| Monday, July 19, 2010 |
| On the Medical Side of Things - Nurse Practitioners |
My newest website for a friend and a new customer is a Nurse Practitioner Job Search website, owned by Renee Dahring, who is a career coach. (as well as a friend of my childhood idol Davy Jones - who woulda thunk?)
As usual I've had to learn all kinds of stuff about her business. She's been authoring another very popular blog and has really made a name for herself in the nursing job search world. She'll be adding to the site as time goes on, but already has some interesting stuff for those interested in finding a job in that field.
Just finished an on-page optimizing job for Lake Lanier Real Estate, and we're still working on the Condolux Myrtle Beach Condo Rentals site. They are getting big on facebook too!
I like working with different businesses. It's kind of a break from all the real estate stuff. :-)
And oh yeah...almost forgot my business partner's newest creation, Attorneys in South Carolina. |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 10:11 AM  
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| Tuesday, June 15, 2010 |
| Myrtle Beach Business Websites |
Businesses in Myrtle Beach are getting it, finally. While the real estate and rental industries have been investing in great websites and social media marketing for years now, the restaurants and small local companies haven't understood how important a website and the internet are to their businesses.
When is the last time you looked in a phone book? I haven't even picked up one in 2-3 years now. SO much easier it is to type something into Google and get the phone number! Easier to read, no heavy phone book to pick up and strain to read the tiny print. Websites and the internet are the most important thing to a business now that exists. Even more important is being FOUND on the internet, whether it be by SEO, social media, the online Yellow Pages, or whatever. The best of all is to be in Google Local (or Places as it's now called) to be placed in the organic search rankings, and to be in all the profile sites... like Facebook, Yahoo Local, Insider Pages, etc.
We're beginning a new project out of state now, starting this week. Virginia and Rhodes Lee are Realtors working with Buford GA Real Estate, a small community in Atlanta, Georgia.
I love this business! Every site I do requires me to learn about other places, businesses, insurance, and all kinds of things I would never think of getting involved with. I live in Paradise and manage to do what I love and make a living. Life is good! |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 11:53 AM
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| Saturday, June 05, 2010 |
| These Myrtle Beach Businesses Support Cat Month and the NMB Humane Society! |
As we mentioned earlier, June is officially National Cat Month. I extended an offer to many of the local businesses to donate $100 to the Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach, and I would honor them on the blog and add their banner link to one of my websites.
So far two of my favorite businesses in NMB have stepped up to the bat, and here are their accolades!
CondoLux of North Myrtle Beach - one of the best and oldest Myrtle Beach Vacation Rentals companies around. I asked for a few words from them and here's what they said! CondoLux Vacation Rentals in North Myrtle Beach has again proven to be a leader in the Myrtle Beach condo rentals industry. With an exponential increase in web traffic, discounted rental rates, the most competitive golf package pricing, and millions of dollars in real estate sales, CondoLux knows the vacation rental game. They offer over 300 condos, villas and beach homes for rent year-round, most oceanfront so you are overlooking the beautiful Atlantic. The cats in North Myrtle Beach thank you, Condolux, and so do we!
My friend and my Allstate insurance agent, Scott Todd, is one of the nicest guys any cat could ever ask to meet. He graciously sent our cats $100 and saved a few lives that might have been lost!
Our specialty is customer service and to protect your home and family to the best of our ability! We also have the best prices on SC car insurance and offer THE best deals when you combine your SC Homeowners insurance, boat insurance, motorcycle insurance, and more!
Thank you to both of these great local businesses, and I hope to see some more companies donate to help the local homeless animals! We've featured Condolux on our website and page for Kid Friendly Hotels in Myrtle Beach, and Scott is on our Myrtle Beach Businesses page!
There's still a month left to help our cats! If you are a local business, please donate and get some free advertising for your trouble! |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 8:44 AM
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| Thursday, May 20, 2010 |
| June is Adopt a Cat Month! |
Give a Shelter Cat a Starring Role in Your Life during Adopt-A-Cat Month This June
The Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach has a wide variety of cats and kittens waiting for loving homes.
The Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach is celebrating Adopt-A-Cat Month this June. It’s an ideal time to adopt a feline, since the spring and summer months typically bring a surge of kittens and cats to the local shelters.
Whether you’re looking for a fun, frisky kitten or a mellow, mature cat, you’ll find the perfect feline at our shelter! We have cats of all breeds, ages and personalities, and they’re all looking for loving, permanent homes.
The Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach encourages people to enrich their lives by adopting a cat.
Adoption fees will be reduced to $55 on all cat and kitten adoptions on Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout the month of June. All animals are spayed or neutered and up to date on vaccinations. For more information, please call 843-249-4948 or log onto http://www.humanesocietynmb.org/
Visit these local business websites:
Tree Services in Myrtle Beach
Home Theatre Myrtle Beach
Pool Builders in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach Condo Rentals
SC Car Insurance |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 3:36 AM
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| Friday, May 07, 2010 |
| Myrtle Beach Makes Trip Advisor Number One Destination |
Well, the word is out officially on Trip Advisor, which has become one of the most popular vacation sites around. Just released, in their Travelers' Choice Best Destinations for 2010, Myrtle Beach is number one. Cited as a great choice for kids attractions, Myrtle Beach is described in the caption as:
Myrtle Beach is a family-friendly beach destination—which means in addition to great beaches, there’s plenty to do when the kids are sick of making sand castles. Amusement parks, water sports and golf courses are nearby. And family-friendly dining and hotels abound. This sounds like a big compliment, and when you consider we are listed along with runners up such as San Diego, Hawaii, and several of the best Florida cities, it really IS something.
