Member News | Sept. 26 – Sept. 30

Posted on September 30, 2011 by Nicole Curtis

USC College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management
Sets New Enrollment Record

The College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management (HRSM) announces a record-breaking fall enrollment for 2011 with 2,105 students, an increase of 170 students from fall 2010.

“This is a milestone achievement for our growing college,” said Dean Brian Mihalik. “I am extremely proud of our department and program chairs, as well as each faculty and staff member who contributed their efforts and leadership, resulting in us reaching this tremendous milestone. This college continues to graduate outstanding students who help drive the economic engines of South Carolina and the region.”

HRSM is now the university’s third largest undergraduate college, providing integrative and practical academic preparation for students in a collaborative environment that promotes applied research and service projects with peer institutions, global colleagues and industry partners.

The fall enrollment is up 55% from the year 2000. This year the College enrolled 2,002 undergraduate majors and 103 graduate students, including seven students admitted to the college’s new Ph.D. degree program in hospitality management.

The College of HRSM was founded in the 1960’s as a collection of several associate degree programs offered through the university’s Extension Service Program, later called the College of General Studies, and now known as the College of Hospitality Retail and Sport Management.

The University of South Carolina College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management (HRSM) prepares leaders and scholars who drive the economic engines of South Carolina, the nation and the world. Additional information is available online at www.hrsm.sc.edu or by following HRSM on Twitter at @UofSC_HRSM.

________________________________________

START SOMETHING…ENGENUITYSC ANNOUNCES 8^TH ANNUAL IGNITE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE CELEBRATING COLUMBIA’S KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY

Conference Highlights Home-Grown Talent and Features Crowd Funded Pitch Competition

EngenuitySC announced today that it will hold its award-winning 8^th annual Ignite leadership conference showcasing and celebrating innovation and talent in the Columbia region on Wednesday, November 16^th, from 5:15 to 8:00pm at the Zone at Williams Brice Stadium. This year’s Ignite theme is “Start something.”

Continuing its fast-paced format celebrating innovation and entrepreneurship in the style of the popular TEDx and Pecha-Kucha conferences, this year’s Ignite program will include more audience interaction and engagement, including presentations by five dynamic speakers delivering high-energy messages about their passions and visions for building the region’s knowledge economy.

While not yet released, organizers say that the slate of speakers represent everything that is great about Columbia and exemplify the organization’s mission to create knowledge, recruit talent, foster entrepreneurship and help Columbia compete in the 21^st century.

“They will share three things in common,” said Neil McLean, executive director for EngenuitySC. “They will showcase our local talent, share something they are passionate about, and will speak on the story behind their own endeavors.
Along with its announcement, EngenuitySC also released a promotional video for the event produced by upstart firmDinobrite Productions. The two and a half minute video, available on EngenuitySC’s website and YouTube channel, features President Pastides of the University of South Carolina and Mayor Steve Benjamin leading a team of Columbia’s entrepreneurs and grassroots leaders through an explosive, neon-lit montage of the previous year’s speakers. It was recently featured by The State as part of a profile on Dinobrite Productions and will be run on Columbia’s CityTV (Channel 2).

“The idea behind the video is how someone can take a spark, let it go, and it explodes into something bigger than you could have ever imagined when you first started,” said Neil McLean, executive director for EngenuitySC. “We think visually, the video really encapsulates our theme of ‘start something’ and hope it will be a great way to inspire Columbians to get out and act,” said McLean.

Another new component of this year’s Ignite conference is a new competition called Ignite! Columbia. The contest allows any Columbia citizen the chance to pitch their innovative idea to “start something” impactful in the Columbia region. Finalists will pitch their ideas live at the event, and attendees will take a vote to choose which vision should become reality. More information will be released within the next week detailing the contest and is available now online.

The event promises to ignite the business, startup and creative communities. Over ten organizations have already signed up to support the event this year, including anchors BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina and Wells Fargo.

“Ignite is about turning ideas into something tangible and celebrating the tremendous relationship that exists between the state’s flagship university, the City and the business community,” said City of Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin, who serves as co-chair for EngenuitySC along with University of South Carolina President Dr. Harris Pastides.

About EngenuitySC

EngenuitySC is a public/private partnership formed in 2003 to develop and grow Columbia’s regional knowledge-based economy. EngenuitySC leads initiatives that leverage the region’s assets, promote commercialization, and support research while building collaborations around these projects that are comprised of leaders from business, government and higher education. Together we foster an environment where entrepreneurship, innovation, and the creation of knowledge are fundamental elements of our region’s culture, identity, and economic development strategy.

________________________________________

Lexington Medical Center Hosts Women’s Night Out for Breast Cancer

Lexington Medical Center will host its annual Women’s Night Out on Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at the Embassy Suites hotel on Greystone Boulevard in Columbia. The event recognizes October as breast cancer awareness month and honors cancer survivors and their families. More than 500 people attend each year.

The event features a silent auction, physician exhibits, makeup demonstrations, signature cocktail, fashion show by Belk featuring breast cancer survivors, and a dinner and talk with a keynote speaker. This year’s speaker is Emory Austin, a 20-year breast cancer survivor who will deliver a motivational speech about how her scary and unexpected cancer diagnosis became a great teacher and brought renewed purpose, balance and priorities to her life and the lives of others.

Proceeds from Women’s Night Out benefit the Crystal Smith Fund, a program through the Lexington Medical Center Foundation that helps women undergoing cancer treatment purchase needed supplies. Each year, Women’s Night Out raises more than $25,000 for this important fund.

“Women’s Night Out is an uplifting evening that leaves everyone feeling inspired,” said Barbara Willm, vice president of Community Relations atLexingtonMedicalCenter.

Tickets for Women’s Night Out cost $35 each. Exhibits and the silent auction begin at 5:00 p.m. Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. You can purchase tickets by calling 803-791-2445. You can also sponsor a table for a breast cancer survivor.

LexingtonMedicalCenter’s breast program is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) and the AmericanCollegeof Radiology (ACR). LexingtonMedicalCenterhas four Women’s ImagingCentersand a state-of-the-art digital mobile mammography van that travels throughout the Midlands. Through an innovative program known as “Five Day Detection to Diagnosis,” LexingtonMedicalCenterprovides answers about the health of a woman’s breast within five days after detection of a lump or abnormality.

News reporters and photographers are welcome to cover Women’s Night Out. With advanced notice, interviews with the keynote speaker, organizers and breast cancer survivors can be scheduled. Please contact Jennifer Wilson, Lexington Medical Center public relations manager, if you plan to attend.

About Lexington Medical Center

Lexington Medical Center, in West Columbia, S.C., anchors a county-wide health care network that includes six community medical centers throughout Lexington County and employs a staff of 5,200 health care professionals. The network also includes the largest extended care facility in the state, two occupational health centers, the largest nursing home in the Carolinasand physician practices. At its heart is the 414-bed state-of-the-art LexingtonMedicalCenter, with a reputation for the highest quality care. Lexington Medical Center won “Best Hospital” by readers of The State for ten years in a row, “Best Hospital” by readers of the Free Times, “Best Place to Have a Baby” by readers of Palmetto Parent, the “Consumer Choice Award” from the National Research Corporation and the prestigious “Summit Award” from Press Ganey for outstanding patient satisfaction. Visit www.lexmed.com.

________________________________________

Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd Lawyer Joins SC BIPEC Board
John McArthur tapped to serve

John B. McArthur of Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd’s Columbia office has been elected to serve on the board of the South Carolina Business and Industry Political Education Committee (SC BIPEC), a member-driven, nonpartisan business and industry organization dedicated to promoting and protecting the free, private and competitive enterprise system through research and education.

“John is held in high esteem by his colleagues in the legal profession and is respected by business and industry leaders for his tireless efforts on their behalf. We are honored to have John join the SC BIPEC Board of Trustees where we will benefit from his advice and counsel,” said SC BIPEC’s President/CEO Tom DeLoach. Since 1985, SC BIPEC has educated its members on matters in the legislative and political arenas and educated legislators about issues of import to business and industry.

A member of the law firm’s three-member Management Committee, Mr. McArthur brings 30 years of legal and business experience to the SC BIPEC board, which is comprised of 23 statewide leaders from the manufacturing, transportation, regulatory, financial, legal, and economic development sectors.

Mr. McArthur’s law practice primarily focuses on real estate lending and commercial development. He regularly represents national and regional banks, other lending institutions and developers in transactions involving multi-phase commercial, industrial and residential development. He is included in The Best Lawyers in America® for Real Estate Law and also in South Carolina Super Lawyers™ – Real Estate.

