Columbia Book of Experts 2010

EXPERTS 20

Sponsored by

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Beyond benefits.

Healthier companies.

Call Clarke & Company Benefits today and see how our in-house wellness coordinator, Valerie Musick, can help your company implement programs to help your employees live healthier. Clarke & Company is empowering companies by educating employees on ways to make healthier lifestyle choices.

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BOOK OF EXPERTS from the publisher Publisher - Bob Bouyea bbouyea@scbiznews.com • 803.401.1094, ext. 200

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ere it is! We are proud to present to you our inaugural issue of the Columbia Regional Business Report’s Book of Experts. One of the things I’ve noticed as I travel around the Midlands is its diversity of businesses, from manufacturing to technology firms to health care and much more in between. All of these organizations are loaded with talented people.

Going about our daily routines, it is easy to allow what makes the Midlands unique fade into the background and to forget about all the expertise that is at our fingertips.

Hence the Book of Experts. We created a vehicle in which some of these companies could offer our readers a small sample of the knowledge they possess. The narrative format of the Book of Experts allows these advertisers to demonstrate their knowledge of topics that are sometimes too complex for the usual display advertising format. In addition, we feel the information provided in these pages delivers value to you as you search for information that can help you make wise decisions for your business and personal life.

Enjoy.

Managing Editor - Andy Owens aowens@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3141 Senior Copy Editor - Beverly Morgan bmorgan@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3115 Special Projects Editor Allison Cooke Oliverius aoliverius@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3149 Staff Writer - Mike Fitts mfitts@scbiznews.com • 803.401.1094, ext. 204 Research Specialist - Clayton Wynne cwynne@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3114 Production Manager/Art Director S. Kevin Greene kgreene@scbiznews.com • 864.235.5677, ext. 36 Senior Account Executive - Sue Gordon sgordon@scbiznews.com • 803.401.1094, ext. 202 Account Executive - Robert Reilly rreilly@scbiznews.com • 803.401.1094, ext. 203 Account Executive - Robbi Statham rstatham@scbiznews.com • 803.401.1094, ext. 207 Circulation Manager - Kathy Allen kallen@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3113 Circulation Assistant - Kim McManus kmcmanus@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3116 Contributing Writer - Lydia Dishman

Bob Bouyea Publisher South Carolina’s Media Engine for Economic Growth

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Vickie Deadmon vdeadmon@scbiznews.com • 864.235.5677

Special Advertising Supplement | Book of Experts 2010 | Columbia Regional Business Report

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FEATURED EXPERTS Anchor Investment Management....................................................................................14 Care Pro Health Services.....................................................................................................4 CB Richard Ellis/Columbia.................................................................................................15 Clarke & Company Benefits..............................................................................................16 Coal Powered Filmworks..................................................................................................10 Complete Employee Services..............................................................................................8 Intramed Plus.......................................................................................................................6 Long Term Care Solutions.................................................................................................11 McWaters, Inc....................................................................................................................12 Meetze Plumbing................................................................................................................5 New Horizons of South Carolina........................................................................................9 Pollock Company.................................................................................................................7 Prudential Midlands Real Estate......................................................................................13 Snelling Staffing Services....................................................................................................3

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Columbia Regional Business Report | Book of Experts 2010 | Special Advertising Supplement

STAFFING SNELLING STAFFING SERVICES

Elizabeth Trenbeath

How to Save Money When Hiring a New Employee

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lizabeth Trenbeath wants business owners and department managers to know that time spent wading though paperwork and screening potential candidates for an open position is taking money away from their business. Don’t believe her? Just add it up. As president of Snelling Staffing, she knows that the time spent creating an ad, answering phone calls, wading through resumes, and then doing interviews can amount to dozens of hours.

“And it’s not just the hiring manager’s time, but other staff is taken off their jobs as well,” Trenbeath points out. To get that time and productivity back into the business, Trenbeath recommends working with a professional staffing agency.

“We eliminate those steps. Using our best recruiting practices, we’ll present 3 to 5 carefully screened candidates with references checked,” explains Trenbeath.

But Snelling Staffing goes beyond simply screening resumes. Trenbeath notes that clients will also get peace of mind knowing that each candidate goes through a rigorous interview process at the agency and passes a national background check, drug testing, and e-verification. After 28 years in the business, Snelling Staffing has amassed a database of over 20,000 of these meticulously screened potential candidates with expertise in a variety of industries.

