Thrivin' at The Beach

In this episode of Thrivin’ at the Beach, the focus is on workforce and economic development resources in the Waccamaw region. Our guest Rusty Gaskins, Business and Economic Services Manager for the Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments (COG), discusses the various services they offer to local governments and municipalities and the importance of community partnerships and collaboration in enhancing the local economy and workforce.SummaryIn this episode of Thrivin’ at the Beach, the focus is on workforce and economic development resources in the Waccamaw region. Our guest Rusty Gaskins, Business and Economic Services Manager for the Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments (COG), discusses the various services they offer to local governments and municipalities and the importance of community partnerships and collaboration in enhancing the local economy and workforce.LinksWaccamaw Regional Council of Governments https://www.wrcog.org/ SC Works https://waccamawworks.org/ Where to watch Thrivin’ at the Beach podcastsYouTube: Watch here Amazon Music: Listen here Audioboom: Listen here Spotify: Listen here Apple Podcasts: Listen here

In this episode of Thrivin’ at the Beach, the focus is on workforce development in the Myrtle Beach area. Host Peggy Masterson introduces Eileen Patonay from the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce, alongside co-host BJ Beaver. Eileen outlines her role as a regional workforce advisor and shares insights on fostering a strong workforce pipeline, emphasizing the importance of partnerships with schools, businesses, and local organizations. Key initiatives discussed include the YES Program for youth employability, the 'Build Something Amazing' event for trades, and the Youth Leadership Camp at Coastal Carolina University. The podcast highlights the importance of community collaboration in preparing students for future careers and the positive impact of these initiatives on local workforce development. Linkshttps://dew.sc.gov/Where to watch Thrivin’ at the Beach podcastsYouTube: Watch here Amazon Music: Listen here Audioboom: Listen here Spotify: Listen here Apple Podcasts: Listen here 

In this Highlight episode of Thrivin’ at the Beach, host Peggy Masterson, Director of Partnership Grand Strand, recaps past interviews with local leaders to showcase key insights and developments. In this episode, she recounts her conversation with Steve Mays, President of Founders Group International. Golf is a huge driver of both revenue and tourism for our community, and hopefully visitors have a great experience on our courses. Coming to Myrtle Beach permanently all starts with a visit, and Steve intends to be able to deliver a great golf experience. Steve is also an active community member. Tune in and learn more!LinksListen to full episode:  https://audioboom.com/posts/8637484-a-chat-with-steve-mays-founders-group-internationalFounders Group International Website  Learn more about the organization managing 21 Myrtle Beach golf courses, including their commitment to maintaining world-class facilities and community engagement.Visit Founders Group InternationalWhere you can watch Thrivin’. PGS YouTube: Watch here Amazon Music: Listen here Audioboom: Listen here Spotify: Listen here Apple Podcasts: Listen here

Tune in to listen to Casey Garavito, DPT and co-founder of Performance & Rehabilitation (PAR) Physical Therapy. A strong advocate for conservative care, learn how the PAR team provides high-quality care, education, and preventive strategies that help individuals manage injuries early, improve functional health, and avoid unnecessary medications, surgeries, or emergency care. PAR also offers complimentary community workshops throughout the year, and much more to keep our communities healthy. Linkshttps://www.parphysicaltherapy.com/

In this Highlight episode of Thrivin’ at the Beach, the focus turns to Bruce Bailey, CEO of Tidelands Health, who discusses their position as the largest not-for-profit healthcare organization in the Southeastern U.S. and their substantial economic impact. The new Tidelands Health Carolina Bays Campus project, which, in collaboration with the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), aims to centralize multiple medical specialties, including cancer care and neurosurgery. The initiative seeks to enhance patient experience by offering quicker evaluations and treatments locally. Bailey's community involvement and future-focused leadership are also emphasized.Links:Listen to full episode: https://audioboom.com/posts/8652530-s2-ep3-a-chat-with-bruce-bailey-tidelands-healthTidelands Health – Official Website Learn more about Tidelands Health, its services, and its commitment to improving community health:https://www.tidelandshealth.orgCarolina Bays Hospital Project Stay updated on the upcoming Carolina Bays Campus, a multi-specialty hospital opening in Horry County:https://www.tidelandshealth.org/carolina-baysMUSC Health Partnerships Discover how Tidelands Health collaborates with MUSC for specialty care and expanded services:https://muschealth.orgHealthcare Workforce Development Explore initiatives and training programs addressing the challenge of attracting and retaining healthcare talent:https://www.ahec.orgWhere you can watch Thrivin’.PGS YouTube: Watch hereAmazon Music: Listen hereAudioboom: Listen hereSpotify: Listen hereApple Podcasts: Listen here

