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Pawleys Island Real Estate Revival

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by Kevin Gunn Often when people speak of real estate along the Grand Strand, the entirety of the area is referred to as Myrtle Beach.  But many people don’t realize that within the Grand Strand, we have mini real estate markets that sometimes can behave exactly in the opposite way to what the rest of the area seems to be doing.  Pawleys Island is no exception when it comes to that behavior.  The Pawleys Island and Litchfield area enjoyed the same stellar 2017 that most of the Grand Strand enjoyed, seeing the most movement in real estate since before the crash of 2008.  Then, Pawleys Island dropped 8% in activity from 2017 to 2018. The only good news for the area in 2018 was that the “Average Days on the Market” decreased by nearly a month. In many respects, the Pawleys Island market was the only “buyer’s market” along the Grand Strand for 2018. Price appreciation remained relatively the same from 2017. The rest of the Grand Strand enjoyed over 5% growth in home values. In terms of resales, Pawleys Island has found itself at the forefront of positive growth. For 2019, 724 homes have sold in the Pawleys Island market. With time still left to go, market analyzers are projecting a total of 750 homes will be sold. Even without that, Pawleys Island would rank among the Grand Strand’s leader in units sold with a gain of over 12% versus 2018.  For average sales price, as of December 2019, Pawleys Island has seen home prices rise from $349,793 to $376,825 this year, making for an 8% increase in home values.  We’ve mentioned that Pawleys Island was a buyer’s market last year. What determines if it is a buyer’s or seller’s market?  Quite simply, we look at three criteria from data: new listings, closed sales, and days on the market. As of this month, Pawleys Island has seen a decrease in residential new listings of 9%. Meanwhile, closed sales have increased over the same timeframe by 15.8%, with days on the market virtually unchanged.  With less inventory coming on and more closed sales occurring, Pawleys Island is firm in the sellers market territory. Add to this record-low interest rates and a booming economy, and Pawleys Island is set for a fantastic 2020 real estate market.

Q&A with Faith Donnelly

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Massage Therapist and Yogini, Faith Helps Clients Unwind With Her Business, Sage Wellness by Melissa LaScaleia Introduce me to your family.  I live with my brother, Noah, and my two new puppies, Jack and Billy. My parents bred them. They are eight months old and a lot of work.       Where are all the places you came from? Where do you live now? I was born and raised on Long Island, NY. Then I lived in Virginia for fourteen years. Now I live in Myrtle Beach, in Socastee.  Why did you move to Myrtle Beach? It was the right combination of affordability and beach, and I thought I would do well professionally here, as I’m a massage therapist. This is a big retiree and vacation community, and retirees want to take care of themselves well, while the vacationers like to pamper themselves. What is your favorite place in Myrtle Beach? I like to visit Grand Park at the Market Common. I walk by myself or with my dogs, and watch teams playing sports, or spend time near the big lake.  What do you like the most about living here? I like that the dynamic of Myrtle Beach is always changing. There’s a big influx of people who move here in the summer, and a lot of activity, then in the winter, there’s a lot more quiet. No matter the season, it’s never the same.     How has your lifestyle changed since moving here? I spend a lot more time outside in nature, at the beach and the state parks. I have more freedom and inspiration and motivation since I’ve moved here. And I love the weather. I also started my own business, Sage Wellness, which offers yoga and massage therapy. I teach weekly group yoga classes at my studio. Classes are a custom blend of my own style based on traditional hatha sequencing. For massage, I specialize in traditional Thai massage, which helps people attain a wider range of motion with assisted stretching. I also offer deep tissue and hot stone massages.  What new activities have you taken up since moving here? Walking. The pups love it and the weather is great.  Do you find people friendlier or more at ease? I do. People are either retired or on vacation. Both things make them happy. I always get a friendly hello from strangers.  What is one thing that your neighbors don’t know about you?  If they don’t know, it’s because I don’t want them too… What are your favorite things to do here?  My favorite things to do are go to the beach, take baths, and read.

Get Active in Surfside Beach this New Year

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by the Town of Surfside Beach Now that the holiday season is behind us, many of us are probably committed to a New-Year-new-you resolution, which may entail losing weight or getting in better shape. Thankfully, and to help you stay on track with your goals, we live in a region where the weather is mild and the skies are blue, and a town where there is much to do.  Surfside Beach has a number of parks for everyone to enjoy— from visitors and residents, to children and seniors. So get on out there, enjoy some sun and activity, and pick your favorite locale. All Children’s Park is located on the corner of 10th Avenue South and Hollywood Drive. It contains two playgrounds, a picnic area, and restroom facilities. The park and play equipment are accessible to both physically challenged and able-bodied children.  The town also has two small Bark Parks located on Pine Drive next to the library. They are open from sunrise to sunset daily (closed on Wednesdays from 10am-noon for cleaning). Dogs must have a town license which costs $10 annually and can be purchased at Town Hall (115 US Highway 17 N.). Fuller Park is located on the corner of Surfside Drive and Myrtle Drive. It has two lighted tennis courts, a naturally shaded playground, and a picnic area with restroom facilities. It is conveniently situated next to the library.  Situated just off Glenn’s Bay Road on Spanish Oak Drive is the Huckabee Recreational Complex. This park has three lighted baseball fields, two picnic shelters, a tot playground and restroom facilities. The Complex is host to youth baseball and softball programs in the spring and the fall. The fields are also available for tournament rental. The park is open Monday through Friday from 7 am – 4 pm Monday.  In addition, Surfside Beach offers a picturesque park, called Martin Field, located on Dogwood Drive between 6th and 7th Avenue South, just three blocks from the ocean. It contains one lighted baseball/softball field, a covered picnic shelter, and restroom facilities. It is used for youth athletic practices, T-Ball, Coach Pitch and Machine Pitch games. Rental of the field is conducted by Surfside Beach Youth Sports Association. Adjacent to the ball field is Martin Park, a small waterfront recreation area located on Lakeside Drive and 8th Avenue South. It contains two shuffleboard courts, one horseshoe pit, two bocce ball courts, a tot playground, and four picnic shelters. Also located at this park is Floral Clubhouse, which accommodates approximately thirty-five people. The clubhouse is available to rent year-round.  Memorial Park, formerly Passive Park, is a peaceful area located on the corner of Surfside Drive and Willow Drive next door to the Surfside Library. Amongst the park’s beautiful live oaks, you’ll find picnic tables, a gazebo, and the Veterans’ Memorial wall and fountain. There are also lighted sidewalks for walking at night and six multi-use exercise stations, specially designed for seniors.  For rental of the fields, contact the Youth Association at www.surfsideyouthsports.com. For information on the parks, contact Public Works at 843.913.6360. For rental of the Floral Clubhouse contact Debbie Ellis at 843.650.9548 or dellis@surfsidebeach.org.

Getting Healthy In Carolina Forest

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by Emily Smith Though the New Year is a famously popular time to encourage new positive habits, becoming a happier, healthier person is a year-round commitment.  A few new additions to the Carolina Forest area, now and planned for the future, promise to encourage local residents each step of the way on their healthy regimens, no matter what time of year. Just over a month ago, Burn Boot Camp opened its first franchise in the Grand Strand. With a focus mainly on empowering women, this gym also provides workout camps for men, nutrition guidance, and complimentary child care programs, so parents can exercise without worry. To decide if their community is right for you, Burn Boot Camp offers a free, thirty-day new member trial period. To get in contact with Burn Boot Camp in Carolina Forest, call 919-324-4686 or visit them on their Facebook page @ Burn Boot Camp Myrtle Beach SC. The gym is located at 2000 Oakheart Road in the Forest Square center. Around the corner, the building where Gander Mountain once stood is being transformed into a Planet Fitness, the fourth and latest location along the Grand Strand. Although not expected to be finished until the second quarter of the year, the property owners are envisioning high traffic to the business, given its convenient location to Carolina Forest. Because the new gym only intends to occupy just over half the square footage of the building, we can expect another business or two alongside it. The new, soon-to-be Planet Fitness is situated at 1049 Glenforest Rd. If you want to get more in touch with nature, Carolina Forest Boulevard hopes to have a finished park with historical significance built later this year. Back in November, plans for Huger Park near the Carolina Forest Recreation Center began moving forward again after eight years of planning.  Surrounded by the growing residential development, aptly named The Parks, Huger Park will be within walking distance of the rec center. The land which connects the two will be the future spot of multi-purpose athletic fields. The main attraction of the park has always been the prolific, majestic oak trees, estimated to be upwards of 300 years old. Whether needing a structured training session, an individual workout, or some relaxing time to connect with nature, Carolina Forest continues to grow and accommodate the needs of its residents.  Change doesn’t happen overnight, but throughout this new year, expect to see these fabulous new additions to our community inspiring us stay active and healthy.

Emma’s Health Talk: Stress

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How Stress Affects Our Bodies and How We Undo the Damage by Emma Ware From overeating at Thanksgiving, to hurried last minute holiday shopping, to making New Year resolutions, who can say they didn’t experience any stress? Stress in general has a debilitating effect on our entire body. The body responds to our choice to ignore or react to stress, whether it is expected holiday stress, the unexpected stress brought on by circumstances beyond our control, or less obvious everyday encounters. Stress creates an excellent breeding ground for illness. The body responds to stress by undergoing a series of physiological changes that include increased secretion of adrenaline, elevation-of blood pressure, acceleration of the heartbeat, and greater tension in the muscles. Digestion slows or stops, fats and sugars are released from stores in the body, cholesterol levels rise, and the composition of the blood changes slightly. As a result of reactions, the body does not absorb nutrients well. It’s all an open door for illness to enter. Don’t despair— the following suggestions will help your body to stabilize. Of course, checking with your doctor is primary before embarking on any changes to your health regimen. Taking Ashwagandha, which is an herb that acts as a sedative and nerve tonic, helps. Take a vitamin B-complex, as all B vitamins are necessary for a healthy nervous system. Inositol, related to B-complex can help with panic attacks. Calcium and magnesium help with anxiety and nervous system function. Vitamin C with bioflavonoids is essential to support the adrenal glands. Gamma-or Gabba is important for brain function and acts as a tranquilizer. And glutathione, is an antioxidant that protects the cells against damage from stress.  Remember to check with your doctor when making any changes to your health regimen. Be sure to stop by with any questions at the office in Market Common.  2798-D Howard Avenue or call me at the office, 843 997-7037. Blessings and Happy New Year, – Emma

