gsSCENE

Match Made in Heaven

2011-09-01T16:10:00.003-04:00

For the past year gsSCENE has done everything they can to spread the word to local nonprofits on why they should have and NEED young professionals on their nonprofit boards. With the gsLEAD program, we are slowing making progress. A post from The Good Counsel Blog shows that this pairing of young professionals and nonprofit boards are a better match than one might think!

"Assuming a nonprofit organization has the right young individual for board service, it can be a mutually beneficial experience. The right candidate has to be a person who has a deep passion for the mission of the organization. I would never advocate putting a twenty-something on a board just because he/she fills a demographic hole. The individual MUST believe in the organization mission, or it doesn’t matter how old he/she is, it won’t be a good fit.

Those dedicated young professionals who really love an organization have oodles of value. It’s often up to the board’s leadership to know how to channel this talent productively. For example, many young professionals have large online networks and know how to build them, something many nonprofit organizations are trying to do.

Young professionals are often very savvy at online marketing and social media strategies. Even if they are not willing or able to run the online presence for an organization, they are usually willing to teach someone else how to do so.

Additionally, younger people tend to be more generous with both time and money than the boomer generation (based on disposable income). Many young people are more willing to give up time to an organization, which many groups will tell you can sometimes be more valuable than money."

Posted by The Good Counsel, by Dania Toscano Miwa on August 29, 2011. To read full blog post click here.

Reaching a New Group!

2011-03-23T15:27:00.002-04:00

Today gsSCENE participated in the Coastal Carolina University Career Fair. When we signed up to have a booth, we looked at it as a way to get more exposure and maybe get a few graduating seniors interested in our program. This demographic is a great base for gsSCENE to draw members from because here are people that are "fresh" to the workplace and WANT to get involved! But after getting to the career fair and seeing the response, we were amazed!

Our booth was slammed! I was so happy to hear all the students talk about how they had heard about us and how they really did want to get to know more people when they graduated and got into the working world. Of course, many thought we were hiring or trying to get interns and while some immediately left us when we told them we weren't, the majority stayed and seemed very interested in what all we had to offer.

So hopefully at our April 7, birthday celebration we will have a lot of new faces! If you see someone at the event you don't know....go talk to them. Isn't that why everybody is there? To network and meet new people? And you think you know everyone, after meeting this whole new group of young adults...you don't!

Always Amazed at the Benefits

2011-01-20T10:12:00.003-05:00

Since gsSCENE started it has always amazed me of the different opportunities and benefits the group has been given. It seems venues and restaurants all want to host gsSCENE for events and businesses want to know how to get young professionals at their location. Obviously, it goes against what everyone thought when gsSCENE started that it wouldn't last and there weren't any "young professionals" here.

Recently gsSCENE members have been given another one of these amazing opportunities to participate in a really cool event. Terri DeCenzo from Coastal Carolina University spoke with me about getting gsSCENE members to a speaking engagement and book signing for Elizabeth Gilbert. For those of you that don't know, Elizabeth Gilbert is the author of Eat, Pray, Love. A New York Times Bestseller and even a hit movie staring Julia Roberts! Litchfield Books has set up for her to come speak at Pawleys Island Community Church. Unfortunately sometimes news of events along the Grand Strand don't get the attention of everyone and people end up missing out on some great events and opportunities.

For gsSCENE we are lucky to have groups, venues and people in our community making us aware of these events. And it's even better when we get special invites. So don't just look at gsSCENE as networking at gsSCENE events, you can network at all events. And you when you network you can find out about more networking!

Details of the event are on our calendar and we hope to see you there!

Are YOU the next YP of the year??

2010-07-27T08:43:00.001-04:00

gsSCENE and the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce have been recognizing the Young Professional of the Year going on three years now. Each year the amount of applications and nominations we receive is growing! It amazing me at all the wonderful things young professionals are doing on the Grand Strand AND to think that they are all part of gsSCENE. It also makes me wonder, why are people so shy in letting people know what they do.

In this award, self nominations are encouraged. And no, we aren't just saying that. A lot of times young people are very modest and a lot of people aren't aware of all they actually do. Especially when people are active in several groups like gsSCENE, Rotary, church groups, alumni groups and many more. So in reality YOU are the only one that can give yourself proper credit. AND you shouldn't be modest and not let the world know all the great things you do! So if you are this person or you know someone like this...nominate yourself and nominate your friend and get them to let you in on all that they do along the Grand Strand.

Nominations are being accepted until August 25 and you can get more information at gsSCENE.com.

