Ray Tanner Named Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce 2011 Ambassador of the Year

Gamecock Baseball Head Coach to Receive Chamber’s Highest Individual Honor

 COLUMBIA, S.C. – Ray Tanner, head coach of the University of South Carolina’s back-to-back NCAA National Champion baseball team, has been selected as the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce 2011 Ambassador of the Year. With the ambassador selection, Tanner will be recognized for his work with the university, USA Baseball and his personal foundation, which has brought national and prestigious recognition to the entire Greater Columbia region.

Tanner will be honored at the Columbia Chamber Annual Gala on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2011, at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

“I am honored and humbled to be named Ambassador of the Year by the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce,” said Tanner.  ”Columbia and the entire Midlands community is a big part of why Carolina baseball has succeeded, our championships belong to the entire Columbia and University family.”

The Columbia Chamber Ambassador of the Year is one of the Chamber’s highest honors presented to a local individual. The Ambassador of the Year is someone who exemplifies outstanding business ethics and has taken responsibility for influencing the positive promotion and preservation of the Greater Columbia area. The title is conferred annually on a leader who serves as a role model for business involvement in the community and who has contributed to the image of the local community. Previous Ambassadors of the Year have included Ed Sellers, Dr. Andrew Sorensen, Cathy Novinger and Jim Apple as well as former head coach of the University of South Carolina’s basketball team Frank McGuire.

“With his enthusiasm for promoting the Greater Columbia region and dedication to making the area a better place to live, work and play, Ray Tanner truly is a shining example of what an ambassador should be,” said Mike Brenan, chair of the board for the Great Columbia Chamber of Commerce and president of BB&T South Carolina.  “Ray’s passion for being involved throughout the region is undeniable, and the legacy he has left within the community is inspiring.”

Within the Greater Columbia community, Tanner is highly respected for his leadership, corporate responsibility and public service. A three-time National Coach of the Year and Southeastern Conference Coach of the Year, Tanner has just completed his 15th year as head coach at the University of South Carolina. Tanner has established one of the premier programs in all of college baseball with milestones and accomplishments piling up each season. Tanner’s 15th season with the Garnet & Black culminated in Omaha, Neb., this summer where the Gamecocks won the 2011 National Championship becoming only the ninth repeat champion in College World Series history.

Through his leadership, Carolina was the first team to go 10-0 in the NCAA Tournament. The Gamecocks, who entered the tournament as the No. 4 national seed, established NCAA records with 16 consecutive postseason wins and 11 consecutive wins in the College World Series.

Tanner has also helped put Columbia on the international stage. He has served five stints with the USA National Baseball Team, including in 2003 as head coach. He was named the U.S. National Coach of the Year that season. Tanner served as an auxiliary coach under Tommy Lasorda for the 2000 Olympic Team that won a gold medal at the XXVII Olympiad in Sydney, Australia. He was also an assistant under former LSU coach Skip Bertman with the 1995 and 1996 USA teams that culminated in a bronze medal win at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, Ga. Tanner’s first stint with USA Baseball came as an assistant coach to the national team in the summer of 1993.

But Tanner’s accomplishments and accolades extend far beyond the baseball diamond. He is well known for his community philanthropy. In 2005, Tanner, along with his wife Karen, started the Ray Tanner Foundation which is dedicated to the betterment of economically and medically disadvantaged children and their families. The foundation supports organizations which care for seriously ill children, the homeless and other charitable causes.

Grant recipients have included the Family Shelter, the Oliver Gospel Mission, the Cooperative Ministry, the Nurturing Center, the South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families, Parenting Partners, Palmetto Place Children’s Emergency Shelter, and others.

Among its projects are The Ray Tanner Home Run, a premier annual running and walking event that brings together people of all levels to help improve the lives of disadvantaged children and their families, while promoting the benefits of healthy and active lifestyles.

Tanner also is donating 100 percent of his proceeds from Carolina Baseball: Pressure Makes Diamonds, a limited edition, leather-bound book detailing the history of Carolina baseball, to help build a “Miracle League Field” in Columbia where any child can play baseball regardless of any physical handicap. Tanner wrote the foreword to the book.

The Miracle League now serves more than 200,000 children and young adults with disabilities. The success of the Miracle League has been chronicled on NBC, ABC, and FOX. There are 240 Miracle League Organizations across the country, as well as Puerto Rico, Canada and Australia.

The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala will be held on Sept. 22, 2011, at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. The event is open to the public and members of the media. For ticket and sponsorship information, please visit www.columbiachamber.com.

