columbia chamber 2010-2011 annual report

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LETTER FROM THE 2010-2011 CHAIR

To our Members and the Midlands Community,

The creation of private sector jobs and the growth of economic pros-perity in the Midlands is the prima-ry mission of the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce. Advocat-ing for the best economic, political, and social environment is the key responsibility of each employee, board member and volunteer.

As we all know, the last few years have presented us with some diffi-cult economic challenges. Regard-less, we are forging ahead as we “Navigate from Good to Great.” This important effort and the imple-mentation of the key initiatives as-sociated with this effort are making a positive impact on the economic and social landscape of our diverse, yet close-knit region.

Over the past year, much has been accomplished. Working on behalf of our members and the region has been important to our success. Together we worked to further strengthen regional cooperation through two key initiatives: part-nering with the Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce to create a greater regional focus; as well as the formation of the MIDSTATE Chambers Coalition which includes 19 chambers from 11 counties. Fur-thermore, we increased our military support, focusing on the protection of our three military bases in the Midlands: Fort Jackson, Shaw and McEntire. These three vital com-ponents of our region contribute more than $7 billion of annual eco-

nomic impact to the Midlands and beyond.

Many of our efforts were invested in the enhancement of the transporta-tion system and infrastructure of the area. We worked with the Colum-bia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to produce surveys to identify travel potential, peak times and routes in order to save our local businesses time and money. We continue to support a penny sales tax for trans-portation to boost economic devel-opment. The resources generated would go to opening landlocked ar-eas of downtown, providing perma-nent funding for the bus system and improving roads and intersections in the county. The Chamber also advocated for interstate improve-ments and connectivity to the Port of Charleston.

We made strides in making the Chamber more efficient and effec-tive, by improving our ability to respond to member needs and feed-back. In other words, we listened intently to the voice of business. Staff members worked tirelessly to expand the SmartBuys program which offers discounts on business services to chamber members. We developed a strategic partnership with Columbia Opportunity Re-source (COR) to house the young professionals group at the chamber and hired Katherine Swartz as vice president for leadership develop-ment and community involvement, to function as COR’s executive di-rector. Her efforts also include the development and cultivation of the next generation of leaders through

Leadership Columbia and Leader-ship Columbia Alumni Association (LCAA) programs.

Additionally, Nicole Curtis joined the team of the chamber to coordi-nate communication. As director of communications, Nicole has intro-duced new communication options to better engage our members on Chamber activities, programs and initiatives.

While we made progress over the past year; there is more work to im-prove the economic and business en-vironment in our region. I encour-age you to join us in this important work. Imagine the city, county and region as the most desirable place to raise a family, educate our children, grow a business, create private sec-tor jobs and enjoy the fruits of our labors.

It is a privilege and honor to serve as your chairman. I am humbled to serve with board members, staff and with many others who support our community. It’s a joy to be one half of the Ike and Mike show.

One last thought, the prophet Jer-emiah commands us to seek the welfare of our city and to pray to the Lord on its behalf; for in its welfare we will have welfare.

May it be so,

Michael R. BrenanChair, Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce

annual report presented by

Greater Columbia Chamber of CommerCe annual report 2010-2011 4

What does the Chamber do?

HigHligHts of CHamber and Community aCComplisHments 2010-2011

Annual Auction & GalaHighlights Ed Sellers as Ambassador of the Year

COR/Chamber Partnership Begins

100 Total Resource Volunteers Wrap-up $1.1 Million Campaign

bringing in 46 New Members

Mike Fanning makesComprehensice Tax Reform Presentation to Columbia &

Lexington Chambers

Cohost Richland County Delegation Dinner with City of

Columbia & Richland County

Annual Golf Tournament hosts

300 Golfers

march ‘11 may ‘11 june ‘11 august ‘11

Launch Business Services Reform Program

Opening of Transitions Homeless Center

Military Affairs Tour of Fort Jackson

Graduate Leadership ColumbiaClass of 2011

Information Technology Council Honors 9 Companies and Individuals in

the Technology Industry

Joint Board of Directors Meeting between Greenville & Columbia

Chambers

Iraqi Women Law Enforcement Luncheon

MIDSTATE Chambers Coalition Launch

Teacher Recognition Breakfast Honors Teachers from 10 Local School Districts

Referendum for Penny Sales Tax to Support

Public Transportation

Strengthen the local economy by researching and providing available resources to grow our local businesses.

Promote the community by marketing the Greater Columbia region as a destination for new business, tourists, young professionals and potential employers.

Provide networking opportunities by organizing and hosting an array of seminars and events for our chamber members.

Represent the interest of business with government by building relationships with governmental agencies and effectively advocating the needs of area businesses.

Build community-wide leadership by encouraging and developing a shared vision for the future of the Greater Columbia region and collectively influencing stakeholders to make it happen.

september ‘10 november ‘10 december ‘10 january ‘11 february ‘11

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Greater Columbia Chamber of CommerCe annual report 2010-2011 | 5

this graphic illustrates the Chamber’s role in our region, our key activities and the initiatives that help us fulfill our mission.

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StRengthen the region’s workforce

through higher education and Columbia Opportunity Resource’s

(COR) support for young professionals

ImPROve public schools

through collaboration with

the midlands education and

Business Alliance (meBA)

CReAte jobs by leveraging

Business in motion, the city/chamber existing business

retention and expansion program

SuPPORt small and

entrepreneurial business

CReAte a vibrant & diverse region - a haven for intellectual capital & investment and an entrepreneurial

mecca

ImPROve the quality of life and create

a sense of place that attracts

corporations, manufacturers and the creative class

geneRAte discussion and

solutions to specific business issues

through the Issues Committee

exPAnd the region’s support

for the economic impact created by

military installations – Fort Jackson,

mcentire & Shaw

AdvOCAte business-friendly

legislation and collaborate with regional partners

on business-related issues

gROW key industry clusters --

such as insurance, nuclear, health care - through

collaboration with new Carolina, engenuitySC

and other partners


Community action and advocacythe Chamber’s advocacy efforts and policy position stands resulted in:

AmAZOnAs the Amazon distribution center in Lexington County came under fire in the local media and was in jeopardy at the South Carolina State House, the Columbia Chamber stood in support of Lexington’s business and elected leaders. We fought for 2,000 jobs and millions of dollars in corporate investment for the Midlands community and were victorious in the late hours just before sine die. The effort rejuvenated the spirit of private enterprise in the Midlands and serves as a true testament to what can be accomplished with regional coalitions working for one cause.

tORt ReFORmAfter fighting for additional reform in tort law in South Carolina for almost a decade, this year we gained more ground including caps on punitive damages. While the South Carolina Civil Justice Coalition has carried the bulk of this mission, the Columbia Chamber with other chambers and business associations were a part of the team. Gov. Nikki Haley provided strong vocal support for the coalition and demanded a pro-business vote for South Carolina via press conferences and direct correspondence with Senate leadership. With several improvements in tort reform law, South Carolina is climbing the ladder of competitiveness nationwide when it comes to business-friendly policy.

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tRAnSPORtAtIOn PortsThe Columbia Chamber has always been an advocate for the ports systems in South Carolina. Charleston and Georgetown are key gateways to manufacturing and distribution for not only South Carolina but also the Southeast region of the United States. Without the expansion and efficiency of the ports, jobs and enterprise would be jeopardized. The chamber is pleased that the study for dredging will be conducted for the Charleston Harbor, however the mission is far from complete. We will continue to push our Congressmen and other leaders in Washington, D.C., to see that the dredging is completed to allow for post-Panamax ships to enter South Carolina’s terminals.

