GRAND ISSUE 665 NOV. 2008 strander THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com Join us at this year’s President’s Gala as we celebrate the Ashby Ward Pioneer of the Year, Thomas “Tom” J. Rogers, and Citizen of the Year, Wayne Gray. This premier black-tie optional event will be held Nov. 20 from 7-10 p.m. at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club. There will be heavy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and entertainment by the Long Bay Symphony Jazz trio and U & I. This illustrious event is sponsored by the Myrtle Beach Herald. The cost to attend is $80 per person; $150 per couple. Register at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com. Registration deadline is Nov. 17. President’s GAlA to honor two outstanding citizens WHAT’S INSIDE sMAll BUsiness BUdGet Advertising the co-op way through local media. 4 leGislAtiVe lUnCHeOn Come out and meet your state representatives. 8 FOr tHe reCOrd 12 Read about the chamber’s first quarter activities. gssCene Sponsors help make a vision a reality. 19 Myrtle Beach area businesses and individuals were recognized for outstanding community service, business excellence and customer relations during the 2008 annual membership meeting held Oct. 29 at the Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel. The day started off with a new networking event, Coffee N’ Contacts, sponsored by Nexsen Pruet LLC. Members enjoyed a cup of coffee and handing out business cards. The crowd then flowed into the opening session where they were entertained by best-selling author and political consultant Frank Luntz. Master of the political message, Luntz shared his fascination with the use of language and gave the audience an inside look into today’s politics. Don Schunk followed Luntz with his Grand Strand economic forecast. The morning continued with three educational breakout sessions: consultant, author and marketing expert Bill Geist presented a Tourism Marketing Update. This session was sponsored by Pace Communications. Motivator and professional speaker Byron Carroll offered insight on Leadership and Teamwork, and Lisa Haddad with sponsor BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, talked about Health Care Trends. The luncheon and awards program, sponsored by the Myrtle Beach Herald, kicked off at noon. Steve Chapman, immediate past chairman of the board of directors, welcomed the audience and presented the chamber’s 2007-2008 accomplishments, including the two-for-one matching grant of $5 million for destination-specific marketing; expanding the chamber’s festivals and special events; increasing presence in the business community by providing work force developmental seminars through Chamber Academy; forming a Young Professionals Council and young professionals networking group (gsSCENE); and reminiscing about the highly successful presidential primary debates. CHAMBer presents 2008 business awards Annual Meeting, see Page 14 President’s Gala, see Page 14
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Grand Issue 665 NOV. 2008strander
T h e O f f i c i a l N e w s l e T T e r O f T h e M y r t l e B e a c h a r e a c h a M B e r o f c o M M e r c e
M y r t l e B e a c h A r e a C h a m b e r . c o m
Join us at this year’s President’s Gala as we celebrate the Ashby Ward Pioneer of the Year, Thomas “Tom” J. Rogers, and Citizen of the Year, Wayne Gray.This premier black-tie optional event will be held Nov. 20 from 7-10 p.m. at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club. There will be heavy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and entertainment by the Long Bay Symphony Jazz trio and U & I. This illustrious event is sponsored by the Myrtle Beach Herald.
The cost to attend is $80 per person; $150 per couple. Register at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com. Registration deadline is Nov. 17.
President’s GAlAto honor two outstanding citizens
What’s inside
sMAll BUsiness BUdGetAdvertising the co-op way through local media.
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leGislAtiVe lUnCHeOn Come out and meet your state representatives.
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FOr tHe reCOrd12Read about the chamber’s first quarter activities.
gssCeneSponsors help make a vision a reality.
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Myrtle Beach area businesses and individuals were recognized for outstanding community service, business excellence and customer relations during the 2008 annual membership meeting held Oct. 29 at the Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel.The day started off with a new networking event, Coffee N’ Contacts, sponsored by Nexsen Pruet LLC. Members enjoyed a cup of coffee and handing out business cards. The crowd then flowed into the opening session where they were entertained by best-selling author and political consultant Frank Luntz. Master of the political message, Luntz shared his fascination with the use of language and gave the audience an inside look into today’s politics. Don Schunk followed Luntz with his Grand Strand economic forecast.
The morning continued with three educational breakout sessions: consultant, author and marketing expert Bill Geist presented a Tourism Marketing Update. This session was
sponsored by Pace Communications. Motivator and professional speaker Byron Carroll offered insight on Leadership and Teamwork, and Lisa Haddad with sponsor BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, talked about Health Care Trends.
The luncheon and awards program, sponsored by the Myrtle Beach Herald, kicked off at noon. Steve Chapman, immediate past chairman of the board of directors, welcomed the audience and presented the chamber’s 2007-2008 accomplishments, including the two-for-one matching grant of $5 million for destination-specific marketing; expanding the chamber’s festivals and special events; increasing presence in the business community by providing work force developmental seminars through Chamber Academy; forming a Young Professionals Council and young professionals networking group (gsSCENE); and reminiscing about the highly successful presidential primary debates.
CHAMBer presents 2008 business awards
Annual Meeting, see Page 14
President’s Gala, see Page 14
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Grand stranderBOArd OF direCtOrsChairman of the Board
Brant BranhamE. F. Hucks & Associates, Inc.
Immediate Past ChairmanSteve Chapman
Island Vista
Advertising/Publicity Committee ChairRoss Martin
Coral Beach Resort Vice Chairs
Woody Crosby Jordan Properties
Phil VassarDayton House Resort
Business Ethics & Standards Committee ChairFrans Mustert
Oceana ResortsVice Chairs
Debbie HarwellAdobe Palm Communications
Phil VassarDayton House Resort
Convention Bureau Committee ChairBob Barenberg
Kingston PlantationVice Chair
Charlie BradshawAlabama Theatre
Finance Review Committee Chair/TreasurerMyers Rollins
Waccamaw Regional Transportation AuthorityVice Chair
David DuRant Prestwick Country Club
Fulfillment Committee ChairChris Shroff
Shroff PropertiesVice Chairs
Jason AndersonAnderson Properties
Nate AndersonDivine Dining Group
Frans Mustert Oceana Resorts
Legislative Policy Council ChairFranklin Daniels
Nexsen Pruet, LLCVice Chair
Buzz FreemanConway National Bank
Membership Committee ChairTony Cox
Burroughs & Chapin Co., Inc. Vice Chairs
Debbie HarwellAdobe Palm Communications
Berkley White Classic Homes
North Strand Council ChairRick Elliott
Elliott Realty
Small Business Council ChairSteve Kahn
FSA-Full Steam Ahead, Inc. Vice Chair
Wayne MorrisThe Printing Port
South Strand Council ChairElaine Carter
Wendy’s/Palmetto Restaurant Group
Technology-Based Marketing Committee ChairRyan Swaim
Dunes Beach & Golf VacationsVice Chair
Will McIntoshIntellistrand
Young Professionals Council ChairSara Boling
CENTURY 21 Boling & Associates, Inc.
Be A stArThis month’s spotlight is on Marissa Mazza and Mirage Hair Studio. Find your next hair style at Mirage Hair Studio. Read all about them in the Grand Strander Online.
MeMBer AnniVersAriesWhat’s the secret to long-term success in the Myrtle Beach area business community? Establishing lasting and personal relationships with other professionals. What’s the most effective way to do that? Membership in the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. During November, 121 members will be celebrating their chamber anniversaries. Discover which business has been a chamber member for 28 years.
BeneFit OF tHe MOntHThe Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce business directory is offered as a free resource for the local community and visitors to the area. It is the community’s guide to chamber members and the products and services that they offer. Your business receives five free listings in the online business directory with a link to your company’s
Web site and e-mail address. Don’t miss out on this chamber benefit – check out the Grand Strander online to learn more.
riBBOn CUttinGs
Brooks Brothers–Market Common, along with three other members, recently celebrated ribbon-cutting ceremonies. Check out all the photos in the Grand Strander Online.
sMAll BUsiness AdMinistrAtiOn AwArds
Competition is underway for the 2009 Small Business Awards presented by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has many successful small businesses with great stories to tell. Share your story by submitting your nomination. Nominations must be sent to the SBA South Carolina district office by Nov. 14, 2008.
sBA awards include: • Small Business Person • Jeffrey Butland Family Owned Business • Minority Small Business Champion • Financial Services Champion• Home-Based Business Champion• Small Business Journalist• Veteran Small Business Champion• Women in Business Champion
learn More: For a full list of all award categories, see the 2009 nomination guidelines at sba.gov/sc under the Spotlight heading.
MARK YOUR CALENDARThe 2009 Job Expo is slated for March 11 at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, Exhibit Hall B. The 15th annual event is presented by the Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association, in coordination with the South Carolina Employment Security Commission, Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments, Horry County Department of Social Services, The Coast RTA, Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority, Coastal Carolina University, and Horry-Georgetown Technical College.
wHAt’s Online search
For quick access to all of the great features mentioned below, just go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click on Grand Strander at the top of the page. You’ll find all these stories only in the November Grand Strander Online.
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com Grand Strander Online
Special eventS
educationprogramS
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marketing StrategieS
memBerreSourceS
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United States Postal ServiceStatement of Ownership, Management and Circulation
Publication Title: Grand StranderPublication Number: 124-490Number of Issues Published Annually: 32,400Annual Subscription Price: Free
Extent and Nature of Circulation
Average No. Copies Each Issue Preceding 12 Months
No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date
Total Number of Copies (Net Press Run) 2,700 2,700
Paid/Requested Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541
2,200 2,200
Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation
2,200 2,200
Total Distribution 2,200 2,200Copies not Distributed 500 500Total 2,700 2,700
Discover more networking events at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
nov. 25 8:30 a.m. CHAMBer ACCess
MBACC Boardroom, 1200 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach
Are you a new member of the chamber? Are you new at your company? Or perhaps you are a longstanding member that needs an update on all your benefits. Then make plans to attend the next Chamber Access at your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. Here’s your chance to meet chamber staff, introduce your business/organization, and familiarize yourself with the many benefits your chamber has to offer. Learn how to take advantage of your membership through Chamber Access – your entry pass to member benefits.
Free, value-added benefit of chamber membership. Register at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Business Connections.
