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LEADERSHIP GRAND STRAND CLASS XXXII CELEBRATES GRADUATION IN CEREMONY MAY 6
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contacts:
Diana Greene
Executive Director
Leadership Grand Strand
(843) 916-7222
Diana.Greene@VisitMyrtleBeach.com
LEADERSHIP GRAND STRAND CLASS XXXII CELEBRATES GRADUATION IN CEREMONY MAY 6
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. ? The 23 participants of Class XXXII will graduate May 6 from Leadership Grand Strand during a ceremony at Pine Lakes Country Club in Myrtle Beach. The reception, sponsored by Santee Cooper, will begin at 6 p.m. and will be followed by dinner. The graduation commencement will begin at 7:30 p.m., and the Ann DeBock Leadership Award will be presented to 2012 recipient Dr. Debbie Conner during the ceremony.
The Leadership Grand Strand Executive Committee for 2012-13 will also be announced at the graduation ceremony. It includes: John Sawyer, chair; O?Neil McCoy, chair-elect, Jeffrey Wisniewski, secretary; Brent Musick, treasurer and Julie Kopnicky will serve as an at-large board member for three years.
The goal of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce sponsored LGS program is to develop a corps of informed, committed and qualified individuals capable of providing dynamic leadership for the Grand Strand area.
For class participants to graduate, they must complete a nine-month program and a minimum of 100 hours of community service. This year, participants assisted the Salvation Army Angel Tree project, Youth Leadership Academy and the Adopt-A-Highway program.
Graduates of Leadership Grand Strand Class 32 are:
? Brandi H. Barnhill, Shepard Care Hospice
? Stephanie Burgess, Santee Cooper
? Whitney R. Cromer, Coastal Carolina University
? Jan Dobr, Martin?s Restaurant
? Tracy G. DuRant, BB&T Puckett, Scheetz & Hogan Insurance
? Kristin Free, Carolina Creations Landscapes, Inc.
? Jay Herring, Watermark Real Estate Group
? Johanna S. Hodge, Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
? Jenna Leigh Hottel, Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday
? Paul L. Kaufman, Prestwick Country Club
? Christopher Kavanagh, Watermark Real Estate Group
? Victoria Levy, State Farm Insurance-Wade Davis Agent
? Nancy Redden Livesay, Horry County Solicitor?s Office
? Greg Mitchell, Horry-Georgetown Technical College
? Rebecca Kleinbach Murphy, Myrtle Beach Travel Park
? Annie Obuchowski, Raycom Media, WMBF News
? Rusty Ray, WBTW, DT News 13
? John D. Rutenberg, TD Bank
? Alicia L. Sanders, Horry County Emergency Management
? Gladys A. Velasco, Mercy Care
? Diane White, IHT Staffing
? Edward Lenorris Williams, Williams Painting
? Janet Wood, City of Myrtle Beach
Leadership Grand Strand is now accepting applications for Class XXXIII. Applications, which require three letters of reference, must be typed and are due by June 30, 2012. Applications are available at LeadershipGrandStrand.com. Tuition costs are $890 per person.
Leadership Grand Strand is also currently accepting community service project proposals for the upcoming class. Interested organizations can find a copy of the request for proposal by going to www.LeadershipGrandStrand.com and clicking on the LGS projects link.
For more information, visit www.LeadershipGrandStrand.com or call (843) 916-7222.
ABOUT LEADERSHIP GRAND STRAND
The goal of Leadership Grand Strand, a program of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, is to develop a corps of informed, committed and qualified individuals capable of providing dynamic leadership for the Grand Strand. Over the years, Leadership Grand Strand has created a cadre of leaders who guide the direction of change throughout the Grand Strand.
ABOUT THE MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Since 1938, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has stood as the unified voice of the Grand Strand's business community. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the MBACC its five-star accreditation, one of only several chambers in South Carolina to earn this distinction. The MBACC serves Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Little River, Atlantic Beach, Garden City Beach, Loris, Conway, Aynor, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island. For more information, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
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MBACC, GRAND STRAND BUSINESS ALLIANCE TO HOST DEBATES AT MYRTLE BEACH HIGH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Nora Hembree Battle
Media Communications Manager
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
O: (843) 916-7235 / C: (843) 655-7629
Nora.Battle@VisitMyrtleBeach.com
MBACC, GRAND STRAND BUSINESS ALLIANCE TO HOST DEBATES AT MYRTLE BEACH HIGH
Seventh U.S. Congressional district democratic primary debate to be held June 5, GOP June 7
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. ? The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce (MBACC) and the Grand Strand Business Alliance (GSBA) have announced they will host two primary debates in June for candidates running in the 7th U.S. Congressional district elections. A democratic primary debate will be hosted June 5 followed a republican primary debate hosted on June 7 at Myrtle Beach High School.
?We are excited to have this opportunity to hear the candidates for the U.S. 7th Congressional district House seat address issues that are important to the Myrtle Beach area and entire Grand Strand business community, and even more excited that we?re able to provide this sort of forum for those residing within the 7th Congressional district,? said Richard Singleton, chairman of the MBACC board of directors.
