts similar services at different times on Sunday mornings. The first begins at 9:30am, then again at 11am. Call 843-903-1558 to speak to a member, or learn more at www.carolinaforest.org. Across the street, Saint Mark Coptic Orthodox Church at 1400 Carolina Forest Blvd., holds services at 8am on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. English Bible Study occurs every Saturday at 6:30pm as well. Visit www.copticmyrtle.com to learn more. At 2240 Carolina Forest Blvd, Amazing Grace Lutheran Church begins their service at 10:30am on Sundays, with classes for kids and adults before that starts at 9:15am. The church’s website, amazinggracelutheran.com, provides more information, and their contact number is 843-236-9134. Myrtle Beach Seven-Day Adventist Church is located at 2351 Carolina Forest Blvd., and welcomes worshipers on Saturday mornings. Song service begins at 9:15am, while worship begins at 10:45am. Contact them at 843-236-1450 or visit www.mbsda.com for more information. Celebration Presbyterian Church is across the road at 2300 Carolina Forest Blvd. They hold worship service at 11am every Sunday morning. A quick trip to their website, www.celebrationpresbyterianchurch.com, or a phone call to 843-903-0308 will give you detailed information. Ekklesia Christian Church is another new addition to the area. It is located up the highway at 2050 U.S. 501. Worship services are held Thursday evenings at 6:30pm, and twice on Sundays at 9:30am and 11am. For those wishing to learn more, visit www.ekklesiachristianchurch.com or call 843-443-7774. There’s a lot more to be found in our neck of the woods. There’s also the Joseph B. Bethea United Methodist Church, Grand Strand Baptist Church, The Well by the Sea, and Saint Stephen Church, all within a short distance of Carolina Forest. No matter how you prefer to worship, or what you are celebrating this spring season, Carolina Forest has a large enough selection to satisfy the soul.

Easter Traditions at The Family Beach

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by The Town of Surfside Beach Surfside Beach hosts many Easter traditions that are fun for the whole family.  The Easter Egg Hunt and Kid’s Fair takes place on Saturday, April 11, from 1-4pm at the Huckabee Sports Complex. The complex is located at 499 Spanish Oak Dr., Surfside Beach, SC 29575. The Hunt begins at 1 pm, and is open to the first 500 children who show up, ages 10 and under.  The Kids Fair will be held from 1-4pm with free inflatables, games, face painting, balloon art, concessions, and children’s train rides. Now in its 58th year, the Easter Sunrise Service began in 1962, and is sponsored by the Grand Strand Ministerial Association in conjunction with all denominations along the Grand Strand.  Historically, the service was held  by the Rev. H.E. King, pastor of First Baptist Church of Surfside Beach, in locations along the Grand Strand including: at the Pavilion in Myrtle Beach; at Crescent Beach in Little River; and at the waterfront in Surfside Beach.  The service is always open to the public, and all are welcome. Other churches not having their own sunrise service are invited to attend. This year, the tradition continues at the beach at the north side of the Surfside Beach pier on Easter Sunday, April 12 at 6:30am. Participating churches are Surfside United Methodist, Legacy Church, and First Baptist Church of Surfside Beach. John Rea of Legacy Church will deliver the sermon. Collections will be given to South Strand Helping Hands. Saturday, April 18 from 9am-noon, the annual Pet Fair at the Surfside Beach Barc Park, will take place. It is located at 1st Avenue North and Willow Drive. Ark Animal Hospital will conduct a rabies clinic. Local pet vendors and rescue organizations will be in attendance. All vaccinations will be available for dogs to receive; cats must receive their vaccinations at Ark Animal Hospital located at 1011 6th Ave. N. Ext. in Surfside Beach. While in Surfside Beach, stay and play a while. Try one of our great restaurants, peruse the shops, and hang out on our stretch of beautiful, groomed beach. More information on restaurants, shopping, parking and beach access can be found at www.surfsidebeach.org. Surfside Beach. The Family Beach.

