On Saturday, April 25th, www.beachmusic45.com presented an SOS event at Avista Resort called "Sounds of Spring," hosted by Craig Fleming and Neal "Soul Dog" Furr. SOS'ers who came here from all across the country to enjoy "SOS Spring Safari" sat around the pool listening to an afternoon of live bands showcasing beach music. Some even "grooved" on out to the shoreline for even better dancing. This event occurred only at Avista and kept the SOS beat going all afternoon, noon to 7 pm, with tunes from the Royal Scotsman Band, The Out-of-Towners Band, the Big Time Party Band, and The Fabulous Hot Dog Daddy-O's, plus many special guest artists. SOS'ers got up and danced around the pool, danced in the tubes around the lazy river, and danced in the grassy areas near the beach boardwalk.

Did you have a chance to get into the mood of beach music during SOS week, to sit leisurely by Avista's pool sipping one of the resort's frozen concoctions while you wiled away the afternoon in the sunshine? We hope so.

From the point at which March went out "like a lion," we at Avista have enjoyed watching the gradual transformation of the landscape from winter's somber tones to the grandeur that is spring. Yes, we have experienced occasional showers, much needed to produce our colorful flowers, sea oats, and tree leaves that we enjoy seeing over the summer.

Unquestionably, the most noteworthy sign of spring is the celebration of , and nothing says spring at the beach as much as our amazing views of the ocean, gently warming weather, and brightly colored blossoms. Just on cue, all of this came together for a fabulous Easter weekend!

The chef and his staff outdid themselves with a delicious array of tastes - traditional dishes such as Eggs Benedict, shrimp and grits, Southern-style biscuits and gravy, and country ham, to name only a few items. Of course, the time-honored baked ham and many side dishes also appeared.

Children of all ages not only enjoyed Avista's Easter events during the weekend, also the diverse options around the North Myrtle Beach area such as McLean Park's Easter egg hunt and Barefoot Landing's magic show and soap-bubble blast. With so many things to see and do around here, and only one weekend, it was a wonder that any time at all remained for relaxing, but by the number of people out there on the beach, many people found the time.

Now that spring is sliding on by us, think about your own summer plans. If your vacation itinerary remains elusive, this particular year teams with discount opportunities. Check with the Avista web site to see our specials for a money-saving beach vacation. We can help make your summer vacation happen! So, even though the Easter bunny has left the building, let the magic of summer come your way.

With more than 4,900 relays occurring at organizations throughout the country and across 19 nations, Relay for Life is making a global impact this year in the fight against cancer. One word sums up why - teamwork. Across the globe, millions of people have made a difference. Here at Avista, the power of collaboration is evident, too. The joint efforts of our staff volunteers have been instrumental in raising money through bake sales, car washes, a raffle for a hand-made quilt, book sales, Easter pictures with E. Bunny, an Easter coloring competition, monies raised through "dress-down" Fridays, a chicken "bog" lunch sale, plus collecting donations.

Some of the lead energizers here at Avista include Marvis Livingston, Ashley Santana, and everyone who works at the Front Desk position. Together they have enthusiastically promoted the Relay cause at the busiest section of the resort.

The Reservations staff has also been on the forefront of efforts on behalf of Relay over the past several months. From that group, Nikki Allman has been instrumental in coordinating the team's creative efforts, keeping the momentum rolling. We congratulate each of these ladies and the entire Avista team for the above-work-hours efforts, enthusiastic spirits, and tireless energies on behalf of this worthy cause.

On April 24th Avista's Relay volunteers went to the The Ripken Experience for a non-stop walk to raise funds for cancer awareness. We hope, if you were in town, that you were able to join us to support the team. In August, the team puts its energies into a Relay for Life golf tournament; see our next month's article about Relay for Life.

Well done, team!

The 2009 Mayfest on Main Street is coming up on the calendar! What a fabulous way to get together with old friends and make new ones. With your base as the Avista Resort with its wonderful amenities, you can wander over to Mayfest on foot any time during May 9th , 9 am to 9 pm! Whether you and your group decide to have an all-day chat listening to the background of live music or just hang out there for several hours of easy listening before exploring the other parts of the town, you will find Mayfest laid-back, relaxing, and congenial!

