Perception is reality - Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce

Transcription

Perception is reality–
‘Image is everything’
Issue 645 - MArch 2007
If you live in Atlanta, Ga., and are dreaming of a beach vacation, it’s the Gulf Coast
vs. the Atlantic Ocean. Destin is around 370 miles away and Myrtle Beach averages
close to 360 miles away. Heads or tails? Heads we go to Destin, tails we pack our
bags for Myrtle Beach. If it’s a 50/50 chance then how come the Gulf Coast is
winning hands down for Atlantans?
The Official Newsletter of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
Sun Fun to break
world’s tallest sandcastle
record (again!)
If you thought last year’s Sun Fun
Festival was better than ever, you’re
never going to believe what’s in store
for this year’s event. The Myrtle
Beach area’s most famous festival
is outshining itself with another
full summer of events, including
new musical acts, a world’s tallest
sandcastle attempt, national
watercraft racing and the
Sun Fun Car giveaway.
Plus, some of the
festival’s main
events,
like the
Beach Music Day and the Sun Fun
Summer Concert Series, will be
following tradition by staying in
the downtown Myrtle Beach area.
The kickoff to this year’s Sun Fun
Festival® presented by Hawaiian
Tropic will take place May 31June 4 and feature a concert by
38 Special, the Miss Sun Fun
USA and Miss Sun Fun Teen USA
pageants, the American Power
Boat Association
Watercross
National Tour
Surf &
Turf Jet Ski
u See
Sun Fun,
Page 18
According to two focus groups of 24
people from Atlanta, the car heads south
instead of toward Myrtle Beach because
the Grand
Strand is (1)
overcrowded
and has traffic
issues, (2) the
Gulf Coast has
nicer beaches,
and (3) there
is a lack of
familiarity with
the Myrtle
Beach area.
Atlanta, Bernstein jumped on the chance
to do some research into the vacation
patterns of Atlanta residents.
“Our objective
was to understand
the decision
making process
related to family
vacations (families
with children)
and weekend
getaways (couples
alone),” Bernstein
explained. “We
wanted to identify
With Georgia
which vacation
ranking No. 7
destinations appeal
in the chamber’s
the most to the
top 10 states of
Atlanta market and
inquiry, Wendy
why these places
Bernstein,
are appealing. And
MBACC
marketing research manager also determine how
marketing
the Atlanta market
research
views Myrtle Beach
manager, was curious what was stopping and, more importantly, how we can
this vacation-hungry, money spending
make it more appealing.”
group from heading east. Working with
Plexus Marketing Group based out of
u See Atlanta Survey, Page 18
Our objective was
to understand the
decision making
process related to
family vacations
(families with children)
and weekend getaways
(couples alone).
- Wendy Bernstein
Immediate Past Chairman
W. Wayne Gray
Spring House Restaurant Group Inc.
2007-2008 Chairman of the Board
Marketing & Advertising Committee Chair
Steve Chapman
Island Vista
Membership Committee Chair
Leigh Ammons Meese
Sea Mist Resort
Growth and Development Committee Chair
Brant Branham
EF Hucks and Associates
Technology-Based Marketing Committee Chair
Roddy Swaim
Dunes Beach and Golf Vacations
Directors
Membership Committee Vice Chair
Elaine Carter
Wendy’s/Palmetto Restaurant Group
Growth and Development Vice Chair
Tony Cox
Burroughs and Chapin Co. Inc.
Publications Vice Chair/Marketing Committee
David DuRant
Prestwick Country Club
North Strand Council Chair
Rick Elliott
Elliott Realty
Business Ethics and Standards Committee
David Gooden
A-1 Wireless
South Strand Council Chair
Cindy Gordon
Atlanta Bread Co.
Publications Chair/Marketing Committee
Brent Groome
HTC Communications
Small Business Council Chair
Steve Kahn
Full Steam Ahead Inc.
Legislative Policy Council Vice Chair
Adam Parness
ShredRight Corp.
Convention Bureau Committee Chair/
Marketing Committee
Joe Perl
Colonial Mall–Myrtle Beach
Finance Committee Vice Chair
Scott Plyler
Carolina First
Business Ethics and Standards
Myers Rollins
Waccamaw Regional Transportation Authority
Technology-Based Marketing Committee Vice Chair
Chris Shroff
Shroff Properties
Legislative Policy Council Vice Chair
Brent Schulz
DDC Engineers Inc.
Growth and Development Vice Chair
Richard Singleton
Coldwell Banker Chicora Commercial Real Estate
Small Business Council Vice Chair
Berkley White
Classic Homes
2
b
Ambassadors are a group of dedicated
volunteers from various businesses throughout
the Grand Strand community. Their mission is
to welcome and nurture current members and
recruit new chamber members. Ambassadors
serve as goodwill representatives at various
chamber functions and aid in the support
of members.
Why become a chamber Ambassador?
Ambassadors gain business exposure
by being the first to meet chamber
members and put their company’s name
in the forefront. By volunteering at
chamber events and attending the monthly
Ambassador meetings, your business is
always involved and kept current on what is
going on within the chamber and community.
a t u l at
Ambassadors earn points by calling and visiting
other chamber members, attending monthly
meetings, recruiting other Ambassadors,
having a suggested business become a chamber
member, and participating in chamber
projects. At the end of each month, these
points are tallied and an Ambassador of the
Month is named.
who earned Ambassador
of the Month for
January. Perez is serving
her second year as an
Ambassador.
A
To learn more about becoming
a chamber Ambassador, contact
Pat Creed, membership programs
manager, at (843) 916-7225 or
creedp@mbchamber.org.
to Celeste
i Congratulations
Perez with PartyLite Gifts
s
Legislative Policy Council Chair
Frans Mustert
Patricia Grand Resort Hotel
gr
on
Finance Committee Chair/Treasurer
Jim Creel Jr.
The Creel Corp.
spot light
n
Officers
Chairman of the Board
David Brittain
Sea Captain’s House
Co
Board of Directors
pp
l a u sApplause to Fidencia Pla with
e Keller Williams Realty who
earned the second highest
Ambassador points
total for January. Pla is
serving her first year as
an Ambassador.
member services guide
member services guide
Member Resources
Business Connections
Benefit of the Month
• Educational Seminars
Do you want to continue to grow as an
individual, an employee, a manager or a
business owner? If the answer is yes, start
taking advantage of the chamber’s monthly
educational seminars. These classes offer an
excellent opportunity for personal and career
development, plus the workshops provide
invaluable networking time. Not only will you
gain new knowledge, but you’ll connect with
other chamber members who have similar
interests.
Marketing Strategies
Education Programs
Check out the following seminars at
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on
Education.
• Celebrate Hospitality–Sponsored by Costco
Wholesale, Horry-Georgetown Technical
College, Stages Video Productions
• Leadership Seminar Series
• LGS Alumni Leadership Education Series–
Sponsored by Leadership Grand Strand
• Lodging Series
• Marketing and Public Relations Series
• Personal Development Series
• Restaurant Series
Government Relations
•Small Business Forum–Sponsored by
Herald Hosting
• Technology Workshop–Sponsored by
Myrtle Beach Area Business Journal
• Women’s Business Forum–Sponsored by
Myrtle Beach Herald
Hospitality seminars are co-sponsored by
MBACC, Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality
Association and Hospitality Association of
South Carolina. Questions? Contact Michele
Winstead, education and training manager, at
winsteadm@mbchamber.org or
(843) 916-7232.
MISSION To promote, protect and improve businesses throughout the Grand Strand.
Celebrate! Celebrate! Promote your business
in Group Planner Guide
Celebration Expo
Come join in the fun during the Celebration Expo featuring the Can-Am
Welcome Reception and 14th Annual Business & Restaurant Expo. Mark
your calendars for March 15 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-8 p.m., Myrtle Beach
Convention Center, Exhibition Halls B & C. The event is free and open to the
public. The first 500 through the doors at 10 a.m. will receive a free CanadianAmerican flag pin. The Celebration Expo, part the of the 46th Annual
Canadian-American Days, will feature door prizes, complimentary Wendy’s
coffee, music and entertainment, including a special performance from
‘No Strings Attached’ Big Band from Burlington, Ontario. During the evening,
restaurants will dish up mouthwatering samples of their famous dishes. MBACC
members will be able to enjoy the food free of charge as part of Business After
Hours (registration information on Page 14). The public will purchase tickets
for the food sampling.
Also during the Celebration Expo, the Myrtle Beach area will be welcoming
the Canadian Ambassador to the United States, Michael Wilson, the U.S.
Ambassador to Canada, David Wilkins, members of Congress, the CanadianAmerican Economic Alliance, and the Congressional Friends of Canada.
Sponsored by Sam’s Club, Pepsi, Miller Lite and Bank of America.
Learn More: CanAmDays.com
At a Glance
Event
Date/Time
Location
Celebration Expo featuring the Can-Am
Welcome Reception and 14th Annual
Business & Restaurant Expo
March 15, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-8 p.m.
Myrtle Beach Convention Center
Exhibition Halls B & C
The 2007-2008 Group Planner
Guide is now on sale through the
Myrtle Beach Area Convention
& Visitors Bureau. The Group
Planner Guide is produced every
two years with 5,000 copies
printed. This publication is used
as the primary fulfillment for:
tour operators, reunion planners,
social planners, education planners
and religious planners who are
considering bringing a group into the
Myrtle Beach area. Travel agents and
wholesalers who work with groups also
will be provided a copy.
All advertisers must be members in
good standing of the Myrtle Beach Area
Chamber of Commerce at the time of
their space reservation.
Ads
There’s limited space available for ad
placements. The price is $1,700 for a full
page–8½ x 11 or $1,000 for a half page–
5½ x 8½.
Grid Placements
$400–Nonaccommodations, which includes
a four-color logo, grid information and
description of your business.
$500–Accommodations, which includes a
four-color exterior shot of your hotel and
grid information with a description of the
hotel.