He currently serves as chairman of The River Alliance, is a board member of City Center Partnership, Inc., and a former board member of the Columbia Development Corporation. He previously served on the executive committee of the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce. A native of Sumter, SC, Mr. McArthur received his J.D., cum laude, from the University of South Carolina School of Law, and his B.S., magna cum laude, also from the University of South Carolina.

About Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A.
Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A. provides business, litigation, financial legal services, and government relations to national and international clients. With a history dating back more than 100 years, it is one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas with 130 attorneys. The Firm has offices in Charleston, Columbia, Florence, Greenville, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Washington, D.C.

About South Carolina Business and Industry Political Education Committee (SC BIPEC)

SC BIPEC is a member-driven, nonpartisan business and industry organization dedicated to promoting and protecting the free, private and competitive enterprise system through research and education. For 26 years, SC BIPEC has educated its Members on matters in the legislative and political arenas and educated legislators about issues of import to business and industry. Since 1985, SC BIPEC analysis has accounted for the voting of each Senator and Representative on key business and industry issues in the South Carolina General Assembly. In every year since then, BIPEC has documented and quantified their respective voting performance and reported same in the Legislative Scorecard. Memorable SC BIPEC events include: The nationally televised BIPEC I (1996) and BIPEC II (2000) Presidential Debates; Gubernatorial Debate (2002); US Senate Debate in 2004; and the 2010 BIPEC Gubernatorial Debates.

________________________________________

John Fitzhugh “Fitz” King and Staci Hymson Lovelace

Join NBSC Private Banking Division

NBSC, a division of Synovus Bank, is pleased to announce the addition of John Fitzhugh “Fitz” King and Staci Hymson Lovelace to the Private Banking Division. They are both located in the Columbia office at 1221 Main Street.

Fitz is a native of Columbia and a graduate of Roanoke College in Virginia. He brings an extensive background in business to NBSC having worked in manufacturing, mortgage banking and the financial technology industry. Active in the community, Fitz is a Board Member of Palmetto Richland Children’s Hospital.

Staci is also a Columbia native and a graduate of the University of Georgia. She began her career with NBSC in 2008 as a Personal Banker. Staci later joined the loan department as a Commercial Loan Specialist and then a Credit Analyst before joining Private Banking. Staci is an active member of the Junior League of Columbia.

“We are excited to have both Fitz and Staci join our Private Banking team. As proven leaders in business and the community, they represent the commitment NBSC has to the communities we serve,” said Michael Edens, Senior Vice President.

About NBSC

NBSC is a division of Synovus Bank and currently serves 27 communities in South Carolina from 45 locations. For over 100 years, NBSC has focused on relationship banking and remains dedicated to the communities it serves. NBSC offers diverse lines of business and personal financial services including Business Banking, Investment Services and Mortgage Lending. For more information, visit http://www.bankNBSC.com.

About Synovus Bank

Synovus Bank is a Georgia-chartered, FDIC-insured bank. Synovus Bank provides commercial and retail banking, investment, and mortgage services to customers through 30 locally branded divisions, 323 offices, and 456 ATMs in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Florida and Tennessee. See Synovus Bank on the web at www.synovus.com.

________________________________________

Friends of RCPL Announces 2011-2012 Officers, Board Members

The Friends of the Richland County Public Library announces its officers and board members for 2011-2012.

Tracy A. Haisley, a communications manager with Colonial Life, was elected president. Haisley, who is currently serving her fourth term on the board, has been an active volunteer at Friends’ book sales, including serving as chairperson of the Book Sale Committee. She previously served as president in 2009.

Shannon Bobertz, a partner with Turner, Padget, Graham & Laney, P.A., was elected vice president. A Friends’ board member since 2009, she is an active member of the South Carolina Bar and the Richland County Bar Association. She was also appointed as a Bar Examiner by the South Carolina Supreme Court.

Gill Gignilliat was elected secretary. A Friends’ board member since 2009, she is a key account manager in the Clinical Quality and Health Management department of BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. Gignilliat is a member of Junior League of Columbia and volunteers with March of Dimes and Family Connection.

Mary League, a shareholder with Ellis, Lawhorne & Sims, P.A., was elected treasurer. League has served on the Friends’ board since 2009 and is an active member of the South Carolina Bar, the Richland County Bar Association and the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Educational Association. She has served as vice president and recording secretary for the Shandon Neighborhood Council and is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Board members are: Christina “Tina” W. Auman; Robin Blume; John C. Bradley Jr.; Janice W. Brown; Joseph D. Clark; Michelle J. Clark; Aubrey Dillard; Keith Gardner; Stacey D. Haynes; Chris Koon; Andrea Lance; Jonathan “J.P.” Lee; Helen Madden; Melina Mann; Sarah Martin; Susan Mazur; Chakisse Newton; Jennifer Robinson; Rachel Snowden; and Jess Torres. Kirby Shealy serves as the representative from the Library’s Board of Trustees.

The Friends of RCPL is a nonprofit organization charged with raising awareness of and support for the library. For additional information on membership, which starts at only $25, or the book sales, call (803) 98 or visit www.myRCPL.com/friends.

________________________________________

NAI AVANT AWARDED 100 ACRE FORMER ROBBER’S ROOST PROPERTY

IN DOWNTOWN NORTH MYRTLE BEACH

Macon Lovelace and Cam Kreps, members of NAI Avant’s Brokerage Team, were recently awarded the assignment to sell the former Robber’s Roost property in the heart of downtown North Myrtle Beach. This 100 acre proposed and (fully entitled) mixed-used urban development opportunity represents one of the most significant in-fill parcels to become available on the Grand Strand in years. The property sits between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intercoastal Waterway.

To learn more about this property please visit www.naiavantnorthmyrtlebeach.com or contact Macon Lovelace mlovelace@naiavant.com or Cam Kreps ckreps@naiavant.com.

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. Be sure to follow us on Twitter @NAI Avant and like us on Facebook.

________________________________________

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden Wins Prestigious Edward H. Bean Award

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today announced that Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has been awarded the 2011 Edward H. Bean Award for its Bali mynah program.

The Edward H. Bean Award recognizes propagation or management programs that contribute to the reproductive success of one or more species and/or subspecies. The Bean Award is a historic award within AZA, established in September 1956, honoring the first director of Chicago’s Brookfield Zoo, Edward H. Bean, who was one of the founders of AZA in 1926.

“Riverbanks Zoo and Garden maintains an exceptional commitment to conservation science,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. “Winning the AZA Bean Award provides well-deserved international recognition for the professionals at Riverbanks who devote themselves to the conservation of nature.”

The Bali mynah is a critically endangered bird species that has been maintained and bred at Riverbanks Zoo since 1973. Since then, Riverbanks has bred 44 Bali mynahs that have been transferred to other institutions as part of the AZA’s Species Survival Plan. Then curator of birds at Riverbanks, Robert E. Seibels, recognized the key role AZA-accredited institutions could play in saving this enigmatic species. In 1981 he established the AZA Bali mynah North American Regional studbook, followed in 1983 by the establishment of the Bali mynah Species Survival Plan.

The North American population now numbers 155 birds in 55 AZA institutions. Bali mynahs continue to be bred and exhibited at Riverbanks. This work helps to ensure the integrity of the North American population and preserve the future possibility of re-introducing birds back to their native range on the Indonesian island of Bali.

________________________________________

Golf Tournament to Benefit Children Served by Healthy Learners

Healthy Learners will hold its 12^th Annual George Younginer Memorial Golf Tournament on Wednesday October 26, 2011, to benefit the children served by Healthy Learners. The event is set for a noon shotgun start on the Wildcat and Old Hickory courses at the Fort Jackson Golf Club in Columbia.

Healthy Learners is a faith-based non-profit that connects children to care so that poor health is not an obstacle to doing well in school. The organization addresses poverty at its root, so that future generations can lift themselves, and their communities, to a better life.

“Each year, proceeds from the golf tournament enable us to help hundreds of children all across South Carolina by providing them with health care services like vision care, dental care, and hearing evaluations,” said Jo Pauling-Jones, Executive Director of Healthy Learners. “There is no way we could do all that good work without dedicated and caring supporters.”

Matthew Roberts, Member, Nexsen Pruet, LLC and Judy Davis, CLO, EVP, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina are Co-Chairs for this statewide event that traditionally hosts more than 200 golfers. As Co-Chairs, they invite others to help make a difference in a child’s life by playing golf or supporting a golfer in the 12^th Annual George Younginer Memorial Golf Tournament.

