NMB Police Officer, Christopher Arthur King, arrested in Surfside Beach

David Hucks
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NMB Police Officer, Christopher Arthur King, arrested in Surfside Beach

DUI and leaving the scene of a collision are charges against Christopher Arthur King.

A North Myrtle Beach Police (NMBPD) Officer, Christopher Arthur King was arrested and charged with causing a wreck in Surfside Beach last fall.

On September 7, 2023, at 10:04 p.m., Surfside Beach Police Department officers responded to a collision where a Jeep Wrangler ended up on top of a Ford Mustang.

As a witness told police, King’s Jeep Wrangler crossed Highway 17 and collided with the Ford Mustang. King,exited the Jeep from the rear and did not return.

According to the incident report, a woman who was in the Jeep at the time claimed she was driving, while two other witnesses said otherwise. All three witnesses said the driver was male.

According to the report, the female passenger inside the Jeep identified the male as “Chris King,” but she insisted that she was the driver.

As a result of further investigation, officers learned King was a Surfside Beach resident, so they went to his home in an attempt to locate him. Once he was located, officers brought the witnesses to the crime scene to confirm King’s identity.

His injuries were treated at South Strand Hospital after he was arrested at his home.

The suspect gave police a blood sample to test his blood alcohol level, but claimed to be the passenger. The blood testing kit was returned to “appropriate parties for further lab testing,” according to the police report.

He claimed a red mark the size of a seatbelt on his right upper biceps area proved he was seated in the passenger seat, according to the report. The area of King’s injury, however, did not appear consistent with where a shoulder belt would typically sit. King also reportedly sustained other injuries as a result of the severity of the crash, making it unclear how he obtained the red mark.

King was taken to J Reuben Long just after 2:30 a.m. and charged.

The NMBPD released the following statement about King’s arrest:

The North Myrtle Beach Police Department has placed an officer on administrative duty pending the outcome of an Internal Affairs investigation after he was charged with driving under the influence and fleeing the scene of an accident. Sgt. Chris King has worked for the department for eight years and currently serves as the Traffic Division supervisor. His augmented assignment stems from an accident that occurred at approximately 2200 hours on September 7, 2023. This incident occurred while King was off duty and in the jurisdiction of Surfside Beach, SC.

Rep Todd Rutherford calls for license plate reader reform state-wide

David Hucks
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Rep Todd Rutherford calls for license plate reader reform state-wide

Law enforcement accountability and state regulations are being pushed after a controversial traffic stop of La’Nisha Hemingway, a NMB high school student, last month in North Myrtle Beach. The North Myrtle Beach teenager was stopped at gun point after being misidentified by a plate reader embedded in a traffic light.

Representative Todd Rutherford has tried three times to introduce a bill regulating license plate readers, but it has never been passed.

According to Paul Bowers with the American Civil Liberties Union of South Carolina, license plate reader regulations across the state are problematic.

La’Nisha Hemingway, 18, claims she was wrongfully detained at gunpoint by North Myrtle Beach police.

ACTUAL POLICE ARREST OF La’Nisha Hemingway WRONGFULLY STOPPED

A license plate reader notified officers that her car had been stolen, according to the lawsuit.

According to the lawsuit, officers realized they had pulled over the wrong car after Hemingway was detained. The acknowledgment was captured on the body camera.

There is a problem with that, Bowers pointed out. “Nobody is setting up guard rails for how this technology is used,” Bowers said. “There are often no rules in place regarding how data are collected, how they are stored, how long they can be kept, or how they can be used as evidence in court in the case of automatic license plates.”

The officers involved are equally responsible for escalating this situation, as some influential advocates claim better standards for the tech could have prevented it.

“Is the license plate reader to blame if it, did it get that information before the officer got out of the wrong car?” continued Rutherford.

The bodycam video appears to show that one of the officers knew they were pulling over the wrong car, prompting further questions from lawmakers.

“The problem with that is no one along the way is doing the work of accountability,” Bowers said. “Nobody is setting up guard rails for how this technology is used. Particularly, in the case of automatic license plates, there are often no real rules in place about how data are collected, how they’re stored, how long they’re stored, or how they can be used as evidence in court.”