Penny Sales Tax Referendum: CMRTAAfter a thorough four month campaign for the Richland County one cent sales tax, in November of 2010 citizens voted to decline the tax by a narrow margin of 2,200 votes. Since that time, much work has been happening behind the scenes. The Chamber has convened leadership from the City of Columbia and Richland County on a regular basis to plan the future of the bus system regarding imperative pieces of the puzzle: the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA), composition of the board of directors, executive director and operator’s contract. The Chamber continues to serve as a conduit between businesses and the political bodies involved. Together, the goal is to find substantial funds for an innovative public transportation system and to identify the individuals who can carry the vision forward.

Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) Air ServiceThe Columbia Chamber strives to support the development and success of the Columbia Metropolitan Airport. Throughout a long standing relationship with the airport, the business community has worked diligently to encourage travel via CAE and to recruit lower fares to accommodate corporate and leisure travelers in the Columbia area. Recently, the Chamber

along with Midlands Business Leadership Group (MBLG) and the Columbia Metropolitan Airport issued an air service survey for corporate travel in the Midlands of South Carolina. The purpose of the survey is to be able to provide airlines with data that demands better airfares, additional nonstops and additional seats. The questionnaire collects data that will help CAE understand the dynamics of the market, determine most frequent destinations, frequency of travel and the use of alternate airports.

mIdStAte ChAmBeRS COALItIOnAfter the loss of Southwest Airlines to the Upstate and Lowcountry, the business communities of the Midlands began to realize the need for a unified voice for advocacy in the Midstate. Fast forward through dozens of meetings and discussions and in March 2011, the MIDSTATE Chambers Coalition was announced at the SC Statehouse. The organization includes 19 chambers from 11 counties in the MIDSTATE of South Carolina and currently operates with a zero-based budget and no annual dues. Randy Halfacre, president of the Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce, serves as current chairman of the coalition with 19 board members, the president/CEO of each participating chamber.

During a retreat held in late summer of 2011, legislative priorities were determined by the group. The MIDSTATE group will focus on infrastructure and transportation with emphasis on expanding interstate highways, securing infrastructure funding, air service improvements for CAE and the ports expansion and dredging. Additionally the coalition will begin to work on workforce and education initiatives, particular in the areas of nuclear educational and jobs programs. The group desires to create a more business friendly region by opposing all unfunded mandates from state and federal government and focusing on comprehensive tax reform including the repeal of Act 388. Lastly, the coalition will work to continue to support military viability in the Midstate.

Today’s ever-evolving, complex economy and political dynamics make it imperative for our region to take advantage of any and all competitive opportunities.

We recognized the need for regional cooperation in 2010 when Southwest Airlines announced it was “landing” in the Upstate and Lowcountry, leaving one of our Midlands’ economic engines, the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, on life support. This year, the Amazon e-commerce debate reinforced the importance of economic cooperation. We have now AWAKENED! Our region’s economic well-being greatly depends on everyone working together, from both business and political perspectives. The consequent birth of the MIDSTATE Chambers Coalition has established and developed “regionalism.” We must continue on this path for the benefit of us all.

Randy HalfacrePresident & CEO Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Columbia Chamber Ambassador of the Year is the Chamber’s highest honor presented to a local individual. The title is conferred annually on a leader who serves as a role model for business involvement in the community and who has contributed to the image of the local community.

Within the Greater Columbia community, Ray Tanner is highly

Ray TannerHead Coach – baseball university of south Carolina

back-to-back national Champion3 time national Coach of the year

Ambassador of the Year

With his enthusiasm for promoting the Greater Columbia region and dedication to making the area a better place to live, work and play, Ray Tanner truly is a shining example of what an ambassador should be.

Mike Brenan, Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce Board Chair

respected for his leadership, corporate responsibility and public service. A three-time National Coach of the Year and Southeastern Conference Coach of the Year, Tanner has just completed his 15th year as head coach at the University of South Carolina. Tanner has established one of the premier programs in all of college baseball with milestones and accomplishments piling up each season. This summer in Omaha, Neb., the Gamecocks became

only the ninth repeat champion in College World Series history.

Tanner has also helped put Columbia on the international stage. He has served five stints with the USA National Baseball Team, including in 2003 as head coach. He was named the U.S. National Coach of the Year that season. Tanner served as an auxiliary coach for the 2000 Olympic Team that won a gold medal at the XXVII Olympiad in Sydney, Australia. He was also with the 1995 and 1996 USA teams that culminated in a bronze medal win at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, Ga.

But Tanner’s accomplishments and accolades extend far beyond the baseball diamond. He is well known for his philanthropy. In 2005, Tanner and his wife Karen started the Ray Tanner Foundation which supports organizations that care for seriously ill children, the homeless and other charitable causes.

Grant recipients have included the Family Shelter, the Oliver Gospel Mission, the Cooperative Ministry, the Nurturing Center, the South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families, and others.

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

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

The Miracle League now serves more than 200,000 children and young adults with disabilities.

© 2011 Brett Flashnick/Flashnick Visuals, LLC – All Rights Reserved

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Randy Halfacre is a resident of Lex-ington and has served on the Lex-ington Town Council since 1994. He served as mayor pro-tem from December 1998 to December 2000 and was elected mayor in Novem-ber 2004.

In February 2007, Halfacre joined the staff at the Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce as president and CEO. His role as both Mayor and head of the Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce makes him unique and the only known person in the United States to oversee both a town and chamber. Prior to his position with the chamber, Halfa-cre worked with Lesesne Industries from 2000 to 2007 where he special-ized in corporate accounts develop-ment and sales.

Halfacre is very active in his com-munity. He currently serves as a board member of EngenuitySC, a strategic leadership group for re-gional technology, and is a member of the Midlands Business Leader-ship Group, an organization of se-nior executives in Lexington and Richland county working together to address economic development

issues. Halfacre is a past president of the Lexington County Municipal Association and serves as a board member of the Central Midlands Council of Governments, the Lex-ington County Joint Water and Sewer Commission and the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce. He is currently leading an orga-nizational effort in forming the MIDSTATE Chambers Coalition, representing 11 counties in Central S.C. in order to foster and support economic development and public policy initiatives in the region. He also currently serves on the board of directors of the statewide League of Mayors organization, the first of its kind in the state. Halfacre has been a member of several local civic organizations, serving as president of the Lexington Jaycees.

Halfacre attended the University of South Carolina, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in business management in 1970. He graduated from the State Budget and Control Board’s Executive Leadership In-stitute in 1980 as well as the State Municipal Association’s Institute of Government in 1998.

regional Cooperation awardRandy halfacre Mayor, Town of LexingtonPresident & CEO, Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce

Joanie Thresher is the director of USO South Carolina. Thresher opened the USO Columbia Metropolitan Airport Center on June 6, 2010, and has just recently opened a second location on Camp McCrady, Eastover, S.C. The Columbia Metropolitan Airport center provides a home away from home for more than 6,000 military personnel and their families on a monthly basis. Prior to Thresher working for the USO South Carolina, she was a volunteer for the USO Georgia for more than five years.

Thresher is an executive board member of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) as well as a supporter of ESGR, Employer Support for Guard and Reserve. Thresher was born and raised in Jacksonville, Fla., and was employed in the fashion merchandising, marketing and the hotel industries prior to her life with the USO.

Thresher’s passion is taking care of the troops and their families!

military advocate award

Joanie thresherExecutive Director, USOSouth Carolina

I am extremely proud of the way our baseball team has represented the university

and the community. The Columbia region is a big

part of why Carolina baseball has succeeded, our

championships belong to the entire Columbia and

Carolina family.

Ray Tanner

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Rose Jackson was valedictorian of Wilson Hall, a college preparatory school in Sumter, S.C. She gradu-ated magna cum laude in 1980 from Columbia College. Subsequently, Jackson received her masters of public administration from the Uni-versity of South Carolina.