Snelling Staffing has six employees, two offices, and a dedicated medical division to help owners and managers save time and money in the hiring process. Trenbeath says Snelling Staffing has the capacity to keep up to 200 temporary employees on its payroll per day, and can assist in placing temporary or temp-tohire workers in an array of positions including administrative, executive secretary, information technology,

accounting, manufacturing and distribution and medical.

Trenbeath says,“We always look to deliver results with staffing expertise that connects people and businesses with the power to thrive.”

AT A G L A N C E Years in business

28.5 Number of Candidates in the Database

20,036 Number of Career Placements since 1982

1,500 Number of Assignments for Temp or Temp-to-Hire since 2004

15,025 Phone:

(803) 359-7644 (803) 790-7171 Web site: www.snelling.com/midlands

Special Advertising Supplement | Book of Experts 2010 | Columbia Regional Business Report

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HEALTH SERVICES CARE PRO

Charles and Valerie Aiken

What You Need To Know Before You Choose a Home Care Provider

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f you or a loved one are in need of short-term care in the hospital or long-term care at home, would you know how to select a qualified provider that you can trust? Valerie Aiken, director of Care Pro, says you must first assess what kind of care the potential patient needs.“You need to know if they will require skilled services provided by a nurse or therapist, or if they’ll only need assistance with basic chores,” she says explaining that South Carolina doesn’t require general home care providers to be licensed.

That’s why Aiken recommends seeking out a reputable company that has a history of trustworthy service. “Care Pro has been serving the community for over a decade. We do thorough screenings of all our staff including drug testing, criminal background checks, and previous employment history,”Aiken explains.

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Next, she says, the provider should be able to communicate with the potential patient or their primary caregiver to determine the best fit. “Care Pro examines many factors before we place a home care worker with a patient,” she says. For example, someone strong to help with lifting, or talkative if the patient needs companionship.

Another important component is monitoring. “If the patient isn’t capable of supervising their own care, look for a provider willing to work closely with a family member or other primary caregiver,” says Aiken.

Care Pro does this as well as offer 24-hour remote monitoring. “Our nurses can check oxygen and insulin levels, blood pressure, heart rate and other vitals via equipment placed in the home,” she notes. Should any trouble arise, Care Pro’s staff notifies the patient’s doctor immediately.

Columbia Regional Business Report | Book of Experts 2010 | Special Advertising Supplement

This avoids costly trips to the emergency room and unnecessary travel to a physician’s office.

Above all, Aiken stresses, “With more emphasis placed on the ability to offer quality, prompt, and cost-effective health care services, Care Pro provides personnel you can count on.”

AT A G L A N C E Year Founded

1998 Number of Local Employees

900 Top Local Executives

Valerie Aiken, Charles Aiken, Henry Motes Phone:

(800) 395-6331 Web site: www.careprohh.com

plumbing services Meetze Plumbing

Joe Larned and Lynn Hobby

Looking for a Plumber?

Don’t Get Taken to the Cleaners

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ots of people – business and home owners alike – don’t think about their plumbing until it’s an emergency. But whether you’ve got an overflowing toilet in the middle of the night or you’ve known your water heater’s been on the fritz for a while, it’s important to consider who’s behind the name in the phone book.

Kevin Meetze, the second generation owner of Meetze Plumbing, understands. “Plumbing is sometimes an unexpected expense,” Meetze says. So to serve customers in a challenging economy, his company offers proactive plumbing services to help solve issues before they become a problem.

Customers can call for a free estimate, get quotes up front, and discuss the work in detail with Meetze’s staff to know exactly what a job entails before anyone lifts a wrench.

They can also submit plumbing questions or service calls via the company website.

To keep in step with the latest green technology, Meetze says, “We offer customers the most advanced equipment to help solve plumbing issues and save on energy costs. Meetze Plumbing is dedicated in doing our part to help preserve our planet and to help our customers do the same.”

Should something go wrong, Meetze says rest assured. They’ve developed a reputation for 24-hour on-call responses and always send plumbers with a fully stocked truck to minimize supply trips. “We hire only the best plumbers and have extensive systems in place to get the job done quickly at a competitive price,” he explains.“We know how to work within a budget, and no matter the extent of the work. We take every job seriously,” adds Meetze.

“My father started this business in 1981,” notes Meetze, “We’ve grown by staying true to a simple philosophy: our customers come first and they deserve the highest quality work we can possibly provide.”

