Cherry Grove Magazine- Spring Issue

Colonial Charters

spring DeCorating

outDoor trips For the Whole Family

$ Priceless $

Cherrry GroveOnline Magazine

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Buy LocaL 5

coLoniaL charters suBdivion 9

10 reasons to pLant trees now 13

margate tower 15

seek safety when purchasing energy-efficient home appLinnces 18

avista resort in north myrtLe Beach 22

prince resort 24

crescent keys in north myrtLe Beach 22

Baywatch resort in north myrtLe Beach 28

fast fixes for forecLosed homes 32

spring decorating 36

time to refinance or Buy 40

outdoor tips for the whoLe famiLy 42

tips for increasing your trucks gas miLage 46

easy ways for moms to save time and money 50

aBout summerviLLe 54

Buy LocaLPromoting local business is as simple as having other company’s business cards or brochures posted on a board in your store. In an effort to promote your area, we are distributing decals that say “Check us out at www.CherryGrove.sc,” in hopes that local shoppers will visit the site to find local restaurants, clothing, specials, coupons and more. We are doing our part, so please join us, and promote your local merchants, and everyone will benefit!

Top Ten reasons To Think LocaLBuy LocaL - Be LocaL – heLp LocaL Businesses

1. Buy LocaL -- Support yourself and Cherry Grove. Many studies have revealed when you buy from an independent, locally owned business in the your own area, rather than a nationally owned businesses, considerably more of your money is used to make purchases from other local businesses. Local businesses continue to strengthen the economic base of the local community. These include case studies showing that local owned businesses generate a premium in enhanced economic impact to the community and our tax base.

2.supporT LocaL area communiTy Groups: Non-profit organizations receive an average 250% more support from smaller Cherry Grove area business owners than they do from large companies.

3. keep your area unique: Where we shop, where we eat and have fun -- all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind local businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character. Local tourism businesses also benefit. “When people go on vacation they generally seek out destinations that offer them the sense of being someplace, not just anyplace.” ~ Richard Moe, President, National Historic Preservation Trust.

4. reduce environmenTaL impacT: Locally owned businesses in your area can make more local purchases requiring less transportation. This generally means contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution.

5. creaTe addiTionaL JoBs: Small local businesses are the largest employer nationally and in the community, provide the most jobs to local residents.

6. receive BeTTer service: Local businesses often hire people with a better understanding of the products and services they offer, and take more time to get to know customers.

Cont. next page

From The ediTor

www.CherryGrove.sc Online Magazine | 2009 4

From The ediTor - Continued

7.invesT in your communiTy: Local businesses are owned by people who live in this community, and they are less likely to leave, and are more invested in the community’s future.

8. puT your Taxes To Good use: Local businesses require a relatively little infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services as compared to nationally owned stores entering your area.

9. Buy WhaT you WanT, noT WhaT BiG adverTisinG BudGeTs WanT you To Buy: A South Carolina marketplace comprised of tens of thousands of small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long-term. A multitude of small businesses, each selecting products and services based not on a national sales plan but on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, promises a much broader range of product choices.

10. promoTe LocaL prosperiTy: An esca-lating body of economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind busi-nesses and distinctive character.

Carl CarolinaEditor in Chief

www.CherryGrove.sc Online Magazine | 2009 5

ceo Dennis Stewart

editor in chiefCarl Carolina

art directorAmy Coats

weB deveLopers Matthew Coats

administration & marketingShaun Stacey

www.cherrygrove.sc onLine magaZineCopyright © 2010Carolina Media Services. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.

3290 Ashley Phosphate Road Charleston, SC 29418Toll Free: (866)532-4725Fax: (866)[email protected] www.CherryGrove.sc

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Colonial Charters Subdivisionin Little River /Longs, South Carolinaby Mirela Monte of Buyers Choice Realty

When I embarked on the assignment to post a blog on the activity at Colonial Charters, the neighborhood I live in, I did not expect to find that Eureka moment, but I did.

In spite of the slow market we had in 2007, Colonial Charters was actually buzzing with activity, selling close to 100% of it’s inventory!!!

This is ONE hOT NEiGhBORhOOD!!! I knew that it was a diamond of a neighborhood. That’s why I bought my home there (that, plus, my daughter begged me to buy there, because most of her friends lived here). You’ll find a high concentration of agent owners here and with good reason: Colonial Charters is the most bang for the dollar that you can get at the Beach, and no one knows that better than the Real Estate Agents.

