Putting an End to Biker Rallies in Myrtle Beach?

Quite a few websites and blogs about and for motorcycles and rallies are worriedly discussing Myrtle Beach Mayor John Rhodes being quoted as saying,

"We don't care which rally it is, we'd just as soon stop them."

Is it time to encourage the throngs of Harley Bikers and Memorial Day's "black bikers" to take their rallies elsewhere? Many would say it's past time.

Both weeks are becoming increasingly troublesome every year. The amount of taxpayer's money that is spent on extra police manpower for both is ridiculous. Even the FBI gets involved with the Harley bikers in fear of rival gangs starting riots and resulting bloodshed. Though it hasn't happened at any of our rallies, the fear is always there, as well as the cost.

Each year one or more bikers are killed in road accidents due to alcohol consumption and/or carelessness on our already crowded streets. This year a local businessman may find himself in prison for a fatal accident in which he, himself may have had a few drinks too many to handle the hard-to-see bikes weaving in and out between cars on many of the residential roads.

Memorial Day has been lost to our beach as a family holiday for years now. Between the spectacle of many women with their posteriors high in the air with thong bathing suits or underwear, to the impossible traffic blockage in North Myrtle Beach because of the two streets given over to the black bikers congregating in the Atlantic Beach area, most families are avoiding us like the plague on Memorial Day. The ones who aren't fortunate enough to know what they will be contending with may well leave the Grand Strand and never come again.

The NAACP hovers over both weeks with a magnifying glass to be sure that every situation is handled equally...but the two festivals are different, in different locations, and with different problems. Our town councils and the county don't dare try to enforce law and order in Atlantic Beach for fear of being sued for discrimination, yet now are being sued by a resident of the town because his wife had a heart attack and the traffic prevented them from getting her to the hospital in a timely manner. It's a no-win situation, and not worth the cost and headaches to continue supporting the rallies. We can't have one without having both, and neither of them bring anything positive to the cities.

After the Memorial Day rally, a group calling itself the "Grand Strand Connection" has gathered officials, clergy, hotel and restaurant owners and other businessmen together to try and find an answer to the motorcycle problems. Councilman Mike Chestnut rejected a request for financial aid for the Memorial Day event because he reasons that we don't invest in other ones. He then was quoted as saying the City Council is going to "shut it down".

The Grand Strand is struggling to change its image from a cheap party town to a respectable resort with luxury oceanfront condos and high dollar Myrtle Beach real estate. One has to wonder if the "new Myrtle Beach" can continue to co-exist with the decadent behavior and raucous noise of hoards of bikers, particularly on a holiday weekend that is badly needed to fill up all the expensive resorts and help the condo owners to meet the considerable costs of keeping their vacation homes. Most resorts don't allow motorcycles on the premises. As more and more of the older hotels eventually give way to luxury condos, the problem will escalate.

We've already practically shut down the influx of spring- breakers who used to gather here, gladly letting them choose to go to Daytona or elsewhere for their "Girls Gone Wild" escapades. This was mostly accomplished by clamping down on the public drinking and perhaps even harassing the students until they found it unpleasant to spend time in Myrtle Beach.

It may be time to put an end to all of the large groups of partiers, and make Myrtle Beach a better place for family vacationers as well as retirees and locals. The payoff is no longer equal to the cost. The problem now is HOW to convince the bikers to gather elsewhere and make the Grand Strand bike rallies a thing of the past. It's not that we don't like bikers because they are bikers, but the sheer numbers and pandemonium that comes with it doesn't seem to fit the new Myrtle Beach image - at least that's what many of the local residents seem to think.

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The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel: A Destination in Itself

Recently I took a drive up the Eastern Shore and visited Georgetown, DE and Ocean City, MD. It was my first time to the area, and the I enjoyed the drive as much as the destinations.

One highlight of the trip was crossing over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel (CBBT). The cost is $12.00 each way, but well worth it. The Bridge Tunnel is amazing. It connects the Virginia mainland at Virginia Beach to the Eastern Shore and streamlines any trip North of Wilmington, DE by cutting 95 miles off the trip.

The bridge was selected as "One of the Seven Engineering Wonders of the Modern World" when it opened in 1964. To meet traffic demands, a parallel bridge was started in 1995 and once again drew attention to the remarkable construction and engineering.

The bridge is so long that it seemed to disappear in the distance. Hundreds of seagulls stop for a break from the wide open waters and rest on the rails and street lights.

The CBBT is 20 miles long and includes 2 one mile long tunnels. It also carries US 13, the main north-south highway on Virginia's Eastern Shore.