Web Site Link
Cost for the group Web link is $250, which
links your site from MyrtleBeachGroups.com.
Visit MBPlanner.StrandMagazine.com to
view the grid information and submit your
order.
If you have any questions, please call
Fred Hunter, group sales manager with
Myrtle Beach Area Convention & Visitors
Bureau, at (843) 916-7248.
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com
c
Celebrity Luau
The festivals and special events division
is busy planning a Celebrity Luau for
the 2007 Sun Fun Festival®. Last year’s
event was a huge success bringing in just
under $3,000 for the Friendship House
Preschool. This year’s Celebrity Luau
will again include a silent auction where
all proceeds will go to a local charity.
The big question is “Which charity
will receive the proceeds?”
Charities interested in receiving this
donation should send a written request
providing information about the charity
and why you are deserving of the
donation to Festivals and Special Events
Division, P.O. Box 2115, Myrtle Beach,
SC 29578.
Since this is a “Celebrity” Luau, the
division also is searching for celebritytype items to auction off that will yield
a large profit for the charity. Some of
last year’s auctioned items were a guitar
signed by Hootie and the Blowfish, VIP
concert tickets, and autographed sports
memorabilia. Other auctioned items
have included things that make you feel
like you’re a celebrity, such as vacation
packages, golf packages and spa visits.
Keep in mind that if your business
donates an item, it is tax deductible and
your company will receive invaluable
recognition and exposure during the
event.
If you’re interested in donating toward a
worthy cause, contact Kimberly Miles,
festivals and special events manager,
at kemiles@mbchamber.org or
(843) 916-7221.
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Visit the Member-to-Member
Discounts Web page for great
offers from your fellow
chamber members:
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com,
click on Member-to-Member
Discounts.
d
Calling all Sandcastle designers
Do your children spend sunny days building
sandcastles down at the beach? Do they have
ambitious imaginations like famous castle designers
King Ludwig II or James of St. George. Make their
dreams of building 40-foot high sandcastles come
true … enter their grand sandcastle designs into
the chamber’s World’s Tallest Sandcastle Design
Contest.
Students in grades K-12 can win
prizes totaling more than $500
with a matching $500
donation to the student’s
school art program
by entering the
World’s Tallest
Sandcastle
Design Contest.
The contest is part of the 56th Annual Sun Fun
Festival–A Celebration of Summer, sponsored by
the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.
All entries must be either hand-delivered to the
chamber at 1200 N. Oak St. or mailed to
P.O. Box 2115, Myrtle Beach, SC 29578,
postmarked no later than April 15, 2007.
Contact Kimberly Miles,
MBACC festivals
and special events
manager, at
(843) 916-7221
or go online to
SunFunFestival.com
for rules and entry
forms.
Serving as the voice of small business
There’s a good chance that if you’re reading this
column, you work for a small business here in the
Myrtle Beach area. With the majority of our chamber
membership falling into the small business category
(10 or fewer employees), this group represents a
powerful voice in the economic future of the Grand
Strand. Supporting small businesses through a
network of programs that help the small business
owner make money, save money and grow their
business is a priority for your chamber of commerce.
Small Business Council–The Small Business Council
serves as the voice of small business and acts as an
advocate and resource for small business members.
They are the driving force behind the development
of new programs and modifications of old ones to
meet the needs of small businesses. Your chamber
is committed to helping small businesses along the
Grand Strand survive and flourish, and the Small
Business Council keeps us focused on that mission.
Education Classes–Education is essential to
a thriving economy and a rich quality of life.
Recognizing the importance of continuing education,
your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has
moved to the front of the class in offering a variety of
educational opportunities. Working with the Myrtle
Beach Area Hospitality Association, Hospitality
Association of South Carolina, Horry-Georgetown
Technical College, Coastal Carolina University,
various nonprofit organizations and community
businesses and trainers, we have assembled a series of
monthly workshops that focus on specific training
needs and industry specific topics. The Small Business
Forum, sponsored by Herald Hosting, provides small
business owners the opportunity to improve their
skills in a variety of subject areas and interact with
peers experiencing similar business issues. This is
just one of more than 20 plus training opportunities
offered each year ranging from technology classes to
leadership workshops to marketing tips.
Networking Events–Regardless of where and when
you work, the chamber has a networking program to
fit your schedule. If you’re looking for a casual social
event, a busy trade show or a fast moving gathering
to build your business contacts, we offer some of
the finest networking events in the Myrtle Beach
area. These monthly programs provide excellent
ways to increase your visibility within the chamber
membership.
Sponsorships–As a small business owner, sponsoring
a chamber event gives you a unique opportunity to
extend your company’s presence in the community.
Event sponsorship provides your company exceptional
visibility and enhances your reputation in the
community. Chamber events are highly publicized
… and so are the sponsors. You not only increase
your visibility among fellow business members but
also throughout the entire region. You’ll establish
relationships that will prove to be a solid marketing
investment for you and your organization.
Cooperative Advertising–Advertising in a highprofile national publication is a great way to announce
your business to the world. However, it’s not exactly
cheap. That’s where your chamber membership steps
in. Your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
co-op advertising program makes it possible for even
a small business to purchase an ad in most national
publications. We give you a variety of affordable and
convenient ways to promote your business. You are
able to efficiently combine your resources with other
local members to promote your product and service.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce and South Carolina
Chamber of Commerce–As a small business, you
receive complimentary membership in the U.S.
Chamber of Commerce and S.C. Chamber of
Commerce. In addition to standard chamber benefits,
the U.S. Chamber of Commerce offers small business
resources through the Small Business Center, weekly
electronic newsletters with important news, legislative
updates and commentary, and discounts on a variety
of services including shipping and office supplies. The
S.C. Chamber of Commerce offers our small business
members free electronic access to their statewide
grassroots lobbying and information networks,
along with an e-mail subscription to South Carolina
Business, the chamber’s monthly magazine.
BlueCross BlueShield Health Insurance–We’ve
teamed up with BlueCross BlueShield of South
Carolina to bring small business members affordable
group health care insurance. The True Blue
Partnership offers small businesses competitive rates
and dependable coverage. It’s an innovative health
insurance program that rewards your employees with
dependable and consistent benefits.
Expos–Exhibiting at an expo gives your company
exceptional visibility and enhances your reputation
in the community. By participating, small businesses
have the opportunity to increase brand awareness and
sales; seek referral business; increase Web site visits;
launch a new product or service; collect prospects’
names and addresses to build a marketing database;
and create excitement about your business. It’s a low
cost way to promote your business.
Government Relations–Your chamber serves as a
liaison between our members and elected officials to
ensure that the voices of all businesses, both small and
large, are presented to the local, state and national
government. We are committed to helping influence
legislation and public policy in a way that benefits
our community and businesses. The interests of the
small business community is closely monitored by our
Legislative Policy Council and reflected in our yearly
legislative agenda
Small Business Awards–Each year your chamber is
proud to offer business excellence awards recognizing
successful growth, leadership and innovation. Our
Small Business of the Year award specifically honors a
small business that represents the spirit of community
excellence and has set a high standard for all other
businesses in the area. Along with these annual
business awards, we have started a new tradition
of recognizing outstanding customer service. Our
Impeccable Customer Experience (I.C.E.) awards
applaud businesses and individuals who have raised
the bar of hospitality. Awards are terrific pubic
relations triggers and often lead to media coverage.
They act as validation for your company’s success and
can be highly motivating to your employees. Awards
can be great sales aids, because prospective customers
take them as confirmation that you are doing things
right.
No matter how you look at it, small businesses
are a vital part of our local, state and national
economy. Your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of
Commerce is committed to helping small businesses
along the Grand Strand survive and flourish. For
more information on how you can take advantage
of any of these small business programs, visit
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
Brad Dean
President & CEO
e
Chamber Academy
Hospitality seminars are co-sponsored by MBACC, Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association and Hospitality Association of South Carolina. All classes are held in the
boardroom (unless otherwise noted) at the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, 1200 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach. To register, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click
on Education/Chamber Academy. Payment due at time of registration. No refunds or rescheduling. Questions? Contact Michele Winstead, education and training manager,
winsteadm@mbchamber.org or (843) 916-7232.
Series
Topic
Presented by
Description
Cost
March 7
9 a.m.-12 p.m.
World Class Series
“Communicating
to Influence”
Chuck Ewart,
international speaker
and motivational
entertainer
Public speaking is a great way to separate yourself from the pack, because when you
stand up and say what you want to say, the way you want to say it, you are doing what
95 percent of the people in the audience wish they could do. Discover ways to enhance
your speaking skills and gain new confidence.
$49 members;
$89 future
members
3/6
March 13
9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Technology
Workshop
“Microsoft Office
Outlook Training”
Horry-Georgetown
Technical College
Learn how to create calendars, share mass e-mails, set tasks and create contact lists.
Location: Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s Conference Center on the former
Air Force Base.
$15 members;
$40 future
members
3/12
March 16
7:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.
International Tourism “How to Globally Market
Seminar
South Carolina”
Learn how to market more effectively to the world. Location: Marina Inn at Grande Dunes,
Speakers include: U.S.
Ambassador to Canada, 8121 Amalfi Place, Myrtle Beach. Sponsored by Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce,
David Wilkins; Vice
S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism, and Coastal South Carolina USA.
President of International
Planning, Bruce
Bommarito; Manager
of Allied T-Pro Orlando,
Gisa Kusserow-Hanson,
plus others
$45 members
(includes
breakfast)
3/13
March 20
9-11 a.m.
Women’s Business
Forum
“Search Engines
Unveiled”
Mona McGraw, NuRelm
Uncover common myths about the major search engines. Attendees will learn how to
successfully submit their Web sites and significantly impact their online rankings. Discover
the various methods major search engines use to rank their Web sites. Mona McGraw with
NuRelm also will provide each attendee advice and assistance in putting together their
online marketing strategy.