Located only 7 minutes to the blue Atlantic, within a very short distance to ALL four schools, hospital, doctors, shopping and main highways, and a mere three minute drive

to North Carolina, Colonial Charters is positioned like no other.

I take my daughter and her friends to school in the morning (our group of mothers all take turns taking the girls to school, church, sports and activities), I go jog on the beach, then lift a few weights at the gym on the way home. It’s all in very close proximity of 3-7 minutes.

In the evening we go bicycling on the wide streets or on the golf course trails, rollerblade on the smooth asphalt, or jog around the lakes. Whatever you want; it’s all here: golf course, preserves, lakes, fountains, wild life, and civilization. With fish and turtles in the lakes, Colonial Charters can accommodate almost every hobby...

On Saturdays we go to Indigo Farms, located only 3-4 minutes away. The kids love the many farm animals there, and I love the fresh fruits and vegetables and the great nursery, where you can see

for yourself the largest ficus plant I’ve ever laid my eyes on. It’s

actually a ficus tree now, almost breaking through the rooftop of the nursery.

Colonial Charters is a Huge neighborhood comprised of Four Residential Neighborhoods, three condo projects and two townhome developments. All in all, we have 9 neighborhoods within the neighborhood of Colonial Charters. The big Kahuna is coming shortly, a beautiful development of high end homes situated around several vast lakes, complete with fountains and lovely Waterfalls. It will be a gated community and it will be gorgeous. The old Colonial Charters Golf course has been re-directed and is in the last stages of being completely replanted and revamped. I can see the lovely green pastures of the new golf course from my kitchen window: oh, what a lovely, verdant sight! You should be here!

COlONial ChaRTERs: is iT lOCaTED iN lONGs OR liTTlE RivER?

Colonial Charters is a grand development comprised of several subdivisions and condo projects. Part of the development is located in Little River, SC, and part of it is in Longs, SC.

I live at Colonial Charters, along with about a dozen other Realtors. This is a very popular place for us agents, because it is quiet and tranquil, yet it is close to the beach, schools, hospital and shopping, with easy access to both NC (via hwy. 57) and the rest of Myrtle Beach proper (via hwy. 31). Here you’ll find price points from the $ 100’s all the way to over $ 500’s. It is adjacent to a lovely golf course, recently renamed Palmetto Greens.

My official address is in Little River, yet my friend, who lives only three houses away from me, has a Longs address. Go figure! When I walk to her house I can honestly say that I walked all the way to another city!

Owning a second home at the Beach, or relocating to the easygoing coastal areas of the Carolinas could be more than a dream; Buyers’ Choice Realty can make it a reality for you!

Servicing the entire coast from Charleston, SC, all the way to Wilmington, NC, and everything in between, we are best suited to help you locate your ideal home at the Beach.

Areas serviced:

Myrtle Beach Area: Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Garden City, Pawley’s Island, Murrell’s Inlet, Litchfield, Conway, North Myrtle Beach, Longs, Little River.

South of Myrtle Beach: Georgetown.

Charleston Area: Charleston, Daniel Island, Moncks Corner, Awendaw, McClellanville, Isle of Palms, James Island, Johns Island, Mt. Pleasant, Sullivan’s Island, W. Ashley, Wild Dunes, Summerville, Folly Beach.

Brunswick Islands: Ocean Isle, Sunset Beach, Holden Beach, Southport, Oak Island, to Wilmington, NC.

If you are not sure which part of this lovely coastal area you want to invest in, the professionals at Buyers’ Choice Realty can help you compare the different locations and settle on that perfect spot for you. Location, location, location... Don’t waste your time with several different agents. See the whole picture with only one agent who will help you find your perfect spot in the Sun!

Mirela’s Blog - http://www.myrtlebeachhomes.us/MyBlog

www.CherryGrove.sc Online Magazine | 2009 12

Margate Tower at Kingston Plantation in Myrtle Beachby Mirela Monte of Buyers Choice Realty

For the person who is used to the finer things in life, Margate Tower is the place to call home when in the Myrtle Beach Area.

Margate Tower is the crown jewel of Kingston Plantation, a 145-acre, 450 million dollar master planned oceanfront resort community located within the Arcadian Area of Myrtle Beach, with easy access to highways 31, 22 and 17, 24/7 security, meticulously manicured grounds, a state of the art gym, restaurants, tennis courts, and an endless array of water features: lakes, indoor/outdoor pools and lazy rivers.