Questions? Call (843) 916-7225
Registration Deadline: Nov. 24
AdVertise in thechamber newsletterIf you’re looking for a reasonable way to spread the word about your business, advertising in the Grand Strander is the way to go. The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce distributes approximately 2,500 copies to key contacts within member companies and organizations as well as elected officials. Each issue of the Grand Strander is placed on the chamber Web site at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com for viewing and downloading as a PDF.
spend a little, reach a lotFor as low as $200 a month, you’ll increase your visibility and brand recognition. There’s a price and an ad size (1/4 page to full page) for all members.
Contact Scott Head, advertising sales manager, (843) 916-7277 or [email protected] for more information and to reserve your ad space today.
Chamber Access gains you entry to all your member benefits – it’s the total access pass. This informative orientation program is for new chamber members, new employees at chamber member businesses, and longstanding members that need an update on all their benefits. Here’s your chance to meet chamber staff, introduce your business/organization, and familiarize yourself with the many benefits your chamber has to offer. Join us at the Nov. 25 gathering and discover the key to getting the most out of chamber membership. The following members attended the September member orientation reception.
Front Row (L to R): Liz Taylor, Harry & David #569; Rachel Ou, China Dragon Second Row (L to R): Ron Adams, McDowell Construction; Janet Brown, Coastal Realty Consultants Back Row (L to R): JD Redmon, Blue Lightning Media; Joel Foster, Coastal Carolina National Bank
Thanks to BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolinafor providing refreshments for the reception.
CHAMBer Access
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Grand strander
11.20serIes tOPiC Presented By dAte/tiMe COst siGn UP By
Business Series From Lacking to Lucrative: Tips and Features of Thriving Web Sites
Mona McGraw,NuRelm Inc. Nov. 20 • 9-11 a.m. $10 members
$40 nonmembers 11/19
desCriPtiOn: Do you know what it takes to make a good Web site great? Discover the secrets of how cutting-edge business professionals maintain successful Web sites. Experts will reveal tips that can maximize Web site design, content and search engine optimization.
CHAMBer Academy sPOnsOred By
The Chamber Academy is sponsored by the Myrtle Beach Herald. Classes are held in the boardroom (unless otherwise noted) at the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, 1200 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach. Register at ChamberAcademy.com. Payment due at time of registration. No refunds or rescheduling. To learn more, contact Blakely Jenkins, education and small business programs manager, [email protected] or (843) 916-7232.
register for classes at ChamberAcademy.com
Myrtle BeACH Area Chamber of Commerce Small Business AdvantageOn Nov. 10, 2008, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce will be rolling out the Small Business Advantage with “Big Advertising on a Small Business Budget: The Co-op Way.” The MBACC Small Business Advantage is for all chamber members that are small businesses, meaning with 50 or fewer employees. The MBACC Small Business Advantage is an advertising cooperative campaign aimed at giving small business chamber members advertising opportunities to fit their budgets.
Small business members are invited to attend the Nov. 10 event at the Crown Reef Resort from 4-7 p.m. Starting at 4 p.m., local advertising agencies will give a brief overview of the main media outlets: print magazine, print newspaper, television, outdoor, radio, Internet and direct mail. Afterward from 5-7 p.m., the evening will move into a reception where all the participating media outlets will have booths and information to give businesses regarding their advertising opportunities. The following media will be participating: Myrtle Beach Herald, The Sun News, NextMedia, Easy 105.9, Movin 94.5, WBTW News 13, WMBF News, WPDE TV-15, Time Warner Cable and WFXB FOX TV.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to advertise in a big way on a small budget. You must be a small business to participate in the cooperative. Register online at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com. For more information, contact Blakely Jenkins, education and small business programs manager, at (843) 916-7232 or [email protected].
11.06serIes tOPiC Presented By dAte/tiMe COst siGn UP By
Technology Series PowerPoint Training Horry-Georgetown Technical College Nov. 6 • 10 a.m-12 p.m. $25 members
$45 nonmembers 11/05
desCriPtiOn: Dazzles your clients with your excellent PowerPoint presentations! This class will not only review basic skills but will show you how to create colorful, dynamic presentations using graphics, design options and movement. Bring your own jump disk if you would like to keep your created presentation. lOCAtiOn: Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s Conference Center located at the former Air Force Base. From Highway 17 Bypass, turn at Highway 707 into the back gate. Travel approximately two miles then turn right on Meyers Street. The Conference Center is the bulding on the left at the end of Meyers. The class will be in Room 603.
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11.20serIes tOPiC Presented By dAte/tiMe COst siGn UP By
Business Series From Lacking to Lucrative: Tips and Features of Thriving Web Sites
Mona McGraw,NuRelm Inc. Nov. 20 • 9-11 a.m. $10 members
$40 nonmembers 11/19
desCriPtiOn: Do you know what it takes to make a good Web site great? Discover the secrets of how cutting-edge business professionals maintain successful Web sites. Experts will reveal tips that can maximize Web site design, content and search engine optimization.
CHAMBer Academy MBACC AnnOUnCesVolunteer of the Year, Chairman’s Choice award The winners of the 2008 Volunteer of the Year award and 2008 Chairman’s Choice award were announced during the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Volunteer Celebration held Sept. 30 at the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes. More than 225 guests attended.
Shannon Camp, a systems and information analyst with The Jackson Companies, received the MBACC 2008 Volunteer of the Year award. Camp chairs the Leadership Grand Strand board of regents and serves on the steering committee of gsSCENE, the chamber’s young professionals group. With her leadership and assistance, gsSCENE now has more than 375 members.
Volunteer of the year, see Page 6
Shannon Camp (left) attends the 2008 Volunteer Celebration with her mother, Teresa Camp. Shannon Camp was honored as Volunteer of the Year for her active roles with Leadership Grand Strand and gsSCENE.
1. North Carolina 2. South Carolina3. New York 4. Ohio5. Pennsylvania
sePteMBer 2008Top FiveRelocation States
11.06serIes tOPiC Presented By dAte/tiMe COst siGn UP By
Technology Series PowerPoint Training Horry-Georgetown Technical College Nov. 6 • 10 a.m-12 p.m. $25 members
$45 nonmembers 11/05
desCriPtiOn: Dazzles your clients with your excellent PowerPoint presentations! This class will not only review basic skills but will show you how to create colorful, dynamic presentations using graphics, design options and movement. Bring your own jump disk if you would like to keep your created presentation. lOCAtiOn: Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s Conference Center located at the former Air Force Base. From Highway 17 Bypass, turn at Highway 707 into the back gate. Travel approximately two miles then turn right on Meyers Street. The Conference Center is the bulding on the left at the end of Meyers. The class will be in Room 603.
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Grand stranderVolunteer of the year, From Page 6
New this year, the chamber’s former board chairs created the 2008 Chairman’s Choice award to recognize an organization for its countless contributions to the MBACC. Horry Telephone Cooperative Inc. was selected for its vital communications role during the January presidential primary debates. Throughout the process, HTC provided communications assistance with phone service, Internet broadband connectivity, consulting services and project management needs. The organization’s dedication was instrumental to the national and international publicity the community garnered from the debates.
HTC is definitely a huge supporter of the MBACC provides enormous contributions to the business community. HTC supports the chamber’s visitor call center and provides Internet broadcast of the Beach Ball Classic allowing free publicity of the chamber’s commercials to be viewed by thousands.
In addition, the event paid tribute to Steve Chapman, 2007-2008 chamber board chairman and managing partner of Island Vista. Chapman, who completed his term June 30, 2008, has been serving on the board of directors for five years and is credited with a number of accomplishments: hosting two presidential primary debates, moving closer to making Interstate 73 a reality and his leadership on the two-for-one tourism marketing cooperative initiative.
Brant Branham, 2008-2009 board chairman and consultant with E. F. Hucks & Associates Inc., presented the awards. “Without our hundreds of volunteers, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce would not be able to effectively promote, protect and improve the business community and serve our more than 2,400 members,” Branham said.
Brent Groome accepts the Chairman’s Choice award on behalf of HTC. The company was recognized for its vital communications role during the January presidential primary debates.
Steve Chapman was applauded for a number of accomplishments during his tenure as 2007-2008 MBACC board chairman, including his leadership on the two-for-one tourism marketing cooperative initiative.
GrAnd strAnd partners making newsby Kimberly Miles, public relations manager
According to Tennis Life Magazine (Circulation 135,000) there’s so much more to do than just tennis in Myrtle Beach. The August 2008 issue featured Myrtle Beach in a four-page article with photos and mentions Hard Rock Park, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, The Market Common, Tommy Bahamas, Orvis, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Travinia Italian Kitchen, Kingston Plantation, Embassy Suites Myrtle Beach Hotel, Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort, Wachesaw Plantation, Divine Fish House, Brookgreen Gardens, Ocean Creek Resort, Marina Inn at Grand Dunes, Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort and Spa, and Family Kingdom.
On the opening day of the Olympics Aug. 8, 2008, “The Today Show” and NBC’s “Nightly News With Brian Williams” recognized WMBF News Myrtle Beach as their new affiliate station.
Cokie Roberts on Aug. 10 during ABC’s “This Week With George Stephanopoulos” suggested that Sen. Barack Obama should be vacationing in Myrtle Beach instead of Hawaii. On Aug. 12, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber challenged both Sens. Barack Obama and John McCain to take a pre-election vacation and compete for a green jacket in the Masters National ProMiniGolf Championship in Myrtle Beach (Oct. 16-19). The story was picked up in several media
Partners Making news, see Page 20
Pr Hotspot FrOm My Desk
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Pr Hotspot FrOm My Desk
November already? How fast the time flies! 2008 is almost over and what a year it’s been. The holidays are approaching and soon we’ll be celebrating Thanksgiving. Since 2008 has been such a memorable year, it is appropriate to take a moment to give thanks for some noteworthy accomplishments. In fact, here are Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce’s top 10 reasons to be thankful this holiday season:
10. Chamber AcademyWe continue to increase our presence in the business community by providing work force developmental seminars through Chamber Academy for members.
9. 2008 Marketing CampaignWe expanded our destination promotion through an $18 million multimedia marketing campaign utilizing print, online, radio, TV and outdoor advertising. This campaign was made possible by securing the largest investment ever in Grand Strand destination promotion by our members and also by the state of South Carolina.