My buddy Jan will be happy to know that the CBBT offers a driving assistance program where the police arrange for an employee to assist and drive a customer's vehicle across the bridge-tunnel when they have a phobia that prevents them from doing so themselves. The management offers the driver as a complimentary community service and states that it prevents unsafe driving conditions that could occur due to any phobia presenting itself. The Police Department arranges the escort and can be reached at 757-331-2960. There are occasionally wait times.

If you're a bird watcher, you can observe birds and waterfowl resting on one of the four man-made islands. The concrete, steel, asphalt and rocks make a perfect resting spot for birds migrating in the spring and fall.

There's also a great fishing pier that gives you the opportunity to leave the boat and home, and still enjoy a deep sea fishing experience. Sea Gull Pier is open year round and is wheel chair accessible. No fishing license is required, and there is no fee except to $12.00 per vehicle to access the bridge itself.

I stopped in the restaurant/gift shop and strolled around. They have complete menu for breakfast lunch and dinner, along with plenty of mementos of your trip across the bridge-tunnel.

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel was definitely impressive and one of the highlights of my trip to the Eastern Shore.

Where to dine in Myrtle Beach this summer

With the change in Myrtle Beach vacation landscape from cheap oceanfront property and hotels to the majority of luxury condos and resorts that line our beach, restaurants in Myrtle Beach have also seen a sea change. Although you can still find the "all you can eat buffets" here and there, we've been largely overtaken by the fine dining restaurants, and often the national or at least regional chain dining establishments.

While this may sound disappointing to some, it won't be. We've undoubtedly got the best choice of dining of any area in the south, I think. In fact, the hardest part of having dinner is trying to decide where to go, even after you've made the decision of what to eat!

As a single person who eats out almost every single day, I feel qualified to give some advice on some of the most exciting places to eat in Myrtle Beach, and back it up with experience.
Here are my favorites, grouped mostly by type of food...

The Best Steak and Prime Rib:

1. Flamingos Bar & Grill in Myrtle Beach would have to be my all around number one pick for the best steak, salad, bread, and best of all, bernaise sauce. The steaks are some of the most flavorful, flame grilled, best graded cuts of meat around. Pair that with the best bernaise sauce in town, homemade bleu cheese dressing on a salad of tender mixed greens, hard to find "new" potatoes instead of the same old baked potato, and even steamed asparagus as a side item. The meal comes with sugar peas as the green vegetable, but I will pay extra and have that tender aspargus sharing the scrumptious bernaise.

Flamingos is famous also for their appetizer called fried lobster bites, which is chunk lobster meat rolled in breading and fried. They also offer traditional apps such as shrimp cocktail, and a southern favorite, She Crab Soup. They are also on the top of my list for premium fried and grilled shrimp and lobster. AAA+

2. Joe's Bar & Grill - Located across from Barefoot Landing on a little back road next to Olive Garden, Joe's is not at all what the name implies. This is very much a fine dining restaurant with some of the best steaks to be found anywhere.

Their specialty is green beans, of all things. They take fresh green beans and steam them with (I think) prime rib juice, tomatoes, and onions. I've never tasted anything so good, and I could eat a pound of them! Their salads are also good, with homemade dressings, and they have many "low country" dishes such as shrimp and grits that are excellent. Joe's B&G has a much larger menu than Flamingos, and I can't remember much of it. The dishes are all unusual and very very good. And if you smoke, you can sit on the porch and watch raccoons run up and down a little walkway where they feed them bread. The restaurant overlooks the marshland between 17 and the ocean, and is a great dining experience.

3. Liberty's Steak House - Broadway at the BeachThere are two Libertys...one is on 17 Business at around 60th Ave in Myrtle Beach. This one is bigger and better. The steaks are some of the best around, as well as the prime rib. The appetizer I can't get enough of is fried crawfish bites. They offer all of the regular steak and prime rib dishes, as well as some seafood and lots of good appetizers. Their specialty is their mini-brewery, and all the kinds of homemade beer they offer. Try the "nut brown ale" for a real tasty drink.

The salads are good, the bread is homemade, and all around this steak house is a bit less expensive. It also offers the atmosphere of Broadway, and is open fairly late.

If you have any other favorite steak and prime rib places, please feel free to comment and add them. I'll do another posting on seafood and maybe start a trend here.

Visit Myrtle Beach Restaurants for more information.

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North Myrtle Beach celebrates 40th birthday

Original Story...
North Myrtle Beach celebrates 40th birthday
Wednesday, May 07, 2008 - 06:38 AM
By WBTW Staff Reports

The City of North Myrtle Beach will celebrate the 40th anniversary Wednesday. According to a press release, the city will offer tours to the public, video interviews, a special ceremony and recognition of many of the people who have contributed to the City’s success.