Both debates are expected to garner national media attention including an appearance by Joe Scarborough, political commentator and host of popular weekday morning talk show ?Morning Joe? at the republican primary debate June 7. Scarborough will address event attendees on the current national political climate in the pre-debate program prior to candidates taking to the stage. Additionally, each debate will also be broadcast live on two Grand Strand/Pee Dee television stations, NBC affiliated WMBF News and ABC affiliated WPDE Newschannel 15.
?We?re happy to be broadcasting these debates live for our viewers that may not be able to make it to the events in-person. Being able to hear from all of the candidates and know their positions before the primary elections is critical for those living within the 7th Congressional district,? said Ted Fortenberry, vice president and general manager of NBC affiliate station WMBF News.
?Having this new congressional district is exciting for Grand Strand and Pee Dee residents and we know they?re eager to see someone representing their values in office. We see this is a great opportunity to give our viewers time with the candidates, both republican and democratic, prior to the important June primary elections,? said Billy Huggins, President and CEO of ABC affiliate WPDE Newschannel 15.
MBACC and GSBA officials have said that while both debates will be free to attendees, a live broadcasting by two separate stations will provide greater access to Grand Strand and Pee Dee voters, giving them the valuable opportunity to hear from all candidates. The MBACC and GSBA also plan to host a debate before the general election this November and are currently working on details for that event.
More details on both June primary debates, including how to obtain tickets, will be announced in the coming weeks.
ABOUT THE MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Since 1938, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has stood as the unified voice of the Grand Strand's business community. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the MBACC its five-star accreditation, one of only several chambers in South Carolina to earn this distinction. The MBACC serves Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Little River, Atlantic Beach, Garden City Beach, Loris, Conway, Aynor, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island. For more information, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
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MYRTLE BEACH AREA CELEBRATES VISITORS DURING NATIONAL TRAVEL AND TOURISM WEEK
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Nora Hembree Battle
Media Communications Manager
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
O: (843) 916-7235 / C: (843) 655-7629
Nora.Battle@VisitMyrtleBeach.com
MYRTLE BEACH AREA CELEBRATES VISITORS DURING NATIONAL TRAVEL AND TOURISM WEEK
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. ? Beginning May 5 and continuing through May 13, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce will join hundreds of cities, states and businesses across the country in the nation?s annual salute to the power of travel and tourism in America. This year will mark the 29th annual National Travel and Tourism Week, and the cities of Conway and Myrtle Beach and town of Surfside Beach have issued declarations for the week.
Each year, nearly 15 million tourists visit the Myrtle Beach area, and the MBACC is celebrating the week with activities and promotions for those visiting the Grand Strand. As in past years, MBACC members have received ?Thank You for Visiting? static cling decals to place on their business or vehicle windows.
Additionally, the chamber?s visitor centers in Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet will serve complimentary refreshments during the week. The Myrtle Beach International Airport visitor center will host live music periodically throughout the week and offer refreshments. The list of scheduled performances includes:
May 7, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. ? Doug Fankhauser, various instruments and singer
May 8, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. ? Joan Burton, guitar player and singer
May 9, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. ? Tim Peterman, steel drums player
May 10, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. ? Joan Burton, guitar player and singer
May 11, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. ? Javier Vega, trumpet and piano player
Both leading up to and during National Travel and Tourism Week, an advertising campaign touting the benefits of tourism will be seen in advertisements in local newspapers and in 30-second television spots.
National Travel and Tourism Week was established as National Tourism Week in 1983 when the U.S. Congress passed a joint resolution designating the week to be celebrated in May 1984. In a White House ceremony, President Ronald Reagan signed a presidential proclamation urging citizens to observe the week with ?the appropriate ceremonies and activities.? By January 1986, industry leaders had formed a permanent full-time office at the U.S. Travel Association to sponsor the event and expand tourism awareness into year-round programs.
National Travel and Tourism Week Facts
Source: U.S. Travel Association for 2011
?Generated $1.9 trillion in economic output, with $813 billion spent directly by domestic and international travelers that spurred an additional $1.1 trillion in other industries.
?Directly generated $124 billion in tax revenue for local, state and federal governments.
?Each U.S. household would pay $1,055 more in taxes without the tax revenue generated by the travel and tourism industry.
?Direct spending by resident and international travelers in the U.S. averaged $2.2 billion a day, $92.8 million an hour, $1.5 million a minute and $25,700 a second.
?Generated $1.9 trillion in economic output, with $813 billion spent directly by domestic and international travelers that spurred an additional $1.1 trillion in other industries.
?Directly generated $124 billion in tax revenue for local, state and federal governments.
?Each U.S. household would pay $1,055 more in taxes without the tax revenue generated by the travel and tourism industry.
?Direct spending by resident and international travelers in the U.S. averaged $2.2 billion a day, $92.8 million an hour, $1.5 million a minute and $25,700 a second.
