October 2008                                                                                                                              Volume 1, Issue 3

So you think you might have waited too long for your 2008 summer vacation? Think you missed your opportunity to lie on the beach and do absolutely nothing? Not to worry. Fall has the ingredients for a perfect time to do nothing, and you have a wide selection of amenities and adventures here on the Grand Strand in case you decide to do … something!

Autumn days in Myrtle Beach are an abundance of clear blue skies and soft colors from the sun, just the right environment for relaxing. The Grand Strand buzzes with golf tee times, plus live theater, musical concerts, amusement and theme parks, other sports, and many action-packed adventures on land and on water.

Over the past month, many people have visited the Grand Strand to enjoy our fall events and activities: the Little River Shrimp Festival on October 11th and 12th, the North Carolina Oyster Festival on the 18th and 19th, the Bridal Faire on October 26th, and many others (see more events later in this newsletter). So, give us a call or link online to reserve accommodations for your 2008 vacation during the remainder of October, at Thanksgiving, or any other time. We would be delighted to help you arrange an event or activity in your life, no matter what time of year!

Your friends at Prince Resort!


Myrtle Beach Fall Biker Rally at Prince Resort

"I have lawn mowers louder than my bike," stated Gosia Leszczynska of Sosnowiec, Poland, when asked about the recent changes to the Myrtle Beach ordinances regarding bikers. She was just returning from a 7,000-mile cross-country bike trip before coming to the Fall Pilgrimage and sympathized with bikers encountering sound-level check points around the City of Myrtle Beach. Gosia and her biker friends enjoyed Barragan's Harley in Murrells Inlet, but many other bikers toured the Strand, some taking the route along SC-31 to North Myrtle Beach where Prince Resort is located. The bikers staying here enjoyed their beachside location, as well as the rally.

Though rally organizers admitted that the number of bikers and vendors decreased from the last year's rally, this year was a success in its own right because of the fun! Without any major problems, the rally featured entertaining events each day, and the weather around the Grand Strand remained in the comfortable 70's and 80's with low humidity.

"I'll still come to Myrtle Beach no matter what they do," said Marc Rogers from his bike, when asked about the changes in the new city laws in Myrtle Beach. From Raleigh, NC, he and his wife Sharon dressed in jeans and black leather and appeared relaxed on their Harley. "I'm happy to be here, and I don't want to get involved in the politics of the bike festivals," said another biker Stephanie Mann of North Myrtle Beach on her 2008 Big Bear orange motorcycle. To quash any misunderstanding, City officials issued another statement identifying the purpose of the new laws - crowd control, especially in the spring.


Cute Couple at The Cherry Grove Pier

Once upon a time, on a beautiful beach overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, located in the middle of the eastern U. S. coastline, a cute couple named Elisabeth and J. P. visited Prince Resort with some of their closest friends on a little September weekend vacation. Around 9 pm on September 19th, they all walked out to The Cherry Grove Fishing Pier to enjoy the view. The guys suggested going fishing right there and then.

Little did she know, though, that the fishing suggestion was a really a strategy to maneuver the group to a spot on the pier where everyone could witness a special event. As they reached the end of the pier, Elisabeth looked for seating to watch what she thought would be the guys' fishing. She walked upstairs to the beautifully lighted observation deck and took a seat. Not far behind, J. P. followed and sat down beside her. "How much do you love me?" he asked. She described the length of the pier and added width to emphasize just how much, and then she asked, "So, how much do you love me?" At that point, the moment became etched in both Elisabeth's and J. P.'s memories, as well as those of their friends nearby. In the spirit of traditional romance, J. P. dropped to one knee and replied, "Enough to ask you to marry me."

So, instead of fish on a line, Elisabeth "got" her man. This photo captures their engagement story, preserved in memories at The Cherry Grove Fishing Pier. When Elisabeth sent the photo, she added in her email that she caught the best "fish" in the sea, and no doubt that J. P. feels the same way! (Note the sign in the background of the photo.)

Of course, their story continues as a "happily ever after," but this tender tale certainly sets the stage for their charming wedding.


Thanksgiving at Prince Resort

This year, when you make your Thanksgiving plans, consider the affordable idea of spending the holiday at the beach. You can save money by letting us do the cooking for you, and at the same time you can relax and enjoy your friends and family. The chef at 3500 at the Prince has planned a fabulous traditional feast, sure to meet the expectations of the most exacting guests!

Still skeptical about how you can save money by spending it at a luxury resort? In a word, "specials." Take advantage of our Thanksgiving "special" price, allowing Prince Resort to do the cooking and clean-up, and you will find your entire holiday to be less expensive than eating at home. One key reason is that the cost of buying and preparing food at home rose more than did the cost to eat out, a difference of 3.2%, according to the latest consumer price index for the southern U.S. With less effort and time spent on your part, you have more time to do what you want. So, it just makes sense to spend such a major event as Thanksgiving at Prince Resort where you can actually lounge around the beach, go fishing, take in some golf games, all sorts of fun!


