Member News | May 13-18

COLUMBIA MUSEUM OF ART SHOWCASES THE GREATEST HITS FROM MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY COLLECTION

The Columbia Museum of Art showcases Modern & Contemporary Art from the Collection beginning August 2012, featuring over 30 paintings, drawings, photographs and sculptures that will remain on view indefinitely.

“Since arriving at the Columbia Museum of Art six months ago, it has been a pleasure discovering the depth and quality of the Museum’s collection,” chief curator, Will South, said. “The collection is so rich in number that for some time the museum’s modern and contemporary holdings have been in storage. For our visitors to have the most diverse and exciting experience possible here at the CMA, some of these greatest hits need to be back out and that’s what’s happening.”

Long-time CMA members will also find old friends on view, including works by Jasper Johns, Howard Thomas, Sally Mann and Edward Ruscha, whose famous image of the Hollywood Hills on view has become a staple of the art world.

“Modern & Contemporary from the Collection offers experiences both serious and sensual, designed to both entertain and enlighten,” South said.

Among the earliest works of art on view in Modern & Contemporary Art from the Collection is Leon Kelly’s energetic abstraction influenced by the then-new and radical art movement, Cubism. Kelly’s early embrace of Cubism was shared by a small, but enthusiastic number of Americans who were excited about the possibilities opened up by Cubism: objects are always viewed and understood from different angles and over time, so why not include time and space into image-making? Thinking in this way resulted in canvases that were baffling to the public when first made as they showed a flat surface fractured into space that analyzed objects with movement and changeability in mind. Kelly’s work is a classic American response to one of the most important art movements and a good starting place for visitors to either revisit Cubism or begin to appreciate it for the first time.

The dramatically large and brightly colored Gene Davis piece is in the same gallery. While early abstraction usually involved a figure or a still life as a point of departure, by the mid-20th century, artists were well versed in using color and shape alone to express complex ideas and emotions. Davis’ imposing canvas is visually scintillating with line after line vying for the mind’s attention. The purpose of such painting was not to describe known things such as a cat or a cup or a flaming sunset, but rather to orchestrate color (much as one would orchestrate musical notes, which are completely abstract and no one ever questions that fact) to stimulate a viewer’s reactions, reactions that need not (or cannot be) put into words. Artists often say that if they could write about what it was they felt, they would. Instead, they paint it.

As the 20th century moved on, art movements of all kinds emerged, often known as “isms”: Cubism, Fauvism, Surrealism, and Abstract Expressionism among them. Lionel Gilbert’s sensually compelling Breakfast Table is a prime example of how an artist fuses stylistic sources. Here, visitors see glimmers of Cubism in the faceted planes that make up the compote and cups, while the bold and paint-laden brush of Abstract Expressionism is present, too. Touches of arbitrary color speak to the influence of Fauvism. While Gilbert’s painting is a visual delight, it is also an object lesson on how artists think: good results often come from the blending of influences that came before us.

Small abstract oils by nationally recognized artist Pat Steir are also on view for the first time. These small, effervescent canvases, in the same vein as the large Gene Davis, exploit the potential of color alone as a path to expression. As opposed to Davis, Steir does not control the shapes and edges of color at all, but rather lets color flow down and around randomly, allowing gravity and chance to play a part in the mark making. The result is a series of fresh, glowing images that the artist arrived at after intense study of color. All of the works by Pat Steir are recent gifts from the nationally-known collectors, Herbert and Dorothy Vogel.

Modern & Contemporary Art from the Collection is located in the Lipscomb Family Galleries 5 & 6 on level one. For more information, visit columbiamuseum.org.

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AHA Recognition for Gibbons

Julian Gibbons, vice president for Community and Governmental Relations, has been honored as a 2012 Grassroots Award winner by the American Hospital Association. The award recognizes the exceptional work by Gibbons and Regina Brown in generating grassroots and community activity in support of a hospital’s mission. Congratulations

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NAI AVANT BROKERS SALE OF 18 ACRES TO WILCO-HESS,

HARDEEVILLE, SC

(May 14, 2012) Cam Kreps, a member of NAI Avant’s Senior Brokerage Team, recently brokered the sale of an 18 acre Land Tract in Hardeeville, South Carolina. Kreps represented the purchaser, Wilco-Hess in the transaction valued at approximately $2,550,000.

The site is located at the intersection of Highway 17 and I-95 (Exit 5) in Jasper County.  Wilco-Hess owns and operates 350 stores in 7 States. Construction of the new $7.5 million Travel Plaza will commence immediately and Wilco-Hess plans to make 50 new hires in the area; full and part-time.

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 Global is the largest independent commercial real estate service provider worldwide and a wholly owned subsidiary of C-III Capital Partners. 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.

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NAI AVANT BROKERS 15,000 SQUARE FOOT INDUSTRIAL LEASE ON BLUFF ROAD, COLUMBIA, SC

COLUMBIA, SC (May 17, 2012) Dick Stanland, CCIM, SIOR, GRI, and Nick Stomski, SIOR, recently consummated a 15,000 square foot Industrial Lease on Bluff Road. Stanland and Stomski represented the Landlord.  Masthead Industries, Inc currently occupies the space and extended its commitment.

About NAI Avant

NAI Avant’s commercial real estate business is one of the largest inthe 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 Global is the largest independent commercial real estate service provider worldwide and a wholly owned subsidiary of C-III Capital Partners. 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.

Contact: Bruce Harper, President and Broker-In-Charge, Columbia Office, 803-744-9805, or bharper@naiavant.com

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For Immediate Release

On June 14^th at 10 AM in the Palmetto Room at the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, RVSoft Incorporated, of Columbia will launch a brand new web portal designed in partnership with the Tourism Department of the Republic of Maldives. The portal site contains in-depth information on the Maldives, including a business network, sales of Maldives items through e-commerce, an online broadband channel, and an online newspaper. The Maldives online portal site was developed using the powerful Comaxiam Content Management System (CMS) version 8, new software that allows for a large database of editable content controlled by the client.