$15 members;
$40 future
members
3/19
March 27
10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.
Leadership Series
“Leadership Training”
Maribeth Achterberg,
Verity Management
Solutions
A leader combines the vision and the curiosity of a dreamer with the practical engineering
of a builder. While many books have been written about leadership, it remains for many a
misunderstood and elusive quality. This leadership development process is a structured,
open-ended pragmatic approach to leadership growth. It is designed to help individuals
develop the attitudes, skills and qualities necessary for personal and organizational
leadership.
$10 members;
$40 future
members
3/26
March 29
9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Technology
Workshop
“QuickBooks Review”
Horry-Georgetown
Technical College
This class will review client setup, accounts receivable, payable and invoices. Location:
Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s Conference Center on the former Air Force Base.
$20 members;
$40 future
members
3/28
Small Business Forum
Sponsored by ...
Restaurant & Lodging Series
Sponsored by ...
f
Register
by
Date/Time
sPONSORS
LGS Alumni Leadership Education Series
Sponsored by ...
Technology Workshop
Sponsored by ...
Women’s Business Forum
Sponsored by ...
Register
by
4/2
Date/Time
Series
Topic
Presented by
Description
Cost
April 3
9-10:30 a.m.
Small Business
Forum
“Hiring, Firing and Staff
Discipline”
Paul Hilton,
Paul Hilton HR
Consulting, LLC
This workshop will cover all key aspects of the employment relationship from hiring to
discipline and discharge. The goal of the program is to provide proactive strategies to
discourage employee lawsuits based on smart business practices and policies.
$10 members;
$40 future
members
April 10
9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Technology
Workshop
“Publisher Training”
Horry-Georgetown
Technical College
This class will review the basics of Microsoft Publisher. Plus learn how to create a
professional brochure and newsletter. Location: Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s
Conference Center on the former Air Force Base
$20 members;
$40 future
members
4/9
April 17
9-11 a.m.
Women’s Business
Forum
“Google AdWords
Demystified”
Mona McGraw, NuRelm
An in-depth tutorial on Google AdWords that will help you capitalize on this amazingly
affordable and highly effective online advertising tool. Learn how to gain rapid online
market share before your competitors do.
$15 members;
$40 future
members
4/16
April 18
8:30-11:45 a.m.
Celebrate Hospitality
Diane DeVaughn
Stokes, Stages Video
Productions, and Shirley
Long Johnson, HorryGeorgetown Technical
College
Learn about effective communication, phone etiquette, coping with frustrated
customers, and how the chamber can work for you. Sponsored by Costco Wholesale,
Horry-Georgetown Technical College and Stages Video Productions.
$20 members;
$40 future
members
(includes
breakfast)
4/17
April 19
12-5 p.m.
LGS Alumni
Leadership
Education Series
“Courage to Lead”
Sally Hare, Distinguished
Professor Emerita
at Coastal Carolina
University and President
of still learning, inc.
Leadership Grand Strand is pleased to invite you to a retreat-based approach to renewing
personal identity and professional integrity. Join us for an afternoon of conversation and
reflection about trust and the leadership it requires as an essential ingredient for positive
change in organizations.
$39 LGS Alumni
Association
members;
$49 chamber
members;
$59 future
members
(includes lunch)
4/18
April 24
9-11:30 a.m.
Leadership Series
“Strategic Planning”
Maribeth Achterberg,
Verity Management
Solutions
This interactive seminar provides a format for developing specific strategies, converting
those strategies into a business planning process, and establishing measurable and
attainable organizational goals. It is a process that involves not only determining where
your company wants and needs to go, but also, how it is going to get there.
$10 members;
$40 future
members
4/23
April 30
1:30-4 p.m.
Small Business
Forum
“Coaching and
Motivating for
Team Success”
Carl Elliott, CE Elliot and
Associates, LLC
Success only comes when we make the most of the skills and talents of team members.
In this seminar, participants will learn the coaching and motivating skills needed to make
this happen.
$20 members;
$40 future
members
4/27
Register for classes today online at
click on Education/Chamber Academy
g
Hospitality Partnership
At a Glance
Event
Date/Time
Location
Booth
Rate
Hospitality Association’s 2007 Job Expo
Reach more than 5,000 prospective employees at South Carolina’s largest job expo–
Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association’s 2007 Job Expo. This year’s Job Expo will
be held March 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center,
Exhibit Hall A. Booth rates are $275 for MBAHA or Hospitality Partnership members
and $350 for nonmembers.
Nonprofits: This is your expo too
Nonprofits also are invited to set up booths at the MBAHA’s 2007 Job Expo and
recruit volunteers for their organization. Booths cost $125 for MBAHA or chamber
members and $150 for nonmembers. Save even more money by sharing a booth
with another nonprofit organization. This is a unique way to reach the people your
organization helps and the people who can help you.
Whether you are looking to recruit employees or enlist volunteers, simply call
(843) 626-9668 to sign up for a booth. Registration deadline is March 16.
Brought to you by the Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association in cooperation
with the ESC Coastal Workforce Center, Waccamaw Council of Governments
and Hospitality Partnership. Partners: Horry County DSS, Coastal Carolina
University, Horry-Georgetown Technical College, The Coast RTA, Pee Dee Regional
Transportation Authority, Costco Wholesale, Convention Makers, DocuSystems,
Myrtle Beach Communications, The Sun News, NextMedia and WBTW-News 13.
A-Tax Forum
Join the Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association and Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of
Commerce for a discussion on A-Tax. Our goal is to help members better understand
the issues surrounding this tax and how it is distributed. Mark you calendars for
April 11 starting at 9 a.m. (includes continental breakfast) at the Avista Resort,
h
2007 Job Expo
March 21, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Exhibit Hall A
Register
$275 Hospitality Partnership
members; $350 nonmembers
Nonprofits: $125 MBAHA or
chamber members;
$150 nonmembers
(843) 626-9668
Deadline
March 16
300 N. Ocean Blvd., North Myrtle Beach. The forum is free, however, reservations
are required. Please register at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Business
Connections. Registration deadline is April 9. Questions? Call (843) 916-7318.
Hospitality Day at the Statehouse
On Wednesday, May 16, South Carolina’s hospitality industry will host “A Taste of
South Carolina,” featuring restaurants from across the state serving a sample of their
menu specialties. The event, held from 12-2 p.m. on the Statehouse grounds, is one of
the legislators’ highest rated gatherings on their busy social calendars.
“A Taste of South Carolina” is a great way to showcase your restaurant, and at the same
time, show legislators that the hospitality industry is concerned about legislation they
are considering this year. If you would like more information about participating as
a restaurant or sponsoring Hospitality Day, call the Hospitality Association of South
Carolina at (800) 803-4272 or visit schospitality.org.
Hop on the bus
Everyone involved in the hospitality industry is invited to attend Hospitality Day at the
Statehouse. Buses leave Broadway at the Beach (bus parking area) at 8 a.m. and return
at 5:30 p.m.
Ready to hop onboard? Call the Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association at
(843) 626-9668 for reservations.
Hospitality Day at the Statehouse is hosted by the Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality
Association, Hospitality Association of South Carolina and other local hotel and/or
restaurant associations in the state.
March Convention Bureau
Travel Itinerary for Trade Shows
March 1
March 10-14 Destinations Washington Travel South Marketplace Washington, D.C.
Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Groups Scheduled for Service Four groups representing 850 attendees.
Travel Itinerary for Consumer Shows
March 2-4
Home Show
Richmond, Va.
March 3-4
Adventure in Travel
Washington, D.C.
March 8-11
Montreal RV Show
Montreal, Canada
March 9-11
Southern Women’s Show
Memphis, Tenn.
March 10-11
The National Women’s Show
Ottawa, Canada
March 17-18
Akron Women’s Expo
Akron, Ohio
March 25
AAA Vacation Show 2007
Camp Hill, Pa.
March 29-April 1
Central Kentucky Home & Garden Show
Lexington, Ky.
March 30-April 1
Annual Westchester County Home Show
White Plains, N.Y.
January
Relocation
Inquiries
Top 5 States
1. New York
2. North Carolina
3. Pennsylvania
4. New Jersey
5. South Carolina
Chamber members
celebrate anniversaries
During March, 106 members will be
celebrating their chamber anniversaries.
Discover which business has been a chamber
member for 27 years. Check out the Grand
Strander online at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com
and click on Grand Strander at the top of the
page.
Ribbon
–
Cutting
Ceremonies
A grand opening, an expansion, an anniversary or a move to a new
facility is made more special with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. If
you’re a home-based business, give us a call and we’ll hold a special
ceremony here at the chamber just for you!
There are many benefits to having a ribbon-cutting ceremony for
your business. Ribbon-cutting announcements are included in the
Grand Strander, which is mailed to our 2,300 plus members, and
photos appear in the online edition of the popular newsletter. The
chamber’s Ambassadors attend ribbon-cutting ceremonies on behalf
of the members. Having Ambassadors at the ceremony provides an
excellent networking and publicity opportunity.
Your chamber is happy to help plan a ribbon-cutting ceremony
for your business. It’s a value-added benefit included in your
membership investment. Kickoff a grand opening of your business
by contacting Pat Creed, membership programs manager, at
creedp@mbchamber.org or (843) 916-7225.
The chamber recently held ribbon-cutting ceremonies for the
following members:
Local Beach Trader
161 Powder Springs Loop
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
(843) 457-5416
localbeachtrader.com
Waccamaw Community
Foundation
3655 S. Hwy. 17 Business
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
(843) 916-4483
waccamawcf.org
WineStyles
2010 Oakheart Rd.
(843) 333-0700
winestyles.net/
carolinaforest
World Market
1144 Seaboard St.
(925) 518-9209
WorldMarket.com
See photos of the ceremonies by visiting the Grand Strander online
at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click on Grand Strander at
the top of the page.
i
Be prepared for hurricane season
At a Glance
Event
Date/Time
Location
Cost
Register
Hurricane Preparedness Conference & Expo
April 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
8-9 a.m. Registration and Complimentary Continental Breakfast
Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel
2101 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach
General sessions and breakout sessions are free. Luncheon
program is $15 per person. Registration for all sessions is required.
