‘Just thought it was a brilliant idea’: Myrtle Beach brewery participates in vaccine campaign

MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - South Carolina health officials have partnered with state breweries to get more people vaccinated against COVID-19.

That includes one brewery here in Myrtle Beach.

Many people came to Tidal Creek Brewhouse in The Market Common Saturday to get their COVID-19 shot and a free beer.

The brewery opened its doors like any other day, but Saturday was special. They had a vaccination clinic open for those who have not gotten their shot yet. Dara Sawczuk, co-owner of Tidal Creek Brewhouse, can’t be happier to help the community.

“Just thought it was a brilliant idea. It will make it very convenient for our community and our regulars to just come to Tidal Creek and get their vaccine and enjoy a beer,” said Sawczuk.

Many brewhouses partnered with the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control for the “Shot and a Chaser” campaign, offering a free brew to encourage people to get vaccinated.

DHEC officials said those between the ages of 20-24 are the least vaccinated group in SC.

For Edward Vehec, Saturday’s brewery clinic served as a relief.

“Feels good, glad I finally got it; I waited a little too long,”

It was long enough that he contracted COVID-19 two weeks ago.

“It was all around nasty to me. It was like a really bad cold and the cough,” said Vehec “Nausea to think about eating. I didn’t want to go through it again.”

Vehec got a vaccine and as a reward a free beer to celebrate.

“I don’t know about you, but I want to get back into going to concerts again,” said Vehec.

DHEC and many breweries like Tidal Creek will continue to encourage people to get vaccinated.

“Clearly is a smart thing to do to get vaccinated not only to protect yourself but to help the community as a whole,” said Sawczuk.

The Shot and a Chaser events continue through June 25. For a list of participating breweries, click here.

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