The launch of the Maldives online site is being held here in Columbia in order to showcase our exciting new Content Management System and new E-Commerce software—both of which are state of the art technology. The CMS software allows clients to have dynamic websites that they can easily change themselves. In addition, our highly advanced E-Commerce platform works with almost all payment bridges for credit card companies, Paypal and Google payment methods.

Our RVSoft/Comaxiam CMS software is very easy to use—if clients can use Microsoft Word, they can make all the changes they will ever need to their websites without outside assistance. Unlike other content management systems, Comaxiam CMS 8 allows pure content changes from the front side of the website, as opposed to the less user-friendly backend versions utilized by most other systems. On the backend of our CMS platform, clients can make site changes like banner changes and flash animation, all of which are impossible in standard CMS formats.

The website framework is also Search Engine Optimization friendly, with digital marketing tools included in the framework. Email blasts, social media integrations, metatag creation, web content changes, search engine analytics, social media marketing tools, and digital advertisements can all be managed by the site owner.

We think Comaxiam CMS 8 will create a website revolution, allowing small businesses to save money and advertise in many ways through internet technology. We are pleased that the Republic of Maldives has partnered their Tourism site with us to allow RVSoft, Inc. to showcase our new software in a truly global application. We invite all media members and interested parties to attend the launch.

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COLUMBIA MUSEUM OF ART ANNOUNCES THREE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN FURTHERING ITS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

COLUMBIA, SC - The Columbia Museum of Art has seen tremendous growth since moving to Main Street in 1998. Thousands of people have visited the Museum and in 2010, a daily attendance record of over 2,000 people visited the CMA. As the Museum continues to grow its audiences, the board and staff look to the future with excitement and anticipation, as evidenced by a new strategic plan. This plan is a blueprint for the goals and strategies over the next three years, with its foundation being the overarching goal of community engagement. To reinforce this strategy, the CMA defined four supporting goals, refreshed the mission and vision statements, defined core values and established guiding principles. The plan employs measurable outcomes in support of the CMA’s commitment to be an audience-based, audience-relevant and audience-centered organization.

“We are eager to further our community engagement and impact throughout the state,” Karen Brosius, executive director, said.

The plan was developed in collaboration with a broad range of people including community leaders, board members, staff and museum planning consultants, VernerJohnson of Boston. In the last 18 months, the CMA put an emphasis on learning about audience, member and community perceptions of the Museum, their expectations, and what they want to see the CMA offer and do. “We want to be visitor and community centered in all that we do going forward,” Joelle Ryan-Cook, deputy director, said.

In order to provide critical background information for planning, visitor research was conducted using formal and informal surveys of the Museum audience, community and even non-visitors. Additional information was gathered through board and staff retreats, interactive audience games during programs and events, social media engagement strategies and focus groups.

The Museum also participated in the Association of Art Museum Directors mapping project, which is supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. This project documents all education, community, and business partnerships, as well as members and donors. The most essential benefit of the project is to communicate the extent of the CMA’s service, impact and value in all sectors of society. This project shows a broad base of engagement across community, civic and educational institutions.

“The maps illustrate a growing public interest in the CMA from a larger geographic area, in addition to the capital city. We’re more than the “Columbia” Museum of Art and serve communities throughout the state, and to an extent, the region,” Brosius, said.  The map below shows education, community, and business partnerships the CMA has engaged over the last three years. Over 500 touch points, including schools, community, civic and service organizations, libraries, senior groups, colleges/universities, faith-based groups, youth groups, cultural organizations and corporations represent the CMA’s broad reach.

The strategic plan, new mission and vision statements and results of the mapping project were formally announced on Thursday, May 17, at the 61st annual membership meeting in conjunction with the Columbia Art Association’s 96th annual meeting. Board president Duncan McIntosh officiated the meeting, which included the announcement of the board officers for 2012-2013.

Luther J. Battiste, III serves as president with R. Scott McClelland, vice-president; Dr. Suzanne Thorpe, secretary; and Joel A. Smith, III treasurer.

At the meeting, the following trustees were elected to serve for the Class of 2015: Lisa Arnold, Tom Collins, Dr. Carolyn Kressler-Greenberg, R. Scott McClelland, Dr. Allen Montgomery, Ann B. Oliver, Joel A. Smith, III, Dr. Suzanne Thorpe and Brenda Wheeler.

The President’s Award was presented to John Whitehead for his years of continued service and dedication to the Museum and the annual CMA gala.

The Director’s Award for employee of the year was presented to Sara Kennedy, manager of visitor services and technology.

The Chairman’s Award, presented by C. Carroll Heyward, Columbia Museum of Art Commission chair, was presented to Ada “Missy” McIver for her great enthusiasm and involvement in the Museum. She is not only a volunteer, but an outstanding example of a lifelong learner in art.

The Vendor Service Award was given to Michelle Motchos, PE of Stevens & Wilkinson of South Carolina, Inc.

The Docent of the Year Award was given to Susan James for her dedicated service to the Museum’s educational mission.

Mac Arthur Goodwin presented his namesake award for excellence in education in the arts to Josh Keiper, White Knoll High School art teacher.

Additional Information on the Strategic Plan available:

http://www.columbiamuseum.org/newsroom

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Pay Two-for-One Admission with the Return of Toucan Tuesdays at Riverbanks Zoo

Popular Summer Offer Kicks-off June 12 to Benefit Harvest Hope

[Columbia, SC] – Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is pleased to announce the return of Toucan Tuesdays—a partnership with Harvest Hope Food Bank to help feed hungry families in the Midlands.