AT A G L A N C E Accredited by

Better Business Bureau The Association of General Contractors of America The Mechanical Contractors Association of South Carolina Phone:

(803) 732-DRIP (3747) Web site: www.meetzeplumbing.com

Special Advertising Supplement | Book of Experts 2010 | Columbia Regional Business Report

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infusion services Intramed Plus

Varner Richards, Pharm. D., Owner

Save Money on Health Care Costs with Home Drug Infusion Services

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o one wants to deprive a loved one of quality health care, but Varner Richards, Pharm. D., owner of Intramed Plus, wants you to know there’s a way to save money on the high cost of hospitalization by using home drug infusion services. Richards explains, “It’s an alternative to extended hospital care for medically stable patients requiring intravenous or nutrition therapy. Patients receive medical treatment in a safe, cost-effective way, in the comfort of their own home.”

According to Dr. Richards, hospital stays average $2000 per day. Compare that to therapies provided by Intramed Plus where the cost drops to around $75-150 per day. “And it’s covered by most commercial insurance and government funded policies,” he adds noting the staff at Intramed Plus competently handles the medical billing according to the patient’s health insurance benefits.

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If you are contemplating a switch to a home drug therapy service, Dr. Richards suggests asking the following questions: Will I get ample training? While Intramed Plus is a pharmacy, their nurse clinicians will often visit the patient while they are still hospitalized to begin initial therapy training.

“Depending on where they live, we may be there for their first time infusing at home,” he says. A professional approach gives the patient confidence to maintain independence even while receiving a drug infusion.

Is there a clinical team to monitor my therapy while I’m at home?

“Intramed Plus does a full assessment of patient needs and customizes that therapy so they can be successful treating themselves,”says Dr. Richards. His clinical team coordinates with patients‘ healthcare providers to ensure therapies are working correctly.

Columbia Regional Business Report | Book of Experts 2010 | Special Advertising Supplement

Do I have access to on-call support? “We are on-call 24 hours a day if patients have any difficulty with a pump or dose. We can give instruction over the phone or visit them. We can also call a doctor on their behalf.”

What is my financial liability? – Dr. Richards says an infusion service provider should be up-front about charges and treatment options. “If it’s not feasible, the provider should help look for alternatives.”

AT A G L A N C E Address:

112 Saluda Ridge Ct., Ste 100, West Columbia, SC 29169 Phone:

(803) 794-0200 (800) 767-6337 Web site: www.intramedplus.com

BUSINESS MACHINES POLLOCK company

Joe Pollock, Owner

Is Your Document Technology Working for Your Business?

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ocuments allow information to flow in and out of your business, and are therefore crucial to day-to-day operations. However, most business owners don’t think about document workflow until a copier or printer breaks down. That’s when it’s important to have a good relationship with your office equipment service provider, says Joe Pollock, so you don’t waste a minute of valuable time and productivity.

As the owner of Pollock Company, one of the largest independent document management solutions providers in the Southeast, Pollock understands that businesses can only grow if all systems are working seamlessly. “Our industry is in transition,” explains Pollock, “so you want a service provider who is small enough to be flexible and accountable, yet large enough to stay current

with technology –and be there quickly when there is a need for service.”

To ensure everything from desktop printers to high-speed, high-volume production equipment stays worryfree, Pollock recommends working with a provider who can deliver a variety of options, network connections, software and service. Pollock Company works with such reliable manufacturers as Konica Minolta and Canon.“Having more than one product line means there’s no forcing a product to fit a niche because it’s the only one available,” he says.

Additionally, Pollock points out, that most document management service providers are branch offices of large corporations that may not store parts locally, and do their billing, leasing and dispatching remotely.

“Our managed print services division handles everything from a desktop printer to an actual print shop and

supplies with consolidated billing to help lower clients’ operating costs.”

Finally, Pollock says, after 45 years in business, his company continues to prove it’s committed to its clients and the community. Many of our employees have been doing this for a decade or more. Anyone can sign a contract once. We want our customers to be with us for the long term.”

AT A G L A N C E Primary Product or Service

Document management equipment, service and support Year Founded

1965 Phone:

(803) 233-0900 Web site: www.pollockcompany.com

Special Advertising Supplement | Book of Experts 2010 | Columbia Regional Business Report

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HR SERVICES complete employee services

Back to front: (left to right) Stuart Williams, Katie Kelley, Thom Taylor, Mary Ellen White, Allison Dobbs, Karen Taylor, Sarah Singer, Anne E. Lamb

How a Professional Employer Organization can Help Your Business Reduce Costs

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As a business owner, Karen Taylor understands how hard it is to turn off after hours, especially if there is a problem within the company. “It sits on your mind and is constantly distracting,” says the owner of Complete Employee Services. Many entrepreneurs get into business because they want to do something they love. Oftentimes, they wind up with a plateful of tasks beyond their expertise.

