As we reported in the last newsletter, Grande Shores continues its efforts to spruce up all indoor and outdoor areas in preparation for arriving guests for events along the Grand Strand. This month, visitors have come for many reasons, especially to visit Canada-America Days along the Strand and to escape the icy fingers of lingering winter. By next month, we expect travelers to stay longer to enjoy the warm sun, gentle surf, and plentiful activities along the beaches. Easter celebrations, for example, will be among reasons to come see our spring blossoms. Of course, shag dancers have long had their reservations for their SOS Spring Safari.

As May approaches, with even warmer weather, a diverse guest list will include everyone from early summer vacationers, bikers coming for various May rallies, mothers enjoying their beach-getaways for Mother's Day, and many other people with as many other reasons for visiting the beach.

If you still have not made plans, whatever the reason, accommodations are waiting for you.

Hoping to see you soon!

Your Friends at Grande Shores Resort

Grande Shores Honors the Military

During any part of the year, Grande Shores offers members of the armed forces a 20% discount from the price of its condos (this offer is available to active duty, reserves, and retired personnel), and during the month of May you will find special tributes all over our area to show appreciation for members of the military. To be sure, one way to create a terrific customized "R&R" package is to combine our accommodations discount with other specials of choice, such as the "Spa Escape" package.

May holds special significance for the Grand Strand because of plans to feature Myrtle Beach Military Appreciation Days from May 28-30. With accommodations discounts, the military and their families can also plan their itineraries around a wide array of activities and events such as a marksmanship competition, basketball and golf tournaments, concerts, a picnic, a combat cuisine cook-off, 5K run/walk, memorial ceremonies, Navy Seals' demonstration, and so many additional interests to numerous to mention here.

For more information about our military discount, call 800-968-8986. For information about Military Appreciation Days call 843.918.1012 or see or see www.militaryappreciationdays.com/welcome.html.

Easter at Grande Shores

This year occurs on . How about making plans for your military family to get together here for a special Easter, a special celebration of being together? Looking for a way to chase away the winter doldrums? You can't find a better way than welcoming in spring at the beach!

Of course, children bring an extra joy to Easter, so we have Easter-related events, too:

	At check-in, children will be provided with a coloring page so that they can enter our Easter Coloring Contest (winner to be selected Saturday night before Easter Sunday. Prize awarded on Sunday.)
	Also, have your little ones keep an eye open for hidden buried by the Easter Bunny hippity-hopping on his way.

Grande Shores' Featured Guests -- John and Joyce Houghtaling

From their beautiful but still winter-bound state of New York, our featured guests John and Joyce Houghtaling have been visiting us for the past eight years. Originally, they found the hotel when it was under another name. Having seen many changes over time, they have been first-hand witnesses to what is now the grandeur of Grande Shores, as well as the ebb and flow of life along the Grand Strand.

These nice people, now retired, have always loved the golfing choices here in our area. At Grande Shores in particular they are especially pleased with the professionalism of its staff and the cleanliness of the property.

Prior to life at the beach, Joyce worked for 14 years as a middle school librarian, and her husband John spent 16 years in furniture and appliance sales. They have three children (two young men and one young woman), plus delightful grandchildren, three of whom are in the field of education (one following Joyce's career footsteps in library science, another working as a second-grade teacher, and another working with people who have physical and mental handicaps). Their youngest grandchild, aged 17, stands ready to make his own mark on the world once he completes high school soon.

Grande Shores takes this opportunity to recognize John and Joyce as two of our "favorite" guests for many reasons, not least of which is being so supportive and kind. Hip, Hip, Hooray to John and Joyce!

Relay for Life

Teamed with Horizon, its sister property next door, Grande Shores continues its efforts to raise money for American Cancer Society's Relay for Life through the following fund-raising ways: candy bar sales, foot print sales, plastic cups, T-shirt sales, donations on the Grande Shores website, and dress-down day, with T-shirts and foot prints being their largest money-raisers. Many people have played a number of helpful and energetic roles over the past several months for this campaign, lead by the hard-working guidance of Jennifer Dolan who has been directly involved in this fund raiser. Jennifer is our Relay For Life Chairperson and has done so much of the work.

To date, the Grande Shores / Horizon team has raised $2,840.

Knowing that your dollars go toward research in the fight against cancer, as well as education and treatments, Relay for Life is a great means to show support for all those affected by cancer, whether personally or family and friends. We invite you to stop by the Front Desk while you are here this month and next and ask us about our work with Relay for Life.