After working with several blue chip corporations, Jackson pioneered into entrepreneurship by starting her own financial services company which has served the Midlands and Pee Dee areas since 1993. Additionally, she founded the South Carolina Women In Business (SCWIB), a non-profit corporation dedicated to empowering female entrepreneurs in every stage of business through providing revenue development, mentoring, cutting–edge education, and cultivation of strategic alliances. For 10 years, women proprietors throughout our state have commercialized their ideas and produced financially-viable freestanding businesses because of the SCWIB.

In recognition of her economic development efforts, Jackson was

named the 2006 Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Advocate and the 2008 U. S. Small Business Administration Women in Business Champion for South Carolina.

Jackson’s advocacy efforts also extend to the next generation of business owners of her alma maters. Many young women have acquired entrepreneurial skills by Jackson implementing Junior Achievement at Wilson Hall which awarded her the 1996 Alumna of the Year Award. Furthermore, due to Jackson’s endeavors as the chairperson of the Columbia College Loyalty Fund, business studies and leadership training have been offered to numerous students.

Jackson’s accomplishments are di-rectly linked to valuable connections established through the Greater Co-lumbia Chamber Commerce with small businesses and corporations. Jackson has served as chairperson of the diplomat program, and she garnered the organization’s 2007 Diplomat of the Year award.

diplomat of the year awardRose JacksonOwner, Rose E. Jackson Financial ServicesFounder, South Carolina Women In Business

Tara Williams is the business development manager for AllSouth Federal Credit Union where she has been employed since 2006. As business development manager, she is responsible for promoting AllSouth in the community and establishing and maintaining relationships with the credit union’s business affiliates.

A 2005 graduate of Leadership Columbia, Williams is actively involved as a volunteer with both the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce. With the Columbia Chamber, she serves on the Leadership Columbia Board, is on the 2011 Silent Auction Committee and volunteers for the Total Resource Campaign. Williams was named Top Producer of the Year in 2009 and 2010 for the Total Resource Campaign. At the Sumter Chamber, Williams serves on the Ambassador Committee, chairs the Minority Business Outreach Council and volunteers for the Total Resource Campaign. In 2011, she was named Ambassador of the Year for the Sumter Chamber.

In addition to volunteering with local chambers of commerce, Williams also serves on the board for the Family Shelter, and is a member of the Advisory Board at Virginia College. She is an active volunteer for Sistercare and has participated in the mentoring program at Killian Elementary School for the past four years.

Williams holds a bachelor of science degree in business administration from Lander University and is a member of Bibleway Church of Atlas Road.

young professional of the year awardtara WilliamsBusiness Development ManagerAllSouth Federal Credit Union


The Navigating from Good to Great Foundation has changed the community conversation throughout the Columbia region. Since launching in 2008, its mission has been to transition the local community from “Good to Great” by aligning behind a single message: unity of purpose and effort. No one entity alone can raise our region to greatness, but united we can unify the region and rise to greatness together.Our Foundation has already begun to break down silos and demonstrate that together we can make a change. Differing groups now come together to discuss common problems and discover shared solutions. In doing so, our region is becoming a community of change agents.

This past year has seen significant community accomplishments on our road to greatness:

HomelessnessThe community celebrated the grand opening of Transitions, a comprehensive homeless service center located in downtown Columbia at Main

Street and Elmwood Avenue. The center marks the culmination of years of work and collaboration between the Midlands Business Leadership Group, Midlands Housing Alliance, Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, the Foundation, the United Way and countless other community partners.

Interregional CooperationThe Foundation announced it would fund a position at the Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce. Bill Banning, Lexington County councilman, was hired as the regional development manager. In this position, Banning will be responsible for creating a greater awareness of the foundation’s mission and accomplishments and for accelerating efforts of regional cooperation. Banning will work under the supervision of Lexington Chamber President Randy Halfacre. Banning will also focus his efforts on the Greater Lexington business community and local government.

Intergovernmental CooperationA task force of representatives of the City of Columbia, Richland County and the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce is working to reform business services – i.e., permitting, licensing, etc. – at both the city and the county. The effort is a direct result of the Foundation’s existing Business Retention and Expansion, or BR&E, program Business in Motion, a collaborative with the City of Columbia.

Business Retention & ExpansionThe BR&E program has now surveyed more than 300 businesses in the region. This past year it began the process of creating a workforce development program, in conjunction with the Midlands Education and Business Alliance, for diesel systems manufacturer PurePower Technologies. In addition, the BR&E program has begun to do industry segmented surveys for the region’s insurance and technology services cluster and its nuclear cluster.

navigating from good to great Unity of Purpose and Effort

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Cluster DevelopmentThe Foundation continues to work with partners EngenuitySC and New Carolina on the development of regional industry clusters. Work this past year focused on iTs|SC: Columbia’s insurance technology and services cluster, and NuHub, a regional nuclear collaborative. Insurance giant AFLAC now has a major presence in the region and will be joined soon by Accenture Insurance Services, which acquired Duck Creek Technologies. Both companies have growth plans for the region. NuHub holds tremendous promise for creating jobs and investment in the region. Efforts have centered on the development of Small Modular Reactors and the potential for developing an entire industry cluster around these next generation reactors, as well as nuclear workforce training. Efforts have also been made to explore a regional health care cluster. The Chamber adopted organizing and empowering clusters as part of its Strategic Plan 2010 and Cathy Novinger chairs an active cluster committee.

Workforce DevelopmentThe Chamber and the Foundation partnered again this year with the Career Center at the University of South Carolina to present and promote the Community Internship Program (CIP), linking USC students and South Carolina businesses. The Chamber and the Foundation also partnered with the Career Center for the Opportunity Knocks Part-

time Job Fair held in the late summer as students returned to campus, and are working toward a Spring Career Fair that will involve students from all the colleges and universities throughout the Columbia region.

Talent Attraction & RetentionThe Foundation provided funding this year to bring the young professionals organization Columbia Opportunity Resource (COR) under the Chamber umbrella. Foundation funding, directed by the City of Columbia, enabled the Chamber to hire a vice president for leadership development and community involvement who also functions as executive director for COR. COR is focused on community involvement, leadership development, and promotion of Columbia as a world-class city.

Talent GrowthThe Foundation, COR and the Central Carolina Community Foundation formed The Columbia Talent Team to compete for a $1 million Talent Dividend prize to be granted by CEOs for Cities to the MSA that exhibits the greatest increase in the number of post-secondary degrees granted per one thousand population over a four-year period. The two foundations have provided $10,000 in initial funding for the project that has been matched by CEOs for Cities.

Foundation Board MembersTed Speth, Ogletree Deakins (President) Barbara Blau, DP Professionals (Vice Chair) Lee Bussell, Chernoff Newman (Secretary)Thomas Pietras, Bauknight Pietras & Stormer, P.A. (Treasurer)Charles Beaman, Palmetto Health Mayor Steve Benjamin, City of ColumbiaMike Biediger, Lexington Medical Center Mike Brenan, BB&TTobin Cassels, Southeastern Freight Lines, Inc.Mike Crapps, First Community BankChuck Garnett, NBSCRandy Halfacre, Town of LexingtonLanny Lambert, Turner, Padget, Graham & LaneyJim Lehman, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLPCharles McFadden, SCANA CorporationJay Moskowitz, Health Sciences-South CarolinaChakisse Newton, Cardinal Consulting, LLCDavid Pankau, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Justin Strickland, Southern First BankDon Tomlin, Tomlin & Company Inc.Barbara Willm, Lexington Medical CenterJohn Windley, SCB&TGeorge Zara, Sisters of Charity Providence Hospital


engaging our membersWith the hiring of a director of communications for the Columbia Chamber, the organization hand-picked 11 of the area’s top communication professionals to serve on the Columbia Chamber Marketing & Communications Committee. The committee was tasked with strengthening local and state wide awareness of the Chamber, its programs and its members, while building the image of the Chamber as a professional organization that promotes local business, economic prosperity and overall quality of life.

