2016 Columbia Profiles in Business

July 29, 2016 | Volume 9, No. 11 www.columbiabusinessreport.com

Sponsored by

Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community

“This expansion will allow us to meet a growing demographic who crave independent-style living in larger apartment homes and also to provide state-of-the-art care that helps other residents live vibrant, meaningful lives.”

- Danny Sanford, executive director and CEO

Stewart Rawson, director of marketing

T

he way people want to live as seniors and the amenities they expect have been significantly upgraded as the first baby boomers enter this stage of life. Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community is catering to those changes as its expansion plans evolve to serve those 55 and older.

In the works are WellPointe, a new five-story building with 82 apartments in a variety of sizes and styles, and HealthPointe, a more personalized level of nursing care, with three 16-bedroom households.

At the center of all residential options is a focus on health and wellness. “About 15 years ago, our community became very wellness motivated because we understand good health and fitness are key ingredients to living a meaningful, high quality life,” says Danny Sanford, executive director and CEO of Still Hopes. “This expansion will allow us to enhance that focus, in newly created living spaces that embrace bringing the outdoors in, and integrating calming waterscapes, plants and natural light into everyday life.”

WellPointe, graciously appointed one- and two-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes and underground parking, will overlook Still Hopes’ 15-acre forest preserve, says Stewart Rawson,

director of marketing. It will be next to the state-of-the-art wellness center, with a gym, pool and myriad classes and fitness programs.

HealthPointe, replacing the skilled nursing center, will have one floor for assisted living and three 16-room households for those needing nursing care. Each household will have a living and dining room, to make it feel more like home. “The design gives residents more privacy,” Sanford explains.

Recently, Still Hopes recreated the center of campus, enclosing an open courtyard to build Main Street, a long atrium with café, dining rooms, a shop, performance center and crafts area. “We’ve created gathering spaces,” Rawson says. “The coffee shop is open all day.”

Still Hopes, with 300 residents, is a Life Plan Community offering a full continuum of care for seniors. It is built on 44 acres, the site of Still Hopes plantation, which was bequeathed to Trinity Episcopal Church by Dr. Jane Bruce Guignard. Her intention was that the property be used as a home for seniors. And so it has, with a vision “to exemplify a new expectation for senior living.”

For information, contact Jessica Boyle, marketing coordinator, at (803) 739-5040.

1 Still Hopes Drive West Columbia, SC 29169 www.stillhopes.org

Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business

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A Note From the Publisher Dear Reader, Every business has a story. Sometimes, in the rush of commerce, that gets lost. That is why, a few years back, we started publishing Profiles in Business. It’s a chance for a business or organization to tell its own story, with the help of our writers, and to have a new photo made, with the help of our ace photographer Jeff Blake.

The result is the publication you hold in your hand. Each year now, I’ve been involved in writing and producing Profiles, and I have learned a lot. Who knew that you could start a pest control Licia Jackson business with just two customers? Or that digital billboards can be used by a restaurant to advertise their daily specials? Or how about a retirement community built on the site of a plantation that includes a 15-acre forest preserve?

We hope you’ll enjoy reading these stories and more in the Columbia Regional Business Report’s 2016 Profiles in Business. There’s a lot of our local business history, and hope for the future, here.

Enjoy!

Associate Publisher - Licia Jackson ljackson@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7546 Associate Editor - Jenny Peterson jpeterson@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3145 Senior Graphic Designer - Jane Mattingly production2@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3118 Assistant Graphic Designer - Emily Matesi ematesi@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3124 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Senior Account Executive - Alan James ajames@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7540 Account Executive - Lucia Smith lsmith@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7547 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mary Jane Benston, Licia Jackson, Jenny Peterson, C. Grant Jackson

Featured Profiles

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

City of Columbia.............................................. 5

M. Dillon Construction................................. 10

Complete Employee Services..................... 11

Mashburn Construction................................. 7

Elliot Davis Decosimo, LLC............................ 6

Modern Exterminating................................. 23

Jeff Blake

Executive Construction................................ 14

Pollock Company.............................................. 8

Fortress Builders........................................... 18

Resource Realty Group................................... 12

President and Group Publisher - Grady Johnson

GMK Associates........................................... 22

Security Management................................. 15

gjohnson@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3103

Grace Outdoor Advertising......................... 17

Snelling Staffing Services............................. 9

Hobbs Group................................................... 19

Southern Community Services................... 20

Kershaw County Economic Dev................. 21

Still Hopes........................................................ 3

LegalShield.................................................... 13

The Hood Team.............................................. 16

Vice President of Sales - Steve Fields sfields@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3110 Creative Director - Ryan Wilcox production1@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3117 Event Manager - Kathy Allen kallen@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3113

South Carolina’s Media Engine for Economic Growth

SC Business Publications LLC A portfolio company of Virginia Capital Partners LLC

Frederick L. Russell Jr., Chairman

Accounting Manager - Vickie Deadmon vdeadmon@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7541

The entire contents of this publication are copyright by SC Business Publications LLC with all rights reserved. Any reproduction or use of the content within this publication without permission is prohibited. SCBIZ and South Carolina’s Media Engine for Economic Growth are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Columbia Regional Business Report (USPS 8400) is published twice a month except monthly in May, June, July and August per year with special supplements in July and December, by SC Biz News.

1612 Marion Street, Suite 301 Columbia, SC 29201-2938

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Periodicals postage paid at Columbia, SC. Mailing address: 1612 Marion Street, Suite 301 Columbia, SC 29201-2938 Postmaster: Please send address changes to: SC Business Publications, 1439 Stuart Engals Blvd, Suite 200, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464.

2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement

Annual subscribers receive 20 issues of the Business Report, plus two special supplements: The Book of Lists, Profiles in Business One year (20 issues) for $49.95; two years (40 issues) for $84.95; three years (60 issues) for $119.95.