For all those who have contributed, we want to express our sincere appreciation again for your generosity and support in reducing and, hopefully someday, stopping this wide-spread disease.

Click here to donate

Grande Shores' Featured Employee - James Perez

At your next visit to Grande Shores, stop by the Pool Bar and admire the art work of our own James Perez, shown here working on a wall mural. Especially when the sun is out, this oceanfront pool area takes on beautiful tones reflecting the same blues and greens of the ocean, and James' wave theme enhances this area fabulously.

James' efforts, not only in this project, but across the board at Grande Shores has been exemplary, and we depend on him for his broad engineering expertise.

Well done, James!

Karaoke Night at Grande Shores

On your next visit to our region, why not stop in on Friday evening for Karaoke Night at Grande Shores. Our winter guests have certainly been enjoying this event over months. They have adopted something of a pattern, wearing red shirts to symbolize support for our troops, also with dinner at The Shoreline Grill.

After dinner, eager Karaoke singers begin their rounds of amateur singing (all in the spirit of friendly competition), "sync'd" to the words on the screen. In this age of reality shows on TV, you might wonder if some of the singers expect a talent scout from American Idol to be lurking in the shadows, but not this audience. Their mission is FUN! Both the singers and the audience get into the acts, even trying out some sharp dance moves to match their tunes.

The next time that you stay at Grande Shores, stop in on Fridays to see if the Karaoke machine is fired up! We'd love to have you!

Featured Recipe - Cheese on the Cob

This easy and delicious recipe from the kitchen of Southern chef Paula Deen takes only 10 minutes to prepare and yields 5 servings.

Before you begin assembling the ingredients, start the grill so that it is hot when you put the cobs on to cook.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 5 ears corn, with their husks and silk removed
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• Chili powder (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

• Prepare the grill.
• Prepare the corn by first brushing a thin layer of mayonnaise on each cob.
• Mix the cheese, chili powder, salt and pepper together in a flat plate or dish. Roll each cob across the cheese mixture. (Sprinkle a dusting of chili power on each cob if more flavor is desired.)
• Wrap each corn cob with foil and place all the wrapped cobs on the grill.
• Turn each cob occasionally during its total cooking time of 10 minutes (time varies, based on kernels beginning to brown).
• Serve warm.

Grande Shores' GREEN Efforts

Grande Shores works in many GREEN ways to save our valuable natural resources along this beautiful South Carolina coast. One of them is a campaign called "Save Our Planet." Guests will begin seeing "Save Our Planet" cards in each bathroom of each property:

To help conserve water and electricity, guests can chose to keep their towels and face clothes beyond their first use. As soon as Housekeeping sees them on the floor instead of hung on towel racks, the items will go to the laundry.

Here are some interesting facts that affect us all, everywhere-from this vacation spot back to our homes:

• Public water is treated so that we can drink it. Yet, less than 1% of this drinkable water is actually used for drinking.
• In our homes, on average each load of laundry uses from 27 to 54 gallons of water.
• 26% of water used inside the home gets flushed down toilets.
• 20% is used in showers and baths.
• 15% of water is used in the kitchen and bathroom faucets.
• 3% of water is used for cleaning.
• 3% for washing dishes.
• 23% for doing laundry.
• 13% for accidental leaks including the outdoor irrigation system in the yard.

With just a few adjustments, indoor water use, both here at Grande Shores and at homes across the nation, can be reduced by almost 30%.

Local Events Calendar

4/1. Lenten Organ Meditation, an event at the First United Methodist Church in Conway, SC. Beginning at 12 noon at 1001 Fifth Avenue in Conway, SC, this event is lead by Billy Fallaw, Music Director. Call 843.488.4251 for details.

4/1-10/31. Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo. Anglers are invited to enter their catches in the tournament held all along the Strand with cash prizes. More information at 843.626.7444.

4/3-4. Prince George Plantation Tour. The majority of the plantations and town houses on this tour are privately owned and lent to the Episcopal Church Women of Prince George. Ticket prices for the tour are $35 for either day (see web site for details). Online at www.pgwinyah.org or call 843.545.8291.

4/4. Celebration of Market Common's First Birthday. This free event includes food, family activities, a fashion show, and plenty of surprises. Join in the fun from 1 pm to 5 pm at Market Common in Myrtle Beach. Call 843.839.3500 for details.

4/4. Park Palooza at Myrtle Beach State Park. Outdoor family activities and programs running from 10 am to 3 pm. Park location 3 miles south of Myrtle Beach off Highway 17. Meet at Shelter B at the park. For more information see website www.myrtlebeachsp.com or call 866.224.9339.

