As the weather gets colder and the leaves begin to fall, the outlook for beachside winter activities seems a bit bleak. But, coming soon to a mall near you is the area’s first indoor public ice skating rink!  Next Friday, on November 14, the Myrtle Beach Mall will have an ice skating rink. The opening of the rink equals another season of fun and good times available in Myrtle Beach.

The 1,600 square foot ice rink will be located in the Cinema Court area, directly in front of Carmike 12 theaters. Skating tickets will be $10 per person for two hours of skating time on the all-natural ice with skates included in the ticket price.

Professional skaters Tricia Klocke and Carla Ericson will attend the grand opening as well as an ice hockey exhibition by current and former Coastal Carolina University ice hockey players, and a special appearance by an ice skating princess.

According to published reports, “This ice skating rink is the beginning of many exciting plans for Myrtle Beach Mall,” said Allan Davidov, Managing Member of Misuma Holdings, LLC. “We look forward to bringing a local flavor to the mall through new retail, dining and entertainment offerings.”

In a show of overwhelming support, citizens of South Carolina voted to make charity raffles legal. A constitutional amendment making the change was approved on November 4, with 83 percent of the vote. State lawmakers must ratify the amendment in their next legislative session.

Though church raffles, school raffles, and other charity raffles are commonplace, the only legal raffle currently is the state lottery. Enforcement depends largely on whether someone complains to police.  However, we say that any way to give community help & hope is a good thing!

With voters’ approval, a law passed last year that lays out how schools, churches and other nonprofits can legally hold raffles. However, raffle rules will  include limits on their frequency and ticket costs.

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The House of Blues introduces its new Gospel Brunch experience which includes local talent performing both traditional and contemporary Gospel songs personally selected by legendary gospel producer and artist, Kirk Franklin.

Before and during the show, an amazing all-you-can-eat buffet featuring breakfast favorites plus tender carving stations, southern specialties and mouth-watering desserts is available. And, don’t miss the signature chicken and waffles! And if the spirit hits you, you’re invited to end up on stage waiving a napkin and dancing off some of that delicious cuisine! This is a great event for large parties and for the entire family.

The Gospel Brunch takes place every Sunday. This is a great event for groups and for the entire family. Continuous seating is available every Sunday morning from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Reservations recommended, call 843-913-3746. Tickets: adults – $29; children aged 7-12,  $14.50; and children 6 and under,  admitted for free.

The House of Blues is located at 4640 U.S. 17 South in North Myrtle Beach in the Barefoot Landing complex.

The Myrtle Beach American Culinary Federation is sponsoring its annual Souper Supper  on November 2, from noon to  3 p.m. at Valor Park at Market Common.  Proceeds from the MBACF event will benefit ACF education and students at the Horry Georgetown Technical College and Horry County Schools Academy for Technology and Academics with scholarships to further their culinary careers.

The public is invited to culinary competition and tasting of event winner fares. Tickets can be purchased online with special admission and raffle entry afforded to online ticket purchasers. Tickets cost $10 for adult admission and $5 for children.

The Souper Supper in the fall features soups and the Spring Sensation during the springtime features salads and desserts. Both endeavors are successful and only made possible by a local attending audience of enthusiastic foodies interested in sampling and discovering the talented chefs and generous restaurants that donate their own products and time during these two events.

For more information visit www.myrtlebeachacf.com

Santee Cooper is showing appreciation for its customers. With an enlightening gesture, Santee Cooper is encouraging  customers to save money and to protect the environment.

During its customer appreciation week, The electric company is offering two free LED light bulbs to residential account holders until supplies run out.

Santee Cooper account holders can pick up two free light bulbs at the Carolina Forest, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Conway, or Garden City office.

To get the bulbs, you’ll need to know the account holder’s phone number or social security number.