Every Tuesday this summer, beginning on June 12, two can visit Riverbanks for the price of one with a donation of two cans of non-perishable food to Harvest Hope.

“Harvest Hope is thrilled to partner with Riverbanks Zoo for the third year of Toucan Tuesdays, and we look forward to the outpouring of donated food that will help us so much in our mission this summer,” said Harvest Hope CEO Denise Holland. “It is wonderful that a family-based organization like Riverbanks Zoo can be so instrumental in providing food and comfort to families in need in our community.”

Riverbanks visitors generated nearly 2,000 pounds of food during last year’s Toucan Tuesdays drive.

Buy-one, get-one admission isn’t the only perk guests will receive for visiting on a Toucan Tuesday. Riverbanks will also offer $2 ICEEs and 2-for-1 specials in the Elephant’s Trunk Gift Shop.

In addition, visiting on a Toucan Tuesday is a perfect opportunity to check out the Zoo’s newest pair of residents—Riverbanks’ Komodo dragons. The juvenile dragons, born last August, are now on exhibit in the Desert Gallery of the Aquarium-Reptile Complex.

Toucan Tuesdays will run for 12 consecutive Tuesdays throughout the summer, ending on August 28. The promotion applies to general admission rates only (purchase one admission and get the second for equal or lesser value free; Explorer wristbands and memberships are not included). Donation bins will be located at both the Zoo and Garden entrances. For more information, visit www.riverbanks.org.

About Riverbanks Zoo and Garden: For nearly 40 years, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden has connected individuals, families and groups with the world’s wildlife and wild places. It is the mission of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden to foster appreciation and concern for all living things. Riverbanks is located at 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210. The Botanical Garden entrance is located at 1300 Botanical Parkway, West Columbia, SC 29169. The park is open daily from 9am to 5pm, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Admission is $11.75 for adults, $9.25 for children ages 3 – 12 and free for children 2 and under. Group rates and other discounts may apply. Year-round membership packages are also available. For more information, call Riverbanks at 803.779.8717, visit www.riverbanks.org or www.facebook.com/riverbankszoo.

About Harvest Hope Food Bank: The mission of Harvest Hope Food Bank is to provide for the needs of hungry people by gathering and sharing quality food with dignity, compassion and education. Learn more about Harvest Hope by visiting www.harvesthope.org.

Columbia Chamber Sponsors S.C.-Israel Benefit

Curious about doing business in Israel or maybe you’re ready to find an Israeli partner.

Join the South Carolina-Israel Collaboration and MITA, the Midlands International Trade Association for “The South Carolina-Israel Experience: How the Midlands Can Benefit” from noon-2 p.m. on Thursday, June 7, at the Columbia Marriott Hotel. Cost is $25 per person.

Featured speakers will include Jonathan Zucker, president of the Inter/Tech Group in Charleston and chairman of the collaboration; Tom Vogt, associate vice president for research at USC; Diane Weiner, director of business development for the Israeli company Healarium; and Tom Glaser, president of the American-Israel Chamber of Commerce.

Sponsors for this event include the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, USC/Innovista, the Central South Carolina Economic Development Alliance and Parker Poe Law Firm.

The South Carolina-Israel Collaboration, formed in 2011, has already succeeded in raising our state’s profile in Israel and generating business and research relationships that are beneficial to both sides. A 26-person South Carolina delegation to Israel last November included a significant group from the Midlands, and another such economic development trip is being planned for 2012.

Please RSVP by Friday, June 4 to research@findnewmarkets.com or by phone, (803)-777-1177.

Graduation Imperative Launch | May 8

Want to increase a region’s economic vitality, then increase the number of people in that region who hold college degrees, whether they are 2-year, 4- year, graduate or professional degrees.

Join the public launch of The Graduation Imperative, an effort to increase our region’s college degree attainment, at 10 a.m. May 8 of the steps of the S.C. Statehouse in Columbia.

The Graduation Imperative is a collaborative initiative of the Navigating from Good to Great Foundation, the Central Carolina Community Foundation, COR, and the S.C. Higher Education Foundation in partnership with the region’s colleges and universities.

In South Carolina, nearly 34% of the state’s 2.4 million working-age adults hold at least a 2-year degree. The national rate is 38%.  By 2018 more than 60% of the jobs nationwide are estimated to require at least a two year degree.

Twenty-four percent of the state’s working age population holds bachelor’s degrees against a national average of 28%.  Just by moving to the national average by 2030, South Carolina could see an annual gain of $6.9 billion in personal income, $7.8 billion in gross state product and 44,514 permanent jobs.

Join the effort to improve our region and South Carolina’s college degree attainment rate.

Who are the Columbia region’s most influential women in business?

The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the Columbia Regional Business Report along with EDENS to answer that question at the region’s first Influential Women in Business event on Aug. 23.

Nominations are now open and will close at 5 p.m. on June 29. The program honors local women who have demonstrated professional excellence and leadership in their careers and public service. Nominations are accepted in five categories:  Business Owner/CEO, Executive, Rising Star, Volunteer and Philanthropist.

Nominees must be a resident of or employed in South Carolina and may be self-nominated or nominated by another person.

Sponsors for the program also include the South Carolina Women’s Business Center.

CLICK HERE to nominate an outstanding businesswoman now through June 29^th.

 

Member News | April 16 – 20

Columbia Metropolitan Airport Redoubles Efforts to Support

Small, Minority, and Women Owned Businesses

Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is redoubling efforts to award contracts to and purchase goods and services from small, minority, and women owned businesses.