Beginning at 9 a.m., the City will be conducting guided tours of all City buildings and offices. The tours are open to the public. Those interested are invited to tour City Hall, any of North Myrtle Beach’s five fire stations, the Public Safety Building, Support Services, the J. Bryan Floyd Community Center and the Aquatic & Fitness Center. Guided tours will conclude at 4 p.m.

The ceremony celebrating the 40 years of North Myrtle Beach’s incorporation will begin at 11 a.m. at City Hall. The ceremony will include the color guard, an invocation, remarks by Mayor Marilyn Hatley, and remarks by some former mayors of the City and other North Myrtle Beach dignitaries. There also will be a reception in City Hall following the approximately one-hour ceremony. The public is invited to both the ceremony and the reception.

The City of North Myrtle Beach was formed in 1968 when four small beach towns – Cherry Grove Beach, Ocean Drive Beach, Crescent Beach and Windy Hill Beach – consolidated into one community.

Located on the northern coastline of South Carolina, the city encompasses 14.81 square miles including nine uninterrupted miles of beautiful beaches.

North Myrtle Beach, which operates under a council-manager form of government, has nearly 13,000 year-round residents and receives 3.5 million tourists each year.

Myrtle Beach Real Estate

North Myrtle Beach Betters Its Big Sister?

In an editorial in Tradingmarkets.com today, I found an article about plans for North Myrtle Beach's annex of 1363 acres along the waterway, and up to Grande Dunes "west".

I've always been partial to North Myrtle Beach myself. As a teenager, our "cool" group at Ragsdale High School in Jamestown, NC refused to participate in some of the normal teenage pasttimes...from circling McDonalds (so, so uncool!) to circling the Pavilion at Myrtle Beach. Instead, we all went to Ocean Drive and tried to find a bar that wouldn't check your ID...or at least someone old enough to buy your beer for you.

In those days, North Myrtle Beach had several arcade areas that were pretty wide open, and full of people...kids, teens, adults...and lots of beer. We hung out at the "Horseshoe" and chuckled over the rednecks hanging out at the kiddie rides and redneck bars like The Bowery.

And when nobody was looking, we might drive down there and go round the block once or twice just to see if we were missing anything. It was seldom that we were. Ocean Drive had it all for most of us.

And according to this article, North Myrtle Beach may be superior in adult virtues as well. To quote:

"Attracted by the city's superior public services and stable property-tax rate, [Developers] practically beg the city to redraw its boundaries to include their acreage. Not for nothing did a city councilman joke a few years back that the city could annex its way along S.C. 9 to the city limits of Loris if it wanted to."

Vacationers from the Carolinas to the northern states have always had a hard time distinguishing between Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach. Most don't understand that there are two separate cities. All summer long, the locals are stopped to point out where 71st Ave North is in Ocean Drive. (It ISN'T)

If North Myrtle Beach decides to annex this huge new section of land, then Myrtle Beach real estate could become less of the top dog, and more of an equal to our Shag Capital of the World. This particular annexation project would be bigger than the waterway portion of Grande Dunes - much bigger. The numbers crunch at 10,000 residential units, from condos to single family homes, and 4.3 million sq ft of commercial real estate space.

North Myrtle's planners are being very particular about the developers and the developments discussed. They would have to invest millions in police personnell, fire, water, and other city management costs. But the huge growth would really change the climate of North Myrtle Beach from the small-town residential beach that it once was to a major vacation mecca that Myrtle Beach has long boasted.

Already most of the local residents tend to live on the outskirts of the two beaches. I have a condo in Little River, SC, about 2 miles from Cherry Grove Beach. The most wealthy of the business owners here tend to choose Pawleys Island real estate for their multi-million dollar homes.

Myrtle Beach beach houses generally are used only for vacation rentals, as are almost all of the oceanfront condos in Myrtle Beach. North Myrtle is no different. Between the outrageous tax rates, hurricane scares, and ability to generate rental income, most of the beachfront and beachview real estate in Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach is not residential.

I have also heard rumors of Little River being a possible annexation target for North Myrtle Beach real estate. I would welcome it, taxes and all. To have such a superior police and fire department (instead of Horry County) would be worth the extra expense. And hopefully some of the Little River eyesores, such as that flea market and other run-down buildings would be eliminated.

North Myrtle Beach is the best all around city in South Carolina as far as I'm concerned!

Jan is a guest blogger on Beach Living. See also our newest Myrtle Beach Blog !

Check out the New T3 Police Cruisers

It kind of looks like a suped up Jazzy chair, but this vehicle won the 2007 Innovation Award for Best Vehicle and the Spark Award at the International Spark Design Awards. The T3 vehicles are electric motorized three wheel vehicles and the city of Myrtle Beach just purchased three of them for the police force.