This 29 story oceanfront luxury high-rise contains 251 condos varying in size from 1,806 to 2,787 heated square feet. With nine foot ceilings, open floor plans and generous decks overlooking the blue Atlantic, Margate Tower confers every luxury deemed necessary by the discerning buyer. From

stylish indoor corridors with gorgeous views of the verdant surroundings, to double doors to each unit, to separate elevators for the staff, nothing is left to chance here. Once inside, even royalty will feel at home...

There are only 9 units on each floor. The condos ending in the numbers 7, 8 and 9 are ocean view. Units 2 through 7 are oceanfront.

The condos ending in the number 2 are four bedroom units facing the south end, with 180 degree breathtaking views of the Atlantic from its expansive wrap around deck. Nothing impedes the views; even the most claustrophobic can feel comfortable here. With a total of 3,333 sq. ft. under roof, these units are truly magnificent.

The units ending in “7” also have four bedrooms, although the floor plan is somewhat smaller and less exciting. The views from here are also quite good, although somewhat impeded by the next building over, the Brighton.

The units ending in 3, 4 and 5 are three bedroom units. The units ending in “6” are two bedroom units, with a total of 2,129 sq. ft, out of which 310 sq. ft. belong to the deck, a veritable oceanfront veranda.

If you are buying a condo here and are thinking of renting it out when you’re not using it, stay away from floors 4, 5, 28 and 29. These floors have been reserved for owner occupants only.

The Margate Tower is Luxury at its best with nothing missing except for the 13-th floor. As in other high rises, this number is absent from the elevator buttons... Not a bad thing if you’re superstitious...

Seek safety when purchasing energy-efficient home appliances(ARA) - Have government or manufacturer rebate programs enticed you to purchase a new home appliance, like a clothes washer or refrigerator? Or are you simply in the market to upgrade? Before purchasing any major appliance, it’s important to consider all your options before you make a final decision.

According to an October 2009 survey commissioned by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a leading independent safety testing organization, one in five homeowners who are involved in purchasing decisions independently reported they are likely to buy a large household appliance in the new year. That number increased to one in four upon hearing that states may offer cash back for purchasing an energy-efficient appliance during 2010.

“As today’s appliance technology continues to advance, it is now, more than ever, critical to consider safety when purchasing these items,” says Ms. Simin Zhou, vice president and general manager, UL’s Appliances, HVAC/R and Components business unit. “Energy efficiency is an important attribute, but family safety also needs to be part of the decision-making process.”

A 2009 National Fire Protection Association report states that in2006, U.S. consumers reported approximately 17,700 home fires involving clothes dryers or washing machines, resulting in 15 deaths, 360 injuries and $194 million in property damage.

Five tips can be used to help assess whether your current appliances are safe for continued use and help you to make smart decisions when purchasing new appliances:

1. Read the owners’ manual or users’ guide: These resources provide essential information to keep you safe.

2. Only use as intended: Using appliances for activities other than what they are designed for can pose serious risks. The clothes dryer should only be used for fabrics and an oven should not be used to heat the home.

3. Trust your instincts: If an appliance smells, sounds or functions strangely - be suspicious. This is a likely indicator to replace the problem appliance or at least have it inspected by a licensed technician.

4. Follow preventative maintenance measures: Lack ofpreventative maintenance is a contributing factor to some appliance malfunctions and fires. Simple ways to keep your appliances in peak performance include never overloading

the clothes washer; periodically removing debris from the dishwasher filter; and immediately unplugging the vacuum cleaner and dislodging items that should not have been picked up.

5. Look for safety certification: Safety certifications, such as the UL Mark, confirm a

product has been tested and certified to meet the highest standard in safety.

If you’re ready to buy a new home appliance, you should

start by researching available government and manufacturer

rebate programs in your area. Programs usually vary by state so

qualified appliances and rebate amounts will differ.

To learn more about 2010 state rebate programs,

and to find more tips on appliance safety, visit www.UL.com/appliancesafety

Avista Resort in North Myrtle Beach SCby Mirela Monte of Buyers Choice Realty

As if the blue Atlantic and white sand was not enough, Avista is also surrounded by both man made and nature’s bounty. To the North of it lays the most picturesque part of the beach, also known as “The Golden Mile of North Myrtle Beach”, Ocean Drive’s finest tenant, Tilghman Estates. With sprawling mansions and charming low country style homes set amidst oak and magnolia trees, you have to pinch yourself to see if you haven’t drifted into some movie induced la-la land.

