PRESS RELEASE
South Carolina Office of the Governor
David M. Beasley - Governor
For Immediate Release:  August 27, 1998
Contact:  Gary Karr (803) 734-9840
 
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MEDIA ADVISORY

          (Columbia)—The following is a statement from Governor David M. Beasley on Hurricane Bonnie:

     “This morning I am pleased to announce I am lifting the evacuation order for Horry County.  I have consulted with local officials and law enforcement this morning.  We believe it is safe for most residents to return to their homes and their businesses.
     Let me emphasize, however, that some areas may still be too dangerous to let people back in.  Local officials can make the decision to contain certain areas.
     We are all thankful that South Carolina was spared the worst of Bonnie’s wrath.  While we suffered some cuts and bruises, our great beaches and the Grand Strand will soon be fully open for business.
     I would like to ask South Carolinians to pray for our neighbors to the north.  Bonnie has hit North Carolina hard, and this storm continues to do damage.  I plan to call Governor Hunt soon to see what assistance South Carolina can offer.
     I will travel to Myrtle Beach later this morning to inspect the damage.
     I want to personally thank all the law enforcement officers, the National Guard troops, and the local officials for their work.
     But most importantly, I want to personally thank the people who live along the Grand Strand.  We avoided serious injuries or deaths because of their patient cooperation.  They have endured traffic, restless nights in shelters, and now they may have repairs to make.  But like true South Carolinians they have endured with grace and dignity.  I am proud to be their Governor, and more importantly, they have made me proud again to be a South Carolinian.”