8. travel Channel’s “samantha Brown: Passport to Great weekends” Samantha hit the beach, bike trails and amusement parks and taped an episode on the Grand Strand which aired four times in 2008 to an estimated audience of more than 2 million.
7. gssCeneThe hottest young professionals group in the South, gsSCENE, continues its whirlwind of events including promoting community service, education
and networking. The seven month old group already boasts more than 375 members.
6. Hurricane FreeWe enjoyed a summer of great weather with no direct hits from a hurricane.
5. 47th Annual Canadian-American days Festival, 55th Annual Grand strand Fishing rodeo, 57th Annual sun Fun Festival and 3rd Annual Beach, Boogie & BBQ FestivalYear after year, thanks to loyal visitors and our locals too, these chamber-sponsored festivals stand the test of time and continue to draw enthusiastic festival fans.
4. i-73 reaches Major MilestoneFederal officials signed the Record of Decision meaning South Carolina can move forward with construction. Let the building begin!
3. 70 years of successThe Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 70th birthday. Our longevity is due to the support of our members and the community. 2. Presidential debates & Mt. Myrtle In an unprecedented move, both political parties chose to hold their South Carolina debates in Myrtle Beach. Serving as the local host and sponsor, the MBACC welcomed a Republican presidential primary debate (South Carolina Republican Party Presidential Candidates Debate) and a Democratic presidential primary debate (Congressional Black Caucus Institute Democratic Primary Presidential Debate) in January.
These debates attracted thousands of attendees, hundreds of media and worldwide attention. Two gigantic sand sculptures of the presidential candidates and a third of South Carolina native and host of a popular TV show on Comedy Central, Stephen Colbert, put Myrtle Beach in the national spotlight. Overall publicity for the debates and sand sculptures exceeded a $12 million advertising value.
1. youThe strength of the chamber is not in any one program, division or department. It’s not limited to the dedication of our volunteers, the vision of our board of directors or the work of our stellar staff. The strength of the chamber comes from you, our members. Truly, we have much to be thankful for in 2008. While this year was filled with many challenges, the Grand Strand is well-positioned for great things to come. On behalf of the staff and board of directors of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, Thank You for Your Support!
MUCH to be thankful for
Brad DeanPresident & CEO
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11.11.08 TOURISM MARKETING SUMMIT 8:30 a.m.- 12 p.m.Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort10,000 Beach Club Dr., Myrtle Beach
desCriPtiOn: Join us for a continental breakfast from 8:30-9 a.m. and a tourism marketing session from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Presentations feature consultant, author and marketing expert Bill Geist discussing Web marketing, along with chamber staff, Brandon Advertising & Public Relations and S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism. The event is free, however, please register at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Special Events.
11.20.08 PRESIDENT’S GALA 7-10 p.m. Dunes Golf & Beach Club9000 N. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach
desCriPtiOn: Two remarkable community leaders will be honored at the 2008 President’s Gala. This premier black-tie optional event celebrates Wayne Gray as Citizen of the Year and Tom Rogers as Pioneer of the Year. Cost: $80 per person; $150 per couple. Registration deadline: Nov. 17. To register, visit the chamber’s Web site at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
02.04.09 GRAND STRAND LEGISLATIVE RECEPTION 5-9 p.m. Clarion Hotel Downtown1615 Gervais St., Columbia
desCriPtiOn: Every year, we travel to Columbia to meet with members of the S.C. General Assembly. Mark your calendar for the 2009 reception. Look for details online at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Special Events, and in upcoming issues of the Grand Strander.
MArk your calendar sPeCiAl eVeNts Update For more information on any of these special events, go to
MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click on the special events icon.
In an effort to help chamber members learn where elected officials stand on business issues, and to discover the chamber’s 2009 legislative agenda, your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Legislative Luncheon, Dec. 10 from 11:45 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Crown Reef Conference Center, 2913 S. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach. The cost to attend is $20 per member or $30 per nonmember. Register at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Special Events. Registration deadline is Dec. 8.
Come out and meet state representatives As the Grand Strander went to press, the following legislators were scheduled to attend, however, due to upcoming elections, the panel may change: Sens. Ray Cleary, Dick Elliott, Yancey McGill and Luke Rankin; Reps. Carl Anderson, Tracy Edge, Nelson Hardwick, Vida Miller and Thad Viers.
Sponsored by Coastal Carolinas Association of Realtors and Horry Georgetown Home Builders Association.
CHAMBer hosts annual Legislative Luncheon
Last year’s Legislative Luncheon panel included (Left) Reps. Alan Clemmons and Thad Viers and Sen. Ray Cleary.
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If you need a Web site built or redesigned, or you’re looking to increase awareness or drive more traffic to your business’s Web site, chances are you may need the help of a professional interactive marketing company. In the second part of this three part series, I will be exploring just why it is important to use a reputable interactive marketing company to produce your work and implement your strategies, even if that means paying a little more up front.
they’re here one day and gone the next: One of the clearest differences between an independent Web designer and a full-service interactive marketing company is what happens after your Web site is delivered and it goes live. A freelance Web designer responsibility ends when you’ve approved the final proof and they hand over your Web site. But the success of your Web site depends almost solely on what happens after design and coding is finished. So if you
find an error occurs – like a dysfunctional contact form or certain pages aren’t compatible to certain Internet browsers – you’re on your own. Most professional interactive marketing companies will offer some kind of guarantee on their work, usually in the form of a warranty period, which ensures that when something needs to be changed or fixed, the work will be done at no additional charge. This is a perfect example of why it is worth paying more – because you get more, and that just makes good business sense. Just the facts, ma’am: Be wary of a company that can turn your Web site around in just a handful of days. Again, the design of your Web site is just one small component. Don’t forget the big picture. Here are some facts.
There are five major Internet browsers (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, Opera and Avant) that 98 percent of U.S. residents use to navigate the Web, and each of them has a handful of different “versions.” Each one of them requires your Web site to be coded and programmed in such a way to format correctly when a user pulls it up in their browser. Was your $1,000 Web site tested against all of these browsers and all their versions, or did it only “look good” on yours and the designer’s browser?
There are only four major search engines that U.S. residents use to research the World Wide Web (arguably two – Google and Yahoo). Did you know that each of these search engines has a unique set of rules or stipulations that they expect from a Web site for it to be indexed properly? Meta content, header files and tags, and CSS are just a few of the most recent techniques used within the code of your Web site for it to be positively recognized by a search engine bot or crawler. Do you know how your Web site looks to the search engines? Don’t you think spending a few more dollars in development is worth it if the result gives your business’s Web site the chance of being seen by the hundreds of millions of users that navigate the World Wide Web every day? You can bet it is.
Be on the look out for the third and final installment in this series on choosing a professional interactive marketing company. In this last article, I will be discussing the importance of Web analytics access and a Web hosting.
editor’s note: Article courtesy of DSL Marketing. If you have questions regarding development of your Web site, or marketing in general, visit DSLMarketing.com.
tAkinG Care of BusinessPROGRAMS AND SERVICES TO HELP SMALL BuSINESSES GROW AND SuCCEED. PAGe COMPliMents OF dsl MArketinG.
yOU Get what you pay for Why you should choose a professional interactive company PART II
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Grand strandereCOnOMiC Update
Until very recently, the spillover from the yearlong U.S. credit crunch to the real economy has been minimal. In recent weeks, uncertainty and a lack of confidence within financial markets have brought the regular flow of funds to a near standstill. Tackling a few of the issues may help shed light on how we got here, and on exactly where we are.
1. The housing market moves in cycles. The housing market is like waves on the ocean. Waves grow to a crest then fall to a trough. Normally, the housing market grows during an economic expansion then corrects during a recession. Occasionally, we get a storm surge. What are we left with after the surge? usually it’s a mess. The United States saw a tremendous surge in housing that began in the early 1990s. Housing should have corrected during the recession of 2001 but it didn’t. The combination of historically low interest rates and ongoing financial innovation sparked the widespread use of new mortgage products – including subprime and low-documentation loans – that helped fuel an ongoing housing surge.
Only when the surge began to recede in 2006 did the resulting mess become apparent,
characterized by a downward correction in sales, excess inventory, falling prices and rising foreclosures.
2. Credit markets are no longer functioning efficiently. Many bad decisions were made during the housing boom that were fueled by irrrespon- sibility, short-sightedness, lack of information, and greed on the part of borrowers, lenders, investors and regulators. If the costs of these bad decisions could have been contained and limited only to those making the bad decisions, then our credit markets could have continued functioning normally, and we wouldn’t – or at least shouldn’t – be talking about government intervention.
But, the costs of those bad decisions have nowspread. After a mortgage is made, it is typically bundled with other mortgages and then securitized – it is traded in the market. These mortgage-backed securities continue to be bundled, split, bought and sold, and now reside on the balance sheets of firms throughout the financial industry, including those that had no role in the initial lending and borrowing. Because these mortgage-backed securities are backed by an unknown mix of good and bad
mortgages, determining the underlying value of these securities is nearly impossible. Financial institutions have no way of accurately valuing these assets because there is no market for them because their current value is unknown!
All of this uncertainty has resulted in frozen credit markets. Financial firms don’t know who has how much junk on their balance sheets, and for this reason are reluctant to lend to other institutions. This prevents the normal and necessary flow of credit throughout the economy.
3. The availability of credit is necessary for the economy to function. A small business typically needs to borrow to finance its startup costs that will then be recouped over time. A household typically needs to borrow funds to finance a home purchase that will generate benefits over time. A student needs to borrow to finance an education that will generate returns down the road.
Almost every productive economic activity we engage in involves costs and benefits that occur at different points in time. The availability of credit forms a bridge between the timing of
MAkinG sense of the financial market meltdown
dOn sCHUnk is a research economist with the BB&T Center for Economic and Community Development at Coastal Carolina University. He develops and maintains a database of regional economic indicators and publishes economic forecasts; serves as a liaison with the area business community and state and local governments; and writes a monthly column for the Grand Strander.