To register for sessions and/or the luncheon program, go to
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Business Connections.
Questions? (843) 916-7319
With less than three months until
the public. Registration is required.
the start of the 2007 hurricane
Attendees will have the opportunity
season, Horry County Emergency
to gather vital hurricane information
Management is busy preparing
through informational sessions
for another active year. According
conducted by hurricane experts.
to Randy Webster, director of the
A panel of professionals will be
emergency management department,
available to answer questions about
everyone in coastal areas, and even
how to prepare homes and businesses
homeowners and businesses living
during the threat of a hurricane and
away from the coast, need to prepare
how to recover if a disaster occurs.
now for the upcoming hurricane
The conference also will include a
season.
luncheon program from 12 until
1:30 p.m. featuring presentations
“A lack of hurricane awareness and
from local meteorologists,
preparation are common threads
Don Luehrs and Ed Piotrowski.
among all major hurricane disasters,”
The cost for the lunch session is
Webster noted. “By knowing what
$15 per person.
actions you should take to prepare
your home and business, you can
Check out all the day’s events at
reduce the effects of a hurricane
disaster.”
click on Business Connections.
The Hurricane Preparedness
Hosted by the Myrtle Beach Area
Conference & Expo on April 13
Chamber of Commerce, Myrtle
brings you face-to-face with Myrtle
Beach Area Hospitality Association,
Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
Hospitality Association of South
businesses anxious to help you
Carolina and Horry County
prepare for hurricanes. The 9 a.m.
Emergency Management.
to 4 p.m. expo is free and open to
j
Hurricane Preparedness Conference & Expo exhibitors
Complimenting the top-notch educational sessions scheduled for the 2007 Hurricane Preparedness Conference
& Expo, attendees will have the opportunity to meet with many of the industry’s most valuable product and
service vendors. Don’t miss your chance to help residents of the Grand Strand prepare for the upcoming hurricane
season.
As an exhibitor, your company will receive:
► Company’s name/logo displayed on collateral materials
► Two free tickets to conference and reserved seating during the luncheon
► Cost: $500
► Booth Registration: (843) 916-7220
Hurricane Preparedness Conference & Expo sponsorships
The upcoming Hurricane Preparedness Conference &
Expo is a highly publicized event that will gain your
company incredible exposure. Your company’s name
is included on all collateral materials to help you lock
in valuable public recognition. Several promotional
pieces are produced prior to the event, so the earlier
you secure your sponsorship, the more opportunity
you have for the added exposure.
Event: Hurricane Preparedness Conference & Expo
Event Description: Conference and expo highlighting
vital information to help you prepare for the hurricane
season
Date/Time/Location: April 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.,
Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel
Attendance: 300 plus, members and public invited
Contact: Pam Wright, business sales manager,
(843) 916-7220, wrightp@mbchamber.org.
Sponsorship level:
Presenting Sponsor
Sponsorship level:
Diamond Sponsor
Sponsorship cost:
$10,000
Sponsorship cost:
$3,500
No. of sponsorships
at this level:
One
No. of sponsorships
at this level:
Unlimited
Sponsorship Benefits:
Sponsorship Benefits:
• Ten tickets to the Hurricane Preparedness Conference
& Expo and seating at a reserved table during the
luncheon.
• Five tickets to the Hurricane Preparedness Conference
& Expo and seating at a reserved table during the
luncheon.
• Recognition in the scripting during the luncheon
presentation and opportunity to address audience.
• Logo/recognition on all promotional materials,
including invitations, Grand Strander articles,
registration forms, MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com on
the Hurricane Preparedness Conference & Expo page,
video presentation and table signage at the luncheon.
• Logo/recognition on all promotional materials,
including invitations, Grand Strander articles,
registration forms, MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com on
the Hurricane Preparedness Conference & Expo page,
video presentation and table signage at the luncheon.
• Display table at the Hurricane Preparedness
Conference & Expo.
• Display table at the Hurricane Preparedness
Conference & Expo.
• Chamber membership list on disk or an Excel
spreadsheet of all Myrtle Beach Area Chamber
members.
• Four tickets to the chamber’s Annual Meeting
on Oct. 25, 2007.
k
Chamber welcomes
new employee
Be a
As the chamber’s new personnel
coordinator, Shirley Landry oversees
human resources, benefits and payroll.
Landry previously worked as a human
resources assistant in a legal firm in Greensboro,
N.C. Having had a vacation home in Little River
for five years, Landry, along with husband John, decided
to move down to the area and call South Carolina home.
Landry received a bachelor’s in physical education from Greensboro
College and a master’s in education from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
The Landry’s have a married son, John Jr. and a 3-month-old grandson, Coy.
Members Only section offers enhanced services
Your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
continues to offer members enhanced, innovative
services, such as the Members Only Web page.
Simply by entering a username and password,
members can:
• Register for Chamber Events–Quickly register
for chamber events and educational classes. Your
contact information is automatically inserted into the
registration form so you don’t have to re-enter your
business name and address each time. Click on the
calendar located on the Members Only page to sign
up for events.
•Update Company Profile–Instantly update company
contact information and business directory listings in
our database. This will ensure that the chamber has the
most current information on your company.
13
l
• Download Chamber Member Web Stickers–Show
your support for the community by adding a Myrtle
Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Web Sticker to your
Web site. The chamber has always provided stickers and
plaques for members to place on their storefronts. Now
it’s easy to add a Web Sticker to your “virtual” storefront.
The Members Only section can be found at:
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Members
Only.
We hope that you will take full advantage of this
feature. Members will need to use a unique username
and password to log in. For your username and
password, e-mail Andrea Bonewicz, membership
services coordinator, at bonewicza@mbchamber.org.
Each month your Myrtle Beach Area
Chamber of Commerce selects a member
from the business cards collected
at chamber events to spotlight on
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
The more events you attend, the
greater your chance of being a star.
Congratulations to our latest “Be a Star”
winner–Jackie Crandell, community
relations manager, Myrtle Beach Pelicans.
Read about Crandell and the Myrtle Beach
Pelicans at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com,
click on Grand Strander at the top of the
page.
Can-Am Days
What started as an event for Canadians visiting the
Myrtle Beach area during their spring school break has
evolved into a festival, not only for visiting Canadians,
but for all guests and locals. The 46th Annual
Canadian-American Days will run March 10-18.
As part of its evolution, Can-Am Days has a new
welcome reception, Celebration Expo featuring
the Can-Am Welcome Reception and 14th Annual
Business & Restaurant Expo. Mark your calendars for
March 15 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-8 p.m., Myrtle
Beach Convention Center, Exhibition Halls B & C.
The event is free and open to the public. The first
500 through the doors at 10 a.m. will receive a free
Canadian-American flag pin. There also will be door
prizes, complimentary Wendy’s coffee, music and
entertainment, including a special performance from
‘No Strings Attached’ Big Band from Burlington,
Ontario. During the evening, restaurants will be
serving samples of their famous dishes. MBACC
members will be able to enjoy the food free of charge
as part of Business After Hours (registration
information on Page 14). The public will purchase
tickets for the food sampling.
Can-Am Days will be welcoming the following special
guests: Michael Wilson, Canadian Ambassador to the
United States, David Wilkins, U.S. Ambassador to
Canada, members of Congress, the Canadian-American
Economic Alliance, and the Congressional Friends of
Canada.
A joint military band concert featuring the 282nd
U.S. Army “Victory” Band from Fort Jackson, S.C.,
and the Canadian Air Force 22 Wing Concert Band
from North Bay, Ontario, which includes members
of the Canadian Air Force 8 Wing Concert Band
of Trenton, Ontario, will take place at 7 p.m. on
March 15 at the Myrtle Beach Community Church,
formerly the Forum Theatre, at Fantasy Harbour.
Free tickets are available at the chamber’s Oak Street
office (supply is limited). During the concert, the
bands will perform a musical tribute to members of
the Canadian and American armed forces who are
currently serving in the military.
!
e
r
e
are h
For a complete list of activities, stop by one of our
welcome centers and pick up an events flyer, call
(843) 626-7444 or visit CanAmDays.com.
Welcome Can-Am Visitors
Here are some ways you can help our visitors enjoy
the festival:
• Post messages on marquees, signs and banners
emphasizing Can-Am Days and welcoming both
Canadian and American visitors.
• Refer them to one of our three welcome receptions:
March 12–Lakewood Camping Resort Conference
Center in Myrtle Beach, March 13–Kingston
Presbyterian Church Social Hall in Conway, or
March 15–Myrtle Beach Convention Center in
Myrtle Beach.
• If two flagpoles are available, display both the
American and Canadian flags. Fly them at the
same height, with the American flag on the right.
The salute to Canada continues with a concert
featuring country music stars Lonestar. The popular
group will be performing at The Palace Theatre on
March 16. Tickets run $42 each (includes tax) and may
be purchased at The Palace Theatre at Broadway at the
Beach or by calling (843) 448-0588.
A-Tax
Forum
Join your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and Myrtle Beach Area
Hospitality Association for a discussion on A-Tax. Our goal is to help members
better understand the issues surrounding this tax and how it is distributed.
Mark you calendars for April 11 starting at 9 a.m. (includes continental
breakfast).