New Year's Festivities at Prince Resort

Before this holiday season arrives, make a pre-New Year's resolution to experience live music and lots of fun!

Here in at the Prince Resort in North Myrtle Beach, you can party with us at 3500 at the Prince, stroll along the Pier or barefoot on the beach, enjoy breakfast the next morning.

Our New Year's are usually mild in climate and fun in spirit! Also, Prince is close to lots of things to do by day and by night. So, book your reservation now. Word is out that this will be THE place to be for New Year's, 2009!


Featured Recipe

Enjoy this harvest treat! Serves 12.

Pumpkin Roll
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Cake Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup cake flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 6 large eggs, separated
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup golden brown sugar, packed
  • 2/3 cup canned pumpkin, packed
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • Powdered sugar

Filling Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
  • 2 tablespoons dark rum
  • 1 cup whipping cream, chilled
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 6 tablespoons plus 1/2 cup English toffee pieces for garnish
  • Additional powdered sugar, for garnish
  • 1 1/2 cups purchased caramel sauce, warmed for garnish.

Directions

For the cake: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Line a 15 by 10 by 1-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray the parchment with nonstick cooking spray. Sift the flour, cinnamon, ginger, and allspice into a small bowl. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until very thick. Add the pumpkin to the egg mixture and combine at a low speed until incorporated. Add the dry ingredients and beat at a low speed until mixed. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and salt until stiff but not dry. Fold into the cake batter, stirring with a spatula, until most of the white streaks are gone.

Spread the batter onto a baking sheet and smooth out. Transfer baking sheet to the oven and bake until a tester comes out clean, about 15 to 18 minutes. While the cake is hot, dust generously with powdered sugar. Loosen the edges and turn the cake out onto a kitchen towel. Fold the towel over the edge of the cake and roll up. Cool completely, edge down, for 1 hour in the refrigerator.

For the filling: Soften the gelatin in the rum. Stir over low heat until the gelatin dissolves. Cool. Beat the chilled whipping cream and powdered sugar in a large bowl until peaks form. Fold in the gelatin and 6 tablespoons English toffee pieces.

To assemble, unroll the cake and sprinkle with 4 tablespoons of English toffee pieces. Spread the filling over the toffee. Start at 1 long side of the cake roll and, using the towel as an aid, roll up the cake to encase the filling. Place the cake, seam side down, on a platter.

Trim the ends of the cake at a slight diagonal. Dust the cake with powdered sugar. Spoon some warm caramel sauce and the remaining toffee chips over the top of the cake. To serve, use a serrated knife to cut the cake crosswise into 1-inch thick slices. Drizzle more sauce on each slice and serve.


Employee Spotlight

The Director of Engineering at Prince Resort is Karl ("J. R.") Bessant who began work with the company 10 years ago as a room technician. He feels that his strong background in project management has helped him grow with the organization. As Director, he is responsible for the maintenance of the physical building structure including carpentry, all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC systems and related equipment. One of his many contributions in this position has been in organizational development, overhauling the Engineering Department into a highly efficient team (that is, the shop, inventory, quality control, compliance, and billing).

Constantly on the go, he says his daily work routine includes budgeting, contract and bid negotiations, running the department maintenance crew, and coordinating many other tasks, as well as learning new skills such as information technology. "My goal is to make Prince Resort Number 1," stated J.R. on his way out the door to check on something at Prince.

Originally from Loris, South Carolina, J. R. follows the events of NASCAR in his spare time. His primary joy, however, is spending time with his son and sharing NASCAR activities with him.


Fishing Contest Winners at The Cherry Grove Pier at Prince Resort

Many people have enjoyed the 55th Annual Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo™ Competition this year, running from April 1st to the end of October. The event has been sponsored by the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. With over $17,000 in prizes, The Cherry Grove Pier has seen novices to very experienced anglers out here trying their luck. This 2008 Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo has included catches from pier, surf, inlet or deep sea.

Most recently, the fall King Mackerel Tournament, held September 19-21, saw winners coming from The Cherry Grove Pier, that is, only this pier. This had something to do with where the king mackerel were running which seemed to be only at this end of the Grand Strand. The following people won cash prizes:

  • First Place: Shane Efird, 22 lbs. 10 oz. from Monroe, NC
  • Second Place: Ann Ball, 22 lbs. 7 oz. from Little River, SC
  • Third Place: Steve Efird, 21 lbs. 14 oz. from Monroe, NC
  • Fourth Place: Ed Powers, 19 lbs. 4 oz. from Myrtle Beach, SC
  • Fifth Place: Jerry Mitchell, 16 lbs. 13 oz. from Douglasville, GA

    The area's fishing rodeo concludes with the October 25th Take-a-Kid-Fishing Tournament to promote young anglers from Cherry Grove to Garden City. The event is limited to the Grand Strand fishing piers that are the official weigh stations for the rodeo.