In March, the Columbia Chamber re-launched its social media channels: Facebook and Twitter. Three months later, Chamber staff launched the organization’s first YouTube, FlickR and blog. The integration of these new technologies and social media tools helped foster community wide discussions about important issues that impact the region. Blog posts from Chamber staff and community leaders provide updates on key economic development, community events and activities, along with other chamber news.

The Columbia Chamber also introduced its new eNewsletter. Distributed to Chamber members, the eNewsletter brings the latest headlines, upcoming events and video messaging from chamber and community leaders directly to a member’s inbox.

Once of the greatest accomplishment in the “social” space for the Columbia Chamber was the partnership with SocialCrush, a 2-day conference of intensive social media know-how from some of the industry’s top names. Bringing SocialCrush to the Capital City reflects how the Columbia Chamber is evolving in its continued support of the local business community, but more importantly how the Midlands business community as a whole is adapting aggressively to meet a more technologically advanced and “social” marketplace.

More than 300 people attended the conference held in August at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

What’s next?The new year will bring a new Website for the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce. The new site will be a one-stop location on the Web for updates on events, initiatives, news and all things Columbia.

marketing & Communications Committee Kim Cox, Chernoff Newman (Chair) Kelly Davis, Davis Public Relations & Marketing Tina Emerson, Rogers Townsend & Thomas, PC Mandi Engram, Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports & TourismAllison Horne, Columbia Museum of ArtJeff Kuerzi, The State Media Company Stephanie Jones, SCANA Jamie Muldrow, American Red Cross Lora Prill, ADCO Mary Safko, Trevett’s Julie Scott, SC Chamber McKenzie Welsh, WIS TV

our fans!1506 Fans faceboook.com/columbiachamber

1125 Followers @ColaSCChamber

*as of Sept. 13, 2011

Columbia was given a major boost to its social media scene recently when SocialCrush came to town. From beginners to experts, everyone had an amazing opportunity to learn how to move their businesses forward using the newest tools on the market. Social media Club would like to thank the Columbia Chamber for this great opportunity.

Chip OglesbyPresident, Social Media Club Columbia@smccolumbia

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northeast area CouncilThe mission of the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce’s Northeast Area Council is to lead, collaborate and engage the Northeast business community, elected officials and partners in proactive initiatives that foster the business environment and create opportunities for our community to thrive.

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

northeast area Council boardJay Wedeking, SOHO Office (Chairman)Duane Reed, Northwestern Mutual Financial Network (Chair-elect) Doug Bridges, Doug Bridges-Coldwell Banker Ashley Bruton, Richland School District 2 Sherman Goodwin, U.S. Army Recruiting Jennifer Harding, Coldwell Banker United Realtors Corrina Hooker, Russell & Jeffcoat Robin Jones, SAFE Federal Credit UnionTerry Klosterman, Klosterman Insurance AgencyCory Lorick, Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia Don Purcell, Spring Valley Paint & Body Jeff Harper, Village at Sandhill

notable eventsNE Business@Sunrise | 7:30 a.m.Last Thursday of the month

NE Business After Hours | 5:30 p.m. Third Tuesday of the month

NE Mini Expo | Held in AugustHosted more than 45 vendors

northeast area Council | Village at sandhill110-6 forun drive | Columbia, sC 29229

803.669.5343 | www.columbiachamber.com


Raised over $1.1 million The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce’s Total Resource Campaign experienced another record-breaking year, exceeding its goal of $1.1 million in donations. The Total Resource Campaign is a 12-week campaign used to attract new volunteers, new sponsors, and new members to the chamber, allowing it to continue in its mission to support businesses. The funds raised throughout the campaign help sustain business development, community improvement and member services, as well as the chamber’s many programs, events, and publications.

total resource Campaign

type of sale sales New Memberships $31,116 Membership Renewals $193,450Programs and Event Sponsors $404,107Membership Upgrades $5,500 Advertising $16,000 Direct Budget Reduction Trades $450,787 total $1,100,906

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Campaign Goal: $1,100,000Campaign Total: $1,100,906Campaign Chair: David CampbellChernoff Newman

Campaign Goal: $1,000,000Campaign Total: $1,004,618Campaign Chair: David CampbellChernoff Newman

Campaign Goal: $1,000,000Campaign Total: $1,002,462.50Campaign Chair: Todd WagstaffComfort Services

Campaign Goal: $825,000Campaign Total: $907,101Campaign Chair: Ted SpethOgletree Deakins

Campaign Goal: $725,000Campaign Total: $801,791Campaign Chair: Justin StricklandSouthern First

Campaign Goal: $625,000Campaign Total: $720,596Campaign Chair: Bill LaMotteNBSC

Campaign Goal: $475,000Campaign Total: $602,183Campaign Chair: John HallSCANA

Campaign Goal: $375,000Campaign Total: $441,693Campaign Chair: Gary SchneiderWilbur Smith

Campaign Goal: $325,00Campaign Total: $361,233Campaign Chair: Scott BlackmonRegions Bank

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Thank you...ChairmanDavid Campbell, Chernoff Newman

Co-chairHelen Baldwin, NAI Avant

Vice ChairsDavid Anderson, First Citizens BankJ. Scott Blackmon, Blackmon FarmsPatrick Knie, SCB&TFred Hanna, URSTodd Wagstaff, Comfort Services

top 5 overall producers: Tara Williams, AllSouth Federal Credit UnionTodd Wagstaff, Comfort ServicesHelen Baldwin, NAI AvantAngelia Cannon, DiplomatsKiki Wooley, Diplomats

top 5 overall teams: Comfort Services Carolina Business PartnersDiplomats Board of Directors NAI Avant

Accomplishments100 total Resource volunteers raised more than $1.1 million during the campaign & sold 46 new memberships

48 attended top Producers trip to the Secrets Capri Resort in the mayan Riviera, mexico

7 new volunteers in the 2010 Campaign


Highlights An opportunity to meet more than a dozen directors of local theaters, museums, dance companies and other arts organizations.

An exclusive interactive demonstration with the Lexington County SWAT team, an opportunity to hear from juveniles serving time at the Department of Juvenille Justice and a tour of the S.C. Department of Corrections.

A sneak peak at the new SC State Farmer’s Market with Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers, presentations from more than a dozen organizations who work on economic development and a tour of PurePower Technologies.

lC | leadership ColumbiaOverviewLeadership Columbia, a program created and managed by the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, has celebrated close to 1,700 graduates since its inception in 1973. The 59-member Class of 2011 engaged in a 10-month program including monthly learning sessions, class retreat, group project and other enrichment activities.

Tours of three high schools to compare educational issues across school districts and a compelling presentation about gangs in schools from Richland County Sheriff’s Department.

An opportunity to meet executives from all three hospital systems in Columbia, behind the scenes tour of an emergency room and a chance to meet more than 25 nonprofits who provide programs related to health and human services.

A once in a lifetime presentation Lt. Gen. Benjamin Freakley, one of 43 three-star Army generals in the world, a tour of Fort Jackson and a chance to experience what life is like for a new Army recruit.

An opportunity to meet legislators, elected officials, legislative staff members, lobbyists and reporters for a comprehensive overview of the political process and climate in South Carolina.

Behind the scenes tours of Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens, Congaree National Park and the Columbia-area Sonoco Recycling Facility, followed by a canoe trip down the Saluda River to cap the experience.