To the South of it lays Main Street, the heart of North Myrtle Beach and the shagging capital of the World. Familiar names like “Fat Harold’s” and “The Spanish Galleon” beckon the passerby’s with its upbeat music and bucolic crowds. The fact that Avista is within a stone throw away, certainly doesn’t hurt its popularity with the revelers. Add to that the highest rating accorded to it by TripAdvisor.com, the iconoclast of travel, and you’ve got yourself a winner.

Whether you’re investing at the Beach, or just want to soak in the sun for a few days, there is no better place than Avista. With prices lower than they’ve been since pre-construction in 2005, now is the time to purchase a piece of this hugely popular resort.

There are currently 56 condos available for sale at Avista Resort in North Myrtle Beach.

The Quarterly absorption rate stands at 16.07%, almost double that of the local area condos, which stands at 8.96% for the quarter, concrete proof that Avista is one of the best Oceanfront Projects in the entire Myrtle Beach Area.

Avista has many different floor plans for the 1,2 and 3BR. condos. Some 1BR units have not one, but two balconies and a wall of glass to the living room. The 3BR corner units are the most exciting condos at the beach with panoramic views of the Atlantic from walls of glass and expansive balconies. The interior and exterior pools and lazy rivers make this a year round resort and a favorite with the tourists and investors alike.

On the beach, you can

live in bliss.

Prince Resortby Mirela Monte, Buyers Choice Realty

PRiNCE REsORT.

I never thought it could happen. I wasn’t happy about it when they started building it. I hated the idea of a concrete and steel building encumbering the tranquility of the Cherry Grove Pier, a legendary edifice treasured by all the fishermen. Then it happened: I fell in love with Prince Resort!

The project is simply gorgeous. The decor is ultra modern, South Beach Style. There are two towers, one oceanfront, the other one second row, with amazing views. Each tower has heated pools, Jacuzzi and lazy rivers, all of them outdoors. The second row tower has all the water features on the 9-th floor. Imagine the weird feeling sun tanning and swimming 9 floors above sea level. Yeah, it’s awesome!

The Cherry Grove Pier is attached to Prince Resort, so your husband can just wake up and go fishing. The kids can enjoy the pools downstairs, and you can watch all of them from your balcony. You can have lunch at the wonderful grill restaurant on the pier and dinner at the fancy, oceanfront restaurant within the Prince Resort. You can put a boat on the channels behind the Resort.

What I like best about Prince Resort: the tranquility and the amazing setting, along with the stunning building and modern decor. There is water EVERYWHERE. My favorite condo: the one bedroom corner units. They have so much bang for the dollar (I just sold one there for $ 155K). With amazing views from the wall of windows on both sides, they simply have no rivals (with the exception of the Baywatch corner units) when it comes to views.

See you at the Beach!

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Click To Listen While You Browse!

South Carolina’s Internet

Powered By

(843)720-9604 [email protected]

Crescent Keyes in North Myrtle Beach SC

by Mirela Monte of Buyers Choice Realty

This two year old Oceanfront Condo project located in the Crescent Beach Section of North Myrtle Beach, has all the views and amenities desired by a very selective Buyer.

With around 100 condos in the building, superb water amenities, indoor/outdoor pools and lazy rivers, in-building parking, storage, weight room and unobstructed views of the Atlantic, this is certainly worth looking at when shopping for a 3 bedroom oceanfront condo.

Now may be the perfect time to buy one. There are currently seven available 3BR/3BA units for sale priced between $456,900 to $559,900. There have been no sales of a 3BR

unit in the past 6 months (this is the paralysis period preceding a pricing plummet we’ve experienced in this area).

The HOA fees for a 3BR/3BA oceanfront unit are only $654 per month, and that includes the building insurance. That is remarkably low for such a large size unit (1,800sq.ft). By comparison, there are some 1BR/1BA oceanfront units with HOA fees in the $600’s.

The building is modern, the condos are spacious and they have superb views. Dollar for dollar this is a project you should consider before making a buying decision in the Myrtle Beach Area.

Roll on, deep and dark blue ocean, roll. Ten thousand fleets sweep over thee in

vain. Man marks the earth with ruin, but his control

stops with the shore

Baywatch Resort in North Myrtle Beach, SC

by Mirela Monte of Buyers Choice Realty

Baywatch is not just another TV Show. In the North Myrtle Beach area, Baywatch Resort is a prime example of Oceanfront Vacation Nirvana. With three nineteen-floor towers located right on the sand, over a dozen indoor/outdoor pools and lazy rivers, Baywatch rules over Crescent Beach.

