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Sweetie’s Sweet Potato Soup

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Our recipe this month is brought to you by the Market Common’s very own Emma Ware— nutritionist by trade and a foodie by passion. Her new Fast Wholesome Cooking cookbook has us all prepared to sweeten up our sweeties this Valentine’s month! To learn more about Emma and her foods, visit www.itsnotadiet.net. Sweetie’s Sweet Potato Soup Ingredients Serves 2-4 4 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes4 cups of water1 tsp salt1 tsp black pepper1 Tbs cinnamon1 Tbs curry powder1 Tbs fresh grated ginger3 Tbs olive oil5-8 Tbs honey2 ounces half-and-half (or non-dairy creamer of choice)Fresh cilantro Directions In a large pot, cook the sweet potatoes in 2 cups of water until soft, approximately 15 minutes. Drain and mash. Add the remaining ingredients, except the cilantro, including an additional 2 cups of water. Simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from the stove, and allow to cool for 20 minutes, or until the soup is not scalding. Transfer the soup from your pot into a blender. Puree until creamy and the color is rich. Add more water, half-and-half, and seasoning until soup reaches desired thickness and taste. Serve the soup warm and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Click here for more great recipes. 

Q&A with Neal and Marta Gielstra

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Market Common MYN (2/16)

From a Tiny Fishing Village in the Netherlands to Sunny Myrtle Beach by Melissa LaScaleia Introduce me to your family. My wife is Marta. We have four children: a son who lives in Florida; two sons in Texas; and an adopted daughter in the Netherlands. Why did you move to Myrtle Beach? Essentially for adventure. I was chief engineer on a banana boat in St. Lucia, many years ago. And while there, my wife and I met a doctor from Myrtle Beach who became a good friend of ours. He sponsored us to move here. We came directly to Myrtle Beach in 1966, and bought a 6,000 square foot house towards the north. In 2008 we bought a townhouse in the Market Common, right behind the Cupcake Cafe. Four years ago we decided to downsize and move into our townhouse. Where are all the places you came from? My wife and I came from a small fisherman’s shipyard village in the Netherlands. Do you have a favorite place in the Market Common? We have 3 favorite places: Gordon Biersch, P.F. Chang’s, and the Brass Tap. What’s your favorite thing about living in the Market Common? The fact that you can walk and drive your golf cart anywhere. We very much appreciate the golf cart path that the state park made. The unique way of living here is what we love about it, and the people too. It’s a real village inside of a town. How has your lifestyle changed since moving to Myrtle Beach? The culture is totally different from ours. When we first moved here in the ’60s, Myrtle Beach was much bigger than our native village. What new activities have you taken up since moving here? I started a business in heating and air conditioning, contracting for many restaurants in the area. Then I went back to school in 1988 to Coastal Carolina, and became a project manager for outside research, like beach erosion and building research equipment. Do you find people here friendlier or more at ease? We came from a town of 4,000 people and you knew everybody there. We find it similar here. In general, the people are very friendly. What’s nice is that people from the North come down here and then they become friendlier too. What are your favorite things to do here? We like to go to the beach and read. Is there anything you would like to see in the Market Common? An organic grocery store. Click here for more Q&A.

The Great Transition— Part 5 of 7

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Market Common Redevelopment

This story is part 5 of a 7-part series which chronicles the redevelopment of the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base and its evolution into the Market Common from the perspective of retired Air Force Colonel Buddy Styers, executive director of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base Redevelopment Authority. Our history continues where we left off with Part 4, in the January 2017 issue.  The Redevelopment Years of The Market Common by Melissa LaScaleia “After we started building the Market Common,” Buddy says, “we realized, and thankfully the city also realized, that this building project was a great opportunity to add amenities that didn’t exist anywhere else in Myrtle Beach. Today, when you drive by the lake, you can see mothers and fathers walking their children, people sitting in bench swings— it’s the kind of scene we always envisioned for the Market Common. Luckily, the city shared our vision and was very interested in making that possible.” The city built the ball field complex, the roller skating rink, and the soccer fields— and they renovated Crabtree Gym— all of which have been instrumental in the growth of the Market Common by contributing to its wonderful, homey vibe. Additionally, Horry Georgetown Technical College played a major role in the redevelopment process. Through federal law, and with the approval and support of the Redevelopment Authority, the college received property in the Market Common at no cost. Horry Georgetown Technical College moved their three biggest programs from the Conway campus to the Market Common: medical/nursing, dentistry, and culinary arts. That freed up a lot of space on their landlocked Conway campus for other programs and was a win win for both college and community. The Redevelopment Authority helped finance many of the school’s projects in the Market Common. Probably the most important was the expansion of the nursing program. “Back then,” Buddy reminisces, “we had a shortage of nurses in Myrtle Beach. And the college could only take forty people per year who wanted to go to nursing school. They had a waiting list of 300 people.” Together, the college and the Redevelopment Authority converted what was the base hospital into the Robert E. Speir Building, where the nursing program was moved. The building was named after a local doctor; and the Speir family, along with the Redevelopment Authority and many of the local medical community, made generous financial contributions to help with its construction and implementation. With the completion of the building, the program was greatly expanded and enhanced by the increased number of new students they could accept each year. The Redevelopment Authority also helped finance an annex to the Speir Building to house the dental program classrooms and community dental clinic. Traditionally, schools contribute an energy of freshness, youthful vitality, learning, and enthusiasm. The expansion of the Technical College’s programs in the Market Common was an asset to the community by its presence alone; plus, new graduates boost the economy because they are a workforce providing services that benefit everyone. “If the city and Horry Georgetown Tech hadn’t gotten so involved in this process, our development probably would have been slower,” Buddy says. “They added the amenities that make people want to be a part of this place— that gives them a reason to come. In the end, they’ve been real assets to the development and creation of this urban village.” “The Redevelopment Authority was a development-finance partner for the city, helping to make these projects happen,” he continues. “We put money into redoing the gymnasium, Crabtree Gym, the recreation center, and ball fields. The city paid much of their share with tax increment financing (TIF).” The legality of tax increment financing requires applicants to disclose any and all projects that they might finance with those tax increments before applying for it. You have to be transparent about what you want to do with the money, and have your long-term vision in place. The TIF plan passed, and over a ten-year period the bonds were paid off; the other projects listed in the plan have been implemented. Those projects were the fire station and the ball field complex, and the development of the Market Common’s public infrastructure including parking garages, streets, sidewalks, and recreation areas. Tax increment financing places a valuation on personal property. As the value of property increases, the taxes increase on personal property, and the increase pays for the infrastructure that was already put in place. “As we started building single family homes and saw other economic improvements, that gave the city the opportunity to pay off the bonds that they had purchased to pay for the public infrastructure for the Market Common,” Buddy says. “Using a TIF allowed for the Market Common to be developed, as the city didn’t have any funds in their overall budget for the area’s projects. “If not for the TIF,” he adds, “it would have been difficult for Myrtle Beach to find tax infrastructure for any of this to happen.” Click here to read the next article in the series on “The Redevelopment Years of The Market Common.”

Colonel Lewis

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Market Common Air Force

WWII Fighter Pilot Ace and Myrtle Beach Base Commander by Melissa LaScaleia Lewis Street in the Market Common links the well-known DeVille Street— with its offerings of electric bike rides, sushi, and yoga— to Johnson Avenue, which leads out to Farrow Parkway. The street is named after Colonel Warren R. Lewis, who was born on Christmas Eve in 1919, in Superior, Iowa. Lewis was at school at Estherville Junior College when World War II broke out in Europe, in 1939.  He abandoned his studies to join the Canadian Royal Air Force, a segue to enlisting with the United States Air Force.  He transferred to the United States Air Force in 1941, and was assigned to the 8th Fighter Group; this placement marked the start of his long and illustrious career with the U.S. military. Lewis was stationed at Milne Bay, New Guinea as a P-38 fighter pilot in the latter years of the war. In 1943 he was reassigned to the 431st Fighter Squadron, 475th Fighter Group, as a first lieutenant. He was subsequently reassigned to the 433rd and promoted to captain. He also saw combat in Italy with the 82nd and 31st Fighter Groups where he flew P-51s in addition to P-38s. He became a fighter pilot “ace” after he shot down a Zeke, one of Japan’s premier fighter aircraft, in 1944. It was recorded that throughout his military career, he shot down seven aircraft in all, with more logged as ‘probably shot down’ or ‘damaged.’  He was promoted to major in 1944, and shortly thereafter, squadron commander of the 433rd. In 1944, he was rotated back to the states for a break; he returned to service in 1945. Lewis was promoted to colonel in 1959. He served a combat tour during the Vietnam War where he was stationed at Tuy Hoa Air Base, Vietnam. He also commanded the 31st Fighter Wing at Aviano Air Base, in Italy. Lewis was given the post of base commander of the 354th Tactical Fighter Wing at our very own Myrtle Beach Air Force Base in the 1960s. In September of 1971, he retired from the Air Force. Lewis logged a total of 1,171 combat flying hours; flew 591 missions; and was awarded 27 Air Medals: 3 Distinguished Flying Crosses with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, and two Legion of Merit medals with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster. Colonel Warren R. Lewis was said to have made a positive impact on others both in his military and civilian life. He was noted as a family man with a kind heart, who loved golf and fishing. Colonel Warren R. Lewis died on January 13, 2006 and is buried at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, in San Antonio, Texas. To read more of our history features click here. 

