The City of Myrtle Beach said it's new slate of May events will eventually bring in tourists of all ages, and that can help re-coup some of the lost revenue from this year's thwarted May bike rallies.
But at least one local business owner believes the damage has already been done to bring back valuable tourist dollars to all of the Grand Strand.
The annual Harley-Davidson motorcycle rally and the Atlantic Beach Memorial Day Bike Fest both saw subdued numbers after Myrtle Beach City Council passed a series of ordinances aimed at curtailing the events.
Now, the city says this weekend's Military Appreciation Days is a prime example of how the city wants to bring in more people to bring in more money to hurting area businesses.
Military Appreciation Days kicks off on Friday, and will be centered around Grand Park and Valor Memorial Gardens on the old Air Force base property. Planners invited active military personnel and their families from bases across both Carolinas, as well as groups, vendors, and displays that will appeal to veterans of all ages.
"It's something for everyone," said Diane Moskow-McKenzie, senior planner for the city. "Everyone can enjoy--all ages--and we encouarge people to come out, bring your lawn chairs, bring your picnic lunch, just sit back and enjoy the day."
Phil Pecora, who owns Toffino's Italian Bakery and Deli, located close to the parks, says the city is trying to do too little, too late.
"I just don't see how that equates to what they've done (by curtailing biker business)," he said Tuesday morning. "Quite frankly, I think (the city) is treating the citizens of this city like a bunch of idiots."
"We have customers that have left this area and said they will not come back," he said. "They feel like they're coming to a place where they're just not welcome."
For a complete list of Military Appreciation Days events, click here.
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