All the new luxury Myrtle Beach condo rentals are contributing to our popularity. Clearwater, Sarasota and Destin oceanfront resorts used to make us look like the poor relations...but not so much anymore. We'll be another Boca Raton eventually!
In another division of the awards, Myrtle Beach came in at number seven for Best Family Destinations in the US. Although it's not often mentioned, more and more of the new resorts are becoming pet friendly hotels as well. It's hard to take off for a week (most of the condos here require a longer stay) and leave the family pet behind. It's great that more of the nicest resorts are making accommodations for the four-legged family members.
Congrats to all the businesses and vacation services that have made the grade. Here's a few...
Myrtle Beach Tree Services
Myrtle Beach Pool Builders
Car Insurance Myrtle Beach
Home Theatre Installation Myrtle Beach |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 8:25 AM
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| Sunday, April 18, 2010 |
| Albuquerque Real Estate Market Has Greatly Improved |
Per my friend Tim Fish, their market has taken off like a rocket this month. He is quite pleased and wanted to get the word out, so here's what he has to say...
Activity with Albuquerque real estate these past three weeks has been exciting to say the least.
The $8,000 seems to have “stimulated” the housing market for now. As predicted, With the Tax credit ending at the end of this month (April 39, 2010), buyers have waited until the last minute and have found themselves in bidding wars.
Sellers are loving it, but at the same time, most are holding their breath until the appraisal comes in at the negotiated price.
According to GAAR (Greater Albuquerque Association of Realtors), we have seen the strongest March since 2007. With 634 closed home sales and more than 1,000 pending sales, this month has turned some heads. I can’t help but to think that April may be even stronger.
Rio Rancho is on the rebound with a 54 percent increase in closed sales from March 2009. Albuquerque has steadily climbed this year and was up 34 percent with 440 closed sales this past month. $140 million dollars in transactions in March 2010 has been reported from the MLS, which is up more than 30 percent from March 2009, according to GAAR.
Advice to buyers - If you find a home that will work for you, run back to the office with your Realtor and write it up, because there is a very good chance that someone is doing the exact same thing on that house!
Advice to sellers - If you've gotten that long awaited offer, have your Realtor pull comps and wait by the door for that appraiser. (and be nice!!). You are going to need every edge you can get!
Tim Fish is an expert on Albuquerque homes for sale, and is a partner with his father Dennis, in The Albququerque Real Estate Group. Their website is located at www.TheAlbuquerqueRealEstateGroup.com. |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 10:24 AM
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| Tuesday, April 13, 2010 |
| Myrtle Beach Tree Service Website |
Just finished a new website for Tree Services in Myrtle Beach, DAM Tree Services Inc.
DAM stands for the owner's name, Duncan A McInnis. He finds the company name easy to remember for his repeat customers...:-)
As usual I spent quite a bit of time researching tree services, palm tree trimming, live oaks, and some of the equipment the tree guys use. I told one friend that before it was over with, I will know something about every kind of profession!
Anyway, Duncan impressed me with his good nature, good looks, and business integrity. He tells me that he has a 100% satisfaction guarantee and his customers don't pay until the job is done. In this day and time, that's very impressive. Please give his website a look, and if you need the services of a tree expert, Duncan is the man for the job! www.damtreeservices.com
I'm starting to get a nice collection of Myrtle Beach businesses, and more on the way. I have a partnership with a friend Melissa who also does web design, and she recently did a site for a local Myrtle Beach Swimming Pool Contractor, Arnold's Pool Company. Several months ago I finished our local Allstate agent's site, Scott Todd, with the cheapest car insurance in SC.
I am possibly going to start one this week for Audio Rhythms in Little River, and re-do a golf site as well. Feast or Famine! I prefer feasting any day! :-) |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 2:06 AM
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| Tuesday, April 06, 2010 |
| Albuquerque Real Estate Stays Ahead of the Game |
What will happen to your real estate sales when the tax credit goes away? I recently posed this question to Tim and Dennis Fish, who sell real estate in Albuquerque NM with Coldwell Banker Legacy. I wondered if home sales would drop drastically, and if so, how would they handle all the Albuquerque homes for sale.
There, as everywhere, the inventory of homes and condos is large, and mortgage companies are tight. Unlike many areas, real estate prices did not escalate wildly during the boom, however the industry is being impacted now, as are the losses and foreclosures that go with it. When the tax credit ends, will prices drop further, creating even more foreclosures?
These three questions have people in the real estate industry buzzing. Tim and Dennis agree the answer to number one may be as simple as "Life goes on". The tax credit was meant to be a stimulus package. It was to help stimulate our economy toward growth. In Albuquerque it seems to have been a successful effort.