American Red Cross and Hurricane Dorian

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Hurricane Dorian in Retrospect by Melissa LaScaleia When Hurricane Dorian hit our shores towards the end of last summer, The American Red Cross responded up and down the South Carolina coast.  During that storm, they opened thirty-two shelters across the state which safeguarded more than 4,300 people, mostly in the Low Country and coastal South Carolina, Williamsburg, and Myrtle Beach areas.  It’s a testament to their dedication to providing relief to all people, that when there’s a need in a specific, local community, this national organization is quick to respond.   With this disaster, there were nearly 650 local and national volunteers. Volunteers from forty-three states across the country traveled to South Carolina to help.  Hurricane Dorian happened in late August. Myrtle Beach was spared a lot of damage, but there were forty homes across the state that were severely damaged, and approximately seven were destroyed.  In Charleston, South Carolina, Deanna Brown’s home was destroyed when a tree fell through the back of her house. The single mother of eight children removed herself and her family to the safety of a Red Cross shelter. She was so grateful to have a place for herself and her children to rest and be fed— and grateful for the Red Cross volunteers who interacted with her children, giving her time to process the experience and plan her next steps.  “It was devastating for me,” Deanna said. “I have such a large family. And that home was most of what we had. Red Cross has been great— and that has helped make this a little bit easier for me while I process everything.”  The Red Cross was able to offer her some financial assistance as well as referral support after the storm passed.  “This is what we do and what we’re all about,” says Benjamin Williamson, communications director for the Horry County chapter of American Red Cross. “We help families get back to a sense of normal and so do the generous folks who help us and volunteer with us.”     Although the impact was not too bad in Myrtle Beach, the damage caused sometimes is more behind the scenes, with things like infrastructure. “Dorian caused a lot of blood drive cancellations, which is something that people don’t really think about when counting loss,” he adds. “As a result, hundreds of drives along the East Coast were cancelled, and because of that, we lost roughly 1100 units of blood; blood that is still needed.   “To put that in perspective, we were coming off of a summer when there is already usually a shortage because people go on vacation and don’t give as often as at other times of the year. Blood collection is already difficult during this time and Hurricane Dorian compounded it.”  This New Year, if you’re looking for a way to make a difference by giving back, please consider donating blood. Blood donations are always needed and appreciated by Red Cross.  “Often, in the months after a disaster, because the media coverage dies down, people don’t know that the victims of a storm are still struggling, or that The Red Cross needs help to replenish their resources,” Benjamin says.  “This New Year, if people would like to help support our community or the victims of Hurricane Dorian, but not necessarily with a financial donation, then donating blood is the best way to help others and make a positive impact in the community.”     “The Red Cross prepared for the worst, and we got lucky that it stayed mostly off the coast,” he continues.  “Now we need help preparing for the next disaster so we can be ready. When you have to mobilize 600 plus volunteers and prepare for the worst, that uses resources. We are always preparing and replenishing so we can be at the ready to help others at a moment’s notice.” The Red Cross recommends that people also spend some time checking on and replenishing their own emergency kits.  “Spend some time with your family to talk about what worked and what didn’t from your hurricane plan,” Benjamin  says. 

The MBAF Base Throughout the 20th Century, Part 6

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The Latter Vietnam War Years by Melissa LaScaleia Continued from last month. Click here to read Part 5.  As we continue our exploration of the history of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base throughout the 20th century, as well as the squadrons that were stationed there and abroad, our journey takes us this month back to Vietnam during the 1970s. The 354 Tactical Fight Wing flew combat operations in Vietnam until January 1973. They stayed in Laos until February 22, 1973, and Cambodia until August 15, 1973.  The last aggressive shot fired by the United States was from an A-7D aircraft of the 353rd Tactical Fighter Squadron, on August 15, 1973.  The 354th TFW was returned from Thailand to its home base of Myrtle Beach on May 23, 1974. In May 1975, former Myrtle Beach A-7Ds were used in the SS Mayaguez Operation, the last combat action of the United States in Southeast Asia.  The incident took place between the United States and Kampuchea over the course of three days. The Khmer Rouge was the name attributed to the followers of the Kampuchea communist party, the regime which ruled Cambodia from 1975-1979. The incident began when the Khmer Rouge seized an American merchant vessel, the SS Mayaguez, when it was sailing in contested maritime waters.  United States marines mobilized and retaliated quickly— recapturing the ship, and pursuing the hostages to the island of Koh Tang. The skirmish lasted only a few days, and the hostages were released unharmed, but several Americans were captured and executed. This was the official last battle of the Vietnam War.    But even with the conclusion of American involvement in the most contentious war of that century, the 354th continued to see action. On February 1, 1974, the squadron was sent from Myrtle Beach to Howard Air Force Base in the Panama Canal for operation “Coronet Cove” to act as close air support for U.S. Army personnel training in that area. In April of that same year, A-7D aircraft from Myrtle Beach were sent to Hawaii for training exercises with army and marine units. Training like this with A-7D aircraft continued to occur until 1978, when the Air Force phased that aircraft out. The aircraft were retired to the service of the Air National Guard until the late 1980s. The A-7D was replaced by A-10A aircraft in 1977. The 354th at Myrtle Beach was the first wing in the Air Force fully trained, equipped, and ready to operate the new craft. They were fully implemented by the summer of 1978. Operating the new A-10s, and with their involvement in Asia over, the 354th reinstated their NATO commitments, and served terms around Europe in support of the training exercises, COMET, CORONET, and CRESTED CAP. The trainings were meant to familiarize troops with the European theater of operations as well as test the mettle of the troops’ long-term deployment capabilities.  In 1975, the City of Myrtle Beach and the military agreed to implement joint civilian and military activities at the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base.  Construction for what eventually became the Myrtle Beach International Airport commenced on the Northeast side of the base’s runway. And by 1977, the Myrtle Beach International Airport officially became a part of the city. To be continued. Click here to read Part 7. 

Kicking Off The New Year Right

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Making and Keeping Your Intentions for 2020 by Melissa LaScaleia Welcoming a New Year comes with many traditions, but none as prevalent as setting a New Year’s resolution.    But how common is it that what we begin with so much energy slowly dissipates after a few short weeks or months, and we fall back into old patterns? Studies show it’s more common than not. Our brains are hardwired to repeat our current patterns— even if we want to change them. So to help you stay inspired and on track with your wellness goals this year, the Insider spoke with our area’s health and wellness expert, Emma Ware, to get some tips and tricks on how we can turn our visions for being our best selves into results-oriented actions.  Emma has been working in the health and fitness industry for over twenty-five years, and as such, is well positioned to offer some great advice. Her extensive credentials include a degree in health and fitness and a doctorate in holistic nutrition. She is a certified nutritionist as well as a clinical, certified homeopath.  In Los Angeles, Emma worked in partnership with medical doctors, surgeons, oncologists, and gastroenterologists to help people implement new exercise and lifestyle choices to stay in better health— often, resolving their medical conditions.  She also wrote a cookbook, Fast Wholesome Cooking, to teach people with digestive issues how to eat differently. The recipes, techniques, and approaches help people to manage their symptoms— like pain, bloating, and lethargy— with often the conditions dying away on their own as a result of adopting a cleaner diet.  Emma has helped hundreds of people in Myrtle Beach lose weight and reach their goals. She’s taught people how to shop, cook, get organized, change their lifestyle, have a better outlook on health, think differently, and accept the changes they need to make to get the outcomes that they want to achieve. So we ask Emma— How do you set and stick to your resolutions?  “After I set an intention, I follow several steps to bring it to fruition,” she says. “Even though I’ve been working on myself for forty years, a protocol helps me to stay on track. When you follow a protocol, you’re holding yourself accountable and are more likely to succeed. “First, I always practice having a good attitude when it comes to food and health. And just as important is having an understanding of what I should eat and what I shouldn’t. I know that I can’t eat everything I want to if I want the results that I want. So the first step is a good healthy dose of reality mixed with positivity.”  The second thing that Emma does is practice discipline. And what helps her maintain it is setting herself up for success with organization in all areas of her life.  “I always make sure I have foods that I can eat in my home as well as at my work. That way, if I suddenly become hungry, or need to work later hours, I know I have healthy options that support me, rather than having to resort to grabbing whatever I can find last minute. In this way, I stay in the driver’s seat about what I’m putting into my body and when. So planning and organization are key.”  “When you implement these qualities— like discipline, organization, and self-accountability— it empowers you because it gives you the feeling that you’re in control of your life and choices,” Emma adds. “As people, we’re always seeking paths of greater self-empowerment and confidence.”     Emma Ware (left) is a health, fitness, and wellness expert with a consulting business in the Market Common. She uses many teaching tools to help her clients implement new, healthy habits around food and self-nourishment. — Photo Meganpixels Parker With support systems in place, Emma moves on to creating a program for herself to follow based on her lifestyle choices.  “You’ll want to consider how many hours you plan to work, how many you plan to devote to leisure and other causes, and how many you’re willing to devote to cooking,” she says.  “I make a list of what I’m going to cook for the week in advance. I usually make about five or six items, and split them between my work and office. Whatever I don’t have time to cook, I buy. But whatever I buy has to be clean and the closest thing you can get to home cooking.  “What’s important for me is knowing that I’m not going to deprive myself, and that I’m going to eat foods that store calories longer in my system so I’ll be sustained longer. Making food choices like that will also help me curb my appetite so I’m not overeating.”  Part of why this program works so well for Emma is because around holidays, birthdays, and vacations she gives herself permission to enjoy herself as she chooses— approaching her eating habits with a work hard play hard mentality.    “Reconciling to change is easy if you have a different way of looking at things,” she says. “The first thing you have to do is accept that you need to make changes. The second is to implement a program that you can understand, accept, and have patience with as you follow it.  “People also need to recognize that changes take time and don’t happen overnight. If you’ve had a bad habit for twenty years of your life, you need to be patient with changing it. If you fall off a program, then start all over again. You can’t be hard on yourself.”  And to implement those changes, Emma advocates the importance of cheating.  “While you’re eating the best that you can, if you suddenly have a craving for donuts or coffee, then eat one donut instead of three, and drink half a cup of coffee instead of a full one. Then you feel amazing because you cut back by half and still satisfied a craving. You need to let go of the idea of perfection and adopt a mentality of balance instead. Perfection isn’t realistic, but balance is natural.”  Cheating goes … Read more