Join this year’s presenting sponsors, M.B. Kahn Construction Company and AFLAC, for one of the largest and most successful charity golf tournaments in the Midlands. There are four levels of sponsorship that include invitations for a golf foursome to participate. To sponsor or play in this event contact Cindy Nixon-Witt at Cynthia.nixon-witt@healthylearners.com or visit healthylearners.com.

Healthy Learners was founded in 1992 based on the belief that children learn better when they are healthy. A ministry of the Sisters of Charity Health System, Healthy Learners has five programs that serve 144 schools across nine South Carolina school districts. The counties served are Allendale, Dillon, Georgetown, Greenwood, Lexington and Richland. For more information, see healthylearners.com.

________________________________________

NEW AIRPORT COMMISSION CHAIRMAN NAMED

Robert W. Price, Jr. was named the Chairman of the Richland-Lexington Airport Commission at the Commission’s monthly meeting on September 19^th. Mr. Price represents Lexington County on the Commission and was initially appointed in 2005. He is currently serving his second term as a board member having been re-appointed in 2009.

Mr. Price retired from Delta Air Lines in 1996 after having served with the company for 32 years. Following his retirement, he worked for Lexington School District Two for 12 years. He has been a member of the Masons since 1975, a member of the Jamil Shrine Temple since 1976, and is also a member of the American Legion Post 130.

Mr. Price and his wife, Amelia, are members of West Side Baptist Church in West Columbia where he is a member of several committees and a member of the West Side Baptist Choir. They have two children, Angela and Wally, and two grandchildren, Bryan and Chad.

The Commission also welcomes Jerry Howard and Jim Compton, both representing Lexington County, back to the Airport Commission. Mr. Howard’s previous term ended in 2008 and Mr. Compton’s previous term ended in 2007. The Airport Commission consists of 12

members with 5 members representing Lexington County, 5 members representing Richland County, and 2 members representing the City of Columbia.

________________________________________

Golf Tournament to Benefit Children Served by Healthy Learners

Join this year’s presenting sponsors, M.B. Kahn Construction Company, AFLAC and Hole in One Sponsor, Jim Hudson for one of the largest and most successful charity golf tournaments in the Midlands. There are four levels of sponsorship that include invitations for a golf foursome to participate. To sponsor or play in this event contact Cindy Nixon-Witt at Cynthia.nixon-witt@healthylearners.com or visit healthylearners.com.

Leadership Columbia to be Honored at “The Good Night” for Outstanding Humanitarian Impact on the Community

Posted on September 28, 2011 by Nicole Curtis

Leadership Columbia will be honored Oct. 6 for its outstanding humanitarian impact on the Midlands at the Cooperative Ministry’s annual soiree “The GOOD Night.”

Since 1973, the Leadership Columbia program has been providing existing and emerging leaders with opportunities to enhance their civic knowledge and network. Participants learn a greater understanding of how our community works, build relationships with the region’s current and future leaders, and become inspired to focus talents in a way that will best serve the community.

Want to join in the fun? Come and help us celebrate the GOOD people.

When: Thursday, Oct. 6 at 6PM
What: Soiree and Silent Auction | Cocktail Attire
Where: The Township Auditorium

Purchase your tickets here or call 803-799-3853 ext 212

Leadership Columbia Class & Alumni receive $10 off ticket price. Coupon Code: LCAA

About The Cooperative Ministry
Since 1982, The Cooperative Ministry—a Columbia based nonprofit—has worked to improve the quality of life for the working poor in the Midlands by providing direct assistance, counseling, prayer and guidance to other available community resources. Not only does The Cooperative Ministry provide emergency assistance to the working poor, it also offers many of them the opportunity to gain independence through financial sustainability programs. This is achieved through a coordinated effort that includes over 100 partnering agencies, congregations, civic and social organizations, foundations, businesses and individuals. www.coopmin.org

Midlands Angel Investor Network – MAIN

Posted on September 26, 2011 by Nicole Curtis

Start-up companies are vital to creating new jobs, and access to capital is vital for creating start-up companies. One source of that capital are angel investors, high net-worth individuals who have the time and interest to invest in and advise early stage companies.

To help bridge that funding gap, Innovista Partnerships at the University of South Carolina, the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce and SC Launch, a program of the South Carolina Research Authority, are working to create MAIN, the Midlands Angel Investor Network.

Experienced angel investors, potential new angels, entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial support professionals are invited to learn more about MAIN and angel investing at a seminar on Oct. 13.

Renowned angel investor Bill Payne will lead The Power of Angel Investing from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, 930 Richland Street.

For more information click here.

Member News | Sept. 19 – Sept. 23

Posted on September 26, 2011 by Nicole Curtis

McNair Managing Shareholder David Tigges Named to the Board of Directors of the South Carolina Aquarium

McNair Law Firm today announced that the firm’s Managing Shareholder and CEO, David Tigges, has been elected to a three-year term to the Board of Directors of the South Carolina Aquarium on Charleston Harbor. The appointment was effective September 2011.

“Whether through pro bono legal work or community involvement, service to the public is a timeless legacy at McNair,” Tigges said. “Our clients expect the firm’s attorneys to be leaders — with the law, with business, and with the civic and charitable issues about which we care.”

The Charleston aquarium is one of several civic and charitable organizations where Mr. Tigges has volunteered as an officer or director. Others, past and current, include the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Heritage Classic Foundation, Beaufort County Task Force on Economic Development, Mayor’s Task Force for Hilton Head Island’s Future, The Sandbox Interactive Children’s Museum, the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, South Carolina Governor’s Blue Ribbon Committee on Conservation Easements and South Carolina Governor’s Blue Ribbon Committee on Tax Incentives for Historic Preservation.

About the South Carolina Aquarium on Charleston Harbor

Over 5 million people have visited the aquarium since it opened on Charleston Harbor in May 2000. The regional attraction has over 60 exhibits that illustrate the life and character of the five major regions of the Appalachian watershed. Highlights currently include Camp Carolina, an interactive, immersion exhibit about the upstate region of South Carolina. According the aquarium Web site, “The Great Ocean Tank is the largest exhibit in the Aquarium. It extends from the first to the third floor of the Aquarium, holds over 385,000 gallons of water and contains over 450 animals.”

About McNair

McNair Law Firm, P.A., is a full-service law firm serving businesses, government and individuals from eight offices in South Carolina and one in Charlotte, N.C. The firm traces its origins to 1971, when former governor Robert E. McNair founded a firm dedicated to handling high-stakes legal needs in the Carolinas, especially where business and government interests intersect.

____________________________________

ROGERS TOWNSEND & THOMAS’ STOMSKI HONORED FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE

Teri K. Stomski, special counsel with Rogers Townsend & Thomas, PC, has been honored by two organizations in recognition of her service to the community.

The Rotary Club of Five Points recently presented her with “The Charles C. Foster Rotarian of the Year Award,” which the group bestows annually in appreciation and recognition of distinguished service, loyalty and devotion to the ideals of Rotary. She also received the award for her service in 2007-08.

Additionally, Stomski was recognized as a Healthy Learners Ambassador during that organization’s recent awards luncheon. She serves on the Healthy Learners Board of Trustees, holding the positions of vice chair and Fund Development Committee chair. The organization is devoted to removing children’s barriers to learning.

A native of Columbia, Stomski earned her bachelor’s and her Juris Doctor at the University of South Carolina. In 2009, the University of South Carolina School of Law honored her with the Compleat Lawyer Award, which recognizes attorneys who have made significant contributions to the legal profession and uphold high standards of professional competence, ethics and integrity.

She frequently writes and lectures about topics related to real estate and banking for the South Carolina Bar and USC School of Law. She is currently serving as president of the Palmetto Land Title Association.

At Rogers Townsend & Thomas, Stomski’s practice focuses on Business, Banking and Commercial Development.

About Rogers Townsend & Thomas
Rogers Townsend & Thomas, PC, with offices in Columbia, Charlotte, Charleston and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, has 65 attorneys practicing in a wide range of industries and practice areas. Rogers Townsend provides counsel to the banking, default services, insurance, real estate, construction, corporate, estate planning and probate, and title services industries. Visit us at rtt-law.com.