Breeze Airways now offers $49 Scranton PA and Weschester NY flights

David Hucks
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Breeze Airways now offers $49 Scranton PA and Weschester NY flights

MYRTLEBEACHSC NEWS – On Thursday, Breeze Airways will debut two new routes from Myrtle Beach International Airport to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, PA, and Westchester County, NY.

According to a release from the airline, fares on the new routes will start at $49 one-way.

In February, Breeze Airways began service from Myrtle Beach to Providence, Rhode Island.

There are several other destinations served by the airline from the Myrtle Beach airport, including Tampa, Florida, Hartford, Connecticut, Charleston, West Virginia, Akron, Ohio, Westchester, New York, and Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.

Westchester County’s route will run four times a week, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, with fares starting at $59 one way.

Starting at $49, the Wilkes-Barre route runs on Thursdays and Sundays.

Everything You Need to Know About Breeze Airways

In the world of air travel, Breeze Airways is a name that’s gaining traction.

Launched by David Neeleman, the founder of JetBlue, Breeze Airways aims to redefine the flying experience.

This airline focuses on underserved routes, connecting smaller cities that larger airlines often overlook.

With a fleet of modern Embraer and Airbus aircraft, Breeze Airways promises a comfortable journey.

In this article, we delve into everything you need to know about Breeze Airways.

From its mission and services to travel options and customer reviews, we’ve got you covered.

Breeze Airways: A Brief Overview

Breeze Airways is the fifth airline venture by David Neeleman.

Launched in May 2021, the airline is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The airline operates with a unique business model.

It focuses on secondary markets and underserved routes, connecting smaller cities without direct flights.

Breeze Airways aims to provide a “seriously nice” travel experience.

With a modern fleet and a customer-centric approach, it’s quickly making a name for itself in the aviation industry.

The Vision and Mission of Breeze Airways

Breeze Airways was founded with a clear vision: to make travel simple and convenient.

The airline’s mission is to serve underserved routes, connecting smaller cities directly and reducing travel time. Breeze Airways aims to provide a seamless and enjoyable travel experience, living up to its tagline of being “seriously nice”.

The Fleet: Comfort Meets Efficiency

Breeze Airways operates a modern fleet of aircraft, ensuring comfort and efficiency. The airline primarily uses Embraer and Airbus models, known for their reliability and fuel efficiency.

The fleet includes the following aircraft:

  • Embraer E190/E195
  • Airbus A220-300

These aircraft are designed to provide a comfortable flying experience, with ample legroom and modern amenities. Breeze Airways’ commitment to efficiency is evident in its choice of aircraft, which are designed to minimize fuel consumption and reduce environmental impact.

Destinations and Route Highlights

Breeze Airways focuses on serving underserved routes and secondary markets. This strategy allows the airline to provide valuable services to communities often overlooked by larger airlines.

The airline currently serves a variety of destinations across the United States. Some of the key destinations include:

  • Tampa, Florida
  • Charleston, South Carolina
  • New Orleans, Louisiana
  • Norfolk, Virginia
  • Akron, Ohio

These destinations offer a mix of business and leisure travel options, catering to a wide range of passenger needs. Breeze Airways continues to expand its route network, with plans to add more destinations in the future.

Travel Classes and Amenities

Breeze Airways offers two travel classes: Nice and Nicer. The Nice class is the standard economy class, providing comfortable seating and a pleasant flight experience. The Nicer class, on the other hand, offers extra legroom and additional amenities for a more luxurious journey.

In-flight amenities include free personal item storage, overhead bin space, and a selection of snacks and beverages. For Nicer class passengers, additional perks such as priority boarding and extra baggage allowance are also available. Breeze Airways aims to make every journey enjoyable, regardless of the travel class chosen.

Booking Your Flight with Breeze Airways

Booking a flight with Breeze Airways is a straightforward process. You can book directly through their website or mobile app, both designed with user-friendly interfaces. The booking process is simple and intuitive, allowing you to select your preferred travel dates, destinations, and class of service with ease.

Breeze Airways also offers a flexible booking policy. This means you can make changes to your booking without incurring hefty fees, a feature that sets Breeze Airways apart from many other airlines. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for travelers whose plans may change at short notice.