The T3s are designed and manufactured by T3 Motion, Inc. with public safety officers and private security markets in mind. It is set to travel at 12 miles per hour and gets officers out of their cars, onto the streets, and interacting with the public. They increase mobility, and are fuel efficient and environmentally friendly.

Perfect for Myrtle Beach in the busy tourist season.

The T3s were purchased with $30,000.00 in seized drug money and the city has trained 30 officers how to use them. Officers will begin cruising around on them Monday and will be used in The Market Common area and Third Avenue South to 21st Avenue North.

They're designed to help officers tackle many of their daily functions, including patrolling public areas. The T3's improve the efficiency of the police force; they cover more ground more quickly, and reduce fatigue which is important during our hot summer months.

It's exciting technology and Lt. Richard Show of the Myrtle Beach Police Department told The Sun News that we are one of only two areas in the state using the vehicles.

We're always looking to make things better in the Grand Stand! If your interested in one of our many Oceanfront condos, or any other Myrtle Beach real estate, be sure to visit the Myrtle Beach Condos .net website. They specialize in oceanfront condos in Myrtle Beach and can help you find the perfect home.

The Market Common: All about Location

It lacks visibility. It lacks familiarity. Many Myrtle Beach residents have no idea where it is and zip right by it! And... that's just the way developers planned it.

The Market Common is tucked away and off the beaten path, nestled in between Kings Highway and the bypass. Clayton McCaffery, vice president of leasing for McCaffery Interests, told The Sun News that they would have never done this project right on Highway 17 or the Bypass.

McCaffery Interests is developing The Market Common. The vision was to make another shopping area off of the main interstate, but to create an urban village in an area that allowed room for expansion and creativity. It will be an hot spot for Myrtle Beach condos and Myrtle Beach real estate, where residents live amongst shops and residential properties are mixed with commercial real estate.

Now that the The Market Common is making it 's debut, expect to hear a lot more buzz and see more billboards and other advertisements. This is one of the most exciting projects launching in the city of Myrtle Beach!

Interested in a Fixer-Upper?

I'm a do it your selfer... I've tackled tile, minor wall repairs, painting and this weekend, I took out an ugly light fixture and brightened up my dining area with a great ceiling fan.

It's one of the things I love about the Myrtle Beach real estate market; there are some fantastic deals available if you are willing to put in some TLC.

Many of the condos in Myrtle Beach have deeply discounted pricing because they need a bit of work. Take my condo for example. The light fixtures were dated, the carpet was mauve, and it needed some fresh paint. It's been a lot of work, but when I sit back and look at all that I have accomplished, I give myself a little pat on the back.

Plus, my hard work has paid off. Not only do I love the new look, but I've significantly increased my property value.

If you want to grab yourself a great deal and put in a little elbow grease, there are a lot of Myrtle Beach condos right up your alley. The Myrtle Beach Condo Store can help and will find you the perfect fixer upper that will be a fantastic investment and a fun project to work on.

There is Plenty of Sunshine in Myrtle Beach!

If it still feels like winter, and you are shivering from the cold... hop in your car or jump on a plane and head to Myrtle Beach! It's sunny and warm most days in the early spring and perfect for a bike ride or stroll on the beach.

It's easy to get to from Myrtle Beach from most major cities in the Northeast, and we have affordable air service with airlines like Spirit and Air Tran. We also have service with major airlines like USAir, Continental and Delta.

There are 60 miles of coastline along the Ocean and it's a golfer's paradise with more than 100 golf courses in the area. With so many amenities, the Myrtle Beach real estate market gets a tremendous boost from snowbirds who are looking for Myrtle Beach condos as second homes.

Many resorts offer swimming pools and ocean access. If your family is sports minded, there are plenty resorts with golfing, tennis, and bike trails available that are just minutes from the beach.

It's the perfect place to stay and play!

Myrtle Beach Sun Fun Expands

Traditionally the Myrtle Beach Sun Fun festival includes a parade, sand castle building competition, and beauty pageants to attract both locals and tourist in the Grand Strand area. This year the Chamber of Commerce, which organizes the event, hopes to expand the celebration throughout the summer months.

The chamber hopes to extend the opening events in June to include two weekends and then continue concerts, kids programs and festivals, and other competitions throughout the remaining summer months.

Tentative plans include wave runner competitions, volleyball tournaments and surfing competitions.

The tourism leaders are even extending the festival activities from the downtown Myrtle Beach area to The Market Common; which is a new residential, shopping and dining complex at the old Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. Festivities will kick off at The Market Common on June 7th with fireworks and a concert.

Sun Fun will encompass the entire Myrtle Beach area, but don't worry! There will still be plenty to do in the downtown area, where the events are traditionally held. The chamber plans the double the amount of events that will take place in the heart of the city.