About the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, membership-driven organization comprised of 1,500 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals in Calhoun, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lexington, Newberry and Richland counties. The Columbia Chamber serves as the voice of its members and the business community at large on matters of economic, educational, social, cultural and political concern, as well as supports and promotes the success of its members through networking, professional development, advocacy and leadership. The organization has represented the interests of the local business community since 1902.

To become a member or to learn more about the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, as well as its events, programs and initiatives, visit http://www.ColumbiaChamber.com.

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AAF District 3 Holds 2011 Leadership Conference in Famously Hot Columbia, SC

The American Advertizing Federation (AAF) will hold its District 3 Leadership Conference in Columbia, SC on Aug. 5-6.

Conference attendees will learn first hand how to make the most of their professional networks while linking up with  colleagues from other AAF chapters in
the Carolinas and Vi rgi n i a .

Speakers/Topics include:

Applying Inbound Marketing Principles| Keely Saye KEELYSAYE.COM

Certified Inbound Marketing Specialist Keely Saye provides simple solutions to the challenges of our ever-changing digital marketplace. She founded KeelySaye.com out of a passion for learning inbound marketing strategies and social media concepts.

What Makes You So Special? | Dan Black WESKILL.COM

Dan Black, Director eLearning Services, guides organizations, companies, managers and associates on how to maximize sales performance, increase profitability, build customer loyalty and effectively lead their human
resources to full potential.

Most recently, AAF of the Midlands was named National Club of the Year by the American Advertising Federation.

Each year, the AAF honors its top clubs for exceptional performance in eight criteria: advertising education, communications, diversity, government relations, club operations, membership, programs and public service. From these top clubs, a National Club of the Year is selected for each of five divisions.

AAF of the Midlands earned National Club of the Year honors in its division by placing first nationally in programs; second in both membership development, and diversity and multicultural initiatives; and third in both public service and advertising education. AAF of the Midlands President Andrew Evans also was named President of the Year.

For more information on the event visit the AAF of the Midlands Web site.

SOUTH CAROLINA-ISRAEL COLLABORATION VISITS THE GREATER COLUMBIA REGION

The South Carolina-Israel Collaboration— a major initiative of the state’s research universities, industries, and economic development agencies as well as the Israeli government—will be announced during a series of events during the week of July 27^th in the Upstate, Midlands, and Low Country.

Coordinated by the American-Israel Chamber of Commerce, Southeast Region (AICC), the Collaboration is supported through a grant by Charleston-based The InterTech Group.   According to the organizers, it is being built around six identified clusters of strength in South Carolina and Israel where there is the strong potential of synergy and relevance to businesses and researchers in the state:  Biomedical, Advanced Materials, Sustainable Systems, Transportation, Defense / Security, and Insurance / Health IT.

Through this series of education events, the Collaboration’s partners will share their plans to strengthen South Carolina’s economy through business and research partnerships with Israel; examples of how Israel has become the “Start-up Nation” with the world’s top entrepreneurial innovation economy; case studies of an Israeli company establishing an operation in the state or a South Carolina company finding success in the Israeli market; collaborative research between South Carolina and Israeli universities;  and a week-long economic and trade mission to Israel in November for a delegation of South Carolina’s industry and scientific leaders.  These events will be held at the Greenville Chamber of Commerce on July 27 from 8:00 am to 10:00 am; at the Columbia Chamber of Commerce on July 27 from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm; and at the SCRA in Charleston on July 28 from 10:00 am to noon.

“South Carolina does not have much recognition in Israel, but that is going to change very soon.  I have never seen such an outstanding group of universities, economic development entities, and private sector working so well together, and I’m confident that industries and researchers in the state will embrace this dynamic Collaboration that shows so much potential,” said AICC President Tom Glaser.  The American-Israel Chamber of Commerce (www.aiccse.org) is a bi-national business association with the mission of increasing economic development by fostering understanding, cooperation, and business relationships between Israel and the Southeast.  Since its founding in 1992, the Chamber has been involved in completed transactions valued at almost $1 billion, creating jobs and benefiting the economies of both Israel and the Southeast.

In addition to AICC, partners in this effort include Clemson University, the University of South Carolina, and the Medical University of South Carolina; the Chambers of Commerce in Greenville, Columbia, and Charleston; the Jewish Federations in the state; the US–Israel Science and Technology Foundation; New Carolina; SCRA; the Charleston Regional Development Alliance; the American Israel Educational Institute;  the Consulate General of Israel to the Southeast; and the Israel Economic Mission.