Subscribe, renew, change your address or pay your invoice by credit card online at www.columbiabusinessreport.com or call 843-849-3116.

City of Columbia Office of Economic Development

“If someone calls me and says they need something as simple as a pothole patched or a garbage can in front of their business, we will stop what we are doing and make that happen. There is no need too great or too small.”

- Ryan Coleman, Director

Sergio Aparicio, Brenda Jones, Ryan Coleman, Brie Logue

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he City of Columbia Office of Economic Development exists as an asset and a resource for the local business community.

The OED “is here to bridge the gap between the needs of the local business community and the policy makers and local government, as well as facilitate connections with the regulatory departments,” says Ryan Coleman, Director of the Office of Economic Development. “We’re here to grease the wheels.”

For more than 20 years, the OED has worked on new business recruitment and existing business retention and expansion. The office provides a broad array of services that such as location assistance for new businesses and trouble shooting for existing companies. One of the newest positions in the office is dedicated to working with small business entrepreneurs who frequently need more help than established businesses, and but often lack the time or resources to grow efficiently.

A major initiative currently underway is improving communications between the city and local businesses. The office has embarked on a social media initiative and is preparing to launch a monthly e-blast to create another avenue for sharing information that may be of interest

to local businesses. Coleman wants to make sure local businesses know that the Office of Economic Development is available to assist them. These programs will help to raise awareness of all of the business development occurring in Columbia, as well as promoting growth through more business-to- business opportunities.

Longer term the office is looking to build its pipeline of new business prospects through more aggressive recruiting, working in conjunction with its partners at Richland County, the University of South Carolina, the Central SC Alliance, EngenuitySC and the Columbia World Affairs Council. Recruitment activities will be focused on the insurance technology, health care and manufacturing industries.

“We are looking to generate more activity internally while coordinating more efficiently with our partners to better leverage the services that they provide. Our partners are invaluable to us.”

Coleman said.

Our office “lets the business community dictate what they want us to do and what they need us to be,” Coleman said. “We want to be known for fast, friendly and personable service.”

1201 Main St., Suite 250 Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 734-2700 www.columbiasc.net/economic-development Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business

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Elliott Davis Decosimo

“We’re looking at where our clients want to go in the future.”

- R. Scott MClelland, CPA and managing shareholder in the Columbia office

Scott McClelland

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ffering the resources of a Top 30 U.S. accounting firm with the personal attention of a local company, Elliot Davis Decosimo is South Carolina’s go-to, full-service assurance, audit, accounting, tax and consulting firm.

“One of the wonderful things we have with a firm this size is the depth of resources that we can bring to the local market,” says R. Scott McClelland, CPA and managing shareholder in the Columbia office.

The company’s commitment to the Midlands has made it an asset in the community since opening there in 1992.

Clients span all sizes and industries: individual clients, large financial institutions, closely-held corporations, local non-profits and everything in between.

Services provided include assurance and tax services, business consulting, financial planning, gift, estate planning and outsourced accounting.

Accountants work closely with business owners walking them through all phases of their business cycle and, in some cases, can offer consulting and business valuation services to add value.

“We’re looking at where our clients want to go in the future – we look at everything from cash flow to navigating employee benefit

plans, which are increasingly regulated,” McClelland says. “The environment is ever-changing, and we continue to be a leading firm in the market that consistently strives to make a positive impact on our clients.”

Client service is of highest importance.

“A lot of times, our role is that of a trusted advisor,” McClelland says.

Elliott Davis Decosimo is committed to the community. The firm has been recognized for the past 10 years as one of the state’s Best Places to Work. This year it was honored with the Spirit of the Midlands Award for its corporate leadership from the United Way. In 2014, the firm received the Elizabeth O’Neill Verner Governor’s Awards for the Arts, the highest honor the state presents for contributions to the arts. Employees sit on boards of local non-profits and are encouraged to volunteer for causes that are important to them.

“The Midlands is a vibrant community that mixes commercial, government and not-for-profits in one marketplace, and we are committed to those markets,” McClelland says. “It’s an exciting marketplace to work in, and we plan to continue our good work.”

P.O. Box 2227 Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 256-0002 www.elliotdavis.com

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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement

Mashburn Construction Co. Inc.

“It’s important to enjoy your work. I have had a lot of satisfaction in this business.

When you create a building – no matter what part you played or position you held – for the rest of your life you will drive by and say, ‘I built that.’ It’s a visual accomplishment..”

- Harry Mashburn, CEO and chairman

Left to right: Paul Mashburn, President and COO; Harry Mashburn, CEO and Chairman; Lee Mashburn, Executive Vice President, Pre-Construction

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ashburn Construction Co. is celebrating 40 years of building structures — and relationships — with integrity. It all began when founder Harry Mashburn did some work in Columbia for another construction company, serving as chief field engineer for the Carolina Coliseum.

Tired of traveling from state to state, he decided he liked the future he saw for Columbia, so he and his family settled there. One thing led to another and, by age 33, he had started his own company.

“I wanted to provide professional services to clients rather than bid schoolhouses,” Mashburn says. The traditional construction system was to design a project, then bid it to a contractor to build it. That led to inevitable conflict among the various parties, which could be avoided with a collaborative design-build system.

The company offers construction management services, managing the full process with client, design team and builder. “When everyone is on the same team, they work together,” Mashburn explains.

Mashburn Construction Co., a full-service construction company, focuses on commercial buildings, with apartments being its only residential enterprise. The company’s expertise extends to health care, historical renovation, hospitality, industrial, institutional and church

construction. Headquartered in Columbia, Mashburn Construction has offices in Charleston and Greenville.

In downtown Columbia, Mashburn’s touch is everywhere. The company renovated the old Lourie’s department store for Mast General Store on Main Street, with two floors of apartments above. Across the street is Agape Senior, where Mashburn took three buildings and transformed them into two restaurants, corporate offices, a pharmacy, doctor’s office, fitness center and meeting and training center. When a giant office building was abandoned on Main Street, Mashburn took on the job of converting it to The Hub at Columbia, where 850 young people now live.