Moore, Johnson & Saraniti

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Trusted, Experienced, Compassionate by Melissa LaScaleia Moore, Johnson & Saraniti is a local law firm, started in 2001, that is today comprised of five female attorneys. There are three senior partners: V. Lee Moore, Sarah A. Johnson, and Elizabeth J. Saraniti; junior partner, Angela D. Harrison; and associate attorney, Nancy M. Zovnic.  The firm practices in the areas of general litigation, estate planning, probate administration, family law, commercial and residential real estate, corporate, collections, community association representation, personal injury and mediation. “We are committed to providing ethical representation that is responsive to our clients,” says Angela, who has been with the firm since 2012. “We look at each individual situation, and customize what we have to offer to meet our clients’ unique needs.”  Moore, Johnson & Saraniti can help clients to determine what they need to accomplish their goals and offer advice and solutions to get them there.  Lee Moore has been practicing law for more than thirty-two years. She takes the time to examine each person’s request more deeply, to safeguard her clients from any oversights that could land them into a quagmire at a later date.  Lee is originally from Pawleys Island, and went to high school in Georgetown. She attended USC, then moved to Florida and worked as a paralegal before returning to USC to study law. After graduation, she settled in Surfside Beach.  When starting her own private practice, Lee was looking for an attorney who handled real estate closings to round out the services her firm offered. In an unusual twist of fate, Lee’s father used to have breakfast regularly at the Litchfield Diner with the husband of attorney Sarah Johnson. Word got out that Sarah had the skills that Lee needed, and when they met, both felt it would be a good fit.  “Sarah and I joined forces first,” Lee says. “And then about a year after that, I was looking for a very detail-oriented person and I found Elizabeth. I saw her in the court room and decided she’d be the perfect fit.  “Amongst our entire team, we really meld a lot of areas of law, and that enables us to provide more extensive services to our clients. We cover areas that complement one another.”  One of the main areas that Lee focuses on is estate planning. And, she often finds that people don’t have the appropriate documents in place to cover their needs appropriately.       “Not understanding the ramifications of all aspects of an estate plan leads many people to believe they just need a simple will, but that may not be the case,” Lee says. An estate plan requires an attorney to review multiple areas, including the possible need for either a will or a revocable trust, and a review of all assets, both probate and non-probate, along with a review of beneficiary designations.  “People have a perception that the probate process is expensive or cumbersome,” says Lee. “But in South Carolina, that process is actually relatively simple.”  According to Lee, an estate plan is more than just your will— it includes everything. A trust could be necessary to manage the assets for an underage beneficiary. Then, there are some assets that are not controlled by the distribution scheme in a will. If you designated a beneficiary to receive something, like a life insurance policy, that contract controls the distribution regardless of what your will may provide. The same thing holds true with annuities and retirement accounts.  Lee begins the process by looking at her clients’ current documents to confirm that they are valid in this state, and that they still accomplish her clients’ goals.  Angela Harrison has been with the all-female law firm since 2012. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “We also review the two types of Powers of Attorney,” she says. “One has to do with health care, and the other with financial matters. Both are important because that appointed person impacts decisions that need to be made while you are still alive.”  In addition to estate planning, Lee also handles probate administration, family litigation, and mediation for both probate and family court matters.  “I like mediation because you can help people resolve something in a fairly quick fashion,” she says. “It is a mechanism for individuals to be able to resolve cases without having to go through the knock-down, drag-out fight of a contested court case. I find that not only can you get the case resolved more efficiently and more economically, but people are typically happier with the outcome.  “When you’re in a court proceeding, things get said in an open and public courtroom. And pleadings, when filed, are part of the public record, so anyone would have access to personal and potentially embarrassing information.” Mediation is much more informal and laid-back because parties are in conference rooms instead of court rooms. It is a confidential and private setting, and you don’t have the anxiety that’s associated with coming in front of the judge, or the anticipation of a trial.  “It just sets the situation up for a better result,” she adds. “People are more likely to work with each other. With mediation, you may not get everything you wanted, but you feel like you have more control with the outcome. From an attorney’s perspective, when you help people reach a resolution and they sign the agreement, it’s much more satisfying to feel you’ve helped both sides reach a resolution that is in place for their life.”  Lee recommends pursuing mediation early on, before people retreat to their respective corners and become entrenched in their stance. Additionally, the longer the litigation goes on, the more costly it becomes, and the less money there is for either party in the end.  “Probate mediation gives families not only the ability to resolve the case, but to save the family bond,” Lee says. “In probate court, if families are fighting, and it goes to a contested hearing— families splinter, and they never seem to recover.”  Lee has been working as a mediator for over fifteen years. She attributes her success in generating successful mediation agreements to her organizational abilities and problem solving skills.  “As a … Read more

A Small Company With Big Backing

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Delivering Visual Communications with Superior Customer Service by Melissa LaScaleia FASTSIGNS in Myrtle Beach creates visual communications and graphics for companies— everything from business cards to large illuminated exterior signage. They also offer marketing, project management, consulting, brand integrity, graphic design, installation, exhibits, displays, vehicle wraps, wall murals, and more.  “We create signage for businesses as well as communities,” says Mike Snyder, co-owner of the local Myrtle Beach franchise. “Any type of signage that you can think of, we do.”  Mike entered the FASTSIGNS scene from a commercial printing background.  “My father owned and operated a commercial print business in northern Indiana where I grew up,” he says. “I helped to manage his business early on and gained management, marketing, and operations experience. Eventually, I segued into working at one of the top FASTSIGNS centers in Indianapolis. That experience gave my wife, JJ, and I insight into what it would be like to purchase our own center, and we were excited by the prospect of branching out on our own.” “I’m from St. Simon’s Island, Georgia,” JJ says, “a beach girl with Southern roots. But I moved to Chicago when I was young. Mike and I met in Indiana. We had a shared dream and goal to move to the coastal South. So when the Myrtle Beach center came up for sale in 2013, with his skills and my background in sales, we felt buying into the franchise was a really good fit for us.”  The two had to revamp the business when they took it over. The previous owner was ill; it didn’t have any on-site management; and it was under performing.  “It needed a lot of love and attention,” JJ says. “But Mike and I both are entrepreneurs with very strong customer service backgrounds. We knew we could take on this challenge and be not only profitable, but turn this location into what it could be.  “We recognize that there are many sign companies in Myrtle Beach, but we feel that what we bring to the market is our passion for customer service. We do what we say we’re going to do when we say we’re going to do it. And that’s how we were able to turn the center around. We dug in our heels and did business the way we felt we should.”  When the two first began, they had taken over a company with customer satisfaction surveys that ranked in the low 60 percentile. In six months, they moved those rankings into the upper 90 percentile range, and they never wavered from there. In the past few years, their satisfaction ratings have been at 98%.  “We publish all of our reviews,” JJ says. “We don’t hide any because we think it really speaks volumes in showing who we are. It’s impossible to please people all of the time, and we want to keep it real with our customers.”  The uncensored reviews on their website attest to the helpfulness of the staff, their competence in execution of service, and their above and beyond mentality in pleasing their customers— all with that local, home-town feel. Additionally, FASTSIGNS was awarded Best Sign company multiple times by the 2019 Reader’s Choice Award.  The two also attribute their success to the support that they receive from FASTSIGNS corporate.  “We are planners, designers, and innovators, and like to tackle large projects,” JJ says. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Vehicle wrapping is one of FASTSIGNS’s many services. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Kylie Emfinger is FASTSIGNS in-house, professional graphic designer. — Photo Meganpixels Parker — Photo Meganpixels Parker Mike and JJ. — Photo Meganpixels Parker The FASTSIGNS team from left to right: Chelsea Parkhurst, co-owners Mike and JJ Snyder, Kylie Emfinger, and Jimmie Parkhurst. — Photo Meganpixels Parker The FASTSIGNS showroom located at 685 Grissom Parkway, Myrtle Beach, SC. — Photo Meganpixels Parker FASTSIGNS prides themselves on their superior customer service. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Previous Next “FASTSIGNS has been winning awards as a nationwide sign company throughout the years,” Mike says. “They are ranked #1 in multiple franchise related magazines, and are always at the top in the sign industry. The corporate office staff are constantly testing and reviewing equipment, and they send us the reports on what is top-performing.  “The specs they provide are invaluable— and save us time and money— giving us information long before a small shop would know.  “Additionally, they help us troubleshoot with technology. There is so much support on the back side that the average small business doesn’t receive. Instead of us having to feel our way through this business, we’re going in with guidance, which gives us an edge.”  “Being part of a nationwide franchise gives us an opportunity to keep growing and learning,” JJ says. “We attend our national convention annually to stay up-to-date on technology, products, and equipment. We were asked by corporate to be part of a board group. We meet twice a year and set goals and hold each other accountable. “And because we have the backing of a major corporation, when we purchase equipment and material from suppliers, we receive special pricing and pass that savings onto our customers.  “We are planners, designers, and innovators, and like to tackle large projects. Our customers have discovered we have a highly skilled team of marketing and graphics experts more than ready to handle your projects. We have the experience, vision and insight needed to create, manage and implement the solutions that are right for you.” Over the past year, JJ has been focused on connecting their company with who she and her husband are to their brand, and becoming more involved in the community.  “We really want to give back to our community— to make our community better in big and small ways,” JJ says.  JJ reached out to officials of Georgetown County for permission to repaint the Welcome to Pawleys Island sign which was cracked, faded, and peeling. When she discovered that no one was responsible for its upkeep, she brought it to their shop and made it like new again.  And now, she’s made a regular habit of it. About once a month, she and her husband find a sign … Read more