“An owner’s time is valuable and shouldn’t be burdened with administrative headaches such as payroll, worker’s compensation, and benefits,” Taylor says.

When business owners become bogged down in these issues, or have to assign the work to staff already saddled with other work, the burden can become costly – in both time and money. That’s when 8

she recommends partnering with a Professional Employer Organization (PEO).

A PEO is like a “souped up Human Resources department,” explains Taylor. In a “co-employer” partnership, the PEO acts as a onestop provider that allows owners of small to mid-size companies to get back to work, while providing benefits usually only available at much larger companies.

This relationship allows the PEO to assume many employment related responsibilities and risks, offer employee safety training when needed, and create state compliance handbooks or company guidelines among other services.

Taylor’s firm does just that and more. Taylor’s Sales manager and husband Thom points out that using a PEO makes a significant impact on the bottom line. “I’d say 95

Columbia Regional Business Report | Book of Experts 2010 | Special Advertising Supplement

cases out of 100 we’ve saved companies on workers comp rates.”

Karen Taylor says, “We even go to bat for health insurance claims.”

Partnering with her firm, says Taylor, can save 20% to 40% of staff time and allows business owners to concentrate increasing their bottom line. She says, “With us, you know it’s handled.”

AT A G L A N C E Phone:

(803) 255-8190 Web site: www.completeemployeeservices.com

computer training NEW HORIZONS of south carolina

Jeffrey H. Moses, General Manager / Owner

Now, More than Ever – Your Employees are Your Most Important Resource

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f your company is trying to do more with less by cutting back on employee training and development, you are among the many businesses taking a “sit tight” strategy as the economy sputters.

“Tough economic times require an aggressive cost-mitigation strategy,” says Jeff Moses, owner of New Horizons Computer Learning Centers of South Carolina,“but they often come with the additional price of decreased employee productivity resulting from an unsure, distracted, and stressedout workforce.”

Moses maintains that a company’s employees are its most important resource. In order to get the most productivity from them during tough economic times, he recommends three courses of action.

Communicate - “It’s extremely important to communicate changes in the company quickly,” says Moses. Many

successful small businesses hold“town hall”style meetings with their staff regularly to notify employees of changes from a trusted source and a chance to ask questions. “Promoting good communication also promotes trust and confidence,”which helps mitigate gossip and job stress during times of major economic change, Moses adds.

Provide Training and Development – “As workers take on expanded responsibilities, it’s important for small businesses to offer some type of professional development to help employees keep up,” says Moses.

“Training programs increase job satisfaction for employees by allowing them to build new skills and assume more challenging roles.”

Even if your company cannot provide third-party training, Moses suggests hosting simple businessrelated courses. Cutting staff development completely increases the

risk of losing good employees - even in today’s job market.

Be Encouraging and Optimistic – Moses believes it’s hard to stay optimistic amid so much bad news about the economy.“Do everything you possibly can to keep morale up,” he advises. Above all, “Keep bad news in perspective and discourage speculation or rumors. If employees feel you are doing everything you can for them they will remain committed to helping your business through restless times.”

AT A G L A N C E Phone:

(803) 935-0555 Web site: www.newhorizonssc.com

Special Advertising Supplement | Book of Experts 2010 | Columbia Regional Business Report

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VIDEO PRODUCTION Coal Powered Filmworks

Wade Sellers, Owner

Three Things You Should Ask Before You Hire a Production Company

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here are plenty of video production companies out there sporting the latest technology and talking a good game about how they have the tools to tell your story with a visual message that best represents all your hard work. The problem, says Wade Sellers, is that not many of them are willing to work with you.“A good production company will want to create a relationship with you for the duration of the project and beyond.” he says “Producing media is as much about knowing our client as it is about creativity.” To communicate your message in the most effective way, Sellers recommends asking the following questions: Does the production company keep your needs at the forefront?

Sellers advises setting up an indepth meeting before you agree to sign on the dotted line. “At our first meetings, we at Coal Powered Film10

works ask a lot of questions about why the client wants to create a commercial or video,”he says. In this way, Sellers’ team can not only get a feel for the business, but also the enthusiasm and passion behind it. “That helps us zero in on creative plan.”

