🌱Did You Feel The Earthquake? + Sun Fun Annual Festival Coming Up!

Good morning, neighbors! I'm back in your inbox this morning with your new copy of the Myrtle Beach Patch newsletter. Come along to find out everything you need to know about what's happening in town, including updates on:

• There was an earthquake yesterday.
• The Sun Fun Festival is coming soon.
• Take a look at some open houses.

But first, today's weather:

Nice with plenty of sun. High: 80 Low: 61.

Big love to our local sponsors. We couldn’t keep the community informed without you!

• Sell your home quickly and for top dollar with Val Lyons, the expert realtor at CBRE in Myrtle Beach! Val has the knowledge and expertise to help you sell your property fast. And if you're struggling to sell a stagnant property, Val's virtual home staging services can make a huge difference in the amount you get for your home. Contact Val today or call 774-259-8937 to learn more and start your journey towards a successful home sale!

• Looking for a taste of Italy without leaving Myrtle Beach? Look no further than Portofino Kitchen & Wine Bar. Their authentic Italian cuisine is cooked from scratch every day, following the true simplicity of Italian tradition. Their selected wine list allows for the best pairing and overall dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for a classic pasta dish or a flavorful seafood entree, visit Portofino for a taste of Italy, minus the jet lag. Happy Hour starting 4/2, Mon-Thurs from 4pm-6pm.

Click here to get your business featured in this spot.

Here are the top stories today in Myrtle Beach:

1. A 4.5 magnitude earthquake was recorded yesterday by the United States Geological Survey approximately 540 miles away from Myrtle Beach in the Atlantic Ocean, between the Carolina coast and Bermuda. According to WMBF, "Earthquakes in the middle of the ocean can trigger fear of a possible tsunami. All the cities along the Grand Strand are certified tsunami ready, which means a comprehensive plan is in place if one may hit."(WMBF)
2. The 68th annual Sun Fun Festival is set to return to Myrtle Beach May 5-7 and will include a variety of activities including a concert from Trial By Fire, pyro jumps performed by the U.S. Army Golden Knights a festival parade and more. (WMBF)
3. If you're searching for a new house, there's a good chance you've already pored through all the online listings for your area. And while you may have learned roughly what these houses are like from the images, you just can't beat an in-person encounter with the real thing.
   For all the house hunters in the Myrtle Beach area, we’ve listed five recently listed homes, with information included on the next scheduled open house. Here is an address, photo, price and bedroom/bath information for each property listed — such as a home with 4 beds and 3 baths for $489,900, and another with 3 beds and 2 baths for $159,900. Looking for more information on one of the houses listed below? Just click on any address to learn more. Happy house hunting!(Myrtle Beach Patch)

Today in Myrtle Beach:

• World's Strongest Man (8:00 AM)
• Charles Bach Wonders! Magic & Illusion Show (7:00 PM)
• The Carolina Opry (7:00 PM)

Myrtle Beach Photo Of The Day:

Would you like to see your photo in the Myrtle Beach Daily? Send one in. Be sure to give Patch permission to republish the photo, and tell us that you own the rights to the photograph. Send your pic to karena.garrity@patch.com.

From my notebook:

• Myrtle Beach Police Department: "We celebrated CPL Balch and his retirement with a small lunch! Thank you for your service with the Myrtle Beach Police Department, you will be missed! We hope you enjoy your retirement! " (Myrtle Beach Police Department via Facebook)
• Visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: "Sometimes the best travel buddies have four legs instead of two. Where on our 60 miles do you take your four-legged travel partner?" (Visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina via Facebook)
• The Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach: "Today’s featured #PetOfTheDay is Bella! Her adoption fee is being sponsored today by Heavenly Paws Pet Crematory. Bella is a laid back and easy-going feline who loves nothing more than curling up on a cozy bed for a long nap." (The Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach via Facebook)
• Myrtle Beach Police Department: "Work At The Beach! . Apply Today at JoinMBPD.com . The City of Myrtle Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment." (Myrtle Beach Police Department via Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured events:

• Crossing Over With Psychic Medium John Edward Live! (May 17)
• Add your event

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Thursday. See you all tomorrow morning for another update!

— Karena Garrity

About me: Journalism is in my veins. I have been a community reporter for the better part of the past 20 years. I love my community and I am honored to be a part of Patch.com. You can reach me at; karena.garrity@patch.com.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Myrtle Beach Patch newsletter? Contact me at karena.garrity@patch.com