___________________________________

Cohn Construction Services, LLC Announces Official Fields Health Clinic Groundbreaking

Cohn Construction Services, a full-service design/build construction firm, hosted the official groundbreaking at the future site of the new Fields Health Clinic on Devine Street. The groundbreaking event began at 5.00pm on Wednesday, September 7th, 2011 and took place at the new building site location in Columbia, South Carolina on Devine Street next to Dunbar Funeral Home.

Dr. James Fields welcomed the crowd of 40 plus people in attendance and explained the history of Fields Chiropractic Clinic and how they have achieved success. Key players in the project such as Dr. Sander Fields, Dr. James Fields, Dr. Andrew Fields, Keith Phillips, Rick Cohn, and Harris Cohn took the shovels and hard hats and broke ground on their new building site. Additional contributors for the project such as Drew Painter from First Community Bank and Eric Huffstetler from LTC Architects were also there to celebrate in the monumental day.

Cohn Construction Services, LLC, was hired by Fields Health Clinic to facilitate the entire process of designing and building their new health clinic. The firm conceptualized, envisioned and strategized the overall design for the facility while working closely with Fields Health Clinic officials to ensure the overall facility conformed to specific aesthetic, technical and functional expectations and requirements. Collaborating with local architecture and engineering firms (to program certain design aspects) their team conceived an integrated master plan seen through to project completion.

“We thought this groundbreaking celebration would be a great way to build anticipation around the arrival of Fields Health Clinic’s new building on Devine Street,” said Cohn Construction President Harris Cohn, “We are very pleased to be part of the Fields family’s exciting business expansion and we look forward to beginning work on this new project.”

Cohn Construction Services is scheduled to complete the new project in January, 2012. The single-level medical clinic will provide general medical exams and treatment, chiropractic exams, therapy, and x-ray services. The new location will feature more spacious procedure rooms and nicely appointed patient and staff areas. An environmentally conscious design has been incorporated into this facility, utilizing innovative and efficient products which include energy conserving HVAC and lighting control systems, high efficiency windows, and an increased insulation package. The exterior will be aesthetically pleasing having a combination of brick and stone veneer with stucco accents.

About Fields Health Clinic

In 1983, Dr. Sander Fields opened Fields Chiropractic Clinic in Columbia, SC. In 1997, Dr. Andrew Fields joined his father in his practice, and in 2001 Dr. James Fields completed the family team. Most recently Andrew and James have completed a bachelors in nursing and are on tract to complete their family nurse practitioner degrees in May 2012. The practice will soon be known as Fields Health Clinic because of the vast services they will provide. These services include a family medical practice, podiatry, chiropractic manipulation of the spine, spinal (disc) decompression, therapeutic ultrasound for selected sub-chronic and chronic conditions, electrotherapy for relaxation of muscle spasms, massage therapy, exercise and nutrition counseling, along with many others. The physicians and staff at Fields Health Clinic pride themselves in providing safe, quality, and natural care to cure pain. For more information, contact Fields Health Clinic at 803-787-7050 or visit www.fieldschiro.com.

About Cohn Construction Services, LLC

Richard H. Cohn, Sr. founded Cohn Construction Services in 1992. Company President, Richard H. Cohn, Jr., joined his father in 2004. Cohn Construction Services specializes in medical, dental, industrial, and commercial building projects across the state of South Carolina. The Cohn Construction Medical Building Division has established a reputation for excellence working closely with clients and employing a tailored design/build approach. Cohn Construction delivers innovative, efficient and high quality buildings with traditionally aesthetic materials such as brick, stone, tilt-up, concrete or glass meaning their medical buildings can meet any appearance requirement, while delivering quick turnaround, cost savings and faster occupancy to clients. For More Information visit www.cohncontruction.com

____________________________________

“Buy Local” marketing company opens territory in Greater Columbia Metro

September 21, 2011 – New to the Chamber and the communities of the Greater Columbia Metro area is an exciting opportunity for local businesses to gain a low cost marketing solution, while coming together and contributing to the overall economic health of the area. RelyLocal is pleased to announce Kem Oliver as the territory owner of RelyLocal of Greater Columbia. Longtime area residents, Kem and his wife Sherry, have strong roots here and are eager and committed to help with the economic health for main street businesses from Chapin to Blythewood, Lexington to Forest Acres, and all places in between.

“My great grandfather started his own business in Columbia at the corner of Main and Elmwood back in 1929 which operated under my grandfather and great uncle through the 70’s” Oliver says. “My sister and brother-in-law own a business in 5 points now, and after owning my own restaurant for several years, I have a good feeling for what local business owners are up against.”

RelyLocal was born in response to the economic problems that have plagued our country. The idea for RelyLocal was very simple – empower local business owners to stabilize their local economy, while educating residents on the important role that local business plays in the overall health of the community. The company began with three main goals; 1) To provide new, locally-driven, cost-effective marketing resources to small businesses, 2) To develop a grass roots campaign, uniting business owners and residents in a fight for the economic health of their community, and 3) To create as many new jobs across the country as possible.

“RelyLocal’s mission and business model really has struck a chord across the country.” states RelyLocal’s Co-Founder, Steve Ramsey referring to the over 405 cites in 121 markets and 25 states in which RelyLocal has become active since it’s inception in late 2009. ”Having local business leaders involved with our growing company shows how passionate people are to make a difference in their local communities and in their local economy.”

At RelyLocal’s core is a powerful, location-specific online directory devoted to locally owned and operated businesses. In addition to the web site’s core feature set of maps, photos, video marketing, reviews, job-board and coupons. Local businesses are promoted through search engine marketing, social media platforms, co-op advertising, old-fashioned networking, and locally driven grass roots campaigns.

“We are eager to ‘carry the torch’ for locally owned businesses in the Midlands and hope to help create an atmosphere of support to bolster our local communities economic health” says Oliver, “we are proud to be local business owners and look forward to being active in the community and continuing contributors to our local economy”

Please visit their website and blog to see more at www.relylocal.com/southcarolina/columbia or contact them at greatercolumbia@relylocal.com or 803-937-3113.

____________________________________

Lexington Medical Center Begins “Every Woman” Blog

Lexington Medical Center is pleased to announce that ten women from the Midlands have been selected as featured bloggers for its new Every Woman Blog at www.everywomanblog.com. The women were selected during the summer in a contest sponsored by Lexington Medical Center.

“The Every Woman Blog is an excellent way for women in our community to educate and inspire each other,” said Jennifer Wilson, public relations manager at Lexington Medical Center. “The compelling stories of each of the women are entertaining, insightful and valuable, and will help women who read them be the best they can be.”

Meet the winning bloggers:

Jordan Addison: Jordan is the reigning Miss Black South Carolina USA who combines brains and beauty. This University of South Carolina student is passionate about awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and empowering women to be leaders in their communities.

Elizabeth Webber Akre: Elizabeth is a food and wine enthusiast trying to balance life as a realtor, Sunday school teacher, daughter, sister and friend. Her most important roles are as a wife and a mom to an energetic 5-year-old.

Katie Austin: Katie is a 43-year-old working mother and wife in the male-dominated computer profession who loves connecting with people. As a one-year breast cancer survivor, she is dedicated to raising awareness and bringing women together to fight this disease.

Summer Brons: Summer is a 26-year-old runner, writer and coffee enthusiast currently training for a marathon. She shares her experience of finding the perfect balance of work, friends, family, relationships and time for herself.

Mary Pat Baldauf: Mary Pat loves sharing her experiences as a 44-year-old woman striving to improve her life through exercise and healthier eating. She has lost nearly 80 pounds in the last year. She is also passionate about environmental initiatives and sustainability.

Brady Evans: Brady, a high school biology teacher, shares her passion for cooking healthy meals and the trials and tribulations of owning horses with her husband. Her intelligence, organizational skills and excellent writing and photography abilities are highly noteworthy.

Crissie Miller Kirby: In the last 12 years, Crissie has survived college, marriage, having two children, a miscarriage and the heartache of a divorce. She has gained strength through sharing her experiences and connecting with women on life lessons learned.

Roshanda Pratt: Roshanda is a former television news producer turned “mompreneur,” wife and ministry leader. She is the mother of a 5-year-old, 3-year-old and one-year-old who is navigating the runway of life as a “supermomdel.”

Staci Rutherford: Staci has a self-confessed obsession with handbags. She helps women to look and feel their best with articles on the latest in handbag and accessory trends. Her writing has garnered the attention of some of the top designers in the industry.