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eCOnOMiC Update
eCOnOMiC Indicators
JULY UNE MPLOYMENT County 2007 Rate 2008 RateHorry 138,032 4.5% 141,817 5.9%Georgetown 30,279 6.4% 30,377 7.5%
JULY GROSS RETAIL SALES County 2007 2008 % Change
Horry $1,092,436,214 $1,094,705,034 +0.2%Georgetown $139,167,284 $152,022,635 +9.2%
JULY ADMISS IONS TA x County 2007 2008 % Change
Horry $1,121,596 $1,458,563 +30%Georgetown $60,252 $70,375 +16.8%
JULY AIRPORT AC TIVIT Y 2007 2008 % Change
Arrivals 91,337 87,109 -4.63%Departures 92,106 85,984 -6.65%
ACCOMMODATIONS TAx COLLECTIONSHOrry COUnty GeOrGetOwn COUnty
RESIDENTIAL CONS TRUC TION PER MITS JULY 0 8 Location Myrtle Beach Unincorporated North
Myrtle BeachSurfside Beach
Georgetown County
Single Family Units 16 117 13 2 20Single Family Units Cost $2,221,537 $17,921,461 $3,393,285 $532,005 $5,464,905Multi-Family Bldgs. 14 1 1 0 1Multi-Family Units 479 8 37 0 5Multi-Family Bldgs. Cost $113,192,315 $588,500 $8,246,462 0 $421,429
Sources: S.C. Departments of PRT and Revenue, Bureau of Census, S.C. Employment Commission, Horry County Department of Airports
2007 KEY
Number of persons in labor force, rate
2008
JuN +1.2% JUl -1.3% AUG +13.5%
RESIDENTIAL CONS TRUC TION PER MITS JULY 07 Location Myrtle Beach Unincorporated North
Myrtle BeachSurfside Beach
Georgetown County
Single Family Units 30 201 23 1 41Single Family Units Cost $4,848,935 $28,286,349 $5,437,048 $160,699 $9,066,524Multi-Family Bldgs. 0 2 2 0 1Multi-Family Units 0 16 66 0 8Multi-Family Bldgs. Cost 0 $1,279,960 $14,709,905 0 $486,400
these costs and benefits. This is why we have credit markets, and functional credit markets are critical for financing economic growth.
Our credit markets are currently unable to perform this function. The lack of credit hurts individuals, families, and businesses everywhere that have rational and productive uses for borrowed funds.
JUn -8.3% JUl -8.0% AUG +6.4%
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,645
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Grand stranderFOr The Record
During July through September 2008, your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau have been extremely busy creating opportunities for your business to grow and prosper. Take a look at what your chamber accomplished: Celebrated the spirit of chamber volunteerism at the Chamber Volunteer Celebration. The event recognized the more than 820 volunteers who donated their time to help the chamber accomplish its goals during the 2007-2008 fiscal year. Special recognition went to Shannon Camp as Volunteer of the Year, HTC as the recipient of the Chairman’s Choice award, and Steve Chapman for his leadership as 2007-2008 MBACC board of directors chairman. south strand Council held a South Strand Back to School Breakfast Meeting for South Strand members. Danny Isaac, District 1 SCDOT commissioner, discussed South Strand road issues. Approximately 65 South Strand members attended. (Below) Celebrated the 3rd annual Beach, Boogie & BBQ Festival with more than 50,000 in attendance. The festival featured family friendly entertainment and
events, including live music, the official barbecue competition of South Carolina, a classic car show, a kids area, barbecue sandwich eating championship, boat rides on the lake, food and arts/crafts vendors, a car giveaway, a new 5K run/walk with 154 racers competing, celebrity meet and greet and more.
Joined with other local chambers in hosting the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Grand Strand Regional Grassroots Meeting. This open-forum meeting was one of the first steps in creating the
2009 Competitiveness Agenda, the S.C. Chamber’s and business community’s annual list of legislative priorities. Held a sports tourism Marketing seminar where industry expert Don Schumacher discussed trends, issues, challenges and successes in sports marketing. Continued to host free public concerts in conjunction with the summerlong Sun Fun Festival. The Sun Fun Summer Concert Series, presented by Withers Preserve and The Market Common, were held each Friday
Celebrated 21 ribbon-cutting ceremonies and one groundbreaking ceremony: (Above) Hodge Podge Studio, Celestial Spa on Cloud 9, Sperry Van Ness/Tradd Commercial, Elena’s Boutique & Consignment, College Chore Pros, LLC, Brooks Brothers–Market Common, JS Elite Flooring, First Federal-In Lowes Foods at Grande Dunes, HTC Communications, JZ Graphics, WMBF News, Partners In Colours Inc., Chili’s Grill & Bar–Surfside Beach, The Arc of Coastal Carolina, AT&T Advertising, Doncaster, D.R. Horton–Tuscany, Advanced Protection Services, Tuscany Tile & Design, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Kids First Consignment and Tidelands Bank–Murrells Inlet.
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FOr The Record
at Grand Park in the old Air Force Base. The Plyler Park Concert Series, presented by the Myrtle Beach Downtown Merchants Association, were held every Tuesday and Saturday at Plyler Park.
Hosted a reception for rep. dan Cooper, chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, for his help in securing the chamber’s 2008-2009 two-for-one destination-marketing funds. Held a Convention services Update for accommodation lead subscribers to discuss Myrtle Beach Area CVB procedures and services.
Held five educational classes including 2nd annual Grand Strand Human Resources Law Update & Luncheon with 120 in attendance, Intermediate Excel with 10 people,
Employee vs Contractor with 19 people in attendance, Immigration Reform and Your Business attended by 36 people and Basic Excel attended by 10 people. The Chamber Academy is sponsored by the Myrtle Beach Herald. Booked 56 groups into member properties. • Distributed 174 leads to convention and motorcoach lead service subscribers. • Serviced 151 groups with 15,564 attendees. • Exhibited at four trade shows promoting to the group market and one travel shows promoting to the consumer market.
Greeted 27,099 visitors at our welcome centers and welcomed four bus tour groups. • Received 15,837 phone calls through our call centers. • Fulfilled 47,735 qualified inquiries.
welcomed 118 new members. Celebrated three Business After Hours with 664 members in attendance. Held two Connections Marketplace, speed networking event, with 109 members attending. Hosted 12 travel writers. • Myrtle Beach mentioned 804 times in print and Web stories from regional, national and international media with a total publicity value of $1,918,686. • Produced 26 news releases, media advisories and invitations. • Responded to 143 media inquiries and requests for information. • Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and its events and activities were mentioned 256 times in local and regional media. logged 729,435 daily unique web visits at VisitMyrtleBeach.com. • Recorded 4,035,990 page views by unique visitors at VisitMyrtleBeach.com. • Recorded 1,153,178 referrals from paid advertisements (member links on one of VisitMyrtleBeach.com’s main navigational pages–Lodging, Transportation, Dining, Things to Do, Golf, etc.) • Logged 46,778 click throughs (referrals) to members’ Web sites through the Business Directory on MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
Introduced 35 members during Chamber Access, new member orientation and refresher course for current members. (Photo) Seventeen members dropped by the August 2008 Chamber Access.
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Grand stranderPresident’s Gala, From Cover Page
Citizen of the year wayne Gray, tidelands Bank spring House restaurant Group inc. A native son of the Myrtle Beach area, Wayne Gray’s vast knowledge of the inner workings on the local, state and federal level has made him one of the top leaders in the community. Gray served as chairman of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce board of directors from 2005 to 2006 and is currently serving his second term on the Myrtle Beach City Council. He is board member of the North Eastern Strategic Alliance, serves on the Horry County Schools Superintendent’s Business Cabinet and is active in the Myrtle Beach Rotary Club. Gray is a graduate of Leadership Grand Strand Class V and Leadership South Carolina 2000. Gray is co-owner of Springhouse Restaurant Group, operating four restaurants along the Grand Strand, and senior vice president and regional executive at Tidelands Bank.
PIONeer of the year thomas “tom” rogers, ACs technologies Tom Rogers’ hard work is recognized by his participation in several civic and business organizations, including serving as chairman of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce from 1974 to 1976, and his abiding philosophy of “treat everyone like you would like to be treated yourself.” Rogers has a long history in broadcasting including his principal business venture as president of the Grand Strand Broadcasting Company, which he owned and led from 1966-1999. In 1978, he became an original shareholder and director of ACS Technologies and currently serves as president. Rogers has served as president of the Grand Strand Press Association, president of the South Carolina Broadcasters Association, president of the Myrtle Beach Rotary Club, and treasurer for the Myrtle Beach Area Junior Golf Association. Rogers was a founding director for The Anchor Bank and formerly served on the board of directors for The South Financial Group (Carolina First Bank). In 2006, Rogers received the state’s highest civilian honor by the governor of South Carolina, the Order of the Palmetto.
Annual Meeting, From Cover Page
Brant Branham followed fiscal year 2007-2008 accomplishments with an overview of this year’s chamber agenda, including recruiting more stakeholders to become members in the MBACC Destination Marketing Program; updating the member Web site, MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, and visitor site, VisitMyrtleBeach.com; continuing a whirlwind of events for gsSCECNE; and pursuing additional enhancements to The Official Myrtle Beach Area Visitors Guide and The Official Myrtle Beach Area Vacation Guide.
The program then turned to the presentation of awards honoring individuals and companies that have distinguished themselves in the areas of community service, business excellence and customer relations. The chamber congratulates all companies and individuals that were nominated. the 2008 winners are:
Grand strand Hospitality employee of the year rodney Grant, springmaid Beach resort, started more than 16 years ago doing odd jobs and learning the trades of the lodging industry. A hard worker who is not only dedicated to Springmaid
wayne Gray
tom rogers
rodney Grant
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Beach Resort but to his co-workers, Grant is seen daily with a smile on his face, a quick step and a friendly hello. Finalists included: John Glover, Myrtle Beach Pelicans, and Linda Manigault, Holiday Inn at the Pavilion.