At a Glance
Location
A-Tax Forum
April 11starting at 9 a.m. (includes continental breakfast)
Avista Resort, 300 N. Ocean Blvd., North Myrtle Beach
Cost
Free, value added benefit of membership
Register
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Business Connections
Questions? Call (843) 916-7318
Event
Date/Time
m
s
s
e
n
i
s
Bu
H. Gael Sansbury was presented
with the 2007 American Advertising
Federation’s (AAF) Silver Medal Award
for Coastal Advertising and Marketing
Professionals (CAMP) at the annual
ADDY Awards. The AAF’s Silver
Medal Award Program recognizes
individuals who have made outstanding
contributions to advertising, and who
have been active in furthering the
industry’s standards, demonstrating
creative excellence, and showing
responsibility in areas of social concern.
Sansbury is employed by SCORE
Magazine. She is a dedicated volunteer
and fundraiser and serves on numerous
organizations.
Home Instead Senior Care® has a new Web
site: homeinstead.com/401. Visit the site
to learn more about Home Instead Senior
Care and discover a comprehensive list
of their “Companionship” and “Home
Helper” services.
Keith Borshak has joined Lesnik
Himmelsbach Wilson & Hearl Advertising
& Public Relations (LHWH) as a
creative director. Borshak has 16 years of
experience in art directing and creative
directing for various advertising agencies
throughout Southeast and Southwest.
n
LHWH received the overall “Best of
Show” award at the 2007 Coastal
Advertising and Marketing Professionals
annual ADDY Awards. The top award
was for LHWH’s campaign for the
Myrtle Beach Pavilion Amusement Park’s
farewell season and was titled, “One more
memory. One last time.” LHWH also
received “Best of Show” in the “Print”
category for The Riviera–“Another Time
and Place. Here Today.” LHWH received
“Best of Outdoor” for the Myrtle Beach
Pavilion billboard campaign–“One more
memory. One last time,” and “Best of
Broadcast” for McLeod Health–“Cardio.”
During the ceremony, LHWH received
more than 20 awards for excellence
in print, broadcasting and interactive.
The American Advertising Federation’s
ADDY Awards competition is held
annually to select the best advertising
produced in local markets during the
preceding year.
Golf & Tennis Pro Shop Inc. has named
Pat Graw as general manager for its
North Myrtle Beach Martin’s PGA TOUR
Superstore. Graw’s responsibilities include
managing the day-to-day operations
of the North Myrtle Beach store and
maintaining Martin’s reputation for
a high level of customer service and
satisfaction.
David W. Powers, manager and disaster
expert at Ocean Breeze Awnings, is the
new chaplain for the Surfside Beach
Rescue Squad. Powers recently completed
a master’s in ministry and is a board
certified expert in traumatic stress. The
chaplain is a volunteer position that
ministers to patients and squad members.
RE/MAX by the Sea announced that
Angie Shoemaker was the top individual
producer for the third year in a row. She
was the No. 11 top individual producer
in the Carolina’s and No. 3 in the state
of South Carolina. She also received
RE/MAX’s elite Platinum Club Award.
RE/MAX Town & Country is pleased
to announce that for 2006 Delcenia
Currence was named top sales agent,
Rob Mason and his team were top sales
team, and Matt Harper was recognized
as top listing agent for the company.
These agents, as well as Eleanor
Anthony, Juliann Bushaw, Carol Cape,
Dan and Linda Ferworn, Lisa Josephs,
David Levy, Julie Samples, Kim Silver,
Pat Westmoreland, Ping Yang and Bob
Zeller, were recognized at the RE/MAX
regional awards ceremony for being
among the top producing agents in the
Carolinas for 2006.
Diane DeVaughn Stokes, Stages Video
Productions Inc., and Dr. Muriel O’Tuel,
Muriel O’Tuel Presentations, will be
guest speakers at the Administrative
Professionals Conference in Columbia
on April 26 in celebration of National
Administrative Professionals Week,
formerly National Secretaries Week.
Both speakers will present an hour length
program to motivate women in the
workplace.
Business
After Hours
Event
Date/Time
Location
Cost
Business After Hours
March 15, 5-8 p.m.
Exhibition Halls B & C
Register
Free, value-added benefit
of membership
click on Business Connections
or call (843) 916-7250
Deadline
March 12
It’s a party and expo combined into one huge celebration! The
Celebration Expo featuring the Can-Am Welcome Reception
and 14th Annual Business & Restaurant Expo will be held March
15 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. During the evening,
restaurants will serve mouthwatering samples of their famous
dishes. MBACC members will be able to enjoy the food free of
charge as part of Business After Hours. The public will purchase
tickets for the food sampling.
Win a free membership list! Network with at least 10 different
people during Business After Hours, bring their business
cards to the registration table and enter a drawing for a free
membership list.
Networking Tip: When you smile, the whole world smiles
with you. Leave your problems at the door and put on a smile.
Studies show you are more approachable when you smile.
We Are In Business
For Small Business
Welcome New Members
A & A Acupuncture &
Chinese Medicine, LLC
Holistic Medicine
Dr. Fred Russo
511 28th Ave. N., Ste. B
(843) 946-6100
drfredrusso.com
C & K Systems, Inc.
Computer-Products/Services
Jeanne Quirke
648 Independence Pkwy.,
#400
Chesapeake, VA 23320
(843) 685-4966
cksystem.com
A Place at the Beach
Real Estate-Condo/Cottages
Ann Petree
405 21st Ave. S.
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
(703) 280-5050
Centavos
Ads-Directories/Magazines/
Periodicals
Paul Cordero
821 2nd Ave. N.
Surfside Beach, SC 29575
(843) 277-1144
centavos.net
AIG-American General Life
& Accident Insurance
Insurance
Alan Roberds
2294 Technology Blvd.
Conway, SC 29526
(843) 251-1746
americangeneral.com/
lifeinternet2000/careerweb.
nsf/contents/index
Aspen Grille
Restaurant-Fine Dining
Trey Horres
5101 N. Kings Hwy.
Myrtle Beach. SC 29577
(843) 449-9191
aspen-grille.com
Century 21
Coastal Lifestyles
Real Estate-Company
Jim Potts
2734-D Beaver Run Blvd.
(843) 215-8020
c21myrtlebeachlifestyles.com
ConXit Technology Group
Computer-Network
Consulting/Service
Jason Ramp
1319 17th Ave. S., Ste. A
(843) 839-9224
conxit.com
Bonefish Grill South
Myrtle Beach
Restaurant-Full Menu
Shane Wright
8703 Hwy. 17 Byp. S.
(843) 267-2250
bonefishgrill.com
Corinthian Media, Inc.
Advertising
Larry Schneiderman
214 W. 29th St.
New York, NY 10001
(212) 279-5700
mediabuying.com
Boys and Girls Club
of the Grand Strand
Organizations/Clubs
Don Hall
1404 Carver St.
Myrtle Beach. SC 29577
(843) 445-9964
bgclubgs.org
Executive Coaching
InternationalAn Excellent Speaker
Coaching-Business/Personal
Thomas Swank
574 Wildflower Trail
(843) 347-1800
Fabric Showcase, LLC
Fabric Shops
Nancy Dunn
10788 Kings Rd.
(910) 232-5745
Flintlake Apartment Homes
Apartments
Celeste Grippo
650 West Flintlake Ct.
(843) 236-5735
flintlake.com
Frames-USAEyeglass and Pictures
Pictures-Framing/Dealers
Shawn Gaines
5190 Hwy 17 Byp.
(843) 651-9322
Freedom Boat Club
Organizations/Clubs
Tamie Draper
2120 Sea Mountain Hwy.,
Ste. 2203
(843) 280-8700
freedomboatclub.com
Holiday Inn Express
Hotel-Motel
Donna White
11445 Ocean Hwy.
Pawleys Island, SC 29585
(843) 235-0808
(800) 930-0135
hiexpress.com/pawleysisland
Imprint Marketing
Concepts
Ads-Specialties
Linda Allison
2228 Swamp Fox Cir.
Little River, SC 29566
(843) 280-4781
Indexx Printing Solutions
Printers
Mike Sachwald
303 Haywood Rd.
Greenville, SC 29607
(864) 230-6258
indexxinc.com
Life Line Chiropractic/
Carol A. Camberg, DC
Chiropractic
Dr. Carol Camberg 4125 Hwy. 544
(843) 839-5588
Goin’ Postal Conway
Shipping-Services
Antonio Saintiague
University Commons
201 Graduate Rd., Ste. 112
Conway, SC 29526
(843) 234-3500
goinpostal.com
Local Beach Trader
Advertising
Justin Kirk
(843) 457-5416
Grande Media
Video-Film Production Services
Barbara Goldberg
4821 Lusterleaf Cir.,
Apt. 204
(843) 421-1270
grandemediaproductions.com
Lori’s Golf Shoppe
Golf-Shop/Equipment/Supplies
Lori DeSimone
9966 Beach Dr. SW
Calabash, NC 28467
(910) 575-0871
(800) 606-0871
lorisgolfshoppe.com
Mobile Media
of the Carolinas
Advertising
Joey Hyatt
3356 Overbrook Dr.
Conover, NC 28613
(828) 291-4442
Moniques Unique Creations
Crafts
John Farber
88 Plantation Rd.
(843) 294-1854
Myrtle Beach
House Hunter
Real Estate-Sales
Jennifer Bosco
710 E. 21st Ave. N.
(843) 448-8045
(800) 448-8045
R. Stephen Camp PA
Accountants-Public
Stephen Camp, CPA
3691 Palmetto Pointe Blvd.,
Ste. 302
(843) 294-4900
rsccpa.net
SystemOperations.com
DBA Fareless.com
Internet-Services
Cheryl Holowacz
1557 Victoria Ln.
(843) 462-4787
SystemOperations.com
RCS Productions
Entertainment
Stephen Moore
647 Lees Lake Rd.
Fairburn, GA 30213
(770) 306-9155
rcsproductions.com
Telerent
Cable Television
Susan Shue
4191 Fayetteville Rd
Raleigh, NC 27603
(919) 719-2198
(800) 316-8876
telerent.com
Realty Masters Co.Patsy Jennings
Real Estate-Sales
Patsy Jennings
3007-A Church St.