The Gasque Insurance Agency

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Serving Myrtle Beach For Almost 40 Years by Melissa LaScaleia The Gasque Insurance Agency is a second generation Allstate Insurance agency located in Surfside Beach. Allstate Insurance agencies are individually owned, and operate as independent contractors— each one is unique in terms of the service they provide.  Empie Gasque opened the business in 1983, and led the company to become a trusted and well respected fixture in the community over the course of forty years. His son, Ronnie, began working with him as a partner in 1992, and took over the helm after his father’s retirement in 2007. A native South Carolinian, Ronnie Gasque was born and raised in Conway. He joined the Navy in 1986, and during his four year tenure with the military, made four transatlantic crossings and served on two Mediterranean cruises in which he launched aircraft off of an aircraft carrier.  After his military term expired, he returned home and enrolled in Coastal Carolina University, where he graduated with a degree in business before going on to earn an MBA from Webster University in 1999.  “I started learning about the business as soon as I began working with my father,” Ronnie says, “selling automobile, property, and casualty insurance. Over time, as we expanded, I gradually began acquiring more licenses in additional areas to stay current with our clients’ growing needs and the changing industry environment. We want to be a one-stop shop for everything.”  In keeping with that goal, Gasque Insurance provides a fully comprehensive array of products including homeowner, renters, condo, motorcycle, moped, boat, umbrella, and commercial insurance protection as well as securities transactions. (Many people asked if Gasque Insurance would handle their portfolio of stocks and mutual funds. They asked, Gasque delivered; now he does.)    Ronnie has a soft spot for animals, and hosts an annual picnic to introduce business associates and the community to animals in need of a loving home in the hopes that some will pair up. Ronnie, above, with his dog, Scooby. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “You name it, we do it,” Ronnie emphasizes.  Many of their clients are already Allstate holders who relocated to South Carolina from elsewhere; as a native, and firmly established in the industry, Ronnie can help ensure a stress-free, seamless transition with their insurance needs.  As a nearly lifetime resident of South Carolina, Ronnie is especially well equipped to help all his customers navigate smoothly through the world of insurance in a new state. And to offer the most for his clients, Gasque Insurance offers additional products through other brokerage groups when those compliment and enhance his current offerings.  Gasque brokers the products of Burns & Wilcox, Lloyd’s of London, Progressive, Sage Insurance, and American Modern, for both property and casualty insurance.  “Our primary focus is on having excellent customer service,” Ronnie says. “We try to sell our customers what they need, not what they don’t. And are able to offer discounts when they bundle all of their insurance needs— like home, auto, boat— into one portfolio.     “Insurance is a relationship business. We establish long-term relationships with our clients because we meet their needs, we handle their claims, and they trust us. And we build upon and maintain those relationships to ensure time-tested customer satisfaction.”  The aim at Gasque Insurance Agency is partnership in all of their relationships— be it amongst staff, with customers, and insurance companies— to help them fulfill and exceed their company goals.  Gasque seeks to maintain a highly trained and loyal staff; deliver superior, personalized customer service; continue advancement in technologies; and assist customers with claims to ensure compete satisfaction.  “We’ve been protecting our area residents for almost forty years now,” Ronnie says. “And we’ll continue to do so.”  The Gasque Insurance Agency services all of South Carolina, and is fully licensed in North Carolina as well. The agency has six full-time employees, two part-time employees, and Ronnie.  To offer the most to his clients, Gasque Insurance offers additional products through other brokerage groups when those compliment and enhance their other selections. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “Between myself and my staff,” he says, “we have almost 200 years of combined experience doing this. We put our customers’ needs first, and our staff is always more than happy to assist you in your insurance needs— to meet and exceed our company aims.”  Gasque Insurance Agency is committed to handling the perpetually changing marketplace. And it’s a local agency devoted to the community.  Ronnie is a board member on the Coastal Carolina CAF, Coastal Athletic Foundation, which supports the college with their growth in the athletics division. He was on the board of the Belin United Methodist Church for three years; and he’s a part of the Murrells Inlet Rotary Club. He also volunteers with and has sponsored several grants for Murrells Inlet 2020— an environmentally friendly community organization that is devoted to the growth and well-being of the Murrells Inlet community. Gasque Insurance Agency hosts an annual Pig Picking Picnic every November, at his office. He invites All-4-Paws, a non-kill animal shelter for cats and dogs in Pawleys Island to attend, along with a group of cats and dogs in need of a permanent, happy home.  “We invite our clients, business associates, and people in the community,” Ronnie says. “And hope that people will forge connections with each other, as well as find an animal to adopt and bring home. It’s another way for us to be involved in the community and lend a hand.”  “I like to think of our organization as a mom-and-pop shop,” he says when asked to sum up how he defines his company. “We offer personal, professional service but driven by the support of a large company— Allstate.” Gasque Insurance Agency M-F 8:30am-5:30pm Envelope Globe Phone

Your Neighborhood Pack and Ship Store and a Whole Lot More

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Ringing in The New Year With a New Location by Melissa LaScaleia Frank Espinal opened ShipOnSite in 2007, and grew his original three profit centers to eight since that time. The neighborhood pack and ship store has relationships with all the shipping carriers (like UPS, FedEx, DHL, the post office and more), and compares prices and shipping times between them, processing your shipment depending on your needs. They specialize in shipping freight, as well as crating delicate and high-value items.  ShipOnSite can also sell items for you on eBay and perform office related services. With their PrintOnSite and GraphicsOnSite services, they can develop graphics for any type of media and execute large-format printing.  To ring in the New Year, Frank is excited about moving his Myrtle Beach store to a larger location, in response to his company’s growth.  This past year, ShipOnSite launched three additional services. One of those is MailOnSite— ShipOnSite’s version of a virtual mail service, which operates like your own personal mail manager.     “With this service, you receive mail at our store, we take a digital image of each piece, and upload it to your online account,” Frank says. “We open and scan the mail you want to see, shred what you don’t, and the image is uploaded to your account where you can direct us how to act for you further. We can also forward mail that you request to a different address.”  The service is so comprehensive, that they can even deposit checks for you.  CourierOnSite, another innovation, is a courier service for and between businesses in Horry County. Frank has plans to expand that service into Georgetown County over the course of the next year. And several months ago, he launched a new shipping app. “The app will tie everything together,” he says. “It’s a pretty robust program, with many features adaptable to everyone’s daily needs. On it, you’ll have a direct connection to our store, you can get shipping quotes, order courier service, track packages, subscribe to a virtual mail box service and much more.”  This month, ShipOnSite Myrtle Beach is moving to a new location in Surfside Beach.  “It is 1000 square feet larger than our original store,” he says. “We’re using the extra space to manage the increase in our in-house printing as well as the expected increase in shipping volume from e-commerce.”  Today, in the United States alone, e-commerce generates 50 million packages per day. In the next five years, that number is expected to double.  “That’s a number that we need to be able to accommodate,” Frank says. “From the sheer volume of e-commerce, we’re positioning ourselves to be able to be a package hub for our customers.”  ShipOnSite has long been a member of the largest retail shipping trade organization in the country, which developed a business model called Package Hub Business Center in 2019.  “We enrolled in that business model which connects us to the logistics network of large-scale retailers such as Amazon, Walmart and Target,” Frank says. “Which means that ShipOnSite will be better equipped to more thoroughly serve the customers of those establishments, and be a part of e-commerce in a bigger way.”  If a customer is traveling and needs to receive a package, they will be given the option by the e-commerce retailer to have their package shipped to the closest Package Hub Business Center for pickup. ShipOnSite’s participation in this program means that Frank can offer the tourist population of Myrtle Beach an additional service to make their stay that much more welcoming and convenient. “We’re continuing to grow as a store,” Frank says. “Both in terms of the services we provide, as well as the volume of requests we handle. And I’m excited to see where it takes us.  Come visit us at our new location in Surfside Beach.” ShipOnSite M-F 8am-6pm; Sa-Su 9am-3pm Envelope Globe Phone Facebook

Infinity Hair Salon

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We Have a Chair Waiting for You by Melissa LaScaleia Myrtle Beach residents, Joyce Myers and her husband, Gary, own three full service hair salons along the Grand Strand: Infinity Hair Salon in Myrtle Beach; Hair Etc. in Surfside Beach; and Hair Trends in Murrells Inlet.  Each salon has a slightly different personality— the culture influenced by that area of the Grand Strand where it’s located, as well as the clientele that patronize it. Every salon offers services for all ages, from children to seniors.  Joyce and her husband relocated to this area from upstate New York twenty-five years ago. “We used to vacation in Myrtle Beach for years, and eventually decided we wanted to move someplace warmer,” she says. “When we had an opportunity to start a career in the hair salon business, we decided to take it.”  Husband and wife team, Gary (left) and Joyce Myers (right) own and operate three hair salons along the Grand Strand. — Photo Mganpixels Parker The two have been working in the salon industry for the past twenty-three years— helping people to nourish their locks and combat the deleterious effects ocean living takes on one’s tresses.  “Beach living is beautiful, but it takes a heavy toll on your hair,” Joyce says. “You need to protect it from the sand, sun and salt water. There’s an excess of wind and humidity that your hair is exposed to constantly. A lot of people relocate down here or come for a short stay and don’t realize the effect the climate has on their hair, or how to manage their hair optimally in this new environment. That’s what we focus on with our clients.”  As the owner of three hair salons on the Grand Strand, Joyce oversees the operations for each— ordering the newest products to keep up with trends. — Photo Meganpixels Parker Joyce oversees all the operations at the three salons, such as marketing, purchasing new products, and taking care of the bookkeeping.  “We have wonderful managers at each salon,” she says. “Carolyn Taft is at Infinity, Sheila Michelsohn is at Hair Etc., and Grace Smeallie is at Hair Trends. They are passionate about what they do, and help make our salons as successful as they are.    — Photo Meganpixels Parker “We also have very talented stylists at our salons. Because we live hair, we stay on top of the cutting-edge solutions and specialized services that are available— like smoothing and straightening services. At Infinity, we create a lot of bright bold colors for our clients, ombre looks, and keratin treatments.”  The stylists at all three salons are dedicated to their profession— committed to continuing their education, striving to grow their skills and staying current with what’s trending in the hair industry in terms of solutions as well as designs.  “At our salons, we try to listen to our clients’ wants and needs along with sharing our ideas, in order to find the hairstyle that not only makes people feel their best, but is also easy to maintain,” says Joyce. “Part of our mission is to build lasting relationships with our clients, and with the community as well.”  In keeping with their mission to make a positive impact on the community, Joyce continuously holds donation drives at the salons to help our more vulnerable populations, including youth, and local animal shelters.  The crew of Infinity Hair Salon, from left to right: Tiffany Petruzelli, Carolyn Taft, Kelsey Miles, and Rebel Hyre, show their style during the holidays. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “Our philosophy at our salons is: ‘Be your best, feel your best, and do your best,’” Joyce says. “So we invest in those relationships in our community where we feel we can make a difference just as we invest in our relationships with our clients.”  “I just love seeing some of the makeovers that the stylists do and how it makes people so happy,” she adds. “People come in and they’re having a bad day or a bad week and they can get a haircut or a color and it perks them right up.  “During the winter months, we see a lot of snowbirds who return every year because they love our stylists. This is what makes me happy— building relationships with people— knowing our community continues to grow and bond.” Infinity Hair Salon Open M-F 10am-6pm; Sa 10am-4pm Envelope Globe Phone Facebook