“From our company’s experiences, Israel is an amazing country in which to do business and find innovation.  Israel is already an important trade partner for our state, and we’ve been impressed by the business and research potential that can elevate the economies of both South Carolina and Israel,” said Jonathan Zucker, President of The InterTech Group who is chairman of the South Carolina-Israel Collaboration

Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce and USC Career Center to Host Opportunity Knocks Part-time Job Fair August 16

The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce will partner with the University of South Carolina Career Center to host Opportunity Knocks Part-time Job Fair. The fair will be held from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011 in the Russell House Ballroom, located at 1400 Greene St. Registration is free for employers looking to fill part-time or work-study positions. Registration deadline is Aug. 1, 2011.

“Our partnership with the USC Career Center is extremely important to the Columbia Chamber,” said C. Grant Jackson, senior vice president of community development at the Great Columbia Chamber of Commerce. “Presenting local opportunities to our students will only better enable us to retain local talent.”

The USC Career Center will also host two other fairs later this fall including:

Science, Engineering and Technology (S.E.T.) Fair Fall 2011
September 28, 2011 | 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Career Fest Fall
Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2011 | 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

“The Part-Time Job Fair at the University of South Carolina is a great opportunity to choose from more than 800 motivated job seekers. Students attending the event possess a wide range of skills and academic backgrounds to fit all employers’ needs,” said Tom Halasz, director of the USC Career Center. “This is the one event to meet every organization’s part-time openings!”

In the spirit of continued partnership, with a focus on regionalism and talent retention, the Columbia Chamber and the USC Career Center will organize a region-wide career fair in May 2012, for all area colleges, universities and employers.

For additional information email career@sc.edu or visit:

Employer Registration

Event Information

Helen Baldwin to Lead $1.1-Million Dollar Chamber Campaign Drive

 The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce has announced its 10^th annual Total Resource Campaign – Playing for Keeps.  The 12-week membership and sponsorship drive, benefiting the many programs of the Columbia Chamber, will kick off August 18. Helen Baldwin, property manager with NAI Avant, will lead the charge in raising $1.1 million dollars.

The 2010 Total Resource Campaign, lead by David Campbell of Chernoff Newman, surpassed its record breaking goal of $1.1 million with the support of more than 100 volunteers.

The 2011 Columbia Chamber Total Resource Campaign will be led by a team of vice chairs.

Team members include:

Campaign Co-Chair
David Anderson | First Citizens Bank

Campaign Vice Chair
Scott Blackmon | Blackmon Farms (former campaign Chair)
Todd Wagstaff | Comfort Services (former campaign Chair)
Tara Williams | AllSouth Federal Credit Union
Jennifer Suber | Suber Consulting

This year’s campaign will include reward sessions at various local businesses that will highlight campaign volunteers’ success. Those campaign volunteers that reach this year’s sales goal will be rewarded with an all inclusive trip for two to a tropical destination in January 2012.

To participate in the 2011 Total Resource Campaign – Playing for Keeps or to make a contribution, please contact Columbia Chamber Campaign Manager, Shannon Viera at 803.733.1116 or sviera@columbiachamber.com.

For more information on the 2011 Total Resource Campaign – Playing for Keeps, visit our Facebook page.

Member News | July 11 – July 15

NAI Avant CONSUMMATES LEASE FOR FIREHOUSE SUBS

ON FOREST DRIVE IN COLUMBIA, SC

NAI Avant is pleased to announce that Walter Monteith, and James C. Harrison, III, CCIM, members of the firm’s Brokerage Team, recently completed a lease transaction for Firehouse Subs. Located in a portion of the former Blockbuster Video space at 3250 Forest Drive in Columbia, SC, the Firehouse Subs space comprises approximately 2,620 square feet leaving a remaining 3,900 square feet available for lease. Monteith represented the tenant, Firehouse Subs and Harrison represented the landlord, Forest Sunnyside, LLC. The transaction amount is undisclosed.

About NAI Avant
NAI Avant’s commercial real estate business is one of the largest in the Southeast.  With over 65 professionals, the firm provides comprehensive brokerage, leasing, development, property and project management services.  For nearly three consecutive decades, the group has had more of its brokerage professionals recognized as top producers or recipients of the top awards than any other firm in South Carolina. As a member of the NAI Global Network, NAI Avant is affiliated with over 350 offices and 5,000 professionals in 55 countries across the globe.  NAI Avant’s Property and Project Management Group currently manages a multi-million square foot portfolio of properties across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. Through its Avant Healthcare Division, the firm provides comprehensive services to hospitals, clinics, and physician groups. NAI Avant, founded in 1966, is headquartered in Columbia, SC with an office in Charleston, SC. Find out more about NAI Avant and its services at www.naiavant.com.