"First time homebuyers have been taking advantage of the package well in excess of the previous version," says Dennis, but all good stimulus packages must come to an end."
So, I asked, will the sales take a dump? Tim said no, he doesn't think they will.
"I do expect a change, but not a stop of people buying homes! Sellers will have to become more realistic about pricing their properties, and making sure that their property shows well when placed next to their competition as buyers continue to bargain even more. Price it right and make sure it's cleaned and refreshed", Tim answered me confidently. "It's a price war and a beauty pageant!"
Will home prices drop drastically? Tim's father, Dennis, says they will be impacted, but he doesn't know how much.
"I believe that foreclosures will become the 'Hot item' in our market place" Dennis told me. "The prices are often below the market and there is often the chance to buy at an attractive price and do some rehab yourself and gain instant equity".
I guess we all agree that life will go on and homes will continue to sell. If you are thinking of buying, now is still the time! The types and prices on homes in Albuquerque and elsewhere are better than they've ever been. Search the Albuquerque MLS and you'll see every kind of home and condo imaginable. And if you've been thinking of relocating to New Mexico, look up the Albuquerque Real Estate Group. With the experience and enthusiasm they offer, you'll have a great time finding that perfect home!
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posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 1:27 AM
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| Friday, March 26, 2010 |
| Annual Doggie Bone Hunt! |
Annual Doggie Bone Hunt
The 10th Annual Doggie Bone Hunt will be held Saturday, April 10th at McLean Park in North Myrtle Beach.
Registration will be at 12:30pm with the Doggie Bone Hunt beginning at 1pm.
A $10 donation to The Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach will register your pet in the Doggie Bone Hunt. Prizes will be awarded to the owners/dogs who can collect the most doggie bones.....before the dogs gobble them up!
Other festivities will include a bake sale, hot dog sale, pet games, crafts, Pet-Owner-Look-A-Like Contest, Best Pet Trick Contest and Best dressed Pet Contest.
Music for the event will be provided by Big Bam Boom and Friends. ALL proceeds from the event benefit The Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach. For more information, please call 843-249-4948 or log onto http://www.humanesocietynmb.org/ .
Tina Hunter, Shelter Manager
The Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach
409 Bay St.- PO Box 3369
North Myrtle Beach SC 29582
843-249-4948
843-249-1369 Fax
shelter@sccoast.net
www.humanesocietynmb.org
Looking for Pet Friendly Hotels in Myrtle Beach? |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 1:38 AM
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| Saturday, March 20, 2010 |
| Buzzes, Tweets, Celebrities, Hugs or Starfleet |
As someone who has an active profile on just about every social media site on the internet, I’ve found myself enjoying some of them, and completely turned off by others. They all seem to have their own type of personalities, and most seem to serve a specific purpose for a specific type of interest.
Myspace.com is predominantly musicians and celebrities, although becoming full of self-proclaimed entrepreneurs pushing MLM schemes or the mysterious “Secret”. Facebook seems to be more of a home for internet newbies that enjoy sending each other “smiles”, “hugs”, and farm animals. Techies and narcissists seem to be attracted to Twitter, perhaps the most well-known social media site.
Now Google has brought on a wordier version of Twitter, to entice talky fans who feel restricted with the 140 character limit. Known as “Buzz”, Google hopes it will catch on with the ones who enjoy posting their activities from hour to hour in more detail. Although I have not seen any purpose in Twitter and almost never go there, it has become an international phenomenon that seems to have the most fans of them all.
How can a newcomer decide which social site suits them the best? Here are some quick glances at the 3 oldest and biggest – MySpace, Facebook, Twitter; and two brand new and very different ones- Google’s Buzz, and (huh?) William Shatner’s www.MyOuterSpace.com.
Read the rest of my first article on the www.buzzite.com blog. |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 6:43 AM
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| Sunday, March 14, 2010 |
| Virginia Beach Attractions Gear Up for 2010 |
This is a great time to enjoy a vacation to Virginia Beach. The water might give a refreshing tingle, but you can play beach volleyball, build sand castles, go fishing off a pier and sunbathe! Of course, many Virginia Beach hotels offer heated pools so the kids can still get in their waterplay.
If you're planning a vacation to Virginia Beach this year, see our website for Virginia Beach Attractions. Here are some early spring specials from the VA Bureau of Tourism:
Holiday Inn Oceanside Family Movie/Pizza Package
Region: Tidewater and Hampton Roads
21st Street and Atlantic Avenue
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Holiday Inn Oceanside is serving Dinner! Enjoy a Large 2 topping pizza and a 2 Liter of soda, enough for the whole family after building sandcastles and wave catching on the beautiful coast of Virginia Beach. Your Oceanfront accommodation is the perfect place to relax with one Free in room movie, the hard part will be deciding which one to watch. Breakfast for 2 included, Kids Eat Free.
Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2009 - Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Package Price: Varies seasonally
Children Welcome
Hotel Phone Number: (757) 491-1500
Holiday Inn Reservations: (800) 465-4329
Fax: (757) 491-1945
Email: heather.mcintosh@crestlinehotels.com
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Whale Watching Getaway Deluxe Package - Barclay Cottage Bed and Breakfast
Region: Tidewater and Hampton Roads
Barclay Cottage Bed and Breakfast
400 16th Street
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
You'll travel along the oceanfront, one to three miles offshore, in search of humpback and fin whales. This per person PACKAGE INCLUDES:
2 nights lodging at our award-winning, Virginia Green Certified Inn, Daily multi-course breakfast, 2-hour Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center Whale Watching Boat Trip, Admission to the Virginia Aquarium, including a short feature film at the 3-D IMAX(R)Theater, and a dinner voucher.
HOTEL AMENITIES:
1.Comfortable pillow-top beds with crisp high thread count linens
2. Fluffy Turkish towels and robes
3. AM/FM/CD stereo clock radios with MP/3 inputs
4. Hair dryers and make-up mirrors
5. Free WIFI service and computer and business center
6. Daily afternoon complimentary fresh baked cookies
Date: Sunday, December 27, 2009 - Sunday, March 14, 2010
Package Price: from $390/couple
Telephone:
For Reservations: (757) 422-1956 (866) INN-1865
Fax: (757) 422-5449
Email: innkeepers@barclaycottage.com
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Romance at the Beach Package
Region: Tidewater and Hampton Roads
Barclay Cottage Bed and Breakfast
400 16th Street
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Take a day or two off from work. Leave the computer behind. Come to award-winning Barclay Cottage Bed and Breakfast, featuring antiques, hand-made quilts and Victorian home atmosphere - a romantic alternative to high-rise hotel/motel Virginia Beach lodging. Package includes: 2 nights accommodation in cozy room with pillow-top queen bed and private bath (some with jetted spa-tubs); multi-course gourmet breakfast each morning; bicycles for exploring; romantic dinner at one of several outstanding restaurants; split of champagne or sparkling cider with souvenir glasses; and chocolate covered strawberries. Price from $400/couple depending upon restaurant and package add-ons selected.
Date: Thursday, December 03, 2009 - Saturday, May 15, 2010
Package Price: from $400 couple
Telephone: Toll Free: (866) INN-1895 Local: (757) 422-1956
Email: innkeepers@barclaycottage.com
Website: www.barclaycottage.com
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Don't miss this Memorial Day happening, either!
Memorial Day Weekend Rember the Music - Remember the Heroes
Region: Tidewater and Hampton Roads
Virginia Beach Oceanfront
On the boardwak and in the 17th, 24th and 31st Street Parks
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
A "Star-Spangled" salute to good music and great fun! Live music on three outdoor stages. The "Heroes Walk" stretches along the boardwalk from 17th St to 31st St. A fireworks show on Sunday night completes the weekend, with bursts of red, white and blue light reflecting over the ocean in the thrilling climax to a great Memorial Day weekend.
Date: Open Daily Friday, May 28, 2010 - Sunday, May 30, 2010
Children Welcome
Telephone: Virginia Beach Visitor Center: (757) 491-7866
Website: www.beachstreetusa.com
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See our Virginia Beach Oceanfront Condos website too! |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 1:26 AM
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| Monday, March 08, 2010 |
| New Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is on the Way |
According to the Sun News, the new Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is 99% finished on the north side, from Mr. Joe White Ave to 14th Ave North.
City Manager Tom Leath says people are so excited about the new boardwalk that the construction workers are having a problem keeping them off the unfinished decking.
Downtown store owners are remodeling their storefronts that meet the walkways, and trying to spiff everything up to take advantage of the visitors - hopeful that they will get some traffic in their establishments as well. Some have hired area architects to really make them shine.
Leath says the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk should be mostly completed by Easter, and plans are in motion for some sidewalk cafes to bring it to life.
The boardwalk is costing the city of Myrtle Beach Six million dollars, but it won't take long before tourist revenues will make that up. In the last few years, North Myrtle Beach condo rentals have seen more business than Myrtle Beach itself, and they need to do something like this to keep up with their "little sister city" who is beginning to outshine them. North Myrtle Beach real estate is going full guns as well, and if you check some of the search engine phrase counts right now, North Myrtle Beach is beating them in internet searches across the board.
As well, the Second Avenue Pier is being remodeled, with a new gift shop and pier building going up in the next several weeks. The pier owners intend to build a new two-story parking and retail establishment to add competition to Cherry Grove's Prince Resort and shiny new pier. Let the competition begin! The better things are, the better it is for both cities and the entire Grand Strand area.
Visit our websites for Myrtle Beach Kids and the Cheapest Insurance in Myrtle Beach. |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 3:44 PM
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| Friday, February 26, 2010 |
| North Carolina Barbeque in North Myrtle Beach! |
Finally! After 20 years since leaving High Point, NC, I just had my first meal of barbeque that is what I grew up with - red slaw and all.
The Piedmont area of North Carolina, and its close neighbor, Lexington, NC has been famous for barbeque for a hundred years or more, I think. For sure it isn't the same thing you get in South Carolina. We don't use sauce made from ketchup. The meat is moist, but served plain. You put what you want on it, or nothing at all. The slaw doesn't contain mayonaise. The hushpuppies aren't sweet. If you're lucky, you finish it up with a serving of somebody's homemade banana pudding. When I go back home, I have two required meals - Henry James BBQ and Sir Pizza. The latter being the best pizza in the world, and nothing like any other pizza anywhere.