With 43 businesses providing over 1,500 jobs and countless other opportunities for contracts and services, CAE is an economic force in the Midlands region and recognizes that by supporting these small businesses it can have an even greater impact on the local economy.

Airport director Dan Mann says that engaging more businesses ultimately just makes sense for the airport’s bottom line.  “By widening the range of businesses we look to for contracts and services we’re leveling the playing field and creating a more competitive arena in which all companies can compete for airport business.  Ultimately, this is going to ensure that we’re getting the best quality work at the best rate,” says Mann. “More importantly,” he continues, “This initiative will result in airport business going to a more complete representation of the communities that it serves.”

Business opportunities with CAE range from industrial supplies providers and equipment to financial and promotional.  Businesses that would like to be considered for work with the airport are encouraged to contact Teresa Deliz (t.deliz@columbiaairport.com) and submit their name, the name of their business, their industry, and all contact information.

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NAI AVANT BROKERS SALE OF 4.6 ACRES WITHIN OVERLOOK BUSINESS PARK, WEST COLUMBIA, SC

Tom Milliken, Tombo Milliken and Nick Stomski, SIOR, all members of NAI Avant’s Brokerage Team, recently brokered the sale of 4.6 acres within Overlook Business Park in West Columbia, SC. Stomski represented the purchaser, Two Men and a Truck who plan to utilize the site for construction of their Corporate Headquarters. Tom and Tombo Milliken represented the seller in the transaction valued at approximately $207,000.

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 Global is the largest independent commercial real estate service provider worldwide and a wholly owned subsidiary of C-III Capital Partners. 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 <http://www.naiavant.com/> . Be sure to follow us on Twitter @NAI Avant and like us on Facebook.

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New Employee at Mashburn Construction

Mashburn Construction is pleased to welcome Zach Bearden, RLA, LEED® AP, to the company’s Charleston, SC, office as Business Developer.   Zach graduated from the University of Georgia Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture. He is a LEED Accredited Professional, licensed Landscape Architect in the state of South Carolina, and a Certified Arborist by the International Society of Arboriculture.

Zach is a member of the Congress for New Urbanism, the American Society of Landscape Architecture, the International Society of Arboriculture, and is an associate member of the AIA.  He is an active member of the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce Developers Council, Public Policy Committee, and a recent graduate of Leadership Charleston.  Zach currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Mount Pleasant Rotary Club and the Coastal Executive Committee for ULI South Carolina. In 2009 he was chosen as one of the Charleston Regional Business Journal’s 40 under 40.

Zach lives in Mt. Pleasant with his wife Meredith and son Walker.

Member News | March 26 – 30

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY AWARDS BANK OF AMERICA PLAZA ENERGY STAR CERTIFICATION

For the fourth year in a row Bank of America Plaza on Main Street in Columbia, SC earned the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Energy Star certification.

The EPA introduced this program in 1992, as a way to help citizens save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices. Currently, the Energy Star label is on over 60 product categories including major appliances, office equipment, lighting and home electronics. The EPA recently extended the label to cover new homes, commercial and industrial buildings. This year over 200,000 commercial buildings received the Energy Star certification.

NAI Avant handles all property management and leasing for the 303,156 square foot office building.

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 Global is the largest independent commercial real estate service provider worldwide and a wholly owned subsidiary of C-III Capital Partners. 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.

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FREE BBQ Informational Event For New School Opening: Imagine Columbia Leadership Academy

Former South University Site to Become School of Choice

Imagine Schools, one of the nation’s largest charter school organizations, is pleased to host a FREE BBQ for the entire community, where elected officials, community leaders, parents and students will be able to receive information regarding Columbia’s newest free school of choice. The former South University location will provide a safe, high-quality learning environment for Columbia’s children.

WHAT: FREE Informational BBQ Event Open to the Public

WHO: Suezan Turknett, Principal, Imagine Columbia Leadership Academy

Diane Beatty, Executive Vice President, Imagine Schools

Dr. Cecil Taliaferro, Board Chair, Imagine Columbia Leadership Academy

Columbia Chamber of Commerce Representatives

Other community and business leaders, parents, and students

WHEN: Saturday, April 14 from 12pm to 4pm

WHERE: 3810 North Main Street, Columbia, SC 29203  

FOR INFORMATION: Contact Suezan Turknett, Suezan.Turknett@imagineschools.com

MEDIA NOTES: Media are welcomed and asked to check-in upon entry to event.

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Columbia Design League presents a Columbia Museum of Art community gallery installation featuring 2011 Runaway Runway designers

The Columbia Museum of Art showcases the Columbia Design League’s 2011 Runaway Runway event in a community gallery installation featuring 11 outfits from 9 designers:  Alexis Doktor, Susan Lenz, Liz Melendez and Kirkland Smith, Miles Purvis, Deana Rennick, Lani Stringer, Kyle Taylor, and The Real Housewives of Crystal Pines. The installation is on view Friday, April 6 – Sunday, June 3, 2012.

From a bubble wrap gown to a Mad Hatter spin-off, these creations feature post-consumer materials, range in theme and materials and are wild eco-friendly fashions! Learn about the conceptual and construction process behind each outfit through this installation, with an opportunity to meet and speak with the designers at a free Meet the Designer Reception on Friday, April 6, 2012 at 6:00 p.m.

The Columbia Design League’s Runaway Runway is a unique fashion competition that raises design and environmental awareness through post-consumer materials constructed into wildly fantastic wearables, and to, “Strut your Junk” down the runway.  While the entire world is serious about being green, this event proves going green can be fun, fabulous, and fashionable.  The competitive fashion show features outfits created by individuals and groups using items destined for the landfill. 

Columbia Design League

The Columbia Design League is a membership affiliate of the Columbia Museum of Art. The mission of the Design League is to promote passion for design excellence and understanding of design’s broad impact on our community.