We're going to have a fantastic summer in Myrtle Beach. If you are interested in a second home, this is the perfect place to consider! Myrtle Beach real estate is a great investment opportunity and The Myrtle Beach Condo Store can help you with 1031 Tax Exchanges and will also show you a variety of Myrtle Beach Condos available.

Keeping Costs Low

County spokesperson, Lisa Bourcier, told The Sun News that bids submitted for the new general aviation terminal at Myrtle Beach were much higher than the $4 million that was budgeted for the project.

Seven companies submitted bids and the lowest bid was $1 million over budget. The county plants to have the architects working on the project get together next week to determine how to lower the costs of building the terminal.

It usually takes about two weeks to wrap things up and finalize contracts once a bid is accepted, but it's going to take longer for this project as the county works to lower the cost.

The airport is within the Myrtle Beach city limits and is run by Horry County. The current terminal is in an old military terminal and services private planes.

If you're interested in living in our town, visit the Myrtle Beach Condo Store websites. The Condo Store is affiliated with Keller Williams in Myrtle Beach and specializes in Myrtle Beach condos, Pawleys Island condos and 1031 Tax Exchanges.

Bike Week 2008 is going to Rock

Bike Week in Myrtle Beach is literally going to rock this year thanks to the Myrtle Beach Hard Rock Theme Park. The park has secured concerts with Charlie Daniels and .38 Special during the Mid-May Bike Week.

Concerts at the park will be held in the Born in the USA section of the park and regular performances are included in your ticket price.

The Hard Rock Amphitheatre can seat 2000 visitors, has standing room for 10,000 and will also have room for 8000 more fans on the lawn! The park plans to have local and regional groups as entertainment during the day with 6-8 headliners the first year.

This year Bike Week runs from May 9th- 18th, with a fall rally planned for October 1st-5th.

This town always has something going on! If you are interested in Pawleys Island real estate, Myrtle Beach real estate or 1031 Tax Exchanges, be sure to contact David O'Connell at The Condo Store. David can be reached 843-455-5500 and can offer you a no obligation evaluation of your needs.

Ruth's Chris Steakhouse coming to Grande Dunes

Hooray! There's a new steak in town. A spokesman for Burroughs & Chapin Co. Inc. confirmed that Ruth's Chris Steak House will be opening at Grande Dunes on March 24.

For those of you who have not had the pleasure of dining at a Ruth's Chris Steak House, they are internationally renowned for their unbeatable USDA Prime steak. Each steak is aged for tenderness with a cut that ensures that the steak will be juicy, and then it is seared to absolute perfection at 1800 degrees.

You can literally hear your steak coming as they bring it to your table on a 500 degree platter. It stays nice and warm through your entire meal.

The 9,500 square-foot restaurant have about 115 employees and serves dinner daily. Ruth's Chris also has market fresh seafood and choices for vegetarians.

It's one more luxury that is making Myrtle Beach great! If you are interested in living in our community, there is a variety of Myrtle Beach real estate available. Contact David O'Connell at 843-455-5500. David specializes in oceanfront condos in Myrtle Beach and 1031 Tax Exchanges.

McLean Park's Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Saturday, March 22, 2008 is going to be another great day for North Myrtle Beach residents. The city is going to have it's annual easter egg hunt at McLean Park and it's going to fun for kids of all ages.

Egg hunting areas are set up for all age groups: 2 and under, 3-5 year olds, 6-8 year olds, 9-11 year olds, and ages 12 and up.

McLean Park is a 10 acre park that is the perfect location for the festivities. It features a two-acre lake, multiple grills for family cookouts after the egg hunt, a quarter mile walking trail, tennis courts and restroom facilities.

It's going to be exciting for the younger children because the Easter Bunny is going to stop by for a visit and hand out candy. The North Strand Optimist Club will also have activities, attractions and refreshments for the event.

The event is free and everyone is welcome! Call the North Myrtle Beach Parks and Recreation department if you need additional informaton: 843-280-5570.

You know I love this area. It's a great place to live. If you are interested in owning a piece of paradise, call David O'Connell directly at 843-455-5500. David specializes in North Myrtle Beach real estate, as well as Myrtle Beach condos and Myrtle Beach resorts.

Keeping NMB Safe

Last week, the six officers who make up North Myrtle Beach's Beach Patrol completed personal watercraft training (PWC). This makes the team the only rescue technician instructors along the East Coast certified by Rescue Training International (RTI).

It's just one more way that the Grand Strand demonstrates that that safety is the number one priority while residents and tourists alike enjoy our beaches during the summer.

The team is now trained in maneuvering in rough surf, rip current rescues, victim towing and more. In addition to the six patrol officers completing the instruction, five of the cities head lifeguards were also certified with RTI as PWC technicians.