The Blog and gsSCENE Heat UP

2010-07-08T11:10:00.003-04:00

I will be the first to admit the gsSCENE blog needs to pick up it's feet and start blogging more! So as we roll into year of committees, projects, events etc. The blogging will get a makeover!

gsSCENE has been on somewhat of a summer break...but that break is about to end in a BIG way! We have some awesome new projects and events coming up. On July 30 alone applications for gsLEAD and gsSCENE Ambassadors are due. These are two GREAT ways to get involved with the organization AND get involved with the community. We have a the gsSCENE Summer Happy Hours at Market Common where gsSCENE members can enjoy a relaxed happy hour every Friday night at a different restaurant at Market Common followed by awesome live music by a variety of different local bands.

So now that gsSCENE has taken a little summer vacation, we are ready to get things moving again!

Your gsSCENE Membership Card

2010-04-21T14:14:00.001-04:00

Hopefully you have your card and hopefully you have tried to use it at any of the participating vendors. And a bigger hopefully is that they took the card and recognized it to give you the discount. When gsSCENE first came out with the membership cards, some establishments weren't accepting them. The cards were new, staff weren't aware of them or maybe they just missed the staff meeting where they were covered. BUT as the year has progressed, the cards are getting more attention and they actually work! No one wants to be that person that tries to get a discount and gets turned down, so some might not even try, but even if your waiter or waitress don't know about it, have them ask and chances are the discount will be honored.

Keep checking out the web in the next few weeks to see the NEW venues participating in the membership cards. Let's just say not only does gsSCENE allow you to network with all kinds of young professionals, but we also help you stay on your budget!

But the Socials are Too Big!

2010-01-27T12:45:00.002-05:00

Ok it's official, gsSCENE's socials are large. In fact some say too large. We want more socials. We want less socials. We want smaller socials. We want larger socials. We get it all the time and trust me gsSCENE TRIES to be everything to everybody. So we created something that we think might help some of the issues. Starting Feb. 4 as a new member (or an old one) you can come to our new member orientation. Why you ask? Well for one, we will have our new ambassadors there. These folks are there so that everyone will know SOMEONE at gsSCENE events, big or small. They will welcome members as they sign up for gsSCENE and introduce them to existing members in the group. gsSCENE feels this is a great way to not have people feeling the socials are too big and hard to meet people.

There are also several other options for those that don't even want to go to the large socials including Morning Rush, educational classes and new member orientation.

Morning Rush Continues!!

2009-12-21T16:26:00.002-05:00

gsSCENE had been around for about 8 months and we started hearing that while people liked our big socials, they wanted something smaller. The events committee created a small networking committee and they created Morning Rush...Networking Breakfast. The object was simple...have gsSCENE members there, in a small group and force them to network. Well, it sounded a lot easier than it was.

If you have been to more than one Morning Rush, you might notice they have all been different. That's because gsSCENE has been trying out different techniques that allow everyone in the room to network with everyone, all the while not being TOO cheesy! Well whichever time gsSCENE members came, they must have enjoyed! gsSCENE always asks participants to complete a survey and the response was great!

Croissants Bistro and Bakery will continue to support gsSCENE and host the Morning Rush...Networking Breakfasts in 2010. In fact, we already have two dates set. Check out www.gsSCENE.com to see when they are and register soon, because space is limited!

Kicking off the New Year Right!

2009-12-17T15:47:00.002-05:00

gsSCENE is kicking off 2010 with a community service project for Habitat for Humanity. On January 9, gsSCENE members and friends will be helping to give the Habitat for Humanity of Horry County Resale Store a face lift. With paint brushes in hand, (no prior painting experience required), gsSCENE looks forward to starting 2010 with a community service project.

Want to come? Register at www.gsSCENE.com

gsSCENE is Not Alone

2009-09-21T10:57:00.002-04:00

This past week I was fortunate to attend the Next Generation Leadership Conference, previously known as the Young Professional Conference, in Cincinnati, OH. Over 250 young professionals gathered for the week to learn about new ideas for their young professional group, share stories and hear from some amazing speakers. One main things I learned was that gsSCENE is not alone in not only our accomplishments, but also in our struggles. Too many times I get the "gsSCENE is a social club" or "gsSCENE is just for singles who drink." The sad part is, gsSCENE does SO MUCH MORE than socialize! Just this past weekend gsSCENE participated in the 21st Annual Beach Sweep with over 26 participants. We have offered numerous professional development classes and are working on new initiatives for our members. At the conference I heard from several groups that had some awesome projects they did in their community. I walked away from the sessions geared up to come back to Myrtle Beach and take gsSCENE to the next level, AND make sure everyone knows about it!

