Myrtle Beach area News

Myrtle Beach Area Chamber Recognizes Its Volunteers at Annual Celebration

The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce will host its volunteer appreciation reception 5:30-8 p.m. Sept. 30 at the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes. The cocktail reception will be held 5:30-7 p.m. with the awards presentation 7-8 p.m. This is an invitation-only event. More than 1,000 volunteers have been invited to attend.

The chamber’s success includes the support of the numerous committee members and other countless volunteers that selflessly contribute their time and energy each year. The Republican and Democratic presidential primary debates in January are a prime example of the accomplishments that chamber volunteers afford the organization.

“This is the one opportunity each year when the chamber can show our utmost appreciation for the myriad of volunteers that help make our organization continue to raise the bar,” said Brad Dean, MBACC president and CEO. “Whether it’s in our boardroom each month or at the Beach, Boogie & BBQ Festival, their sacrifices don’t go unnoticed.”

During the celebration, a volunteer of the year will be recognized for her time, talent and energy in helping the MBACC. Two finalists are being honored for 2008: Shannon Camp of The Jackson Companies and Dr. Brooke Pond of Discover Chiropractic. Nominations were solicited on the chamber’s Web site.

The event will also pay tribute to Steve Chapman, 2007-08 chamber board chairman and managing partner of Island Vista. “Serving as board chairman must be a personal passion,” said Brant Branham, 2008-09 board chairman and consultant with E. F. Hucks & Associates Inc. “The chairman has to be committed to advancing the business community, promoting the Myrtle Beach area as a premier destination, and bettering the Grand Strand. Steve poured his heart and soul into his service as chairman, and it will be a privilege and a pleasure to honor him.”