Issue 56, July 10, 1998
Myrtle Beach is hot right now, in more ways then one. In addition to some warmer than average, mid 90's temperatures, the recent wildfires in Florida have caused some vacationers to switch their plans to Myrtle Beach. This is the busiest time of the year anyway, so it is always a good idea to have reservations in advance. For dining out, try going early (5:00) or late.
I can personally recommend a couple of fairly new restaurants on the strand. Murrells Inlet is the home of Bovine's Wood Fired Specialties, featuring steaks, ribs, seafood, and Cajun fare. Open for supper only; call 843-651-2888. The Kansas Steakhouse and Saloon, at 512 South King's Highway (central Myrtle Beach), has a large salad bar and excellent steaks.
The newer of the 2 Damon's Ribs restaurants, on the oceanfront in southern Myrtle Beach, burned down in a spectacular fire, possibly from an electrical problem. The other Damon's at Barefoot Landing is still open.
Pizazz, a variety show featuring Barry Williams (of 'Brady Bunch' fame) and Debby Boone, is playing through early September at the Palace Theater. Five beautiful rare big cats are also showcased. Call the theater for showtimes and dates at 800-905-4228 or 843-448-0588.
Art in the Park, held at Chapin Park at 16th Ave. N., will be held July 11-12 and Oct. 17-18 this year. Call 843-249-4937.
The large NASCAR Speedpark, on US 17 Bypass next to the NASCAR Cafe and Broadway at the Beach, has opened. Besides 7 racing tracks, there are 2 miniature golf courses, an arcade, and a restaurant. Open 10 a.m. to midnight daily, free admission. The park plans to operate on a year-round basis.
Winners of the beauty pageants this year are Tosca Norman, who is Miss Sun Fun, and Caroline Brigman, Miss Bikini Wahine.
A new permanent addition to the House of Blues show schedule is 'Blues Train', which will explore how the blues influenced rock and roll and country music. With admission you also get a southern buffet. It will generally be performed Thursday through Sunday evenings at 6:30, but there may be changes to this schedule, so call 843-272-3000 to confirm. $29 for adults, discounts for children.
Remember Chilaca Grille, which used to be on US 17 Bypass near Broadway at the Beach? It was converted into a Fiesta del Burro Loco within the last year. Chilaca's will be reopening in Murrells Inlet on US 17 Bypass, where Rosa Linda's used to be. Both Chilaca's and Fiesta del Burro Loco are excellent.
The Library, one of the beach's most upscale restaurants, wants everyone to know it dropped its coat and tie requirement some years ago. 'Neat and casual' is now fine. Located at 1212 US 17 Business in the heart of Myrtle Beach. Call 843-448-4527.
Burroughs and Chapin is planning to double the size of the Myrtle Waves water park and add major new attractions. Included will be a 70 foot tall flume raft ride, a pool with 4-8 feet waves suitable for surfing, and a swim up bar. The project will take 4 years to complete.
Alabama, the country music supergroup with longtime connections to Myrtle Beach, has opened a nightclub in the Celebrity Square portion of Broadway at the Beach. Alabama Nitelife will have an in-house band and occasionally feature visiting major artists. The group is still opening the larger Alabama Grill restaurant later this year. Call 843-916-9115.
The Carolina Bays Parkway, the north - south freeway to run west of the Intracoastal, is closer to reality. The plans have been approved and land purchases should begin soon, with construction starting in 2000 and at least part of it open by 2002. First to open will be from S.C. 9 to U.S. 501, covering the North Myrtle Beach area that currently has no bypass. The rest of the freeway will take it to Surfside. Intersections will be at U.S. 501, S.C. 544, central North Myrtle Beach and northern Myrtle Beach.
Hurricane season has begun. El Nino, responsible for an extremely quiet 1997, has dissipated. Forecasters seem unsure what will happen this year.
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