Summer Time in the Grand Strand

2009-07-22T09:34:00.002-04:00

There is one thing that is for sure, and that is during the summer there is ALWAYS something going on! Whether it be all the concert series, different fundraising events or restaurants having deals, finding something to do here is not a problem. Or is it?

Sometimes it's hard to keep up with all the events going on. Not to mention during the summer people are taking vacations, day dreaming of vacations or just trying to make it through the work week. So what's an easy way to get the events out there? But of course, posting them on the gsSCENE bulletin area of the members only section.

If you are over an event, or just know of a cool event going on in the area, please take the time and share all the info with your fellow gsSCENE members. We all want to know what we can be doing after work and on the weekends, so please, share the event love!

Kickball is Not for The Weak

2009-05-06T15:10:00.002-04:00

Whoever said kickball was for kids apparently never played. gsSCENE had their first Kickin' it for Charity Kickball Tournament on May 2 at Ripken Experience. After the first game played, I knew this was going to hurt. Hurt really isn't the word I would use to describe how I felt the following day. Tortured, pained beyond belief and too sore to walk correctly better described how one's body would feel after playing in a kickball tournament.

It never failed, no matter who I talked to everybody said the same thing, "I am too sore to even walk." And kickball is supposed to be for kids! But other than the days it took to recuperate, the kickball tournament was nothing short of a success!

With 11 teams battling out, Handley's Pub was the champion. And the best part about the day was the $2,500 raised for United Way of Horry County. So even though it took me three days to be able to tie my shoes, I do believe it was all worth it in the end.

Where were you one year ago?

2009-04-09T15:13:00.003-04:00

One year ago today, the gsSCENE steering committee anxiously awaited our big "reveal" day, aka gsSCENE kick off party. We were meeting every week trying to finish last minute details on what events we would have on our calendar, how should we publicize our debut, and most importantly, is anyone even going to come?! Then the big day came, and lo and behold there was a thunder storm moving in. But someone was looking out for us and the rain moved by and the day had clear skies. And then an when we thought it couldn't get any better, everybody and their brother showed up (or it felt that way). Folks jammed to Soul Function, ate drank and seemed to be pretty merry.

And from that fateful evening on May 8, gsSCENE grew and grew and now we all dream of those gsSCENE polka dots (yea the ones in the logo). Hopefully kick off part deuce will be just as big! So spread the word on May 7, Boathouse here we come!

Free Money!!

2009-03-09T13:33:00.002-04:00

On March 28 gsSCENE has a chance to make money all while just having fun. How you might ask? Beer Fest needs volunteers! Beer Fest are popular events all over, but Myrtle Beach has never had one. But now we do, and it's going to be huge!

So gsSCENE was approached to help work the event and by providing 30 volunteers, gsSCENE will get a check, which we will then donate to a local charity. The volunteer perks are pretty awesome. For working you get a complimentary ticket into the event and a free Beer Fest t-shirt. Originally gsSCENE thought we would get more than enough people to help out, but here we are a few weeks away and we need MORE volunteers! You can register at www.gsSCENE.com and no beer fest experience needed!

It's free money and wouldn't it be a shame to let free money go to waste??!!

Inner Workings of gsSCENE

2009-02-17T14:17:00.002-05:00

People ask all the time, "How exactly is gsSCENE run?" So, let me answer the question. gsSCENE is a program of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. You do not have to be a member of the chamber to be a member of gsSCENE. The memberships are done on an individual basis, so being a member of the chamber does not make you a member of gsSCENE. Confused yet?

gsSCENE is run by a steering committee of young professionals who live and work on the Grand Strand. Every year, committee members rotate off and new committee members come on board. The steering committee is limited and those individuals are appointed by the chairman of the chamber board. This committee has the final say in all the events, functions and everything in between of gsSCENE. But most all gsSCENE ideas come from one of our subcommittees. These committees are made up of any gsSCENE members who would like to be involved. They are headed by a gsSCENE steering committee member. Now you must be confused?!

Bottom line, anyone who wants to play a role in what gsSCENE does can do so. We need all the help we can get! I am amazed at the ideas and suggestions we get every time we meet (and gsSCENE in some shape or form is always meeting!). So if you are still wondering how gsSCENE works, then let us know and participate in a committee. You would be amazed at all the people and resources it takes for gsSCENE to run!

Shuckin on the Strand is Success!

2009-02-10T15:42:00.002-05:00

After months of planning, gsSCENE's Inaugural Oyster Roast, "Shuckin' on the Strand" proved to be worth all the time and energy. Held at Hot Fish Club on Saturday, Feb. 7 (a warm one I might add) we had over 400 people show up to shuck some oysters! Over 250 of those were nonmembers and we even generated 16 new members from the event.