No matter what their ages, bring the family to hear these incredible musicians, plus you'll find lots of other action going on, from the children's play area to food vendors to a craft fair - something for everyone. This event is a family friendly occasion and has always been a strong magnet for anyone interested in live music and fun. In fact, people have been known to come from far distances just for this show.

Mayfest takes place every year at what the locals call "The Horseshoe," a semi-circular spot tucked up against the ocean at the end of Main Street. Headlines this year are power-house talents known around here as "The Legends of Surf Music"

• Al Jardine (original founding member of "The Beach Boys"),
• Dean Torrence (original member of "Jan and Dean"),
• David Marks (one of the original members of "The Beach Boys")

Co-stars include the following bands

• "Mother's Finest,"
• "The Chairmen of the Board," and
• "Coco Loco Party Band."

We hope that you can come on down and enjoy the fun. You can even dance right there in the street!

Avista Resort looks forward to service families joining us for Military Appreciation Days, May 28-30, 2009. Though the event itself is held in Myrtle Beach, the entire Grand Strand is celebrating all active and retired military from all branches of the service with promotions, discounts, and festive activities.

During this celebration event to say "thank you," more than two dozen military bases will be represented, along with retired military personnel from the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base itself and beyond.

If you would like more information about Avista Resort's military discount, call .

For more information about this grand event sponsored, in part, by the City of Myrtle Beach, go to www.militaryappreciationdays.com/welcome.html.

Preparation time for this recipe is 30 minutes, and cooking time is 2 hours. You will not taste Coca-Cola in the final dish, but the gravy is exquisite. The yield is 6-8 servings.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 (3 to 4 pounds) beef 7-bone roast
• Kosher salt and pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 pound baby red (creamer) potatoes, scrubbed, skins on
• 8 ounces button mushrooms, cleaned
• 1/2 pound peeled baby carrots
• 1 onion, very thinly sliced
• 1 cup Coca-Cola or other cola (not diet) at room temperature
• 1 cup tomato sauce (canned or homemade)
• 1 packet dry onion soup mix
• 1 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
• 2 tsp dried oregano, crushed
• 1 tsp garlic powder

DIRECTIONS:

• Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with foil.
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
• Sprinkle roast liberally with salt and pepper. Heat a heavy-duty skillet until very hot, adding olive oil, to quickly sear the 7-bone roast on both sides.
• Place seared roast in baking pan. Surround with potatoes, mushrooms, and carrots in an even layer. Spread sliced onions evenly over the top of the meat and vegetables.
• Mix cola, tomato sauce, onion soup mix, paprika, oregano, and garlic powder in a bowl until combined. Pour the mixture evenly over meat and vegetables. Cover tightly with foil.
• Bake for 2 hours.
• Remove from oven and let rest at least 15 minutes. Carve meat. Serve with vegetables and pan gravy.
• Note: This method also works well in a large oval slow-cooker, low setting for 6 to 8 hours. Alternatively, omit the vegetables (except the sliced onions), and cook the 7-bone roast alone as a main dish.

With so many opportunities for fun here at the beach, isn't it nice to know that you can define "vacation" to suit your own needs: short, long, active or quiet. For your convenience, here is a quick link to check accommodations availability.

5/1. 4th Annual Makai Luau at Atalaya Castle at Huntington Beach State Park. Hosted by the Surfrider Foundation of the Grand Strand, this event begins at 4:30 pm. Price includes all food, beverages, and entertainment (Hawaiian music, hula dancing, fire show, silent auction). Held rain or shine, and tickets are limited. For more information contact 843.357.2007 or www.surfridergrandstrand.org.

5/1. Pelicans versus Salem Avalanche. 7 pm. Free kid stuff and a great day at the ball park. BB&T Coastal Field (1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach). Call 877.918.8500 or go online www.MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

5/1. Voices of Broadway-The Greatest Ensemble Music from throughout the History of Broadway. Held at the Myrtle Beach Train Station, this event features the Carolina Master Chorale. For more information call 843.444.5774 or online at www.CarolinaMasterChorale.org.