Ambassador of the year Jenafor Braley, warranties For less, has served as an ambassador for the past three years. During this past year, she earned Ambassador of the Month five times, made more than 983 telephone calls to members, participated
in four Membership Renewal Phone-a-Thons, volunteered 18 hours at chamber festivals and expos, and attended 24 ambassador meetings, 11 Warm Welcome (Chamber Access) receptions, and 22 ribbon-cutting ceremonies. Braley was the 2005 Ambassador of the Year.
young Professional of the year Whether it’s helping with a 4th of July parade or sharing his musical talent with a high school drama and music department, you can always count on Chris Butler, dolly Parton’s dixie stampede dinner & show, to be the first in line to volunteer. His aspiration and leadership also is seen is his professional circle as well. Finalists included: Sara Boling, Century 21 Boling & Associates, and Shannon Camp, The Jackson Companies.
Business innovation Award This bistro and bakery is not only filled with the aroma of a freshly baked chocolate raspberry torte or steaming cup of seafood gumbo but also with the sounds of a ukulele and steel guitar. Yes, it’s open mic night at Croissants Bistro & Bakery. Weekly open mic nights and monthly wine and art shows allow songwriters, musicians and artists the opportunity to showcase their talents. Finalists included Carolina Forest Imaging Center LLC and New School Stock, Storage & Installation.
Community service Award From Splash’s Student All-Stars and Dinger’s Summer Reading Program to American Red Cross blood drives, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans not only hit home runs on the field but through their multiple community service programs. Finalists included Brookgreen Gardens and Sheraton Broadway Plantation.
Business image Award As the largest engineering firm in the Grand Strand, ddC engineers inc. has played a significant role in the economic progress of the area. However, their service to the community doesn’t stop there. Giving back to the area by offering services free of charge is the real design behind DDC Engineers. Finalists included
Croissants Bistro & Bakery, FSA-Full Steam Ahead Inc. Fire & Water Restoration and GS Magazine.
small Business of the year Award Gs Magazine is not only known for its intriguing articles and eye-popping photography but also for its generosity to the community. The staff’s passion for the area is seen in their volunteerism and promotion of nonprofits in the magazine. Finalists included Hart to Heart Media Inc., Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach and Innovative Hiring Technology (IHT).
The chamber also recognized Leadership Grand Strand Ann DeBock Award winner David Brittain (see LeadershipGrandStrand.com for an in-depth article), and Volunteers of the Year – Steve Chapman, HTC and Shannon Camp (see Page 5).
Such a worthwhile event would not be possible without the support of our sponsors. Special thanks to BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, Myrtle Beach Herald, Pace Communications, AT&T Advertising &
Publishing, Nexsen Pruet LLC, The Conway National Bank, Tidelands Bank and Millennium Business Group.
Visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com to see more annual meeting photos.
Chris Butler
Jenafor Braley
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Grand strander
State and federal highway officials signed the Record of Decision for the Interstate 73 northern route on Oct. 22. Secretary of Transportation H. B. “Buck” Limehouse and Bob Lee, S.C. division administrator, Federal Highway Administration, signed the document and offered comments. SCDOT I-73 Project Manager Mitchell Metts and FHWA Environmental Program Manager Patrick Tyndall provided a project update and upcoming timeline.
“This signals the end of the planning phase and beginning of the construction phase,” said Brad Dean, National I-73/74 Corridor Association executive director and Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce president and CEO. “The project had been shelved and was at a stalemate just a few years ago. We applaud DOT’s efforts on its rapid progress on a project of tremendous regional and national significance.”
The ROD represents the final approval of the Final Environmental Impact Statement, completing the environmental review process, and permits SCDOT to begin expending currently available federal funding in the acquisition of right-of-way for the northern route. The northern route ties to I-73/74 in the Rockingham/Hamlet, North Carolina, region and runs south across the North Carolina/South Carolina state line through Marlboro and Dillon counties.
The ROD for the southern route was signed Feb. 8. The southern route continues from I-95 and runs to State Route 22 (Conway Bypass).
For more information about I-73/74, visit I73.com or contact Melanie dorman, project coordinator for the National I-73/74 Corridor Association, at (866) 924-7374 or [email protected].
sIgNINg ceremony for I-73 by Melanie Dorman, I-73 project coordinator, National Interstate 73/74 Corridor Association
ArOUnd The Web
Online VideO advertising for small- and medium-sized businessesby Bill Rosenthal, MBACC Internet marketing manager
The majority of Americans now have access to high speed Internet at home or work and as a result, the popularity of online video advertising has increased significantly in the last several years. For large businesses, it is a fairly simple process to take either existing content as is, modify it, or simply create something new for the Web. For small- and medium-sized businesses where little or no pre-existing video content exists, it has been somewhat challenging. Until now!
Within the last year, several new businesses have entered into the “do it yourself” video ad creation market allowing small- and medium-sized businesses to develop online video advertisements quickly and affordably. One example is SpotMixer (SpotMixer.com) which offers a complete video editing package for $79 per month that incorporates your images, videos, music and voice-over to create an online video ad from hundreds of premixed templates with ease. You can utilize their stock music for your advertisement and in the future, access to high quality stock photography should become available.
Once your video is created, their built in interface allows you to easily publish to YouTube or a Google AdWords campaign. You can also download in MP4 format and put your video ad on your Web site and in front of prospective customers elsewhere on the Internet.
The Internet is the home of “comparison shopping” regardless of whether consumers are searching for products or services and video advertising can increase your overall online visibility by opening up new ad distribution channels. It also adds a bit of professionalism to your Web site that will make your business stand tall above the competition.
If you have questions about online video advertising, contact Bill rosenthal, Internet marketing manager, at (843) 916-7227.
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Chamber ambassadors are outgoing, enthusiastic and dependable individuals who believe in and support the efforts of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. Ambassadors are volunteers who enjoy meeting new people and spending time with other professionals. Ambassadors act as the official goodwill greeters between the chamber and our current and prospective members. Their responsibilities include one-on-one visitations with chamber businesses, event networking and support of various chamber projects.
wHy BeCOMe A CHAMBer AMBAssAdOr?As an ambassador, you will gain business exposure by being the first to meet chamber members and put your company’s name in the forefront. By volunteering at chamber events and attending the monthly ambassador meetings, your business is kept current on what is going on within the chamber and community.
As an added bonus, you and your company are eligible for monthly and yearly award recognition.
dO yOU HAVe wHAt it tAkes?If you meet the criteria mentioned above and are interested in becoming a chamber ambassador, contactPat Creed, membership programs manager, at (843) 916-7225 or [email protected].
DO you have what it takes tobe a chamber ambassador?
Applause to Fidencia Pla with Keller Williams Realty, who earned the second highest total points for September. Pla is serving her second year as an ambassador.
AMBAssAdOr OF tHe MOntH
Congratulations to Jenafor Braley with Warranties for Less, who earned Ambassador of the Month for September. Braley is serving her third year as an ambassador.
ArOUnd The Web
Christmastime is here and Myrtle Beach’s premier free family holiday festival is upon us. Christmas Towne, Horry County’s premier free community holiday festival, will take place Dec. 4 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center outdoor events plaza.
•Lightingofa45-footChristmastree
•Toydrop-offlocationforToysforTots
•Freeentertainment
•FreephotoswithSanta
•Freetrainandwagonrides
•Freehotchocolate
•Freeinflatableslides
•Freebasketballhoops
•Freefacepaintingandspinart
•FreecraftsandsomuchmoreFor more information, contact the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce at (843) 626-7444 or visit MyrtleBeachChristmasTowne.com.
Sponsored by the City of Myrtle Beach and MBACC.
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Grand strander
The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to offer its members a diverse mix of cooperative advertising options through spring 2009.
The advertising co-ops provide an opportunity to take advantage of negotiated discounted rates in order to stretch ad budgets. The range of co-ops available include a variety of online promotions, e-mail blasts, magazine and newspaper insert choices. Also, the chamber will provide online creative support if needed by participants.
To learn more about these exciting opportunities and to find the right fit for your marketing program, contact Lynne Boykin, Brandon Advertising and Public Relations, at (843) 916-2000 or e-mail at [email protected]. For a complete list of co-ops, go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click on Marketing Strategies.
Space is limited for each opportunity and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Tosecurethediscountedrates,eachco-opmustselloutinorderforittorun.
note: In order to participate, members must contribute $1 per rented room night for lodging members or a 1 percent “marketing fee” or a nonparticipating advertising cost for non-lodging members.
CO-OP Corner MAGAzine AdVertisinG CO-OP
Frommer’s Budget travel Magazine–March 2009 special travel section: Myrtle Beach April 2009 Co-op Pages: CarolinasFrommer’s Budget Travel is a how to travel guide servicing the leisure travel mass market.Geographic target: STS Section: East of Mississippi (Circulation 392,200) Co-op Pages: NC and SC (Circulation 137,000)Ad size: 1/6 page,2.875x1.848 Material deadline: 11/14/08 March 2009; 01/05/09 April 2009 Ad Cost: $3,995, six spots available March 2009; $2,040 six spots available April 2009
AAA GO Magazine–January/February 2009GO Magazine provides AAA Carolinas members with information about travel, consumer issues, member services, benefits and programs. Geographic target: 1,050,000 in CarolinasReader response listing on AAA Go postcard, ad placed on AAA Carolinas Web siteAd size: 1/8 page, 2.875x2 Material deadline: 11/12/08Ad Cost: $3,100, eight spots available
Grand Strand Living® puts your business in front of people actively looking to relocate, retire or find a trusted chamber member for products and services. We take out some of the frustrations of moving to a new town by highlighting community information, school statistics, housing options, health care choices and much more.
why advertise in Grand strand living? • Two membership listings (alphabetical and
categorical ) are included with two-color ads in the categorical section in addition to four-color ads in the book.
• Even businesses with small advertising budgets (four-color ads start at $1,147) can reach thousands.
• A total of 35,000 will be printed, plus an electronic version of the guide will be online at GrandStrandLiving.com.
important dates (New memberships must be in by Jan. 15, 2009, in order to be listed in the 2009 Grand Strand Living.)Ad sales close: Dec. 15, 2008Payment due: Dec. 17, 2008, or ad space will be cancelledAd materials due: Jan. 15, 2009, by 2 p.m.
learn More: MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com, click on Marketing Strategies or contact Scott Head, advertising sales manager, at [email protected] or (843) 916-7277.
Grand Strand Living is published by your Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.