A dream of Harry Mashburn’s is that the company be passed on to the second generation of his family, and that is well on the way. Paul Mashburn is currently President and COO and concentrates mainly on Operations; as Executive Vice President, Lee Mashburn focuses more on the preconstruction process.

The company has succeeded because of quality work and excellence in project leadership, Mashburn says. “I attribute it to really good building superintendents who are on the job every day. It really makes a difference in a company.”

1820 Sumter St. Columbia SC, 29201 (803) 400-1000 www.mashburnconstruction.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business

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Pollock Company

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- Ed Pollock, a third-generation leader at Pollock Company

(Left to right) Gaylon Scoates, Dinkel Kaur and Ed Pollock marvel at a building model that was printed with a 3D printer the Pollock Company now sells.

O

ne sure constant in business technology is change.

Pollock Company has seen plenty of change – from the typewriters it offered 51 years ago to three recently added products: mailing equipment, 3-D printing solutions and interactive whiteboards.

“These new products provide cost-effective, in-house solutions to traditionally outsourced or inaccessible processess,” Ed Pollock, special operations officer, says. “They help our customers remain in total control of their workflow from concept to final product.”

Pollock Company discovered a local demand for mailing equipment when it ran into trouble getting a new postage meter for its own operations. New products from FP Mailing Solutions range from digital postage meters to mailing equipment that can fold, insert, seal, weigh and stamp. Because mailroom operations can be so labor-intensive, the equipment is surprisingly cost-effective.

The company now sells not only multifunction printers, but also 3-D printers. It also offers 3-D printing and prototyping services. Customers submit conceptual drawings and receive cost estimates for turning their concepts into prototypes, says Steve Baxter, vice president of major accounts and training. 3-D printing can offer tremendous savings in

both time and money over conventional prototyping services. A video on the Pollock website (www.pollockcompany.com) shows some of the remarkable capabilities of 3-D printers.

A new employee, Dinkel Kaur, markets the 3-D printers and provides design services. With a master’s degree in biomedical engineering and experience with 3-D production, she can “speak the same language” as potential clients, Baxter says. Product manufacturers, doctors, dentists, architects and real estate agents are just a few of the potential customers.

Ed Pollock says Ricoh’s interactive whiteboard “is much like a TV monitor with video-conferencing capabilities to display a presentation, but it’s entirely interactive. You can open a PDF or other document, and you can each edit it simultaneously.” For participants, it’s “like you’re sitting in the same room.”

Adding new products reflects a determination to keep up with rapid advances in technology, Pollock says. “In this business if you are not ready and willing to change you won’t be around very long.

Our 51-year history highlights the strategic approach we take to continually provide products, services and solutions that modern businesses require.”

112 Corporate Blvd.

West Columbia, SC 29169 (803) 233-0900 www.pollockcompany.com

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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement

Snelling Staffing Services of the Midlands “Our plan for the future is to continue putting South Carolina back to work, to always be here for our client companies and the generations to come in helping them be successful in their career choices, also counseling those that come through our door to be successful whether we place them or not.”

- Elizabeth Trenbeath, franchise president

Elizabeth Trenbeath, franchise president, Snelling Staffing Services of the Midlands

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or nearly 35 years Snelling Staffing Services of the Midlands has been helping employers find the right workers and helping job seekers advance their careers.

Employers have a big reason for relying on Snelling to help fill positions: time.

“What we see statistically, on average, is that we can save a client company about eight days of their time,” said Elizabeth Trenbeath, president of the Midlands franchise. That’s time and energy that the company can put back into its business, while Snelling conducts the search.

Another advantage for clients is the extensive database that Snelling has built while working with job candidates over the years.

With candidates at the agency’s fingertips, it can fill the positions immediately for them.

For job seekers, the staffing agency offers career counseling, coaching for interviews, software testing, tutoring in use of Microsoft Office, and “hopefully we have an opportunity to place them.”

The resources for applicants are, literally, priceless. “There’s no charge in working with Snelling Staffing at all for the candidate, and there’s no fee for the client company to talk to us until they extend

an offer to our candidate,” Trenbeath said.

Snelling also provides temp and temp-to-hire staffing. The Midlands office has about 110 field employees assigned daily, mainly for office (white collar) jobs, but also for a number of blue collar jobs. Many work for the state of South Carolina. Their fields include administrative accounting, clerical, warehouse, engineering, light industrial and hospitality.

Snelling is long on experience in the Midlands. Trenbeath’s mother, Gina McCuen, opened Snelling’s Lexington franchise in 1982 and bought the Columbia franchise in 2004. Trenbeath joined the company in 1996, and Bryce England, operations manager, also has long tenure. Each member of the management team is a Certified Temporary Specialist, and McCuen is a Certified Personnel Consultant.

Looking to the future, Trenbeath said Snelling plans “to continue putting South Carolina back to work, to always be here for our client companies and the generations to come in helping them be successful in their career choices, also counseling those that come through our door to be successful whether we place them or not.”

114 Haygood Ave., Lexington, SC 29072 6941-G N. Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC 29206 (803) 359-7644 www.snelling.com/midlands Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business

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M. Dillon Construction, Inc.

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- Mike Dillon, president - John Johnson, CEO

Mike Dillon, president, M. Dillon Construction, Inc.

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hether it’s building the cutting edge Twisted Spur Brewery in the heart of the Vista , upfitting office buildings, or numerous state government projects, M. Dillon Construction, Inc., has a reputation of quality workmanship at competitive prices.

“We have a good reputation. We do what we say we are going to do when we say we will do it,” says president Mike Dillon.

M. Dillon Construction, Inc., focuses on commercial work but can also build your dream home. Recent projects include several adult primary care facilities, the Swamp Fox Armory, rehabilitation of a historic church and the new Title Boxing Club, with more to come!