Join us as we chat with Frank Cranfield, the director of operations for Germ Bust My Bins, and learn about their success story and the services they offer. Don't miss this inspiring conversation! Links https://germbustmybins.com/ Where to watch Thrivin’ at the Beach podcastsYouTube: Watch here Amazon Music: Listen here Audioboom: Listen here Spotify: Listen here Apple Podcasts: Listen here 

Highlights of Tracy Connor’s Impact on Myrtle Beach Golf TourismIn this special episode of Our Thrivin’ at the Beach Podcast, host Peggy Masterson recaps key insights from past conversations, specifically focusing on Tracy Conner, the executive director of the Myrtle Beach Golf Course Owners Association and Golf Tourism Solutions. Tracy discusses his role in promoting golf tourism, including bringing the World Amateur event and the One Flight Golf Classic to Myrtle Beach, which significantly boost the local economy. He also shares his interim leadership at the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce, where he unified community efforts and maintained vital programs. Tune in to celebrate another local leader making a difference.Links:Listen to full episode: https://audioboom.com/posts/8569332-a-chat-with-tracy-conner-episode-3-thrivin-at-the-beach Myrtle Beach Golf Course Owners Association: Visit WebsiteGolf Tourism Solutions: Learn MoreTranscript: So welcome to another episode of Our Thriving at the Beach Podcast. I'm Peggy Masterson, the Director of Partnership Grand Strand, and I have been so privileged to be your host for this podcast. If you've been a listener, you probably already know that we have been putting this podcast out in the world since the fall of 24.I can't believe it's been almost a year. And during this time we have interviewed over 30 local leaders or business owners. And have learned so much along the way. We've learned a ton about our local community. It's been a journey, so today's episode is gonna be a little different than the others.It's just me today, and I will be recapping some of the highlights from our past episodes. We're doing this to refresh your mind on what these local leaders had to share about the work they're doing when they were on the podcast, and that's if you've already been a listener. We hope that these mini sessions, or these mini highlights will provide any new listener with some real examples of the meaningful content that is contained in each Thrivin’ episode.So we're so glad you've join us today, and let's go ahead and get started. Today's highlight podcast is about Tracy Conner. And Tracy Conner is the executive director of the Myrtle Beach Golf Course Owners Association, and he's also the executive director of Golf Tourism Solutions. Obviously the Golf Course owners association speaks for itself, but Golf Tourism Solutions is a cooperative marketing organization that has been formed to really promote golf in our Myrtle Beach and surrounding communities.So Tracy's been busy. He's been highly involved in the golf world for a long time. One of the things he shared with me that I thought was really interesting is this Golf Tourism Solutions marketing organization is really responsible for bringing the World Amateur event here to the Myrtle Beach area.It is the world's largest amateur golf tournament and attracts over 3,200 amateur golfers to Myrtle Beach every year in August. After all Myrtle Beach is the golf capital of the world, as Tracy says, and he reminds us that golf is a whole lot more than just something fun to do. It is a huge economic driver, especially for our area.The golf courses across the Myrtle Beach area are not only great for tourism, but also for the residents. The revenue that is generated is big business, and they play a crucial role in what makes up what's different, better, and special about Myrtle Beach. Tracy is a very modest individual. He's one of those kinds of leaders that never needs to get credit for his success, but rather recognizes the team and their efforts.He has been in Myrtle Beach for quite some time and has stepped up to play an active role in supporting Myrtle Beach. Whenever asked, some of his most notable projects that have impacted the area are his role in bringing the One Flight Golf Classic to Myrtle Beach. This is an event that brings over $15 million in revenue to our area now, and you can easily see how the PGA would find it valuable to secure the support of local golf courses and golf professionals as they're determining whether to bring a tournament like that to our town.Another recent example was Tracy stepped up to serve as the interim CEO of the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce from August through mid-June 25. While he was in that interim role, he kept programs running, retained our voice in Columbia, and worked to unify our 14 grand communities to rally around that whole notion of being a single voice.Another example of a tireless leader. Doing great things in the background to drive prosperity for us, and I hope you'll listen to the full episode to get a little more information about what Tracy had to say. Thrivin’ is now releasing a brand new episode every week. We are also evolving to make our episodes a little shorter, so you'll still get great content without a huge time commitment.We want you to know that we created this podcast for you, the local resident, you the local business, and you the students across the Grand Strand. Thrivin’ is available wherever you'll get your podcasts, and it's also on our website. Keep listening, keep thrivin’, and perhaps share our podcast with a friend.Thanks so much for listening.