Understanding Breeze Airways’ Fare Structure

Breeze Airways operates on a low-cost fare structure, aiming to provide affordable travel options to its customers. The airline offers a range of fare classes, each with its own set of benefits and restrictions. The fare classes include ‘Nice’, ‘Nicer’, and ‘Nicest’, each progressively offering more amenities and flexibility.

The ‘Nice’ fare is the most basic and affordable, offering a seat on the plane with one personal item. The ‘Nicer’ fare includes additional benefits like extra legroom, priority boarding, and a checked bag. The ‘Nicest’ fare offers the most benefits, including two checked bags, extra legroom seats, priority boarding, and flexible ticket changes. This tiered fare structure allows passengers to choose the level of service that best fits their budget and travel needs.

Baggage Policies: What to Know Before You Pack

When flying with Breeze Airways, it’s important to understand their baggage policies to avoid any last-minute surprises. For all fare classes, one personal item like a purse or laptop bag is allowed on board at no extra cost. The dimensions for this item should not exceed 17 x 13 x 8 inches.

If you’re traveling with more than a personal item, the baggage allowance varies based on the fare class. ‘Nicer’ and ‘Nicest’ fares include one and two checked bags respectively, while ‘Nice’ fare passengers can add checked bags for an additional fee. The maximum weight for checked bags is 50 pounds, and the maximum size is 62 linear inches. It’s always a good idea to check the latest baggage policies on Breeze Airways’ website before packing for your trip.

Cancellation and Refund Policies

Breeze Airways offers flexible cancellation and refund policies for its passengers. If you need to cancel your flight, you can do so without a penalty up to 15 minutes before departure. The amount paid will be credited to your Breeze account for future travel. However, it’s always recommended to review the most current cancellation and refund policies on the Breeze Airways website before making any changes to your booking.

The Breeze Airways Customer Experience

Breeze Airways aims to provide a “seriously nice” customer experience. This starts from the moment you book your flight, with a user-friendly website and mobile app. The airline’s staff are known for their friendly and helpful service, both at the airport and in-flight.

Onboard, passengers can expect comfortable seating and a range of in-flight services. While Breeze Airways is a budget airline, it doesn’t compromise on comfort or service. The airline’s focus on customer satisfaction is evident in its efforts to make flying a pleasant experience for all passengers.

Frequent Flyer Program: Earning with Every Flight

Breeze Airways offers a frequent flyer program that rewards loyal customers. With every flight, passengers earn points that can be redeemed for future travel. This program is a testament to Breeze Airways’ commitment to providing value to its customers, making each journey with them more rewarding.

Staying Safe: Health and Safety Protocols

Breeze Airways prioritizes the health and safety of its passengers. The airline has implemented stringent COVID-19 protocols, including thorough sanitization of aircraft, mandatory mask-wearing, and social distancing measures. These steps ensure that travelers can fly with peace of mind, knowing their well-being is taken care of.

Customer Reviews and What They Say About Breeze Airways

Customer reviews for Breeze Airways are generally positive. Passengers appreciate the airline’s friendly service, comfortable seating, and affordable fares. However, like any airline, Breeze Airways has received some criticism, mainly related to occasional flight delays and limited route options.

Surfside Beach resident drowns in Myrtle Beach

David Hucks
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Surfside Beach resident drowns in Myrtle Beach

Surfside Beach resident drowns while swimming in Myrtle Beach

According to the Horry County Coroner’s Office, a 32-year-old man living near Surfside Beach died Monday morning after being pulled from the ocean in the City of Myrtle Beach and taken to the hospital.

In a news release from the coroner’s office, Christopher Burns is suspected of drowning after being pulled from the ocean near 3rd Ave. South in Myrtle Beach.

There will be an autopsy later this week, and the Myrtle Beach Police Department is investigating.

Since last year, about a dozen people have drowned in the waters around Myrtle Beach.

This article on Surfside Beach resident drowns will be updated when the Horry County Cororner completes her work. Stay tuned.

Conway High Standout now an Atlanta Braves relief pitcher

David Hucks
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Conway High Standout now an Atlanta Braves relief pitcher

Grant Holmes is the first Horry County Schools graduate to make it to the major leagues in Baseball.