In addition, MDC, Inc., holds an IDC contract for the state as well as building and remodeling all the Little Caesar’s Pizza franchise restaurants in the Midlands.

The company is located in Columbia and primarily operates in South Carolina, with projects reaching as far as North Carolina, Tennessee and Florida.

Owner Mike Dillon has been working in construction since the age of 15. Finding that he had a talent for it, he began his building career

as a laborer. “I love working with my hands. I love the whole aspect of building,” he says. In 1990 Dillon started his first company, Decks Plus.

As a subcontractor, he began taking on bigger and bigger projects.

He qualified for his general contracting license and soon after, M. Dillon Construction was established. With skilled employees, and a talented network of subcontractors, the company is well diversified and continues to grow.

Engaging our team of architects and engineers, “we can design and build anything you want,” Dillon says. Among newer trends are adding up to date energy-efficient products and using more recycled materials. With an emphasis on customer service and continuing education, MDC, Inc., has earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, is a certified Nucor builder and a certified installer of XLT ovens & AVI Hood Systems, ISN Approved Safety Vendor.

“I credit our success to hard work and our good reputation,” Dillon says. “We stand behind our work. We enjoy taking on projects and leaving behind something beautiful. There is a sense of pride in that. We still operate on the principal that a handshake still means something.”

89 Mill Creek Parkway Columbia, SC 29209 (803) 748-8859 www.mdillonconstruction.com

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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement

Complete Employee Services

“Complete Employee Services (CES) brings the benefits of a large corporations human resources department, to its small to mid-size companies.”

- Karen Taylor, CEO

The staff at Complete Employee Services.

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arking its 10 year anniversary, Complete Employee Services is excited to celebrate its past achievements, and looks forward to a bright future working with industry leaders in a wide variety of fields. As a Professional Employer Organization (PEO), CES provides its clients with human resources support and a full suite of employee benefits, workers comp, payroll services, tax compliance, and unemployment claims management. The firm also offers training in leadership, supervision, workplace regulations, employee relations, and many other employment areas. Complete Employee Services health insurance plan with Blue Choice offers the power of numbers to small companies.

CEO Karen Taylor explains, “Essentially we can give a company lower insurance rates by pooling them with other clients, giving advantages only large corporations can get.” The firm can assist with insurance claims and also make sure families receive life insurance benefits in the case of a loss.

CES has an expert accounting team that takes care of payroll tax compliance for clients and can assist with tax credits, such as the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC). “Keeping a company in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations has become a major task,” Taylor says. “Workers comp compliance is complex, and

the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has placed many new requirements on employers relating to health insurance.”

Taylor’s highly trained employees serve a wide range of industries, from road construction to lawyers and doctors. The firm is committed to leveraging the latest technology in order to serve its clients in the most efficient and affordable way, including employee and employer 24/7 portal, scheduling and time and attendance tools.

Complete Employee Services is a member of the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations (NAPEO), an industry group which lobbies and advises on legislation affecting U.S. employers. The PEO industry is heavily regulated in most states, and Complete Employee Services is subject to strict financial integrity metrics that include annual audit requirements.

CES focuses on businesses in the Carolinas and Georgia, but serves clients in 26 states.

“When our clients call , they get a name and a face,” Taylor says.

“We are hands-on and we offer customized solutions to meet each of our client’s unique needs.”

We get you back to business!

While your human assets are taken care of.

2711 Middleburg Drive, Suite 305 Columbia, SC 29204 (803) 255-8190 www.completeemployeeservices.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business

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Resource Realty Group “We come with the same technology, resources and connectivity offered by the larger firms, adding personalized attention to our clients’ needs to enhance the real estate experience with comfort and sophistication throughout each transaction.

Don’t be surprised if you get invited to a concert or baseball game with us!”

- Dustin Johns, Resource Realty Group

Tara Price and Dustin Johns

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ustin Johns refers to his real estate group as “the little big guys.”

Created in the depths of the Great Recession, Resource Realty Group has been “riding the wave” through the recovery to outperform many larger firms.

Johns was a builder when the economy slowed. He saw a need for brokers who spoke the investment language but also understood the construction side of each project.

“So I bridged that gap once construction and development stalled in 2008 and focused all of my efforts into the real estate sector. I shored up investment relationships, which led to bank relationships, which led to taking on agents, which led to more retail sales, and the numbers just kept growing every year.”

Retail sales have been booming – up 34% in the first five months of 2016 – with 17 agents, including five brokers, on board.

RRG recently was ranked 24th in overall volume among 371 brokerages in the Columbia area’s Consolidated Multiple Listing Service. “That’s a pretty solid ranking considering our size compared to other larger companies on that list,” Tara Price, broker in charge, points out.

“We’re the little big guys,” Johns says. “We come with the same technology, resources and connectivity offered by the larger firms, adding personalized attention to our clients’ needs to enhance the real estate experience with comfort and sophistication throughout each transaction. Don’t be surprised if you get invited to a concert or baseball game with us!”

During the recession, the company focused mainly on bankowned and investment properties. While Johns has continued that work, he and the rest of the RRG team have built their thriving general brokerage, which works with all sorts of buyers and sellers, both commercial and residential.

RRG is, for want of a better term, a boutique agency. “Resource Realty has a team or an agent specializing in every type of real estate, whether it be land, commercial space, new home buyers, fixer-uppers,” Johns says, with Price adding, “First-time homeowners, move-up buyers, relocation — you name it, we’ve got it covered.”

And with listings ranging from $5,400 to $4.9 million, “we define diversity and adaptability to properly service our clients.”

1224 Huger St. Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 758-4444 www.resourcecolumbia.com

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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement

Legal Shield

“If you can call an attorney for advice and not receive a bill afterwards, how many times would you have a lawyer work on your behalf?”

- Rachel Ray, LegalShield Independent Associate in South Carolina

Rachel Ray, Independent LegalShield Associate

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egalShield is likened to home or auto benefits—not for everyday use, but you’ll be glad you have it when you need it.