Emma’s School of Healthy Eating

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Market Common School of Healthy Eating

Where Health and Practicality Walk Hand in Hand by Melissa LaScaleia Tucked away in the Market Common, down the end of Howard Avenue, is a quaint, white building with inviting wicker furniture out front. Come close to the door and subtle cursive writing indicates that you’ve arrived at Emma’s School of Healthy Eating. Inside, you’ll be introduced to all things culinary and educational for whatever ails you in the world of food and health. Emma Ware is a certified nutritionist and holistic nutritionist; certified clinical homeopath; and a fitness consultant. She is also the owner of Emma’s School of Healthy Eating. Emma helps all kinds of people with all kinds of challenges in the realm of food— those who need guidance shopping for food, cooking, feeding their children, losing weight, feeling better— even putting their kitchens together. Emma started in this field of work twenty-five years ago when she was living in Los Angeles. At that time, she contracted spinal meningitis, a disease which creates inflammation in the spine and brain, and can lead to death or severe handicaps. “Little did I know where my journey was going to take me,” she says. The numerous health issues that having meningitis created for Emma led her to seek the help of many different doctors. One of those was an internist, a doctor who specializes in internal medicine. But he also practiced alternative medicine.  He became Emma’s mentor, and began teaching her how to manage her health through alternative medicine and nutrition so she could start helping herself feel better while she was still under the care of traditional doctors.  “My first job, once I was starting to feel well enough to work, was at a health food store,” Emma says. “I learned everything about alternative products and I helped a lot of people. It was there that I met a pharmaceutical rep who introduced me to a gastroenterologist, and he gave me my first job working for him as a nutritionist.” “I mainly assisted people with weight loss,” she continues. “I learned how to cook and put formulas together to address people’s digestion problems, and I taught them how to get organized around food and the ways they nourished themselves. Integrating change is something you have to learn how to manage. It’s like anything else.” In Los Angeles, Emma found herself working for oncologists, chiropractors, M.D.s, and plastic surgeons, as well as having her own practice. “Because I had the opportunity and great experiences with many types of doctors, I learned a lot of anatomy and kinesiology,” she says. “From there, I started to implement nutrition. I’ve learned that you can try all kinds of things, but if you want to feel better all the time, and get results that last, you have to change what you eat. If the body is completely nourished, you’re less emotional and you have fewer issues. But if the body is malnourished, you’re going to have lots of issues.” After some time in LA, Emma was craving a change in surroundings. She had fallen in love with Myrtle Beach when she had lived here in the ’80s. Emma (right) in her office-kitchen. In her work with clients, she focuses on educating about the importance of selecting high quality food. (Photo Meganpixels Parker) “I loved the charm of Myrtle Beach,” she says. “It was small and quaint. I wanted to come back; I wanted something different.” She moved here in 2005, and began working with Dr. Cremer in Murrells Inlet for four years, before starting her own independent practice. “Now, I’m on my own,” she says. “Today I get a lot of referrals from a lot of different doctors in the area. I still specialize in weight loss, but I’m also helping people with digestive disorders and teaching them a better way of eating. I love what I do because I see people feeling better, losing weight, and keeping it off permanently. I see people becoming confident in how they manage their health, and knowing what foods to choose that are higher in quality.” Eventually Emma bought a house in the Market Common, and rather than commute to the Inlet, decided to move her practice to her neighborhood. “I love it here,” she says. “It’s like a little city. Everybody is walking— and everybody is walking their dogs. You have the theatre, the restaurants, and then you’re across the street from the beach. What better way to spend a weekend than shopping, catching a movie, and then dinner at a restaurant? And the Market Common has the nicest people.” Her office and consultation space has a kitchen where she teaches private cooking classes, but she now primarily teaches virtually. “The cooking classes are very important because I emphasize putting at least 50% of the effort they’re putting into change, into the kitchen. In that way they can eat better foods without the preservatives and additives. I teach them how to cook easy, quick, healthy recipes. My philosophy is to scrap the dieting, and go back to basics.” Her newly released, self-published cookbook— Fast Wholesome Cooking, was created as a tool to help her clients do just this. The book is for people who don’t know their way around the kitchen, who don’t know how to cook, and who don’t want to spend an entire day in the kitchen trying to. The recipes, as the title suggests, are all fast, easy and wholesome. It’s available at her store in the Market Common and online. “I believe these diets which today saturate our media have brought a lot of confusion to our society and I see it everyday with clients,” Emma says. “They’re very confused about what’s healthy, what’s not, and how the body works. They don’t know whom to listen to or whom to believe. When I work with people, I focus on educating them about many different types of foods and the quality of foods they select.” Emma goes over her clients’ food history and … Read more

A Message from Jim Parker, Co-Owner of the Insider

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A message from the Editor The New Year’s Eve celebration here in the Market Common, a Southern Times Square was a great event this year that brought out over 10,000 people and included a spectacular fireworks display. My daughter Megan took the aerial shot of the Market Common on New Year’s Eve (see Events, A7); she captures the beauty and warmth of the wonderful community we have here. We’d like to thank the Market Common for putting on such an enjoyable event—we’ve heard nothing but positive remarks from those who attended. We’d also like to say a big thank you and a fond farewell to AC Bethea, who has created delicious recipes for us with unfailing dedication for many editions of the Insider. AC is moving to Charleston, and we wish her every success with her career and new pursuits. She’ll be popping in to say hello from time to time, and even sharing her voice and creativity every now and again. In lieu of her departure, we are pleased and proud to introduce you to Emma Ware. Emma is a nutritionist, and a Market Common small business owner. Our local business section this month captures her story and illustrates the ways in which she serves our community. We are grateful that Emma has agreed to share her wisdom and straightforward, nutritious cooking secrets in our paper, with all our readers, on a monthly basis. Welcome Emma! And speaking of creativity, that’s our theme for the Insider this month. Art and creative endeavors foster the growth of communities—when people come together and work in partnership to create, whether it be a business, a painting, or a different outcome, relationships are formed, fun is had, and everyone benefits. Likewise, when people create on their own and then share that with others, the same chain reaction of dialogue, togetherness, and positivity occurs. Be sure to check out the front-page article which reveals the ways in which our local non-profit art gallery, the Seacoast Artist Gallery and Guild, contributes to our community. We hope the Insider inspires you to get your own creative juices flowing this month. You never know whose life you might inspire by your own pursuits. Are you or someone you know doing something notable in our neighborhood? Contact us with comments and suggestions at community@marketcommoninsider.com – Jim Parker Editor-in-chief and co-owner of Properties at the Market Common

In Which Charlie Falls In Love

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Market Common Dog

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the 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. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie gets more than he bargained for when he goes for a walk and has an encounter of the romantic kind with cupid. Mmmmm deep winter— a time to curl up with blankets and take lots of naps, and invariably, at some point, get cuddled. But like the good doggie I am, committed to my human, and in keeping with my New Year’s resolution of helping Jim to get in shape, I’ve been asking for more walks lately. Jim’s been taking me out to the lake, since it’s so close now to our new office—but you should know all about that by now, and if you don’t, you should read up about it here. One particular day, Jim and I are taking a leisurely stroll around the lake. As I watch all the people walking and jogging, and all the other dogs taking their people for walks on leashes, I’m lost in gentle reveries about what are some of my favorite things about February besides naps, blankets, and cuddling. Well, Valentine’s Day for sure—for a ladies man such as myself, (and a lover of everyone in general) how could I not love Valentine’s Day? I have so many wonderful people in my life and so much love to give. Besides, one of the holiday’s trademark colors is red, which is one of our trademark colors at the Insider too. I wonder which of the girl dogs will send me a Valentine? And will Megan get me a new chew toy? Maybe one in the shape of a heart? How could I best celebrate and show appreciation for everyone I care about? Maybe I’ll create art out of Jim’s favorite slippers again. He seemed speechless and red with pleasure the last time I did that, and it’s been awhile since I’ve shown my affection for him in that particular way. And then I threw the strands of fabric all over the house to decorate the doors like confetti. He was so surprised! I’m suddenly distracted from my musings by a shiny something in the nearby tree. I try to get Jim’s attention so I can get closer, but he’s met someone he knows and they’re deep in conversation. I peer closer and it starts to fly towards me. Is it Holly the Holiday Fairy come to visit again, I wonder? It’s about the same size, and looks like a naked, chubby fairy, except the wings are different. But the sunlight is reflecting so brightly off some shiny instrument it’s carrying, that I’m blinded. It circles me in a dizzying way, when suddenly— “Ow!” I yelp in pain, as I feel a sharp poke to my nether regions. Did I just sit on a sandbur? Did that flying guy just poke me? What nerve!! But as I look up, oh bliss, oh joy, oh rapture! I have spotted the love of my life and I am in LOOOOOOOVVEE. It’s the most beautiful creature I have ever seen. The tail, so long and bushy, the frame, so petite and lovely, the ears to pert and pretty, the eyes, coal black—it is…a squirrel. And how could I have been so immune to such beauty until now? As I strain to run to her, I dimly hear Jim make some comment about how dogs love to chase squirrels. I’m tugging and Jim’s not moving, and eventually he scoops me up and I give in. I’m so happy and delirious with love, that it feels like I’m floating in heaven. I will come for you soon, my sweet squirrel! Until next time,  P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner.