Bar Louie

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Eat, Drink, Be Happy by Melissa LaScaleia Thomas Stevens is the owner and operator of the Myrtle Beach franchise location, Bar Louie. There are one hundred and forty Bar Louies nationwide; the brand originated in Chicago in 1991.  Thomas is originally from Texas, and spent most of his life working in the restaurant industry in Atlanta, Georgia. He eventually returned to his roots and moved back to Texas. His wife’s family is from Charleston, and after some years, the two decided to relocate to this area to be closer to her relatives, and settled on Myrtle Beach as home.  “I was looking around for concepts and new ideas of what I could do when I discovered Bar Louie,” Thomas says. “I moved forward with the venture and bought the franchise for this area.”  When Thomas discovered Broadway at the Beach, he knew it would be the perfect locale for his new venture. Bar Louie opened its doors in August 2019, next door to Dave and Busters.  The trendy restaurant/bar embodies a contemporary style, serving easy but innovative American fare like gourmet craft burgers; sandwiches; an assortment of flatbreads like roasted veggies and buffalo chicken; and always-fan-favorites like flash-fried calamari; shrimp tempura; and Bavarian pretzels.  There’s also a variety of entree options. Appetizers designed for sharing cater to groups of friends gathering for bites and brews to enjoy over conversation or a game. “Most of our menu items are made from scratch, including our sauces,” Thomas says. “And we serve fantastic desserts.  “I would describe us as an upscale casual American bistro eatery meets bar, gastro-pub. Basically, an upscale bar with really good food. And the prices are fair, especially for Broadway at the Beach.”  Bar Louie is the spot to watch football on the weekends— they have about twenty-six HD TVs. Larger games are broadcasted over the sound system.  “It’s a great place to come to have lunch or dinner, meet up with friends, and share appetizers and enjoy our happy hour menus,” Thomas says. “This is a place where all ages can fit in and have a good time and feel comfortable: teenagers, couples, friends, work colleagues, and families. We have a kids menu and are very family friendly.”  Bar Louie has a lot of options for serving customers.  Previous Next “We are fully capable of accommodating large parties because of the way our space is designed,” Thomas says.  They have a separate upstairs that will hold up to 100 people. In total, they can hold 330 people inside. Additionally, there are two ample-sized outdoor patios which are open year-round and overlook Broadway at the Beach, affording great people watching any time of day or night.  Bar Louie hosts a series of fun events and specials throughout the week. There is live music on Friday nights beginning around 7pm. They hold an open mic night on Thursdays starting at 6:30pm. Burger Nation occurs on Tuesdays— with half-priced burgers from 4-8pm. They also offer a combo special: a burger and two draft beers for $11. They have brunch on Saturdays and Sundays with $10 bottomless mimosas from 10am-3pm.  Happy Hour runs all work-week long. Monday through Friday from 4pm-7pm they have $3.50 14oz beers; $4.50 glasses of wine; and $5.50 signature Martinis.  “We have great football specials all day Saturday, Sunday and Monday, including $15 buckets of some of the most well known beers; $4 fireball shots; and $3 house mixed drinks,” Thomas adds.  But the best part isn’t even a special— they serve their full menu until they close, every night until 2am. This is a rarity that will make locals and tourists alike rejoice, as there are a dearth of establishments along the Grand Strand that are open for hungry latecomers. “I’m really optimistic about this space and this enterprise,” Thomas says. “Bar Louie is just a nice place to come visit. The food is good, and we draw locals as well as tourists. I really like the parent company, the support and mentorship they provide, and the people who are involved. “Owning this, the environment is fun, and I really enjoy meeting so many new people. There are people here in Myrtle Beach from all over the country and world. And I have really great employees. Without their dedication and hard work, I couldn’t do what I do.”  “I’ve always loved the restaurant business,” he adds. “It’s a hard business, and the hours are long, but if you have a good attitude about it, then it’s just a joy, not a burden. Every day is different— there’s never a boring moment. Bar Louie  1318 Celebrity Circle, Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 854-854-8544 www.barlouie.com  Facebook @ Bar Louie Myrtle Beach Open M-F 11am-2am; Sa-Su 10am-2am. Serving full menu until close.

2019 North Myrtle Beach Holiday Events

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by the City of North Myrtle Beach North Myrtle Beach has a lot to offer in the holiday season and invites everyone, visitors and locals alike, to enjoy these jolly events. THE GREAT CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW Visit this park-wide lighted celebration that captures the spirit of the season. The two mile drive-through light show features over two million festively displayed lights.  Over 500 magical light displays, some up to 55 feet tall, are custom made for the Great Christmas Light Show— at least forty of them animated. Admission is $15 per vehicle of 1-15 guests, $30 per vehicle of 16-30 guests, and $60 per vehicle of 31+ guests. Come see Santa’s Village to experience Santa’s Village Treats, visit with and have your photo taken with Santa, ride the Santa Express Train, see a petting zoo, and more. Some additional attractions require a ticket purchase. Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday only November 29-December 15. Open nightly December 19-30; closed Christmas Day. For more information visit www.greatchristmaslightshow.com. NORTH MYRTLE BEACH CHRISTMAS PARADE It would not be Christmas without the annual North Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade. Join your friends and neighbors on December 7 to enjoy the lighted floats and units representing groups from across the area. The parade travels down Main Street to Ocean Boulevard and disperses on 2nd Avenue North. Any location along Main Street provides a great view of the parade. For more information and details, or to enter a group in the parade, contact Charlene Lynam at the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce at (843) 361-3045 or charlene@northmyrtlebeachchamber.com.  THE GRINCH’S CANDY CANE HUNT Help! The Grinch has come to North Myrtle Beach and is threatening to turn all of our Candy Canes GREEN. Please join us on December 12 at The North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex Wyndham Baseball Complex and help us gather them before it is too late. After all of the Candy Canes are safe, we will cozy up with hot cocoa and watch the movie: How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966). Bring a beach chair and blankets.  SHOP WITH A HERO CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT The City of North Myrtle Beach and Barefoot Resort & Golf annually collaborate on a wonderful golf tournament that benefits children in need in our community. All proceeds from the event go towards the North Myrtle Beach Public Safety Department’s, “Shop with a Hero” program, which makes sure that children in need have a special Christmas that includes lunch, presents and important items such as winter coats. This year, join us on Friday, December 13 at 11am at the Dye Course at Barefoot Resort & Golf.

Info for the City of Myrtle Beach’s Solid Waste Customers

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by the City of Myrtle Beach Need a refresher about when to bring your trash receptacle inside and what’s recyclable? Here are helpful tips regarding the City of Myrtle Beach’s curbside solid waste services for residential customers. City Code and Curbside Containers It’s a violation under city code to leave your trash receptacle or recycling containers at curbside after your collection day. The ordinance has been in place since at least 1980. Residents are required to roll their containers to the curbside in time for their designated collection day, then remove them from curbside by 11pm that same day.  The goal is not to have garbage cans sitting by the curb all week long. The requirement also may prevent containers from being lost, stolen or blown into the road, creating a safety hazard. Your neighbors will be very happy if you bring your garbage can in, too. Contaminated Recycling The Horry County Solid Waste Authority recently informed the city of an increase in contaminated recyclables and announced that it will charge the city for future contaminated deliveries. Here are some reminders about recycling to help ensure we, as residents, don’t get penalized. Rinse and wash food, beverage and detergent containers. Containers with food residue will contaminate an entire batch of recycling. Do not bag your recyclables. They won’t be picked up. Do not sort items; we have a co-mingled system. Here’s a list of items that can be recycled: Aluminum and tin cans Non-greasy cardboard and corrugated cardboard boxes (remove all packaging from inside) Catalogs and magazines Newspapers Clean paper bags Empty aerosol cans (without caps) Glass bottles and jars (without lids) Paper (office, school, junk mail) Paperback books Telephone books Pourable plastic bottles and jugs (#1 through #7). Here’s a list of items that cannot be recycled: Appliances Cardboard pizza boxes Clothes Shoes Garden hoses Non-pourable plastic containers Plastic butter tubs Plastic plates or dishes Plastic to-go containers Plastic yogurt containers Scrap metal Tires Toys. Transfer Station Materials The city also operates a solid waste transfer station at 3221 Mr. Joe White Avenue. It is open to the public on Fridays, from 7am-3pm. The same materials accepted for curbside pick-up are accepted at the transfer station from city residents.  This includes garbage, recyclables, bulk waste and yard waste. In addition, clean wood waste and tires (limit is four tires per day, per person), also are accepted for recycling at the transfer station. Contact the Solid Waste Division at 843-918-2160 for any questions. 

Enjoying the 2019 Christmas Season in Surfside Beach

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by the Town of Surfside Beach Pack up the family and clear the calendar for the upcoming Christmas events in Surfside Beach.  Join us for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting on December 5 from 6-8pm at Town Hall, located at Pine Drive and 17 Business South. Singing and music will be performed by 4 Pillars Church of Surfside Beach, Lakewood Elementary School Chorus, and Lakewood Steel Drum Band. Bojangles will be providing hot chocolate and mini boberry and cinnamon biscuits. There will be face painting, a bouncy house, and princess and superhero characters, too.  While in town for the tree lighting, take a cruise through town to experience the second annual “It’s a Wonderful Life in Surfside Beach,” in which Surfside Beach will light up their homes and businesses in a spirit of festive fun.  “Light the Nights” begins December 5, 2019, and runs until January 1, 2020. We welcome you and your family to experience the town’s Christmas spirit we are so proud to display. There will also be free trolley rides December 5, 12, and 19. Our area businesses will be ready to welcome you. To learn more or get involved, check out the Keep Surfside Beach Beautiful Facebook page. The fun continues with the Surfside Beach Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 14 at 2pm. This annual event, started in 1968, has something for everyone—music, floats, candy give-aways, dancers, cars, and of course, Santa. The parade route starts at Melody Lane, goes north on Ocean Boulevard, and then turns left, heading west up Surfside Drive; it disbands at Poplar Drive. If interested in being in the parade, please contact Debbie Ellis at Town Hall. Please note that Town Hall will be closed 12/25, 12/26 and 1/1/20 in honor of Christmas and New Year’s Day. We invite you all to partake in the festivities, and look forward to another year of heartwarming magic and making memories. We wish you a very Merry Christmas and the happiest New Year. 