Shannon Shull: Shannon recently moved home to Lexington County after more than a decade in Los Angeles. With her movie star good looks, she shares her experiences as a self-proclaimed “small down desperate housewife,” combining marriage, motherhood, starting a new business and falling back in love with the South.

Readers of the Every Woman Blog will find an abundance of helpful health information, but topics are not limited to health care. Each woman will write one to two posts per month beginning in September. You can view videos of each of the women on the blog to get to know them. Some of the blog entries will be in the form of video. There will also be guest posts by medical experts from Lexington Medical Center who will provide valuable and timely health care information to readers.

Visit www.everywomanblog.com

About Lexington Medical Center

Lexington Medical Center, in West Columbia, S.C., anchors a county-wide health care network that includes six community medical centers throughout Lexington County and employs a staff of 5,200 health care professionals. The network also includes the largest extended care facility in the state, two occupational health centers, the largest nursing home in the Carolinas and physician practices. At its heart is the 414-bed state-of-the-art Lexington Medical Center, with a reputation for the highest quality care. Lexington Medical Center won “Best Hospital” by readers of The State for ten years in a row, “Best Hospital” by readers of the Free Times, “Best Place to Have a Baby” by readers of Palmetto Parent, the “Consumer Choice Award” from the National Research Corporation and the prestigious “Summit Award” from Press Ganey for outstanding patient satisfaction. Visit www.lexmed.com.

____________________________________

City Center Partnership Announces New Director of Retail Recruitment for Downtown Columbia

City Center Partnership (CCP) is excited to welcome Heather Spires as the new Director of Retail Recruitment for downtown Columbia.

“Heather brings a wealth of experience in sales from recruiting members and soliciting donations for non-profit organizations,” said Matt Kennell, president and CEO of City Center Partnership. “Heather was selected from a group of very qualified people. Ultimately her background, personality, and relationships in Columbia are a major asset to our organization. We feel she will do an outstanding job.”

About Heather Spires

Spires is a graduate of the University of South Carolina School of Journalism and Mass Communications. She has worked with various advocacy and nonprofit organizations and was previously the Development Director of the Nickelodeon Theatre. As Development Director, Spires oversaw the Nick’s $4M capital campaign through the identification, cultivation, and solicitation of individual, corporate, foundation, and public prospects.

About CCP

CCP is a nonprofit organization that strives to keep downtown Columbia a safe and clean environment for business and patrons. CCP is focused on keeping the 36-block area bounded by Gervais, Elmwood, Assembly, and Marion streets, a thriving business center with constant improvements. The organization also handles public space management, economic development, marketing services, and public advocacy.

Columbia Chamber Honors Ray Tanner at 2011 Annual Gala

Posted on September 23, 2011 by Nicole Curtis

COLUMBIA, S.C. – More than 800 gathered Thursday night at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center for the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce’s 2011 Annual Gala. Sponsored by BB&T, the event featured a silent auction, dinner and awards program emceed by Rick Henry, sports director and anchor for WIS TV. Ray Tanner, USC head baseball coach and Chamber Ambassador of the Year, delivered the keynote address.

Tanner reflected on his journey wining back-to-back national championships, “I will never tell you that I knew we would win a national championship, or two, but I would never tell you that the possibility did not exist. I always felt that maybe, somehow, someday, someway, that it would all come together, and because of you, our wonderful city, our great fans and so many great players it did become a reality…and what a great place to celebrate.”

The Columbia Chamber also presented Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce President Randy Halfacre with an award for Regional Cooperation. Halfacre, who is also mayor of the Town of Lexington, was honored for his work in establishing the MIDSTATE Chambers Coalition, which has brought together 19 chambers from 11 counties in a unified advocacy body.

Awards for Military Advocate and Young Professional of the Year went to:

Military Advocate Award
Joanie Thresher
USO South Carolina

Young Professional of the Year
Tara Williams
AllSouth Federal Credit Union

The Columbia Chamber also unveiled its 2010-2011 Annual Report at the gala. The 35-page report provides insight on the past year’s initiatives, programs and events through editorial, pictures and testimonials. Contact the Columbia Chamber at 803.733.1155 for a copy of the report.

Adding to the excitement, the Columbia Chamber debuted its new brand video.

Watch it now.

For more information on the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, visit www.ColumbiaChamber.com. Like Us on Facebook, Follow Us on Twitter and check out our Blog for up-to-date news from the Chamber.

Photo credit: Kathy Moore Powell, Moore Photography

Future Leaders of Columbia Take to the High Ropes at Leadership Columbia Class Retreat

Posted on September 22, 2011 by Nicole Curtis

Sept. 15-16, 60 emerging leaders from the Leadership Columbia Class of 2012 set out to White Oak Conference Center for the program’s annual retreat.

During the two day retreat, classmates worked together in various team building activities including a challenging high ropes obstacle course.

The group also engaged in a personality assessment test and discussion led by Don Jenkins.

At the end of the retreat the class voted on three class project ideas: health & human services, cultural and literacy initiative and military service. Over the next 3 weeks, the class will further develop their project ideas to present to the full class on Oct. 11 – Education Day.

View all the photos from the Class of 2012 Retreat here.

For more information on this year’s class and the Leadership Columbia Alumni Association, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Leadership Columbia is an educational program offered through the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce. The 10 month program provides existing and emerging leaders in the Midlands area with an opportunity to enhance their civic knowledge and network. For more than 30 years, Leadership Columbia has helped participants better understand the local community, while building relationships with the region’s current and future leaders.

Ignite… Back to blow you away.

Posted on September 21, 2011 by Nicole Curtis

EngenuitySC is back for the 8th time with their annual award-winning conference Ignite, and this year they’re letting the sparks fly with a promotional feature video sure to leave you scorched. The move is set to promote the annual fall conference and contest.

With the swift yet casual toss of a lighter by a markedly stoic Mayor Stephen Benjamin, the two and a half minute feature video explodes into a neon-lit series featuring President Pastides of the University of South Carolina, President Marshall “Sonny” White of Midlands Technical College, Columbia’s Director of Economic Development Jim Gambrell and more. The leaders participated to show support for some of Columbia’s most dynamic grassroots leaders and entrepreneurs featured in the video including Executive Director Katherine Swartz of Columbia Opportunity Resource, founder of Caroline Guitars Philippe Herdon, and President and Owner of DP Professionals Barbara Blau.

The video is designed to share clips from previous years of the fast-paced annual innovation celebration, recipient of the 2010 Excellence in Economic Development award from IEDC, but its sure to leave anyone who watches ready to join the conference’s call and “start something.”

The celebration, based on a hybrid of the popular TedX and Pecha-Kucha engagement formats, showcases Columbia’s homegrown talent in every facet, from its mix of established and rising innovators and entrepreneurs as speakers, to the shark tank contest theme, to local cuisine, right down to the upstart firm Dinobrite Productions hired to produce the video.

Read more on the program for the evening on our blog at the all new www.engenuitysc.com.

Details
Wednesday, November 16th, 2011
The Zone @ Williams-Brice Stadium
Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at www.engenuitysc.com/ignite.
Tickets and sponsorships available.
Contest open through October 16.

Content Provided by EngenitySC

Member News | Sept. 12 – Sept. 16

Posted on September 16, 2011 by Nicole Curtis

Pets: The Whole 9 Yards
Let us care for your pets,
Like we care for ours!

Pets: The Whole 9 Yards is a full pet supply store, boarding, daycare, grooming, training facility for all domestic and exotic pets. Whether you have dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, fish or small mammals we definitely have something for you.

Owners; David Reyes and Leslie Reyes, along with manager Hollie Chiles, met while in school in 2007. All three have received various degrees in the animal field, along with having experience working with exotics and raising their own domestic pet family. The three of them got together and started formulating a blueprint to get Pets: The Whole 9 Yards underway. Over a year of preparation and our dream facility opened on August 15, 2011.

On October 22, 2011 we will be celebrating our Halloween themed Grand Opening! Although we are already open, we hope to bring out familiar and new faces to our big event. We will be welcoming rescue organizations for various domestic and exotic pets, a veterinary facility and other animal related small business owners. Come join us for food, music, costume contests, pictures, while getting to know our little Pets: The Whole 9 Yards family.

___________________________________________

Nexsen Pruet Named One of the “Best Companies in the Midlands for Working Moms”

For the second year in a row, the Columbia Business Monthly and The March of Dimes have named Nexsen Pruet as one of the ““Best Companies in the Midlands for Working Moms.”