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David Zannella Joins Columbia Conference Center as Food and Beverage Director

 In June 2011, Columbia Conference Center welcomed David Zannella to their team. A graduate of Tompkins Cortland College in Dryden, New York, David will serve as the conference center’s Food and Beverage Director. He has more than 14 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, and a lifelong love of cooking inspired in part by his Italian heritage.

Columbia Conference Center president Mike DuBose said, “David’s pleasant personality, talent, and experience make him a great addition to our close-knit team and an asset to our customers.”

Columbia Conference Center was built in 2003 and is part of the DuBose family of companies. Mike DuBose is a monthly columnist for several South Carolina business magazines and blogs.

For more information about David Zannella or Columbia Conference Center, visit http://www.columbiameetings.com or call 803-772-9811. Business articles by Mike DuBose can be read at www.mikedubose.com.

 

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COUNTDOWN TO KINDERGARTEN KICKS OFF AT EDVENTURE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Eighth Annual Educational Event Offers Free Admission

 EdVenture Children’s Museum and The United Way of the Midlands invite all South Carolina rising kindergartners and their families to the eighth annual Countdown to Kindergarten Celebration from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 12. The celebration will provide parents with a helpful school readiness checklist of things children need to know before starting kindergarten such as knowing their name, address and phone number; tying their shoes; washing their hands; waiting their turn; and sharing with others. Families can connect with representatives from school districts, state agencies and community organizations to learn about educational, health and community resources available to them, while health personnel will be on hand to provide free dental and vision screenings.

The evening will feature FREE admission to the museum, costumed characters, games, face painting, karaoke, information booths and resources for parents on keeping kids safe and healthy. In addition, rising kindergartners can practice boarding a school bus and carrying a lunch tray.

“This annual event is EdVenture’s way of helping parents help their children make the transition from a home or child care center environment to the classroom a little easier, said Nikki Manning, director of education at EdVenture. When children begin kindergarten healthy and ready to learn, their future opportunities for success are much greater.”

Additional support for Countdown to Kindergarten is provided by the South Carolina Dental Association, AARP-SC, Wal-Mart, the Kroger Foundation and WLTX News 19.

About EdVenture
The mission of EdVenture is to inspire children to experience the joy of learning. EdVenture is dedicated to lifelong learning through its 92,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor interactive exhibit space and in its educational outreach programs and after school programs. The museum has welcomed visitors from all 50 states and 18 foreign countries, creating shared experiences and memories for families learning together. For more information about EdVenture, visit www.edventure.org or call (803) 779-3100.

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 Collins & Lacy Attorney Named President–Elect of the S.C. Bar Foundation

 Collins & Lacy, P.C. is pleased to announce that Jack D. Griffeth has been named President–Elect of the South Carolina Bar Foundation Board of Directors. Griffeth begins his term July 1, 2011.

The South Carolina Bar Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the South Carolina Bar. Its mission is to fund the advancement of justice by improving access, education and accountability.  Since 1987, the Foundation has awarded more than $43 million to various legal-related organizations that work on behalf of the justice community. The Foundation is governed by a 14-member Board of Directors.

Jack Griffeth, a shareholder with Collins & Lacy, practices in the Greenville office. His 34-year practice of law has focused on defense trial work, representing employers in employment related litigation and mediation.

Along with being a tireless advocate for the South Carolina Bar Foundation, Griffeth is the 2011 President of the Greenville Bar Association, Secretary/Treasurer for the S.C. Bar Foundation Board of Directors and a member of the House of Delegates for the 13^th Judicial Circuit.  He is a past member of the South Carolina Bar’s nominations committee and past-president of the Bar’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Council.  Jack is a certified mediator by the South Carolina Bar and speaks frequently on the subject of mediation.

About Collins & Lacy, P.C.
In 2010, Collins & Lacy, P.C., celebrates 26 years of providing legal services to South Carolina.  With offices in Columbia, Greenville and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the firm’s primary focus is defense litigation, representing local, regional and national clients in the areas of construction, employment law, hospitality/retail & entertainment law, insurance/bad faith, products liability, professional liability, transportation and workers’ compensation.   Collins & Lacy is committed to upholding the highest standards for integrity, civility and community service. For information, visit www.collinsandlacy.com.