Emma’s Health Talk: Butter vs. Margarine, Part 2

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Continued from last month. Click here to read.  by Emma Ware This month’s discussion on the health benefits, or not, of butter and margarine is formulated from information from an article written on April 22, 2016, in the Doctors Health Press and online at www.mayoclinic.org. As we said in Part 1, butter is a natural dairy product, and margarine is a heavily processed product made from vegetable oil. It is less healthy than an all natural product. But the question still remains: which is the better choice based on the final outcome on the body? The following chart will help you see the differences between the two.  We can see that butter is higher in different kinds of fat, but what does that really mean? To make butter, cow’s milk is shaken, agitated or churned until the fats separate from the liquid, which eventually results in butter. Margarine, on the other hand, is a man-made, highly processed product made from vegetable oil. It was created in 1869 in France as a replacement for those who couldn’t afford butter’s high price tag. It was primarily used by the military and poor families.  Margarine is similar in taste, appearance and consistency to butter. Unfortunately, these similarities are achieved by adding a variety of artificial ingredients, including emulsifiers and artificial coloring. It is then put through a process of hydrogenation which extends its shelf life but increases the trans fat content. Originally margarine was considered better. It was believed that butter was bad for heart health as a result of its saturated fats and cholesterol— both of which are found in high levels. In turn, it was thought that butter would raise people’s cholesterol levels, which in turn raises their risk of heart disease.  However, there are two types of cholesterol: one that’s good for us, HDL, and one that’s bad for us, LDL. Research has since found that saturated fat and dietary cholesterol raise HDL cholesterol, and that they don’t raise LDL cholesterol.  Instead, they actually improve LDL, making it more benign and less harmful. This means that the saturated fat in butter does not increase the risk of heart disease. Many subsequent studies have confirmed this. From the Mayo Clinic website: “When it comes to butter versus margarine, it may surprise you as to which food is worse for your heart health. It’s the margarine, because of its trans fat content. Trans fats have been linked to heart disease; margarine also contains other ingredients that may lead to cancer and other ailments.” To sum it all up— the main difference between butter and margarine is that one is all natural and one is highly processed.  I personally prefer the taste of butter and am happy to discover that even though butter is high in both saturated fat and cholesterol, it is low in trans fat which is now the culprit being linked to heart disease. Moderation is always the key to making healthy choices. As in all my articles, I suggest that you always check with your doctor before deciding to make any changes to your health routine. Let me know your take on this information, there is much more out there on this subject. Next month we will talk about the stress of holiday seasons and the effect stress has on our health. Stop by the office at 2798-D Howard Ave. in Market Common or give me a call at 843-997-7037.  Blessings, Emma

The MBAF Base Throughout the 20th Century, Part 5

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The Contentious ’70s by Melissa LaScaleia Continued from last month. Click here to read Part 4.  During the Vietnam War years, needs abroad for fighter units left the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base without any squadrons.  Air guardsmen were dispersed throughout parts of Europe, Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam as part of the war effort.  It has been argued that the fighter pilots of the Vietnam era who were stationed to serve in Korea had more difficult assignments than those who were staying in Vietnam.  Most who were serving terms in Korea had been taken individually from their original units and then reassigned with unknown troops. Alienated from their unit, and in a foreign place, their morale was severely impacted. The disorganization that ensued was eventually sorted, but caused many time-consuming hiccups along the way. After the prisoners of the USS Pueblo were released, and Operation Combat Fox subsequently ceased, the 354th Tactical Fighter Wing again returned to duty in Korea.  In Korea, the military realized that the F-100C aircraft was not the optimal choice for the burden placed upon it— that of speed and agility in the event of an attack by the North Korean armies. Moreover, the plane lacked an effective all-weather, air-to-air combat capability— something which was essential for fighting in Korea.  On June 14, 1970, the 354th Tactical Fighter Wing was inactivated at Kunsan, and the following day, re-activated and transferred to Myrtle Beach. The wing was assigned with the new duties of combat crew training in T-33s and proficiency in operating the new A-7D aircraft.  By November, the 355 Tactical Fighter Squadron was reassigned to the 354th TFW; it was the first Myrtle Beach squadron to be equipped with A-7Ds.  The 354th TFW also received the manpower and equipment of the 4556th TFS and the 356th TFS from its deployment in Japan. In July 1971, the 353rd TFS was also reassigned to the 354th after its deployment in Spain, bringing more A-7D fighter craft as well.  Initially, the aircraft had separate codes painted onto their tails to distinguish one squadron from another. But by 1972, the military abolished this practice and all the tails were designated with a simple ‘MB’ for Myrtle Beach.  In September, squadrons from the 354th deployed into Southeast Asia with their A-7D aircraft in what was called operation Constant Guard VI. This was the first overseas deployment with that particular craft.  The wing was split into two components— Rear and Advanced. The Advanced ran combat operations from Korat, Thailand, and a small number were also stationed at Bien Hoa Air Base in South Vietnam.  While there, personnel from the 354th were responsible for halting enemy supply lines of the North Vietnamese, supported U.S. ground troops, and guarded ally supply ships up the Mekong River to Phnom Penh, Cambodia.  In November, the 354th took over Combat Search and Rescue operations in Vietnam. The 354th TFW earned a Presidential Unit Citation for their courage, prowess, and service during the years 1972 and 1973 in Vietnam.  During the Linebacker II military campaign, they helped with 22 rescues of downed planes and flew over 4,000 combat attacks.  By March 1973, deployed squadrons from the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base were permanently assigned to Korat, Thailand, along with their A-7D aircraft.  To be continued. Click here to read Part 6. 

The Legend of the Christmas Stocking

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Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This December, Charlie makes some holiday magic and receives a gift by the mantel. Oh boy the holidays are here again! I just love this beautiful season of peace, harmony, and guaranteed turkey. And this year I’m especially excited because one of my fans knit me a stocking to hang from the mantelpiece. Not only can I wear it like a body sock (it’s now my new favorite snuggling equipage), but it’s also like hanging a fabulously chic sign in your home that reads, “DEPOSIT CHARLIE’S PRESENTS HERE.”  Moreover, all the colors in the design are just delightful− the pink and blue, and red, and green, and yellow. It’s bound to bring a smile to anyone’s face who sees it hanging there.  And because I’m nerdy like that, I just had to know— who came up with the tradition of hanging stockings over the mantelpiece and why?  I don’t know, but not only am I going to find out, I am willing to bet it’s a good story. I’m going to hunker down in my sock, put on my research cap, and find some stories.  Here it is… sure enough. A legend. And one that captures the Christmas spirit of hope, love, and the importance of neighborly connections.  Once upon a time, there lived a father who had three beautiful daughters. Christmas was approaching, and he was reflecting on families and togetherness, but despaired that any of his daughters would ever know such bliss. He was so poor he couldn’t afford a dowry for his daughters, and thought because of this, no one would want to marry them. They would be sad and lonely their entire lives, he feared.  … Hmmmm. That seems like a pretty shoddy reason to discard someone as a potential mate to me. I tend to go for ladies with great personalities and bushy tails. But I think priorities were a lot different back then. So, back to the worrying farmer. Apparently, all the town knew about the family’s situation, and knew also that the man would never accept financial help. So everyone pondered and fretted and stayed up late talking about what to do. Until, one night, jolly old St. Nicholas wandered through the town and overhead the well-intentioned conversations, and set about to fix it.  Relying on the fact that he’s magic, and presents from him don’t count as a hand-out, he snuck down the chimney of the girls’ house late on Christmas Eve, as he is wont to do.  He looked around, and they were so poor, they had no tree for him to leave the present under. But, being tidy folk, they had just done their laundry, and hung some stockings up over the fireplace so they would dry.  Thinking that would be a fun surprise for them when they went to put their hosiery on in the morning, St. Nicholas slipped some gold nuggets into each stocking, then put his finger next to his nose, and whisked back up the chimney, to spread more largess throughout the world.  The trick worked like a charm. The farmer was overjoyed at the magic money, the daughters had dowries and knew conjugal bliss, and their friends rejoiced. It was a win-win for everyone.  To commemorate the spirit of giving and receiving, of having hopes and having those fulfilled by little angels who light up our lives, the tradition of hanging your stocking by the mantel took off and blossomed. And we’re still loving and living it today. I know I am! Until next time, 

Q&A with Larry Kave

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Q&A with Santa - Larry Kave

Meet Larry Kave, A Laid-Back Santa Who Added Photography and Cycling to His Hobbies by Melissa LaScaleia Introduce me to your family.  It’s myself and my wife, Dianna. I have two daughters. The eldest, Shannon, lives in West Virginia. Our youngest, Kristen, lives in Colorado. I have a grandson in West Virginia too.  Where are all the places you came from? Where do you live now? We started out in Northern Virginia. Then my wife got transferred to Parkersburg, West Virginia for work, where we lived for twenty years. We’ve been here now seven years. We live in the Highlands in the Market Common.  Why did you move to Myrtle Beach? We used to come here several times a year. My wife was up for retirement, and then I was too, so we decided to move down.  What is your favorite place in Myrtle Beach? The Pelican’s ball field. That is where I work as the team photographer. What do you like the most about living here? The weather, and the fact that there is no snow. We love the beach.  How has your lifestyle changed since moving here? I’m busier. I go through the season with the Pelicans, shooting for them, which lasts from April through September. Then I volunteer to be a Santa— I do events for the Market Common and Toys for Tots, all their breakfast, lunch and dinner events. Thirty-one years ago, I was asked to be a Santa for my daughter’s pre-school, and I’ve done it ever since. I also do some photography work for the Market Common. What new activities have you taken up since moving here? Bike riding. I used to ride a bit in West Virginia but I was limited because of the weather. Now I ride twenty miles every day at dawn, and take photographs of the sunrise. I love taking pictures; I see a lot of things that I think are interesting and take photos of those things.  Do you find people friendlier or more at ease? Yes, I do. Things get so hectic in the summers though. I’m just a laid-back kind of guy.  What are your favorite things to do here?  My favorite things are watching baseball and the work I do for the Pelicans. My next favorite is having dinner on the beach. My wife and I grab a couple of subs and stay until it gets dark. I also love my Santa Claus gig. I have so much fun doing that.  Is there anything that you miss or would like to see in Myrtle Beach? We have everything; there is always something to do here. I’d like to see more patient drivers. 

