Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008

Happy in Carolina Forest

Bar owner counts himself lucky to be in his position

PAGE 5

EDITOR'S NOTE

Catch David Murphy sitting still and consider yourself lucky.

"It's easier being out and being busy," said the co-owner of Tavern in the Forest. Murphy is in charge of promotions and he can be found behind the bar or out distributing fliers announcing an upcoming event.

Murphy moved to Carolina Forest two years ago. The Atlantic City, N.J.-native dabbled in insurance and owned another bar before settling in the growing community.

"Growth and really the volume of what you could get here is what drew me here," he said. "It doesn't make sense not to live in Carolina Forest."

He and his wife enjoy living in Carolina Forest because of its proximity to the beach and all of the activities surrounding Myrtle Beach.

"In the busy times, you're not stuck in the middle of the crowds, but you're close enough to the beach that you can enjoy it."

On the practical end, Murphy said the newer amenities and lower property insurance rates - inland from the waterway - make the area a more enticing place.

In fact, that's part of the reason Tavern in the Forest is located off the beaten path of U.S. 501. It's on River Oaks Drive and Carolina Forest Boulevard, and the openings of other area businesses have really helped their business by drawing customers from U.S. 501.

"It's really taken off since June," he said.

Murphy said he is pleased with the staff that is in place at the Tavern and hopes customers continue to have that "warm feeling" when they stop by in the new year.

"I hope the business continues to progress the way it has been progressing," he said.