Here you’ll find over 500 oceanfront condos with ample balconies overlooking the blue Atlantic, comfortable interiors, on site management, two restaurants, a couple of pool side bars and convention halls, making Baywatch Resort seem like a small city.

Located within 2-3minutes of Restaurant Row, Colonial Mall, Tanger Outlet Mall, Barefoot Landing, Alligator Adventure, Alabama Theater, the House of Blues and Kingston Plantation, Baywatch Resort is an ideal vacation destination.

If you are thinking of investing where you vacation, Baywatch is a perfect oceanfront investment opportunity. With prices starting at only $ 90,000 for a fully furnished condo, now is the time to jump in! Having sold a multitude of units in Baywatch, I can advise you of every opportunity extant here. Buy at the Beach! Life is short; live it well!

Here you’ll find over 500 oceanfront condos with ample balconies overlooking the blue Atlantic, comfortable interiors, on site management, two restaurants, a couple of pool side bars and convention halls, making Baywatch Resort seem like a small city.

Located within 2-3minutes of Restaurant Row, Colonial Mall, Tanger Outlet Mall, Barefoot Landing, Alligator Adventure, Alabama Theater, the House of Blues and Kingston Plantation, Baywatch Resort is an ideal vacation destination.

If you are thinking of investing where you vacation, Baywatch is a perfect oceanfront investment opportunity. With prices starting at only $ 90,000 for a fully furnished condo, now is the time to jump in! Having sold a multitude of units in Baywatch, I can advise you of every opportunity extant here. Buy at the Beach! Life is short; live it well!

In every outthrust

headland, in every curving

beach, in every grain of sand there is

the story of the earth

Fast fixes for foreclosed homes(ARA) - The high volume of foreclosed homes on the market is allowing some astute buyers to turn eyesores into eye-catching properties with only minimal investment. While not every property can be fixed up affordably, there are some common projects that dramatically improve a foreclosed home’s appeal and value.

“Many people are finding huge opportunities in fixing up foreclosures,” says Tom Sullivan, founder of Lumber Liquidators, the nation’s largest specialty retailer of hardwood flooring. “Most of these houses can be com-pletely transformed with just a few improvements. Often, the fixes are easy enough to be do-it-yourself projects.”

Here are some popular cost-effective options for breathing new life into a home in need.

Add new countertops.The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in any home, since it is a space where people spend a lot of time - from cooking dinner to entertaining friends. One of the most dramatic changes that can be made to a kitchen is adding new countertops. It alters the appearance of the space by changing the color scheme, depth and texture of the whole room.

Countertops range in price depending on room size, type of material and mode of installation. In an

average kitchen, a new laminate countertop starts at around $1,000, with granite or quartz ranging from $3,000 to $6,000. Butcher-block countertops are another attractive, yet cost-effective option. Williamsburg Butcher Block Company offers options in both maple and American cherry starting around $310.

replAce the bAthtub. Foreclosed houses frequently come with water stains left by standing water in sinks, toilets and bathtubs. Updating a bathroom by installing a new bathtub not only removes the problem, but, because the tub is a core item, it creates a more pleasant feeling in the room. Bathtubs are available in many different styles and sizes, so there is likely to be one that suits any taste, from traditional to contemporary. Bathtubs start at around $300, depending on the size and style.

trAde cArpeting for new wood flooring.Foreclosed houses are frequently abandoned with soiled carpet that continues to gather buildup over time. Mold is also common in homes that have been left bare for extended periods. To get rid of hidden odors, allergens, irritants and mold, replace carpet

with wood, particularly in high-traffic areas such as living rooms and great rooms.

In addition to reviving these common areas, swapping carpet for wood adds style and creates a more spacious feel. The choice of wood can also make a big difference. Light wood colors can make a room appear larger, medium-toned woods can make a room appear more traditional and dark flooring can make a room appear warmer.

“The introduction of so many new species, colors and types of wood flooring in recent years gives homeowners a lot of options when renovating a room at different price points,” says Sullivan.

Laminate flooring can deliver the appearance of solid hardwoods, but costs less than $1 per square foot at places like Lumber Liquidators. This allows budget do-it-yourselfers the ability to transform a 400-square-foot area for as little as $750.

In addition to making a foreclosed home look new again, completing these easy and affordable updates can go a long way in restoring the value of the property when it comes time to sell.

Eternity begins and ends with the ocean’s tides.