Linkshttps://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/listings/sheraton-myrtle-beach-convention-center-hotel  https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/myrsi-sheraton-myrtle-beach/overview/?_ga-ft=aGQAHw.AA.AA.AA.AA.UqG9AxJSTu6sjTkmKFtg6g..0.VISITMB.&utm_campaign=vmb-website&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=visitmyrtlebeach Where to watch Thrivin’ at the Beach podcastsYouTube: Watch here Amazon Music: Listen here Audioboom: Listen here Spotify: Listen here Apple Podcasts: Listen here 

Links Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Details about the Chamber's mission, programs, and the benefits it provides to its members. This is helpful for understanding the resources available to local businesses and nonprofits. https://www.myrtlebeachareachamber.com  Leadership Grand Strand Program Learn more about the Leadership Grand Strand program, including alumni stories, program goals, and community impact under Shannon Furtick’s leadership. https://www.leadershipgrandstrand.com  Member Benefits at Myrtle Beach Area Chamber A guide to member benefits, including networking, discounts, and exclusive events managed by Shannon Furtick for Chamber members. https://www.myrtlebeachareachamber.com/membership/benefits/  Nonprofit Council Information about the Nonprofit Council, its support for over 1,000 nonprofits, and its impact on community service and leadership in Myrtle Beach. https://www.myrtlebeachareachamber.com/nonprofit-council  Chamber's Advocacy and Community Engagement An overview of how the Chamber advocates for business and community interests, promoting growth and sustainability within Myrtle Beach. https://www.myrtlebeachareachamber.com/advocacy/  Where you can watch Thrivin’.  PGS YouTube: Watch hereAmazon Music: Listen hereAudioboom: Listen hereSpotify: Listen hereApple Podcasts: Listen here

Where you can watch Thrivin’. PGS YouTube: Watch hereAmazon Music: Listen hereAudioboom: Listen hereSpotify: Listen hereApple Podcasts: Listen here

https://www.cityofmyrtlebeach.com/ https://www.facebook.com/myrtlebeachcitygovernment/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/city-of-myrtle-beach https://x.com/MyrtleBeachGov https://www.instagram.com/myrtlebeachgov/ https://myrtlebeachpointofview.wordpress.com/ https://www.buzzsprout.com/972079

Burr & Forman LLP Learn more about Stewart Miller's law firm and their services: https://www.burr.com  Starting a Business in Myrtle Beach Comprehensive resources for starting and running a business in Myrtle Beach: https://www.cityofmyrtlebeach.com  Zoning and Compliance Resources Myrtle Beach zoning ordinances and compliance information: https://www.horrycounty.org/zoning  Liability Protection for Businesses An overview of liability protection strategies for business owners: https://www.sba.gov/  Partnership Grand Strand Details about the initiatives and programs supporting Myrtle Beach’s growth: https://www.partnershipgrandstrand.com  Legal Counsel and Business Development Why businesses need legal counsel to grow and thrive: https://www.americanbar.org/ Where you can watch Thrivin’.  PGS YouTube: Watch here Amazon Music: Listen here Audioboom: Listen here Spotify: Listen here Apple Podcasts: Listen here 