Market Common Dentistry

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Market Common Dentistry

Treating Patients Like Family by Melissa LaScaleia As if living in the Market Common isn’t reason enough to smile with ease, Market Common Dentistry gives you more reasons to flash your smile with happiness. The small local dentist office has been located in our community for four years, and is run by Dr. James Mills. Dr. Mills graduated in 1984 from Loyola University with a doctorate in dental surgery. He then completed a one-year general practice residency at the University of Chicago in 1987, which provided training in advanced surgical techniques, anesthesia, and general medicine. He worked as a dentist in private practice in Chicago before moving to Myrtle Beach in 1991. Once here, he purchased an existing dental practice which he moved and expanded. Currently, he is in his third location in Myrtle Beach. “And, it’s the best one yet,” he says. The dental office is a freestanding building with ample parking, located one-third of a mile west of P.F. Chang’s and across the street from the soccer fields. It is equipped with the latest in technology as well as amenities for optimal patient comfort. “The most up-and-coming neighborhoods in Myrtle Beach are here in the Market Common,” Dr. Mills says. “It’s a community within a community. You can walk out the door of my practice and see the beautiful lake. It’s an outstanding area, which is relatively non-commercial. The whole setting is very peaceful. It’s new, it’s clean— and with beautiful sports fields— very family oriented.” Market Common Dentistry is a general dentistry practice, run by Dr. James Mills, and Associate Dr. James Sexton, and does all aspects of dental procedures excepting orthodontics. What makes them unique, is that most dental procedures are able to be done right here in their office, bypassing the need to be referred elsewhere for a more complex or serious procedure. Dr. Mills is qualified to administer IV and oral sedation to patients right in the dental chair and complete those procedures. “I learned implant dentistry back when very few general dentists offered that,” he says. “I also learned to administer IV sedation so as to be able to place implants as well as bone grafting while keeping patients comfortable.” Dr. James Mills attends a patient. (Photo Meganpixels Parker) “We understand that people dislike the dentist,” says Lisa Yazici, the practice manager for the office. “That’s why our entire team, from the front desk, to the dental hygienists, to the doctors— does everything we can to make our patients feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable. We develop a rapport with our patients and listen to them to help put them at ease. Our patients are like family.” Lisa’s job is to run the daily operations of the dental practice and ensure that everything is running smoothly from patient comfort to treatment planning. In addition to containing modern dental equipment, Market Common Dentistry was designed with amenities like heated, vibrating dental chairs, and ceiling-mounted monitors so patients can watch DVDs or television during procedures. Knowing that almost any dental problem that they have can be treated at their pleasant, contemporary office—and knowing that they’ll be cared for by a familiar face for an intense procedure, brings many anxious dental patients a measure of calm and security. “We’re very caring and professional,” Lisa says. “That’s why our motto is ‘smile with confidence, in comfort, beautifully.’” Dr. Mills shares that his favorite thing about practicing dentistry is helping people achieve a healthier mouth, and providing them with the services that they want and need. “I really value and strive for the best long-term patient outcomes,” he says. “It’s gratifying when I can relieve people’s pain and see them leave with a smile and help them make headway with their oral health. We treat a lot of families, and they come to us because of the convenience of the services we offer, availability of appointments, and location.” “We are successful because of the way we treat our patients and the quality of care we provide,” Lisa adds. “We’re not a clinic atmosphere; we’re a private family practice.” Market Common Dentistry on Farrow Parkway. Photo Meganpixels Parker) Market Common Dentistry Envelope Phone Internet-explorer

Properties at the Market Common

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Properties at the Market Common

Real Estate and Community-Building Pioneers: Jim Parker and John Jobson by Melissa LaScaleia For business partners Jim Parker and John Jobson, it takes intelligence, experience, skill, resources, willpower, and passion to craft and deliver a successful product or service. Such is their belief, and such is the driving force and foundation for their business— Properties at the Market Common. These two men have brought their unique life and professional accomplishments together to build what they believe will become a great service in real estate for the Market Common community. At the corner of Phillis Boulevard and Farrow Parkway, the building which houses the Properties at the Market Common and the Insider publication offers a community presence in the Market Common unique to both the real estate and newspaper world. The recent opening of the new office location is the culmination of their long-term vision. This is their story— the story of how they came to be pioneers in the area of real estate and community building. Both men are South Carolina natives: Jim grew up in Camden, and John, North Augusta. Jim joined the Air Force in 1978, and was stationed at the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. “My desk now is about 100 yards from my original barracks— where the lake is situated outside my office window,” Jim says. “I know this place; this is where my adult life started.” Jim was 22 when he got into real estate and joined the Myrtle Beach Board of Realtors and the MLS. “Every company I have ever opened and participated in has always been a member in good standing within the Realtor community,” he says. Having finished his service with the Air Force, Jim, at the age of 23, bought an existing real estate company, the Paul Dorman Realty Company, which had been in operation in Surfside Beach since 1957. He changed the name to Paul Dorman Realty Company, a Division of Parker Realty Inc., and within five years had grown the property management division of the company so that he was managing over 250 annual rental units and acted as broker for fifteen real estate agents. “We were a general brokerage firm but we also excelled at project sales for oceanfront and subdivision project sales in the Surfside and Socastee area,” Jim says. “After operating that company for several years, I made a business decision to focus purely on selling commercial real estate.” Jim sold his general brokerage agency and opened Commercial Landtec Corporation in 1990, as a sole agent. “I traveled across North and South Carolina helping regional and national companies with their expanding new store site selection and acquisition,” he says. John Jobson graduated in architectural engineering in 1974 and initially worked in the architectural field. One day in 1977, he asked one of his mentors for advice about how to advance his professional career, and his mentor recommended that John join him in the development, construction and real estate business. “Consequently, I left architecture and began building homes and developing projects,” he says. “I became a project manager for home construction and later on subdivision development. Eventually, I put away my pickup truck and starting selling real estate, managing real estate sales, and developing communities in and around the market of Augusta, Georgia.” He participated in the management of one of Augusta’s larger brokerage firms of over 100 agents, training and leading some of its new agents into successful real estate careers. After years of working with brokerage and new development, a friend of John’s who lived in Myrtle Beach sought out his expertise and recruited him. “It was 1988, and the market was hot here, much more vibrant than where I was,” John says. “I helped plan, design and build golf course communities during the era of golf course expansion along the Grand Strand. But I was interested in getting into commercial brokerage, and I had met Jim to talk about my plan to move into commercial sales.” The two quickly realized they had much to offer the other, and formed a solid partnership built on mutual respect for their differing and complementing skill sets.  The duo is adept at incorporating their strong and similar values into their business practices. Their business alignment, which began twenty-three years ago, has endured the test of time and the fluctuations of real estate trends within the Grand Strand market area. Their staff comprises key members who have worked along with them for the past 10 to 20 plus years. In 2002 Jim and John expanded Commercial Landtec into the area of real estate information to map land and commercial tracts for sale using a very new internet-based GIS technology. It ultimately evolved into a company called SiteTech Systems, which employed thirty people and led the real estate industry in innovative techniques to display real estate information via the internet in ways no other private real estate information service had ever done. Business partners John Jobson (left) and Jim Parker (right) have worked together as friends and business partners for over 20 years. (Photo Meganpixels Parker) SiteTech now serves the real estate and market analysis businesses associated with banking and real estate for twelve counties from Durham, Raleigh, Fayetteville, Wilmington and Shallotte, NC, to Myrtle Beach and Georgetown, SC. They sold the information business in 2008 to one of their business partners; it’s still in operation today. “Jim and I are innovators,” John says. “We always want to stay a step ahead in delivering services to the market that add value and quality that exceeds the norm of professional practice. We’ve kept that same business philosophy from when we first met, and apply it to all our ventures.” Jim moved to the Market Common when it opened in 2008. “I have watched this community grow and develop first-hand through the years,” he says. “And as a resident, I experienced every stage of its growth. John and I knew three to five years ago that this was a special place … Read more

Carrot Curry Soup

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Market Common Carrot Soup Recipe

This recipe is brought to you by {bib.on Meals creator, AC Bethea— a Grand Strand native and vegetable lover. The following recipe was inspired by the spice pairings she discovered in her new cookbook, Fast Wholesome Cooking, by Market Common nutritionist Emma Ware.  Carrot Curry Soup Ingredients Serves 2-4 8-9 medium carrots2.5 Tbl coconut oil1 half white onion1 (2-inch) piece of fine chopped fresh ginger1 (1.5 inch) piece of fine chopped fresh turmeric, or 1 tsp of ground turmeric1 tsp curry powderpinch of Himalayan sea saltpinch of black pepper2 cups vegetable broth1-2 cups water2-4 sprigs of cilantro (optional)za’atar spice as garnish (optional) Directions   Melt coconut oil in a soup pot over medium heat. Add carrots and sauté until they begin to release their aroma. Add white onion along with the fresh ginger, turmeric and additional dried seasonings. Cook, stirring occasionally, over low to medium heat until the onion is soft. Add the vegetable broth along with water to the pot. Bring to a simmer for 3-5 minutes, then remove from the heat. Allow to cool slightly. Transfer the soup from your pot into a blender. Puree until creamy and rich with color. Taste and adjust with more water, broth or seasoning to satisfy your palate. Garnish the soup with either a drizzle of coconut oil, a sprig of cilantro, fresh ground pepper, za’atar spice, or all of the above. Serve warm. AC Bethea, {bib.on meals creator   Click here for more great recipes. 

Q&A with Nancy and Jerry Toia

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Market Common MYN (1/17)

From Rural New York to Bustling Market Common, Nancy and Jerry Toia Delight In Festivals, Fundraisers, and Their Community by Melissa LaScaleia Introduce me to your family. My husband Jerry and I have two daughters, one lives in New York, the other is down here in Myrtle Beach. We have six grandchildren. Where do you live in the Market Common? The Belmont Building on Howard Ave. Why did you move to the Market Common? The main reason was so we could be out every day of the year. And we wanted to be able to walk to many things. My husband gets his haircut within walking distance. I get my nails done within walking distance. We love that the movie theatre is a bargain – and we love Barnes & Noble and the reasonably priced restaurants.  We like that they offer so many activities at the Market Common throughout the year, like the festivals and charity fundraisers. We were so rural in New York, and down here, we feel like we’re living in a little city. We also appreciate how close we are to the beach. We love the little community we have here in our building; we all watch out for one another. Where are all the places you came from? Just one place: rural Orange County, New York—from a little town called Huguenot. Do you have a favorite place in the Market Common? Travinia Italian Kitchen. It’s my husband’s favorite place. He’s Italian and just loves the food. We’ve both gained weight since we’ve moved here. What’s your favorite thing about living in the Market Common? Not having to get in the car for our shopping— we manage to walk to a Food Lion. Eventually, we may not be driving. How has your lifestyle changed since moving here? We’re much more active, mainly because of the weather. What new activities have you taken up since moving here? We go to Brookgreen Gardens quite often. We read more, and I take adult education classes at Coastal Carolina University. We also go to every performance at the community theatre, Stage Left. Do you find people here friendlier or more at ease? Yes, very. There are a lot of northern transplants down here. What are your favorite things to do here? We love to go to the beach and walk. We love how the community comes to us— and that there are constant bands and festivals. Is there anything that you miss or would like to see in the Market Common? We’re hoping for a new grocery store. Click here for more Q&A.