Class ProjectThe class completed a comprehensive renovation of the Doug Gray Cottage at Epworth Children’s Home. The class gave more than 1,730 hours toward completing the renovation and raised funds and donations exceeding $50,000. The Doug Gray Cottage will serve 10 boys.

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I joined LC as one of 59 strangers from a variety of diverse careers and backgrounds; I graduated the program as one of 59 friends forever bonded by a deeper sense of community obligation.

Jamie MuldrowLeadership Columbia Class of 20112011 Glenn Jacobus Award Winner

Leigh Matthews, Palmetto GBAFred McDaniel, Richland School District TwoPaula Melton, Palmetto Health Information TechnologyJamie Muldrow, American Red Cross South Carolina Blood Services RegionChakisse Newton, Cardinal Consulting, LLCAlex Nicyper, Ronald McDonald House Charities of ColumbiaScott Nolan, Columbia Museum of ArtJason Outman, Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports & TourismBrian Pattison, Miller-Valentine GroupDavid Roberts, DER Consulting, Inc.Rebecca Roebuck, TD BankAnna Saunders, Palmetto Health FoundationDeonca Shields, Eastman Chemical CompanyDouglas Stone, Boy Scouts of America, Indian Waters CouncilCarolyn Swinton, Palmetto Health RichlandJames Taylor, Wilbur Smith AssociatesBrian Thomas, A3 Communications, Inc.Breon Walker, Ellis Lawhorne & Sims, P.A.Joey Wallace, United Way of the MidlandsMichael Weaver, McNair Law Firm, P.A.Tiger Wells, Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A.Marty Wells, U.S. Army ReserveZack Wheeler, Coldwell Banker United, REALTORSShanna Wright, Palmetto HealthLynn Wythe, Palmetto Health Baptist

Leadership Columbia Class of 2011David Albert, Colonial Life Accident & Insurance CompanyCharles Appleby, Collins & Lacy, P.C.Nathan Arnold, Mungo Homes, Inc.Chad Baker, BlueCross BlueShield of South CarolinaAaron Bell, Central Midlands Council of GovernmentsEdward Bender, Nexsen Pruet, LLCWhitney Brooke, US Department of Justice/Office of Legal EducationJesse Bullard, Southern Way CateringEric Burke, Wilbur Smith AssociatesWilliam Cason, The Cason Group, Inc.Dwight Cathcart, Dennis CorporationIdella Chestnut, Palmetto GBA, LLCEdward Conroy, Central Carolina Community FoundationAmanda Drinkall, Cyberwoven, LLCAnna Edwards, University of South CarolinaTammie Epps, Palmetto HealthWhitney Evans, South Carolina Policy CouncilWhitney Fleshman, SRC-An Aetna CompanyKatie Fox, Midlands Technical CollegeKhali Gallman, City of ColumbiaBen Glenn, Bauknight, Pietras & Stormer, P.A.Sherman Goodwin, United States Air ForceAnthony Hernandez, Wells FargoKristine Hooker, IT-oLogyHeidi Johnson, Keep the Midlands BeautifulDavid Johnson IV, Turner Padget Graham & Laney P.A.John Johnston, Ed Robinson Laundry and Dry Cleaning, Inc.Twila Jones, Columbia Metropolitan Convention & Visitors BureauJulia Kennard, EdVenture Children’s MuseumJay Lasater, NBSC, a Division of Synovus BankManny Licata, BlueCross BlueShield of South CarolinaJason Likas, LS3P Associates Ltd.Cory Lorick, Home Builders Association of Greater ColumbiaJessica Lovelace, PurePower Technologies

LC CommitteeKeith Chichester, Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company (Chair)Krisdee Foster (Chair-Elect)Brooke Bailey, Sisters of Charity Foundation of SCTerry Buchmann, Garvin Design Group, Inc.Tushar Chikhliker, Nexsen Pruet, LLCKim Cox, Chernoff NewmanKendall Davis, Greater Columbia Chamber of CommerceMandi Engram, Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports & TourismCasey Fields, Municipal Association of South CarolinaErin GrangerNick Haigler, Sowell Gray Stepp & Laffitte, LLCElaine Hensley, Palmetto GBA, LLCLynn Hodge, Adams Eaddy & AssociatesWill Johnson, Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, PANeil Jones, Bauknight Pietras & Stormer, P.A.Monique Mack, Richland County GovernmentKevin Markland, Wells FargoRyan Newton, Graybill & Lansche, LLCPat Patterson, The Hubbard Group Stephen Ross, Comfort Services of the MidlandsJesse Smith, First Citizens BankLeslie Stiles, Palmetto GBABrian Taylor, LTC Associates, Inc.Brazand Thomas, Palmetto HealthStamarian Watts, SCANATara Williams, AllSouth Federal Credit Union


lCaa | leadership Columbia alumni associationOverviewLeadership Columbia Alumni Association (LCAA), a program created and managed by the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, provides the 1,600-plus graduates of Leadership Columbia opportunities to fulfill their commitment to the community, while enhancing their leadership skills.

HighlightsELM (Extraordinary Leaders of the Midlands) Society Social at Top of Carolina in October.

Leadership Extension Luncheon Series featuring a distinguished lineup of speakers: Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin, Ashley McAlister with The State Media Company, Dr. Stuart Hamilton with Select Health of South Carolina, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott and Fred Martin with Mast General Stores.

Five nonprofits were featured as part of the LCAA Nonprofit Spotlight Series: Special Olympics, City Year, Family Shelter, Alala and Southeastern Institute for Women in Politics. In addition, Historic Columbia Foundation was awarded the LCAA grant for outstanding collaborative programming.

South Carolina Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt was the keynote speaker at a sold out and largest LCAA Leadership Summit to date in May.

Winter and spring socials were held in conjunction with Leadership Columbia class days.

LCAA Committee Cynthia Steele, Sodexo - Carolina Dining Services (President)

Macon Lovelace, NAI Avant (President Elect & Sponsorship Chair)

Melissa Spotts, The Nature Conservancy, South Carolina Chapter (Programs Chair)

Wendy Fuess, Wells Fargo Insurance Services, USA (Summit Chair)

Courtney Herring, Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce (Nonprofit Liaison)

Beth Baldauf, United Way of the Midlands (Class Liaison)

Ed Greenleaf, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina (Membership Chair)

Clay Pope, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina (ELM Society Social Chair)

Jake Knight, Real Estate Appraisers and Consultants, LLC (REAC, LLC) (At-Large Member)

Elliott Wilson, TRC Staffing Services, Inc. (Immediate Past President)

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2011 Palmetto Pillar Awards Recipients:

The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce Information Technology Council (ITC) held its annual Palmetto Pillar Awards banquet in August at 701 Whaley.

Sponsored by IT-oLogy, the banquet featured Larry Hembree of the Nickelodeon Theatre as emcee and Jerry Fountain, Carolinas/Tennessee Verizon Wireless region president, as the keynote speaker.

The Palmetto Pillar Awards program, started in 2000, praises the area’s top leaders in technology innovation.

itC | information technology Council

Leadership in TechnologyJesus RosaVelezU.S. Army – Fort Jackson

Public Service Through IT BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina

IT Infrastructure ServicesPalmetto Health

Licensed IT ProductVC3

Custom Application DevelopmentRichland County Government

Start-Up VentureRichard RobinsonUSC Moore School of Business

One to WatchTodd LewisPalmetto Computer Labs

Student AchievementJerod BeaudrotAaron ReeserSydney SpanglerJenny ClarkAndy Moyer*from Lexington Technology Center

Technology in the ArtsChris RobinsonUSC Art Department

Student Scholarship Recipients: Joshua SimoneauMatthew Simoneau*from Midlands Technical College

The Information Technology Council (ITC) is an umbrella IT organization for the Greater Columbia Region. In that capacity, the ITC reaches out to, acknowledges and embraces all who are involved in the IT community. Our programs are designed to create awareness, provide networking opportunities and to recognize achievement of those in the IT community. Each year the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce’s Information Technology Council hosts the annual Palmetto Pillar Awards. These awards are presented in 10 categories to the leaders and innovators in technology throughout the region.