Links Habitat for Humanity of Horry Countyhttps://habitathorry.org/ YouTube: Watch here Amazon Music: Listen here Audioboom: Listen here Spotify: Listen here Apple Podcasts: Listen here 

Sarah Bonnoitt, Director of Public Affairs for Horry Telephone Cooperative (HTC), discussed the company's history, mission, and impact on Myrtle Beach's economic growth. HTC, founded in 1952, has evolved to focus on internet services and now serves a tri-county region. The company is a cooperative, reinvesting profits into the community and offering capital credits to members. HTC's early investment in fiber optics, starting in 2007, has resulted in nearly 100% broadband access, aiding the region during the pandemic. The company is upgrading its network to support 10 Gbps speeds and expanding fiber deployment. HTC's efforts in community philanthropy and economic development, including the HTC Aspire Hub, were also highlighted.

Where you can watch Thrivin’.  PGS YouTube: Watch here Amazon Music: Listen here Audioboom: Listen here Spotify: Listen here Apple Podcasts: Listen here Hop2it Consulting: Click here

1. **Waccamaw Community Foundation**      [Learn more about the foundation's mission and initiatives.] (https://www.waccamawcf.org )    2. **Waccamaw American Leadership Forum (WALF)**      [Explore the leadership program fostering collaboration in the region.] (https://www.waccamawcf.org/walf )    3. **Nonprofit Support and Resources**      [Discover tools and services for nonprofits in Horry and Georgetown counties.] (https://www.waccamawcf.org/nonprofits )    4. **Community Philanthropy Trends**      [Insights into building community funds and their long-term impact.] (https://www.cof.org )    5. **Regional Collaboration Initiatives**      [Examples of how regional efforts are addressing key challenges.] (https://www.brookings.edu/research/building-regional-collaborations )   

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Thrivin’ at the Beach, Dr. Marilyn Fore Summary: Dr. Marilyn Fore, the President of Horry Georgetown Technical College, discussed her journey from undergrad to her shift in focus on education.  Links: PGS YouTube: Watch here Amazon Music: Listen here Audioboom: Listen here Spotify: Listen here Apple Podcasts: Listen here 

Thrivin’ at the Beach, Dr. Pam MartinSummaryDr. Pam Martin, Executive Director of RISE (Resilience, Innovation, and Sustainability through Education) Center at Coastal Carolina University, discussed the importance of sustainability and internships in long-term growth. Martin, with a background in international relations and sustainability research, emphasized the Youth Corps program, which trains students in sustainability metrics and integrates them into local businesses. The program, supported by Partnership Grand Strand, aims to attract and retain talent by offering paid internships and education on sustainability. Martin highlighted the growing demand for green skills and the potential for local businesses to benefit from this workforce development initiative.Links1. **RISE Center at CCU**     [Learn more about the Resilience Innovation and Sustainability Education Center] (https://www.coastal.edu/RISE )  2. **Youth Corps Program Overview**     [Explore the Youth Corps initiative and its impact] (https://www.coastal.edu/RISE/youthcorps )  3. **Partnership Grand Strand**     [Discover how Partnership Grand Strand supports sustainability and workforce development] (https://www.partnershipgrandstrand.com)   4. **Sustainability Workforce Trends**     [Insights on green skills and workforce demands](https://www.bls.gov/green )  5. **Sustainable Business Practices**     [Tools and resources for businesses focusing on sustainability] (https://www.sba.gov/sustainability )  

Howard Waldie IV, the first Chief Innovation Officer for the City of Myrtle Beach, discussed his journey from foster care to becoming a public administrator. He highlighted his role in launching the Office of Performance and Accountability in Virginia Beach, which led to the creation of the Virginia Beach Strategy (VB STAT) and Performance programs. Waldie emphasized the importance of process improvement and technology integration, such as adaptive street lighting that includes AI for traffic control and public Wi-Fi. He also introduced the Living Lab initiative, which invites tech companies to test and prototype new technologies in Myrtle Beach. The city's motto, "First in Service," drives all initiatives to enhance the community's quality of life.