In the past month or so, we've had two new barbeque places to open in North Myrtle. I haven't been to the other one, but when I go, I'll review it as well. Today I enjoyed the closest thing to my favorite Henry James BBQ at our new "Bar-B-Que House", which moved into the old Fazoli's restaurant close to the Cherry Grove exit on 17.
Most people in North Carolina brag about Lexington BBQ. I've never been able to see that subtle difference between our little places in High Point and the "famous" Lexington barbeque, but many people swear they can. I think some of the Lexington stuff has more fat cut up in it. We had one place in High Point called Kepley's BBQ that was equally as "fatty". It has a better flavor with a little fat in it, I think...but nowadays everybody wants the lean stuff. So if you go to North Carolina, look up a Henry James. And the new Bar-B-Que House here is about as fat-free as any barbeque I've ever seen. Literally, I couldn't find even a scrap. It made the meat a bit dry, but when you add your favorite sauce to it, that's not a bad thing. And it's definitely better for your cholesterol!
They have a nice little website at www.BestBBQontheBeach.com and a good copy of their menu can be found HERE. The prices are very reasonable (even cheap!) and the portions are nice sized. You can get a barbeque plate with hushpuppies and 2 sides for $6.99 or $7.99 for a larger plate. I didn't eat all of the regular plate, but I only got 4 hushpuppies and ended up ordering a side of them to finish up. The trick to eating NC BBQ is a bite of meat, a bite of red slaw, and a bite of hushpuppy all at the same time. The flavors blended together are what makes it!
They offer some extra good side items - sweet potato fries, which I love, collard greens, green beans, red or mayonaise slaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, potato salad, fried okra, onion rings, and regular fries. Quite a selection!
Aside from chopped barbeque, they also have slabs of ribs, barbeque chicken, fried chicken, wings, chicken strips, Brunswick stew, veggie plate with side items, and several combos.
Ala Carte, you can get a bbq sandwich, burger, corn dog, hot dog, chicken, or even grilled balogna. The most expensive is a double burger for $4.99, and the others vary from $1.79 to $3.69. Very good prices. The side items alone are from $1.59 to $2.29. They also have seniors and kid's special prices. AND they serve breakfast. If you need more info, visit their website and menu.
Good stuff! I was very pleased. I got out for under $12, and even had some banana pudding for dessert!
I'll rate the Bar-B-Que House 4 Stars!
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posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 10:54 PM
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| Tuesday, February 09, 2010 |
| Foreclosure Help - The Chase is On |
Consumer Affairs reported this week that Chase Home Finance has seemingly been making its own rules for utilizing the federal incentives meant to prevent foreclosures.
The $75 billion dollar federal program made strong guidelines for the participating mortgage companies. In return for agreeing to follow the guidelines, the mortgage companies are paid to modify loans, lowering payments to no more than 31% of income, lowering interest rates, and hopefully helping consumers to keep their homes.
It seems as though Chase turned down a large percentage of potential modifications for a trumped up reason it invented, citing, "Your hardship is not of a permanent nature."
So many homeowners were turned down that the Treasury Department explicitly barred the banks from using that as a legitimate reason for denial. They are telling homeowners that were denied to reapply, although Chase has not officially agreed to reassess their decisions. Chase in particular has been "outed" as being the worst offender.
Anyone who is struggling to meet mortgage payments or facing foreclosure should read this article, and approach their mortgage company with the knowledge that there are programs available to help.
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For information about Albuquerque homes for sale, Oceanfront real estate, or SC Homeowners Insurance, visit these bolded links. |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 8:51 AM
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| Tuesday, January 12, 2010 |
| Winter Tips From an Allstate Insurance Agent |
Keep your South Carolina Car Insurance premiums low this winter by preventing problems and claims. Below are some tips from Scott Todd at Todd Insurance Agency and Allstate Myrtle Beach.
1. Check antifreeze every year and be sure it will protect to extreme coldness.
2. Check the air pressure on your tires and maintain the manufacturer's suggested pressure.
3. If your location will have snow, be sure you have snow tires or at least chains available and ready.
4. To prevent your locks from freezing, buy inexpensive magnet strips and place them over the locks when you leave the car.
5. Wash your car frequently to prevent any salt buildup.
6. Carry a couple of roof shingles in the trunk to help with traction if your car gets stuck.
7. Replace an old battery BEFORE the coldest weather strikes. If you can't afford it, keep your vehicle covered or remove the battery and keep it in a protected place.
8. Carry a long piece of cardboard in the trunk and place it over the windshield when snow or ice is in the forecast.
Help keep your SC Homeowners Insurance premiums low with these easy steps:
1. Turn off outdoor water sources from inside. Some people wrap the spigot in cloth to help retain some warmth.
2. Remove any window air conditioning units.
3. Apply insulation tape to windows and around doors if needed.
4. Drain and store any outdoor hoses or fluid containers.
5. Keep your heat turned to 55-60 degrees even in vacant apartments.
6. Keep your home heating filters changed frequently
7. Keep lawnmowers, blowers, tools, etc. protected and enclosed.
8. Be prepared with salt or snow tools ready and available.
9. Seal all cracks or crevices in the home to prevent mice or other animals from nesting in your home.
10. Check and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Thanks to Scott for the article and the tips! Photos of Minneapolis in the snow by Renee Dahring, Nurse Practitioner Job Search Coach.