Parks & Recreation Centers in Little River

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 by Danielle McFadden  There are three community/recreation centers in Little River: C.B. Berry Community Center, North Strand Recreation Center, and the NMB Park & Sports Complex. C.B. BERRY COMMUNITY CENTER Run by Horry County Parks and Recreation, the C.B. Berry Community & Historical Center provides space for recreational programming and community events, and serves as a visitors center for Vereen Memorial Gardens. Vereen Memorial Gardens is comprised of 115 acres of forest and marshland along the Intracoastal Waterway. Open to the public, it provides easy-to-traverse nature trails and boardwalks. The center is also very popular as a wedding venue. All are welcome to the Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 3 at 6 pm, located at 2250 Hwy 179, Little River, SC 29566. NORTH STRAND RECREATION CENTER Run by Horry County Parks & Recreation, North Strand Recreation Center offers fitness classes, art classes, after-school and summer camp programs, youth and adult sports, and more. The center features a full-size gymnasium, walking track, fitness room, multipurpose room, baseball/softball diamond, three multipurpose fields, and more. All are welcome to the Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 5 at 6 pm. It is located at 120 S. Hwy 57, Little River, SC 29566. NORTH MYRTLE BEACH PARKS & SPORTS COMPLEX Located in Little River at the intersection of Highway 90 and Robert Edge Parkway, the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex accommodates a variety of sports tournaments and offers numerous programs for locals. They also have separate dog parks for small and large dogs. This month, they are the location of the Christmas Light Show, featuring lit holiday scenes, hot chocolate and s’mores, visits with Santa, a village obstacle course, and more. It is located at 150 Citizens Circle, Little River, SC 29566.

Festive Carolina Forest in 2019

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by Emily Smith No matter what’s being celebrated during the holiday season, twinkling lights are sure to inspire a magical feeling for all.  Light shows have grown in popularity over the past few years, with determined and creative individuals now able to transform their home into a dazzling wonderland. Below are some tips to help you get started creating your own display.  It can be helpful to plan your light installation vision with the aid of some pen and paper in advance, to avoid hanging lights that may be broken, too short, or too long.  Take measurements of your home and the area you want to cover. That will provide a starting point to figure out the type of lights you wish to use and how many will be needed. Each unit of lights is referred to as a “channel” and it’s been recommended for beginners to start with 16-32 channels.  Many light displays require a control system and the applicable computer software. Many brands offer basic controllers to start beginners off simply, and can even come pre-programmed, as well as offer different levels of user-engagement complexity.    For more personalized control, which also allows for greater customization, there are kits and individual pieces like digital I/O (input/output) boards. Be sure to keep in mind that both pre-made and custom-built systems require high voltage, so take all precautions with your adapters and power source.  Multiple programs exist to help create light shows, typically breaking down the chosen songs into seconds, making it easier to assign light patterns to the beat. Some companies sell the software along with the hardware needed in one convenient package. Last but certainly not least, some impressive speakers tie everything together. If your HOA does not have specific sound level limitations for your neighborhood, please keep in mind Horry County ordinances do, particularly between the hours of 11pm and 7am.  Many residents have discovered that creating their own neighborhood show takes months of planning, plus trial and error. This also makes post-season a good time to prepare for next year. Stringed Christmas lights are typically still available to buy after the holidays end, when seasonal products go on clearance. It’s the ideal time to stock up and purchase additional lights as needed, perhaps even a little extra. For those who would rather abstain from bedecking their own house, the Grand Strand has a number of lights shows open to the public throughout the month of December.  The beloved Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet begins Thursday, December 5.  Each weekend before Christmas, thousands of lights and candles shimmer in the night, while guests can enjoy holiday music and warm festive drinks.  In North Myrtle Beach, The Great Christmas Light Show runs throughout the entire month of December. Over a mile of lights to drive through, and Santa’s Village to play in, means this attraction is as fun as it is beautiful.  Beyond these two popular, festive events, there will be ceremonies and parades throughout the area. Whether you decide to create your own festival of lights, or prefer to admire the ingenuity of another, this season remains the most magical for a reason. 

Gingerbread Cookies

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Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread Cookies There are many sundries characteristic of the holiday season, but none so quintessentially homey as the sight and smell of gingerbread.  Gingerbread traces its origins to ancient Greece and was immensely popular by the Middle Ages. Over time, as is wont to happen, creativity took hold, and gingerbread were fashioned into all manner of shapes and sizes, and decorated elaborately, even gilded in gold.  Today, rather than gold, most people opt for Royal Icing, candy canes, gum drops, nonpareils, and the like. There’s also the tradition of making gingerbread to hang from your tree. So this month, gather family and friends round the table, grab your tub of icing, and see where your creativity takes you. This recipe can be used both for cookies as well as a traditional gingerbread house.  Dough Ingredients ½ cup butter, at room temperature ½ cup firmly packed dark brown sugar ¼ cup molasses 1 Tbs ground cinnamon 1 Tbs ground ginger 1 ½ tsp ground cloves 1 tsp baking soda 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 Tbs water parchment paper Dough Directions Oven 375 degrees. Bake time: 7-15 minutes (longer for a house).  In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, sugars, spices, and soda until fully incorporated and smooth. Turn the beater to low, and gradually add flour and water until a stiff dough forms. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.  On a flat surface, roll dough out to your desired level of thickness and cut into shapes, or follow a gingerbread house pattern. Place the cookies onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, and be sure the edges aren’t touching. Allow the cookies to cool before removing, and cool thoroughly before frosting.  Royal Icing Ingredients 3 ¾ cups of confectionary sugar/powdered sugar 1 large egg white 1 tsp almond extract, or lemon juice Royal Icing Directions Using a beater, mix all ingredients together at high speed until smooth. The icing should be thin enough to pass through a pastry bag with a narrow decorating tip, but not so runny that it looses its shape. Add slightly more lemon juice, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Introducing Pawleys Island

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by Kevin Gunn The Coastal Insider is excited to welcome the Pawleys Island section to our ever-growing community publication. We look forward to providing the residents and visitors of this area with relevant information about the events and activities happening in their community.  The locale is quietly tucked away on the Southern part of the Grand Strand, roughly thirty minutes south of Myrtle Beach. Sporting pristine beaches, white sand dunes, adjacent creeks for crabbing, and world class golf courses, Pawleys Island is known for its laid-back lifestyle, and upscale, unpretentious peace and calm.  The area also has a fantastic restaurant scene. Most of the restaurants and bars are locally owned, each with its own unique personality and charms.  If you’re looking for an elegant night out, Franks, and Franks Outback are two must-try spots. Looking for that classic Italian eatery? Check out the flavors at Pastaria811 which offers mouth-watering homemade sauces and bread. If you appreciate eclectic, modern fare with low-country themes, Perrone’s Restaurant & Bar is the place for you. And if it’s just a pint you desire, Quigleys is an old staple.  Pawleys is also filled with boutique shopping venues. You won’t find big box stores here, and that’s just the way Pawleys residents want it.  Take a stroll through the Hammock Shops, a shopping plaza that will make you feel like you stepped back in time. Or explore one of the many galleries that wait at every turn, showcasing the craftsmanship and style of local artists.  So next time you’re thinking about a day trip, instead of searching for places far off, why not take a short trip south to one of the Grand Strand’s hidden gems? This peaceful, unassuming town is waiting for you. 

Russo’s For Rescues

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A Local Pack and Ship Business and an Animal-Loving Artist Team Up This Holiday Season by Melissa LaScaleia Since 2008, ShipOnSite, Myrtle Beach’s full-service neighborhood shipping center, has been the anchor sponsor for the Best Friend of the Week Program for Easy Radio 105.9/100.7 and Talk 94.5.  ShipOnSite is owned and operated by entrepreneur Frank Espinal. Since it was established in North Carolina in 2003, ShipOnSite has grown to eleven stores— each of which offers pack and ship services with all the regular carriers, as well as specializing in crating large and delicate items.  “I’ve always felt that businesses should give back to the communities that they serve,” Frank says. “And that’s the foremost reason why I found and continue to sponsor the Best Friend Program.”  Through the program, a shelter animal will be featured live on the air once a week, and perhaps win the heart of a listener who will provide him or her, a permanent, loving home. Also as part of this program, ShipOnSite collects pet food and supplies to distribute to the local area shelters. Since they began this initiative in 2008, ShipOnSite has collected 63,500 lb of goods for animals. As a ‘thank you’ for supporting this cause, when people come into the store to make a donation, they also receive a discount on their shipping service.  “At the end of the day, this program is a way for ShipOnSite to give back, and fill a gap that is needed in our community,” Frank says. “Mohammed Ghandi said: ‘The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way in which its animals are treated.’ That quote really resonates with me.  Better together. Artist Dean Russo (left), with Frank Espinal (right), teamed up to launch the Russo’s For Rescues campaign in Myrtle Beach. — Photo Rachel Ogg “I spent twenty years in the military— I’ve been deployed to all parts of the world— and I can tell you, the one thing you notice really quickly is that the animals are neglected— just running rabid and starving in the streets. You see it everywhere. That’s why I chose to support the animals. Because they cannot speak for themselves.”  Recently, Frank was looking for another means of raising funds to help animal shelters.  “As non-profits, they rely on donations to support the animals’ needs,” Frank says. “When they run out of funding or space, that’s when they are compelled to take drastic measures, including euthanizing animals.”  When one of Frank’s customers, an art framer with connections in the art world, told him that a gallery in Charleston was working on a partnership with a world-renowned artist to establish a fundraising campaign to support animal shelters in South Carolina, Frank decided to meet with the parties involved to see if he could offer assistance.  The gallery is the S. Cato International Investment Gallery, and the artist is animal lover and advocate, Dean Russo. As an artist, Dean’s large-scale, colorful portrait paintings have been described as ‘Andy Warhol crossed with pop artist Keith Haring’s fondness for animals, with a little bit of Louisiana ‘Blue Dog’ artist George Rodrigue thrown in.’ The fundraising campaign Dean began is called Russo’s for Rescues. Through it, art and animal-lovers can purchase framed reproductions of Dean’s original portraits of animals, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the local animal shelter of your choice. The gallery and Dean were wanting to launch the fundraising campaign out of Charleston, with the Charleston Humane Society as the main beneficiary of the proceeds. But they were running into road blocks— as their lack of connections with the Humane Society was preventing them moving forward with their intentions. A patron admires Dean’s art work at the Meet and Greet held at the Alabama Theatre in Myrtle Beach on October 25. — Photo Rachel Ogg This was where Frank was able to help. Because of his established, long-time connections with all of the area shelters in Myrtle Beach, he was able to help them spawn the initiative much more quickly by transferring the launch campaign to Myrtle Beach.  “Once ShipOnSite got involved, we opened the shelters of the Grand Strand market to the fundraising campaign,” he says. “Because we were operating under the Best Friend of the Week Program and already had the framework established, not only could we begin, but we also expanded who would benefit, enabling the new initiative to provide funds to more than just one shelter.”  Now there are a multitude of shelters that will benefit from Russo’s for Rescues. Just a few of them are: All 4 Paws; Coastal Animal Rescue; Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach; W.A.R.M.; St. Francis Animal Shelter; The Animal Care Center of Horry County; Grand Strand Humane Society; Pet Helpers; and the Humane Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Charleston. (Visit www.russosforrescues.com to see the full list.) “Additionally, through working so closely with all the area shelters as a sponsor of the Best Friend Program, I could give Russo’s for Rescues all the information that they needed about the shelters,” Frank says.  The group began to implement the idea in August. Dean’s agent, the Regency Fine Art Gallery in Atlanta, set up the website— www.russosforrescues.com—where people can purchase Dean’s artwork in a variety of sizes.  Russo’s for Rescues was launched in Myrtle Beach with a Meet and Greet at the Alabama Theatre on Friday, October 25. Dean Russo came for several hours to meet fans and animal-supporters and sign his artwork.  This holiday season, you can gift a print, such as the one shown above, to yourself or a friend, and feel good knowing that you’ve also helped support shelter animals. — Photo Rachel Ogg The following day, there was a Meet and Greet in Charleston, at the S. Cato International Investment Gallery on King Street. Between the two events, they raised a total of $3,000.  Today, art lovers and animal lovers can come together to raise badly needed funds for shelters, while Dean’s artwork stands as a visual reminder of the need to promote adoption, and advocate for the … Read more

