THE WEEK AHEAD

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Bear hunt season applications ready

Hunters in Georgetown, Horry and Williamsburg counties can now get the applications for the new coastal black bear season.

Applications, which are due Friday, are available online at: www.dnr.sc.gov/bearhunting, at S.C. Department of Natural Resources offices or by calling 803-734-3886. The nonrefundable application fee is $10.

Those selected may purchase a tag at a cost of $25 for residents and $100 for nonresidents. Nonresidents also must provide evidence of purchasing a hunting license and big game permit in order to apply. Only those selected by a random drawing will be able to purchase a tag and attempt to take a bear. Ten tags will be issued for each county to applicants who are randomly selected.

Alabama Theatre up for CMA award

Check out how your favorite country music artists – and a local venue – fare in one of the genre’s biggest awards shows this week.

Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood will host the 46th annual Country Music Association Awards, which air from 8-11 p.m. Thursday on ABC.

The Alabama Theatre in Barefoot Landing is in the running along with host Bridgestone Arena and historic Ryman for “Venue of the Year” in the association’s SRO – StandingRoom Only – Awards, for touring industry honors.

Prep football playoffs begin Friday

High school football playoffs begin Friday for the lower three classes – AAA, AA and A. The area has seven teams slated to play in postseason contests Friday, while Conway plays at Carolina Forest in the regular-season finale for both AAAA schools.

Sessions debuts for Bobcats; NBA tips off

Myrtle Beach native Ramon will be close to home for the first time in his NBA career this season. He begins the season as a member of the Charlotte Bobcats, whose first game is Friday. The season opens up on Tuesday night.