(843) 455-6729
patsyjennings.com
Office Max
Office-Supplies/Equipment
Tim Jacobson
1105 Seaboard St.
(843) 448-3100
officemax.com
Sailfish Resort
Hotel-Motel
Leisa Cannon
2202 N. Ocean Blvd.
(843) 444-0044
MyrtleBeachSailfishResort.com
Palmetto Designs, LtdHome Plans
Contractors-General
Christine Naylor
503 Robert Grissom Pkwy.
(843) 839-5562
Palmetto Designs, LtdHome Plans
Contractors-General
Christine Naylor
4403 Big Barn Dr., Ste. 106
(843) 399-9135
Southern Wine & Spirits
Beverages
Tom Buehler
332 Bush Dr.
(843) 236-1721
southernwine.com
The Sign Station, Inc.
Signs
Angela Oyler
517 Hwy.17 N.
(843) 280-8630
signstationsc.com
Williams Painting, LLC
Contractors-Painters
Edward Williams
802 65th Ave. N., Apt. C
(843) 267-5968
YES, Inc
Real Estate-Sales
JC Young Jr.
P.O. Box 4575
Calabash, NC 28467
(910) 575-9371
YES-ONE.COM
Sunbelt Staffing Associates
Employment-Agencies
Cheryl Bradford
1100 Commons Blvd.,
Ste. 901
(843) 272-4343
o
County
Horry
Georgetown
2005
Rate
2006
Rate
121,580
5.6
126,650
4.8
30,450
8.0
31,050
6.8
Dec.
+39.8%
$262,351
$366,897
$36,244
$38,181
Accommodations
Tax Collections
Nov.
+5.3%
Dec.
+6.8%
$16,386
$27,530
KEY
2005
2006
Myrtle Beach
Unincorporated
North
Myrtle Beach
Surfside
Beach
Georgetown
County
32
271
23
5
44
$8,763,093
$44,148,166
$4,621,686
$803,494
$8,861,020
Multi-Family Bldgs
2
20
4
0
3
Multi-Family Units
12
265
76
0
20
$4,800,000
$17,233,953
$9,975,337
0
$1,790,215
Location
County
2005
2006
% Change
$633,485,193 $599,050,055 -5.4%
Horry
Georgetown $95,834,090 $91,662,339 -4.4%
Nov. Admissions Tax
2006
% Change
$423,641
-27.6%
$37,258
-50.3%
Nov. Airport Activity
Arrivals
Departures
Nov.
-9.9%
$488,449
$440,211
Oct.
-1.3%
$55,834
$55,091
Residential Construction Permits November - ‘06
Nov. Gross Retail Sales
County
2005
$584,915
Horry
Georgetown $75,001
Oct.
+6.7%
$669,349
$714,078
Georgetown County
Nov. Unemployment
HORRY County
ECONOMIC INDICATORS
Single Family Units
Single Family
Units Cost
Multi-Family
Bldgs Cost
Residential Construction Permits November - ‘05
Location
Single Family Units
Single Family
Units Cost
Myrtle Beach
Unincorporated
North
Myrtle Beach
Surfside
Beach
Georgetown
County
16
509
34
N/A
40
$8,893,357
$71,778,853
$4,527,383
N/A
$9,748,873
2005
2006
% Change
Multi-Family Bldgs
1
17
4
N/A
5
49,502
51,791
+4.62%
Multi-Family Units
169
307
68
N/A
44
50,747
54,104
+6.62%
$34,156,696
$35,980,481
$5,701,433
N/A
$2,820,000
Multi-Family
Bldgs Cost
Warm Welcome
Front Row (L to R): Robert Wilkinson, Curves; Avis Wilkinson, Curves; Marlene Grover, CENTURY 21
McAlpine Associates Inc.; Christine Bouchard, Merrill Lynch; Sandi Madorno, At Home Total Care; Jackie
Crandell, Myrtle Beach Pelicans; Mike Hill, AvCraft Support Services, Inc.; Donna Vance, Garden Manor
Village.
Back Row (L to R): Thomas Higgs III, Vocelli Pizza; John McCann Jr., Vocelli Pizza; Gregory Beauprez,
WineStyles; Ken van Heyningen, Coastal Transformations; Shellie White, State Farm Insurance Co.–
John W. Griggs Jr.; Kristi Thompson, Horry-Georgetown Technical College.
Thanks to BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina for providing refreshments for the reception.
p
Order popular
publications online
The chamber’s updated Grand
Strand Living® is a 120-page guide
that includes everything from
how to get a marriage license to
the history of the area. A benefit
of your chamber membership
includes two listings in Grand
Strand Living: an alphabetical
listing in the Membership Directory
and a category/service listing in
the Business Guide. Plus visitors
can locate your business online
in our Web business directory at
VisitMyBeach.com (click on About
the Area/Business Directory).
Number of copies printed: 35,000.
Advertisers were mailed copies of
Grand Strand Living. Other chamber
members may obtain a copy by going
to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com
and clicking on Member Resources/
Member Request for Grand Strand
Living.
PR
hotspots
Stay & Play® is a 256-page glossy,
full-color guide to lodging,
attractions, dining, shopping, golf,
by Megan Winnett, MBACC associate public relations manager
theaters and events along South
Carolina’s 60-mile Grand Strand.
Readers will notice a size change and
a tab insert dividing the Play and
Stay sections. Also the golf section
has been changed to a grid format
In the Works
In the News
like the dinning section, and new
• “The Grand Strand Meets the Big Apple”–
• In The Golfers World of USA Today.com,
destination editorial and additional
On
March
27,
approximately
30-50
national
a blog was written by Larry Olmsted naming
pictures have been added to better
media
will
be
going
on
a
“blind
date
with
a
Myrtle Beach “The best golf vacation value in
represent the excitement of the
girl
named
Myrtle,”
expressed
Brad
Dean,
the USA.”
Grand Strand. Number of copies
president and CEO of the MBACC. The
• Outdoor writer, Richard Creason who visited
printed: 475,000; overruns
26+ Helen Mills Theater in New York City
the Myrtle Beach area in November, featured
of the Play section: 125,000.
will be turned into the Grand Strand where
his Myrtle Beach adventures in the February
The 72-page Stay & Play Pocket
we will engage and energize the press with
issue of The Gad-A-Bout, an outdoors
guide also features destination
Grand Strand news, photos, cuisine and live
publication in Indiana.
information, photos, a detachable
entertainment. This press launch will strike the
map and a tab insert and is the
interest of national travel media and educate
How You can Help
same size as the Stay & Play.
them on everything that the Myrtle Beach area • Did your business make renovations? Did
The guide is available at the
has to offer. Please contact me if you would
you add a new addition to your property?
chamber’s four welcome centers
like
more
information
on
how
you
can
get
Upcoming plans? Please keep me informed
and is distributed at trade shows
involved
with
this
event.
on any new activity within your business.
throughout the United States and
•
C
anadian-American
Days
Press
Trip–With
the
Canada.
help of our PR agency, M. Booth & Associates, You can reach Megan Winnett at
we have secured five A-list Canadian media
(843) 916-7218 or winnettm@mbchamber.org.
Advertisers were mailed copies
of the Stay & Play guides.
with several potential attendees for a press trip
Other chamber members
March 14-17 to the Myrtle Beach area.
may obtain a copy by going to • Woman’s Day Giveaway–Ocean Creek Resort
and the Myrtle Beach area are featured on the
and clicking on Member
giveaway page of Womansday.com, which has
Resources/Member Request
400,000-700,000 unique Web viewers a day.
for Stay & Play.
The page will stay posted for six weeks.
Keep up-to-date and learn all about the public relations
initiatives and future PR plans for the Myrtle Beach area.
q
Taking Care of Business
Programs and services to help
small businesses grow and succeed.
Warm Welcome
Event
Date/Time
Location
Warm Welcome Reception
March 27, 8:30 a.m.
MBACC Boardroom
1200 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach
Cost
Free, value-added benefit of membership
Register
click on Business Connections
Questions? Call (843) 916-7225
New members, new employees at your business and existing
chamber members are encouraged to attend one of our
regularly scheduled Warm Welcome receptions. This is your
opportunity to meet chamber staff, introduce your business/
organization, and familiarize yourself with the many benefits
the chamber has to offer. Don’t forget your business cards.
Last month we looked at how the U.S. Chamber of Commerce offers a collection of services
for small business owners. As a small business member of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of
Commerce, you receive complimentary membership in the U.S Chamber of Commerce. Visit
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click on Member Resources for more information about your
U.S. Chamber membership.
This month, we’re taking a look at the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce and the benefits
MBACC small business members receive through this partnership.
MBACC’s small business members can enjoy free electronic access to the South Carolina Chamber
of Commerce statewide grassroots lobbying and information networks. The program, called eVoice,
extends electronic access to businesses employing fewer than 10 people. That access includes receipt of
e-mail alerts and calls to action regarding vital small business legislation, electronic polls on small
business issues, as well as e-mail subscriptions to South Carolina Business, the chamber’s new monthly
magazine providing information to help businesses prosper in the global economy, and Legislative
Update, which is published weekly during the legislative session. eVoice members also can purchase any
titles in the chamber’s heralded legal reference publication series at discounted member prices.
Eligible chamber members will be contacted by the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce
or you may call the S.C. Chamber directly at (803) 799-4601.
Learn More: MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Member Resources
u Atlanta Survey, From cover page
u Sun Fun, From cover page
Competition, the world’s tallest sandcastle
attempt, sporting events, a kids’ fair,
Gospel Music Day, fireworks and more.
New this year, the Miss Bikini Wahine
Pageant will be a preliminary to the Miss
Hawaiian Tropic® International Pageant
in Hawaii and a full day of incredible
beach bands will keep you shagging during
Beach Music Day.