The former Conway High School standout is now an Atlanta Braves relief pitcher.

Grant Holmes pictured with his wife Sami Holmes

About Grant Holmes

Career as an amateur

In 2014, Holmes was considered one of the top prospects for the Major League Baseball draft. He committed to the University of Florida.

LA Dodgers

Holmes was chosen by the Los Angeles Dodgers with the 22nd pick in the first round of the 2014 draft. The team signed him on June 17, 2014, offering a $2.5 million signing bonus. He began his professional career with the Arizona League Dodgers, where he had a record of 1-2 and an ERA of 3.00 in seven appearances. Later that season, on August 14, 2014, he moved up to the Ogden Raptors, where he started four games and had a record of 1-1 with an ERA of 4.91. To begin the following season in 2015, Holmes joined the Great Lakes Loons, earning a spot on the mid-season All-Star team and finishing with a record of 6-4 and an ERA of 3.14 in 24 starts. In 2016, he was promoted once again to start with the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes.

Oakland A’s

In exchange for Rich Hill and Josh Reddick, the Dodgers traded Holmes, Jharel Cotton, and Frankie Montas to the Oakland Athletics on August 1, 2016. He was assigned to Stockton Ports by Oakland, where he completed the season; he played 26 games (23 starts) between Rancho Cucamonga and Stockton, posting an 11–7 record and a 4.63 ERA. With the Midland RockHounds, Holmes pitched 11-12 innings, achieving a 4.49 ERA.

In November 2018, the Athletics added Holmes to their 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 draft. Despite missing over a month that year with shoulder soreness, he split the 2019 season between Midland and the Las Vegas Aviators and recorded a combined 6–5 record with a 3.23 ERA and 81 strikeouts in 86+1⁄3 innings. However, due to the cancelation of the minor league season in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Holmes did not play any games. Returning to play in Triple-A Las Vegas in 2021, he struggled with an 8.01 ERA in 36 appearances. As a result, on April 1st, 2022, the Athletics outrighted Holmes to Las Vegas and removed him from their 40-man roster. Unfortunately, his release came on July 28th, 2022.

Atlanta Braves

After signing a minor league deal with the Atlanta Braves organization on August 13, 2022, Holmes made three appearances for the rookie-level Florida Complex League Braves and High-A Rome Braves.

In the 2023 season, Holmes appeared in 50 games for the Triple-A Gwinnett Stripers, posting a 7–3 record with a 3.54 ERA with 74 strikeouts and 13 saves in 61.0 innings. He elected free agency following the season on November 6.

In November 2023, Holmes re-signed with the Braves on a minor league contract. In 18 games for Triple–A Gwinnett, he logged a 2.63 ERA with 51 strikeouts and 4 saves. After being selected for the 40-man roster on June 16, 2024, Holmes made his MLB debut that day against the Tampa Bay Rays, pitching three scoreless innings and recording two strikeouts.

Myrtle Beach entertainment pioneer passes

David Hucks
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Myrtle Beach entertainment pioneer passes

A Myrtle Beach entertainment pioneer passed away on Saturday, June 15th. During his life. Jack Lazarus founded racing and waterpark themed entertainment venues from North Myrtle Beach to Surfside Beach. His organization, Lazarus Entertainment Group, remains an industry leader.

His son, Mark Lazarus became politically active holding the Chair Horry County Council for several terms.

The family put the following post on Facebook as flags stood at half mast among the parks owned by Lazarus Entertainment.

On this Fathers Day, we want to acknowledge the great loss of a pioneer in the entertainment industry…our very own, Jack Lazarus. Jack passed away June 15, 2024 surrounded by family. For over 40 years Jack entertained guests through his parks and set the standard for the amusement park industry. His vision of entertaining guests through racing and waterpark fun won’t be going to the finish line anytime soon as we will continue to honor his legacy daily. RIP to the best there was ❤️

Family Remembers Jack Lazarus

Jack Lazarus was a car dealer in North Carolina before moving to the Grand Strand in 1976, finding success in the theme park attraction business.