South Carolina Tourism Facts
Source: U.S. Travel Association study prepared for the S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism for 2010
?Spending on travel or on behalf of tourism in South Carolina totaled $15 billion in 2010. Out-of-state domestic visitors spent $8.1 billion, and international visitors added another $767 million to the total.
?Overall South Carolina tourism spending increased 7.6 percent in 2010.
?Tourism supported one in ten South Carolina jobs.
?In 2010, direct traveler (core) spending generated 109,600 jobs, accounting for 6.1 percent of the total state nonagricultural employment.
?The fiscal impact was $1.2 billion in state and local tax revenues ? the equivalent of lifting $655 tax burden per household.
?The ratio of state and local tax revenues to public operations expenditures related to travel and tourism is $3.3 to $1.
Local Tourism Facts
?Horry and Georgetown counties combined generated $9.7 billion in retail sales in 2010-2011, accounting for almost 7 percent of the state?s retail sales (source: S.C. Department of Revenue).
?Both counties generated over 9.5 million in admissions taxes in 2010-2011, more than one-third of the state?s total admissions tax collections (source: S.C. Department of Revenue).
?Both counties generated more than $16.8 million in accommodations taxes in 2010-2011, more than one-third of the state?s total accommodations tax collections (source: S.C. Department of Revenue).
?Tourism generates, directly or indirectly, most of the jobs in Horry and Georgetown counties. In 2011 this included more than 32,000 jobs in accommodations and food services, more than 17,000 jobs in retail and nearly 6,700 jobs in arts, entertainment and recreation (source: Chmura Jobs EQ).
For more information, visit TourismWorksForUs.com.
ABOUT THE MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Since 1938 the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has stood as the unified voice of the Grand Strand's business community. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the MBACC its five-star accreditation, one of only a few chambers in South Carolina to earn this distinction. The MBACC serves Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Little River, Atlantic Beach, Garden City Beach, Loris, Conway, Aynor, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island. For more information, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
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EIGHT GRAND STRAND AREA BUSINESSES HOST RIBBON CUTTING CELEBRATION CEREMONIES
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Nora Hembree Battle
Media Communications Manager
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
O: (843)916-7235 / C: (843) 655-7629
Nora.Battle@VisitMyrtleBeach.com
MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WELCOMES NEW BUSINESS MEMBERS
Eight Grand Strand area businesses host ribbon cutting celebration ceremonies
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C.? Eight Grand Strand businesses have hosted ribbon cutting ceremonies to celebrate grand openings or continued success in the Myrtle Beach area. Friends, family, co-workers, and employees, along with representatives of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, gathered to learn more about the businesses and the services they provide the Grand Strand community. The most recent local businesses to host events include:
Telford Cleaning Service
On April 4, Conway-based Telford Cleaning Service, a janitorial cleaning company, celebrated their grand re-opening in a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce with friends, employees, and MBACC representatives.
Telford Cleaning Service specializes in cleaning residential and commercial areas, as well as construction clean-up. The janitorial company also specializes in carpet cleaning and buffing and waxing floors. Owner Gregory Telford says the company looks forward to meeting new business owners throughout the Grand Strand area.
?We would like to thank the MBACC for their warm welcome in the reopening of Telford Cleaning Service, and we?d also like to thank FOX News for showing us such great support,? said Telford.
Telford also says the company plans on being engaged in the community and participating in area festivals and events. For more information call (843) 340-6267 or (843) 248-3516.
Coccadotts Cake Shop
On April 11, Coccadotts Cake Shop held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of their 106 Sayebrook Parkway location in Myrtle Beach. Employees, friends, family and Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce representatives attended the ceremony to learn more about the popular cake shop.
Established in 2007, Coccadotts Cake Shop first made a name for itself in the Capital Region area of
New York. With an expansive line of cupcakes, cakes, and other baked goods, they have been recognized time and again since their opening as one of the finest bakeries in the region.
?We absolutely love living, working, and playing hand-in-hand with the community we?re surrounded with. We fell in love with the Myrtle Beach area years ago and we?re so excited to be part of it as we engage and serve in our own special way,? said owner Michelle Cocca.
Not a stranger to the national spotlight, they have appeared on Food Network?s ?Cupcake Wars? and garnered nationwide coverage of their Chicken Wing Cupcake on shows including Good Morning America and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. For more information, visit www.coccadotts.com or call (843) 294-2253.
Black Dog Running Company
Black Dog Running Company held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate their grand opening on Saturday, April 14, at their 515 Highway 501, Unit C location in Myrtle Beach. Employees, friends, family, other Sports Center business tenants and Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce representatives attended the ceremony to learn more about the Grand Strand?s only specialty running store.
Black Dog Running Company sells running shoes, apparel, accessories and nutritional items, and owners say the store is operated ?by runners, for runners.? They tout a specialized fitting process to ensure customers purchase the proper footwear needed for maximum enjoyment and safety, and Black Dog Running sponsors local races, hosts weekly group runs, and offers discounts to local cross country and track team members.