AdVertiseGrand Strand Living
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by John Sawyer, Jr., gsSCENE Sponsorship Committee chairman
gsSCENE has acquired more than 375 members since our kick off on May 8, 2008. That seven month period should be worth noting, and can only lead one to draw the conclusion, that Myrtle Beach and its surrounding area desperately needed an organization to connect young professionals with Myrtle Beach’s business environment and dramatic growth trends. An important result not to go unnoticed is that our current sponsors are finding young professionals within this organization reciprocate very generously. Brian Thacker of Real Estate Mortgage Services stated, “Becoming a sponsor of gsSCENE was the best marketing dollars I have spent since opening my business here.” What can Thacker contribute this marketing success to? A motivated and successful work force migrating to Myrtle Beach to develop as a professional while also enjoying all that this area has to offer.
WPDE TV-15 deserves special recognition for having enough foresight to see the demographic of young professionals emerging in our area. WPDE TV-15 has committed giving gsSCENE two years of publicity, valued at $75,000 per year. With this support our organization will continue to attract young professionals and their supporting cast of mentors, business associates, and suppliers of goods
and services. I feel confident that WPDE TV-15’s sponsorship has allowed several young professionals to see our public service announcements running on their station and peak their interest in the organization.
We thank the following sponsors for committing their faith and money to the creating year of our young professional organization: McNair Law Firm, Century 21 Boling and Associates, Real Estate Mortgage Services, Smith, Sapp, Bookhout, Crumpler & Calliham, The Conway National Bank, WPDE TV-15 and The Yahnis Company.
We invite and challenge your organization to meet with us to determine the benefits both parties will receive from a level of sponsorship. Greater detail about sponsorship levels can be provided through meeting with us or viewing ourWeb site, gsSCENE.com.
gssCene Presenting sponsor $7,500
gssCene Gold Annual sponsor $3000
gssCene silver Annual sponsor $1,500
gssCene Bronze event sponsor $500*
*Event sponsor price does not apply to certain special events.
sponsors contribute to gsSCENE’s success
UPCOMinG gssCene eVents (Register at gsSCENE.com)
NOV. 15 Community Service Projects 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Habitat for Humanity 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Community Kitchen of Myrtle Beach
NOV. 18
8:30-10:30 a.m.
Educational Breakfast: Social Media Fire Station #6, Community Room Sponsored by The Bagel Factory
deC. 10
5:30-7:30 p.m. Christmas Celebration at Hard Rock Cafe Sponsored by Hard Rock Cafe
gssCene
Boling & Associates, Inc.
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Grand stranderPr Hotspot
Partners Making news, From Page 6
outlets including Yahoo!, Forbes.com and The Wall Street Journal Online.
On Aug. 13, MetroParent.com (Circulation 80,000) featured Myrtle Beach and noted with such a large stretch of beach you can always find a quiet spot. The story highlighted Myrtle Beach State Park, Hard Rock Park, Alligator Adventure, NASCAR SpeedPark, Ripley’s Attractions, Family Kingdom, and for good camping spots, it mentioned Huntington Beach State Park, Ocean Lakes Family Campground, Lakewood Camping Resort, and PirateLand Family Camping Resort.
Myrtle Beach was the only destination versus an attraction named a Top Family Friendly Vacation Spot according to Ask.com on Aug. 21.
The Myrtle Beach area’s unique communities and evolving golf scene took center stage in a Sunday, Aug. 24 feature story from the Atlanta Journal Constitution (Circulation 2,216,986, Publicity Value $76,434). Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday and several area courses were mentioned. The article also included several area attractions, restaurants, shopping venues, where to stay, and entertainment options.
For his Labor Day weekend radio program, Peter Greenberg, Travel Editor of NBC’s “The Today Show” recorded his two-hour-long radio program from Marina Inn at Grande Dunes Aug. 28. The radio show, which airs on xM Satellite Radio and several other radio stations nationally, has an average of 1.5 million listeners. Greenberg interviewed area experts on the hidden gems
of Myrtle Beach and spoke with Ann Wilson of Myrtle Beach State Park, Jack Thompson, well-known photographer, Bo Taylor, GM of Hawaiian Rumble Mini Golf, and Sandi Kendrick of the Horry County Arts Council.
Convention South Magazine (Circulation. 18,253, Publicity Value $11,757) highlighted Myrtle Beach’s year round qualities for a great place to bring groups in its September 2008 issue. Hard Rock Park, The Market Common, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, and Orvis were mentioned as new developments. Meeting properties included the new North Beach Plantation and Spa, Myrtle Beach Convention Center, Ocean Dunes/Sands Dunes Resort, Premier Resorts at Barefoot Resort, Island Vista Resort, Ocean Reef Resort, Caribbean Resort and Villas, Crown Reef at South Beach Resort, Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, Kingston Plantation, Pawleys Plantation, Litchfield Plantation, Bay Watch Resort, Anderson Ocean Club, and Sea Trail Golf Resort and Convention Center.
In the September 2008 Carolinas Guide of Meeting and Conventions Magazine (Circulation 70,023, Publicity Value $16,662) many new developments were highlighted including Hard Rock Park, Premier Resorts at Barefoot Resort, Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort, and The Market Common.
As a result of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber’s fall deals news release, the Myrtle Beach area was included in a story on fall getaways with younger children that ran on SmarterTravel.com Sept. 29 and CNN Travel Online on Oct. 6.
“With its old-fashioned salty appeal, South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach beckons to the kid in everyone. If the seaside Ferris wheel doesn’t get your memories spinning, whiffs of Coppertone and fried shrimp surely will. At the heart of the 60-mile-long Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach remains one of the country’s most popular family vacation spots.”
- stePHAnie HUntEndless Vacation Magazine (Circ. 1,554,389)
article titled, “The Myrtle Beach Diet: Just joking – no need to restrain yourselves. Get
your fill of roller coasters, turtle spotting and fresh shrimp right off the pier.” August 2008
Southern Charm is prevalent at Withers Preserve and The Market Common according to the October 2008 Issue of Coastal Living Magazine (Circulation 660,000).
Print Publicity ValuesAugust 2008211 Print Articles, Total Circulation 95,658,703, Publicity Value $524,395
september 2008131 Print Articles, Total Circulation 16,200,559, Publicity Value $325,400
What would you like to learn or see in a future PR Hot Spot? Want to be involved in this areas PR efforts? Have a PR related question? You can reach kimberly Miles at (843) 916-7218 or [email protected].
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BUsiness Bulletin
On tHe weBAvidCast Inc. announced the launch of Myrtle Beach Area Chamber member Pur Creation’s search engine marketing campaign. Pur Creation is owned by Cherie Mercer. A&I Fire & Water Restoration Specialists has added an AvidPerson Web host to their new Web site. Visit ai-restoration.com to view their latest addition.inside trACks
AvidCast Inc. welcomed robert Ashley to its sales team.
The Dunes office of Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate welcomed lucy Bruno and Canaan sewell to its team. laura Hoffman has joined the Surfside Beach office of Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate.
kim lewis has joined the Hilton Garden Inn at Coastal Grand Mall as the director of sales. The new hotel is opening in mid-November.
McCaffery Interests Inc. has named Hatton Gravely as its new marketing manager for The Market Common. in tHe news
Sea Trail Golf Resort & Convention Center has been
named one of Meetings South magazine’s “2008 Best of the South” in the September issue. This is the fourth year that Sea Trail Golf Resort & Convention Center has received this honor.Criteria for the awards include: quality of meeting space; guest rooms; guest services and amenities; food and beverage service; hi-tech services and equipment; recreational facilities and activities; the efficiency and helpfulness of staff; and overall value and experience.exPAnsiOns
Agape Senior of the Grand Strand held a groundbreaking ceremony Sept. 30 to celebrate the construction of its new assisted living villas and campus expansion. The apartment style one bedroom villas will be constructed adjacent to the present Conway Assisted Living Facility on Highway 378 in Conway. The newly constructed villas will include 30 apartment style villas designed to provide privacy and independence for seniors in a resort-like environment with the full complement of Agape Senior’s integrated health care services. wHeelinG & deAlinG
Myrtle Beach advertising and public relations agency LHWH
has been retained as agency of of record for advertising and public relations for The Market Common. COntinUinG edUCAtiOn
Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate announced that david wolons of DAWOL Homes has earned the designation of Certified Green Professional (CGP). Coldwell Banker Chicora’s New Homes division handles the sales and marketing for DAWOL’s new homes and villas at The Gates. As a CGP, Wolons has learned strategies to incorporate green-building principles into homes without driving up the cost of construction.
Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate announced that Jan Buess, Surfside Beach office, and Jill Caines, Georgetown office, achieved Cartus Network Referral Specialist (CNRS) certification. The CNRS certification course covers the purchase of a destination house, as well as the most effective techniques for helping clients research communities, locate their new homes, and settle into their new areas anywhere in the United States. dennis Blanton and Jeremy Blanton from the Dunes office achieved
both the Cartus Network Marketing Specialist (CNMS) and the Cartus Network Inventory Specialist (CNIS) certifications. The CNMS certification course includes teaching the agents how to best market the transferee’s old house, how to decrease administrative burdens, and the aspects of the Amended Sale Program and the Broker Market Analysis. The CNIS certification course includes tasks for safeguarding and selling a transferee’s vacant property after his or her move and meeting client performance metrics.CHeers
ShipOnSite® of Myrtle Beach will celebrate its first year anniversary Nov. 30. This newly established packaging and shipping store has conducted nearly 18,000 transactions in its first year of operations. ShipOnSite of Myrtle Beach is an authorized shipping center for FedEx, DHL, the USPS and a drop-site for UPS. They also specialize in crating and freight services and are the Grand Strand’s premier eBay store. sPrUCinG UP
Sands Resorts is completing renovations to its conference center. Renovations are planned in a two-step
process. The first phase is now complete with Web cam broadcasting, LCD monitors, and a new audio system. The second phase is scheduled for completion in spring 2009 and includes a new business center, executive boardroom and group hospitality rooms.sHAre yOUr news
Business Bulletin recognizes chamber members’ business news, including new employees, staff promotions, relocations and expansions, awards, class and convention attendance, and year-end accomplishments for top real estate producers/sales. Send Business Bulletin updates (under 75 words) by the 5th of each month for the upcoming issue: e-mail –[email protected], fax – (843) 626-0009, or mail – Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, Grand Strander, P.O. Box 2115, Myrtle Beach, SC 29578-2115Due to limited space, Business Bulletin does not include photos or nonprofit fundraising activities. However, please go to GrandStrandEvents.com and enter your events on the Web calendar. Locals and visitors check out this site to find out what’s happening in the Myrtle Beach area.