Conway Railroad bridge closed for mechanical issue

David Hucks
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Conway Railroad bridge closed for mechanical issue

CONWAY, S.C. – The Waccamaw Coast Line Railroad bridge, located at mile 44.4 in Conway, South Carolina is closed to marine traffic due to a mechanical issue.

RJ Corman is working to complete a necessary repair to resume marine traffic.

Information is not currently available regarding the expected duration of the closure.

For questions, please contact Horry County Public Works at (843) 915-5410

History and Significance

The Waccamaw Coast Line Railroad Bridge, situated in South Carolina, has been a crucial component of the region’s infrastructure for years. Originally built to facilitate the transport of goods and passengers via rail across the water, it has since become an iconic landmark for locals. The bridge’s historical importance lies in its role in boosting the local economy and connecting communities back in the early 1900’s.

Connecting Communities

The railroad bridge was not just a structural feat; it was a lifeline for communities. By providing a reliable means for transportation and trade, it played a pivotal role in the development of the surrounding areas. Even today, as rail traffic has declined, the bridge stands as a symbol of the connection between the disparate communities along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Engineering Marvel

The construction of a railroad bridge over a navigable waterway presents numerous challenges. The Waccamaw Coast Line Railroad Bridge is no exception. It was designed to withstand the harsh marine environment and the heavy loads of freight trains. The bridge also had to accommodate the passage of boats along the waterway, a challenge met through a movable section that can be lifted or turned to allow maritime traffic to pass.

Adapting to Change

As the use of the waterway and the needs of transportation evolved, so too did the bridge. It transformed from a bustling railroad crossing to a quieter, yet still functional, piece of infrastructure. The adaptability of the bridge’s design is a testament to the foresight of its engineers.

Preservation and Future Use

Today, there is a growing interest in preserving historic structures like the Waccamaw Coast Line Railroad Bridge. These efforts are not only about honoring the past but also about envisioning the bridge’s future role. Could it become a pedestrian walkway or a feature of a scenic trail? The possibilities are exciting to consider.

A Symbol of Heritage

The bridge is more than steel and wood; it is a symbol of the region’s heritage and industrial past. Preserving it is a way to maintain a physical connection to the history that shaped the Intracoastal Waterway and the communities that line its banks.

FedEx closing Myrtle Beach Facility, laying off 200 employees

David Hucks
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FedEx closing Myrtle Beach Facility, laying off 200 employees

WARN (Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification) announced FedEx is closing three facilities, including one in Myrtle Beach and another in Florence.

Over 200 employees have been laid off as a result of the closures of all three facilities.

57 layoffs will be made at the Myrtle Beach facility, located at 1600 Stockholder Avenue, and 50 at the Florence facility, located at 709 West Lucas Street.

By September 3rd, both facilities will be closed. Closing operations began on June 6.

FedEx official David Westrick released the following statement regarding the layoffs and closures:

“Decisions of this nature are never made lightly, and are the result of much thought and consideration for the needs of our business.”

The History and Success of FedEx

FedEx is a name synonymous with delivery.

Founded in 1971, it has grown into a global powerhouse.

The Origins of FedEx

FedEx was born from the vision of Frederick W. Smith. In 1971, Smith founded the company, originally named Federal Express Corporation.

Smith’s idea was revolutionary. He introduced the concept of overnight delivery, a service unheard of at the time.

On the first night of operations, FedEx made history. Fourteen small aircraft delivered 186 packages to 25 U.S. cities.

The company’s early years were marked by several key events:

  • The introduction of the hub-and-spoke distribution model, which revolutionized the courier industry.
  • The establishment of the company’s headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee.
  • The first international shipment made by FedEx in 1981.

These milestones set the stage for FedEx’s future growth and success.

The FedEx Business Model: A Revolution in Delivery

The company’s business model was a game-changer in the courier industry. The hub-and-spoke distribution model allowed for efficient sorting and delivery of packages. This model was instrumental in the company’s ability to offer overnight delivery.

The company’s commitment to innovation didn’t stop there. FedEx introduced package tracking technologies, a significant milestone in the industry. This allowed customers to monitor their packages in real-time, enhancing transparency and trust.