All of the North Myrtle Beach lifeguards participate in RTI training and combined with the PWC techs, it makes the team highly skilled and well qualified to protect residents and visitors during the busy tourist season.

Come and enjoy the fun! You might just want to stay.

If you would like to see some of the great North Myrtle Beach condos for sale or any other Myrtle Beach real estate, be sure to visit the Myrtle Beach Condo Store websites.

Towers on the Grove

While perusing web articles and newspapers to find interesting info for my blog, I came across this great new construction project that is well underway and ahead of schedule: Towers on the Grove. It replaces Cherry Grove Manor, a popular vacation spot for families in the Northern end of North Myrtle Beach.

If you are interested in North Myrtle Beach condos, this is a property you definitely want to want to keep in mind. The building is going to be incredibly snazzy and will be absolutely spectacular when the project is complete. Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, private beach access, a full service restaurant, and commercial real estate space for a variety of specialty shops.

The units feature upscale furniture and accessories including granite counter tops in the kitchens and baths, at least one jacuzzi style tub, as well as tiled entryways, kitchens and baths. There is also a custom furniture selection available that includes flat screen TVs.

Upgraded packages are available and include stainless steel appliances, ceiling fans, deluxe cabinetry, crown molding and the option of a custom tile backsplash in the kitchen.

What's amazing about these oceanfront condos in North Myrtle Beach is that there is a starting price point of just $149,900. Towers on the Grove will have floor plans ranging from affordable efficiencies to prestigious three bedroom condos with oceanfront views.

Wouldn't it be great to scoot down the elevators, stop the by the on-site lounge to grab a pina colada, head out to the tropical pool deck and then float around on the lazy river on your day off? This property really is the total package.

If you would like more information about Towers on the Grove or any other condo in the Myrtle Beach area, visit the Myrtle Beach Condo Store websites.

Small Businesses have Eye on Future Profits

Most people driving by the Waccamaw Pottery probably have their eyes on the Hard Rock Theme Park, but several small business owners have their eye on future profits.

Some small businesses in the area have been around a long time, but more recently Myrtle Beach businessmen have been eyeing the area. Experts say that the theme park can expect to draw between 25,000 and 30,000 customers each day and the hope is that being so close to the action will be great for business.

Joseph Carver told SCNow.com that he thought Waccamaw Pottery would be the perfect location for his sandwich shop “Coasters.” Even though the park hasn’t opened yet, he says the he is already getting new customers because of the draw of the theme park.

All in all, the influx of tourist into the area is going to be great for a variety of businesses and will help make the local economy even stronger.

If you are interested in making an investment in Myrtle Beach real estate, commercial real estate or 1031 tax exchanges, contact David O’Connell directly at 843-455-5500. David is affiliated with Keller Williams and specializes in property along the Grand Strand.

Spirit Expands Air Service from Myrtle Beach to Orlando

Starting June 12 , Spirit Airlines will begin direct flights between Myrtle Beach and Orlando.

The competition is heating up with Spirit Airlines making the announcement on the heals of Allegiant Air announcing that they were beginning non-stop Orlando flights from Wilmington.

It’s a quick flight departing from Myrtle Beach at 11:05am and arriving at the Orlando International Airport (MCO) at 12:35p. You could be in Disney by 2:00pm!

Return flights are expected to depart Orlando at 4:15pm and with arrivals back into the Grand Strand by 5:45pm.

It’s great to see Spirit Airlines expand routes in the Myrtle Beach area. Currently Spirit carries more than 318,000 passengers each year to and from the Myrtle Beach area.

Not only will Myrtle Beach residents be flying south, but it is expected that the expanded route will give the Orlando residents a chance to check out our new, exciting theme park. Golfers will also enjoy the chance to visit our less crowded courses while staying in one of our great oceanfront condos in Myrtle Beach.

Who knows? It might just lead to a second home purchase of one of our great Myrtle Beach resorts.

Tanger Outlet gets Multi-Million Dollar Facelift

The Myrtle Beach Tanger outlets, located at HWY 501 and HWY 17, offer a collection of over 200 brand name outlet stores and welcome nearly 10 million enthusiastic shoppers year.

Tanger began a $20 million makeover project last December at the HWY 501 location. The design will have the charm of small town America, combined with the whimsy of Victorian accents.

Stanley K. Tanger, Chairman and CEO of Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. told The Earth News that renovation projects are an important investment in the economic growth of their shopping centers as well as the communities that they are a part of.

Myrtle Beach is one of the nation’s top vacation destinations and offers a variety of accommodations from oceanfront condos in Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas, to resorts with an island feel, as well as hotel accommodations ranging from 2-4 star.