?We are very excited to be a part of the Myrtle Beach running community. We have been welcomed with open arms and feel very fortunate to be your running store. It doesn?t matter if someone is a seasoned marathoner or a first time jogger they will be given the same level of personal and detailed customer service at the Black Dog Running Company,? said store owner Daniel Brass.
Brass also says that the store fills a niche in the community that is becoming more active as the number of running events and triathlons in the Myrtle Beach area is increasing and participation grows exponentially.
For more information on Black Dog Running Company, visit www.blackdogrunning.com or call (843) 685-5637. Also find more information, including training tips, product reviews, and local race information, by following them on Facebook.
Kinetico Water Systems
Kinetico Water Systems held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate their business along the Grand Strand at the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce main office at 1200 Oak Street on April 17. Employees, friends, and Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce representatives attended the ceremony to learn more about the Hampstead, N.C.-based business.
At the ribbon cutting ceremony there was a display of Kinetico products including the Blue Green machine, a mobile reverse osmosis tap water machine that can be rented or donated for group functions like church gatherings or fundraising events.
Sales manager Peter Palazzo says Kinetico us the only company that provides non-electric water treatment for homes and businesses.
?We have the number one rated reverse osmosis machine, according to Consumer Reports in February 2012 and we give free water tests valued at $125 for no cost to consumers. Don?t take your water quality for granted. Either you filter or soften your water or your body will,? said Palazzo.
For more information, visit www.kinetico.com or call (800) 865-1208.
Mead & Hunt, Inc.
On April 18, Mead & Hunt held a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house to celebrate the opening of their new office in the Plantation Federal Building located at 1012 38th Avenue North, Suite 301 in Myrtle Beach. Employees, friends, family and Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce representatives attended the ceremony to learn more about the employee-owned architectural and engineering firm.
Mead & Hunt has nearly 450 professional, technical and support staff in more than 20 offices nationwide and has been serving clients in both the public and private sectors since our founding in 1900.
?Mead & Hunt is excited about our new office location and the continuing commitment of our local employees to service the Myrtle Beach area. We are proud of our locally performed engineering services and the positive results from these efforts to make our communities better places to live, work and visit,? said Kevin Barnes, PE Department Manager.
?This new office location supports our growing relationships in this area. Equipped with the ability to tap into our nationwide pool of talented and experienced professionals, the Myrtle Beach team can better serve clients and develop valuable local partnerships. We?re bringing more capabilities to your backyard,? said Mead & Hunt president Andy Platz.
Mead & Hunt offers multidisciplinary design services in the fields of planning, design, architecture and engineering. For more information, visit www.meadhunt.com or call (843) 839-1490.
Loretta Thompson Photography
On April 24, Loretta Thompson Photography held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate their grand opening at My Studio, Inc. located at 4600 Socastee Boulevard in Myrtle Beach. Employees, friends, family and Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce representatives attended the ceremony to learn more about Loretta Thompson photography and to enjoy refreshments. The ceremony was held at My Studio, Inc., a space made available to local photographers that do not have a studio by Tim Jennings.
Loretta Thompson photography was formally established in 2011 and owner Loretta Thompson says her business captures ?the full gamut of life: from birth, senior class portraits, engagement sessions, weddings, family reunions, and so much more.? The business is also planning to branch out into real estate and some commercials photography.
?I?ve been taking photographs of family and friends for 30 years. Photography has always been a way for me to express myself, and I?m truly excited that our new business is in such a beautiful and vibrant area of South Carolina. Myrtle Beach holds so much promise, and I?m blessed that I?m now a part of the fabric of this city,? said Thompson, ?I look forward to meeting the people who live and visit here and capturing the beauty and uniqueness of Myrtle Beach and its surrounding areas.?
Thompson is a member of the Professional Photographers of America organization. For more information, visit www.lorettathompsonphotography.com or call (843) 360-0574.
Myrtle Beach FC Mutiny
Myrtle Beach FC Mutiny, the Myrtle Beach area?s new professional soccer team, held a ribbon cutting ceremony on April 20 and unveiled their new 2012 home jersey?s alongside Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce representatives at Inlet Affairs in Murrells Inlet. CEO Tristan Patterson and Head Coach Thunder cut the ribbon.
?We?re proud to be a part of an amazing chamber of commerce and an amazing city. We?re also proud to be involved all around the Grand Strand community and look forward to an amazing season,? said Patterson.
Inlet Affairs provided a meal for Myrtle Beach FC Mutiny, the first professional American team to be sponsored by Hummel?a 100-year-old company. Also at the ceremony, the team announced their intention to place a major bid for the 2013/2014 NPSL league championships.
Their season begins on May 5th at their home stadium, Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium, in Myrtle Beach. For more information, visit www.mysoccerUSA.com or call (843) 410-TEAM.
Rover Tours
Rover Tours held a ribbon cutting ceremony April 25 to celebrate their business, located at 715 Front Street in Georgetown. A guest cut the ribbon at the ceremony attended by employees, friends and Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce representatives.