HighlightsIncreased ITC membership by 30%, adding members from such companies as Colonial Life, McNair Law Firm, Richland School District 2 and Palmetto GBA.

Topics at monthly meetings included Virtual Desktop Infrastructure, Open Source Software, Cloud Computing, Risk Management - Disaster Recovery, Mobile Technology and Intellectual Property Security.

Collaborations with SCITDA, CIO Forum and other organizations

7 new locations for meetings & a new location for the Palmetto Pillar Awards

Art of Technology theme for the Palmetto Pillars Awards


Cor | Columbia opportunity resourceSeptember 1, 2010, marked a huge milestone for Columbia Opportunity Resource, COR. It was the official first day of the new partnership between COR, the Columbia Chamber, the Navigating from Good to Great Foundation and the City of Columbia to make a concerted and successful effort in attracting, retaining and engaging top young talent in Columbia. It also marked the first day of COR’s first executive director, Katherine Swartz.

The COR Board of Directors focused on planning and implementation during the first quarter of the year ‘10-’11. What emerged is a challenging and exciting program of work for the organization and community, with a refocus on five key initiatives.

Highlights Community Involvement InitiativesCOR launched a Saturday Day of Service Series, designed to connect young professionals with community issues and their peers in a “done in a day” hands on service project.

COR entered into a three-year partnership with the World Beer Festival, and successfully hosted more than 425 volunteers at the January 2011 festival.

More than 120 COR volunteers took part in the St. Pats in Five Points Festival in March and more than 230 COR volunteers served at the USMC Mud Run in April, COR’s second partnership event with the Greater Columbia Marine Foundation. COR

was also the volunteer partner for the City Center Partnership’s annual Urban Tour in April, engaging some 40 volunteers.

Leadership Development InitiativesThe Leadership Development Initiative imple-mented plans for the Table for Six series, a network-ing dinner that connects seasoned executives with emerging leaders over casual dinner conversation. COR hosted a sold-out Table for Six in June, with six executives and 30 attendees. The initiative also laid groundwork for a board placement project and portal.

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Promote Columbia InitiativesThe purpose of COR’s Promote Columbia Initiative is to promote Columbia to Columbians through innovative programs.

COR hosted a Columbia 101, “Columbia Hot List” presentation at the USC Moore School’s IMBA Orientation in June, connecting with 95 students. The program takes participants through the “bests” of Columbia and is presented by a team of experts about subjects like arts and culture, volunteer opportunities and signature Columbia events. COR plans to offer this presentation to other student groups, Chamber members and to the public.

COR is working with WXRY-FM Radio to produce daily segments called “The Buzz,” which promote some of the best Columbia has to offer in events, volunteer opportunities and other ways to become involved.

COR Special Events and ProjectsCOR hosted an annual meeting in February, “Carpe Opportunitas,” and launched the Give 11 in 2011 Campaign, a yearlong effort to raise the rate of volunteerism and philanthropy in Columbia. A standing room only crowd of 250 attendees took part in this exciting event, headlined by Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin, State Rep. Bakari Sellers and Doreen Sullivan, president of Post No Bills.

COR and the Columbia Chamber launched a bi-monthly breakfast series, “Caffeinated Conversations,” in March to better promote opportunities to get involved in both organizations and the community. More than 75 young professionals have attended these breakfasts.

Twelve COR board members were recognized and presented the President’s National Volunteer Service Award during National Volunteer Service week for giving more than 100 hours to COR during 2010.

Internal-Organizational EnhancementThe COR board redeveloped its leadership structure to include 15 young professional directors and 10 Wisdom Council members, executives who will serve in strategic advisory roles.

COR launched two new committees, marketing and development, which are working toward advancing COR’s strategic plan, including robust community awareness for COR and the development of a signature fundraising event.

Get Connected with CORAs always, we welcome your involvement in and support of COR programs and events. Please share information with young professionals in your organization and your network. Anyone interested in becoming involved can visit www.ourcor.org/GetStarted.


monthly eventsBusiness@SunriseThis monthly breakfast meeting, held in Northeast Columbia, brings together more than 100 chamber members for the opportunity to network and meet the area’s key professionals. This year’s speakers included State Rep. Mia Butler, Sheriff Leon Lott and sales consultant Walker McKay, ranging from topics on Tax Reform, the USO and Heart Health.

Business@MiddayAttendees at this monthly luncheon gained insight from a variety of speakers including Tim Moore, SocialCrush; Maj. Gen. James Milano, Ft. Jackson and Derek Walker, brown and browner advertising. With more than 1,000 members in attendance this year, it was a great way to expand one’s network.

Business after HoursThis event gives members an additional opportunity to network with other Columbia professionals. Starting out small, this event has quickly become one of our most popular networking sessions. Downtown - First Tuesday of each month Northeast - Third Tuesday of each month

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Teacher Recognition The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce partners with the Midlands Education and Business Alliance (MEBA) to host the Annual Teacher Recognition Breakfast, where Teachers’ of the Year for each of the regional school districts are honored. This year, more than 250 educators were recognized from ten school districts. IT-oLogy was also honored as the 2011 Business Partner of the Year.

Golf TournamentOne of the Chamber’s largest fundraisers, the 2011 annual Columbia Chamber golf tournament was held at WildeWood country club in May. Some 300 golfers participated in the event, with more than 20 companies displayed throughout the golf course. Thanks to our many volunteers who helped make the tournament a success.

Annual Gala The Annual Gala & Auction is the Columbia Chamber’s largest fundraiser. The event features recognized speakers, an overview of the Chamber’s accomplishments for the year, installation of the new chair of the board of directors and the presentation of the Ambassador of the Year. The program also features an auction with items from local businesses around the region. More than 900 Chamber members attended the 2010 Annual Gala.

SocialCrushThis two-day, hands-on, interactive social media business conference, held at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center on August 16-17, gave more than 300 attendees insight on how to use social channels such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn efficiently and effectively for business and marketing, as well as the strategies and analytics needed to listen, monitor and grow online brand identity to keep their businesses ahead of competitors. The line-up of speakers included a list of who’s who among social media companies: Edelman Digital, HubSpot, Zemanta and PR Newswire.

special events


The Chamber Diplomats is a group of knowledgeable volunteers serving in a year-round effort as customer service representatives of the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, as well as acting as liaisons between the chamber staff, board of directors and our members.

HighlightsMore than 560 calls were made during the year by Chamber Diplomats assisting the Chamber with membership retention and continued involvement.

Aside from encouraging members to become more involved, the Chamber Diplomats assisted more than 400 members in learning more about the Columbia Chamber.

Chamber Diplomats also served as greeters at Business After Hours, Member Orientation Receptions and other chamber functions.

Chamber diplomats

Rhe Adams, Virginia CollegeMandy Baibak, SAFE Federal Credit UnionJenny Barber, Right at HomeScott Blackmon, Blackmon FarmsAllen Brown, New York Life Insurance Co. Evelyn Clary, Allstate Insurance Craig Dunlavy, Total Comfort SolutionsLindsey Hiltom, Robert Half InternationalChad FeichteL, Liberty MutualKate Fox, Find Great People, FGPCharles Griffin, Regions BankNancy Hilliard, Corps GroupCorrina Hooker, Russell & JeffcoatRose Jackson, SC Women in Business

Sue Love, Central Payment Corp.Matt McLees, The McLees Planning GroupAmy Quenneville, Recruiting SolutionsKimberly Riley, McWatersViji Sashikant, ERA Wilder RealtyMichael Strange, Security FederalRandi Sullivan, DoubleTree by HiltonLeslie Ann Sully, U.S. Army RecruitingJudie VanPatten, Riverbanks ZooBrett Wadford, Adams Moving & Storage Mike Weaver, The Weaver AgencyRadley West, Any Time FitnessKiki Wooley, Greater Columbia Business MonthlyMyra Wright, Any Lab Test Now

The Diplomats

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Over the last year, the Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee experienced success in several key program areas.