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Dennis Corporation Names Mo Denny as New CFO

 Dennis Corporation is proud to announce that Mr. Morgan “Mo” Denny has been named Chief Financial Officer for Dennis Corporation. Mr. Denny will oversee the day-to-day operations of the accounting department, including, financial management, accounts receivable, accounts payable, monthly financial statements, payroll, and human resources.

Excited to join Dennis Corporation, Mr. Denny looks forward to moving Dennis Corporation from a very good company to a great company. He stated, “I look forward to working for Dennis Corporation in this capacity. Dennis Corporation’s success over the last six years has been remarkable, and I am pleased to have the opportunity to assist the company with continued financial growth into the future.”

Mr. Denny joins Dennis Corporation with a wealth of relevant experience. Most recently, he served as a Financial Manager at the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) where he was involved in all the financial operations and decisions throughout the last 7 years. In addition to his work at SCDOT, Mr. Denny also served as Senior Financial Analyst for Parsons Brinckerhoff, one of the world’s leading planning, engineering, programming, engineering, and construction management organizations. Among his accomplishments was his work with the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) where he acted as the primary financial consultant on the Construction and Resource Management (CRM) contract to accelerate road and bridge projects, including the new Copper River Bridge in Charleston, SC.   Additionally, Mr. Denny is also retired from the United States Army with 26 years of service. He culminated his career with the Army as the Chief Financial Officer for the Army National Guard where he successfully managed a $5.5 billion budget to maximize readiness for 2,000 Army Guard units in 54 states and territories.

Mr. Dan Dennis, President of Dennis Corporation, stated, “Now is a very exciting time for Mo to join Dennis Corporation. Our company has been profitable every year we have been in business, which includes the longest and most severe recession in American history, and we need to continue that success in spite of a persistent soft economy. Through my past experience working with Mo since 1999, I can attest to his strong financial leadership, and I am confident that he will be able to build upon our solid foundation.”

Dennis Corporation is a licensed civil engineering, surveying, and construction management firm. Dennis Corporation’s specific fields of expertise include water, sewer, roads, bridges, buildings, airports and other infrastructure.

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EDVENTURE PRESIDENT AND CEO ELECTED TO BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE ASSOCIATION OF CHILDREN’S MUSEUMS

 EdVenture Children’s Museum is proud to announce the election of Catherine Wilson Horne, president and CEO of EdVenture, to the board of directors of the Association of Children’s Museums for a two-year term.  The Association of Children’s Museums provides leadership, professional development, advocacy and resources for its member organizations and individuals. With more than 30 years of museum experience, Horne joins this international board at an exciting time of growth for children’s museums worldwide with more than 35 million annual visitors to nearly 350 museums in 22 countries.  Serving on the ACM Board is an opportunity to share individual perspective and skills with a collegial and committed group to further ACM’s mission.

About EdVenture Children’s Museum
The mission of EdVenture is to inspire children, youth, and the adults who care about them to experience the joy of learning. EdVenture is dedicated to lifelong learning through its 92,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor interactive exhibit space and in its educational outreach programs and after school programs. The museum has welcomed visitors from all 50 states and 18 foreign countries, creating shared experiences and memories for families learning together. For more information about EdVenture, visit www.edventure.org or call (803) 779-3100.

About Association of Children’s Museums
ACM is a professional service organization for children’s museums around the world. ACM’s mission is to build the capacity of children’s museums to serve as town squares for children and families where play inspires creativity and lifelong learning. There are approximately 400 children’s museums internationally. Children’s museums annually reach more than 31 million children and families. For links to ACM’s international list of museums and more information about InterActivity 2010, visit www.ChildrensMuseums.org.

Columbia Chamber, Partners Presents Health Care Heroes Awards Program

The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce and Chamber member, Spirit Telecom, are proud to partner with the Columbia Regional Business Report for the Health Care Heroes awards program. The awards, which honor people and organizations that a have a passion for health care and a compassion for patients, will be presented during a dinner on Sept. 29, 2011.

Winners also will be profiled in the Oct. 31st issue of the Business Report.

Categories Include:     
Volunteer
Community Outreach
First Responder
Nurse
Physician
Health Care Researcher
Health Care Professional

Deadline for nominations is Aug. 12, 2011.

Click here to nominate.

Note from CRBR: We encourage nominees from all types of health care providers – hospitals, long-term care facilities, assisted living facilities, home care, hospice care, emergency care and community programs. Please review the categories and place your nominee in the most appropriate category, regardless of his or her health care facility association.