Members in 49 states use LegalShield service plans for a variety of legal work from a network of attorneys for a flat monthly rate.

Established in 1972, LegalShield contracts out with local lawyers to provide legal assistance to clients when needed.

“LegalShield gives you the ability to talk to an attorney regarding any personal legal matter and not have to worry about having to write out a large check afterwards,” said Rachel Ray, LegalShield Independent Associate in South Carolina. “The average American is priced out of getting a family attorney.”

Individual memberships start at $17.95 a month and small business memberships start at $39.99. Membership prices for larger business vary.

Family or individual membership covers legal advice and counsel, letters or phone calls on clients’ behalf, legal document

review (up to 15 pages) and a variety of other services.

Thirty-nine firms handle calls and requests from LegalShield’s members.

For legal needs above what membership covers, Ray said members receive a 25% discount from the law firm’s standard hourly rate.

LegalShield memberships may help save time and money; often a letter or phone call from an attorney can help settle a dispute before a costly legal dispute.

“If you can call an attorney for advice and not receive a bill afterwards, how many times would you have a lawyer work on your behalf?” Ray says “We are a viable option for people and we operate on a month-to-month contract.”

LegalShield complements the company’s sister program, IDShield, which helps protect clients’ identity.

“We’re here to make you less stressed in life and have a little more peace of mind,” Ray says.

P.O. Box 7211 Columbia, SC 29202 (803) 466-8238 www.lowmonthlyfee.net rachelmjray@gmail.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business

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Executive Construction Homes

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- Eddie Yandle, owner

Eddie Yandle and son, Dawson Yandle, of Executive Construction Homes

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leader in innovative building concepts and design, Executive Construction Homes builds homes with superior quality and enduring value. Owner Eddie Yandle takes pride in offering the most advanced technology as a standard feature.

Executive Construction Homes is locally owned by Eddie Yandle.

He is committed to making the Midlands a better place through the company’s charitable contributions. This commitment is also seen in the quality of their homes.

Eddie Yandle has implemented advanced concepts in homes in all price ranges, including the ZIP system and Avantech building system, assisting with energy efficiency and floor systems for superior quality. In June 2016, the builder’s Elite Series homes began featuring Sub-Zero-Wolf appliances. New home contracts after May 2016 include further energy efficiency through Z-Wave Technology, with Family First Security and a system allowing remote monitoring of thermostats, cameras and door locks. A 12 month monitoring service is also included.

Executive Construction Homes’ new neighborhoods include the Courts of Arcadia and Paces Green. The Courts of Arcadia, with homes from the high $300,000s, opened last fall near Arcadia Lakes, featuring the Designer Series homes. The neighborhood’s great location near

downtown can be reached by detour due to current bridge repairs.

Another new community in Lugoff, Paces Green, has started construction in the $160,000s. These homes are three- and fourbedroom with lofts and two- or three-car garages.

Continuing to cater to the demand for luxury single family homes, with maintenance free exteriors, The Villas at Woodcreek Farms continued sales into Phase Two in Summer 2016.

A Certified Master Builder, Eddie Yandle is 2016 president of the Building Industry Association of Columbia, formerly the Home Builders Association. In 2014, he was named Byron Crosthwaite Builder Member of the Year by the association. He has earned the Certified Green Professional designation from the National Association of Home Builders.

Executive Construction Homes builds in Columbia, Elgin, Lexington, Lugoff, Lake Murray and Irmo. The builder is one of the few who will build on an individual homebuyer’s land as well as in planned communities.

Always helping the community, the Yandles support Camp Kemo, Wounded Warrior Project, Pawmetto Lifeline, National Eating Disorders Association, Cardinal Newman School and many other charitable organizations. See website for correspondence address.

Sales Center 1712 Woodcreek Farms Road Elgin, SC 29045 (803) 748-1234 www.echouses.com

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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement

Security Management

“We understand each customer’s unique security needs in today’s world.”

- Paul H. Gillam Jr., President and CEO of Security Management

Security Management can be hired to provide numerous security services.

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hether it’s providing security for a special event or regularly scheduled 24-hour coverage, Security Management is a trusted and reliable firm offering safety, security and peace of mind.

Locally owned and operated with more than 20 years of experience, Security Management’s uniformed personnel have provided security services for clients across the Southeast including the Columbia Fireflies, DHHS, VA Regional Office, Santee Cooper, Georgia Power, several gated communities, and private companies.

“We are 100% focused on one area of expertise—physical security,” says Paul H. Gillam Jr., President and CEO of Security Management.

“We know how to hire and train and we go above and beyond what’s required with our ongoing training.”

The company was created in 1997 by Eugene Henry Moses III to handle security at the Campbell Soup plant in Sumter. The company’s reputation of trust and accountability grew into a full-service security provider with more than 500 employees in South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia.

Services focus on protecting property and personnel. Security Management can be hired to provide armed or unarmed patrol

services; facility access control for day, night and 24-hour coverage; security site surveys and more.

Clients span all industries: government, manufacturing, schools and universities, financial institutions, homeowner’s associations, sports venues and more.

Gillam says the key to the company’s success is hiring professional and qualified people.

“Our screening process is very thorough and has resulted in great officers who take pride in their work and pride in promoting safety,” says Gillam. “We have exceptional employee retention; our turnover rate is well below the industry average.”

The company has been recognized by the SC Workforce Investment Board as an Outstanding Employer Partner for hiring and maintaining a high percentage of military veterans within its workforce.

The firm has found success in forming long-term partnerships with clients for varying levels of security needs.

“We understand each customer’s unique security needs in today’s world,” Gillam says. “We provide them with peace of mind and a healthier, safer environment for their employees and customers.”