5/2. 13th Annual Blessing of the Inlet at Belin Methodist Church, from 2 pm to 4 pm. A favorite day for all Inlet locals and returning visitors, this special event includes great food from local restaurants, baked goods from the church ladies, entertainment all day long, games for the children and arts and crafts treasures for sale. This is an opportunity to bow our heads in prayer to give thanks for our beautiful marsh. For more information, call 843.651.5099.

5/2. The Oak Ridge Boys at the Alabama Theatre in North Myrtle Beach. Make a date to see this live performance, starting at 7 pm. Call 800.342.2262 or see www.alabama-theatre.com for more information.

5/2. 23rd Music and Arts Festival on Mainstreet in "Rivertown" Conway, SC. From 10 am to 10 pm. This free all day event includes live music, art show and galleries, vendors, food, family fun. Bring a chair (no coolers or pets please) and enjoy. For more information, 843.248.6260 or www.conwaymainstreet.com.

5/2 to 8/31. The Summer Arts Project at The Market Common begins and runs through the end of August. 10:00 am to 8:00 pm. The Market Common is excited to host artists creating original works of art on Adirondack chairs. They will be displayed throughout The Market Common and auctioned off at the end of the summer! Location is 4017 Deville Street. For more information, call 843.839.3500 or go online at www.marketcommonevents.com.

5/3. "Get Your Zing On" Fashion Show at the Zonta Club of Myrtle Beach. From 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Fund-raiser for local CASA includes fashion show by Isabella's and special entertainment. Held at St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Myrtle Beach. For information, call 843.357.3752.

5/8-17. Myrtle Beach Bike Week. For more information see www.myrtlebeachbikeweek.com. [Note: according to the news, the May 15-16 Carolina Harley-Davidson Dealers Association May Rally is being moved from Myrtle Beach to New Bern, NC. The larger rally called "Cruising the Coast-Spring Bike Week" is not being moved, per the Festival Promotions head and the head of MB Harley-Davidson. The "Bike Fest" held in Atlantic Beach at the end of May is still on, but the town is apparently opposed to it.]

5/9. Mayfest on Main Street in North Myrtle Beach. Main Street is the site and sounds of legendary musicians Dean Torrence, Al Jardine, and David Marks, plus numerous other beach bands. Whether you want to stroll on over to "music central," the horseshoe at the beach end of Main Street, or check out the craft show or watch the kids play in the children's area, you will enjoy this music and this entire day. Sponsored by the North Myrtle Beach Chamber and Avista Resort, plus a number of the area's businesses, loads of fun for the entire family. This free concert starts at 1 pm. The festivities begin at 10.

5/9. 2009 Pawleys Pavilion Reunion from 6:30 pm to midnight. The 12th Annual Pawleys Pavilion Reunion is a cultural outdoor dancing celebration featuring some of America's greatest beach bands and music. Come relive the memories and make new ones at the Pawleys Pavilion Reunion. Pawleys Park on Pawleys Island. For more information, call 877.577.2357.

5/23. A Crabby Experience at Myrtle Beach State Park from 10 am to 11:30 am. Test your luck from the pier as you try to catch a variety of crabs and fish. Limited traps available for a $3 rental fee. Bring your own raw chicken for bait or buy bait from the pier. Catch and release. Meet at the fishing pier at 4401 South Kings Hwy in Myrtle Beach. For more information, call 843.238.0874 or go online to www.myrtlebeachsp.com. [This event reoccurs next on 5/30.]

5/23-25. Red, White and Blue at Brookgreen Gardens, a Tribute to Our Veterans. Flags honor the war memorial and graves of veterans buried on the grounds. Call 843.235.6000 for more information.

5/28-30. Myrtle Beach Military Appreciation Days. Military installations in SC, NC, and GA are invited to attend with their families. Competitive sporting events for active-duty military include a golf tournament at Whispering Pines, baseball tournaments, a marksmanship tournament, a 5K run/walk, and a combat cuisine cook-off. Veterans and civilians are invited to compete in the 5K run/walk. Military and their families enjoy the event with picnics, model airplane and boat demonstrations, concert, awards ceremony, and much more. Check accommodations specials with our reservation agents through our web site or phone numbers. More information about the event itself through 843.918.1012 or email to dmckenzie@cityofmyrtlebeach.com.