Despite facing challenges such as economic downturns and competition, the company has maintained its reputation for reliability and speed. The company’s resilience is a testament to its strong business model and commitment to customer service.

FedEx’s Global Expansion and Acquisitions

FedEx’s growth has been marked by strategic expansions and acquisitions. The company made its first international shipment in 1981, marking the beginning of its global operations. Today, FedEx’s global network spans more than 220 countries and territories.

One of the company’s significant acquisitions was Kinko’s in 2004. This acquisition expanded FedEx’s service offerings, allowing it to provide more comprehensive solutions to its customers. It also marked the company’s foray into retail, with FedEx Office stores becoming a common sight in cities around the world.

FedEx’s global expansion and acquisitions have played a crucial role in its success. They have allowed the company to reach a wider customer base, offer a broader range of services, and stay competitive in the rapidly evolving courier industry.

Innovations and Milestones

The company has a history of innovation that has shaped the courier industry. The company introduced the concept of overnight delivery, revolutionizing the way businesses and individuals send and receive packages. This innovation was made possible by FedEx’s hub-and-spoke distribution model, which was a game-changer in the industry.

Another significant milestone for the company was the introduction of package tracking technologies. This allowed customers to monitor their shipments in real-time, providing a level of transparency and control that was unprecedented at the time. Today, real-time tracking and advanced logistics technology are standard features in the courier industry, thanks to FedEx’s pioneering efforts.

FedEx’s innovations and milestones reflect its commitment to improving the customer experience and staying ahead of the curve. The company’s history is a testament to its ability to adapt, innovate, and lead in a competitive and fast-paced industry.

Addressing Customer Concerns: Delivery Practices

FedEx’s reputation for reliability and speed in the delivery industry is not without its challenges. Online, some customers have voiced complaints about delivery practices, including allegations of FedEx lying about delivery attempts. These concerns have put the spotlight on the company’s customer service and delivery operations.

In response, FedEx has implemented measures to address these issues and improve customer satisfaction. The company has a dedicated customer service team to handle inquiries and complaints, and it continually invests in technology to enhance the delivery process and customer experience. FedEx’s approach to handling customer feedback and resolving issues is a key part of its commitment to service excellence.

FedEx Today: Operations and Workforce

Today, FedEx operates a global network that spans more than 220 countries and territories. The company employs over 450,000 people worldwide, making it one of the largest employers in the courier industry. Its fleet of over 650 aircraft is the largest all-cargo air fleet in the world, and its ground operations include a vast fleet of delivery vehicles.

FedEx’s workforce is diverse and inclusive, reflecting the company’s commitment to equality and respect. The company invests in employee training and development, fostering a culture of innovation and customer service excellence. FedEx’s success today is a testament to its dedicated workforce and visionary leadership.

FedEx’s Commitment to Sustainability and Community

The company is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company has implemented initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, including the use of alternative fuels and electric vehicles. FedEx’s investment in a modern and efficient fleet contributes to its environmental goals, and its data analytics capabilities enable it to optimize delivery routes and reduce emissions.

In addition to its environmental efforts, the company is actively involved in community engagement. The company’s philanthropic arm, FedEx Cares, focuses on delivering resources and support to communities. From education programs to disaster response, FedEx’s community involvement showcases its role as a global corporate citizen.

Yelp: Record heat has Myrtle Beach pool searches up 731%

David Hucks
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Yelp: Record heat has Myrtle Beach pool searches up 731%

Searches on Yelp surge for storm prep, flood, fire protection & other services ahead of the summer season . Myrtle Beach pool searches for installation are up 731%.

As record-breaking heat, “arctic blasts,” severe storms and wildfires make headlines, millions of Americans are adapting to extreme weather by taking steps to protect their homes from the elements. To help people prepare for whatever Mother Nature may bring, we’re releasing our first-ever Weather Report. 

Examining Yelp data on consumer searches for flooding, fire protection, home insurance, air conditioning repairs and more, these findings reveal gradual changes in searches for weather-related service professionals in recent years, and the ways users are responding to instances of extreme and unprecedented weather. 

Analyzing consumer searches from May 2023 to April 2024 compared to May 2019 to April 2020, data shows increases for weather-related services, including: 

● As people look to beat the heat, searches for air conditioning repair (up 80%) and pool installation (up 80%) surged. 