4/5. Vespers for the Passion of Our Lord, an event with the Chancel Choir of the Long Bay Symphony. Held at the First United Methodist Church (1001 5th Avenue) in Conway, SC, starting at 5 pm. For more information, 843.488.4251.

4/5. Eddie Miles' Salute to Elvis at the Alabama Theatre in North Myrtle Beach. This live performance begins at 7 pm. Call 800.342.2262 or see www.alabama-theatre.com for more information.

4/6. American Heart Association Charity Golf Tournament. This once-in-a-lifetime event is being hosted at the exclusive Reserve Golf Club in North Litchfield, SC. Open to the public, entry is $80 for age 18 and up. Sign your golf team up with Christie Holland at 843.333.7066. Includes a raffle, chances to win prizes, and an opportunity to benefit a great cause.

4/10. Killswitch Engage with Chimaira and Lacuna Coil. This popular heavy-metal music group is coming to the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach. See this live performance of "KEC" starting at 7 pm. See the group's web site at www.killswitchengage.com to sign up for their "meet and greet" at the concert. For more details, call House of Blues at 843.272.000.

4/9-11. The Palmetto Golf Championship. The Palmetto High School Golf Championship. 800.833.8798 (press option 7) or email to palmetto@golfholiday.com. This premier event hosts 150 high school golf teams and includes a fall championship, as well (dates as yet undetermined). If not cheering on a team, come watch future PGA players in the making!

4/10. Spring Fling at the First Baptist Church of Myrtle Beach. Starting at 10 am, this family-oriented event includes inflatables for the children, an Easter-egg hunt, and much more. Held at 500 Fourth Ave. North, Myrtle Beach, SC, 29577. Call 843.448.3155 for more details.

4/13. Hootie and the Blowfish Monday-After-Masters Golf Tournament. Held at The Dye Club at Barefoot in North Myrtle Beach, this fund-raiser draws celebrities from near and far, both in the world of golf and otherwise. See more information at www.HootieGolf.com.

4/17-26. SOS Spring Safari. This is the first major outing of summer for the shag dancing enthusiasts, and it is held in North Myrtle Beach. Enjoy 10 days of this big party, plus smaller member-club parties for the Association of Carolina Shag Clubs. For more information, see the web site at www.shagdance.com.

4/18. George Jones at the Alabama Theatre in North Myrtle Beach. Don't miss this live performance by one of country music's greats. A legend in his own right, George Jones begins his show at 7 pm. Call 800.342.2262 or see www.alabama-theatre.com for more information.

4/18. Blues and Jazz Festival at La Belle Amie Vineyards in North Myrtle Beach. 843.399.WINE (9463) or send an email to info@labelleamie.com. Plenty of food, live music, art, wine, and fun. Plenty of opportunities for memorable fun! Bring your own outdoor chair and stay awhile.

4/18. Jewelry Art in the Park. Artists with specialty in necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings bring their award-winning wears for sale out-of-doors at Market Common from 12 noon to 6 pm. For more information, call the Waccamaw Art and Craft Guild at 843.448.7690.

4/18. Oak Island Lighthouse, NC, Run-Walk. A leisurely hour's drive north leads you to Oak Island for this relaxing and enjoyable event. See the lighthouse, visit the Intracoastal Waterway up close, use the many public oceanfront access points, and savor life on an island. Sponsored by the Southport Chamber of Commerce, this event begins at 8:30 am and includes 10K and 5K runs. Call 800.457.6964 for more information or see "events" at www.southport-oakisland.com.

4/24. John Brown Big Band. Located only an hour's drive north of Myrtle Beach, the Brunswick County Community College's Williamson Auditorium is the site of this lively evening of big-band jazz. Performance starts at 7:30 pm. Tickets on sale at 800.754.1050, Ext.416, or www.bccowa.com/contact.html.

4/25. SOS Spring Safari Parade. All eyes turn to Main Street in North Myrtle Beach where excitement fills the air and SOS. dancers and floats fill the street. Be a part of all the fun and excitement generated by The Association of Carolina Shag Clubs (ACSC).

4/25. Art in the Park. The 37th annual juried art show presented by a local art guild in Chapin Park. From 10 am to 4 pm, this outdoor show includes food vendors and other interesting sights. For more information, call 843.448.7690 or see www.wacg.org.