Community Gallery

The purpose of the David Wallace Robinson, Jr. Community Gallery is to offer support to organizations that include the arts in their outreach programs, but whose mission is not primarily the arts. The Columbia Museum of Art is pleased to be able to offer this venue to encourage participants in these organizations and as a means of supporting our community. 

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Palmetto Payroll Solutions is pleased announce that it can now serve the local business even better! With our new QuickBooks interface, clients can easily and seamlessly upload payroll information into their bookkeeping accounts through a file sent to them each payroll period. This service will save the client time and money. In addition, Palmetto Payroll Solutions offers simple and cost effective time and attendance solutions for those clients who desire either time clock or online timekeeping.

Palmetto Payroll Solutions is proud to be a long time member of the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce. Always locally owned and operated, Palmetto Payroll Solutions is located in downtown Columbia and primarily serves the greater Columbia metro area, including the Irmo, Lexington, West Columbia/Cayce and Chapin areas. In addition to providing complete and efficient payroll services at competitive prices, Palmetto Payroll Solutions strives to build long-standing relationships with each of their clients.

Palmetto Payroll Solutions has been providing payroll services to local business for over 16 years and understands the unique needs of the small and mid-size company. Every employee at Palmetto Payroll Solutions lives, works, and shops locally; and encourages their clients to do the same. Customer service and client satisfaction is a paramount priority at Palmetto Payroll Solutions.

Palmetto Payroll Solutions is constantly looking for innovative ways to save their clients time and money. To this end, they have developed several local business partnerships which will allow them to connect their clients to other payroll related services such as HR services, 401k, health and property insurance, workers compensation, and more. By continuing to focus specifically on payroll yet developing relationships with these partners, Palmetto Payroll Solutions becomes your one stop, full service, local payroll solution!  For more information, visit our website at www.palmettopayroll.com  or  contact  Sharon Czeresko by phone (803)422-5503 or e-mail SharonC@palmettopayroll.com  today for a no cost, no obligation, evaluation of your current payroll needs.

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NAI AVANT BROKERS 12,000 SQUARE FOOT INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE LEASE

IN WEST COLUMBIA, SC

NAI Avant’s Lee Marsha, III, Senior Broker, recently consummated 12,000 square feet of Industrial Warehouse space at 3275 Sunset Boulevard (Highway 378) in West Columbia, SC. Gold Cross Ambulance Service, LLC will occupy the space. Marsha represented the landlord in the 7 year lease transaction

With over 20 years of commercial real estate experience, Lee Marsha focuses much of his attention on office, industrial/manufacturing and development properties. He is also actively involved in land sales for investment and development providing site selection services for both regional and national clients.

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 Global is the largest independent commercial real estate service provider worldwide and a wholly owned subsidiary of C-III Capital Partners. 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.

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1×1 Design Announces the Addition of Anna Gray to the Team

1×1 Design is pleased to announce that Anna Gray, IIDA, LEED AP ID + C has joined the team.  Anna is a Columbia native, earning her Bachelor of Arts Degree with a concentration in Interior Design from Winthrop University in 2005.  Anna received her NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualifications) Certification in 2008 and became a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Accredited Professional in 2009. 

Anna brings nine years of project experience, ranging from masterplanning to interior renovation and upfit projects, as well as historic preservation and new construction. 

“I am thrilled to have Anna as the second member of the 1×1 Design team,” states Asheley Scott, firm President.  “She brings a fantastic set of skills to the firm, both broadening existing areas of expertise and creating new opportunities for the firm.  Being a young firm, everything is constantly in motion, yet Anna has already proven that her flexibility and attitude will be an asset to the firm and to our clients.”

In the community, Ms. Gray is active in many organizations. She led the IIDA Columbia City Center in a variety of community activities including teaming with HomeWorks of America to complete home renovations and the Epworth Children’s Home BBQ Cookoff to raise money for the Children’s Home.

Ms. Gray is engaged to be married in May 2012.

For more information, visit www.1x1design.com or stop by and see us at our new location, 221 Pickens Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29205.

About 1×1 Design:

1×1 Design provides design and planning services for a range of residential and commercial clients, focusing on innovative design and delivery services, strong client relationships and the development of the professionals which it employs.  

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Columbia Museum of Art Contemporaries host  

Artist of the Year Soirée and Silent Auction on Friday, April 13

annual event honors emerging artists in South Carolina 

The Columbia Museum of Art Contemporaries host the ninth annual Contemporaries’ Artist of the Year Soirée and Silent Auction on Friday, April 13 at 7:00 p.m. The event, established in 2004, is designed to increase awareness of and support for nearly 60 emerging artists in South Carolina. Tickets for the CAY Soirée and Silent Auction are $30 / $15 for Contemporaries members and includes food, drinks, music and a performance by members of the USC Opera. To purchase tickets, visit columbiamuseum.org.

This year, the jury includes – Executive Director of Redux Contemporary Art Center in Charleston, SC, Janie Askew; Professor of modern art history and theory, Brad Collins; Museum curator of decorative arts, Brian Lang; and Assistant Director and Chief Curator at the Sumter County Gallery of Art, Frank McCauley. The jury selects the artwork to be in the silent auction and also selects one winner, the Contemporaries’ Artist of the Year, based upon the following criteria: originality of concept, technical execution, consistency, professionalism and the degree to which the work was aesthetically interesting.

The CAY award is generously supported by Anne and Alex Postic and a matching gift from the Contemporaries. The winner receives a cash prize of $2,500.  Event guests vote on the People’s Choice award, and the winner is presented with an award and a cash prize of $300.  Jasper Magazine is sponsoring the “State-of-the-Art” award, which includes a $200 cash prize and a feature in an upcoming issue of Jasper.