HighlightsAn initiative uniting military and elected leadership to discuss community projects kicked off in late 2010. Local mayors and county officials, along with state constitutional officers and congressional representatives convene bimonthly to maintain healthy on and off post relationships with Fort Jackson, Shaw and McEntire.

A press conference on the Columbia Chamber lawn celebrated AT&T’s announcement of a significant donation of international phone cards to soldiers and airmen at the three installations.

“Welcome” events were held throughout the year for Fort Jackson’s incoming leaders Commanding Gen. Mike Milano, Garrison Commander Col. J.J. Love, Deputy Commander Col. Craig Currey and Chief of Staff Col. Kenneth Royalty.

To celebrate the U.S. Army’s 236th birthday, the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Committee hosted its fourth annual Fort Jackson Night at the Blowfish. The event, honoring members of the military and their families, took place on June 4 at Capital City Stadium in Columbia. During a pre-game ceremony, members of the local community again signed a covenant conveying the community’s continued support for the armed forces, soldiers and their families.

The Military Affairs Committee held a luncheon to host a delegation of Iraqi law enforcement officers during their visit to South Carolina. The event provided an opportunity to pay tribute to four women who were among the first female officers to graduate from training in the Iraqi police force and who are serving alongside U.S. soldiers. The four officers journeyed to the United States under the auspices of U.S. Forces – Iraq, guided by Col. Anita Dixon, and were part of a celebration of the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day in March 2011.

military affairs


Ike McLeese, President & CEO

John Mikula, Sr. VP of Business Retention & Expansion

Grant Jackson, Sr. VP of Community Development

Courtney Herring, Director of Government Relations & Regionalism

Nicole Curtis, Director of Communications & Media Relations

Katherine Swartz, VP of Leadership Development & Community InvolvementExecutive Director of Columbia Opportunity Resource (COR)

Kendall Davis, Director of Marketing and Programs

Shannon Viera, Director of Programs & Events Executive Director of the Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (CACCE)

Lynn Turbeville, Director of Member Retention

Tracy King, Director of Finance & Controller

Chris Tucker, Accounting & Benefits Administrator

Allison Okey, Database Manager

Margie Bostic, Information Services Manager

Katherine Yon, Executive Assistant

Don Clary, Senior Account Executive

Jill Gibson, Account Executive

James “J.L” Boney, Account Executive

Phil Jenkins, Account Executive

Chamber staff

the people


Executive CommitteeChair of Central SC AllianceJim B. Apple, First Citizens Bank

Chair Appointed Henri Baskins, AT&T

Immediate-Past Chair ‘09-’10Charles D. Beaman, Palmetto Health

Chair of the BoardMike Brenan, BB&T

Chair-elect ‘12-’13Lee Bussell, Chernoff Newman

Chair Appointed Bob Coble, Nexsen Pruet

Chair for Finance Ashley Houser, BankMeridian

Chair of mBLgJohn Lumpkin

President of the gCCCIke McLeese, Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce

Chair of Cluster Oversight CommitteeCathy Novinger, Novinger QTR

Chair of ng2g FoundationTed Speth, Ogletree Deakins

Board of DirectorsBill Barker, TD Bank Cliff Bourke, Southeastern Freight Lines

Mike Briggs, Central SC Alliance

David Campbell , Chernoff Newman

Keith Chichester, Nationwide Insurance

Kim Cox, Chernoff Newman

Amy D. Duffy, SC Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism

Jim Gambrell, City of Columbia Office of Economic Development

Maj. Gen. George Goldsmith, Retired, U.S. Army Randy Halfacre, President, Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce

Don Herriott, Innovista Partnerships

Dale Johnston, Edens & Avant

Joe Jones, Jones, McAden & Associates

Melanie Jones, M.O.D. Strategy, LLC

Matt Kennell, City Center Partnership, Inc.

Col. James J. Love, U.S. Army Training Center

Ric Luber, Midland Authority for Conventions, Sports & Tourism

Dr. Percy Mack, Richland School District One

Dan Mann, Columbia Metropolitan Airport

Harry Mashburn, Mashburn Construction Company

Bill McAfee, WHM Capital Advisors, LLC

JT McLawhorn, Jr., Columbia Urban League, Inc.

Neil McLean, Sagacious Partners, LLC

Chakisse Newton, Cardinal Consulting

Ted Nissen, First Community Bank

Dr. Harris Pastides, USC-President’s Office

Bessie Watson, Columbia Council of Neighborhoods

Jay Wedeking, SOHO Office

Dr. Sonny White, Midlands Technical College

Preston Winkler, Greater Columbia Community Relations Council

Andrew Witt, Cultural Council

George Zara, Sisters of Charity Providence Hospital

Committee ChairsAuction CommitteeRhonda Hughey, Arthur State Bank

Budget & Finance Ashley Houser, BankMeridian

Chamber Issues CommitteeJoe Jones, Jones, McAden & Associates

DiplomatsMike Weaver, The Weaver Agency

Golf TournamentMary Winter Teaster, CB Richard Ellis

Information Technology Council Dale Johnston, Edens & Avant

Leadership Columbia Keith Chichester, Nationwide Insurance

Leadership Columbia Alumni AssociationCynthia Steele, USC Carolina Dining Services

Marketing & Communications Committee-Kim Cox, Chernoff Newman

Military Affairs CommitteeMaj. Gen. George Goldsmith, Retired, U.S. Army

Northeast Area CouncilJay Wedeking, SoHo Office

Total Resource CampaignDavid Campbell, Chernoff Newman

Chamber leadership


The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce would like to recognize the following companies for 50+ years of membership:

1931 Derrick Stubbs & Stith, LLP 1931 Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP 1934 Bollin Ligon Walker Realtors, P.A. 1937 M. B. Kahn Construction Company 1939 Richland School District #1 1939 U.S. Food Service 1940 South Carolina State Fair 1941 South Carolina Chamber of Commerce 1942 CMC Steel South Carolina 1942 Colonial Life 1942 McCrory Construction Company, Inc. 1942 W.O. Blackstone Company, Inc. 1943 Budweiser of Columbia 1943 The State Media Company 1946 Colliers International 1946 Southeastern Freight Lines 1947 Dunbar Funeral Home 1947 Robinson, McFadden & Moore P.C. 1947 South University 1948 AT&T 1948 Coca-Cola Bottling Company Consolidated 1948 South Carolina Electric & Gas 1948 Terminix Service, Inc. 1948 Todd & Moore Inc. 1948 Wachovia Bank, N.A. 1949 Hardaway Concrete Company 1950 Intertape Polymer Group 1951 Ernst & Young, LLP 1953 Columbia Urban League, Inc. 1954 Bonitz Contracting Co., Inc. 1958 Barnes Alford Stork & Johnson L.L.P. 1958 Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, PA 1959 Baker & Baker, Real Estate Developers 1959 BB&T-Boyle-Vaughan Insurance 1959 First Citizens Bank 1959 Keenan & Suggs 1959 Martin Marietta Aggregates SC District

presidents Circle1959 United Way of the Midlands 1959 Wilbur Smith Associates 1959 WIS TV 1959 WLTX 1959 Nexsen Pruet, LLC 1959 Belk 1959 Gregory Electric Co., Inc. 1960 Edens & Avant 1960 Ben Arnold Beverage Co. 1960 BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina 1961 Shaw Industries, Inc 1961 The Wolfe Company, Inc. 1961 The Loxcreen Company, Inc. 1961 The Blossom Shop Florist