Steve Mays, President of Founders Group International, discusses the golf industry's resurgence, noting that Myrtle Beach's 21 golf courses, owned by Dan Loos, are undergoing significant renovations to attract more players. Mays emphasizes the importance of community involvement and investment, citing his role in local organizations and the success of the Myrtle Beach Classic. He also highlights the alignment between business and government in driving community development, with projects like downtown redevelopment and the proposed Ride 4 initiative set to transform the area.LinksFounders Group International Website Learn more about the organization managing 21 Myrtle Beach golf courses, including their commitment to maintaining world-class facilities and community engagement.Visit Founders Group International​Play Golf Myrtle BeachFounders Group InternationalGrande Dunes Resort Course Explore the recently renovated Grande Dunes, one of Myrtle Beach's premier golf properties, featuring upgraded greens, bunkers, and clubhouse facilities.Grande Dunes Resort Club​Play Golf Myrtle BeachFounders Group InternationalMyrtle Beach Classic Golf Tournament Information about this PGA Tour event, which highlights Myrtle Beach as a leading golf destination.Learn More About the Myrtle Beach Classic​GolfRide 4 Infrastructure Initiative Stay updated on the proposed Ride 4 project aimed at enhancing transportation infrastructure in Myrtle Beach.Read About Ride 4​Play Golf Myrtle BeachGolf Packages and Tee Times For those inspired to visit Myrtle Beach and try the courses discussed, Founders Group International offers booking options and discounts.Book Tee Times at Myrtle Beach Golf Courses​Founders Group InternationalWhere you can watch Thrivin’.PGS YouTube: Watch hereAmazon Music: Listen hereAudioboom: Listen hereSpotify: Listen hereApple Podcasts: Listen here

Ryan Foultz, president and owner of PcRx Computers and host of the weekend radio show on Talk 94.5, Tech Talk sits down with Partnership Grand Strand’s Sarah Dahlstrom. In this episode of Thrivin’, Ryan shares his initiative to create the Big Mixer, a social event created to help business owners find the resources they may need. The success of the Big Mixer has led to the development of additional opportunities to network through Mini Mixers for the business community.The Big Mixer Get info on the latest Mixers https://www.thebigmixer.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/1018952679964556/Tech Talk 94.5 Check out Tech Talk with Ryan Foultz, who enjoys helping customers out with technology questions and meeting the needs of our community.  https://www.talkradiomb.com/on_air/pcrx/PcRx Computers Computer & Laptop Repair https://www.pcrxcomputers.com/ Where you can watch Thrivin’.  YouTube-PGS: Watch here Amazon Music: Listen here Audioboom: Listen here Spotify: Listen here Apple Podcasts: Listen here

Becky Large, founder and CEO of the Champion Autism Network, discusses her efforts to make Myrtle Beach an inclusive destination for individuals on the autism spectrum. Starting in 2013 with sensory-friendly movies, her initiatives have expanded to include training programs for businesses, making Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach the first autism-friendly travel destinations in the U.S. Her organization offers an online training program, an autism travel app, and sensory-friendly events. Large emphasizes the importance of non-judgment and kindness towards families with autism. Her work has gained international attention, with plans to expand globally and a new docu-series on Peacock highlighting her efforts.Champion Autism Network (CAN)Learn more about the organization’s mission, programs, and resources for autism-friendly travel:https://championautismnetwork.comAutism Travel AppExplore the CAN Autism Travel App, a resource for finding autism-friendly destinations and services:https://championautismnetwork.com/autism-travel-appPeacock Docu-SeriesDiscover the upcoming Peacock docu-series featuring Becky Large’s advocacy efforts:https://www.peacocktv.comAutism Friendly Myrtle BeachDetails about how Myrtle Beach became an autism-friendly travel destination:https://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/autismSensory-Friendly Events in Myrtle BeachFind out more about sensory-friendly activities and events in the area:https://www.myrtlebeach.com/sensory-friendlyUnderstanding AutismEducational resources about autism spectrum disorders for businesses and families:https://www.autismspeaks.org Volunteer or Support CANLearn how to get involved with or donate to Champion Autism Network:https://championautismnetwork.com/donateWhere you can watch Thrivin’. YouTube: Watch hereAmazon Music: Listen hereAudioboom: Listen hereSpotify: Listen hereApple Podcasts: Listen here