Northeast Area Council Host Mini Expo

The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce Northeast Area Council will host its Annual Mini Expo from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Aug 25, 2011. The event, held at the Village at Sandhill, will give local business people a chance to network and develop contacts from the surrounding areas and find new business and investment opportunities.

Since its creation in 2005, the Northeast Area Council has served as an umbrella for businesses in the Northeast and beyond.  The Council takes pride in building strong relationships within the community and fostering business of all sizes.  The Northeast Area Council works cohesively with the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce to ensure meaningful networking opportunities and consistent execution for creative solutions.

To register for the event, contact Lynn Turbeville at 803.733.1128 or lturbeville@columbiachamber.com.

About the Northeast Area Council
The Northeast office, located at the Village At Sandhill, offers monthly opportunities for building rapport and strategic networking through your Columbia Chamber membership.  Business@Sunrise meets at 7:30 a.m. the last Thursday of every month and is held at Piccadilly Cafeteria (Columbia Place Mall) on Two Notch Road. The event includes networking, engaging speakers and breakfast.  This is a great opportunity to connect with more than 120 business people every month.  Business After Hours is held at 5:30 p.m.every 3rd Tuesday of the month at various locations.

For more information visit www.columbiachamber.com.

Member News | July 4 – July 8

Free medical event coming to the Midlands
Dental care provided for 32 hours straight

Columbia, S.C. –   Adults who do not have access to health care services can receive free medical, eye and dental care August 5 and 6 at the Carolina Coliseum in Columbia.

A community-wide effort will bring together providers from throughout the state to present SC Mission 2011: Midlands. Working together, licensed health practitioners will provide dental, medical, and eye care services to underserved or uninsured adults on a first-come, first-served basis. Behavioral health services, sexually transmitted disease counseling and patient education on the most common chronic health conditions will also be available.

A number of community providers, including Access Health SC, BlueCross BlueShield Foundation, DHEC, Fairfield Memorial Hospital, Lexington Medical Center, Palmetto Health, Providence Hospitals, South Carolina Hospital Association, South Carolina Optometric Physicians Association, United Way of the Midlands, the University of South Carolina and Welvista are also providing support.

The sponsors expect more than 1000 volunteers—including physicians, nurses, dentists, optometrists, pharmacy and lab specialists, medical and nursing students and lay persons—to participate in the two-day event. Some volunteers will also assist with patient registration and records. As of now, general volunteer responsibilities are covered. Interpreters and clinical volunteers are still needed and anyone interested should go to www.uway.org/volunteer to register.

Medical and eye care will be available from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. on Aug. 5 and 6 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Aug. 6. Dental services will be available for a continuous 32 hours from 6 a.m. on Aug. 5 until 2 p.m. on Aug. 6. Persons seeking services are encouraged to get there as early as possible, bring water and be patient.

While providers will see as many persons as possible, organizers expect the demand to exceed capacity. This event is planned specifically for adults because services and coverage for children are more readily available in the community.

“There is an enormous unmet demand for health services among the underserved and uninsured of our state,” said Vince Ford, Senior Vice President of Palmetto Health Community Services.” Our goal is to provide assistance to those in need; we are determined to see as many people as possible.”

This is the second year a community-wide event has been planned. Last year, AccessHealth SC and the South Carolina Optometric Physicians Association joined with providers in the Upstate to provide SC Mission 2010: Greenville at the Carolina First Center in Greenville.

SC Mission 2011: Midlands is partnering with hospital-based clinics, federally-qualified health centers and other free clinics to encourage follow-up care, said Melanie Matney, AccessHealth SC executive director. 

“Beyond the care they receive on these two days, we want people to walk away from this event with better avenues to continuing care,” said Matney. “Every South Carolinian needs a medical home where they can get consistent proactive care rather than depending on the local hospital emergency room.”

About AccessHealth SC
Administered by the South Carolina Hospital Association with financial support from The Duke Endowment, AccessHealth SC works to create and sustain coordinated, data-driven community-based networks of care that provide medical homes and ensure timely, affordable, high quality health care services for low-income uninsured people in South Carolina. For more information, visit www.accesshealthsc.net.

 

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Steve Rao, Alphanumeric Systems, Inc. business development manager, works with NC REAL Enterprises to stimulate entrepreneurship among rural N.C. youth

RALEIGH, N.C. — Alphanumeric Systems, Inc. is proud to commend the accomplishments of one of its own: business development manager Steve Rao has been named the newest member of the NC REAL Enterprises Board of Directors. He began his three-year term on June 29.