A boat tour aboard the Carolina Rover provides guests with a way to experience the historic and unspoiled nature of the Lowcountry and Winyah Bay areas. During tours, guests can visit the historic Georgetown lighthouse and walk the beautiful beaches of the uninhabited ?North Island.?
One guest at the ribbon cutting ceremony remarked, ?We had a great time. The crew was knowledgeable and courteous and we?ll definitely be back and recommend the tour to friends.? Operations manager Tamera Walters also says the tour is great for spotting wildlife.
?Our guests have the opportunity to see dolphins, bald eagles and an array of other waterfowl. They can also see the wreck of the Civil War Union warship, and shell and comb the unspoiled beach of a barrier island,? said Walters.
Reservations are required for the 3.5 hour trip and the cost is $30/adult and $20/children under 12. Private charters are also available. For more information, visit www.roverboattours.com or call (843) 546-8822.
Editorial Note: Photos of ribbon cutting ceremonies are available upon request.
ABOUT THE MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Since 1938, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has stood as the unified voice of the Grand Strand's business community. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the MBACC its five-star accreditation, one of only several chambers in South Carolina to earn this distinction. The MBACC serves Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Little River, Atlantic Beach, Garden City Beach, Loris, Conway, Aynor, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island. For more information, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
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DR. DEBBIE CONNER NAMED 2012 ANN DEBOCK LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Diana Greene
Executive Director
Leadership Grand Strand
(843) 916-7222
Diana.Greene@VisitMyrtleBeach.com
DR. DEBBIE CONNER NAMED 2012 ANN DEBOCK LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. ? The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce?s nine-month leadership program, Leadership Grand Strand, is excited to announce the 2012 annual Ann DeBock Leadership Award will be presented to Dr. Debbie Conner of Coastal Carolina University during the Leadership Grand Strand Class XXXII graduation ceremony on May 6 at 6 p.m. at Pine Lakes Country Club.
Each year, the Leadership Grand Strand class honors one alumnus who has exhibited outstanding leadership and service. To receive this award, the recipient must volunteer in service or civic roles, serve on appointed boards or commissions, and exhibit an overall demonstration of effective leadership skills.
The 2012 award winner was born in Houston, Texas, moved to North Carolina at a young age and attended A.C. Reynolds High School in Asheville, NC. Conner then attended Converse College where she earned her Bachelors of Arts degree as a double major in psychology and secondary education. In 1994, she moved to the Myrtle Beach area and joined the staff of Coastal Carolina University as Coordinator in the Department of Student Affairs.
In the years that followed Conner continued her education while she worked for Coastal Carolina University as the director of student activities; director of community relations, special events and stewardship; and assistant vice president for University Relations. She earned her Master?s degree in student personnel from the University of South Carolina in 1996, followed by her Doctor of Philosophy degree in Educational Leadership from Clemson University in 2005. Currently, Conner serves as the associate vice president of University Relations at CCU.
In addition to her many academic and professional accomplishments, Conner also stays busy raising her 17-year-old daughter Kayla with her husband, Tracy, who works in the golf industry. According to those she knows and has worked with, Conner has always been a good example for young women seeking a healthy work-family balance.
?She is a tremendous inspiration for all young women who aspire to be successful in a career and successful in a marriage and family. She has a tremendous ability to assume responsibility and to handle all her duties with a cheerful attitude and a winning spirit,? said Tommy Brittain of The Brittain Law Firm, P.A.
Conner also spends a great deal of her time volunteering. She has worked with several organizations along the Grand Strand including the Street Reach Ministries, Coastal Carolina YMCA, Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, Converse College Alumnae Board, Waccamaw Area Heart Association and more.
Currently, Conner serves as the vice president and conference committee logistics chair of the CCU Women in Philanthropy and Leadership organization, president of the Brittain Fellowship Class at First Methodist Church in Myrtle Beach, co-chair of The Bi-Lo American Red Cross Christmas Dinner, a member of the Rotary Club of Carolina Forest Sunrise and much more.
The Ann DeBock Leadership Award was commissioned and started by Class XIX in memory of Ann DeBock, the executive director of Leadership Grand Strand from its inception in 1979 until her death in 1998. The other nominees for this year?s award were Vern Hearl of LHWH, Shannon Detzler of The Jackson Companies and Cindy Ott of Horry-Georgetown Technical College.
For more information, visit www.LeadershipGrandStrand.com or call (843) 916-7222.
ABOUT LEADERSHIP GRAND STRAND
The goal of Leadership Grand Strand, a program of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, is to develop a corps of informed, committed and qualified individuals capable of providing dynamic leadership for the Grand Strand. Over the years, Leadership Grand Strand has created a cadre of leaders who guide the direction of change throughout the Grand Strand.