See some other interesting sites:
SC Attorneys
Myrtle Beach Condo Rentals
Albuquerque Real Estate |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 4:53 PM
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| Saturday, October 31, 2009 |
| What You Need to Know When Insuring Property on the Coast |
This guest article was written by Elizabeth Johnson, who regularly writes on the topic of online construction management degrees . She welcomes your comments and questions at her email address: Elizabeth.Johnson1@rediffmail.com.In a world full of uncertainties, you would be a fool not to insure your valuables and assets. And when it comes to buying insurance for property, there are certain aspects that you must be aware of, especially when your home is on the coast, in the mountains or in any other special location. If you have just invested in oceanfront property on the coast, here is what you need to know before purchasing insurance: - If you are going to live in the home full time, then you may have to go about insuring it against the usual factors like theft, damage and destruction caused by the elements of nature, and of course, accidental destruction because of human negligence or carelessness.
- Homes near the coast may be more prone to damage and destruction because of hurricanes or tsunamis (if you live in an area that is prone to huge waves or earthquakes), so ensure that your policy takes care of all these details as well.
- Ensure that your policy is detailed and includes every kind of damage possible. To give you an example, someone I know took out a policy insuring their home against damage from a storm. Unfortunately, the insurance company refused to pay up because even though there was a storm, the damage was caused by rising flood water. So be very specific in order to avoid both having to pay for insurance and not being able to make use of it. Be as conscientious about insuring your home as you are about your own health when buying a health insurance policy.
- If your home on the coast is more like vacation property that you visit once in a while, your homeowners policy may need more coverage to safeguard your home from theft and vandalism as well as the usual perils. An unguarded, empty home is a haven for miscreants who are looking for easy money. Some insurance companies insist on insuring your primary home as well if you want to buy a policy for your seasonal or vacation home, so discuss this with your agent before you sign up.
Speak to a reliable insurance agent and know all your options before you decide on a policy. Our Myrtle Beach Allstate agent, Scott Todd is one of the best. Visit his website at http://www.carolinapolicies.com/ and take advantage of his "Ask an Insurance Expert" service. You can find the answer to many of your questions about South Carolina Homeowners Insurance, HO6 insurance, or Renters Insurance in SC. 
Our thanks to Elizabeth for her great article! |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 7:40 AM
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| Saturday, October 24, 2009 |
| Myrtle Beach Condos at Barefoot Resort Face Problems |
 One of the most beautiful resorts on the Grand Strand is the Barefoot Resort Yacht Club. Just a notch or two below the famous Grande Dunes Marina Inn, I've watched these units sell for more than a year now. They are priced higher than most all of the oceanfront condos in Myrtle Beach, which seems to follow the pattern of the waterway condos in Miami - down there, oceanfront condos are a dime a dozen, and those on the Intracoastal Waterway are in the millions.
And now it seems that the on-site rental management company Barefoot chose to represent itself has absconded with the rental money and disappeared. Premier Resorts out of Utah closed down last week and even left the owners with no keys to get into their own units!
Carolina First Bank filed foreclosure proceedings in September, along with a lawsuit against the company for defaulting on two loans totalling $6.75 million dollars. The company also owns the wonderful marina in front of the resort, the restaurant Docksiders, and 70 acres of land in the Barefoot Resort community. They even owe owners of the boat slips for rental monies due them.
 About 35 of the owners met to discuss the situation and try to decide on the next course of action. The court has appointed our local Noble Company as receiver of the property, changing locks and going through financial records. A representative of Noble states they are NOT going to take over the rental management of the units, however.
Myrtle Beach has several longtime rental management companies such as CondoLux and Condo-World, and they have a stellar record, as well as having been in the business for 20 plus years. Either of these companies is a good choice for these beleagured owners. There are also many small North Myrtle Beach real estate agencies that handle rentals. Hopefully these owners will find the best company for their needs and eventually recover their lost rental money. It just goes to show that on-site rental management is not the best or easiest course of action.
Maintaining a profitable rental property, whether it's a Myrtle Beach waterway condo or on the ocean, requires a good rental management situation, maintaining good SC Condo insurance coverage, and a pro-active and diligent HOA to monitor it all. It's a shame that these owners have to go through this, though. Barefoot Resort is one of the finest properties on the Grand Strand. |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 1:09 PM
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| Monday, August 31, 2009 |
| South Carolina Insurance - How to Save Money |
I recently spent about an hour in my Allstate agent's office. Scott Todd, an agent in North Myrtle Beach, has an assistant that really knows her stuff and taught me some things about insurance in South Carolina thatI didn't know. I'm about to tell you what I learned, and how to get the best deal on all kinds of South Carolina insurance. It's probably the same in other states as well.
Allstate - The Cheapest Car Insurance
Let me preface this article by saying that this information is for people who have nearly perfect driving records. Allstate has long been known for being THE preferred insurance for safe drivers, adult drivers, and ticket-free records.