The $20 million makeover ensures that the HWY 501 Tanger shopping center will continue to draw customers and be a location that is vibrant and attractive for many years to come. Plans include a Main Street style storefront where shoppers will stroll streetscapes that have a pleasant park-like feel. There will be seating areas to relax and landscape touches that are reminiscent of gardens.

The work is expected to be completed this fall and is just one more way that our area continues to grow and to improve upon itself.

If your interested in owning Myrtle Beach real estate or in 1031 Exchange information, contact David O'Connell directly at 843-455-5500. David specializes in Myrtle Beach commercial real estate and 1031 transactions

Updates and Improvements for MB Transit System

It’s an exciting year for Myrtle Beach with many updates and improvements in the works for our transit system. Residents and Vacationers can expect to see the groundbreaking for Myrtle Beach International’s new air terminal, an expanded bus system and new roads.

The focus is on increasing ways people can get to the Grand Strand and making it a breeze for them to get around town once they arrive.

Mike Barbee, a project manager for the SC Department of Transportation told The Sun News that if a vacationer comes here this year and spends a lot of time sitting in traffic, next year they may decide to go somewhere else.

Myrtle Beach real estate owners and residents of surrounding areas will love the Main Street connector in North Myrtle Beach. It’s slated to open in spring 2009. The $85 million project will connect to SC 31 and drop you directly off in the heart of North Myrtle Beach, eliminating a tremendous amount of traffic on HWY 17.

A friend who rents one of the oceanfront condos in North Myrtle Beach says she is excited about the new connector and how easy it is going to be to get to the south end and shop without having to fuss with the traffic.

MB Airport Expanding

The Myrtle Beach Airport will begin construction on a $4 million general aviation terminal in 2008 and hopes to complete the project by 2009. The new terminal is going to provide service for private and charter flights.

Plans include an 11,000 square foot building that has conference rooms, a lounge for the pilots and office space.

The airport is also working to bring new carriers to the terminals. The new carriers will open new routes to and from the area, and the competition will help keep ticket prices low.

Don Schunk, economist with Coastal Carolina University, told The Sun News that travelers fly to neighboring airports because it's less expensive, and it's important for Myrtle Beach to open more options for air service.

Vacationers and business professionals alike want the convenience of an airport that has a variety of nonstop and direct routes available at affordable prices. These factors help drive a strong market for Myrtle Beach real estate. It makes it easier for someone to own a second home in the Grand Strand if they don't have to drive 2 hours from Charleston because of pricing and flight availability.

Myrtle Beach gets better everyday! If you are interested in Myrtle Beach condos or other real estate in the Grand Strand, contact the Myrtle Beach Condo Store.

Myrtle Beach Job Fair a Big Success

The job market is on the upswing for the Grand Strand area. The annual job fair was much busier than in recent years and that's a great indication that there will be strong job growth. In fact, Don Schunk, a research economist with Coastal Grand University, told The Sun News that with the new information from the sate, he will be increasing his original estimates of job growth from 3.2%.

The strong local economy is fantastic news for those who live in Myrtle Beach, and for business owners of commercial real estate.

Approximately 140 companies were actively seeking new employees, and over 5200 potential candidates made their way to the Myrtle Beach Convention Center center to turn in resumes.

One of the major driving forces in this positive trend is the opening of Hard Rock Park, which is opening in April. The park expects to hire on an additional 3000 employees throughout the upcoming year.

The improved job market should have a nice impact on our real estate market with entry level employees looking for affordable condos in Myrtle Beach, as well as condos in Little River, Pawleys Island, North Myrtle Beach and other surrounding areas.

Parks for Pawleys (update)

Residents from the Waccamaw Neck area are meeting at Waccamaw High School to look at several preliminary parks and recreation projects being put together for the area.

Several proposed projects are exciting and include four tournament-level soccer fields and a tennis court complex that has up to 32 courts and a pro shop!

Baseball fields and multi-use fields are also in the plans. It's fantastic news for those who own homes in Pawleys Island, Murrells Inlet and Litchfield Beach. The amenities enhance the quality of life for all the area residents and the health benefits of fostering an active lifestyle are invaluable .

Residents will be able to view the proposed plans for their communities at the Georgetown Middle School auditorium at 6pm on Thursday.

Four public input meetings are planned and then cost estimates will be prepared for further discussion.

If you own Pawleys Island property or real estate in the surrounding area, this is a great time to get involved in your community and show support for the proposed projects. Attending the Georgetown County Council meetings is a great way to start. Those meetings take place at 5:30pm on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month. For more information call 843-545-3058 or visit the Georgetown County webpage.

Tax Rebate Should Boost Myrtle Beach Economy

The government has an economic stimulus plan that is set to rebate tax revenue to about 136 million Americans. The amounts range between $300-$1200 are set to start arriving in homes across the U.S. in May.