2712 Middleburg Plaza Suite 207 Columbia, SC 29204 (803) 775-1259 www.securitymanagementsc.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business

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The Hood Team

The Hood Team Mission Statement is to fulfill the “Pull real estate quote or needs really and awesome desires stat factclients. goes here.

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Than PullExpected quote or really Service awesome to their stat clients or fact a priority goes in a manner exemplified here.” by an - John CEO unsurpassed levelJohnson, of knowledge and professionalism!

Seated: Danny and Karen Hood; standing, Courtney Hood, William DiMaggio

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he Hood Team of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage helps people buy and sell homes in all parts of the Midlands and in all price ranges. That has been Danny and Karen Hood’s goal for over 31 Years – and it had surprising benefits during the Great Recession.

“Our business flourished because we have always assisted people in all price ranges,” Danny Hood says. “Our average sales price dropped, but we were not focused on that.” In fact, during 2008-2011, the Hoods were the No. 1 Coldwell Banker team in South Carolina – and in 2015, they were the No. 1 team for Coldwell Banker in both Carolinas.

The Hood Team is a full-service brokerage serving all needs of those buying or selling a home. With the more than 31 years of Columbia area real estate experience of Danny and Karen, the team now includes son William DiMaggio, Realtor, and daughter-in-law Courtney Hood, business coordinator.

Because of their longevity, the Hood Team knows how to get homes sold and closed. They have expertise in working with inspections, appraisals, the mortgage process and negotiating the best possible

deal for their clients.

“We help people accomplish their goals,” Karen Hood says. “We don’t really sell anything. We figure out what they want and help them to get it.”

Each year, the Hood Team sets a goal of the number of people they will help. They know that if they assist a lot of people, sales volume will follow, as well as recommendations to people that their clients know.

Their service has evolved as the market has changed. Danny and Karen were among the first in the area to film virtual home tours and set up their own website, www.dock-in.com. DiMaggio works primarily with buyers and follows up on internet leads.

Today’s buyer wants a home in move-in condition, a point where the Hood Team excels. Karen Hood has decorating and staging expertise to make a home look its best. They also provide a detailed flier on each of their listings.

The Hood Team is just as comfortable working with a first-time buyer or seller as with the owner of a million-dollar property. With them, “Customer Service is NOT a department . . . it’s an ATTITUDE!!”

7464 Woodrow St. Irmo, SC 29063 (803) 227-3220 www.thehoodteam.com

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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement

Grace Outdoor Advertising

“Locally owned.

Customer focused.”

Grace Stevenson, Hal Stevenson and Diana Stevenson

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race Outdoor Advertising is the only locally owned billboard company in Columbia, offering both traditional and digital billboards across South Carolina and Charlotte. Fully invested in the Midlands community, Grace Outdoor is certified with the Governor’s Office of Small and Minority Business Assistance and has been named a Corporate Philanthropy Champion by the Central Carolina Community Foundation.

“We pride ourselves on providing focused, personal customer service tailored to the local and regional advertising needs of our customers,” comments Diana Stevenson, owner and CEO of Grace Outdoor.

Grace Outdoor brings over 30 years of experience to Columbia.

Diana and Hal Stevenson started their first billboard company 33 years ago. They moved their business to Columbia to be near family, finding a perfect fit for both family and business.

Grace Outdoor owns static billboards along interstates and major roads all over the state. Grace operates digital signs with highresolution LED faces in Columbia, Lexington, Charleston, Greenville, Charlotte and Atlanta. Their skilled in-house graphic artist helps clients achieve just the right image for their advertising needs.

“Digital billboards rotate images, with each image lasting six to eight seconds per slot,” Stevenson explains. “Digital views capture our attention.” Grace Outdoor’s digital sign in Columbia’s Vista has become “like a community bulletin board,” Stevenson says. “When possible, advertising slots are offered to nonprofits, allowing local promotion of important community events.”

Digital billboards allow for expanded flexibility. The image is uploaded remotely and can be easily changed, allowing for creative uses. One local restaurant has used digital to advertise its lunch menu in the morning, changing by early afternoon to highlight happy hour.

Clients can connect Twitter or Instagram to their digital sign, while the S.C. Lottery runs RSS feeds that automatically update the jackpot.

Grace Outdoor is proud to be a family-owned boutique billboard company. “Because of our size, we are able to provide flexible, highquality service,” Stevenson says. “Our flexibility allows the customer to buy just a few days of space or even rotate signs among several locations. We provide strategic, unique advertising options.”

Grace Outdoor Advertising also manages billboards owned by other companies. Hal Stevenson, chief development officer, oversees these billboards while eyeing strategic options for Midlands advertisers.

1201 Lincoln St. Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 719-5188 www.graceoutdoor.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business

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Fortress Builders

“Providing today’s new home buyers with responsible building practices in sustainable neighborhoods, quality and value and desirable locations.”

- Bill Sinnett, owner

Bill Sinnett, left, and Tim Kern of Fortress Builders

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ortress Builders starts with a vision of what home building should be. We are an organiation focused on the customer. As a veteran-owned company, we understand service and believe the service our customers receive is the best the industry has to offer.

Fortress began serving the Columbia, Lexington and Chapin area six years ago. Bill Sinnett and Tim Kern put their combined 25 years of experience in real estate and new home construction together and realized a dream to start their own home-building company in Columbia. Sinnett and Kern and their hand-picked team of sales associates have grown sales 300% since 2010. The company was named a Best Builder by readers of The State newspaper two years in a row for 2014 and 2015 and is a multiple Tour of Homes Winner.

Fortress Builders uses the latest in smart home technology, like Tuxedo Touch monitoring that lets you control your home’s systems remotely. The company is green and certified high-performance with new Energy Pro (HERS) rated building process, which includes high quality materials such as radiant barrier heating, energy efficient windows, advanced frame technology, above code insulation and certification from a 3rd party earning (HERS) score of 30 - 35% or more efficient than other homes.

At Fortress Builders, standard features are other builders’ upgrades.