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Grand stranderwelCOMe New Members
Anthony Proietta & Associates investigations & security of Myrtle Beach, llCInvestigationsTimothy Moore1110 London St., Ste. 105Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 626-8060(888) 626-8060proiettapi.com
Atlantic Bar & restaurant supply, inc.Restaurant SuppliesFelicia Guyton1788 Hwy. 501Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 445-7687
Black thaiRestaurant-ThaiMark Brendan Martinez710 Main St.Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 916-8424blackthai22.com
Capital ChoiceFinancial-ConsultantsJohn Kolumba101 Willow Ridge Rd.Myrtle Beach, SC 29588(843) 215-0746
Carmen Ash PhotographyPhotographersCarmen Ash CoblentzPO Box 51331Myrtle Beach, SC 29579(843) 385-2127carmenash.com
Carolina solar security, inc.Window TintingJim Arnesen742 Mink Ave., Ste. 224Murrells Inlet, SC 29576(843) 281-9800carolina-solar.com
Collins and lacy, P.C.AttorneysWilliam Bryan1500 Hwy. 17 N., # 204Surfside Beach, SC 29575(843) 477-0500collinsandlacy.com
Cooperative BankBanksClaire West1232 Farrow Pkwy., Ste. 100Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 839-9522coop-bank.com
Cypress roomRestaurant-Fine DiningAnn James6000 N. Ocean Blvd.Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 449-6406islandvista.com
Fast Fix Jewelry and watch repairsJewelry-RepairLesa Crown2000 Coastal Grand Circle, Ste. 105Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 839-2933fastfix.com/coastalgrand
First Federal - in lowes Foods at Grande dunesBanksPat O’Connor970 82nd Pkwy.Myrtle Beach, SC 29572(843) 497-9841firstfederal.com
Humana MarkerPOintSenior ServicesTearsha Urban2550 Whetstone Ln.Myrtle Beach, SC 29579(843) 655-7668humana.com
intercoastal net designsWeb DevelopmentCarla Shaw6649 Beach Dr. S.W., #1Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469(910) 575-6095icoastalnet.com/website_services.cfm
kansas City PrimeRestaurant-SteakhouseDavid Alevi1901 N. Kings Hwy.Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 445-7646
kart trax Formula racingAmusementsEric Griffin3901 N. Kings Hwy.Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 916-1111KartTrax.com
kono Asian GrillRestaurant-Japanese SteakhouseDavid Alevi1901 N. Kings Hwy.Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 445-7646
liberty tax serviceTax PreparationSamantha Slapnik1515-B Hwy. 501Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 839-1120
lifeline Personal response servicesOrganizations/ClubsCathy Fountain410 Oxner Ct.Myrtle Beach, SC 29579(843) 236-8844(866) 568-7730
lMs Fragrances regional training CenterHome-Based BusinessDiane Barr1320 E. Hwy. 501 BusinessConway, SC 29526(843) 485-0230lmsfragrances.com
Mcnab team, llC, dba re/MAx town & CountryReal Estate-SalesLaura McNab1271 38th Ave. N., Ste. 217Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 839-0200(866) 217-3233rtcmb.com
Millennium Business Group Credit Card ServicesMike Myers5950 FM 241 S. BusinessAlto, Tx 75925(888) 212-1644mbgservice.com
Myrtle Beach ManagementReal Estate-RentalsPat Finch1500 Hwy. 17 N., Ste. 206Surfside Beach, SC 29575(843) 828-0665(800) 968-9279myrtlebeachexperts.com
newcomers Club of the Grand strandOrganizations/ClubsWendy MarguliesPO Box 1263Myrtle Beach, SC 29578(843) 399-3106newcomersgs.com
nicoletti Property Management, llCProperty-ManagementDori Nicoletti1087 Redi Mix Rd.Little River, SC 29566(843) 390-1730
north Beach PlantationHotel-MotelDavid Brittain719 N. Beach Blvd.North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582(843) 946-9018(800) 615-3598northbeachrentals.com
reliv internationalHealth-WellnessDeb Liles15 S. BeachSurfside Beach, SC 29575(843) 251-9524
ripley’s Mirror MazeAmusementsKim Kiff1110 Celebrity CircleMyrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 916-0888ripleysaquarium.com
sonitrol security systemsSecurity Services-ConsultantsGary Dechent3620 Coalition Dr., #102Myrtle Beach, SC 29588(843) 294-9911sonitrolsc.com
the Haven at Carolina ForestApartmentsKim FloydPO Box 6500Spartanburg, SC 29304(864) 585-2000thehavenapartments.com/carolinaforest
wraps ink, inc.SignsBrent Tatum11690 Hwy. 17 BypassMurrells Inlet, SC 29576(843) 651-6003wrapsink.com
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Be a star
Mirage Hair studio Marissa Mazzadesigner5903A N. Kings Hwy Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 449.9983 MirageHairStudio.comChamber Member since: August 2006I.C.E. Awards Finalist in Service Category: 2006
Mirage Hair Studio Marissa MazzaThe goal at Mirage Hair Studio is to consistently exceed their guest’s expectations through knowledge, professionalism and expertise. They are committed to advanced education for the benefit of their team as well as their guests.
Mirage Hair Studio is dedicated to delivering an experience with each visit.services
Hair Cuts•Bridal Updo•Hair Extension•Hair Color and Texture•Semi-Permanent Color Glazing•Custom Permanent Color•Custom Highlighting•Brow Tint•Permanent Wave•Specialty Wraps•Relaxing•
Brazilian Keratin Treatment•Deep Sensations (Wheat and soy proteins add •moisture and help repair hair while sunflower seed oil, silk, passion flower and vitamin B5 help strengthen elasticity, give damage control, smoothness and comb ability. Body Builder (Silk powder adheres to hair •strands and creates space between them for fuller effects while wheat and soy proteins actually help seal ends.)Repent (Remove various types of buildup •using ginseng, rosemary and sage which invigorates, stimulates and leaves hair feeling lively and restored.)Colour Surge (Colour support will help •improve elasticity, give incredible shine and protect with uV filters.) Anti-Aging (Nanoworks shampoo and •conditioner contains anti-aging ingredients of green tea, sugar caner, citrus and wine extracts along with unique vegetable source proteins.) Manicure •Pedicure •Paraffin Hand •Treatment Paraffin Foot •Treatment Facial Waxing•Make Up•Eyelash •ExtensionsMassage and Facials•
As the chamber’s latest “Be a Star” winner, Marissa Mazza, designer with Mirage Hair Studio, sent in the following update on Mirage Hair Studio.
tell us a little bit about yourself.I’m a New York native who has always dreamed of living by the beach. If you know me I love to laugh and have a great time. “Hair” and fashion are my passions. I’ve been a hair stylist for almost
five years and have been through many intense training programs. Being a hair stylist has led me to believe that there is endless learning, traveling and possibilities within the field. Not to mention I have fabulous hair.
tell us about Mirage Hair studio and your role with the salon.I have been a designer as well as a coordinator within Mirage Hair Studio for over a year. The time I have spent with Mirage has led me to become more advanced in the hair field and I love working with my girls.
what special niche has your business carved out that makes you different from your competitors?We have an extremely relaxed and comfortable atmosphere with highly experienced stylists who have been through the Bumble and Bumble University. We also have a stylist that
is a Pureology educator. We always try to exceed our guest’s expectations through our expertise. We have bi-weekly training classes were we bring models in and learn the season’s newest colors and trends.
what is your best unconventional marketing tip?Meeting and greeting with new people in the area and getting your name out there.
As long as the product is efficient it will sell.
talk briefly about a business goal for 2009. At Mirage our business goal is to expand throughout the Myrtle Beach area. As for my personal business goal, I would love to enhance the beauty and confidence of Myrtle Beach.
Be a star, see Page 24
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Grand stranderBe a star, From Page 23
what’s a typical day like?I get to use my creative side and apply it in my work. We have a blast in the salon and I can’t really consider it a job. Other than that, I work with people all day changing not only their appearance but there self confidence.
what do you enjoy most about your job?Deciding which cut and/or color fits your guest the best. There’s something about having such a strong bond with a person that they will let me take their hair to the limit. I love to bring out the best in someone and keep them as new-age as possible no matter the age or appearance.
How do you measure success?I believe success is about quality not quantity. As long as I know I have exceeded the expectations of each guest, I know I have succeeded. I want to make sure that I am always expanding in my craft and staying up with current education.
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?I have attended many events. The Crown Reef and Kingston Plantation were great places to hear about new businesses and meet new people.
Mirage Hair studio has been a member for two years. Has your membership been worthwhile? what has the Chamber done for you?The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has definitely been worthwhile. Being new to the Grand Strand, the chamber has made it easier on me meeting different companies and helping me become more familiar with the area. The events are always a blast and I know that everyone enjoys their stay.
why i joined the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce?I joined the chamber because I was new to the area and wanted to begin to establish myself in Myrtle Beach. I also wanted to help promote Mirage Hair Studio.
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MeMBer AnniVersAries What’s the secret to long-term success in the Myrtle Beach area business community? Establishing lasting andpersonal relationships with other professionals. What’s the most effective way to do that? Membership in theMyrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. Congratulations to the following companies celebrating membershipanniversaries in November 2008.28 yearsPuckett, Scheetz, Hogan
27 yearsSurfside Realty Co., Inc.
24 yearsM. Timothy Hucks, CPA, PAReady Mixed Concrete Company
23 yearsFederal ExpressJeffcoat Law Firm, LLC
22 yearsHadwin-White Pontiac-Buick-GMC, Inc.Ocean Resorts Rental Management Co. - Shore Dr.