Rao joined the Alphanumeric team in January, 2011. In his time with the 32 year-old IT services company, Rao has been able to effectively steer new business opportunities to the company, leveraging the broad network he built through his experience as a 2010 candidate for Wake County Commissioner, and as an entrepreneur (He founded the sports management company TSG Academies, now run by Tim Wilkison Academies). In his role with NC REAL Enterprises, Rao will help to inspire entrepreneurial spirit among mostly rural youth, extending his expertise to the next generation.

“I am honored to spend the next few years working as an NC REAL board member,” Rao says. “I hope to help create jobs in rural North Carolina by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship throughout our state, and by helping our youth aspire to be the generation which leads us back to economic prosperity.”

NC REAL Enterprises’ interim executive director, Dr. Eleanor Herndon, looks forward to the entrepreneurial insight Rao will bring to the organization. “NC REAL is a 25 year-old nonprofit governed by a Board of Directors that represent all geographic areas of the state, who are interested in entrepreneurship education among youth and adults, who believe that innovative thinkers are critical to job creation, and who support our work in the most rural areas of the state,” she says. “As an entrepreneur, Steve Rao will add value to our board and our organization, and we are pleased he has accepted this invitation.”

Alphanumeric is proud to support Rao in his new role at NC REAL Enterprises as part of an ongoing commitment to serving the community and encouraging employees to do likewise. Whether organizing office-wide food drives for organizations like Raleigh’s Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, or leading teams at the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s annual Walk to Cure Diabetes, Alphanumeric aims to engage with organizations dedicated to improving our communities and our world. Our employees volunteer for causes including animal rescue, cancer research, and community outreach.

About Alphanumeric
Alphanumeric Systems, Inc. is a world-class technology provider with core strengths in the efficient delivery of comprehensive business technology solutions. The privately held, woman-owned enterprise has served pharmaceutical, state and local government, education, healthcare and professional services clients for more than three decades. Alphanumeric has received numerous awards and recognition, including 15 years as a CRN Magazine VAR 500 Solution Provider, Triangle Business Journal’s Top IT Networking Company, and many others.

Alphanumeric maintains its corporate headquarters in Raleigh, N.C., and provides its full-range of services from satellite offices in North Carolina, South Carolina, Pennsylvania and the United Kingdom. Further information about Alphanumeric is available at www.alphanumeric.com.

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THOMAS OTIS, CCIM JOINS NAI AVANT IN CHARLESTON

 

Charleston, S.C. (July 7, 2011) – NAI Avant is pleased to announce the addition of Thomas Otis, CCIM to its Brokerage Group in Charleston. Otis began his real estate career in 1994, and specializes in office and investment properties. Over the last 18 years, Otis has gained extensive experience in banking, commercial real estate brokerage and development, operations management and financial management.  He also holds the prestigious Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation. During his real estate career, he has been involved in transactions or debt financings in excess of $110 Million. Otis received his Undergraduate degree from Washington and Lee University and his Masters degree from The Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University.

 

About NAI Avant

NAI Avant’s commercial real estate business is one of the largest in the Southeast.  With over 65 professionals, the firm provides comprehensive brokerage, leasing, development, property and project management services.  For nearly three consecutive decades, the group has had more of its brokerage professionals recognized as top producers or recipients of the top awards than any other firm in South Carolina. As a member of the NAI Global Network, NAI Avant is affiliated with over 350 offices and 5,000 professionals in 55 countries across the globe.  NAI Avant’s Property and Project Management Group currently manages a multi-million square foot portfolio of properties across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. Through its Avant Healthcare Division, the firm provides comprehensive services to hospitals, clinics, and physician groups. NAI Avant, founded in 1966, is headquartered in Columbia, SC with an office in Charleston, SC. Find out more about NAI Avant and its services at http://www.naiavant.com

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Marathon Staffing Offers Solutions to the Columbia Area

“We Keep Your Business Running”

 

Marathon Staffing provides customized staffing solutions for all your hiring needs such as sourcing, screening, and staffing.  With over 25 year’s experience, Marathon has dedicated our efforts to working hand-in-hand with our clients to deliver qualified and capable personnel.  We offer various types of employment – Temporary, Seasonal, Direct Hires, Contract Hires, Payroll Transfers as well as On-Site Staffing Programs.  We are currently providing staffing services to the State of South Carolina in two capacities:  Custodial Support and approved vendor for IT personnel.