Spring decoratingfive savvy home decorating tips eco-style

(ARA) - As spring rounds the corner, so does the desire to lighten the mood in life and home. Whether you choose to de-clutter or add a splash of spring color, simple eco-friendly changes to homedecor set the tone for a much lighter, and brighter, season.

Follow these five tips to affordable eco-friendly home decorating.

Let color lift the mood Color has long been credited for its mood-changing qualities. “Color really makes things more upbeat and changes the energy in a space,” says Mary Ann Thornam, interior design academic department chair at The Art Institute of Colorado.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accredited professional-certified designer and instructor from Miami International University of Art & Design, Jorge A. Pernas, suggests not just going out and buying any old type of paint, but “request to see their line of Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) free products - they are very eco-friendly; these paints don’t emit any toxic fumes and are completely odorless, making it possible to literally paint a bedroom and be able to sleep in it that same evening.”

Lighten the landscape, lighten the mood Lighting is another simple, affordable and eco-friendly way of sprucing up the home. Pernas suggests converting all task lighting to compact fluorescent bulbs. The reduction in energy consumption translates into a lower monthly bill and an overall reduction in your carbon footprint.

You’ve heard of feng shui. Furniture placement plays a major role in the ergonomic quality of your living space. Developing a more flexible floor plan by angling and shifting pieces can often help give the area the appearance of more space - making it feel less cluttered.

Another easy way to update the overall look of a room is by replacing curtains/tapestries, slipcovers and bedding with organic sheets and materials, giving the space an updated look that is both affordable and eco-friendly.

Delight in de-clutteringWith the new season comes the inspiration to cleanse and purge items that you no longer need. Replace heavier accent objects, such as ceramics, with lighter pieces, like baskets. Reposition artwork and add mirrors whenever possible as they open up a room and give the illusion of more space. Of course, when in doubt, recycle it out.

Shop and swapAs the focus on sustainability becomes more widespread, so do your options for eco-friendly products that do not deplete the earth or your pocketbook. Some options include swapping with a group of friends to changing out items that no longer fit your space, or shopping in thrift stores and consignment shops. Of course, when those options won’t do, Pernas suggests purchasing eco-friendly, simple selections such as bamboo rugs, organic cotton sheets or recycled glass.

Bring the outside in With spring comes the urge to open windows and breathe in the fresh air. Bring the natural goodness of the outside into your home with the addition of potted flowers and plants or window boxes.

Visit the local farmers market to find your favorite plants or flowers and place them in locations where you spend time daily. Vegetation not only adds oxygen, but also brightens the backdrop.

The key to savvy decorating is not overpowering the existing elements. “Small changes can make a dramatic difference in the personality of a room,” says Thornam. To learn more about The Art Institutes schools, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/nz.

The Sea, once it casts

its spell, holds one in its net

of wonder forever.

Time To reFinance or Buy !?Right now, mortgage rates are at their lowest level since 1971. Think about that. Twenty-five years ago, homeowners were paying as much as 18% on a 30-year fixed. Today it’s just a little over 5%.Combine that

rate with the tax advantages of a mortgage, and you have an incredibly cheap way to build wealth, but you better act now.

Real estate guru Barbara Corcoran has already seen a tremendous surge in refinance applications – more than triple the average – and the number of people getting approved is astronomically higher as well, she says. But that doesn’t mean the low rates are a panacea for the ills of the housing market. It is only once home prices start to go up that we will finally see a light at the end of tunnel, Corcoran says. Until that happens, we are still going to have to crawl out of this mess. “[Low interest rates are] a not a lifesaver,” Corcoran says. “This is just a helping hand.”

David Kittle, chairman of the Mortgage Bankers Association, has this advice to homeowners looking to refinance: Do it. Don’t get greedy searching for another quarter-point. Lock in rates now. He is seeing applications soar over 125% just since Thanksgiving due to the low rates.

Of course, you should only refinance if it saves you at least 3/8 on the rate and if you plan on staying in your home for at least four years, Kittle says. Along with good credit, proof of income and money by means of a down payment or equity in the home, there are certain things every homeowner needs regardless of interest rate levels.

www.CherryGrove.sc Online Magazine | 2009 40

Our memories of the ocean will linger on, long after our

footprints in the sand are gone.

Outdoor trips for the whole family to love(ARA) - As your children grow older, it can be difficult finding fun family vacations for everyone to enjoy together. Here are some tips to get out and have a pleasurable family vacation:

1. Go camping. Find a campground near scenic hiking trails, cool and refreshing lakes, or even extended ATV trails. This is a fantastic trip idea for the entire family, especially if each of you has different ideas about what you want to do on your vacation. For example, you can do some bird watching while your son attempts to cast for dinner. And your spouse might enjoy reading a book in a hammock strung between two trees while your

daughter chases fish through the lake using her snorkel and fins.