The Great Transition—Part 4 of 7

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Market Common Redevelopment

This story is part 4 of a 7-part series which chronicles the redevelopment of the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base and its evolution into the Market Common from the perspective of retired Air Force Colonel Buddy Styers, executive director of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base Redevelopment Authority. Our history continues where we left off with Part 3, in the December 2016 issue.  The Redevelopment Years of The Market Common by Melissa LaScaleia By late 2005, most of the work happening in the Market Common consisted of demolition of what Buddy had already put in the ground that was necessary to change.  Dan McCaffery and Buddy had waded through the city planning process and negotiated the necessary compromises so they could move forward with Dan’s urban village design. The major compromise between Dan and the city had to do with Howard Avenue, one of the main thoroughfares in the Market Common. It had to be changed to accommodate the Barnes & Noble that was going to be built at the end. The rest of the Market Common itself, the 360,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, was laid out to fit into and around most of what had already been installed. “Of course building something that big takes a long time,” Buddy says. Plant Construction, Dan McCaffery’s company, spent practically all of 2006 and 2007 constructing Howard Avenue and the four crossroads that intersect it, as well as the backside of the Market Common and DeVille Street. Vertical construction of the buildings began sometime in late 2006— along with supporting public infrastructure like parking lots and garages, which were built around the construction of the Market Common itself. At this time, there was a city ordinance, which mandated that single-family homes in the Market Common were not allowed— only multi-family units were. So Dan started building live-work units that had 700 square feet on the bottom floor, and an apartment for living above. At the same time that construction was happening, Dan was looking for prospective tenants— retailers, restaurants, and grocery stores— to be ready to move in. “He had a great relationship with many of those tenants from his other developments,” Buddy says. “Once the retailers knew he was behind the Market Common project, they were interested in being a part of it.” But in 2007, when the economic crash occurred and the residential market hit bottom, people stopped buying residences. “What that taught us,” Buddy says, “was that you couldn’t support the Market Common with multi-family homes, because a lot of people don’t want to live in a townhouse with 6 or 7 other people in the same dwelling. The live-work units looked like a great idea at the beginning; the people who bought them tended to have their business on the bottom and lived on the top. Some leased the apartment or retail space out. But in the end, they just weren’t marketable. Some sold successfully, but not all of them did.” The secret of the Market Common’s success lies in its residents— the people who live in and nearby and partake in the work/live/play offerings available, as they support the retailers and restaurants in the area. When people stopped buying homes, it slowed the development and growth of the Market Common, and compromised the area’s economic stability. “Because of the recession, we were able to convince the city to amend the ordinance,” Buddy says. “By 2009-2010, we were allowed to start construction of single family homes, and that has been a wonderful thing, because people bought those. It provided a population that walks or takes their golf carts to get around, and uses the services and establishments here. It was a boon for the Market Common.” Click here to read the next article in the series on “The Redevelopment Years of The Market Common.”

Colonel Nevers

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Market Common History

Pilot Extraordinaire, MBAF Base’s Longest Serving Commander by Melissa LaScaleia Colonel Joseph R. Nevers had an illustrious military career with the United States Air Force that spanned thirty-five years. He was a renowned fighter pilot in the Vietnam War and flew more than 7,700 military hours in F-86, F-100, and F-104 aircraft. In the 1950s, the F-100 Super Sabre replaced the F-86 in the Air Force lineup of planes with its superior design. The F-100 distinguished itself by being the first plane in the Air Force to exceed the speed of sound in level flight. The F-104, a further enhancement in the F series of planes, has been called a missile with wings by some pilots, due to its speed and ability to climb quickly. Nevers logged 4,885 flying hours in the F-104— a number which was exceeded by only one other pilot in the United States Air Force. Nevers flew F-104 combat missions during the Vietnam War. Later in the war, he served the United States further by acting as a Deputy Base Commander of a special operations wing operating from a base in Thailand. Nevers held other key assignments during his military career. He was the director of F-104 operations at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona; Deputy Base Commander at Homestead Air Force Base, Florida; and Commander of the 354th Combat Support Group at Myrtle Beach Air Force Base during the ’70s. In effect, he was the 354th Tactical Fighter Wing’s Base Commander for the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. He served for more than seven years, becoming our base’s longest serving commander. Jim Parker, when he was stationed at the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base in 1978, remembers meeting Colonel Nevers and what it was like to be stationed under his supervision: “He was a well-liked base commander. He had a great reputation amongst the military as well as civilian employees and the community at large. I was 18 when I met him. I remember he made an impression on me with his ability to discern a person’s character. He was one of the highest authority figures I had ever met, and he was a role model for me as a community leader and an authority figure. He was well liked, and he was a gentleman and a scholar.” Colonel Nevers served as base commander the entire time Jim was stationed here. Colonel Joseph R. Nevers medals include: the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, and five Air Medals. He currently lives in Florida. Click here to read more history. 

New Year’s Resolutions and Magical Coat of Fur

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Market Common Dogs at Charlie's Corner

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the 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. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie gives us an update on how his Christmas gift panned out, and sets his New Year’s resolutions. Happy New Year to all my fans, followers, admirers and readers, especially the little ones… you know who you are.  I really appreciated the literary contribution of Holly the Holiday Fairy last month, as well as her Christmas present to me (if you missed it, you can read all about it here). I spent my holiday season extra relaxed from all the extra snuggling, pats, and belly rubbing I received from those eager to get in on the community magic. It’s been nice shining my light to everyone knowing that I was making their day extra special and imbuing their lives with greater peace and security. Especially as most of my cuddle time came from my family. What a wonderful way to give back to them for the great care they take of me. I’m certain some community-oriented sparkles like love, creativity, generosity, and caring fell on and blessed them, and they in turn, share that and bring that to you— most notably through the Insider, but also in the way they interact with their co-workers, clients, and friends. It’s nice to have someone in your life who can remind you of your own specialness and the gift your presence is to others. And if you don’t feel that from someone in your life, then what are you waiting for? You must need a place and opportunity to share your gifts with others. Why not contribute to our beautiful community in your own unique way? And then share that with us so we can share your story with everyone and celebrate all the good in our lives and our homes. The privilege I feel at carrying friendly blessings in my fuzzy coat inspired me to turn over a new leaf in 2017 that’s more service-oriented. So I’d like to share with you my New Year’s resolutions. Make at least one person happier daily just by being me Help Jim get in better shape by asking for longer walks Cut back on treats and chicken Brainstorm more ways to build a great community in the Market Common What are your New Year’s resolutions? I’d love to know— hop on our Facebook community to share. Better yet— come to our office for morning social hour at Charlie’s Corner, and meet me and my new pal who’s the community relations manager for our team, Tom Restivo. Let’s inspire one another to stay on track this year. I know I’m going to need help getting by with less chicken. Until next time,  P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner.

A Message from Jim Parker, Co-Owner of the Insider

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A message from the Editor One of my New Year’s resolutions for 2017 is to enhance our Properties at the Market Common business plan and to advance the three branches of our business— the property management, real estate, and community paper sectors—to new levels. Since its inception, the Insider has grown to reach 32 pages in length, and we’ve received such a positive response, that we’re moving our distribution campaign into the resorts, restaurants, and attractions along the Grand Strand. Many of the people who visit Myrtle Beach aren’t aware that the Market Common exists, and we hope that our new focus will bridge that gap. Here’s what’s new with the Insider this month— we’ve separated the content into three separate sections to best highlight our content. 1) Community Happenings: includes the front page, portraying the main feature article; the center of this section outlines the events that are happening in our community. 2) Lifestyle & Dining: featuring Charlie’s Corner, the people in our neighborhood, and the Soho shops; the center of this section hosts the dining information page. 3) Real Estate: presenting the real estate listings that Properties at the Market Common are offering; the heart of this section includes the sales summary with statistical information like sales graphs, current trends, and market value analysis. Our business is about community, and community follows from growth. As we’ve grown, our past vision has now become our reality, and we’re excited to have the opportunity to share our story with you within this month’s edition. And my other New Year’s resolutions? Well, you’ll have to stop by our morning coffee hour to find out. May you have a happy and blessed New Year. Are you or someone you know doing something notable in our neighborhood? Contact us with comments and suggestions at community@marketcommoninsider.com – Jim Parker Editor-in-chief and co-owner of Properties at the Market Common