“Nexsen Pruet demonstrates a commitment to providing a healthy and nurturing environment that promotes behaviors leading to healthy pregnancies and healthy babies,” said Erin Galloway, Executive Director of the Midlands Division of the March of Dimes.

“When I began working at Nexsen Pruet, the firm more than exceeded my expectations,” said attorney Kirsten Small, a mother of two. “I love the culture of the firm because it is possible to be a good attorney and take care of my family.” Click here to listen to other Nexsen Pruet mothers describe why the firm is a great place for working mothers.

Seven companies receiving the designation are recognized in the magazine’s September 2011 edition.

Each year, the South Carolina March of Dimes invests more than $1.5 million statewide, including research grants and local community services. The March of Dimes strives to prevent birth defects and infant death, reduce South Carolina’s premature birth rate, increase access to prenatal care and educate men and women about having healthy babies.

Nexsen Pruet, LLC is one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, with more than 170 attorneys and offices in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach, S.C. as well as Charlotte, Greensboro, and Raleigh, N.C. Founded in 1945, Nexsen Pruet provides a broad range of legal services to the business community and represents companies and other entities in local, state, national, and international venues. For further information, see http://www.nexsenpruet.com

___________________________________________

Award-Winning Author Chris Crutcher Visits Library

Join the Richland County Public Library for a discussion and signing with award-winning author Chris Crutcher at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 22 at the Main Library, 1431 Assembly St.

Chris Crutcher is one of the most successful — and most frequently banned — authors of realistic fiction in the Young Adult industry, with 11 novels, two short story collections and one autobiography to his credit. His writing features teens coping with serious problems, including abusive parents, racial and religious prejudice, mental and physical disability, and poverty. These themes are viewed as too mature for children. Despite this controversy, Crutcher’s writing has received many awards.

This program is free and open to teens and adults. For more information, call 929-3457 or visit http://www.myRCPL.com.

___________________________________________

Dinkins elected NCEES president-elect

Delegates elected Gene Dinkins, P.E., P.L.S., NCEES president-elect at the organization’s 90th annual meeting, held August 24–27 in Providence, Rhode Island. He will serve as president-elect for the 2011–12 term and as president the following year.

A resident of Columbia, South Carolina, Dinkins has been a member of the South Carolina State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Surveyors since 2004. He is a former board chair as well as a past NCEES treasurer and Southern Zone vice president.

Dinkins has almost 40 years of experience in land surveying and engineering. He is the president of Cox and Dinkins, Inc., a land surveying and civil engineering firm. He is a past chair of the Richland County (S.C.) Planning Commission and the City of Columbia (S.C.) Planning Commission and is active in professional and community affairs. He has also been a guest lecturer at the University of South Carolina’s School of Law and its College of Engineering, the South Carolina Bar Association, and numerous other business and educational seminars.

Dinkins holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Clemson University as well as a
bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master’s degree in environmental engineering from the
University of South Carolina.

ABOUT NCEES
NCEES is a national nonprofit organization composed of engineering and surveying licensing boards representing all U.S. states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. An accredited standards developer with the American National Standards Institute, NCEES develops, scores, and administers the examinations used for engineering and surveying licensure throughout the United States. NCEES also provides services facilitating professional mobility for licensed engineers and surveyors. Its headquarters is located in Clemson, S.C.

___________________________________________

SOWELL GRAY FIRM, ATTORNEYS HIGHLIGHTED IN BENCHMARK LITIGATION

Benchmark: Appellate, a new guide to the country’s leading lawyers and firms, has named Sowell Gray Stepp & Laffitte, LLC, one of the leading appellate firms in the United States Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Additionally, the guide has named Sowell Gray members Thornwell Sowell, and Robert Stepp as local stars.
The Fourth Circuit covers all of South Carolina, as well as North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland.
Benchmark: Appellate is produced by the publishers of Benchmark: Litigation. That guide, in its fifth edition, highlighted Sowell Gray as one of the top litigation law firms in South Carolina.

Benchmark: Appellate was created to meet a “demand for increased focus on the appellate litigation practice,” the publishers say. Attorneys are selected for both Benchmark publications after extensive face-to-face interviews around the country to pinpoint the best attorneys at both the local and national levels. Additionally, Benchmark says it includes attorneys based on outstanding success during that year, as well as on consistently positive feedback from peers and clients.

About Sowell Gray
Located in Columbia’s historic Vista district, Sowell Gray Stepp & Laffitte LLC provides business and litigation representation in all state and federal trial and appellate courts in South Carolina. Founded in 1996, the firm serves clients ranging from multi-national corporations to small businesses and individuals. For more information, please visit sowellgray.com.

About Benchmark
Benchmark is designed as a detailed analysis of the country’s top litigators as well as a reference for corporate counsel who need outside help with a case. For more information, go to http://www.benchmarklitigation.com.

Member News | Sept 2 – Sept 9

Posted on September 9, 2011 by Nicole Curtis

“Labor Day” News:

Lexington Medical Center: One of the Best Midlands Companies for Working Moms

Hospital Among 7 Organizations Honored with Prestigious Award

Lexington Medical Center has been recognized as one of the Best Midlands Companies for Working Moms in an annual competition sponsored by the March of Dimes and Greater Columbia Business Monthly magazine.

Businesses throughout the Midlands were invited to apply for the distinction by submitting an application detailing their company’s policies and culture that help employees balance work and family responsibilities.

Lexington Medical Center, with an 85% female staff and approximately 5,200 employees, was praised for its daycare center on the hospital campus, areas for nursing mothers, adoption programs, flexible scheduling, healthy cafeteria menus and subsidized gym memberships.

“We are delighted that Lexington Medical Center is among the organizations in the Midlands demonstrating a commitment to providing a healthy and nurturing environment that promotes behaviors leading to healthy pregnancies and healthy babies,” said Erin Galloway, Executive Director of the Midlands Division of the March of Dimes.

The application process included a 20-question survey about corporate policies and culture that promote employee wellness and family-work life balance. The seven winners of the competition are showcased in the September issue of Greater Columbia Business Monthly.

“The commitment to providing an outstanding place of employment to help moms balance their career and family life has made a tremendous difference in the lives of many working moms,” said Rhonda Hewson, publisher of Greater Columbia Business Monthly.

About Lexington Medical Center

Lexington Medical Center, in West Columbia, S.C., anchors a county-wide health care network that includes six community medical centers throughout Lexington County and employs a staff of 5,200 health care professionals. The network also includes the largest extended care facility in the state, two occupational health centers, the largest nursing home in the Carolinas and physician practices. At its heart is the 414-bed state-of-the-art Lexington Medical Center, with a reputation for the highest quality care. Lexington Medical Center won “Best Hospital” by readers of The State for ten years in a row, “Best Hospital” by readers of the Free Times, “Best Place to Have a Baby” by readers of Palmetto Parent, the “Consumer Choice Award” from the National Research Corporation and the prestigious “Summit Award” from Press Ganey for outstanding patient satisfaction. Visit www.lexmed.com.

______________________________________________

Collins & Lacy, P.C. Elects Ellen Adams as Managing Partner

Collins & Lacy, P.C. is pleased to announce Ellen M. Adams has been elected managing partner of the statewide business defense law firm. As managing partner, Adams joins an elite group. Only 15 percent of managing partners in law firms across the country are women, according to the American Bar Association (ABA). Adams, whose 20 year career at Collins & Lacy has involved more than 1,000 cases, was elected by her peers to lead the firm.

Adams is a native of Cayce, S.C. She received her Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law. She has argued cases to the Full Workers’ Compensation Commission, Circuit Court, Court of Appeals and Supreme Court. She has been repeatedly named one of the Best Lawyers in America©.

“Ellen’s election as managing partner shows our firm’s faith in her abilities as a lawyer and a leader. I look forward to seeing what we accomplish next under her leadership,” said Stan Lacy, who co-founded the firm in 1984 with Joel Collins.

Adams says her first order of business is to enable the firm to continue to do what it already does, which is effectively and efficiently serve clients across the state of South Carolina.

“We are noted for our youthful energy, talent, teamwork, diversity and know-how,” says Adams. “At Collins & Lacy, we have earned our reputation with uncompromising commitment to helping South Carolina businesses stay in business. I look forward to being a strategic part of our firm’s continued growth and commitment to serving the South Carolina business community.”

About Collins & Lacy, P.C.

In 2011, Collins & Lacy, P.C., celebrates 27 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.