World’s Tallest Sandcastle
Watch out Virginia Beach, the world’s
tallest sandcastle designation will be
returning to Myrtle Beach. The world’s
r
tallest sandcastle will be built from
May 25-June 2 in downtown Myrtle
Beach. When completed, the sandcastle
will stand at a towering 40 feet tall–that’s
7½ feet taller than last year’s sandcastle.
Sun Fun–A Celebration of Summer runs
from June until September with the Sun
Fun Festival, the summer long concert
series and wraps up with the Beach,
Boogie & BBQ Festival on Aug. 31Sept. 1. For more information,
take a look at SunFunFestival.com.
Plexus recruited 24 people and split them
into two groups: 1. Family Vacations
(families with children) and 2. Weekend
Getaways (couples alone). Two hours were
spent with each group discussing their
vacation patterns. Questions included:
How many vacations do you take a year?
How long are the vacations? What do
you look for in a destination? How do
you research your location? What do you
look for in accommodations? What type
of ambience or “feel” is important in a
destination?
Both groups had some strong opinions
on what creates a memorable vacation.
Key Findings for the
Family Vacations Group
•Most families take both annual
vacations (sometimes several) and a
number of long weekend getaways.
And while they may fly, driving is
more common. A six hour drive is
no problem.
•The beach is a favored destination–
offering more variety than the
mountains. The majority of participants
preferred different beach experiences
from year to year.
u See Atlanta Survey, Page 19
u Atlanta Survey, From Page 18
•Many adults prefer to relax and unwind at the beach.
Some want adventure and action. Good restaurants and
sightseeing activities round out the experience.
• A beach destination needs to offer a variety of activities
to satisfy the diverse interests of families. These activities
include pools, amusement parks, shopping, sightseeing
and golf. The Florida Gulf Coast is a favorite area due to
the variety of beach experiences, as well as its sand and
water. Atlantic Coast beach destinations are often sought
out for their attractions, sightseeing value and charm.
• The ideal beach destination has a “tropical” feel with
soft, white sand and turquoise blue water, also palm
trees. It has a “happy” and “festive” feeling. Some
destinations, like the Gulf Coast, consistently offer that
“feel” of white sand and blue water, great sightseeing and
a calming atmosphere.
• Most families do moderate to extensive upfront research
on potential destinations. Most use the Internet as their
primary research tool after a “short list” of destinations
has been developed by the family. Word of mouth is also
a key information source–as are chambers of commerce–
both are seen as offering unique insights into potential
destinations.
• Beach destinations usually have wide appeal. This
segment craves a mix of activities, such a relaxation
and sightseeing and most like to experience a variety
of different places. Getaways to Southeastern beach
destinations typically involve driving. Six hours drive
time is reasonable for most taking three to four day
getaways.
“You never know how the area is perceived until you ask.”
Bernstein noted. “These focus groups shed some new light
on the old and new Grand Strand. Already, the chamber
is implementing some of the suggestions that came out
of the survey. We are taking these findings and building
a quantitative survey that will allow us to generate even
more hard-core data.”
• Key motivation for weekend getaways is to “get out of
the city.” Social events and friends/family get-togethers
are triggering factors, in addition to the need for
relaxation.
According to Bernstein, these types of surveys benefit the
members by allowing the chamber to get an up-close look
on why or why not residents of certain geographical areas
visit the Grand Strand. The findings will help the chamber
tweak current marketing plans and build new campaigns
aimed at these markets. “It helps us to promote the Myrtle
Beach area more efficiently and hopefully bring in more
tourism dollars,” Bernstein explained.
• Decision making typically starts either with the budget
and lists of specials, or with ideas of interesting events/
sites. TV and publications play a key role in idea
generation.
• The Internet plays a key role in how this group,
especially those interested in theater and sightseeing,
researches potential destinations and accommodations.
Internet promotional specials and virtual tours
are important Web site components. Special
accommodation services, such as pet friendly hotels
and B&Bs, also are key.
• Lodging is an area where much research time is spent.
Online resources, 800 numbers and collateral are all
tools used to evaluate accommodation choices.
• The ideal beach destination is similar to that described
by the family vacations group, however, this group’s
description focuses more on relaxation and a sightseeing
“twist.”
• Firsthand experience with Myrtle Beach was very
limited. The “old perceptions” of Myrtle Beach were
still pervasive among those familiar with the area.
• Most of the “ideal” destinations mentioned (on an
unaided basis) were quaint, relaxed beach areas that
spanned from North Carolina to the Gulf Coast.
Key Findings for the Weekend Getaways Group
• Most couples take three to six weekend getaways per
year with each typically three to four days in length.
• Perceptions (unaided) of Myrtle Beach were mostly
positive with great restaurants, lots of nightlife and
entertainment, and a nice relaxed atmosphere in many
surrounding areas.
• The types of weekend getaway trips vary widely–
from city-oriented theater and sightseeing visits,
to get-togethers with friends or family, to relaxing
beach or mountain trips.
• More of this group has had recent experiences with
Myrtle Beach and the experiences were positive.
The biggest obstacle was that Myrtle Beach was not
“top of mind.”
Plexus Marketing Group suggested that to recruit Atlanta
residents to the Myrtle Beach area, the Grand Strand
should continue to build its “variety of activities and
experiences at the beach” image. Publication photos
should show the beach, water and palm trees. There
should be more coverage of restaurants, shopping and
theater/show/entertainment. The Myrtle Beach area
should promote “niche” experiences, such as “Beach,”
“Theater,” “Sightseeing,” and “Golf.” And promotional
materials need to be more “niche market” oriented, such
as “Twentysomething” audience, “Retiree” audience,
Families,” and “Couples.”
For more information on the Atlanta Focus Groups
Survey, contact Bernstein at bernsteinw@mbchamber.org
or call (843) 916-7217.
s
Member Anniversaries for March
27 Years
Manpower
25 Years
Waterway Hills Golf Club
24 Years
Ocean Creek Resort
23 Years
Covenant Towers
22 Years
Law Offices of N. David DuRant &
Associates P.A.
21 Years
The Carolina Opry
Fairfield Westwinds
Flamingo Grill
20 Years
AAA Vacations
Hazen Company Inc.
19 Years
Dunes Village Resort
Jeffcoat, Pike & Nappier-NMB
Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club
18 Years
Sail Inn
17 Years
First Citizens Bank-MB
Litus Properties
Schooner II Beach & Racquet Club
Verizon Information Systems
16 Years
Cabana Inn
Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner &
Show
Intracoastal Outreach/Grand Strand
Ministries
14 Years
Harrison Realty Co.
Mercy Hospice and Palliative Care
Office Furniture USA/ Talotta Contract
Interiors
Peoples Underwriters Inc.
Wachovia Securities
13 Years
Grand Strand Nissan Inc.
12 Years
The Bounce Agency
Classic Swing Golf School Inc.
Doctors Care-21st Avenue
Grand Strand Optimist Club
Legends In Concert
11 Years
Info Quest Inc.-Stanton Media Group
Innovative Hiring Technology (IHT)/
Grand Strand Inc.
Party Maker Inc.-38th Ave. N.
10 Years
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc.Murrells Inlet
Joe’s Crab Shack
Murder Mystery Productions
Myrtle Beach Homes
9 Years
American Hospitality Academy
B B & T-76TH AVE.
Careteam Inc.
Great Southern Publishers
Hearn, Brittain & Martin
Myrtle Beach Fire & Safety Co.
Pelen Inc.
Surfwater Promotions
Drake H. Tilley Sr.
Warren’s Restaurant & Lounge
8 Years
Croissants Bakery & Cafe
Frank & Son Inc.-Hospitality Furniture,
Furnishings, Refinishings
Great American Steak & Buffet Co.
InterDyn-Artis
Murrells Inlet 2007 Inc.
Myrtle Beach Employment
Tradition Golf School
7 Years
Conway National Bank-Murrells Inlet
First Church of Christ, Scientist
Marsha Griffin & Associates
The Printing Port-NMB
Sparks Toyota
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
6 Years
DeBordieu Colony Real Estate Inc.
Grassie Granite & Marble
Horry County State Bank-Hwy. 17
Bypass
Hunters Ridge Child Care
New Life Natural Foods-38th Ave. N.
Thomas Heating & Cooling Inc.
3 Years
Carolina Forest Real Estate
Classic Home Building & Design Inc.
Discover Chiropractic
Eagle Crest
Hill Construction Corporation
Lenders Choice Mortgage Company,
LLC
Resort Maps
Thomas J. Rogers Sr.
Thornys Steakhouse & Saloon-Myrtle
Beach
Verizon Wireless
2 Years
Artful Legacy Rubber Stamping & More!
Carrabba’s Italian Grill-Murrells Inlet
Creative Consultants Group Inc.
InfoTech Strategies
Inlet Affairs Banquet & Catering
Jafra Cosmetics-Vicki Jacobs
Lewis Bros. Specialty Advertising
Tilghman Insurance of Myrtle Beach
Waccamaw Animal Rescue Mission
Xango-Sue White Distributor
Young Photography Inc.
5 Years
Atlantic Heating & Cooling
B & M Custom Cycles Inc.
Baldwin Construction Co.
First Federal-Murrells Inlet
Vein Center of South Carolina
Window World of Myrtle Beach
4 Years
Angela Fellenz Photography
Captain Mark Dickson/Shallow Minded
Charters
Carolina Center for Cosmetic &
Restorative Dentistry
Historic Marion Revitalization
Association
MedXpress Transport, LLC
Mike Kelly Law Group, LLC
Ocean Isle Beach Fishing Center
SCBT fka SunBank
Strand Storage Center-Little River
Sutton Park Estates Corp.
United Chiropractic
t
Ribbon–Cutting Ceremonies
Local Beach Trader
(843) 457-5416
Waccamaw Community
Foundation
3655 S. Hwy. 17 Business
(843) 916-4483
waccamawcf.org
WineStyles
2010 Oakheart Rd.
(843) 333-0700
winestyles.net/carolinaforest
World Market
1144 Seaboard St.
(925) 518-9209
WorldMarket.com
ba
Jacqualine Crandell
Community Relations Director
Myrtle Beach Pelicans
1251 21st Ave. N.