Get Festive

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Market Common Christmas

What’s Happening at The Market Common this Holiday Season by Melissa LaScaleia Friendly, family-oriented, down-home Southern is the best way I can think of to describe the atmosphere around the Market Common during the winter holiday season. The big Christmas tree is dressed to the hilt for the holidays. Sporting shiny red bulbs and flashing a big star at the top, it lights up the square in front of the Cinema 14 movie theatre on DeVille Street, beckoning visitors to it like a seasonal beacon. Park benches dot the square, and movie patrons milling about with ice creams, before or after a show, take in the ambience of glitter and sparkles while looking up at its height with the same sort of contended smile that I imagine St. Nicholas wears after delivering a particularly delightful gift. The tree shares the spotlight on this street with a red mailbox designated as the dropping-off point for children sending their Christmas-wish-lists to Santa Claus at the North Pole. Five or six brightly painted sleds, artistically depicting patterns and figures in bold colors, entice passersby around the Market Common to stop for a unique photo op. Lights wind their way up the palm trees that line the streets, making their way across lamp posts, telephone poles, and intersections like iridescent climbing vines— softly illuminating the streets below. Everything seems more touched by magic. Families and children are everywhere running, playing, and climbing on the woodwork, benches, gazebos and sleds. Everyone in general is enjoying the more mild temperatures that grace our Southerly coastline. This, along with the family-friendly, festive, and low-key vibe is why so many people turn to the Market Common to celebrate part, if not all, of their holiday season. People here are happy, laid-back and appreciative; they are open to enjoying all that the Market Common provides to make the holiday season bright and enjoyable for everyone. “Christmas is a really nice time here,” says Nancy Toia, who has lived in the Market Common with her husband Jerry since 2014. “The grounds-people in the Market Common are professional, and they decorate beautifully. They really try to bring as much to us for the holiday season as they can.” In addition to the decorations you’ll see and people you’ll meet, there are some wonderful holiday activities planned for the Market Common this December. The Holiday Bazaar happens every Saturday on Howard Avenue from 12-4pm through December 17th.  Many of the same vendors who delight us during the summer months with roasted peanuts, innovative tie-dye clothing, and fresh, from the earth produce, return for the holiday season with gifts to warm our hearts and our homes. Hundreds of fans of the holiday season turned out for this year’s tree lighting ceremony on November 19, 2016, on DeVille Street. Freshly baked bread, cakes, cookies and pies; hearty winter greens like kale and cauliflower ready for the soup pot; crisp salad varietals that dress up our tables with their exuberant vitality; handmade pottery; homemade soaps; jewelry; and potent pine tree baskets are just some of the treasures you’ll find at the bazaar. A walk here on the weekend is sure to get you in the holiday spirit. Two Saturdays in December, you can meet Santa Claus in the Market Common and have breakfast with him too. He’ll be dining at Tupelo Honey Cafe on December 10, and Gordon Biersch on December 17. Call the restaurant to make reservations and join him between 9-11am. The menu is $10 before tax and gratuity, and includes coffee, juice, and soft drinks. On Saturday, December 3, in the late morning before noon, you can watch the annual holiday parade from the nearby Highland Meadows Community progress to the Market Common. It’s become a tradition for those in this community to dress up like Santa and his elves, collect toy donations for Toys for Tots and deliver the gifts on their elaborately-decorated holiday golf carts to Gordon Biersch. This year, the group is planning to make the biggest toy delivery yet, and are busy collecting toys especially for those local families and children who were displaced by the hurricane. You can join in the fun, or join in with the donations to help them reach their goal of touching children’s and families’ lives this holiday season. The star of the holiday season is undoubtedly New Year’s Eve in the Market Common, heralded as a “Southern Times Square.” The event is so popular that people drive from out-of-state to attend.  Possibly the largest family-friendly, free-admission street party in the South, it takes place on Saturday, December 31, from 7pm-midnight in the retail district. Retailers are open until 9pm on this night.  There will be two stages with live music showcasing the musical talents of Myrtle Beach local band, PaperWork and the earthy soul and R&B tunes of Painted Man. “It’s nice how you can be totally on foot, and the kids can be free and run around and not worry about cars,” Nancy says. Some other highlights on this night include human statues; mimes; glass blowers; face painters; glitter tattoos; games, and inflatable toys for children. There is a live streaming of Times Square in NYC beginning at 9pm. Stay till midnight for the ball drop and fireworks that light up the entire sky, making this event truly spectacular. Food vendors will be available at the Beer Garden. All ages are permitted entry, but a hand stamp is required to purchase alcohol. If you’d prefer dining at one of the local restaurants, it’s recommended that you make reservations in advance. In addition to parking lots, garages and street parking, the lots at Crabtree Gym will be available for parking. For safety reasons, large bags, backpacks, and outside beverages are prohibited. Two years ago, 7,000 people came to celebrate a Southern Times Square, and last year, even with it raining, there were 5,000 people who attended. The Market Common is aglow with festivities this December, but it’s our community of participants … Read more

Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre

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Market Common Ballet

A Behind the Scenes Look: The Nutcracker by Melissa LaScaleia “When I was a young student coming from the Philippines,” Liza Mata says, “I thought that The Nutcracker was a ballet you could perform anytime of the year, like Swan Lake or The Sleeping Beauty. But coming to the United States, I learned that every other dance company here stages it for the holidays.” Liza is the founder and artistic executive director of the Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre, a non-profit 501(c)(3) in the Market Common, and owner-director of Coastal Dance Centre, also in the Market Common. “Bigger companies present more than thirty shows during the holiday season, which is a huge number,” Liza says. “If you want to exist as a company, if you do The Nutcracker and do it well, then you’re set, because it’s the most accessible and therefore the most popular ballet in America to go see, and consequently, the main moneymaker of dance companies.” The appeal of The Nutcracker is that it speaks to people of all ages— it celebrates American values and exemplifies the holiday traditions of family reunions, parties, and exchanging gifts at the holidays. There’s the fairy tale aspect, and the love story between Clara and the Prince that’s engaging and sweet. Theatrically, it’s a visual feast for the eyes, and there’s a plot that’s easy to follow, even for children. “The Nutcracker has been staged in Myrtle Beach before,” Liza says. “But we are the local ballet company, and the only ones doing it consistently for eleven years.” People come, year after year, bringing their children and grandchildren, making memories and traditions. Alexis Bull as Clara, and Ephraim Fowler as Fritz, in The Nutcracker, at Beach Church, Myrtle Beach. (Photo Sharon James) “It’s almost as if Christmas is not complete without seeing The Nutcracker,” she adds. Every year, Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre incorporates something new into the production, whether it’s new costumes or a new Clara. The Nutcracker has roles for children which makes it an ideal performance piece for a youth ballet company. Work on the production begins in August, and the company meets every Friday evening as well as all day on Saturday to prepare. Four years ago, Liza started another tradition: the casting of a local celebrity to play the role of Mother Ginger. This character is a giant, jolly and comical figure— so big and round that whoever plays her has to climb up into the costume on steps— with skirts big enough to hide groups of little children who appear from under her voluminous garment and voluptuous self during the show. “We’ve had local television personalities Ed Piotrowski and Frank Johnson; Cecil Chandler; photographer Gene Ho; the principal of Lakewood Elementary School; and Randall Wallace, a member of Myrtle Beach City Council play the part,” Liza says. “If you’re game to join the dancers and willing to be silly, the audience will love you. Kiely Clark as the Sugar Plum Fairy, and Brock Fowler as the Cavalier. Palace Theatre, Myrtle Beach. (Photo Glenn Mata) “It’s more of our way to draw in community interest. We want to ask people who are well known in the community to support us. We have a roster of celebrities for this year. For each performance, we feature a different celebrity.” This year, matinee showings will be on December 14, 15, and 16 at 10am, at Coastal Carolina’s Wheelwright Auditorium. These are special performances for elementary, middle and high school students which are part of Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre’s Outreach Program. The program gives back to the community by offering the show to younger populations at a deeply discounted price, thereby introducing them to ballet and the beauty of this art, at a young age. Coastal Dance Centre also has a teaching school in Murrells Inlet. The school has programs that cater to a variety of types of students. There is the recreational program— for those who just want to come in for classes once or twice a week; and there are programs for the more serious and dedicated students who are dancing 4-6 days per week. “I am affiliated with the Royal Academy of Dance,” Liza says. “We follow a certain teaching method that fuses Russian, Italian, and the French styles. We also offer classes for adults. “When we did The Nutcracker last year, one of the Coastal Carolina University directors said that the caliber of the performance of the kids was very impressive. He didn’t expect that with us being a youth ballet company.” Liza shares that her performing-company members’ success is due to her own cultural predilection to listen and adhere to the instructions of her teachers— values which she tries to impart to her students. Liza’s familiarity with this intense discipline and the arts runs deep: she came from a very artistic family.  “I got into dance,” she says, “because my mother was so strict she made me practice piano every day for six hours. I hated it because she made me do it. I would go through six long piano pieces and would go to sleep by midnight. My options were to either to read the encyclopedia or piano. And we had two sets of encyclopedias. “For the first hour, I would be so angry, I would just bang on the keys as a way to express myself. By the time I would calm down, I would get into my comfort zone, and then I would be in my element and would love my playing after a while. By the time I was 10, she asked me if I wanted to study ballet, and of course, I said yes because I’d do anything to get out of piano practice.”  Even as she continued to play the piano, Liza ended up loving dance, and by the time she went to university in Manilla, she sought out ballet teachers on her own. “Ballet in the Philippines is more of a recreational activity,” she says. “I’ve learned a lot about … Read more

Butternut Squash Soup

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Market Common Butternut Soup

Our recipe this month is brought to you by {bib.on Meals creator, AC Bethea. AC is a Conway native who serves up vegan and gluten-free baked goods and wholesome delectable meals along with yummy recipes for us. Her main ingredient is love. This winter month, she’s gone nuts for butternut. Butternut Squash Soup Ingredients Serves 2-4 1 large butternut squashHimalayan pink saltolive oil for drizzling1 Tbsp coconut oil1 small white onion1 (2-inch) piece of fresh ginger1 medium tomato, quartered1⁄2 cup canned organic white beans, rinsed Directions   Preheat oven to 400°F. Wash and halve the squash lengthwise, scraping out the seeds and pulp. Reserve the seeds. Cut squash into cubes and place on a rimmed baking sheet. Season with salt and drizzle with olive oil. Place the reserved seeds in a separate baking dish, and season with a pinch of salt. Roast both squash and seeds together in the oven for 25 minutes, or until the flesh is tender. Set aside. Heat the coconut oil in a soup pot over medium heat, add the onion and cook until translucent. Add the ginger, and sauté for approximately 3 minutes. When the squash is cool enough to handle, scoop the tender flesh from the squash shell, and add it to the soup pot. Saute for another 3 minutes. Add the tomato, rinsed beans and enough water to cover. Simmer on low heat until all the flavors are combined. Remove from the heat, allow to cool for 15 minutes, then transfer to your blender and blend until smooth. To serve, garnish soup with the roasted squash seeds along with any herb you like. AC Bethea, {bib.on meals creator Click here for more great recipes. 

Q&A with Angie Miller

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An Avid Eagles Sports Fan and Entrepreneur by Melissa LaScaleia Introduce me to your family. My husband and I have four children— two are mine and two his. We have three grandsons, two granddaughters, and one grandson on the way. We have three dogs: two German Schnauzers, Angel and Roxy; and an Australian cattle dog rescue, Sydney. Why did you move to the Market Common? We purchased a summer home here, but when my husband was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, we decided to stay year-round because it’s so much warmer here than where we lived, near Boone, NC. Where are all the places you came from? We lived in Virginia Beach for many years, where we had 24 different franchises of car dealerships. And then the mountains of North Carolina, near Boone. Do you have a favorite place in the Market Common? Walking around the lake. A favorite restaurant would be Toffino’s. What’s your favorite thing about living in the Market Common? I love my neighbors. I think that’s what makes the Market Common so fun. Almost everybody moves here from somewhere else, When you do, you’re open to meeting new people. And the best thing… during the hurricane we lost electricity for about 15 minutes. How has your lifestyle changed since moving here? I bicycle more and drive less. What new activities have you taken up since moving here? My husband and I just launched a new internet business called Talent Joe. It’s a platform that provides talented people in the arts the ability to create a webpage and upload their talent, so that talent agents looking for fresh faces can scout them out around the globe. Can you share one quirky fact with us about your family? My husband and I are avid Eagles fans. And we drive a total of over 1100 miles to Philadelphia to watch them play whenever they are home. What are your favorite things to do here? I love to ride my bike and walk. I love all of the things the Market Common provides for us, like art shows and concerts. I love Savannah’s Playground— I think it’s a fabulous asset. I love going to restaurants with my friends. Is there anything that you miss or would like to see in the Market Common? Yes, a local grocery store. Click here for more Q&A.