______________________________________________

25 Columbia Attorneys Named to the

2012 Edition of Best Lawyers®

Nexsen Pruet is proud to announce that 25 attorneys based in its Columbia headquarters have been named to the 2012 edition of Best Lawyers®. Attorneys Ralph Barbier, Mark Bender, Mike Brittingham, Henry Brown, Russell Burke, David Dubberly, Jones DuBose, Victoria Eslinger, William Floyd, Julian “Jay” Hennig, Tim Hewson, Fred Kingsmore, Corky Klett, Mark Knight, Tommy Lavender, Alan Lipsitz, Leighton Lord, Burnie Maybank, Susi McWilliams, Rick Mendoza, Ed Menzie, Billy Newsome, James Potter, Matthew Roberts and John Sowards received the designation from their peers.

In six categories, the firm has more attorneys listed than any other firm in Columbia.

Top-Listed in Columbia, SC in Copyright Law
Top-Listed in Columbia, SC in Mergers & Acquisitions Law
Top-Listed in Columbia, SC in Patent Law
Top-Listed in Columbia, SC in Securities / Capital Markets Law
Top-Listed in Columbia, SC in Securities Regulation
Top-Listed in Columbia, SC in Trademark Law

In all, 62 attorneys from the firm’s eight offices in the Carolinas have been named to the 2012 list.

Attorney	Practice Areas
Ralph Barbier (2011)	Health Care Law
Mark L. Bender (2003)	Corporate Law Mergers & Acquisitions Law
Michael T. Brittingham (2007)	Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law Litigation – ERISA
Henry W. Brown (2003)	Construction Law Litigation – Construction
Russell T. Burke (2003)	Bet-the-Company Litigation Commercial Litigation
David E. Dubberly (2006)	Employment Law – Individuals Employment Law – Management Labor Law – Management Litigation – Labor & Employment
C. Jones DuBose, Jr. (2010)	Corporate Law Mergers & Acquisitions Law Securities / Capital Markets Law Securities Regulation
Victoria L. Eslinger (2001)	Employment Law – Individuals Employment Law – Management Family Law Labor Law – Management Litigation – Labor & Employment
William H. Floyd III (2008)	Employment Law – Management Labor Law – Management Litigation – Labor & Employment
Julian Hennig III (2003)	Corporate Law Litigation – Securities Securities / Capital Markets Law Securities Regulation
Timothy L. Hewson (2009)	Health Care Law
Fred L. Kingsmore, Jr. (2003)	Tax Law Trusts and Estates
William Y. Klett III (2006)	Copyright Law Litigation – Intellectual Property Litigation – Patent Patent Law Trademark Law
G. Marcus Knight (2003)	Corporate Law Mergers & Acquisitions Law Securities / Capital Markets Law Securities Regulation
W. Thomas Lavender, Jr. (1995)	Environmental Law
Alan M. Lipsitz (2008)	Banking and Finance Law Financial Services Regulation Law Public Finance Law
W. Leighton Lord III (2009)	Real Estate Law
Burnet R. Maybank III (2009)	Tax Law
Susan P. McWilliams (2005)	Employment Law – Management Labor Law – Management Litigation – Labor & Employment
Julio E. Mendoza, Jr. (2001)	Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law
Edward G. Menzie (1983)	Corporate Law Mergers & Acquisitions Law Real Estate Law Securities / Capital Markets Law Securities Regulation
William G. Newsome III (2008)	Trusts and Estates
James W. Potter (2010)	Environmental Law
Matthew B. Roberts (2009)	Health Care Law
John A. Sowards (2010)	Banking and Finance Law Financial Services Regulation Law
(Year) First year the lawyer was listed. () Attorneys who are listed for the first time.*

Click here to see Nexsen Pruet’s complete listings according to city.

Click here to see all of the firm’s “top-listed” practice areas, including ties.

The Best Lawyers in America® (Copyright 2011 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.) has been published annually since 1983 and is based on an extensive annual peer-review survey. For the 2012 edition, approximately 41,000 attorneys cast almost 3.9 million votes regarding the legal abilities of other their colleagues. Click here for additional information about the selection process.

Nexsen Pruet, LLC is one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, with more than 180 attorneys and offices in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach, S.C. as well as Charlotte, Greensboro, and Raleigh, N.C. Founded in 1945, Nexsen Pruet provides a broad range of legal services to the business community and represents companies and other entities in local, state, national, and international venues. For further information, see www.nexsenpruet.com.

______________________________________________

NAI AVANT PROJECT MANAGES RENOVATIONS AND ADDITIONS

FOR USC SORORITY HOUSE IN COLUMBIA, SC

NAI Avant’s Project Management Division is pleased to announce that Rick Owen, Vice President of Property and Project Management, along with Ross Marple, Project Manager, oversaw the 9,600 square foot addition and renovation to the Alpha Delta Pi sorority house on the University of South Carolina’s campus. Architectural firm, LTC Associates of Columbia, SC designed the new commercial kitchen, dinning hall, and second floor renovations. Mashburn Construction of Columbia, SC served as General Contractors over the project.

About NAI Avant

______________________________________________

NEW GOODWILL LOCATION ON DECKER BLVD OPENS SEPTEMBER 15TH

Facility will include a Goodwill Job Connection to help job seekers find employment.

On Thursday, September 15th, Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina (GIUMSC) will host the Grand Opening of its new store at 2736 Decker Blvd (Fashion Place Shopping Center) in Columbia. The new location, which will be significantly larger than the existing store in the same shopping center and offer a more convenient drive-through donation center, will also offer job search and placement assistance for people who are searching for employment at the new Goodwill Job Connection.

Goodwill Job Connections provide free assistance to help job seekers connect with potential employers and find permanent employment. Services include access to resources like computers and the internet, fax machines, telephones, and job leads and referrals. A trained employment specialist is on site to assist individuals with their job search. Additional services available through Goodwill Job Connections include resume development, interviewing skills, and classes such as Basic Computer Literacy and English as Second Language.

The Job Connection is also a resource for employers. Goodwill can connect employers with pre-screened applicants, provide space for on-site interviewing, or organize and conduct Job Fairs to help fill open positions.

“Ultimately, Goodwill’s mission is to provide the support people need to become independent, contributing citizens in our community,” saidPatrick Michaels, President and CEO of GIUMSC. “The Job Connection makes it easy for someone to find the resources they need and receive guidance to make their efforts most effective.”

This location will be GIUMSC’s 14^th Job Connection in the Upstate and Midlands of South Carolina. Midlands-area Job Connection locations include 6642 Garners Ferry Road in Columbia, 7138 Broad River Road in Irmo, 118 Knoll Station Drive in Lexington, and 1671 Springdale Drive in Camden.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the location will take place at 8:45 am on September 15^th and the store will open to the public at 9:00 am. On Wednesday, September 14^th from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm, GIUMSC will host local business partners and other citizens at a pre-opening reception and private viewing. (Attendees will be asked not to make purchases at this event.)

Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina helps people with disabilities and special needs become independent citizens through education, training, and employment leading to job placement. Last yearr, Goodwill assisted 32,041 people in their quest for independence and created a potential economic impact of over $99.6 million through the wages of the 6,102 people placed into employment.

______________________________________________

NAI AVANT BROKERS LEASE FOR MELLOW MUSHROOM IN LEXINGTON, SC

Rob Lapin, a member of NAI Avant’s Brokerage Team, recently leased approximately 5,000 square feet of retail space to Mellow Mushroom pizzeria restaurant. The new Mellow Mushroom is located at 5364 Sunset Boulevard in Lexington, SC. This is the 2^nd Mellow Mushroom to open in the Columbia area with the other location on Gervais Street, in the Vista.

About Mellow Mushroom

Mellow Mushroom is a pizzeria that started in Atlanta, Georgia and operates as a restaurant franchise with over 100 locations nationwide. Mellow Mushroom specializes in pizza, but also serves calzones, hoagies, salads, and appetizers.

About NAI Avant

______________________________________________

Twelve MG&C Attorneys Selected for 2012 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America

Twelve attorneys from McAngus Goudelock & Courie have been selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2012 edition.