    Local Events Calendar

    11/1 to 12/31 South's Grandest Christmas Show at the Alabama Theatre. Presented six nights a week with selected "kid friendly" matinees. For more information, 800.342.2262 or www.alabama-theatre.com.

    11/1 to 12/31 Carolina Opry's Christmas Special Presented by Calvin Gilmore. A yuletide experience for the whole family, "kid friendly." For more information, 800.843.6779 or ww.TheCarolinaOpry.com.

    11/1-2 16th Annual Cultural Arts Festival and Pow Wow by the Waccamaw Indian People. Event at 10 am, Waccamaw Tribal Grounds (591 Bluewater Road, Aynor, SC 29511). Information at 843.358.6877 or www.waccamaw.us.

    11/7. American Advertising Federation-Coastal Carolinas (AAF-CC, formerly CAMP). 3rd Annual Band-Aid Fundraiser at Dick's Last Resort in Barefoot Landing. Begins at 6:00 pm with live music by Sick Stooges, buffet, beverages and entertainment. Proceeds benefit the Street Reach Mission and AAF-CC's Scholarship Funds. $30. More information at 843.443.2467.

    11/7-8. Chick-Fil-A's Second Annual Charity Softball Tournament. Introduces for the first time in Myrtle Beach the Chicago 16 style softball tournament. Have some fun at baseball complex The Ripken Experience. For more information, 843.655.9382.

    11/7-9 Dog Agility Trials. Canine athletes compete in obstacle course hurdles, Murrell's Inlet (A Dog's Way Inn, 761 Pendergrass Avenue). Information at 843.357.4545 or www.ADogsWayInn.com.

    11/9 Musical Awards, Carolina Beach Music (CBMA), Alabama Theatre, North Myrtle Beach. Festival's program starts at 3 pm honoring winners, categories, and pioneers of the music genre of beach music. Fun, clean-cut music with diverse harmonious style. Ticket information at www.cammy.org.

    11/8 St. Nicholas Festival. Event features arts, crafts, and seasonal themes. A great start to your holiday shopping. On site at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Conway. Information at 843.248.2273 or www.conwayscchamber.com

    11/9 Half Marathon-USS North Carolina Battleship. Race location in Wilmington, NC, the USS North Carolina Battleship starting with registration at 8 am. Information from Ed Fore at 910.398.5539, email edfore7628@bellsouth.net or www.battleshiphalfmarathon.active.com/site3.aspx.

    11/13-15 The 2nd Annual Sara's Beach Walk. Hard Rock Park, 45-mile walk along Grand Strand beaches over 3 days. Benefits children on behalf of the Sara Goodwin Memorial Foundation. Less for endurance, more for fun for all capabilities. Prizes awarded. Information at www.sarasbeachwalk.com or 866.9MB.WALK.

    11/13-16. The 27th Annual Dickens Christmas Show and Festival. Myrtle Beach Convention Center from 9am-6pm, $8 admission. Victorian marketplace setting, kid-friendly, with period costumes, special events, fine arts and crafts, food, gifts, Christmas theme, toys, and much more. Information at www.dickenschristmasshow.com or 843.448.9483.

    11/15. Long Bay Symphony 5th Annual Guild Fashion Show and Silent Auction. Organized by the Long Bay Symphony Guild. Held at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, to benefit the LBS and its youth programs. $35 includes live entertainment, raffles and silent auction. Fashions by Dillards of Coastal Grand Mall. More information at 843.448.8379.

    11/14-16. World Checkers Open. Pursuits America presents a tournament opportunity for the whole family to play checkers, socialize, and compete for prizes. Held at the beautiful Kingston Plantation in the Myrtle Beach Hilton. For more information 843.902.8630 or www.WorldSeriesOfGames.net.

    11/27-29. Annual South Carolina State Bluegrass Festival. Myrtle Beach Convention Center from noon to close. Music and cultural event with a wide array of music from blue grass to acoustic instruments, a showcase of jam-based music, new age flavors, homage to older styles, and bluesy sounds. Information through 843.448.7166.

    11/20 The Grand Strand Strutters' Square Dancing Event. From 7 to 9 PM in a friendly club atmosphere. (Class for new dancers is from 6 to 7pm.). Grand Strand Senior Center (1268 21st Ave N., Myrtle Beach). More information at 843.497.0470 or 843.650.2043.