The "Thrivin’ at the Beach" podcast episode features Laura Crowther, CEO of the Coastal Carolinas Association of Realtors, discussing the state of the real estate market in Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand. Crowther highlights the challenges of a 40-year housing deficit, the impact of inflation on home prices and interest rates, and the need for workforce housing. She emphasizes the importance of the RIDE 4 program, which funds local road improvements, and the association's role in professional development, advocacy, and community projects like Nance Plaza revitalization. Crowther also discusses the growth of permanent residents and the need for strategic planning to maintain the area's quality of life.Links  Partnership Grand Strand FoundationWebsite: https://www.partnershipgrandstrand.comLearn more about the organization behind the podcast and its initiatives. Coastal Carolinas Association of RealtorsWebsite: https://www.ccarsc.orgInformation about the association that Laura Crowther, the podcast guest, leads. RIDE Road Improvement ProgramWebsite: https://www.horrycounty.orgLearn more about the RIDE initiative and how it is improving road infrastructure in the Grand Strand area. Where you can watch Thrivin’. YouTube: Watch hereAmazon Music: Listen hereAudioboom: Listen hereSpotify: Listen hereApple Podcasts: Listen here

This episode features Tashena Chestnut and Amanda Van Natta, professionals in career development with the Horry County School District. They discuss the district’s efforts to prepare students for meaningful careers through its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. These programs introduce students to various career pathways starting in elementary and middle school. They highlighted the CTE Showcase, an initiative designed to connect local businesses with students by offering tours of schools and CTE programs. Additionally, they shared insights into the Build Something Amazing program, which focuses on exposing high school seniors interested in trades to technical college programs and apprenticeships in the community. Throughout the discussion, they emphasized the importance of expanding students' awareness of career options beyond traditional 4-year college routes, aligning these efforts with the needs of Horry County’s growing business sector.LinksLocal Initiatives and Resources Horry County Schools Career and Technical Education Programs – Learn more about the district’s offerings in career development. Build Something Amazing Initiative (HGTC) – Discover programs and apprenticeship opportunities in technical and trade skills. For Listeners Interested in Participating CTE Showcase Information – Details about how businesses can get involved in tours and student connections. General Resources for Business Connections Partnership Grand Strand Website – Information on how local businesses can collaborate with education and community initiatives. Where you can watch Thrivin’. YouTube: Watch hereAmazon Music: Listen hereAudioboom: Listen hereSpotify: Listen hereApple Podcasts: Listen here

Links Carolina Cool Website – Visit Carolina CoolLearn More About HVAC Careers – Explore HVAC CareersOperation Warm Wishes – Learn About Operation Warm WishesInternship & Apprenticeship Opportunities – Find HVAC Training ProgramsWomen in Skilled Trades – Support Women in TradesMyrtle Beach Community Initiatives – See Community EventsLocal Business Collaboration – Learn About Local Business Partnerships Where you can watch Thrivin’. YouTube: Watch hereAmazon Music: Listen hereAudioboom: Listen hereSpotify: Listen hereApple Podcasts: Listen here

The "Thrivin’ at the Beach" podcast episode features Laura Crowther, CEO of the Coastal Carolinas Association of Realtors, discussing the state of the real estate market in Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand. Crowther highlights the challenges of a 40-year housing deficit, the impact of inflation on home prices and interest rates, and the need for workforce housing. She emphasizes the importance of the RIDE 4 program, which funds local road improvements, and the association's role in professional development, advocacy, and community projects like Nance Plaza revitalization. Crowther also discusses the growth of permanent residents and the need for strategic planning to maintain the area's quality of life.Links  Partnership Grand Strand FoundationWebsite: https://www.partnershipgrandstrand.comLearn more about the organization behind the podcast and its initiatives. Coastal Carolinas Association of RealtorsWebsite: https://www.ccrealtors.comInformation about the association that Laura Crowther, the podcast guest, leads. RIDE Road Improvement ProgramWebsite: https://www.horrycounty.orgLearn more about the RIDE initiative and how it is improving road infrastructure in the Grand Strand area. Where you can watch Thrivin’. YouTube: Watch hereAmazon Music: Listen hereAudioboom: Listen hereSpotify: Listen hereApple Podcasts: Listen here