Columbia, S.C.:

Weston Adams III in Appellate Law

Scott B. Garrett in Workers’ Compensation Law

A. Mundi George in Workers’ Compensation Law

J. Russell Goudelock III in Workers’ Compensation Law

Thomas E. Lydon in Banking Law

W. Hugh McAngus in Workers’ Compensation Law

M. McMullen Taylor in Water Law

Charleston, S.C.:

Mark Davis in Workers’ Compensation

Amy Y. Jenkins in Employment Law – Individuals; Employment Law – Management; Litigation – ERISA; and Litigation – Labor & Employment

Greenville, S.C.:

G.D. “Doc” Morgan, Jr. in Insurance Law and Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants

Erroll Anne Y. Hodges in Workers’ Compensation Law

Raleigh, N.C.:

Jack S. Holmes in Workers’ Compensation Law – Employers

Since its inception in 1983, Best Lawyers has become universally regarded as the definitive guide to legal excellence. Because Best Lawyers is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which more than 41,000 leading attorneys cast almost 3.9 million votes on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their practice areas, and because lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed, inclusion in Best Lawyers is considered a singular honor. Corporate Counsel magazine has called Best Lawyers “the most respected referral list of attorneys in practice.”

About MG&C

Founded in 1995, McAngus Goudelock & Courie is a full-service law firm with offices in Columbia, Greenville, Charleston and Myrtle Beach, SC, and Charlotte and Raleigh, NC. The firm’s practice areas include workers’ compensation defense employment, banking and consumer law, administrative law, government relations, construction litigation, commercial litigation, products litigation, business law, real estate law, and health care and regulatory issues. For more information about MG&C, visit http://www.mgclaw.com or call 803.779.2300.

______________________________________________

CALLISON TIGHE’S TIGHE, ROBINSON, SHUTT, BURNETTE NAMED BEST LAWYERS

Four Callison Tighe members – Michael W. Tighe, Ralph Robinson, Nekki Shutt and M. Malissa Burnette – have been selected for the 2012 edition of The Best Lawyers in America, one of the oldest peer-reviewed publications in the legal profession.

The attorneys were recognized in five practice areas:

Tighe: Real Estate Law

Robinson: Real Estate Law

Shutt: Employment Law, Individuals; Employment Law, Management; Litigation, Labor & Employment

Burnette: Employment Law, Individuals; Litigation, Labor & Employment; Mediation

Selection to Best Lawyers is based on an exhaustive and rigorous peer-review survey comprising more than 3.9 million confidential evaluations by the top attorneys in the country. Since its inception in 1983, the annual, advertisement-free publication has been described by The American Lawyer as “the most respected referral list of attorneys in practice.” It reaches the largest and most targeted audience of any peer-review listing in the legal profession.

The Best Law Firms in America, a companion publication co-produced with US News, is scheduled to be released in the fall. Callison Tighe & Robinson was honored in the 2011 edition of Best Law Firms.

About Callison Tighe & Robinson, LLC

Callison Tighe & Robinson, LLC has 16 attorneys whose practice areas include trials and appeals in all state and federal courts in South Carolina; litigation; commercial real estate transactions and real estate development; business organization, development and transactions; employment law and employee benefits; workers compensation; local government law and government litigation; alternative dispute resolution; appellate practice; and wealth management. The firm also has a major title insurance defense practice, representing both insurers and insureds in litigation. For more information, visit www.callisontighe.com.

______________________________________________

The Palmetto Artist Series presents GLAD in concert, Friday, September 23, 2011 at 7:30 PM.

One of Christian music’s most enduring vocal bands for the past 30 years, GLAD brings its classical/jazz leanings and complex vocals to the Midlands. Long known for its impeccably arranged vocals, layered harmonies, and instrumental and vocal versatility, this four man ensemble brings a wide range of musical genres—including hymns and original tunes–to our stage in a primarily a cappella concert. You’ll have no regrets about attending this event!

Tickets are $12.00 and are available on line, www.sapc.net/pas, by calling 803-732-2273 at the church office or at the door.

The event takes place on the campus of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 6952 St. Andrews Road, Columbia, South Carolina. For more information visit www.sapc.net, e-mail music@sapc.net or call 803-732-2273 ext. 210.

______________________________________________

2011 TOUR OF HOMES will be held Saturday and Sunday,

September 17, 18, 24, 25 and October 1 & 2

Columbia’s Largest Open House of New Homes for Sale is the 2011 TOUR OF HOMES this September 17, 18, 24, 25 and October 1 & 2 from Noon to 6 p.m. The annual scattered-site showing will offer six Featured Communities and 44 new homes for your inspection. The TOUR OF HOMES gives you the opportunity to see the best new home communities and homes in every price range. Columbia’s finest builders and developers will show you their innovative ideas, special design features, dynamic floor plans and fine craftsmanship. While some model homes are decorated and furnished, many of the homes are not. If you are interested in seeing a finished or furnished model, please contact the real estate agent and they will be happy to assist you.

Sixteen builders and developers will participate in the TOUR OF HOMES this year. As you tour their lovely neighborhoods and homes, remember that a new home is still one of the most sound investments you can make. Interest rates are still among the lowest they’ve been in the last 25 years, so now is one of the best times to buy a new home. Perhaps one of the homes or communities you see will be the one that is perfect for your family.

The six Featured Communities on the TOUR OF HOMES are Cherokee Village, Concord Park, Lake Carolina, Lexington Villas, Peach Grove Villas, and Saluda River Club.

Builders in the TOUR OF HOMES are Blythe Building Company, LLC, Carolina Country Homes, Crown Communities, Inc., Ensight Homes, Epcon Communities, Essex Homes, Inc., Fortress Builders, Hallmark Homes/Inspired Communities, Holiday Builders, Hurricane Construction, Inc., Lake Carolina Properties, Inc., Lifestone Residential, Paradime Construction, Inc., Rymarc Homes, Shumaker Homes, Inc., and Village Green Builders.

Plan books featuring all of the homes and Featured Communities on the TOUR will be available at all Russell & Jeffcoat Real Estate locations and at all of the six Featured Communities at no charge. Once you get the book, plan your route and go see some new homes. The TOUR OF HOMES will be open Saturday and Sunday, September 17, 18, 24, 25 and October 1 & 2 from Noon to 6 p.m. and is free to visit. Get more information at www.columbiabuilders.com

We hope that when you make the decision to buy or build a new home, or renovate your present home, you’ll trust your investment to one of the members of the Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia.

About HBAGC: The Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia (HBAGC) is a non-profit professional trade association founded in 1957 for the purpose of maintaining high professional standards in the residential construction industry. Based in Columbia, SC, it is comprised of over 800 builder and associate firms representing over 7,500 industry professionals involved in home building, remodeling, multifamily construction, property management, subcontracting, design, housing finance, building product manufacturing and other aspects of residential and light commercial construction. The HBAGC is affiliated with the Home Builders Association of South Carolina and the National Association of Home Builders and is ranked by size in the top 25 of nearly 800 local Home Builders Associations in the country. During a typical year, residential construction accounts for about five cents of every dollar spent in the U.S. economy, making home building one of the largest and most influential industries in the country.

Improving CAE Service Takes Flight under the Leadership of the Midlands Business Community

Posted on September 8, 2011 by Nicole Curtis

The Midlands business community is conducting a survey to help the Columbia Metropolitan Airport better understand the dynamics of the market: where do Midlands business travelers most frequently travel to, how often do they need to travel to these markets, how often are they using alternate airports and why, and a review of travel budgets. The business community is hoping that with this data, airport executives will be able to provide improved services to corporate travelers.

The data will be used to:

analyze aircraft sizes currently in the market and determine what changes need to be made to upgrade the sizes of the aircraft thus adding additional seats to that market
analyze the need for new air service to a potential new market if it is evident that there is strong demand for that destination
analyze the need to add flights to markets already served at CAE.

We are relying on YOU in order to help us get this initiative off the ground. It is imperative that we secure the support of our corporate travel community to continue air service improvements moving forward. This support begins with a strong number of responses to this survey so the airlines will have substantial factual data. If you fly for business, please click on the link below and complete the survey. With your help, we can improve travel for all.

Columbia Chamber Blog

Monthly Archives: September 2011

Member News | Sept. 26 – Sept. 30

Leadership Columbia to be Honored at “The Good Night” for Outstanding Humanitarian Impact on the Community

Midlands Angel Investor Network – MAIN

Member News | Sept. 19 – Sept. 23

Columbia Chamber Honors Ray Tanner at 2011 Annual Gala

Watch it now.

Future Leaders of Columbia Take to the High Ropes at Leadership Columbia Class Retreat

Ignite… Back to blow you away.

Member News | Sept. 12 – Sept. 16

Member News | Sept 2 – Sept 9

Improving CAE Service Takes Flight under the Leadership of the Midlands Business Community

Take the survey here.

Follow “Columbia Chamber Blog”