I've been driving for more than 35 years. I've never gotten a ticket! I had a couple of very small bump-ups 20 some years ago, but didn't file a claim on them. So my record is about as perfect as it can be.
I had my insurance with Allstate in my early 20's. Then I married a guy who had a DWI. Allstate promptly cancelled my policy. That was about 1980. I can't say if they still do that, but keep reading. I went with State Farm for a while, and eventually changed to Nationwide Insurance. At that time they were the next lowest, and I stayed with them for 20 years. TWENTY YEARS, mind you! No tickets, no claims. During this time I moved from North Carolina to Myrtle Beach, SC. The price increased a bit, but not much.
 What bothered me was that I had an older car. I was driving a Chevy Cavalier at the time...probably the most innocuous car that exists. It was worth about $6000. I kept collision on it. But instead of going down on the premium each year, it seemed to increase.
In approximately 2005, I started checking other companies. Geico was even higher! State Farm was the worst. I checked several independents, and then one day I called Allstate and spoke to Scott. THEY CUT MY PREMIUM IN HALF! I kid you not. Allstate was able to take me on as a brand new customer at one-half the premium of being with Nationwide for twenty-plus years with a spotless driving record. Needless to say, I switched. Some 4 years later, I'm driving a Ford Thunderbird and still very pleased with my car insurance premiums.
If you have a perfect driving record, you can get North and South Carolina auto insurance at a SUBSTANTIAL SAVINGS with Allstate. I did it. I know it first hand.
Recently I inquired about HO6 or H06 condo insurance with Allstate. I was able to get $26,000 in contents insurance for $170 a year. Again, that is about half what a normal HO6 policy costs. $10,000 is only $117 a year! But there is a trick to this.
Allstate is very choosy about insuring condos and homes on the coast. In fact, they stopped writing it after Katrina and several other hurricanes wiped out so many homes. They are once again writing condo insurance, BUT ONLY IF YOU ALREADY HAVE YOUR CAR OR OTHER INSURANCE WITH ALLSTATE.
If you are a new customer inquiring about HO6 or rental insurance, you will be quoted a price from another independent agency that Allstate agents carry. There is only one other company that Allstate allows them to use. The policy is higher than almost any other company - around $500 minimum. However, it does include wind and hail insurance, which a regular contents policy does not include.
Starting this year, if your condo or home is outside the federal wind/hail limits (west of the Intracoastal Waterway) then you have to spend another minimum of $250-300 to be covered for hurricanes and storms that include wind. Basically this non-Allstate policy is about $100 higher than Allstate's policy when you figure this in. If you don't understand this, you may just write the quote off as being too high. Instead, consider moving your other insurance to Allstate!
 That is the point to all of this. Allstate gives you a multi-policy discount. By having your car, homeowner or condo insurances with them, they discount even more off the premiums. Plus if you have your North Carolina or South Carolina car insurance with Allstate, then you can get a super cheap policy for your home or condo...and get wind and hail coverage separately. They already charge about one-half the premium of other auto insurance companies. Are you ready to save money on your insurance?
I believe in Allstate so much that I convinced Scott to let me handle his website. I'm learning more as I go along. But this is just simple math. If you want the cheapest South Carolina car insurance, visit www.carolinapolicies.com and get a quote. You'll be in good hands...:-)
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posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 3:20 AM
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| Wednesday, June 10, 2009 |
| Sarasota Florida Real Estate |
 Sarasota Florida Real Estate –
Resort Living in Coastal Cities
If you are selling your Myrtle Beach real estate and heading a little closer to the Gulf of Mexico, Annette Smith and John Allen of Allen Real Estate Services, Inc. have provided some insight on this coastal city.
Sarasota, Florida is the cultural capital on Florida’s South West Coast. With the Sarasota Symphony Orchestra, the Ringling Museum of Art and the Van Wetzel Hall of Performing Arts, Sarasota’s residents experience outstanding performances and view galleries featuring extraordinary art collections.
John Ringling’s artistic influence spread to Sarasota’s famous St. Armands Circle where Ringing coordinated the development of Circle. A Park in the Center of the Circle provides the circus history of Sarasota as well as providing a stage for many outdoor concerts and events.
Sarasota’s Bayfront is as captivating as any painting in Ringling’s collection. Passing the Marina, visitors from around the world lose their breath as they pass moored sailboats that never seem to change locations. The Bayfront Park is home to multiple sculptures and the Dophin Fountain is featured at the tip of the Park across from the Marina.
The barrier islands of Sarasota provide some of the world’s whitest beaches. Casey Key, Siesta Key, Lido Key and Longboat Key are perfect for those visitors and residents who just require sand in their toes.
The Barrier Islands
Siesta Key just moved from last years 3rd place to runner-up in Dr. Beach’s list of 2009 Best Beach in the country announced May 22 by Stephen P. Leatherman, known as Dr. Beach. This world famous beach is famous for it sparking white sand which is cool to the touch. The sand is perfect for walking barefoot and building sandcastles. Many Siesta Key homes are on winding canals leading to the Intracoastl Waterway.