4/25. First Annual Forget-Me-Not Ball Benefiting the Alzheimer's Association in the Grande Strand. Fine food, beverages, live entertainment by the Arlin Strader Band, and a silent fund-raiser auction. The event occurs at 6:30 pm in Myrtle Beach at the Marina Inn in Grande Dunes. More information at 800.860.1444 or by email at cameron.renwick@alz.org.

I would just like to write a few kinds words to your organization in hopes the comments will be read to your management and be passed along to Wendy. My wife and I were returning to the Atlanta area after visiting our Navy son who is stationed in Norfolk, VA. We stopped at the South Carolina Visitors Center and spoke to the receptionist about hotel rates in the Myrtle Beach Area. She informed us the area was providing "off season rates" and provided us with contact/reservation information for the Grande Shores Ocean Resort on 77th Street in Myrtle Beach. We then contacted the operator and made a reservation. Upon arrival to the resort on 23 Feb 09, I was greeted by Wendy, the Resort Receptionist and was quickly checked in with no problems. Wendy had recommended room 608, so we left the lobby and proceeded to our room. When we opened the door my wife and I loved the room and the view. We were only scheduled to stay one night but due to the great price, view, and resort accommodations, I called Wendy back and booked a second night. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed the time we stayed at your resort. We even purchased swim suits so we could enjoy the indoor pool and jacuzzi. Again, all your staff made our stay very enjoyable and comfortable. I will recommend your resort to my friends and family if they ever are in the Myrtle Beach Area. Please make sure this word of thanks is distributed to Wendy; she is after all the first person your guests are greeted by, and she is an asset to your organization.
Email to Grande Shores from Mr. and Mrs. D. Bailey, Jr., Georgia, 02-28-09

Hi! My husband and I come to Myrtle Beach almost every August. We LOVE it! We've stayed at Grande Shores for the last four or five times we've been to Myrtle Beach. We have stayed in rooms and in condos at Grande Shores and have always had a great experience. The rooms are very nice and the three bedroom condo was Great! The resort is clean and the amenities are wonderful. The staff has always been friendly and helpful. We are already planning our trip this year and think our Son and his Bride will go with us in August 2009. They will be spending their 1st anniversary at Grande Shores! We will be calling soon to make our reservation. See You in August!!!
Email in response to newsletter, L Phillips, 02-26-09

We stayed at the Grand Shores and as usual our room was spotless and the most courteous/friendless staff on the strand.
Email in response to newsletter, C Burt, 01-23-09

I am responding to your ezine The Grande Times survey request. I LOVE your newsletter. I stayed twice - 2004 and 2005, in room #1111 at the Grande Shores Resort, and both times it was absolutely perfect! The resort is spotless, the customer care and resort staff is exceptional, bar none; my room with a mini patio was impeccable, and the grilled food and drinks served near the ground-level pool, oh, still makes my mouth water! Even the parking garage is a wonderful attribute! I can truly think of nothing displeasing when I think of Grande Shores. Each day of both vacations I made use of your Shoreline restaurant for either breakfast or supper, but ALWAYS had my poolside grilled lunches! There was absolutely no need for me to go any further than the resort grounds to the beach. From beach to resort, from resort to beach and back again, now that's my idea of a vacation, and my idea of living! My first visit to Grande Shores was a belated honeymoon, as I had never seen the ocean before (I'm from Wisconsin). I thought it was so magical that the following year I just had to bring my son and his girlfriend to see the ocean and to experience what Grande Shores has to offer. Your newsletter is a wonderful reminder and a walk down memory lane for me. And I always check out the webcam! My goal is to always come back. I would leave right this minute without packing a single item if I could afford the travel expenses. Thank you for all the memories! Wishing Grande Shores a prosperous and successful 2009, and of course, I remain a very satisfied past patron and future vacationer!
Email in response to newsletter, C Wirth, 01-22-09

Fun Facts

At least 75% of people who read this section of the newsletter will try to lick their elbow!

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Welcoming Groups to Grande Shores

Grande Shores looks forward to greeting the guests coming in groups. People on tours, family reunions, military units, school bands or sports teams, and the many other people on the move bring an excitement and their own special brand of uniqueness through out doors that adds to our joy of working with people.

Here are the groups that stopped by recently:

• Babe Ruth Baseball
• Goose Creek Soccer - YMCA
• Cornerstone Worship Center
• The James Party
• Woodside Church
• Higher Ground Christian Cheer
• McCreary High School Cheerleaders
• McCreary Middle School Cheerleaders
• Parab Wedding Guests

Thank you to each one, and we look forward to seeing you here again at the beach!