About the Contemporaries

The Contemporaries mission is to provide an opportunity to support the Museum through: promoting the Museum and its programs, diversifying the Museum’s membership, and leading the next generation of Museum supporters. A portion of the proceeds from the Artist of the Year Soirée goes toward the Contemporaries’ Art Acquisition Fund, designed to acquire a significant piece of art for the Museum. For more information about Contemporaries’ membership, visit www.columbiacontemporaries.com or call 803.343.2197.

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Fifteen McNair Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in South Carolina Super Lawyers 2012 

McNair Law Firm, P.A. is pleased to announce that fifteen attorneys have been selected by their peers for inclusion in South Carolina Super Lawyers 2012^® including two that were selected as South Carolina Rising Starts 2012^®.  Only five percent of the lawyers in the state are named by Super Lawyers^®.  With areas of practice, those selected in McNair’s Columbia office are:

In its Columbia Office

Michael M. Beal – Bankruptcy & Creditor/Debtor Rights

Elizabeth M. Crum – Health Care

M. Craig Garner, Jr. – Health Care

Celeste T. Jones – Health Care

Richard J. Morgan – Employment & Labor

Jane W. Trinkley – Health Care

About Super Lawyers^®

Super Lawyers^® undertake a rigorous multi-phase selection process that includes statewide survey of lawyers, independent evaluation of candidates by the attorney-led research staff, a peer review of candidates by practice area, and a good-standing and disciplinary check.  For more information about South Carolina Super Lawyers^®, visit www.superlawyers.com.

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.  For more information about the firm, see www.mcnair.net. 

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RVSoft, Inc Stages Ribbon Cutting

RVSoft, Inc. Technology Solutions will hold a ribbon cutting at their new offices on April 12, 2012 at 10AM. The business is located at in Suite 1-7 in the Benedict College Business Development Center, located at 2601 Read Street in Columbia. Members of the Chamber and the business community are invited to attend. (Refreshments will be served and there will be a drawing for a free website.) We hope to see you here.

RVSoft, Inc. was established in 2011 as a subsidiary of the Real Value group of companies. Our corporate headquarters is in Columbia, but we have offices and clients around the world. We offer cutting edge technology in software development, database and website design, integrated information systems, e-commerce, research and technology. We have designed software products specifically for church organizations, educational systems, the medical profession, small businesses and corporations, including website design and computer support. 

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April is Autism Awareness Month and new reports by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to be released as early as tomorrow are expected to show autism rates are on the rise.

Over two years ago, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported alarming autism rates of one in every 110 births overall and one in 70 among boys, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. An estimated 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide are affected by autism.

What is Autism?

As described by Autism Speaks, the nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organization, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. They include autistic disorder, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome.

Autism appears to have its roots in very early brain development. However, the most obvious signs of autism and symptoms of autism tend to emerge in children between two and three years of age.

Autism in South Carolina

The Medical University of South Carolina, which participated in collecting data for the CDC study, indicates that prevalence statistics in South Carolina are in line with national averages. With growing rates of diagnoses year after year, services, support and resources for affected families are scarce. Lorri and Dan Unumb, Midlands parents of an 11-year-old, autistic son, Ryan, know this all too well. 

In June 2007, joined by diligent parents, families and other concerned citizens, the Unumbs were instrumental in the passage of Ryan’s Law in South Carolina, legislation (named for the Unumbs’ son) that mandates insurance coverage for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for the treatment of Autism. The legislation, which became effective in 2008, requires insurance companies providing fully-funded policies to cover ABA therapy from the time of diagnosis until age 16, up to a maximum of $50,000 per year. Although certain restrictions in the legislation limit its applicability, it has made a tremendous difference for many South Carolinians now able to afford quality treatment.

Lorri Unumb, who is the Vice President for State Government Affairs for Autism Speaks, has helped pass similar legislation in 28 other states.

“I am grateful to the legislators in South Carolina who, in a bipartisan fashion, enacted real relief for families struggling with the costs of autism.  Ryan’s Law has served as a catalyst for autism insurance reform all across the country.  For the past several years, it has been my honor to work full-time with Autism Speaks in ensuring access to quality intervention for all children who need access to care.  These children can make remarkable improvement, many of them becoming indistinguishable from their peers and others making significant gains in quality of life and independence,” said Unumb.

An Answer for Autism in the Midlands

Although there is presently no cure for autism, with proper treatment, many individuals show radical improvement, like Ryan Unumb.

Ryan attends The Autism Academy of South Carolina (AASC), in northeast Columbia, where he receives intensive, individualized treatment using ABA therapy outlined in Ryan’s Law. Since Ryan started AASC last September, the Unumbs have witnessed his astounding progress, including learning to ride a bike, reading, communicating with an iPad, playing games with his peers, completing academic tasks independently and expressing himself through text.

“We know that customizing an intervention program to meet the needs of children like Ryan is the key to their improvement,” says AASC Director Matt Wood. “We work with every family to set individual development goals for their child, then record their daily progress towards reaching those goals. Daily communication between our staff and parents helps everyone work together to promote consistency between home and school.”  

Wood said the center is seeing enormous gains in progress, with a year or more of individually projected developmental goals being accomplished in six months.

AASC offers a year-round program for individuals between the ages of three and 21 with a medical diagnosis of ASD. The center’s mission is to help those with autism acquire the abilities, skills and behaviors necessary to become fully capable members of their communities, ultimately able to prosper without the need for intensive intervention.