Jimmy Gray and Peggy Masterson discussed initiatives and projects to drive prosperity in the Grand Strand community. They emphasized the importance of collective efforts at local, state, and federal levels to drive long-term prosperity. Jimmy highlighted the crucial role of the penny sales tax in maintaining infrastructure and addressing future workforce needs. Peggy inquired about potential concerns regarding the referendum's complexity. They discussed the need for community collaboration in advocacy efforts and a unified voice in drafting legislative priorities. Links Penny Sales Tax for Infrastructure Projects • Horry County "Ride 3" Sales Tax - Learn how the penny sales tax funds road improvements in Horry County. • Horry County Schools Penny Sales Tax - Information on how the tax supports school improvements, capital projects, and renovations. Local Government Collaboration • National League of Cities - Details on how local, state, and federal governments collaborate for communi

Jason Greene, Executive CEO of the Myrtle Beach Downtown Alliance, discusses the organization's mission to revitalize downtown Myrtle Beach through creative placemaking. The Alliance focuses on events, design guidelines, activating vacant spaces, and promoting community input. Committees engage local stakeholders on planning, safety, marketing, and events. Current priorities include architectural guidelines and preserving the area's history while shaping a flexible, vibrant future that serves both residents and visitors. The goal is to make downtown the welcoming "front door" to the Grand Strand.Links Myrtle Beach Downtown Alliance Overview and Initiatives: This link will take readers to the MBDA's official website, providing detailed information on their efforts to revitalize downtown Myrtle Beach and foster collaboration. Learn more here​(MB Downtown).  Downtown Myrtle Beach Planning and Development: For specifics on design guidelines, current projects, and the future vision of downtown, you can direct your audience to this section on their site. Check it out here​(MB Downtown).Where you can watch Thrivin’. YouTube: Watch hereAmazon Music: Listen hereAudioboom: Listen hereSpotify: Listen hereApple Podcasts: Listen here

LinksMyrtle Beach Arts & Innovation District DevelopmentThis page covers ongoing projects and infrastructure work in the district. Downtown Myrtle Beach Revitalization EffortsExplore the city's plans to redevelop downtown, including the new performing arts theater and historic preservation. Where you can watch Thrivin’ YouTube: Watch hereAmazon Music: Listen hereAudioboom: Listen hereSpotify: Listen hereApple Podcasts: Listen here

Links Myrtle Beach Golf Course Owners Association: Visit WebsiteGolf Tourism Solutions: Learn MoreMyrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce: Explore Here

The "Thrivin at the Beach" podcast, hosted by Peggy Masterson, highlights the economic growth and initiatives in Myrtle Beach and Horry County. Sandy Davis, President and CEO of the Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation, discusses the organization's role in diversifying the economy beyond tourism, focusing on recruiting and retaining industries with 35 employees or more and a $2.5 million capital investment over five years. Key initiatives include product development, utility needs, and workforce housing. Davis emphasizes the importance of community partnerships, particularly with Horry Georgetown Technical College, to support workforce development and attract businesses. Links Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation: https://www.mbredc.org/ Horry Georgetown Technical College: https://www.hgtc.edu/

The "Thriving at the Beach" podcast, hosted by Peggy Masterson, aims to share updates and stories from the Grand Strand community, featuring partners like the city of Myrtle Beach and various alliances. The podcast team includes BJ Beaver and Sarah Dahlstrom, who focus on workforce development and small business retention, respectively. Frankie Colon serves as the producer and editor, ensuring high-quality audio. Mary Ann Joy handles scheduling. The podcast will release new episodes every other week, highlighting local initiatives and successes to inspire and inform the community.