“At Fortress Builders , we believe the things you want in your new home should come standard” says Sinnett, including upgraded finishes , designer cabinetry and hardware, oak tread staircase and natural stone countertops.

Fortress has a 100% customer satisfaction A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. “And our goal is to keep it that way,” says Sinnett.

“It isn’t just about getting a sale. It is about building the dream of home ownership. We take that seriously,” Kern says.

Fortress is on pace to build and sell over 200 homes in 2016.

“Our goal for 2016 is to continue the success and build in more locations, like Elmwood Park in Downtown Columbia and the newlydesigned low environmental impact green community of Coatbridge in Blythewood.”

Low Impact Development (LID) and Fortress new homes are a perfect fit.

“We’re providing today’s new home buyers with responsible building practices in sustainable neighborhoods, with quality and value in desirable locations,” said Sinnett.

3400 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29204 (803) 461-1525 www.fortressbuilders.com

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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement

The Hobbs Group, P.A.

The staff of The Hobbs Group

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hile CPAs and consultants of The Hobbs Group are celebrating the firm’s 30th anniversary, they are not resting on their laurels.

“We don’t want to be content,” Mark Hobbs, managing shareholder, said. People who are content aren’t looking for new ways to help clients save money, and sometimes aren’t even responding to their calls. “We just don’t operate that way,” he said.

“If somebody calls me and leaves a message I’m going to get back to them, and everybody in our office knows that’s a criterion.”

Responsiveness — putting clients first and getting their issues resolved — has led to success and growth, Hobbs said. “Our pleased clients are our best referral sources.”

The Hobbs Group has an abundance of longtime clients and is constantly growing — adding 200 more just in the first half of 2016. However, when the business was founded in 1986, there were no clients. Hobbs had been with a major CPA firm for several years when he and two colleagues left to start their own practice.

While Hobbs’ partners have since moved on, nearly 30 people now staff the Columbia office and a new office in Greenville.

In addition to Hobbs, there are three other shareholders: Christina Kelly, CPA; Allison Pena, CPA; and Allyson Henderson, CPA, CFE. Rounding out the management committee are Jeff Nates, CPA, CVA, CISA, tax director, and Evan Hobbs, CPA, CVA, manager.

The Hobbs Group offers small-business services, tax services, attestation, consulting and forensic accounting.

Among Hobbs’ favorite clients are private, locally held businesses that are involved in succession planning. “A lot of those people I started with are looking at retirement. I’ve gotten to see the whole cycle of their business operation from start, to the flourishing, to trying to figure out what to do with it.”

As for The Hobbs Group, it will continue to expand. “The brightest people in this profession only want to work for firms that want to grow,” Hobbs said. And energetic, young CPAs are needed to help provide the highest quality of services. “You don’t want to be a ripe banana. You’ve got to be a green banana and constantly growing, because you know what happens to a ripe banana.”

1704 Laurel St. Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 799-0555 www.hobbscpa.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business

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Southern Community Services, AAMC®

“We bring transparency to “Pull quote or really awesome our residents, keep their stat or fact goes here. Pull neighborhoods running quote or really awesome stat smoothly and keep their or fact goes here. Pull quote or HOA boards educated really awesome stat or fact goes and up to date.” here.”

- Ken Tamsin, PCAM®, CMCA®, - John Johnson, CEO AMS®, CEO

Larry Ridlehoover, Ken Tamsin and Chuck Munn

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ne of only six AAMC®-accredited homeowner association management firms in the state, Southern Community Services serves more than 160 communities and 30,000 homes across the Carolinas, including Lake Carolina, Wildewood and Cobblestone Park, The Ascot and The Summit in the Midlands.

The firm offers a full range of services, including homeowner association management, billing and collections, newsletter publishing, architectural review, financial reporting and accounting, CC&R enforcement, budget preparation, vendor relationship management, event planning and more.

“We bring transparency to our residents, keep their neighborhoods running smoothly and keep their HOA boards educated and up to date,” says Ken Tamsin, PCAM®, CMCA®, AMS®, the company’s new CEO. The firm’s industry-leading technology allows community managers to implement homeowner association board decisions quickly and effectively. That includes using mobile tablets to enforce rules in real time and communicate swiftly with residents.

Cutting-edge technology also protects boards’ financial data.

“We take financial security very seriously and have strict accounting protocols in place, with separation of duties and

redundancy that provide a very high level of security to safeguard our clients’ association funds,” says Larry Ridlehoover, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM®, President. “Technological advancements and financial security protocols resonate with our clients and are a big part of why homeowner association boards choose us.”

Southern Community Services’ community managers receive extensive training and professional development on an ongoing basis through the Community Associations Institute, the industry’s national accrediting organization, enabling them to deliver the highest quality service while addressing the unique needs of each community.

With more than a dozen new homeowner association clients statewide in the last year—and with Tamsin now at the helm—Southern Community Services plans to grow even more.

“It was imperative that we find just the right individual to help lead our executive management team, and Ken is the perfect fit for our team at SCS,” says Chuck Munn, Vice President.

“Our mission is to provide professional, trustworthy, and consistent community management services to homeowner associations throughout the Carolinas,” Tamsin says. “We look forward to expanding our client base in a measured, responsible fashion that ensures the best possible service for our new and existing clients.”

101 Rice Bent Way, Suite 11 Columbia, SC 29229 (803) 251-9171 ext. 111 www.TrustSCS.com

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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement

Kershaw County Economic Development “What makes us stand out in Kershaw County is the way we work together to create an environment of success.

It’s the way we treat people and the commitment we have to make our community better today and in the future.”

- Peggy McLean, director, Kershaw County Economic Development

Peggy McLean, director of Kershaw County Economic Development, left; Lauren Reeder, marketing and administrative manager, right

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lmost every county in South Carolina has a dedicated economic development department tasked with bringing in new businesses and growing existing industries.