(843) 918-6002
myrtlebeachpelicans.com
Chamber Member Since:
February 1998
host to the Wilmington
Blue Rocks (A/Kansas City
Royals) at 7:05 pm. For
ticket information, call
(843) 918-6000 or visit
the Pelicans Web site at
myrtlebeachpelicans.com.
The Grand Strand boasts a variety of
sports including America’s favorite
pastime: baseball. The Myrtle Beach
Pelicans, an Atlanta Braves Carolina
League Class-A affiliate, have been thrilling
fans since 1999. The team, which has
sent several players on to the “big leagues”
in Atlanta, play at Coastal Federal Field
located at the corner of 21st Avenue North
and Robert M. Grissom Parkway.
The Pelicans are preparing for their first
full season under the new ownership group
led by Chuck Greenberg. In addition to
serving as the President and Managing
Partner of Myrtle Beach Pelicans LP,
Greenberg holds the same title for the
successful Altoona Curve (AA/Pittsburgh
Pirates) and State College Spikes (A/
Pittsburgh Pirates) franchises in Central
Pennsylvania.
For a second straight summer bubble gum
will fly into the stands at Coastal Federal
Field as Ralph “Rocket” Wheeler returns
as the manager of the Pelicans. Wheeler
traditionally tosses gum into the seats on
his way to the third base coaches’ box.
This season, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans will
be sporting a new line of game uniforms
and caps along with a new logo. Fans can
purchase new merchandise featuring the
new logos and colors in the Pelicans Pro
Shop located at Coastal Federal Field.
Opening Day 2007 is scheduled for
Thursday, April 5 when the Pelicans play
Celebrity mascots
Of course, homeruns and
stolen bases aren’t the only
reasons to attend a Pelican’s
game–for many it’s about
watching a yellow lab. Over
the last eight years Dinger
“The Home Run Dog” has
earned celebrity status in Myrtle Beach
by serving as one of the mascots for the
Pelicans. Dinger might just be the only
dog in America that has his own baseball
card, a “bobbletail” doll, a reading club
for kids, a line of custom dog treats, and a
mini-plan ticket package for dog owners.
Joining Dinger is another lively mascot,
Splash, the biggest bird on the beach. At
eight years old, Splash is still the clown of
the ballpark. He has twice been ejected
from a ballgame, but his lovable look
allowed the umpires to forgive him. Splash
warns fans to always keep an eye on your
food and drinks as he’s always looking to
sneak some ballpark goodies.
Behind the scenes
Along with the 25 member baseball
team, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans has a
full-time staff of 18. Summer months
add an additional 100 part-timers. The
front office duties run the gamut from
media relations and ticketing to facility
operations and in-game entertainment.
One individual who plans a variety of
programs and special events for the
team and community is Jackie Crandell,
community relations director. Crandell is
entering her first season with the Myrtle
Beach Pelicans.
Crandell says that winning games isn’t
the Pelicans’ only skill–community
involvement is another homerun winner.
For the 6th straight year, Dinger will serve
as the official “spokes-dog” of the Home
Run Reading Club. Dinger’s Home Run
Reading Club has been up and running
since 2002 and since then thousands
of elementary school children in Horry
County have participated and have
received prizes as an incentive to read.
Tell us a little bit about yourself – work
history, how long you have lived in the
area, how long have you worked for
the Myrtle Beach Pelicans? I grew up
in the Pittsburgh area, no one is really
from Pittsburgh, so I like to say I’m from
around that area. I moved to Kinston,
N.C., after graduating in 1995 and
u Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Page 23
bb
u Myrtle Beach Pelicans, From Page 22
got my first “taste” of minor league
baseball by attending Kinston Indian
games. Kinston is such a small town
so baseball was huge. I have a 10 year
old and baseball has been a part of
his whole life. I moved to Raleigh,
N.C., about 4 years ago and worked
as a legal assistant and office manager.
The general manager of the Pelicans,
North Johnson, has been my friend
from Kinston days so when he took
this job I came aboard. My son and I
adore Myrtle Beach; beach life has been
a refreshing and welcoming change of
pace.
What is your role as community
relations director?
My role is to represent and promote
the Pelicans and get involved with all
the different organizations around the
community.
What’s a typical day like?
Organizing mascot and player
appearances, attending chamber and
other organizational meetings …
basically networking and meeting
as many people as possible. Once
the players arrive (the first week of
April) we’ll be visiting schools, local
restaurants and businesses, youth
baseball openings, etc.
What do you enjoy most about
your job? My job is so people friendly
and I’m such a social butterfly so it’s
wonderful that I get to interact with
so many individuals on a daily basis
and since I work with our mascot
Splash directly it’s very rewarding to be
around children and experience their
excitement at what we do.
What makes it challenging?
The challenging part is not being
able to contribute and do everything
around the community. I get so many
donation requests on a daily basis and
I can’t contribute to all of them and it’s
extremely difficult to pick and choose
which organization to donate to. I
hate to turn people down but I try to
contribute to the schools as much as
possible.
Has your membership been
worthwhile?
By far the best thing for me to get
involved with as a new individual in the
community. The chamber members are
so helpful and welcoming
Anything else you would like to add?
I’m really happy to be living in this
wonderful community and looking
forward to my first season with the
Pelicans.
How’s baseball doing in the Myrtle
Beach area? Does the community
support the Pelicans?
Oh yes, the community around Myrtle
Beach is extremely supportive of the
Pelicans. Myrtle Beach is a big tourist
area but the locals give off that small
town feel which is so welcoming. Like
I said I lived in Kinston for many years
so I’m accustomed to everyone knowing
everyone. I’ve been told ticket sales are
up so I think that’s more proof that
Myrtle Beach is supportive of us and
what we do.
Any new exciting promotions, special
events, community projects for the
2007 season?
Absolutely, our staff comes to us with
a variety of experiences and ideas that
they have earned from working with
other teams and fields of expertise that
we can draw from. Through these past
experiences we have come up with
some great events for this upcoming
2007 season. There are lots of new and
exciting promotional events in store.
Since we drew your card from those
who attended chamber events, you
must have attended at least one
chamber activity. What benefits/
services have you taken advantage of?
Business After Hours, Connections
Marketplace and Warm Welcome
Reception.
bc
march-april
calendar
March 1
March 5
March 7
March 8
March 10-18
March 13
March 13
March 13
March 13
March 14
March 14
March 15
7:30 a.m.
10 a.m.
9 a.m.
12:30 p.m.
Varies
8 a.m.
9 a.m.
3:30 p.m.
4 p.m.
8 a.m.
9 a.m.
10 a.m. & 5 p.m.
March 15
5 p.m.
March 16
March 20
March 20
March 20
March 21
March 27
March 27
March 29
April 3
April 4
April 10
April 10
April 10
April 10
April 11
April 11
April 12
April 13
April 17
April 17
April 17
April 18
7:30 a.m.
9 a.m.
2:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m.
10 a.m.
8:30 a.m.
10:30 a.m.
9 a.m.
9 a.m.
3:30 p.m.
8 a.m.
9 a.m.
3:30 p.m.
4 p.m.
8 a.m.
9 a.m.
9 a.m.
9 a.m.
9 a.m.
2:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m.
10:30 a.m.
April 19
12 p.m.
April 24
April 24
April 26
April 30
9 a.m.
3 p.m.
4:15 p.m.
1:30 p.m.
Connections Marketplace
Legislative Policy Council
World Class Series
South Strand Council
Canadian-American Days
Myrtle Beach Ambassadors
Technology Workshop
Executive Committee
North Strand Council
South Strand Ambassadors
Small Business Council
Celebration Expo
Business After Hours at
Celebration Expo
International Tourism Seminar
Finance Review Committee
Board of Directors
MBAHA Job Expo
Leadership Series
Technology Workshop
Convention Bureau Committee
Myrtle Beach Ambassadors
Technology Workshop
Executive Committee
North Strand Council
South Strand Ambassadors
A-Tax Forum
Membership Committee
Hurricane Preparedness Expo
Finance Review Committee
Board of Directors
Celebrate Hospitality
LGS Alumni Leadership
Education Series
Leadership Series
Business After Hours
Kori Hippe
Pat Creed, 916-7225*
Kate Miles, 916-7234
Michele Winstead, 916-7232*
Faye Creel, 651-1010
MBACC, 626-7444
Pat Creed, 916-7225
Amie Lee, 916-7238
Andrea Bonewicz, 916-7240
Pat Creed, 916-7225
MBACC, 626-7444
Respond at 916-7250*
Shirley Landry, 916-7203
Amie Lee, 916-7238
MBAHA, 626-9668
Wendy Tipi, 916-7264
Pat Creed, 916-7225
Amie Lee, 916-7238
Pat Creed, 916-7225
Shirley Landry, 916-7203
Amie Lee, 916-7238
* Register online at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com
Member Communications Manager
Colleen Octeau Graphic Designer
Diana Greene Vice President Membership Programs and Services
The Grand Strander, official newsletter of the Myrtle Beach Area
Chamber of Commerce, is published the first Tuesday of every month.
Periodicals U.S. Postage Paid. Myrtle Beach, SC 29578 USPS 124-490.
Send Business Bulletin info to:
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 2115, Myrtle Beach, SC 29578
Fax: (843) 626-0009 or E-mail hippek@mbchamber.org
Questions? Call Kori Hippe at (843) 916-7205
The Grand Strander is printed by Inlet Printing Co.
PERIODICALS
U.S. Postage
PAID
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to
Membership Division
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce,
P.O. Box 2115, Myrtle Beach, SC 29578-2115
USPS 124-490

Perception is reality - Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce

Transcription

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