The Great Transition—Part 3 of 7

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Market Common Redevelopment

This story is part 3 of a 7-part series which chronicles the redevelopment of the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base and its evolution into the Market Common from the perspective of retired Air Force Colonel Buddy Styers, executive director of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base Redevelopment Authority. This article continues where we left off with Part 2, from the November 2016 issue.  The Redevelopment Years of The Market Common by Melissa LaScaleia By the time the parcel of land that was to become the Market Common had been sold to Dan McCaffery, the Redevelopment Authority had already installed telephone; electricity; a regional stormwater management system; roads; sidewalks; underground utilities; water; sewer; and computer lines according to a specific design. The design differed however, from Dan’s vision for the urban village. Dan recognized that in order to bring the development of the Market Common to fruition— and not have to dig up everything the Authority had put in place and put it back again in a slightly different location— he would have to amend his plan. Dan had to present his modified plan to the Community Appearance Board (a public body appointed by the city council that decides what new buildings and signage will look like), the City Planning Committee, and ultimately the city council, for approval. With the help of Buddy, Dan navigated the back and forth that such a large-scale project necessitates. “Dan and I were not only trying to get the planning done so we could get construction done,” Buddy says, “we were also working closely with the city to work our way through their administrative process, in order to put in place the additional public infrastructure to support the Market Common’s development.” But Buddy’s position, appointed as it was by the city to help the city develop this land, still did not entitle them to any expedited privileges. “We were treated no differently by the city than any other developer,” he says. “We had to go through the same process, meet all the requirements, cooperate with Santee Cooper for all the electricity, Horry Telephone for all the communications. Everything had to be in place before we started construction.” The city was cooperative, but it still took them one year. Once the city council passed an ordinance, which approved the urban village construction, they could begin in earnest. At this point, Buddy’s work with the redevelopment authority was 50% complete; after the sale of the Market Common land, there was only a small amount of property left to redevelop. In 2005, his plans approved, Dan offered Buddy the position of senior project manager for the development of the Market Common. Buddy and his chairman met with the South Carolina Ethics Commission to determine if there was a conflict of interest in his accepting. The Ethics Commission saw no conflict, so Buddy took the position to help grow the former Air Force base into something new. Their next step was to build parking garages, additional sidewalks and more underground utilities. The process to fund the additional public infrastructure was completed through a law called tax increment financing. In tax increment financing, a base tax-value is determined for the property, let’s say that is zero dollars. If, by putting in public infrastructure, the value then becomes 100,000 dollars, the taxes paid from that new valuation of the property will pay retroactively for the infrastructure that was put in place. Each time the tax value increment increases, there are more funds available to pay for more projects. There was one other process by which funds were obtained to pay for the development of the Market Common: the Municipal Improvement District Act. “We wanted to install the decorative street lamps you see around the Market Common,” he tells me, “but the city wanted to put in a standard light.” The difference in the cost was $8. The city paid for the street lamps up to the amount of their standard-issue lights, and Buddy used the Municipal Improvement District Act to pay the difference. With this law, land owners, based on the amount of land that they own, are assessed a cost on an annual basis that pays for the difference in the cost of the decorative lights. “To create the ambience that we wanted in the Market Common, we knew that we had to have something nicer than the aluminum lights the city provided,” Buddy says. Click here to read the successive article, Part 4 in the series, “The Redevelopment Years of the Market Common.” 

Colonel “Coupe” DeVille

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12.16 - Market Common History

MBAF Base Commander, Cajun At Heart by Melissa LaScaleia Our history section this month honors the late colonel Edsel “Coupe” J. DeVille, who was stationed at the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base in 1978, and passed away this fall, on October 21, 2016. DeVille Street, one of the main streets in the Market Common, is named after him, in commemoration of his life and legacy. Edsel J. DeVille was born and raised in the heart of Cajun Country, Eunice, Louisiana— home of friendly people, dancing, and good food. He attended Louisiana State University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in industrial technology. He later attended Georgia College, where he received his MBA. DeVille served our country as a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force. He signed up for two combat tours in Vietnam, and flew more than 400 combat missions. Some of his illustrious military decorations include the Legion of Merit with two oak leaf clusters; three distinguished Flying Crosses, one of which was for “Heroism in Combat;” as well as designation as a Top Gun in the A-10 Aircraft, the plane sometimes referred to as the “Warthog.” There is an A-10 fighter jetcraft at Warbird Park in the Market Common, on display to visitors. This was a park that DeVille helped to establish to remember the history of the Air Force base after it closed in 1993. Colonel DeVille logged more than 5,000 hours flying twelve different aircraft over the course of his twenty-eight years of service in the Air Force. During his tenure in the military, he was stationed at fourteen bases. He was first assigned to the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base in April 1978, as commander of the 355th Tactical Fighter Squadron flying the A-10. After other assignments, in 1987, he returned to Myrtle Beach and served as base commander. He retired from the military in November 1989, deciding to remain in Myrtle Beach with his wife, and making it his permanent home. He loved the friendships and community he and his family had found here. After the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base closed, DeVille was involved with the base redevelopment project as chairman of the initial base redevelopment committee. He was supportive of the plan to develop a downtown area, to centralize the shopping, activities, and restaurants along the 70 plus miles of the Grand Strand. John Jobson, partner at Properties at the Market Common and business partner and friend of DeVille, salutes him thus: “Coupe: a force of nature for sure! He embraced life with total enthusiasm and also knew how to work within boundaries. A rare combination of a dynamic personality and social responsibility. A man’s man and a national treasure. A Cajun at heart, a team member in life. Thanks Coupe! Your legacy is appreciated by those who were privileged to know and work with you as friends first.” To read more of our history features click here. 

A Message from Jim Parker, Co-Owner of the Insider

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A message from the Editor We’re getting into the spirit of the holidays here at the Insider office. And putting together this month’s edition has certainly made us grateful for the many opportunities around us to celebrate and enjoy the season. We’re pleased to bring attention to a local Market Common non-profit— The Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre and their production of the Nutcracker— a ballet tradition that embodies the essence of the holidays. Within we also highlight our most popular event here, a Southern Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration— a not-to-miss experience that draws crowds by the thousands. We hope you appreciate all the Market Common has to offer this December. The holiday season naturally engenders greater feelings of unity, camaraderie, and fellowship— which translates into creating strong and lasting communities. Since it’s such a natural time of year to build connection, I’d like to remind everyone of our ongoing invitation to stop by the Insider office at the corner of Phillis Boulevard and Farrow Parkway and share a cup of hot chocolate, coffee, or holiday cider with us during our morning meet and greet M-F from 8:30-10:30am. It’s been enjoyable to see everyone come in so far, and we look forward to meeting more faces. Stop by and you’ll be welcomed by Tom Restivo, the “Face of the Morning Meet and Greet” and Community Relations Manager at the Insider. I’ve known Tom for years—he’s genuine, outgoing and very approachable, and I’m pleased and proud to welcome him to our team as Charlie’s companion at Charlie’s Corner. Lastly, we’d like to bring memory to Ron Cartledge, who has been instrumental in working with us through the Post and Courier in Charleston for the past 6 months. He was very supportive and a driving force to help us get the paper to where it is today. Ron passed away unexpectedly on Friday, November 18. Prayers go out to his family and friends from us at the Insider. Are you or someone you know doing something notable in our neighborhood? Contact us with comments and suggestions at community@marketcommoninsider.com – Jim Parker Editor-in-chief and co-owner of Properties at the Market Common

The Bestowment of A Fairy Gift: A Charlie Christmas Story

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Market Common Charlie's Corner