2. Travel back in time. Turn the vacation into a history learning experience by exploring the Old West, walking the streets of America’s founding cities or designing a road trip along the Mississippi River and popping into the small river towns teeming with river history. Educational vacations don’t have to be boring - many communities in historical settings offer live recreations of the event or events, and if your children happen to be studying that era in school, it’s an even better experience.

3. Take an off-road trip in the wide-open spaces with the Polaris RANGER RZR 4, a sporty, multi-passenger side-by-side vehicle that can handle dunes, desert sands and wide-open spaces with ease. The bonus is this vehicle seats four, which means your family saves money on renting or purchasing multiple off-road vehicles. ATV and side-by-side trails allow your family to travel great distances off the main roads, giving you the opportunity to see new geography and potentially different wildlife which you wouldn’t be able to see from your car on the highway.

4. Visit one or several of the national parks stretching from coast to coast. You can take in the Atlantic Ocean from the cliffs of Maine in Acadia National Park, rare and endangered species in the waters of Everglades National Park, pretend you’re part of the explorers following the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail that stretches through 11 states over mountains, through rivers, across prairies and all the way to the Pacific coast, or admire the

architecture of more than 600 cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloans in Mesa Verde National Park. That’s just to name a few of the hundreds of parks you can explore.

5. Organize an extended scenic drive. Plan a trip around one of the great lakes, or through a mountain range or even across the expanse of a desert. Research some of the small towns along the route for new and interesting things to see. Try out new restaurants and ask the locals what some of the more popular dishes are. If you are on your trip during the harvest time, stop by a roadside stand and make a picnic or a tailgate party out of the fresh produce that’s available.

When planning your next family vacation, make sure you pack plenty of food and beverages, as well as your camera. Encourage the kids to take along journals so they can document the sights they see and the new places they are experiencing. But most of all, enjoy the time spent together on vacation.

My life is like a stroll on

the beach...as near to the edge

as I can go.

Tips for increasing your truck’s gas mileage

(ARA) - With the high cost of fuel, many pickup owners are feeling the burn at the pump. While some consumers may be able to purchase a new truck that gets better gas mileage, many of us are financially stuck with the truck we currently have. To cope, there are several things you can do to save gas money now.

Oil it up: As most auto body technicians will tell you, checking and changing your oil is one of the most overlooked items. Clean oil reduces wear caused by friction between moving parts and removes harmful substances from the engine, ensuring your engine will run at peak performance. And don’t forget to keep it clean. You can increase your gas mileage up to 10 percent by ensuring your oil, air and fuel filters are clean.

Fill it up: Fill up with the lowest octane gasoline possible for your vehicle. That pricey premium fuel won’t boost your truck’s fuel economy or performance. Passing on pricey premium gasoline

could save you hundreds of dollars a year, according to the Car Care Council. The council also suggests tightening your gas cap because fuel will evaporate from your tank if it has an escape. Loose, missing or damaged gas caps cause 147 million gallons of gas to evaporate each year, according to the Car Care Council. So be sure to tighten up that gas cap each time you fill up.

Pump it up: Check your tires to make sure they’re properly inflated and aligned. Proper inflation can improve gas mileage up to 3 percent. If you don’t know what the right pressure is for your tires and truck, consult your owner’s manual or stop in at your local tire shop.

Ease on up: It’s hard to make changes, but if you really want to see increased gas mileage, it’s suggested you avoid unnecessary idling, revving your engine and slamming on the brakes. It is recommended that you stop and start gently, use

cruise control when possible and reduce the amount of trips you make each day.

Roll on down the road: The easiest and most rewarding step you can take to see immediate gas mileage improvement is to install a truck bed cover on your pickup. A truck bed cover, also known as a tonneau cover, will reduce drag, making your vehicle more aerodynamic at high speeds. There are several different tonneau cover options available on the market today.

The Access Roll-Up Cover, manufactured by Agri-Cover, Inc., a North Dakota truck accessory company, is an affordable and high-quality option. Made of heavy-duty, double coated vinyl, the roll-up cover installs quickly and easily with a clamp-on installation and is designed specifically to fit your truck. Since the roll-up cover is lockable, it’s also great for protecting your gear, all while improving the overall look of your vehicle. When not in use, the cover can be rolled up behind the cab and

never has to be removed when hauling larger items. The company estimates that you can save over $200 within the first year of installing an Access Roll-Up Cover on your truck bed.