1902-1906 – Washington Clark1907 – Willie Jones1908 – Benjamin F. Taylor1909 – William Otis, Sr.1910 – Julius H.Walker, Sr.1911-1912 – R.Beverly Hebert, Sr.1913 – John W. Lillard1914 – Bruce W. Ravenel1915 & 1918 – John W. Lillard1919 & 1920 – Joseph D. Milot1921 – E.O. Black1922 - W. William Cappelmann1923 – Charles E. Boineau1924 – William Lykes, Jr.1925 – James G. Holmes1926 – Chris W. Walker1927 – Jesse B. Roddy, Sr.1928 & 1929 – H. Gordon Kenna1930 & 1931 – Charles D. Gordon1932 – James B. Murphy1933 – O. Lee Gordon

past Chairs

1934 – William G. DeLoache, Jr.1935 – Ames Haltiwanger1936 – C. S. Lemon1937 – James H. Hammond1938 – Robert Cooper1939 – Alva M. Lumpkin1940 – J. Macfie Anderson1941 – W.P. Hamrick1942 – Albert L. Wardlaw1943 – G. A.Buchanan, Jr.1944 – William L. Perry1945 – J.E. Timberlake1946 & 1947 – Henry F. Jumper, Jr.1948 – J.M. Blalock, Sr.1949 – W. S. Reamer, Jr.1950 – Smith Harrison1951 – James B. Caughman1952 – Walter G. Edwards1953 – John H. Lumpkin, Sr.1954 – Joseph C. Good1955 – Arthur M. Williams1956 – Arthur F. Langley1957 – James L. Tapp1958 – J. H. Fleming1959 – C. Wallace Martin1960 – Henry F. Jumper, Jr.1961 – Robert S. Davis1962 – O. Stanley Smith, Jr.1963 – Robert E. Hudson1964 – G. Cameron Todd1965 – Charles A. Batson1966 – Jack D. Fuller1967 – John L. Lentz1968 – N.E. Brown1969 – Russell Rooney1970 – T. Howard Timberlake1971 – Rudolph C. Barnes1972 – Charles H. Wickenberg, Jr.1973 – William Harley1974 & 1975 – Frank Smith, Jr.1976 – Harry R. Marsh1977 – Thomas L. Gregory1978 – C.J. Fritz1979 – Robert L. Gandy1980 – Robert S. McCoy1981 – Frank C. Murphey

1982 – John S. Hill1983 – Thomas N. Bagnal1984 – Robert L. Selman1985 – Thomas E. Suggs1986 – James B. Murphey, Jr.1987 – Claude Scarborough1988 – John Boatwright1988 – Harold Chandler1989 – Jack S. Hupp1990 – Dick Gallup1991 – Thomas Suggs1991 – Thomas E. Persons1992 – Joel A. Smith, III1993 – Joe M. Anderson, Jr.1994 – John H. Lumpkin, Jr.1995 – Robin Langston Gorman1996 – Charles H. Dickerson1997 – Charles T. Cole, Jr.1998 – Robert E. Staton1999 – David H. Swinton2000 – Jack E. Skolds2001 – Kester S. Freeman, Jr.2002 – Donald W. Purcell, Sr.2003 – Scott Blackmon2004 – Gary Schneider2005 – Jim Reynolds2006 – Chuck Garnett2007 – Justin Strickland2008 – Ted Speth2009 - Cathy Novinger2010 - Charles D. Beaman, Jr.

the people


PlatinumWells Fargo

GoldAT&TBank of AmericaBB&TBlueCross BlueShield of South CarolinaNBSCPalmetto HealthSouth Carolina Electric & GasTD BankWaste Management of South CarolinaWilloughby & Hoefer, P.A.

SilverAkebono Brake Bose Corporation CMC Steel South CarolinaCoca-Cola Bottling Company Colonial LifeColumbia BlowfishDouble O RadioDupre Catering and EventsFirst Citizens BankFood LionHaynsworth Sinkler Boyd, PALong’s DrugsMcNair Law Firm, P.A.Michelin North America Midlands Biz Profiles, LLC Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP Palmetto GBASisters of Charity Providence Hospitals The State Media Company Technesis Technology SolutionsWalmart Super Center #1164

BronzeAgFirst Farm Credit Bank AllSouth Federal Credit UnionApplebee’s Corp.The Arnold Companies B P Barber & AssociatesBelk Campaign Research & Strategy IncColdwell Banker United, RealtorsColumbia MarriottComfort Services, Inc. Copier Sales & Service, Inc. DP Professionals, Inc. Edens & Avant Elliott Davis, LLC Enterprise Leasing Company Southeast LLC First Community BankFN Manufacturing Co. Hilton Columbia Center/Hampton Inn Homeowners MortgageHowden North America, Inc. Intertape Polymer Group Jarden Applied MaterialsJohnson Food Services Kahn Development Co – Village at Sandhill Lexington Medical Center Mayer Electric SupplyMetso Minerals Industries, Inc. Moore OrthopedicsMoore PhotographyThe Mungo CompaniesNAI Avant, LLCNexsen Pruet, LLCOgletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & StewartOwen Steel Co., IncPiggly Wiggly CarolinaPitts Insurance Team Publix Supermarkets, Inc.

PurePower Technologies, LLC Regions Bank Schneider-ElectricShaw Industries, Inc. South Carolina Bank and TrustSouth Carolina Federal Credit Union Southeastern Freight Lines Southern FirstSowell Gray Stepp & Laffitte, LLC Spirit Telecom Strategic Resource Company Terminix Service, Inc. Trane-Columbia Center of ExcellenceTurner, Padget, Graham & Laney, PAUniHealth Post Acute CareUPSUSC – President’s Office Virginia CollegeWebster University Westinghouse Electric Company Nuclear FuelWIS TVZero Gravity Project, LLC

board of advisors

The Board of Advisors are the lead investors and provide significant leadership and financial resources to advance the Chamber’s initiatives.


Message from our President Dear members and friends of the chamber,

As another year ends, it is important to look back at the accomplishments and bench-marks that have taken us several steps closer to achieving our Mission:

To create and promote an environment where businesses can flourish.

It was a year of significant endeavor and progress for the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce. Our staff worked diligently to provide a variety of events for our members and the community ranging from networking events to seminars and conferences. We advocated for you on the local, state and national levels, as well as provided leadership opportunities not only through our leadership programs but our committees. We worked to uphold our mission through the dedication of our staff and members who keep the Greater Columbia Chamber focused on moving forward.

Of course, such success would not be possible without the commitment and feedback of our strong and devoted membership. Thank you to our elected officials, committee members, chamber staff, and our many volunteers for your unwavering support. Your investment in the Greater Columbia Chamber is a huge vote of confidence in our ability to work on your behalf as the unified voice of the Greater Columbia business community.

The Greater Columbia Chamber is fully prepared to continue serving as a valuable resource and advocate for our business members and the community at large. We thank you for your strong support and hope you will continue to take advantage of the many programs and services we offer in the year to come.

Wishing you success in the year ahead,

Donald G. “Ike” McLeesePresident, Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce

Our business in life is not to get ahead of others, but to get ahead of ourselves -- to break our own records, to outstrip our yesterday by our today.Stewart B. Johnson

columbia chamber 2010-2011 annual report

Documents

chamber activities

leadership columbia

midlands community

key initiatives

staff members

economic development

growth of economic prosperity

key responsibility