Several media picked up the event and a recap will be featured in this weeks Myrtle Beach Herald and Carolina Forest Chronicle.

I must give it to Hot Fish Club who totally out did themselves with the buffet food they provided. BBQ sandwiches, crab dip and jambalaya just to get your taste buds going. Local oysters and shrimp by the bucket were sold out by the end of the day.

Stay tuned to check out pictures from the event on www.gsSCENE.com

Oyster Ready

2009-02-04T08:48:00.002-05:00

As gsSCENE gears up for their first oyster roast, "Shuckin' on the Strand," the committee realizes that this event has grown into something huge! What originally started as an idea to bring oyster roasts similar to Charleston style, then moved to a gsSCENE exclusive event. Originally the event was going to be for gsSCENE members only. But then we realized how much people on the coast LOVE their oysters, we decided to go full speed and open it up to the community. With over 300 attendees expected, gsSCENE hopes that this event surpasses even our kick off at The Boathouse.

And not only can people enjoy oysters, live music and a bonfire. We are asking for people to bring goods to be donated to Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach. Suggested Items: Pork & Beans, Instant Potatoes, Kool Aid, Mac & Cheese, Cereal, Grits, Oatmeal, Deodorant & Toothpaste. Random? Yes, but hopefully we can have fun all while supporting a great cause.

So let's hold our breath and hope for good weather while we count down the days until Saturday!

Who Loves Community Service? We Do!

2009-01-26T13:10:00.001-05:00

A tremendous thank you to everyone that assisted with Angelfood Ministries on Saturday, January 24, 2009. We had a great time together and enjoyed serving others. The morning shift workers endured the elements of rain and unloaded a semi-truck full of food for 150 families in the Grand Strand area. Thanks to the men with "big guns" who did all of the heavy lifting. The truck was unloaded in under one and a half hours, the fastest recorded time at Angelfood Ministries. The second shift arrived just before noon. Heather Gale & Samantha Slapnik braved the continued rain and greeted consumers as they arrived providing all pertinent information, collecting their empty boxes and reciepts for payment. The remainder of volunteers worked in the warehouse and loaded boxes with individual food items for distribution. We enjoyed publicity from WPDE TV-15 and the Myrtle Beach Herald. Everyone had a fantastic time not only bonding with fellow gsSCENE members but making a difference along the Grand Strand!

Participating gsSCENE members: Shannon Camp, Mark Howell, Nicole Aiello, Ryan Hannon, Julie Kopnicky, Kevin Cox, Jeff Marshall, Pryor Tatum, Erin Callihan, Justin Tucker, Samantha Slapnik, Erika Warneck, Kevin Boyce, Scott Ham, Yvonne Koerner, Heather Gale, Tammy Ramsey, David Thomas, Kathleen King. Additional Volunteers: Julie Davenport, Kiel Chapman, Bernie Gridley, Trey & Danielle Kelly, TJ & Beth Goff.

Wine Experts?!

2009-01-23T08:18:00.003-05:00

For the first event of 2009, gsSCENE took a different approach and combined a social with an educational aspect. For 60 lucky gsSCENErs we got to experience different types of wine with different types of food. We were hosted by WaterScapes Restaurant in the Marinna Inn. The seminar titled, "Cause & Effect," had us eating foods of different flavors and then tasting red and white wines to see if the food had a good, "active," effect or a bad, "reactive," effect on the wine. While some attendees could indeed taste the diffence, others found their palettes weren't quite as sophisticated. Either way, we enjoyed learning the helpful hints of pairing wine and food and look forward to sharing our knowledge with others as they sip their vino.

House of Blues, a HOT one!

2008-08-08T14:22:00.001-04:00

gs SCENE was excited to host our fourth social at the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach. One thing was for sure, it sure was HOT! Now we know to prepare ourselves for outside events in August. Other than the heat we had over 100 people in attendance and 5 new members joined at the event. This was gs SCENE's first event on the north end and considered a great success. Check out pictures from this event!

July social at B&C Art Museum

2008-08-05T22:59:00.001-04:00

Networking & the Arts....what a wonderful combination!! With over 100 people again attending, members had the opportunity not only to network but to enhance their cultural knowledge. Thanks to all members/volunteers who help with the clean up....you all rock!
~gsSCENE steering committee member

3rd Eye Blind Pictures - Part 1

2008-06-02T15:07:00.001-04:00

Kick-off Event in May at the Boathouse

2008-05-08T22:50:00.001-04:00

What an awesome event! With over 325 people attending, it is obvious that there is a great need along the Grand Strand for an organization geared specifically for young professionals. Looking forward to attending many, many more!
-gsSCENE steering committee member