Raising Awareness about Autism

The first annual Blues in the Night Autism Awareness Gala will be held Saturday, April 28 at The Palmetto Club in downtown Columbia to raise awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder. Sponsored by the Autism Academy of South Carolina (AASC), the event will honor South Carolinians who have made significant contributions to the autism community. This year, the gala recognizes seven legislators who stood up for autism families by creating the Pervasive Developmental Disabilities Medicaid Waiver and passing Ryan’s Law:

• Representative Nathan Ballentine
• Representative Kenny Bingham
• Representative Skipper Perry (retired)
• Senator Thomas Alexander
• Senator Dick Elliott
• Senator Joel Lourie
• Senator David Thomas

For more information about attending or supporting the Gala or to learn more about AASC, please visit www.autismacademyofsc.com or call (803) 790-7997. Also join us on Facebook.  

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NAI AVANT CONSUMMATES RETAIL LEASE TRANSACTION ON KING STREET IN CHARLESTON, SC

Hudson Rogers with NAI Avant’s Charleston Office, recently consummated a lease transaction at 335 King Street in downtown Charleston, SC. The space is the new home of Shoes at Surrey, LLC. NAI Avant represented the landlord in a five year lease term.

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 Global is the largest independent commercial real estate service provider worldwide and a wholly owned subsidiary of C-III Capital Partners. 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.

Member News | March 19 – 23

BULL AND THE BULL RIDER WILL “WEIGH IN” AT COLONIAL LIFE ARENA ON FRIDAY 3/23 AT 1:00 P.M.

The Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Lucas Oil Touring Pro Division stops in Columbia onSaturday, March 24 at Colonial Life Arena. For one night only, fans will witness thrilling, 8-second rides and jaw dropping wrecks as the PBR’s cowboys risk it all against monstrous animal athletes.

Before these riders open the chutes in Columbia, a ceremonial “weigh in” will be held on the outdoor plaza of Colonial Life Arena. Since its inception, the PBR has recognized that there are two great athletes in every ride. On Friday, March 23, both rider and bull with step on to the scale to give fans a unique statistical insight to the Toughest 8 Seconds in Sports.

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BOBBY HATHAWAY WITH NAI AVANT CONSUMMATES 5 LEASE TRANSACTIONS

IN THE SOUTHEAST

Bobby Hathaway, Retail Specialist with NAI Avant, recently facilitated several lease transactions in Georgia and North Carolina. Centre at Evans in Evans, Georgia, welcomed Palm Beach Tan located at 4435 Washington Street, Suite 110. Shoe Show, Sally Beauty and Shoe Department all renewed leases at Liberty Square in Thomasville, North Carolina. Aaron’s Rental in Roxboro, North Carolina, renewed its lease in Roxboro Commons.

Hathaway has been an active Retail Broker for over 13 years specializing in the sale and leasing of retail properties, and commercial land sales.

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 Global is the largest independent commercial real estate service provider worldwide and a wholly owned subsidiary of C-III Capital Partners. 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.

Columbia Metropolitan Airport Review Hosted by MIDSTATE Chambers Coalition

The MIDSTATE Chambers Coalition hosted Midlands area business leaders for a air transport business review at the DoubleTree Inn, Thursday, March 15. Columbia Metropolitan Executive Director Dan Mann provided the group with an overview of last year’s business survey results, accomplishments and goals for the future.  Mann also took the opportunity to promote two new daily flights out of Columbia as outlined in the Columbia Regional Business Report article (listed below).  Bill Swell, MIT Research Engineer, discussed the economics of today’s commercial air transportation challenges.

Airlines add 2 flights out of Columbia to New York City area

Columbia Regional Business Report
Staff Report | Published March 15, 2012

New flights to the New York City area are on the horizon for passengers flying out of Columbia Metropolitan Airport.

Delta Airlines plans to begin a second daily flight to LaGuardia Airport beginning July 11, Dan Mann, airport executive director, said today at an airport summit of the MIDSTATE Chambers Coalition.

On Sept. 6, United Airlines will begin offering flights two days a week to Newark Airport in Newark, N.J., which serves the New York area, added Mann.

Initial plans call for both United and Delta to offer the service on 50-seat regional jets, Mann said. United will be flying twice a week on Monday and Thursday.

Mann also said the Columbia airport appears to be reversing a slide in passenger traffic.

Over the past eight months, the airport has seen an increase in enplanements — the number of people who board an airplane, Mann said.

In January, airport passenger traffic increased to 35,512 compared with 32,579 for the same month in 2011, a 7.9%, increase, according to the airport’s website. February statistics have not been posted, but Mann said enplanements are up 8% for the year.

The airport is trying to turn around a six-year decline in passenger traffic. Last year, 492,458 passengers boarded flights at Columbia. That was just 140 fewer passengers, or .03% less than 2010’s mark.

Another summit speaker, William Swelbar, a research engineer in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s International Center for Air Transportation, said the good news for Columbia is that the decline appears to have bottomed out and is trending up.

Columbia has steadily lost passenger traffic since 2005 when 732,625 people boarded planes. That was the year when a low-fare carrier, Independence Air, was still in operation. The airline went out of business in January 2006.

Member News | March 12 – 16

SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS RULING IN FAVOR OF SCHOOL BOARD

McNair client to proceed with expansion plans for high school after long legal battle

McNair Law Firm, P.A., announced today that the South Carolina Supreme Court has ruled in favor of its client, School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties, after a long legal battle over plans to renovate and expand one of the school district’s most overcrowded high schools. With this ruling, the school district can proceed with a large-scale renovation of Chapin High School, in Chapin, SC, to accommodate up to 1,700 students. Enrollment has more than doubled  since the school was built 40 years ago to accommodate no more than 600 students.

McNair Law Firm shareholder Pam Baker, a member of the firm’s environmental practice group, served as lead attorney representing the school district in the case along with fellow McNair shareholder Liz Crum.