It's the start of the tourist season, so the timing is perfect for Myrtle Beach businesses. The rebates could have a substantial effect on the local economy. Those checks will arrive just in time to be cashed and hopefully spent in the pursuit of happiness here at the Strand.

The extra money could mean an upgrade in room accommodations, an extra night of vacation, or more money being spent with our local retailers.

It's also great for those who own private Myrtle Beach real estate or commercial real estate. Those checks are will go a long way towards sprucing up properties and will benefit our local home improvement stores.

All in all, there are big hopes that the money will help jump-start the local and national economy. We'll have to wait until May to see, but I can't wait to get my check! I promise to do my part to help the economy and will not save one dime of it.

More Parks for Pawleys

A group of concerned parents from Pawleys Island met Friday night at the local library to discuss the recreational facilities in the city. The group feels that the current recreation areas are few and far in between, as well as in disrepair.

Public amenities contribute to a healthy housing market. Improving local park and recreation fascilities can only benefit the community and owners of Pawleys Island real estate.

It’s important for a community to have the sense of connection that a park brings. Whether it’s relaxing and enjoying a sunset, taking your dog for a brisk walk, or bringing friends and family together for a cookout; public amenities enrich the neighborhood and those who live there.

The concerned citizens plan to take their concerns to a county council meeting next week that's being held in Georgetown.

For those who rent or own homes in Pawleys Island, you can get involved by attending the Georgetown County Council meetings at 5:30pm on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month. For more information call 843-545-3058 or visit the Georgetown County webpage.

Keeping North Myrtle Beach Beautiful

Wednesday marked the kick off of The Great American Cleanup of South Carolina. It’s a fantastic program that focuses on cleaning up parks, neighborhoods, beaches and other areas of South Carolina, including North Myrtle Beach.

Volunteers state that cigarette butts are one of the main things they are constantly picking up. Bottles come in second. Participants want to show locals and tourists alike that they are proud of the city and care enough about North Myrtle Beach to pick up trash that doesn’t belong to them.

When others see their cleanup efforts, they may think twice before flicking a cigarette butt into the sand.

Keep America Beautiful sponsors The Great American Cleanup and is the nation’s largest volunteer-based community action and education organization. They promote the idea that we all have an obligation to preserve and protect our environment. Three areas that Keep America Beautiful focuses on are preventing litter, reducing waste and beautifying communities.

The postive effects are far-reaching. Owners of commercial real estate, single family homes, and oceanfront condos in North Myrtle Beach alike will benefit from the local efforts of The Great American Cleanup.

If you would like to participate in the efforts of keep North Myrtle Beach beautiful, visit http://www.palmettopride.com/.

Community Working Together for Cleaner Water

There’s great news for owners of homes in Pawleys Island and Murrells Inlet. Officials from Coastal Carolina University are establishing a volunteer water monitoring program that will help meet the areas new requirements for storm water management.

Susan Libs, professor of marine science at CCU told The Myrtle Beach Sun News that they will be working to characterize sources of land based pollution.

Community involvement is key and volunteers will help monitor the water on a bi-weekly basis. After gathering data on the quality of the water, steps can be taken to improve the water quality by identifying sources of pollution.

Fresh, clean water is an important environmental asset of the area and helps foster our thriving tourist industry.

Volunteers are trained to test for various water pollutants including E coli bacteria. They will also monitor nitrogen and ammonia levels. It’s all part of keeping the waterways clean and healthy, which is fantastic for those who own Pawleys Island property and Murrells Inlet homes.

Get Ready for Some Fun!

Whether you come to Myrtle Beach to vacation, or own your own piece of Myrtle Beach real estate, there will always be plenty of sunshine and activities for you and your family to enjoy.

The Sun News voted The Family Kingdom Amusement Park the best Family Amusement Value in Myrtle Beach.

The park offers over 30 rides and attractions and is conveniently located on Ocean Boulevard in the heart of the city. There are plenty of games, family entertainment, and an electrifying wooden roller coaster. It also features the largest ferris wheel in the state of South Carolina. (And who can resist the cotton candy, corndogs and funnel cakes?)

Serving the area for more than 40 years, Family Kingdom is a tradition for locals and visitors alike.

Don’t forget to visit The Family Kingdom Water Park. It’s located directly across from the amusment park and offers waterflumes, speed slides and a relaxing lazy river.

It's the perfect place for a corperate outing or church function. Family Kingdom offers discounts to groups of 16 or more. They also have three group dining menus available which would be a great way to take the hassle out of your next family reunion.

Come to Myrtle Beach and discover the fun! If you would like more information about The Family Kingdom Amusement park, be sure to visit their website: www.family-kingdom.com