In Kershaw County, Peggy McLean, director of Kershaw County Economic Development, has been recognized as the best in the state.

McLean was named the Local Developer of the Year by the South Carolina Economic Developers’ Association during the group’s 2016 annual conference. The award was based on the large number of projects she helped bring to Kershaw County, which borders Richland, Fairfield and Lancaster counties.

“We had three major expansions valued at over $200 million in new capital investment and over 550 new jobs,” McLean says. “I’m extremely pleased about the total wages that will be created by these new jobs – estimated at over $19 million annually.”

The main objective for the department is to promote Kershaw County as an attractive place to do business. That includes marketing and advertising to prospective industries as well as providing information about the county’s taxes, permitting and other services.

80 Campus Drive Camden, SC 29020 (803) 425-7685 www.kershawcountysc.org

For example, all of the county’s industrial parks are “move-in ready,” with water, sewer, electric and telecommunications on site.

“We work with companies directly and provide them all the information they need,” McLean says. “We are the conduit to the resources required to start or grow their business.”

Kershaw County Economic Development works closely with industry leaders and elected officials on ways to improve the business climate.

A recent success was working with the Kershaw County Council to approve up to $17 million in bonds that will be used to improve the county’s industrial parks, sites and buildings.

“That is a huge commitment by our county leadership—one that will support the economic future of our community,” McLean says.

The department also works with local schools and technical colleges on workforce needs.

“What makes us stand out in Kershaw County is the way we work together to create an environment of success,” McLean says.

“It’s the way we treat people and the commitment we have to make our community better today and in the future.”

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business

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GMK Associates, Inc.

“With our 50-year history, we have built long-term relationships and we put our clients’ needs above all else.”

- Tom Monahan, Chairman of the Board

Standing: Jeff Neuman, Jeff Baker, John Whetstone, Frank Golson, Ryan McCormick, Jeff Bernagozzi. Seated: Barbara Summerford, Brooke Pearsall

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MK Associates, Inc., is celebrating 50 years of designing and constructing landmark buildings throughout the Southeast.

Established in 1966, GMK is a multi-disciplinary planning, design and construction services firm focused on niche markets in the health care, education, government, utility, senior living and hospitality industries.

The firm was started by Clemson graduates William “Bill” Geiger Jr., a land developer; Don McElveen, an engineer; and Robert Kennedy Jr., an architect. Today, 70 professionals work at GMK in five distinct divisions — architecture, engineering, interior design, design-build and construction services.

“With our 50-year history, we have built long-term relationships and we put our clients’ needs above all else” says Tom Monahan, GMK’s board chairman.

GMK primarily focuses on health care and public-sector projects, including hospitals, hospices, ambulatory surgery centers, medical office buildings, college/university campus facilities, and other government buildings. GMK’s interiors division also serves the senior living industry, and GMK’s construction services division manages K-12 building programs.

“Much of our work has been geared toward the ‘design-build’ market, which combines our service offerings and represents a turnkey approach,” says Jeff Neuman, marketing director. “The team is already in place; we can use our in-house architects, engineers, interior designers and construction resources to complete the whole project more quickly and often at a lower cost.”

When GMK began offering design-build services, the approach was fairly new in the area, Neuman says. “That’s one way GMK built its reputation. We were one of the pioneers in the industry.”

With $4 billion in total projects, some notable GMK projects include the Capitol Center high rise on Main Street; the Koger Center for the Arts; the Richland County Judicial Center and the original School of Business at the University of South Carolina.

Recent highlights include the renovation of the historic Chappelle Auditorium at Allen University and the construction of a new Ronald McDonald House on the campus of Palmetto Health Richland.

With an eye on the future, GMK is expanding into new markets and adding new leadership. “We have an incredibly responsive design and construction team, and we emphasize building exactly what each client needs within their budgets,” Monahan says.

1201 Main St., Suite 2100 Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 256-0000 www.gmka.com

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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement

Modern Exterminating Company Inc.

“We want to continue the success and growth we have had for many more years.

We’re excited about the future here.”

- Glenn Matthews, owner and president

Glenn Matthews

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hen George G. Matthews Sr. and Katherine Matthews opened Modern Exterminating Company more than 60 years ago, Columbia was a much different place – but it had the same needs for pest and termite control that it has today.

“My grandfather had worked for Orkin but lost his job when the company was sold,” says Glenn Matthews, owner and president.

“Pest control was all he knew, so he and my grandmother started this company. They had two customers when they started – one of them we still have.”

Modern Exterminating has grown to serve more than 11,000 customers in six Midlands counties. They offer complete pest and termite control, mosquito reduction and real estate closing letters (CL-100s). The company has always done general repair work, Matthews says, but has become a one-stop shop for repairs, providing tile work, sump pump replacement, hardwood floor repairs, gutters, window frame coverings and many other services. After the October flooding in the Columbia area, Modern Exterminating was busy helping homeowners with dehumidification and moisture barriers.

The company, now located in Elmwood Park, has always had

its operations downtown. It serves primarily residential customers with some commercial accounts. The mosquito control business is booming this year because of worries about the Zika virus, Matthews says.

The biggest change for the company is technology. Employees now have hand-held tablets, and service orders can be sent directly to them in the field. “We used to have to go to a pay phone at lunchtime and call the office to get messages,” Matthews explains.

Modern Exterminating stands out because of its quality work, longevity in business and local ownership. The company has 37 full-time employees, many of whom have been with the company for 20, 30, even 50 years. The business has been carefully handed from one generation to the next, with George Matthews Jr. leading it before turning it over to his son, Glenn, who began his career on a termite truck crawling under houses.

Modern Exterminating has won many honors, including Best of Columbia from The State and Columbia Metropolitan, Better Business Bureau Standards of Trust and Angie’s List Super Service Award. The company is a member of the S.C. Pest Control Association and National Pest Management Association.

2119 Gadsden St. Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 765-2315 www.modernexterminatingcoinc.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business

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