“We are pleased that the school district finally has a clear path for the much-needed expansion of Chapin High, and we are hopeful that this ruling will also serve as precedent in helping businesses in South Carolina that face situations similar to those of Lexington-Richland Five,” said Pam Baker.

In the case, Kim Murphy v. School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, school board member Kim Murphy filed suit to stop the expansion plans, citing environmental concerns over the filling of a stream on the property. Murphy received support from environmental groups seeking to narrow the scope of projects allowed in wetlands and streams. However, the Supreme Court ruled against Murphy’s argument and affirmed a lower-court order upholding the issuance of a Water Quality Certification to the school district for its expansion plans.

In the court’s decision, writing for a unanimous court, Justice Kaye Hearn wrote that “substantial evidence” supports the school district’s assertion that functionality of the stream would not be impaired by plans to fill a portion of it for the expansion. Justice Hearn also noted that the court agreed with the lower court’s findings that no other feasible alternative to the expansion plans existed that would have less adverse results.

 

Additional Information

This press release was created by McNair Law Firm, P.A. for informational purposes only.  Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome in other cases.

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 legal needs in the Carolinas, especially where business and government interests intersect. For more information about the firm and Pam Baker, visit www.mcnair.net.

Pamela A. Baker, Shareholder

McNair Law Firm, P.A.

1221 Main Street, Suite 1800

Columbia, SC 29201

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Wadsworth Chamber Music Series musicians mentor Richland One students at Columbia Museum of Art on March 22

Artistic director and internationally acclaimed cellist Edward Arron connects with the Columbia community during the Wadsworth Chamber Music Series unique concert experience and even extends that beyond each concert.

“Eddie’s connection to our community is admired by many and he truly makes a difference in the lives of others,” executive director, Karen Brosius, said.

Columbia Museum of Art provides opportunities for students at Hand Middle School, Sanders Middle School and W.A. Perry Middle School in Richland District One through a mentoring program. Students travel to the Museum on March 22 for an exclusive opportunity to meet Arron and other musicians. Through this partnership, students attend a world-class performance and learn about instrumentation, being a professional musician and the individual music selections from this season.

“During the last two years of this program, our students have been engaged at a much higher level and are inspired because of the quality of the musicians and the art,” Nancy Pope, visual and performing arts coordinator at Richland One School District, said. “Eddie leads this program in a very intimate and personal way that is relevant and challenging to the students.”

Following the student program, Arron hosts an evening of chamber music on March 22 at 7:00 p.m. The students and their parents are invited to attend. This concert features pianist Jeewon Park and Violinist Kyung Sun Lee performing works by Handel-Halvorsen, Schumann, Liszt, Piazzolla and Dvorak.

The Columbia Museum of Art believes everyone should have access to dynamic chamber music. A single concert ticket is $35 / $30 for members. All students may purchase tickets for $5. All seats are on a first-come, first-served basis. To purchase tickets, visit columbiamuseum.org
The final concert in the 2011-2012 season is Tuesday, May 1 at 7:00 p.m. Program information is available at columbiamuseum.org.

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NAI AVANT CLOSES 375 ACRE LAND DEAL NEAR COLUMBIA, SC

Tom Milliken and Tombo Milliken, both members of NAI Avant’s Brokerage Team, recently represented the buyer in a 375 acre land closing on Bluff Road near Columbia, South Carolina. The transaction was valued at $882,353.

Tom Milliken has been an active commercial broker with NAI Avant for over 36 years. Tombo Milliken joined NAI Avant in 2011. Both focus their real estate attention on Commercial Properties, Industrial Land, Investment Land and Timberland and Recreational Properties.

 

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 Global is the largest independent commercial real estate service provider worldwide and a wholly owned subsidiary of C-III Capital Partners. 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.

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Southeastern Piano Festival launches
10th anniversary celebration

Join us at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 28 as we announce the sensational offerings for the 10th annual Southeastern Piano Festival. The press conference at the Koger Center for the Arts will unveil the exciting new programs, performances and partnerships that will celebrate the past 10 years.  We’ll reveal more details March 28.

Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin will give welcoming words and speak about the impact the Festival has had on the city. Festival Artistic Director Marina Lomazov, University of South Carolina School of Music Dean Tayloe Harding, South Carolina Philharmonic Music Director Morihiko Nakahara, Jyotindra M. Parekh, owner of Rice Music House, and others involved with the festival will tell you about what promises to be the most unique event yet.

The Southeastern Piano Festival, taking place June 10 – 16, is a nationally acclaimed piano event that attracts audiences from throughout the region. The festival offers a week of concerts by veteran and emerging performers along with top students from around the nation.  Many of the nearly 200 students who have come through the program have gone on to major universities and conservatories and launched concert careers.

Bus Transportation Topic of Discussion

Members of the Citizens for a Greater Midlands (CGM) met on March 7^th to discuss transportation opportunities in the Columbia area.

Dr. Bobby Schneider, Executive Director of CMRTA (Central Midlands Rapid Transit Authority) briefed the group on the status of funding for the bus system and service alternatives.  Paul Livingston, Richland County Council member and Chairman of the Council’s Transportation Committee, briefed the group on the transportation funding process and the Richland County Transportation Committee’s Work Session scheduled for Wednesday, March 14, 2012, 5pm to 7pm, Council Chambers.

Discussions among the group clearly echoed the message asking County Council Members to “put the transportation penny on the 2012 ballot and let the voters decide what they want for the Midlands”. WACH Fox reporter Adam Pinsker interviewed Bob Liming who strongly emphasized that the bus system is critical for business and jobs in our county and we clearly need to fund public transportation.  The CGM encourages county residents to talk with their Council representatives and attend the upcoming work session to show interest and support.