This Too Shall Pass

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by Kevin Gunn Life is full of ups and downs. And this time, the challenges came at a time when economically, things seemed to be going pretty well— the stock market at all time highs, with the lowest unemployment figures in fifty years. Then, like a thief in the night, a foreign invader in the form of virus entered to disrupt the flow of our lives. It’s unsettling and uncertain, but it’s also a testament to our resiliency how quickly the people of our community can adapt and overcome the obstacles and challenges that we face when they present themselves. Just as when we’ve faced crises in the past, we see people doing what is necessary not just to survive, but thrive. When I speak to people in our community, I see that we truly are an optimistic people who simply do what is necessary during uncertain times. More than ever, right now, we need one another and are depending on each other to stay safe. People with no symptoms may be carriers of the virus. I strongly believe we should do all we can to keep ourselves and each other safe by practicing social distancing, and being as responsible as we can during this time. I also encourage people to continue doing what I already see them doing: things like supporting local restaurants, by choosing takeout. I hear of people leaving generous tips to help the service industry workers get through this period of time.  I see people coming up with new and exciting directions to take their businesses while they have the time to incubate and develop new strategies. I’ve heard a lot of people are taking the time to connect with friends and family that they haven’t been connected with in some time.  And I see people reconnecting with nature by enjoying the beach, taking a bike ride, going for a run, or a walk. Pawleys Island, quiet, off the beaten path, with miles of beach for walking, is a perfect place to explore right now. Life is flux and you can’t control it. But you can control how you react, how you help one another, and what you do with the time and resources that you have. Those kinds of decisions can make memories that last forever.

Little River Events You Can’t Miss in 2020

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North Myrtle Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival March 14, 2020 The parade starts at 9am followed by the street festival from 11 am – 4 pm. 843-280-5570 | Parks.NMB.us Horry County Fair April 24 – May 3, 2020 It’s 10 Days of fair fun. Fair Food. Fun Games. Kiddie Rides. Thrill Rides. Petting Zoo. Music. Racing Pigs. Character Meet & Greets. Live Entertainment, and more. www.myrtlebeachspeedway.com World Famous Blue Crab Festival May 16 & 17, 2020 You haven’t been to Little River if you haven’t been to the blue crab festival. The festival features live beach music, a kids zone, and approximately 300 arts and crafts, specialty food, and business expo vendors. 843-249-6604 | www.BlueCrabFestival.org Carolina Country Music Fest June 4-7, 2020 Are you ready to party? Every year, Carolina Country Music Fest brings over 30 of country music’s hottest artists to perform in Myrtle Beach, SC. carolinacountrymusicfest.com Conway Riverfest June 27, 2020 You’ll want to bring the family out for this one. Enjoy a kid’s zone, golf cart parade, food vendors, beer garden, artesian market, and fireworks extravaganza. www.conwayriverfest.com Aynor Harvest Hoe-Down Festival September 19, 2020 Visit Aynor for their token event, which includes hundreds of arts, crafts, and food vendors, a parade, live music, and children’s entertainment. 843-358-1074 | aynorhoedown.com Irish Italian International Festival September 26, 2020 Featuring food from local restaurants, two stages of live entertainment, street performers, arts and crafts vendors, and dance groups all with an Irish/Italian/international theme. 843-280-5570 | Parks.NMB.us Little River ShrimpFest October 10 & 11, 2020 Previously the Shrimp & Jazz Fest, the event is now musically inclusive, featuring a variety of live bands throughout the weekend. 843-249-6604 | www.LittleRiverShrimpFest.org  Loris Bog-Off October 17, 2020 If you don’t know what ‘chicken bog’ is, you need to be at this event. If you love chicken bog, you already know about this event. 843-756-6030 | www.LorisChamberSC.com The Great Christmas Light Show Late November through December The drive-through light show will feature over 2 million lights festively displayed along a 1.5 mile drive, with additional activities in Santa’s Village. 843-281-3805 | Parks.NMB.US Little River Events Globe