 

Our areas of service extend but not limited to:

• Manufacturing
• Convention & Hospitality
• Call Center
• Distribution & Warehouse
• Medical & Dental Administration
• Clerical & Administrative
• Horticulture
• Janitorial

Located in the heart of the Vista, in downtown Columbia, we welcome you to stop in and see us to find out how we can assist you in first-class staffing solutions. Our more than qualified staff is always ready and willing to let our resources and experience help you meet all your business needs.

We are proud to be in Columbia and look forward to building a networking business relationship that offers unparalleled service with satisfaction guaranteed.  After all, your success is our top priority!

 

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17^th Annual Home Improvement Show This August in Columbia

The HBA of Greater Columbia Remodelers presents the Home Improvement Show August 19 – 21, 2011 at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center in downtown Columbia.  The 17^th annual show features exhibitors in home improvement, remodeling, construction and related industries.

Whether you’re just thinking about remodeling your home, or if you’re in the middle of a project and looking for the latest in home improvement technology, you’ll enjoy a one-stop shopping and learning experience with this show.  Exhibitors will present in-depth seminars about remodeling your kitchen and bath and on a variety of home improvement products and services throughout the weekend.

In addition to the many exhibitors, the show will have some Special Features throughout the weekend.  Central SC Habitat For Humanity will once again present the Habitat For Humanity ReStore where attendees can find great bargains on a wide array of home improvement items.  The ReStore will be held throughout the show.

Attendees will also have the chance to win door prizes from exhibitors with drawings held every 20 minutes of the show.  Prizes are donated from exhibitors in the show and include $25 cash, gift baskets, home décor items, tools and much more.

Exhibit space is now available, but going fast.  Contact the HBA of Greater Columbia Remodelers at (803) 256-6238 or visit their website at http://www.columbiabuilders.com for more information on the show and to sign up for exhibit space.

The Home Improvement Show is presented by the Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia Remodelers and is sponsored by Columbia Metropolitan Magazine, The State newspaper and The Home Improvement Resource Guide of Greater Columbia.

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An Inverted Ideal Photography Exhibit Extending Through August 24

Columbia, SC – The Richland County Public Library will host “An Inverted Ideal,” a collection of photographic images drenched in natural materials by artist Diane Hughes, in the Wachovia Gallery of the Main Library, 1431 Assembly St., through August 24. 

Hughes composed this collection from photographic images drenched in natural materials—from blueberries to beeswax. These carefully crafted recipes create a unique assortment of artistic pieces.

The Wachovia Gallery on the Garden Level of the Main Library, located in downtown Columbia, is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Saturday and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Thirty percent of the proceeds from all purchased art pieces will be donated to the RCPL Foundation.

For more information on RCPL, visit www.myRCPL.com.

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Strong Leadership Academy

July 11-15, 2011

Fort Jackson, Columbia, SC

 

The Celebrate Freedom Foundation^TM ,in conjunction with the West Point Society of Columbia, is proud to host the Strong Leader Academy. The Strong Leader Academy will be hosted at Fort Jackson, Columbia, South Carolina this July. The week long summer program provides college-bound high school juniors and seniors with invaluable leadership training under the supervision of West Point Cadets and Alumni. The program is an effort to continue to build our nation’s next generation of leaders. The program was first started by West Point graduates and is an extension of the community outreach of the West Point Society. The Celebrate Freedom Foundation^TM is honored to sponsor several student scholarships in an effort to equip emerging leaders of America.

Celebrate Freedom Foundation^TM Board Members will be present at the Strong Leader Academy’s Family Day, July 15^th, to honor all those graduating from this prestigious summer program.

 

For additional information please contact Jack Poole at (803)446-3462

Monkey Joe’s Clemson Rd. Grand Opening Saturday, July 9th

Monkey Joe’s Clemson Rd. will open their doors Friday, July 8th from 10am-8pm with the Grand Opening on Saturday, July 9th. Saturday, doors will open at 10 am and the first 20 paying children will get a free t-shirt. The second group of 20 paying children will get a returning admission pass and the following 40 paying children will get a Monkey Joe’s kite! There will also be drawings for a free birthday party and frequent jump card!

Monkey Joe’s is an indoor inflatable-filled, fun and exciting party and play center. They offer wild inflatable slides, jumps and obstacle courses, plus TV’s, computer stations and wifi access for parents. Open 7 days/week for parties and anytime play.

To Check out all the excitement visit the location’s FB page.