ABOUT THE MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Since 1938, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has stood as the unified voice of the Grand Strand's business community. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the MBACC its five-star accreditation, one of only several chambers in South Carolina to earn this distinction. The MBACC serves Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Little River, Atlantic Beach, Garden City Beach, Loris, Conway, Aynor, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island. For more information, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
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LEADERSHIP GRAND STRAND ACCEPTING COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT PROPOSALS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Diana Greene
Executive Director
Leadership Grand Strand
(843) 916-7222
Diana.Greene@VisitMyrtleBeach.com
LEADERSHIP GRAND STRAND NOW ACCEPTING COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT PROPOSALS
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. ? Leadership Grand Strand is now accepting proposals from nonprofit organizations for potential community service projects that have a lasting benefit to the community. The projects would be completed by LGS Class XXXIII and must take place between September 2012 and January 2013. The community service projects also must occupy up to 30 participants for 25 hours (750 total hours of labor) over the five-month period. Applications are due by June 1, 2012.
Leadership Grand Strand, celebrating its 33rd year of service to the community, tackles real community needs as part of each class?s graduation requirements. The sponsoring organization must furnish the funding necessary for the projects, as fundraising by the class is not anticipated.
Nonprofits and government agencies are encouraged to submit proposals that address an organization?s specific needs that involve hands-on volunteer hours. Projects over the years have varied widely, from improving a local animal shelter to providing assistance to a program for abused children to building or repairing homes.
Interested organizations can find a copy of the request for proposal by going to www.LeadershipGrandStrand.com and clicking on the LGS projects link.
Leadership Grand Strand is also accepting applications for Class XXXII. Applications, which require three letters of reference, must be typed and are due by June 30, 2012. Applications are available at LeadershipGrandStrand.com. Tuition costs are $890 per person.
For more information, visit www.LeadershipGrandStrand.com or call (843) 916-7222.
ABOUT LEADERSHIP GRAND STRAND
The goal of Leadership Grand Strand, a program of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, is to develop a corps of informed, committed and qualified individuals capable of providing dynamic leadership for the Grand Strand. Over the years, Leadership Grand Strand has created a cadre of leaders who guide the direction of change throughout the Grand Strand.
ABOUT THE MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Since 1938, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has stood as the unified voice of the Grand Strand's business community. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the MBACC its five-star accreditation, one of only several chambers in South Carolina to earn this distinction. The MBACC serves Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Little River, Atlantic Beach, Garden City Beach, Loris, Conway, Aynor, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island. For more information, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
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MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OFFICIALS APPLAUD RECENTLY FILED POOL SAFE ACT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Nora Hembree Battle
Media Communications Manager
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
O: (843) 916-7235 / C: (843) 655-7629
Nora.Battle@VisitMyrtleBeach.com
MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OFFICIALS APPLAUD RECENTLY FILED POOL SAFE ACT
Rep. Mick Mulvaney introduces legislation to address recent ADA revisions by U.S. DOJ
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. ? Rep. Mick Mulvaney, R-S.C., has introduced legislation seeking to revise recent changes made to the Americans with Disabilities Act by the U.S. Dept. of Justice as it concerns entry to public pools. The ?Pool Safety and Accessibility for Everyone Act,? or ?Pool SAFE Act,? (H.R. 4256) was introduced March 26 and lists 26 co-sponsors.
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce officials and local business leaders applaud the work of Rep. Mulvaney and are pleased to see the legislation filed.
?Rep. Mulvaney has proven himself a strong advocate of common sense in filing this bill. While we want to make sure everyone has the ability to use pool facilities, we also want to make sure that they are able to do so in a safe way?a way that makes the most sense to both those using and maintaining public pools,? said MBACC chairman Richard Singleton.
The legislation was referred to the House Judiciary Committee and specifically seeks to "direct the Attorney General to revise certain rules under titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 relating to accessible means of entry to pools." The bill is largely a result of revisions made by the U.S. Department of Justice requiring all public pools greater than 300 linear feet to purchase, install and maintain a permanent, or ?fixed,? pool lift in lieu of other options like a portable pool lift.
?We?re so pleased to see the Pool SAFE Act bill filed, and I?m grateful to Rep. Mulvaney for bringing attention to the U.S. Dept. of Justice?s revisions to the ADA Act in filing the bill. At our property, we want to be able to provide access to our pools to everyone, but we also want to do so in the safest way possible,? said Steve Chapman, general manager of the Island Vista Resort in Myrtle Beach.
?Fixed pool lifts could be dangerous, and we worry that they may not always be used as intended. Hopefully, this bill will help to provide some much-needed common sense to the new regulations. We?re proud of the work our South Carolina delegation, including Rep. Mulvaney, has done recently and are hopeful moving forward,? said Mark Lazarus, owner of Wild Water & Wheels in Surfside and chairman of the MBACC Legislative Policy Council.