20 yearsBed Man, Inc. Murrells InletBreakers Boutique North Tower
19 yearsThe Prudential - Burroughs & Chapin Realty - 7421 N. Kings Hwy.Sign It QuickWild Water & Wheels
17 yearsGarden City Pancake HouseMonster Coupon BookRobert L. Bellamy & AssociatesSerendipity Inn
16 yearsAlabama TheatreWedding Chapel By The Sea
14 yearsMyrtle Beach Flea Market
13 yearsAmerican ExpressBen & Jerry’s Ice CreamThe BoweryDocusystems, Inc.The Palace Resort
12 yearsDragon’s Lair Fantasy GolfHouse of Blues
11 yearsCamper CountryHampton Inn Pawley’s Island/ LitchfieldKiddie Junction, Inc.Lindsay & Evans, LLC
10 years Adams OutdoorAdvertising of SCBeachwalk MotelFirst Palmetto Savings Bank - NMBInlet Printing Company - MINorth Myrtle Beach TimesSpring House Family Restaurant - MI
9 years First Federal-Dick Pond Rd.
8 years Garden City Storage-Waters, Inc.Jackson Hewitt Tax Service - MBMyrtle Beach Marathon, Inc.Newby, Sartip, Masel, & Casper, LLC
7 yearsFashion BugThe Grand Strand Miracle League, Inc.Two Men And A Truck
6 yearsCoach - Kings Rd.Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate - GeorgetownHampton Inn - WestKitchen Tune-UpLee’s Inlet Apothecary & GiftsMiller Direct, Inc.MROZ MarketingOcean Villas Beach & Racquet Club
5 yearsChristian Academy of Myrtle BeachPaychex, Inc.
4 yearsA Dog’s Way InnAdobe Palm CommunicationsAtlantic Coast Mortgage Group, Inc.Breezin’ UpGreat American Riverboat Co.
3 yearsNorandex ReynoldsOcean Ridge Plantation GolfR.L. Causey, Inc.SunCom - Seaboard St.
2 yearsAgape Senior Garden CityAll Ways GraphicsCanine Command Center, Inc.Century 21 McAlpine Associates, Inc.Coastal TransformationsCommercial Audio, Inc.Compass Marketing, Inc.Condo Lux Real Estate SalesLaura Bowden Designs, Inc.Marvin’sMyrtle Beach Housing AuthorityNature’s Gardens Flowers & Gifts
Nightmare Haunted HouseParker, Poe, Adams and Bernstein, LLCPatrick & Stathos, LLCR Salon and SpaWinestylesWWMB - TV 21
1 yearChick-fil-A Myrtle Beach Drive ThruChili’s Grill & Bar - MBChili’s Grill & Bar - Orchard Rd.Creative Financial StrategiesDogwood Estates at Island GreenDr. Piercing & Dr. TattooEnergy TechnologiesKendall’s Floor to Ceiling - ConwayKendall’s Floor to Ceiling - MIThe Market Common Myrtle BeachMurrells Inlet Marshwalk Marketing GroupPalmetto Restoration, Inc. - A Division of Roto-PatPatriot Management SystemsRagtops & RoadstersRE/MAx Southern LifestylesResort Photography & DesignSouthern RealtyThyssenKrupp ElevatorWok Express
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Grand strander
The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce business directory is offered as a free resource for the local community and visitors to the area. It is the community’s guide to chamber members and the products and services that they offer.
It’s easy to use the online business directory. If Web visitors know the name of the business they are looking for, they can enter the name in the “Name” box. If they are looking for a type of business, they simply use the Category/Keyword box or List All Categories.
Whether someone is in town for the weekend, or a resident of the Myrtle Beach area, they can find everything they need and more in our chamber member directory. Your listing in the chamber’s online member directory is an automatic benefit of being a Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce member. And to top it off, your business receives five free listings in the online business directory with a link to your company’s Web site and e-mail address.
the choice is yoursTo see what business categories are available, go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com and click on Business Directory and List All Categories. To add the categories that best fit your business, simply e-mail your category selections to [email protected].
BeneFit OF tHe MOntH
Shop chamber members first Five free business directory listings
riBBOn-CUttinGCereMOniesYour Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce conducts ribbon-cutting ceremonies as a value-added benefit included in your membership investment. We bring the camera, oversized scissors and, of course, theribbon.
A grand opening, an expansion, an anniversary or a move to a new facility is made more special with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce your business to the community and fellow chamber members. 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.
Your event can be as simple, informal, extravagant or ceremonious as you want it to be. It’s your event and should reflect your company’s values and personality. Ribbon-cutting announcements are included in the Grand Strander, which is mailed to our 2,400 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.
Kick off a grand opening of your business by contacting Pat Creed, membership programs manager, at [email protected] or (843) 916-7225.
ribbon-Cutting Photos, See Pages 24-25
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The chamber recently held ribbon-cutting ceremonies for the following members:
HtC CommunicationsTowne Center3990 River Oaks Dr.Myrtle Beach, SC 29579(843) 365-2151htccommunications.net
Brooks Brothers – Market Common3096 Howard Ave., Space A3-700Myrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 232-0416
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Grand stranderThe chamber recently held ribbon-cutting ceremonies for the following members:
Js elite Flooring1330 17th Ave. S., Ste. AMyrtle Beach, SC 29577(843) 444-0407jseliteflooring.com
First Federal located in lowes Foods at Grande dunes970 82nd Pkwy.Myrtle Beach, SC 29572(843) 497-9841firstfederal.com
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Date Time Event ContactNov 5 9 a.m. Legislative Policy Council Kate Miles, 916-7234Nov 11 8 a.m. Myrtle Beach Ambassadors Pat Creed, 916-7225Nov 11 3:30 p.m. Executive Committee Kate Miles, 916-7234Nov 12 8 a.m. South Strand Ambassadors Pat Creed, 916-7225Nov TBA 3:30 p.m. Membership Committee Shannon Haswell, 916-7240Nov 13 8 a.m. South Strand Council Faye Creel, 916-7286
Nov 15 8 a.m.-4 p.m. gsSCENE Community Service Projects: Habitat for Humanity and Community Kitchen of Myrtle Beach Blakely Jenkins, 916-7232*
Nov 18 8:30-10:30 a.m. gsSCENE Educational Breakfast: Social Media Blakely Jenkins, 916-7232*Nov 18 2:30 p.m. Finance Review Committee Shirley Landry, 916-7203Nov 18 3:30 p.m. Board of Directors Kate Miles, 916-7234
Nov 20 9-11 a.m. Chamber Academy: From Lacking to Lucrative: Tips and Features of Thriving Web Sites Blakely Jenkins, 916-7232*
Nov 20 7-10 p.m. President’s Gala Amie Lee, 916-7238*Nov 25 8:30 a.m. Chamber Access Pat Creed, 916-7225*
Dec 2 9 a.m. Legislative Policy Council Kate Miles, 916-7234Dec 2 2:30 p.m. Convention Bureau Committee Michelle Schollmeyer, 916-7267Dec 3-6 Open Group Tour Task Force Holiday Familiarization Tour Michelle Schollmeyer, 916-7267Dec 5 9 a.m. Legislative Policy Council Kate Miles, 916-7234Dec 9 8 a.m. Myrtle Beach Ambassadors Pat Creed, 916-7225Dec 9 3:30 p.m. Executive Committee Kate Miles, 916-7234Dec 10 8 a.m. South Strand Ambassadors Pat Creed, 916-7225Dec 10 9 a.m. Small Business Council Shannon Haswell, 916-7240Dec 10 11:45 a.m.-2 p.m. Legislative Luncheon Amie Lee, 916-7238*Dec 10 5:30-7:30 p.m. gsSCENE Social: Christmas Celebration at Hard Rock Cafe Blakely Jenkins, 916-7232*Dec 12 3:30 p.m. Membership Committee Shannon Haswell, 916-7240Dec 13 8 a.m. South Strand Council Faye Creel, 916-7286Dec 16 2:30 p.m. Finance Review Committee Shirley Landry, 916-7203Dec 16 3:30 p.m. Board of Directors Kate Miles, 916-7234
nOVeMBer - deCeMBer Calendar
GrAnd strAnderKori Hippe Member Communications Manager Diana Greene Executive Vice President Membership Programs & Services
The Grand Strander, official newsletter of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, is published 12 times a year.
Check us out on the webFor more information about member benefits, upcoming events and business updates, visit us online at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
Advertising inquiries? Reach more than 2,500 business leaders by advertising in the Grand Strander.Scott Head advertising sales manager(843) 916-7277 or [email protected]
Member services Area Code: (843) General Information: 626-7444 Membership Sales: 916-7219 or 7220 Advertising Sales: 916-7277Public Relations: 916-7218Marketing: 916-7276 Research: 916-7217 Executive: 916-7296Convention & Visitors Bureau: 916-7260 gsSCENE: 916-7232 Leadership Grand Strand: 916-7222 Hospitality Partnership: 916-7219 The Grand Strander is printed by Inlet Printing Co.
* Register online at MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com. For the most current meeting/event dates and times, go to MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
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Grand stranderwHere in the world is the CVB? Travel Itinerary for Trade ShowsNov. 10-13 Ontario Motorcoach Association Toronto, CanadaNov. 15-19 National Tour Association Pittsburgh, PA
Fivegroupsrepresenting3,960attendeesarescheduledforserviceinNovember.
Travel Itinerary for Consumer ShowsNov. 7-9 Toronto Women’s Show Toronto, Canada
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Membership DivisionMyrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce,P.O. Box 2115, Myrtle Beach, SC 29578-2115
PERIODICALSU.S. Postage
PAIDMyrtle Beach, SC 29578
uSPS 124-490
PAss GS along! Administration General Manager Human Resources Marketing President SalesShare GS with …________________________________________________________________________
Does your business need help finding a location to hold your holiday party? Are you looking for a special holiday menu and overnight room rates? Do you want a private dining room in a restaurant? Or are you searching for a grand ballroom with a dance floor? There are numerous members of the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce that will deck their halls for you this season. For help in finding the perfect location, let the elves at the Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau go to work for you. E-mail Michelle Schollmeyer, administrative assistant, at [email protected] or call (843) 916-7267.
it’s neVer tOO lAte tO CeleBrAte
CVB can ease the stress of holiday party planning
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