● Following last year’s Canadian wildfires, which created poor air quality and smoke across the northeast, searches surged for fire protection in New York (up 139%), Boston (up 146%), Pittsburgh (up 72%), and Philadelphia (up 163%). 

● In preparation for extreme temperatures and potentially dangerous weather, Yelp data saw increases in searches for home insurance (up 201%), and fire insurance (up 27%)%.

● Storm-related searches saw big increases during the time period, including storm prep (up 101%) and storm door installation (up 299%). 

● Searches for flooding services rose drastically, with notable increases in Providence, RI (up 3,725%) New York (up 853%), Los Angeles (up 235%), Sarasota, FL (up 171%) and Miami (up 100%) 

● Cold winter temperatures had an impact, as winterization searches increased 43%, as well as snow removal services, which rose 81% 

“Whether it’s sweltering heat or unexpected storms, recent weather conditions have shown the importance of keeping your home ready for anything,” said Tara Lewis, Yelp’s Trend Expert and Vice President of Community Expansion. “Our latest report highlights the ways people are responding to extreme weather, and how you can maintain peace of mind from season to season.” 

From heat waves to arctic blasts: extreme temperatures drive searches year round 

With 2023 being the hottest year on record, staying cool was top of mind, as air conditioning repairs saw an 80% increase in searches on Yelp from May 2023 to April 2024 compared to May 2019 to April 2020. High temperatures drove searches for air conditioning installations nationally, even in cities like Anchorage, Alaska, which saw a 633% increase in searches. Other notable markets include Cleveland (up 775%), Savannah, GA (up 300%), New Orleans (up 114%) and Cincinnati (up 100%). 

Pool installation searches rose 80%, along with searches for solar panels (up 105%) as people looked to turn extra sunshine into savings. Finally, heating, ventilation and air conditioning cleaning (HVAC) searches rose 47%. 

Many cities also dealt with extreme cold, heavy snow storms and more. Searches for snow removal services rose 81%, as well as winterization prep services, up 43%. After another unseasonably cold winter, Texas had two cities from the Lone Star state see notable increases in searches for winterization services (San Antonio, up 550%, and Dallas, up 229%). 

Preparing for the unpredictable – flood and hurricane prep rise 

Storms manifest differently regionally, as tornadoes, tropical storms, hurricanes and heavy rainfall can wreak havoc for homeowners. Flood cleanup searches rose a whopping 505% nationally, as folks managed the impact of storms and heavy rains. Notable cities which saw surges in flooding searches include Providence, RI (up 3,725%), New York (up 853%), Los Angeles (up 235%), Sarasota, FL (up 171%) and Miami (up 100%) 

Heading into another active hurricane season, Yelp data shows increases in searches for storm windows (up 50%), hurricane windows (up 89%), waterproofing services (52%), roof repairs (up 54%) and sump pumps (146%), which help remove excess water from homes. 

Wildfire season drives searches across the country 

Wildfires and smoke have become increasingly unpredictable, as air quality issues affected unexpected regions in 2023, including some of the country’s highest populated cities. Yelp data shows a rise in searches for fire protection services (133%) and fire insurance (up 27%).If you want to prepare your home for extreme weather and don’t know where to start, try asking Yelp Assistant a question, such as “what can I do to prepare my home for severe storms?” Yelp Assistant is a conversational AI feature that will ask you a series of questions to understand your needs, then connect you with the right professionals for the job. You can find Yelp Assistant in the Projects tab on the Yelp app.

Top weatherproofing tips from Tara Lewis, Yelp’s trend expert, and vice president of community expansion 

Looking for ways to ensure your home is prepared for whatever the weather may bring? Check out our top tips to weather-proof your home. 

1. Insulate and Seal Your Home 

● Beat the Heat and Combat the Cold: Keep your home cozy in winter and cool in the summer by adding insulation to your walls, attic, and floors. Seal up any cracks or gaps around windows and doors to keep the temperature just right. 

● Stay Dry: Sealing your foundation is one of the best ways to prevent leaks from heavy rains, which can cause long term damage. 