Co-sponsors of Rep. Mulvaney?s Pool SAFE Act include Reps. David Schweikert, R-Ariz., Walter B. Jones, R-N.C., Benjamin Quayle, R-Ariz., Sue Wilkins Myrick, R-N.C., Mike Coffman, R-Colo., Cory Gardner, R-Colo., Mike Pence, R-Ind., Sam Graves, R-Mo., Vicky Hartzler, R-Mo., Mike Ross, D-Ark., Dan Burton, R-Ind., Trey Gowdy, R-S.C., Joe Wilson, R-S.C., John Campbell, R-Calif., Robert Latta, R-Ohio, Mark Amodei, R-Nev., Rick Berg, R-N.D., Reid J. Ribble, R-Wis., Mike Kelly, R-Pa., Andy Harris, R-Md., Billy Long, R-Mo., John R. Carter, R-Texas, Ron E. Paul, R-Texas, Bill Posey, R-Fla., Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., and Doug Lamborn, R-Colo.
You can search for the entire text of the bill online on the Library of Congress Thomas legislative website by visiting http://thomas.loc.gov/home/thomas.php.
ABOUT THE MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Since 1938, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has stood as the unified voice of the Grand Strand's business community. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the MBACC its five-star accreditation, one of only several chambers in South Carolina to earn this distinction. The MBACC serves Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Little River, Atlantic Beach, Garden City Beach, Loris, Conway, Aynor, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island. For more information, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
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LEADERSHIP GRAND STRAND NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR CLASS XXXIII
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 2, 2012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Nora Hembree Battle
Media Communications Manager
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
O: (843) 916-7235 / C: (843) 655-7629
Nora.Battle@VisitMyrtleBeach.com
LEADERSHIP GRAND STRAND NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR CLASS XXXIII
Program seeks committed individuals to participate in nine-month leadership course
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. ? The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce?s ninth-month leadership program, Leadership Grand Strand, is now accepting applications for Class XXXIII. The upcoming program, sponsored by the MBACC, will commence in August 2012 and run through May 2013. The purpose of Leadership Grand Strand is to develop a corps of informed, committed and qualified individuals capable of providing dynamic leadership for the Grand Strand area.
Leadership Grand Strand explores topics like Grand Strand history, tourism and economic development, government and politics, education, law enforcement, human services and the arts. Alumni serve on community boards and commissions and in key decision-making positions throughout the Grand Strand.
?We are looking forward to having another great class of outstanding Leadership Grand Strand participants. This program is the perfect opportunity for individuals to not only become more involved and invested in their community, but also for them to develop the talents and skills they can use to improve it,? said Diana Greene, Executive Director of Leadership Grand Strand and Executive Vice-President of Membership Programs and Services for the MBACC.
Leadership Grand Strand is open to citizens who have resided in Horry or Georgetown County continuously for at least one year prior to the application date. Candidates may be nominated by an organization or may nominate themselves. Program participation is limited, with selection reflecting the demographic, geographic and professional diversity of the Myrtle Beach area.
Criteria for selection include evidence of leadership abilities, potential to provide leadership to the Grand Strand, interest in community affairs, desire to volunteer and commitment to become more involved in the Grand Strand community. Participants and their sponsoring organizations must be willing to invest the time required for members to fully participate in the program, which includes a two-day retreat on September 20-21, a full day of classes the first Thursday of each month and 100 hours of community service. Regular attendance is imperative and mandatory.
Applications, which require three letters of reference, must be typed and are due by June 30, 2012. Applications are available online at LeadershipGrandStrand.com. Tuition is $890 per person.
Scholarship opportunities are also available through the Ann DeBock Scholarship fund. Those interested in applying for a scholarship are encouraged to visit the Leadership Grand Strand web site and fill out a scholarship application.
For more information, visit LeadershipGrandStrand.com or call (843) 916-7222.
About the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
Since 1938 the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has stood as the unified voice of the Grand Strand's business community. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the MBACC its five-star accreditation, one of only several chambers in South Carolina to earn this distinction. The MBACC serves Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Little River, Atlantic Beach, Garden City Beach, Loris, Conway, Aynor, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island. For more information, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
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MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WELCOMES NEW BUSINESS MEMBERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Nora Hembree Battle
Media Communications Manager
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
O: (843)916-7235 / C: (843) 655-7629
Nora.Battle@VisitMyrtleBeach.com
MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WELCOMES NEW BUSINESS MEMBERS
Three Grand Strand area businesses host ribbon cutting celebration ceremonies
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C.? Three Grand Strand businesses have hosted ribbon cutting ceremonies to celebrate grand openings or continued success in the Myrtle Beach area. Friends, family, co-workers, and employees, along with representatives of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, gathered to learn more about the businesses and the services they provide the Grand Strand community. The most recent local businesses to host events include:
THE DUGOUT
On March 3, The Dugout, a Myrtle Beach-based baseball and softball training facility, celebrated their grand opening with friends, family, employees, Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce representatives and Myrtle Beach Mayor John Rhodes in a ribbon cutting ceremony at their new facility at 1121 3rd Avenue South. Bojangles served free food to anyone that purchased an annual membership, and batting cages were open and free all day to those who attended the opening.
The training facility is designed to be used by players interested in improving their baseball and softball skills, and owners say their mission is to provide the best service, staff and equipment to clients, as well as meet all various needs of clients.