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the 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. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together. This month, Charlie receives a gift that’s a boon for all.  Not so long ago, the Sugar Plum fairies who sprinkle magic and sometimes mischief around the holidays, took Charlie’s pen and composed this tale of him, to be discovered later by his water bowl. Charlie was so delighted with it, that he was happy to pass the baton to them for his column this month, and share it with his fans for the holidays. A Charlie Christmas Story— Starring Charlie T’was a chilly night in December, and all throughout Charlie’s Pad in the Market Common, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse…(definitely a good thing, if Charlie got wind of mice moving in, he’d probably move out). The fridge was stocked with delicious pies, cider and whipped cream to accompany all manner of desserts as well as ham, apples, roasted chicken, and little dog bone cookies in the shape of candy canes tied with red bows— a special surprise for Charlie. The stockings were hung by the mantle with care, in the hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there. Charlie was nestled in his bed, while visions of dog treats danced in his head. Happy and full from a day’s worth of chicken scraps, he snoozed a peaceful slumber, content in the knowing that he was a good doggie, and would probably soon be getting extra treats or at least a new chew toy for Christmas. Twittering noises woke Charlie from blissful doggie sleep, and making his way drowsily out to the balcony to investigate, he saw little twinkly lights shimmering against the backdrop of the night sky. As he peered and stared, they came closer and closer and closer and closer until pop! One landed and perched directly on his nose. “I’ve found you!” an excited little voice exclaimed from the tip of Charlie’s nose. “The star of the Insider at the Market Common!” “Well, I do have a few fans,” Charlie replied a bit abashed, but more than a little pleased with himself and also wondering about the zeal of his latest admirer, who had apparently flown over his balcony to greet him. ‘Am I famous?’ he wondered. “Who are you?” he inquired, taking in the sparkly form still resting on his nose. It was about three inches tall, with wings, but he knew intuitively not to try to eat it. “Holly, the Holiday Fairy,” she replied. “I’m part of the Sugar Plum family. I love goodwill and I love community, and I heard you’re helping to build that here.” “Well, yes, I do have a rather important role helping with the Morning Mix and Mingle,” replied Charlie, feeling a bit tongue-tied with this newest, miniature fan. “Well, I’m here to give you a gift to help you with your work,” said Holly, getting straight to the point. Charlie thought about dog treats and chew toys, but before he had time to ask her if he could have one of those instead, she continued: “I’m so pleased with your commitment to bring people together in fellowship, to inspire them to be more open to and involved with one another, and an active part of this beautiful place where they live, that during the holiday season, all those who pet you will receive my blessing— and be imbued with the gifts that come from strong community.” “Wow!” exclaimed Charlie, as he tried to process all she said. “What gifts are those?” “Peace, love, contentment, happiness, security, and fulfillment.” “Wow!” exclaimed Charlie again, all thoughts of a chew toy now completely wiped away. And before he could speak again, Holly leaned over and kissed his nose. Charlie thought he might sneeze. Sparkles flew everywhere and he felt electrified, but in a good way. His fluffy white coat, already considerably fluffy, expanded into even greater fluffiness just begging to be touched. And as quickly as she had landed, Holly the Holiday Fairy was gone. Charlie stood on his balcony a bit bemused, staring up at the night sky. When nothing happened and all about him was stillness, he turned back to his warm bed, and in traditional doggie fashion of being in the moment, simply fell asleep. The next morning, Charlie awoke with the memory of an odd dream. Too much chicken before bed, he considered. Then trotting over to his water bowl, and gazing down into its depths, he distinctly saw a golden sparkle fall from his nose. And there to his left, was this story. Signed, Holly the Holiday Fairy, of the Sugar Plums Until next time,  P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner.

Essential Jazz

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Market Common Music

And the Making of UNI by Melissa LaScaleia Dan O’Reilly is a musician with the jazz band UNI. He’s been living in Myrtle Beach and playing music here for over twenty years; and he has a wonderful story to tell about how he started and what he offers the Market Common crowd. “I’ve always been interested in music as far back as I can remember,” Dan says. “I had a toy saxophone before I had a real one. Music has never not been part of my life.” Saxophone is one of a few different instruments he plays, but it’s the one he plays the best. “It’s sort of like my first love,” he explains. “I always loved the sound of it. When I was in middle school, I was in my bedroom and a song came through on the radio— it was about 1978. I heard Clarence Clemons, he was the saxophone player in Bruce Springsteen’s band. That sound just grabbed me and touched something inside of me. And I knew: that’s what I need to do, that thing.” Dan began listening to as many saxophone players as he could. The more he learned about Clarence Clemons, the more musicians he found that influenced Clarence’s style. So he started listening to them. He worked his way backwards, and started listening to musicians from the ’60s, ’50s and ’40s. In his quest to find “who influenced who,” he started to find wonderful, amazing musicians. As a young adult, Dan attended college for music, where he received a primarily classical education. “I’m very fortunate that this particular band locks so well together. I think a big part of it is that we genuinely like each other.”— Dan O’Reilly (Photo Meganpixels Parker) “It was the early ’80s, and they didn’t teach jazz and rock and roll in school at that time,” he says. “There were some schools that had jazz programs, but not mine. So I didn’t explore it at that time.” Dan organically found his way into playing in a professional capacity. “A friend of mine at school played classical in the classroom and rock and roll in the clubs,” he says. “He mentioned he had a friend who had a band that needed a saxophone player, and I connected with them, and that was the beginning of it all. I started playing in bars, and I still play in bars now.” “My entire life, I’ve either made my full income or a significant portion of it from playing music,” he adds. “I just followed what I was passionate about and kept finding opportunities to do it. One door leads to another door— one band leads to another.” Lisa O’Reilly on vocals for the band at the Market Common. (Photo Meganpixels Parker) Dan grew up on Long Island, New York, and played blues and rock and roll in New York City and in the Hamptons in the early ’80s and ’90s. But after some years, he got tired of New York and the snow and cold. He moved to Myrtle Beach in September of 1994, and met several musicians right away. He joined their blues band and was having a great time playing at the House of Blues, Broadway at the Beach, and pretty much every other venue there was in town. Then the band he was in dissolved. Dan was looking for a new challenge musically, so used the opportunity of the band’s break-up to teach himself jazz music. “It was an entirely new language and vocabulary I had to learn,” he says in speaking of his experience stepping into the genre. “The thing about music, is that if you want to be able to play something well, you have to listen to a lot of it before you’re really going to be comfortable in it.” He began listening to a lot of great players and copied what he heard. Dan and Lisa strut their stuff on the streets of Market Common. “Music has never not been a part of my life.” — Dan O’Reilly (Photo Meganpixels Parker) “The best way to figure out how to do it is to listen a lot and then try,” he says. One day, Dan found a piano player and suggested they play songs together at a local restaurant. And that’s what they did. After awhile, Dan found a bass player and then, a drummer. Shortly after he married his wife, she joined their ranks as vocalist. His wife’s parents were from an earlier generation, so the music she listened to growing up was a lot of Frank Sinatra. Her natural affinity to sing that type of music was a perfect fit with the band. His group was born. Dan attributes the successful flow and cohesiveness of his band to several factors. “Musically we listen to each other, we give each other space,” Dan says. “Jazz is a very improvised music. If you hear it once, you’ll hear it differently the next time. Very spontaneous creation is happening. But I like to think we do it in a way that serves the song rather than serves the person’s ego. A lot of times, you see a musician and think, that guy’s doing it all about himself. And other times you hear someone and you think, ‘Wow, they’re really playing the song.’ I want it to be about the song, not about me.” Other aspects Dan attributes to their success are that they genuinely like each other; and they all share a common goal when playing together. “We’re not an experimental band, a band that’s pushing boundaries or anything like that,” he says. “We’re more traditional. I try to play songs with strong melodies and pretty harmonies, and a good beat you can dance to if you want, that people can connect with easily.  “We’re not in a place like New Orleans or New York, where people know a lot about jazz— so we want to make it accessible to people. For some people who … Read more

Gordon Biersch Gives Back to the Community German Style

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Market Common Charity

And Has a Good Time to Boot… by Melissa LaScaleia There are Gordon Biersch restaurants located all across the U.S. and as far away as Taiwan. Each restaurant has an extended community that all the others are a part of— and they extend that reach beyond their walls, creating a community-oriented presence in each neighborhood they inhabit. Gordon Biersch releases new beers seasonally throughout the year, all brewed in-house by the brewmaster at their on-site brewery. Each release is cause for a celebration called a tapping party; the proceeds from which benefit a designated charity. Every party is unique in its theme; and it’s up to the management team to decide who receives the proceeds, as there are countless patrons and groups who would like to be selected for the honor. Jessi Leeson-McClure, Gordon Biersch’s general manager for the Market Common location, wanted to focus on supporting smaller, and if possible, local charities for her parties. “We get together as a management group and speak about the options, and figure out what the best one is in that moment,” she says. This year, they divided donations amongst Grand Strand Miracle Leagues, Red Cross, Children’s Recovery Center, Making Strides, Military Officers Association of America, and Neighbor to Neighbor. Major tapping parties occur predictably throughout the year, when they showcase what’s on-tap for the season— but they also host various minor ones that can change year- to-year. Barristers Dynesha Davis and Ernestine Wilson, September 14, 2016 get into the spirit of things with traditional German costume at the Oktoberfest beer tapping party. That’s the case for this past October’s minor tapping party, in which the restaurant is teaming up with eight other Gordon Biersch locations along the east coast to support Making Strides, in Washington, D.C., a charity which funds breast cancer research. “This is our first time having a tapping party in October,” Jessi says. “And as soon as we heard it was an option, we all felt strongly that we wanted to do something to be a part of this cause.” Some of their regular tapping parties pay homage to ancient festivals from around the world. Oktoberfest, held in September, is a German-themed party, complete with those who dress up in traditional German outfits. Maibock is held in April, and the theme varies every year— sometimes it’s a summer theme, and sometimes a take-me-out-to-the-ball-game theme. Summerbrau, in June, is always the same— a luau and pig roast, which Jessi describes in one word— “awesome.” And in December, they host Winterbock, which has a winter white-out theme bedecking the restaurant. “When we have a tapping party, each person’s donation goes directly to the charity, we don’t take any proceeds,” Jessi says. “We donate the food and the beer for the event, and patrons get the new beer on tap and access to the buffet. People come to support a great cause and to be a part of our culture and the community.” Halfway through the party, the managers and the brewmaster all get together and stand on top of the bar to announce the new brew release, the charity being benefitted, and whatever other conviviality is most befitting the moment. In keeping with German tradition, the brewmaster takes the first drink of the season’s beer from a big glass boot, and passes it around until it’s empty. Surprisingly, no one has ever dropped the boot. “Although, it was stolen once,” Jessi says. “But amazingly, we found it without a scratch behind a bush, around the corner from here.” Good news for all. Several years ago, a group of regular patrons, who live in the Highland Meadow Community off of Farrow Parkway, decided to add their own celebration to the December mix. They took the initiative to collect toys for underprivileged children and fill the mostly empty box that Toys for Tots dropped off to the restaurant. One day, they surprised Gordon Biersch staff by descending upon them like Santa Claus and his elves, their festively decorated golf carts filled to over-brimming with toys as they paraded from their community to the Market Common. Santa’s Little Helpers from the Highland Meadow Community gather at Gordon Biersch to spread magic at the holidays. Dressed as carolers and passing out candy canes, they delivered their gifts to Gordon Biersch and filled twelve giant Toys for Tots boxes for them. Last year they increased the amount; and this year, they want to make it even bigger. Come out to the Market Common to see the parade this year on Saturday, December 3— they usually arrive in the morning before noon, bedecked in holiday attire and full of merriment. “They are a great group of people who wanted to do a great thing,” says Jessi. “It just snowballed from there.” Gordon Biersch Open Su-Th 11am-11pm, Fr & Sa 11-12am Envelope Facebook Phone Internet-explorer

