Dozens of Grand Strand tourism, business, and education leaders headed to the Midlands Wednesday to talk with lawmakers.
The Legislative Reception is a chance for those from the coast to increase awareness of the Myrtle Beach area and its contributions to the state to members of the General Assembly.
At the annual Grand Strand Legislative Reception there was plenty food, beverages, and socializing.
While many were getting to know each other, officials say this event is not just about making new friends.
"Everybody is working every angle, trying to protect local residents, lower taxes, create jobs. We come to Columbia to share our message and hopefully bring back good news to the Grand Strand," said Brad Dean, President of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.
"You want that face recognition. You want to be able to to talk to your house and senate members," added Dr. David DeCenzo, President of Coastal Carolina University.
Dr. DeCenzo goes on to say the social atmosphere lends itself to good conversation.
That includes talk about federal funding for I-73, funding for beach renourishment and higher education.
"The reality that funding continues to decrease, we understand that, but what are some other options that might be out there," said DeCenzo.
The success of Wednesday night's event is also important because of program cuts the state is facing.
"Leave the legislators with an impression and remind them that the Grand Strand is part of the state's budget solution, not part of the budget problem," said Dean.
Other items that are part of the Chamber's legislative priority list are support for mass transit systems, funding for deep water ocean outfall projects, and maintaining current fee structure at Myrtle Beach International Airport.
Earlier Wednesday, Georgetown County tourism leaders held a similar reception in Columbia.