Family Fun Events in North Myrtle Beach

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by The City of North Myrtle Beach Pedal in the Park This event will take you and your family on a leisurely three mile bike ride around the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex, starting and finishing at the Amphitheater. The event has a superhero theme, and will be held Friday, March 20, beginning at sunset (approximately 7:15pm). There is also a 1-mile junior course option. Please note this is not a race, and despite the approximation of time, the event will begin promptly at sunset. Please bring your own bicycles. Wearing helmets is encouraged. The North Myrtle Beach Pilot Club will be in attendance before the event to educate everyone on Brain and Helmet safety. They’ll be conducting a short puppet show and are donating helmets to attendees before the ride takes off. Be sure to stick around after the event for our dance party with superhero themed activities that is sure to be a “heroic” time. The Parks and Recreation Department will provide complimentary water, lemonade, and light refreshments after the ride. This is a free family event that will be sure to get everyone moving. Touch-A-Truck The North Myrtle Beach Parks & Recreation Department will host the 4th Annual Touch-A-Truck on Saturday, April 4 from 10am-2pm. The event will be held at the North Myrtle Beach Parks & Sport Complex in the Soccer/Lacrosse parking lot. Admission is free. Touch-A-Truck provides a day for children of all ages to get an up-close, interactive look at many of the large vehicles and heavy equipment you only see on television or driving down the road. Everyone will have the opportunity to explore exhibits like dump trucks, tractors, fire trucks, police cars, race cars and more. This event also does double duty by educating youngsters about various aspects of the vehicles, such as their size and function. In addition to all the vehicles, this community event also features public safety information and other activities. There will be a segment on helmet safety by the North Strand Optimist Club, spot camera eye screenings offered by the North Myrtle Beach Lion’s Club, and an opportunity to write letters to soldiers with the Grand Strand Blue Star Mothers. There will also be face painting. The City of North Myrtle Beach is proud to support families who have children with autism, special needs and sensory sensitivities. There will be a sensory-friendly experience from 1:00-2:00pm, where all sirens and equipment noise will be silenced. Everyone is invited to come out to climb, learn and discover.  North Myrtle Beach Events Globe Phone

New Quality of Life Court Will Make Myrtle Beach Better

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by the City of Myrtle Beach Myrtle Beach’s new Quality of Life Court is expected to hear its first cases in mid-March. The goal of establishing such a court is to quickly address issues that negatively affect the quality of life here for our residents, businesses and visitors. Charleston and other cities nationwide use a similar court process to help create a safer and cleaner community. For one thing, bringing issues before a judge allows for faster resolutions. Problems are corrected more quickly, and that means happier neighbors. Violations that may earn a trip to the new court will include: illegal dumping, abandoned vehicles, noise complaints, overgrown grass, weeds and unkempt properties, illegal signs, and zoning violations and nuisances that affect the public’s health, decency, safety or economy. If a violation is observed, a police officer or code enforcement officer will issue an offense summons. The property owner or tenant then will appear in court to respond to the notice. The judge will hear the case and make a decision about how to proceed. Violations can be discovered by city staff in the course of their daily routines, as well as through regular inspections. Staff may notice illegally dumped material and investigate. Similarly, they may see a zoning or sign violation, which will result in a summons. Neighbors also can report violations to the city. From after-hours noise complaints to an out-of-control yard, your neighbors are keeping watch on how our community looks. The goal of the court is to make everyone aware of the rules and ensure compliance. Prior to establishing the Quality of Life Court, many of these cases followed a lengthy “rule to show cause” path. Correcting violations involved a public hearing before City Council.   From the first notice of a violation to a final resolution by council, that process could take six months or more. The city hopes the new court will reduce that time frame to only 30 or 45 days, at most.    The Quality of Life Court will meet monthly to start, at 2pm on the third Wednesday at the Ted C. Collins Law Enforcement Center.

Carolina Forest’s Huger Park

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by Emily Smith Carolina Forest pulses with an energy and growth all its own. Just drive into this area along the Grand Strand, and it’s no big surprise that there are changes abounding and communities growing throughout the entire area, from one end of the border to the other. Not too far down the street from the Carolina Forest Recreation Center, The Parks, a housing development, is expanding, and will continue to grow throughout the spring months. Some new houses have already become cozy homes while over fifty others are built and waiting for new owners to arrive. Ten ancient oak trees sit off to one side of the growing complex, while the amenities building is being finished up nearby. The building will house an indoor gym and pickle ball court. Outside of it, residents will have access to a swimming pool, fire pits, and a prep-kitchen and patio for outdoor dining. Once Huger Park is complete, there will be beautiful paths to walk along, as well as playgrounds for children. Both the recreation center and the Carolina Forest Library are just short bike rides away. D.R. Horton has dozens of floor plans from which potential future homeowners can create their perfect house. These plans range from single-story homes with one-car garages, to two-story homes with a three-car garage. In addition to developments like The Parks, apartment complexes like The Mosby offer rental choices for the area, while the growing, gated community at Indigo Bay provides larger and more luxurious homes. Because Carolina Forest is such a central area with convenient access to just about everything, its location is a constant draw for those looking to buy a home, relocate, or move to a more dynamic area. The influx of residents brings with it an increase in traffic. Consequently, the city has begun construction to widen Carolina Forest Boulevard— with the intention of alleviating some of the additional traffic the area is experiencing. The work is scheduled to be completed some time in the next year.

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