?We?re very excited about The Dugout and all it has to offer the Grand Strand and the surrounding area. We look forward to helping develop young ball players and helping them learn about and enjoy this great game. We are determined to create an unmatched baseball and softball atmosphere adding to the enjoyment of every player, member and employee,? said The Dugout owner Eddy Bodge.
The Dugout strives to support and sponsor community events, as well as host them whenever possible, added Bodge, and their hope is that through the use of our facility, clients? enjoyment and appreciation for baseball, fitness and life will be enhanced.
The Dugout is 15,000 square feet and climate controlled and is home to 11 batting cages, 5 Iron Mike Pitching Machines, 2 Bullpens, a full-size infield and a media room. The Dugout has a roster of 10 professional instructors that will offer personal hitting, fielding, and pitching lessons. Annual memberships are available. For more information, visit www.thedugoutmb.com or call (843) 712-2735.
EVERGREEN LANDSCAPING
Evergreen Landscaping held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate 20 years of business along the Grand Strand on March 15 at their 741 Commerce Place location in Myrtle Beach. Employees, friends, family and Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce representatives attended the ceremony to learn more about the Grand Strand?s leader in commercial and residential landscaping.
?You only get one chance to make a first impression, so make it a great one. The landscaping of your property is the first thing people notice when they visit your home or business,? said Evergreen Landscaping representative Jenny Suggs.
Evergreen Landscaping serves the entire Grand Strand area including Horry, Georgetown and Brunswick Counties, and employees say they operate on one principle?to provide each client with the highest quality products and service possible. Evergreen Landscaping is fully licensed and insured, boasts 20 years of experience and numerous awards, and provide services including all landscaping and irrigation needs.
For more information on Evergreen Landscaping, visit www.evergreenlandscaping.com or call (843) 444-0023.
CUSTOM SHIRT ZONE
Custom Shirt Zone held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate their business along the Grand Strand at the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce main office at 1200 Oak Street on March 20. Employees, friends, family and Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce representatives attended the ceremony and learned more about the locally-owned business.
Custom Shirt Zone produces t-shirts, polo shirts and hats with company logos and designs at affordable prices. ?We want to be the very best and offer the area the most competitive prices,? said Custom Shirt zone representative Jackie Miles.
Custom Shirt Zone offers silk screening, embroidery and heat transfers. For more information, visit www.customshirtzone.com or call (843) 457-5998.
Editorial Note: Photos of ribbon cutting ceremonies are attached and available upon request.
ABOUT THE MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Since 1938, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has stood as the unified voice of the Grand Strand's business community. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the MBACC its five-star accreditation, one of only several chambers in South Carolina to earn this distinction. The MBACC serves Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Little River, Atlantic Beach, Garden City Beach, Loris, Conway, Aynor, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island. For more information, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
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BEACH BLAST! CHRISTIAN MUSIC FESTIVAL RETURNS TO MYRTLE BEACH AREA MAY 19
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Nora Hembree Battle
Media Communications Manager
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
O: (843) 916-7235 / C: (843) 655-7629
Nora.Battle@VisitMyrtleBeach.com
BEACH BLAST! CHRISTIAN MUSIC FESTIVAL RETURNS TO MYRTLE BEACH AREA MAY 19
Toby Mac to headline event featuring multiple artists, Outcast BMX and speaker Nick Hall
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. ? Tickets are on sale now for the Beach Blast! Christian Music Festival that?s making its third appearance this year in Myrtle Beach, S.C. Toby Mac will headline the event that will feature other musical artists like Third Day, Red, Jamie Grace, and Royal Tailor. Emcee KJ-52 will take to the stage during the festival along with speaker Nick Hall and Outcast BMX, an exciting new addition to the 2012 lineup.
The Beach Blast! Christian Music Festival helps to kick off the start of the summer season along the Grand Strand and will be held on Saturday, May 19, between 8th and 9th Avenues North in downtown Myrtle Beach. Food and arts and crafts vendors will be set up throughout the day.
?This family-friendly festival was a huge hit with visitors and locals alike the past two years and we?re excited to partner again with Premier Festivals and welcome it back to the area with an exciting lineup of performers. We?re looking forward to another great turnout and to celebrating the start of summer here along the Grand Strand with Beach Blast! Christian Music Festival,? said Amie Lee, director of festivals and special events for the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.
Early bird ticket prices begin at $17.99 for children and $32.99 for adults are available through April 20 and can be purchased online at www.myrtlebeachmayfest.com. Special prices are available for groups.
For more information on this event as well as other community events in the Myrtle Beach area during the month of May, visit www.myrtlebeachmayfest.com, or call the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce at (843) 626-7444.
ABOUT THE MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Since 1938, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has stood as the unified voice of the Grand Strand's business community. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the MBACC its five-star accreditation, one of only several chambers in South Carolina to earn this distinction. The MBACC serves Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Little River, Atlantic Beach, Garden City Beach, Loris, Conway, Aynor, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island. For more information, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.
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Myrtle Beach News 