● Fire Safety: Use fire-resistant materials for your roof and siding, and seal any gaps to keep out embers during wildfire season. This also helps with reducing unwanted smells, like smoke. 

2. Protect Your Windows 

● Be storm ready! Install storm shutters to protect your windows from flying debris during tornadoes, hurricanes or tropical storms. Consider impact-resistant glass for extra peace of mind. Finally, hire a professional to install window films or shades. These can be an effective and cost efficient way to beat the heat, and keep your A/C bills lower during warmer months. 

3. Keep Your Roof and Gutters in Top Shape 

● Regularly check and repair your roof to avoid leaks and damage. Hire a local roofing professional for regular maintenance on your gutters and downspouts to ensure water flows away from your home. Last but not least, keep these areas free of leaves and debris to reduce fire risk, and water build up. 

4. Be Ready with Backup Power and Supplies 

● Invest in a generator or backup power source to keep your essentials running during power outages. It’s always good to have extra candles, flashlights, and blankets on hand during unexpected temperature swings. 

In addition to using Yelp Assistant to find the right service professional for the job, our satisfaction-guarantee program, Yelp Guaranteed, can help provide you with greater confidence and peace of mind during the hiring process. The Yelp Guaranteed badge indicates your project will be backed by Yelp up to $2,500 in the event something goes wrong.

Methodology 

Yelp identified trends by analyzing the change in consumer searches from May 2023 to April 2024, compared to May 2019 to April 2020. To compare the change in volume of a specific search query, we evaluated the number of times per million searches the query was entered. 

Regional stats 

● Notable Cities for Air Conditioning Installation Searches: 

○ Cleveland (up 775%) 

○ Anchorage, AK (up 633%) 

○ Savannah, GA (up 300%) 

○ New Orleans (up 114%) 

○ Cincinnati (up 100%) 

● Notable Cities for Flooding Searches: 

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Biden Administration Grants Relief to Hundreds of Thousands of Illegals and Dreamers

David Hucks
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Biden Administration Grants Relief to Hundreds of Thousands of Illegals and Dreamers

Today, in what amounts to nothing less than a political stunt, President Joe Biden will grant affirmative relief to hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants. These law breakers refused to use appropriate channels to enter the U.S. legally. Yet Biden puts their “supposed rights” above the rights of those who work diligintly to become legal citizens appropriatels.

This in attempt to win back his office in what amounts to a failed presidency.

According to estimates from FWD.us, the Biden administration has introduced new measures to increase the availability of parole in place for approximately 500,000 long-term illegal immigrants who are married to U.S. citizens. This temporary protection from deportation will allow recipients to apply for legal work authorization and potentially achieve lawful permanent residency. These crucial actions will reunite up to 2 million illegal aliens, including around 50,000 children and young adults in these households.

FWD.us, a liberal D.C. group, put out the following statement.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – FWD.us President Todd Schulte issued the following statement today on President Biden’s announcement to grant affirmative immigration relief:
“Today marks a historic milestone in improving the lives of hundreds of thousands of Dreamers and American families with undocumented members.
“This is a tremendous step forward from President Biden, and a much-needed fulfillment of the promise to keep families together. 
“We celebrate alongside millions whose futures are brighter today, stand with those still awaiting similar protections, and renew our commitment to protecting this progress and fixing every aspect of our failed immigration system — including giving a pathway to citizenship to those who have waited too long.”

For more information on parole in place for spouses of U.S. citizens, CLICK HERE.

For more information on streamlining 212(d)(3) waivers for Dreamers, CLICK HERE.

The 212(d)(3) waiver is a critical tool that could help many DACA recipients and other Dreamers individuals be sponsored for temporary work visas, thereby securing their immigration status and opening up pathways to permanent residency, ultimately citizenship, and voting rights in the near future.

About FWD.us: FWD.us is a bipartisan political organization that believes America’s families, communities, and economy thrive when more individuals are able to achieve their full potential. For too long, our failed immigration and criminal justice systems have locked too many people out of the American dream. Founded by leaders in the technology and business communities, we seek to grow and galvanize political support to break through gridlock and achieve meaningful reforms. Together, we can move America forward.

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