PaintRx Myrtle Beach

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We Take the Pain Out of Painting by Melissa LaScaleia The owner of PaintRx in Myrtle Beach forged his company’s roots while attending Purdue University in Indiana.  Joel was looking for an internship for post-graduation, when he came across a flyer that offered to teach business skills to those who wanted to buy into a franchise.  “Running my own business had always been my dream,” Joel says. “So I applied for it. The company was called College Pro Painters. Painting isn’t the coolest, sexiest business out there, but I decided to pursue it while I was still in college and see how it worked out.     “I was doing a lot as a college student, and my parents really didn’t want me to sign up for it. I had to invest a lot of money to buy the franchise, and keep employees busy full time, and I was locked in for one year.” He went ahead anyway, and his junior and senior years in college, Joel broke the company’s industry records for being the best in several categories: Best in the Industry, Top Gun Rookie Sales, Quality Manager of the Year, and Brand Experience Award.  The first year, he had twelve painters working for him— and the second, he had twenty.  The painters of PaintRx are overseen by foremen who have between 20-35 years of experience. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “I was working hard,” he says. “The second year, I was again awarded Quality Manager.”  Then College Pro Painters recruited him to work for them in a wide-scale capacity. After graduation, he oversaw all the franchises in Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio, and was recruiting college students to start their own franchises. He was a general manager for three years, and trained his team of twenty franchisees on every aspect of the business— from labor techniques, to managing employees, to marketing and sales.    “I went from running a small local business to growing and scaling the business throughout the region,” he says. “College Pro Painters trained me on what I know today.”  From there he went to work for a national franchise, and oversaw all the operations of the business with them.  In June 2018, Joel’s fiancé was assigned to Myrtle Beach for her residency as an emergency room doctor. The two relocated here, and Joel opened his own business once more— named PaintRx, in her honor.  With PaintRx, Joel draws upon all of the skill, passion, organization, leadership, and customer service that he employed in his college years and beyond, that made him and the companies he was involved with such a success.  PaintRx does not contract out any of their jobs, nor do they float between them, so you can expect exceptional work, delivered consistently, and finished in a timely manner. — Photo Meganpixels Parker PaintRx does all types of interior and exterior painting for residential and commercial establishments, including kitchen cabinets, garage floor epoxies, boat docks, and decks. They don’t use any subcontractors, so people know they can expect the same quality work Joel’s always delivered, done over the course of consecutive days without any bouncing around from job to job.  “As a company, we show up, and we show up on time,” Joel says. “We deliver on our promises, and I stay in tight communication with customers. We are professional.”  PaintRx does any necessary prep work like dry wall repairs, caulking, or priming.  “We haul most of our equipment away at the end of the day,” he says, “and if we do need to leave it, we leave it tidy. If it’s an interior job, we move all the furniture and use drop cloths to protect everything.  “We use all top-of-the-line paints from Sherwin Williams, Benjamin Moore, and PPG. We don’t use any builder-grade paint, unless it’s specifically requested. We buy so much paint that we get great discounts, and we pass that savings on to our clients. We offer free estimates, and provide a detailed proposal in which everything is itemized so our clients can see the breakdown of costs, and choose the services they want.”  PaintRx will do any necessary prep work before undertaking a paint job such as dry wall repair or priming. They haul most equipment away at the end of the day, and use drop cloths and move your furniture to keep everything protected, ensuring that they take the pain out of painting for you. — Photo Meganpixels Parker “Our painters cut the straightest lines in town,” Joel adds. “Our foremen have been in this industry anywhere from 20-35 years, and the rest of our crew members have years of experience as well.”  They’re not only skilled, but also very friendly, polite and professional as their Facebook and Google reviews attest. “I’ve been doing this now for about eight years,” Joel says. “I’m here to stay.  “My goal is to raise the bar in this industry by providing an exceptional experience. And I’ve learned to take care of your customers. If you do that, the rest is going to work out.” PaintRx Licensed and bonded. 843-999-0226 www.paintrx.co Facebook @ PaintRx

Jiffy Lube

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Creating Customers For Life by Melissa LaScaleia This year, Jiffy Lube celebrates its 40th anniversary as a company that prides itself on fast oil changes delivered with excellent customer service. The president and co-owner of the six Jiffy Lube locations along the Grand Strand, Steve Allison, reflects on how he got started in the business, what his company offers, and where they’re headed next.    In the early nineties, Steve was working for a company installing computer systems in quick lubes across the country. In 1993, he came to Surfside Beach to install the point of sale system in a new Texaco Xpress Lube store. Steve had also managed quick lube locations throughout Portland, Oregon since the age of eighteen, and was able to help the new owner get started in the industry.  When that owner opened a second location in North Myrtle Beach, and offered Steve the opportunity to move to South Carolina and purchase half of the business, Steve jumped at the chance. He moved from Oregon to South Carolina in 1994. “We quickly grew to six locations along the Grand Strand, and made a deal after our fifth location, that I would purchase the other half of the business,” Steve says.  In 2008, Steve teamed up with his current business partner, Al Chance, who is a dear friend, and the current CEO of the company. Together, they decided to purchase several Jiffy Lube franchise locations in Florida. At the same time, they converted their six Grand Strand Shell Rapid Lube locations into Jiffy Lubes as well.  It took them less than five years before Jiffy Lube International recognized their hard work and customer service, designating their company as Franchisee of the Year across the network of approximately 2,000 stores.  Jiffy Lube understands that your time is valuable. That’s why the team members at all the locations along the Grand Strand are trained to have you in and served and on your way again in 20 minutes tops. And you never need an appointment. — Photo Rachel Ogg “We are super proud of the Franchisee of the Year award,” Steve says. “We have been able to surround ourselves with an amazing team that continues to elevate the customer experience. In fact, our customer service score continues to rank among the highest of all the Jiffy Lubes across the country.”  The Grand Strand Jiffy Lube locations deliver on that designation, taking customer service to the next level. As part of their Jiffy Lube Signature Service Oil Change, they will run a full safety inspection on your vehicle; check and top off all fluids; set the tires to the proper manufacturer specifications; vacuum the interior; and wash your windows— all in about 15-20 minutes. The best part: you never need an appointment.        “We understand that your time is valuable,” Steve says. “That’s why all our team members are trained and certified to get you back on the road in 15-20 minutes. We know having your car serviced isn’t your favorite thing to do, so we try to give you your time back, without the worry and stress of car maintenance.”  Jiffy Lube also offers a free top off service, so you can go into any location and get your fluids checked and topped off, as well as your tire pressure checked, anytime in between oil changes. They’ll even add more oil if needed.  Back in the days when gas stations were full-service, an attendant would rush out to your car to serve you when you pulled in. Today, each of Steve’s Jiffy Lube locations delivers that same type of old-fashioned service. When you pull into one of their locations, a service technician will actually jog out to your car to greet you and get you taken care of right away.  “We’ve built our business doing things like jogging out to cars when they pull in; nobody else does that,” Steve says. “I believe it’s just the right way to welcome someone to our business. For me, first impressions are everything.  “We know that we are only as good as the team members that we have in each local store. So we are always looking to hire great people that will go above and beyond— men and women with great attitudes that truly understand our ‘at your service mentality.’” Jiffy Lube now has Jiffy Lube Multicare stores along the Grand Strand, where ASE certified mechanics are able to perform more in-depth car maintenance services on your vehicle. — Photo Rachel Ogg If first impressions are important to Steve, last impressions are equally so. That’s why every customer receives the red-carpet treatment— in actuality. After your service, a team member will roll out a red carpet for you, giving you a chance to wipe your feet as you’re getting into your car.  “It’s also a gesture of thanks,” Steve says. “And it sets us apart. We know people can go anywhere to get an oil change and they chose us, and we simply want to show our appreciation.”  “When you come into any of our locations,” he adds, “our stores are clean, our technicians— their uniforms and their hands are clean, and your car is clean. We care about the details.     “These are the things that we are known for, and why our customers return to us each time they need their vehicles serviced. It’s our mission to create a customer for life and take care of the family fleet of vehicles.”  In keeping with that mission, Jiffy Lube does much more than oil changes. They replace filters and fluids, and offer fuel system cleaning, tire rotations, and wiper blades. They now have Jiffy Lube Multicare stores, where ASE certified mechanics perform more in-depth maintenance like brakes, tire changes, and full tune-ups.  “Nobody likes car payments, or wants to buy another car because they didn’t properly take care of the one they have,” Steve says. “So bring it to us, and let us take care of … Read more

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