    11/29. The 23rd Annual Intracoastal Christmas Regatta. Beginning with the line-up at 4 pm under swing bridge in NMB, moving to Little River. Competition, fun, seasonal sounds and sights. Benefits children in Horry County and NMB Humane Society. Information at 843.249.8888 or www.ChristmasRegatta.com.

  • Guest Comments

    I read the previous reviews and was skeptical. I was given a very good rate, and decided to go on with our trip. It was a very good choice. The people at the front desk were very friendly and helpful. They made sure that we got checked in and then called the next day to make sure everything was ok. The halls were very clean, along with the elevators and the room. I don't have any negative things to say about the Prince Resort. We even stayed another night. All in all it was excellent. We have already planned a trip for next year. We also dealt with Kimberly and Savannah. Thanks, ladies, for making our stay the best. The beds were not the best in the world, but they are better than most hotel beds. The parking garage does need to be bigger, but it works. Connie72461 in Texas, October 1st, 2008 From a Report on TripAdvisor

    I was a little worried about staying here after reading some of the negative reviews, but all my worried were put to rest when I got there. I had no problems at all. We stayed in a 2-bedroom condo in the first building. The rooms were very clean, the beds were comfortable (I guess everyone's preferences are different when it comes to beds) the service was great, and the pools and beach were very clean. We originally planned on staying 5 nights, but we were having such a great time we decided to stay and extra day and had no problems booking it. The only thing I can think of to complain about was having to cross the street to get to the parking garage, a very miner problem. P_oravac in Texas, September 29, 2008 From a Report on TripAdvisor

    This was our 6th stay at "The Prince" since they opened in January of 2007. It was great in every respect. We were concerned when we read some of the negative reviews and experienced none of them:

    • service super
    • beds perfectly comfortable
    • elevators clean
    • hallways clean
    • staff friendly, professional (we dealt with Kimberly and Nicole)
    • any needs were immediately addressed.

    We've stayed in both towers, but prefer tower #1, the direct oceanfront one. And the rate for 9/22-9/25 was unbeatable, too. BeachfanConcord_NC in Concord, NC, September 25th, 2008 From a Report on TripAdvisor


    Fun Facts

  • A fishing license is not required to fish from the Cherry Grove Pier with your admission.

  • Fishing around the Cherry Grove pier pilings can often yield pleasant surprises for novices, as well as experts.

  • When fishing from the Cherry Grove Pier, use live bait to increase your chances of catching something. Type of bait depends on what you hope to catch.

  • If possible, fish at night during an incoming tide, especially high tide (watch the current tide tables for your area).

  • The Cherry Grove Pier is a good place to fish for bluefish (try the beach for an even better chance, and use cut bait). At the pier use fiddler crabs for bait.

  • If you are looking for spot-tail bass, your chances to catch them are actually better on the ICW, in creek mouths, and in the upper creeks.

  • In the cooler weather, you have an excellent chance to catch flounder. Use mud minnows as bait.

  • Spanish mackerel, black drum, and sheep head are also possible to catch on the pier. Use sand fleas and fiddler crabs as bait.

  • A tip for finding the ideal fishing spot is to ask the experts, also to look for feeding shore birds.

  • Some artificial lures have odd names such as Gotcha Plugs and Hopkins Spoons. They have treble hooks and are reported to catch fish.

  • Sunrise and sunset increase fish feeding activity. Day and night feeders become even more active when light changes such as moon and tide, so go dawn or dusk.

  • Let your bait drift with the tide, or fish on the bottom. Marine life attached to the pier's pilings supplies food for fish, so they naturally tend to gather around the pier.

  • "Regulars" tend to fish inshore, and newcomers fish from the end of the pier. Try to fish behind the surf line or in it where the fishing is better.

  • The second-best fishing spot on the pier is halfway to the end. Multi-hook riggings are usually best to use, though a single hook will work. Use live bait, and try different depths to place your bait. Good luck!


    Groups

    Enjoy your group even more when they come together in a beach setting.

    • Life Changing Ministries
    • Faucett / Lutterloh Wedding
    • Dobbin Family Reunion
    • Benchmark Management
    • East Coast Hospitality WJHS 50th High School Reunion
    • Pontiac Oakland Club International
    • Myrtle Grove First Born Church
    • Amoco Retiree Group
    • Porter Family Reunion
    • Raleigh Wake NCCU Alumni
    • Batchelor Wedding
    • Vinson Family Reunion
    • Waterdog Promotions
    • Prayer & Deliverance Ministries
    • World Wide Deliverance

    If your group is looking for somewhere to meet this fall, consider Prince!