Casey Key to the south of Siesta Key is home to many celebrities and this 8 mile barrier island features luxurious mansions and estates. Many small beach cottages still exist on
Casey Key but are being bought for land value and raised. Homes on Casey Key start in the millions and the island is popular with celebrities due to its privacy.
Lido Key just west of St. Armands Circle is a European style beach. Many visitors to Lido Beach travel from France, England and Italy for extended holidays. St. Armands Circle’s shopping world-class restaurants are steps away.
Manicured Longboat Key is slightly north of St. Armands Circle. Visitors and residents enjoy private beaches, long walks and cool ocean breezes. Restaurants on Longboat Key are excellent. St. Armands Circle and downtown Sarasota restaurants, shopping and Palm Avenue galleries are a short drive from Longboat too.
Downtown Sarasota
Downtown Sarasota provides an urban lifestyle that residents are requesting. Walking to the library, bookstore, specialty shops, professional building, galleries or driving short distances is the new wave in most cities, and Sarasota is providing outstanding venues in the downtown area for its residents. A new roundabout is schedule to start construction in 2009. Downtown Sarasota condominiums are popular with each generation of Sarasotans.
Come visit Sarasota to enjoy not only our beaches but experience the culture and excitement of our vibrant city. Sarasota homes for sale are available on the mainland, the barrier island as well as downtown Sarasota.
Email Annette or John Allen for more information on the Sarasota area. Sarasota Florida real estate is experiencing a market comeback being one of South West Florida prime destinations.
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Visit my website for Florida Oceanfront Property for more info on other Florida resorts. |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 1:06 AM
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| Monday, March 30, 2009 |
| Cats Musicial at Carolina Forest High School |
Tonight I had the pleasure of attending one of the most outstanding live shows I've ever been lucky enough to hear about - The Carolina Forest High School's production of "Cats".
Cats is a musical composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber based on "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats", by T. S. Eliot. It introduced the well known song, "Memory", recorded by Barbra Streisand. (her version unrelated to the actual show)
The story is about a tribe of cats that call themselves the Jellicle Cats, who meet in a junkyard once a year for the Jellicle Ball. The party each year ends as the head of the Jellicles, Old Deutoronomy, chooses one cat who can be reborn and find happiness.
Much of the musical is introducing various cats of notoriety, and suggestions of which cat is most worthy of the honor. A few of the characters were most noteworthy for me to mention:
The Rum Tum Tugger is a tom with leopard spots and a wild mane, who is arrogant and loves the women. Bustopher Jones is a huge fat cat with a fastidiious black coat, very rich and very proud and prissy. (and did I mention FAT)
 The main character in the story is old Grizabella...a tired, worn out ex-glamour cat who is now old, tattered, and miserable. The other cats shun her, nobody will touch her, and she sings the very sad song, "Memory". Memory, all alone in the moonlight
I can smile at the old days
I was beautiful then
I remember the time I knew what happiness was...
Let the memory live again
(the last verse)
Touch me - It's so easy to leave me
All alone with the memory
Of my days in the sun
If you touch me
You'll understand what happiness is
Look - A new day has begun
 Another old cat, Asparagus, or Gus The Theatre Cat, was once a famous actor but now is old and his paws shake with palsy. He too sings of his youth and the lives that he lived.
Then the evil cat of the tribe, MaCavity, kidnaps Old Deuteronomy and a battle ensues to get him back. The cats drive MaCavity away, but it takes Mistoffelees the Magic Cat to bring Deutoronomy back, just in time for the "choosing" to be made.
Just as I was fussing to myself why Old Deutoronomy allowed the poor Grizabella to be so badly treated, he chooses HER to be reborn and find her happiness. He leads her to a stairway to the stars, and though she is fearful, she crosses to find her destiny and be happy again.
 I've seen the Broadway tour of Cats twice, and this high school production was every bit as professional and talented as the singers and dancers on the Broadway show. Everyone in the audience was positively amazed at the beautiful voices and fabulous dancing these kids put forth. If you can imagine the dancers from the show "Fame", coupled with a live orchestra (the Carolina Forest Band) that didn't miss a note, you can begin to understand just what a fantastic show this was. The stage was perfect, the costumes elaborate and true to the Broadway show. It was just a magical experience, and especially enjoyable to someone like me who loves cats. I think I smiled the entire first hour of the show, as one after another of the characters sashayed around the stage with tails held high. (well maybe not high...but very apparent!)
In the second set, they even had a group of "kittens" playing, as the mothers washed and pushed them around the stage. It was unbelievably cute.
 If Myrtle Beach can produce high school talent like this, there's at least one school in South Carolina that goes beyond excellence. Carolina Forest is also one of five district schools that surpassed the national SAT average, with a score of 1024. We can stand with the best in the country claiming this wonderful school as our own.
The students and faculty of Carolina Forest High School must be proud enough to burst. For sure the sold out audience was thrilled and proud that Myrtle Beach has been blessed with these amazing and talented young people. What an awesome production!
### Looking for Myrtle Beach Kids Attractions? Amusement Parks, Mini Golf, Entertainment for kids. Find the most comprehensive Myrtle Beach real estate information and Myrtle Beach Vacations with Condolux of North Myrtle Beach. |
posted by Myrtle Beach Web Design @ 6:03 AM
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