Aubergine Dip with Tahini and Pomegranate

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Market Common Recipe

Our recipe this month is brought to you by {bib.on Meals creator, AC Bethea. AC is a Conway native who dishes up vegan and gluten-free baked goods and wholesome, delectable meals with love. In this recipe, the flavors of eggplant and pomegranate combine for a savory and sweet spread reminiscent of the luxuriousness of the Middle East. Aubergine Dip with Tahini and Pomegranate Ingredients Serves 2-4 1 large eggplantolive oil1/3 cup tahini paste1/4 cup water2 tsp pomegranate molasses* (store bought or make your own, see below)1 Tbsp lemon juice1 garlic clove, crushed3 Tbsp chopped parsleysalt and pepper2 Tbsp pomegranate seeds (as garnish) Directions   Preheat oven to 400° F. Cut eggplant in half and rub both sides with olive oil. Place cut side down on a rimmed baking sheet. Season with salt. Roast until golden and tender, and you can smell the aroma, approximately 30 to 40 minutes. When cool enough to handle, scoop the flesh into a colander and let it drain for 15 minutes; discard the skins. Chop the eggplant flesh roughly, and add it and the remaining ingredients, except pomegranate seeds, into a bowl. Mix well. The mixture will look chunky when complete. Taste and adjust the seasonings. The dip should have a robust yet slightly sweet flavor. Serve in a shallow bowl with toasted pita bread. Scatter pomegranate seeds on top and drizzle with olive oil. *To make Pomegranate Molasses, combine 1 cup pomegranate juice, 1/8 cup sugar, and 1 Tbsp lemon juice in a medium saucepan over high heat until sugar is dissolved. Reduce the heat to a simmer until a molasses texture is formed, approximately 15 minutes. Let cool before using. AC Bethea, {bib.on meals creator Click here for more great recipes. 

Q&A with Dorothy and Joe Taylor

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Market Common MYN (11/16)

Dorothy and Joe Taylor— Living, Working, and Playing In The Market Common by Melissa LaScaleia Introduce me to your family. It’s myself and my husband Joe Taylor. He is the executive chef at Divine Prime. I work as a sales associate at Soma Intimates, my favorite store here.  We have three fur-baby rescue dogs: Sophia, Mochachino, and Lily; Mable the cat; a new kitten named Moxie-Mae; and a turtle, Zuppa. Why did you move to the Market Common? My grandmother was transferred here in 1969, she was in the Army Air Force Exchange Service. I’ve spent every summer here until I graduated high school, then I came back permanently. I’ve always loved Myrtle Beach; I’ve always considered it home. Where do you live in the Market Common? Behind Cresswind in Oak Forest. Where are all the places you came from? I came from Fayetteville, NC, the Air Force Base area. I had lived up in the Windy Hill part of Myrtle Beach, and I wanted to come back to the south end. I’ve lived by the back (North) gate area for the past twenty years, before the Market Common was developed. Do you have a favorite place in the Market Common? I have to say Divine Prime. What’s your favorite thing about living in the Market Common? I love all the amenities, and seeing how it has evolved. We love the Soho area. How has your lifestyle changed since moving here? It’s nice to live, work, and shop and have everything pretty much at your finger tips. Can you share one quirky fact with us about your family? Joe and I have a lot of Hawaiian connections. I’ve never had biological children, but through God’s blessings, I have a grand-baby in Hawaii. She’s named after my mother. Her name is Leila Grace. What are your favorite things to do here? I really enjoy the lake, the festivities, and the Dragon Boat Races festival. My absolute favorite is the Southern Times Square on New Year’s Eve and the ball drop.  Click here for more Q&A.

General Reed

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Market Common History Feature

Vice Commander of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base by Melissa LaScaleia Reed Street is one of the streets that leads up to the parking lot outside the new Insider and Properties at the Market Common offices. In celebration of our new location, this month, we bring you the history behind the street’s name. Reed Street is named on behalf of General Robert H. Reed. Robert was born in Elkhorn City, Kentucky, in 1929. He graduated from pilot training as a second lieutenant in 1953, and the following year, was assigned as an F-89D pilot to the 18th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron in Alaska.  He attended Syracuse University, in New York state, and graduated in 1959 with a degree in international relations. In 1965, he received both a master’s degree in public administration from George Washington University, and graduated from Air Command Staff College. Robert had numerous assignments and positions throughout his military career that took him all over the world. Some of those assignments included: Indiana, South Dakota, British Columbia, New York, California and Washington, D.C., as well as Vietnam. In 1963, he was assigned as an aide-de-camp to Major General Arthur C. Agan, Jr. at Hancock Field, New York. Upon completion of Air Command and Staff College, he was stationed at Headquarters Air Defense Command, in Colorado. There he served as operations staff officer and assistant executive officer in the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff. Within his illustrious career, he completed F-4 combat crew training to prepare himself for battle in Southeast Asia. He served in the 12th Tactical Fighter Wing, Cam Ranh Bay Air Base, Vietnam, and was the operations officer for the 557th Tactical Fighter Squadron. He spent 305 combat hours in F-4s during the Vietnam War. He returned to the United States in 1969, and after further combat training, became the operations officer for the 84th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, at Hamilton Air Force Base in California. In April 1974, he was assigned to the U.S. Air Force Six Man Group. This was a special team established by the United States Chief of Staff to act as advisers and educators about all matters pertaining to the development and employment of Air Force forces.  After this one-year term ended, he was assigned to the 354th Tactical Fighter Wing, as vice commander of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. In August 1976, he became the base commander. In September 1984, Robert received a new post as Air Force assistant, vice chief of staff in Washington, D.C. He also served as the Air Force representative for the U.S. Delegation to the Military Staff Committee for the United Nations.  In 1986, he was promoted to general. He has logged 6,100 flying hours. His military decorations and awards include the Distinguished Service Medal; Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster; Distinguished Flying Cross; Meritorious Service Medal; Air Medal with 10 oak leaf clusters; and Air Force Commendation Medal. To read more of our history features click here. 

The Great Transition—Part 2 of 7

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This story is part 2 of a 7-part series which chronicles the redevelopment of the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base and its evolution into the Market Common from the perspective of retired Air Force Colonel Buddy Styers, executive director of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base Redevelopment Authority. This article continues where we left off with Part 1, from the October 2016 issue. The Redevelopment Years of The Market Common by Melissa LaScaleia As the redevelopment plan from the former Air Force base called for an urban village, Buddy was trying to find a developer who had the financial wherewithal and experience to build one. His next step was to put out a request for bids from commercial real estate companies. Once this was done, interested bidders met with the Redevelopment Authority board to make presentations.  Because the project was so large, they all felt that a local real estate company wouldn’t be a match for the task. So the board selected a large-scale commercial real estate company from Atlanta. After a year, that company didn’t bring them one single prospect, so Buddy terminated the relationship. “After that,” says Buddy, “I decided I had nothing to lose in looking at local real estate companies.” Within a couple of months, the board was considering the proposals of Gary Roberts, the broker in charge of the local chapter of Coldwell Banker, and another local real estate company. The board chose Gary Roberts, and gave him an exclusive listing to bring them a master developer with financial strength and experience in building urban villages. This was late in 2003. With this selection, the redevelopment team’s luck took a turn for the better. In less than three months, Gary did what the other company had not been able to do in a year. Gary had a friend in Wilmington who had a contact in a national development company located in Washington, D.C. They had the money to build an urban village and also had a connection with McCaffery Interests, a master developer. They were the right fit. “It still took a while to implement the plan after that,” Buddy says. “We had to work with the city to find out about zoning and construction permits.” Over the course of a year, they struck a deal to sell McCaffery Interests the 110 acres which now makes up the Market Common district, and the developer committed to building them an urban village. The company, led by Dan McCaffery, had already built one in Arlington, Virginia. “It was exactly what I and Jack Walker, the city planning director at the time, had envisioned for Myrtle Beach,” says Buddy. “In the late ’80s this was the hot buzz word— urban village— a place where people can live, work, shop and play. It was still a buzz word in the years 2002-2003 as we looked more closely at how to redevelop this piece of property.” “We were just fortunate,” he continues, “that we found Dan; and that one of his finance partners, Leucadia International, a publicly traded company, approved of the project.” Dan had many connections that opened further doors for Buddy and ensured the forward movement of the redevelopment project. He had his own architectural firm based in Chicago which could design the project. He also had a relationship with a construction company based in San Francisco called Plant Construction, who ended up being the builders. So the team was in place, and plans were underway. Click here to read Part 3 in the series, “The Redevelopment Years of the Market Common.” 

A Message from Jim Parker, Co-Owner of the Insider

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A message from the Editor With the holidays just around the corner, we’re joining in the revelry by highlighting the entertainment and events in our Market Common neighborhood for this month’s edition of the Insider. We hope you enjoy learning more about the wonderful opportunities available in our neighborhood, and gain a greater appreciation and knowledge about those who give back to the community with a spirit of celebration, camaraderie, and fun. Our front-page article highlights the story of the UNI jazz band, which plays for patrons every Friday at Travinia’s. And multiple times throughout the year, Gordon Biersch hosts parties, which not only benefit charities, but also contribute to a positive, inclusive culture and community as a whole. Let’s face it— feeling welcomed and a part of something joyful that you enjoy as well, feels good and is the very essence of community. So beginning November 1, the Insider and Properties at the Market Common will be hosting a Daily Morning Mix and Mingle event, to connect the community in a social morning setting. We are pleased to be the venue for this morning gathering, and act as a means to tie our community more closely together. Our new, expanded location, at the corner of Farrow Parkway and Phillis Boulevard, is convenient to the lake and park, so you can come on over after or before your morning exercise, and meet us and your neighbor over a cup of coffee or tea and a pastry or two. We’ll be here every day of the work week, Monday through Friday, from 8:30am- 10:30am. Are you or someone you know doing something notable in our neighborhood? Contact us with comments and suggestions at community@marketcommoninsider.com – Jim Parker Editor-in-chief and co-owner of Properties at the Market Common

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