Richard F. of Bismarck, N.D, knows firsthand the benefits of having a roll-up tonneau cover on his truck.

“I put on many highway miles during the year and in talking to other owners with a similar truck without a box cover, I am amazed at the savings in gas mileage I’m getting with my cover. The Access Roll-Up Cover is such an attractive addition to my truck. It really finishes the look I want.”

For more information on the Access Roll-Up Cover and to find out how much gas money you could save, visit www.accesscover.com or call (888) 281-7098.

Get Your Carolina

Girl Gear!

Easy ways for moms to save time and money

(ARA) - A mom is always walking a fine line between trying to provide her family with everything they need, while at the same time balancing a budget and saving money for the unexpected surprises life can throw at her.

Yes, life can get busy with running errands, shuttling children and taking care of the household chores. Here are some tips that you can use as a smart mom to save time and money.

1. Go on a treasure hunt at garage sales and estate auctions with your children. This is a great opportunity if you are redecorating a room, or looking to replace household items. Create a “scavenger hunt” list of what you wish for, and scour the sales, looking for the best deals. If you save money on curtains, home accessories, furniture or toys, everyone wins.

2. As a busy mom with three girls, Anna Teoli found shopping online was the easiest way for her to save time.

“I always looked for the best deals, and for some reason, I always felt that if I searched more, I would find an even better deal,” Teoli says. “One day it just hit me, why not gather all that information myself and let everyone know - all the best bargains and deals, online coupon codes, in-store coupons and all the ways to save more money.”

Teoli started the MommySavesBig blog in 2007 and now MommySavesBig.com has all the coupon codes, deals and in-store coupons for popular stores a mom needs to keep her budget and family happy at the same time.

3. Before shopping at a favorite storeonline, join the company’s newsletter. Not only will the company give you the latest product and services information, but within 48 hours they usually will e-mail you a coupon.

4. Compare prices with a little research. This is very important when you are shopping for more expensive items. Use the Internet

to research the products available, compare prices for the product you want at different stores, and also search for available discounts or coupons. Don’t be in a hurry to buy, because you will always save more money by doing your homework.

5. Ask for discounts. Some stores accept printable coupons. Other stores accept expired coupons or competitor coupons. It doesn’t hurt to ask if you can get a discount, and there is nothing wrong with try-ing to save money, especially in these hard times.

Moms work long hours and are always trying to make ends meet, says Teoli.

“In today’s world, having everything is not enough, we always want more,” she says. “Therefore, shopping and spending my money wisely simply makes me feel better and

MommySavesBig helps me achieve that goal.”

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About SummervillesOuTh CaROliNa

Summerville SC features year round activities and promotions. Enjoy unique shops and dining experiences that will grab your attention and satisfy your taste buds.

Downtown Summerville is well known for its heritage and natural beauty. The close knit community still gathers at Town Square for the 4th of July celebrations. Friday night local high school football attracts a spirited, overflowing crowd cheering on friends, family and favorite teams. In early December, the holiday season is unveiled in when town folks meet at Town Square for the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting when thousands of white lights are turned on to brighten the downtown district and bring holiday cheer to the town.

Summerville... great restaurants, charming shops, outdoor recreation, and historic sites... the amenities are endless! In Downtown Summerville, you will find a warm and welcoming community filled with great respect for its past and dedication to its future.

Summerville, South Carolina is located 24 miles outside of Charleston, making it a close day trip location to add to your itinerary. Unique shopping and dining businesses add to Summerville’s charm, and you’ll be pleased with the diversity of. Southern charm and historic flavor makes Summerville and Dorchester County a ‘must-see’ destination.

Summerville is host to several exclusive events, like Sculpture in the South, the Flower-town Festival, and Taste of the Town – all held in beautiful Azalea Park, a 12-acre oasis in the heart of town with peaceful ponds, paths, fountains, tennis courts, and an aston-ishing collection of permanent sculpture.

With more than 700 homes and buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, Summerville is famed for its historic character. Enjoy and experience the kind of charm and hospitality one expects from a pleasant, small Southern town with “big” charm -- a town like Summerville, South Carolina.

www.CherryGrove.sc Online Magazine | 2009 54

Fin

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s I dropped a tear in the ocean, and whenever they find it

I’ll stop loving you, only then.

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