Can they communicate creatively?

Finding this out is a matter of looking at a production company’s past work. Sellers says don’t be shy, request a show reel to get a sense of how they’ve handled previous clients. “Check their credentials and talk to previous clients,” says Sellers adding,“We encourage people to talk to our clients about the process.”

Do they have a team mentality?

With nearly two decades in the film business, Sellers knows that working as a team is the most effective way to create media. He cautions against using a company that keeps the client on the fringe of the project

Columbia Regional Business Report | Book of Experts 2010 | Special Advertising Supplement

in the name of expertise.“Collaboration opens up creativity. Whether it is two people or thirty everybody has a specific and important role and the client is a vital part of that.”

AT A G L A N C E Years of Experience

16 Services

Video and Film Production, Motion Design and Editorial.

Clients

Range from government to corporate and private clients including the SC State Treasurer’s Office, Riverbanks Zoo, and Metso Minerals.

Phone:

(803) 256-9787 Web site: www.coalpoweredfilmworks.com

Harry Crosby, Long Term Care Insurance Specialist

long term care insurance

Long Term Care Solutions

Could Your Business Pay for Your Long-term Care?

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eart disease, cancer, stroke, accidents and Alzheimer’s are the leading causes of death in America according to a recent study by the CDC. Yet all too often these deaths come after extended periods of constant care that come at a high cost. Concerned?

You have a right to be.

“Many business owners believe long-term care insurance is the logical way to plan for a health care crisis,” says Harry Crosby, general insurance agent and author of Long Term Care Insurance: The Complete Guide.

Crosby cautions that before anyone decides to purchase long term care insurance they need to determine if they’re at risk and vulnerable.

The Society of Actuaries estimates that 600 out of every 1,000 people will require some form of longterm care. Though no one wants to dwell on the possibility of needing care at home or in an assisted living facility, most people don’t know

that Medicare covers very little of long term care and Medicaid only pays when you are impoverished.

What’s more, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) states it’s a federal crime to “knowingly and willfully” transfer financial assets to qualify for Medicaid coverage for any long term care services.

The alternative is crisis management and paying with existing savings. “Unfortunately, many people’s savings couldn’t cover several years of long term care,” says Crosby.

If you don’t want your family or business associates to manage a crisis when you need care, he urges you to think about where you’ll get your care, who will manage it, and how you plan to pay for it.

Crosby says, “Long-term care insurance may be the solution if you are still healthy enough to qualify for coverage.” Younger people may also qualify for policy discounts

and business owners may qualify for tax benefits. Work with a fulltime insurance representative who specializes in long term care to help find the right plan says Crosby. “None of us can ever know what tomorrow holds.”

AT A G L A N C E Insurance

85% of Americans over age 45 have no insurance against the costs of long-term care.

(Best’s Review) 3/4 of Americans would prefer to receive professional care at home rather than have a room in an assisted care facility.

(American Society on Aging) Phone:

(803) 753-4244 Web site: www.long-termcareinsurance.com

Special Advertising Supplement | Book of Experts 2010 | Columbia Regional Business Report

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workplace furnishings Mcwaters

Joey Mixson, General Sales Manager

New Trends in Workplace Furnishings

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orkspaces speak volumes about a company and the way it does business.

While aesthetics and quality furnishings are important, it’s equally important to be functional for clients and staff. And the increasing presence of advanced technology presents a new set of challenges. Joey Mixson, general sales manager at McWaters, has observed recent industry trends that demand interior solutions that are both innovative and adaptable.

Health Care – The high-use nature of health care facilities dictates that furniture and equipment be durable, functional, and easy to clean.

Infection control is a major concern industry-wide, which is evident in how products are now manufactured and specified. “We furnish everything from the lobby to administrative spaces to patient rooms, nurses stations and beyond,” he says, “So, we spend a lot of time with

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customers programming on specifics that impact how easily products can be cleaned and kept clean in regards to fabric, finish and design.”

Government – Mixson says the government and military presence in South Carolina is growing and changing. In veteran’s health care facilities, Department of Defense, as well as administrative operations, “There’s a need for security and the ability to adapt to technology.” McWaters furnishes spaces that demand a high level of privacy with the ability to accommodate changes in office and health care equipment.

Higher Education – “Today’s classroom is a very different learning environment,” Mixson says noting that McWaters’ products support students’ work, study, and collaboration in learning labs and libraries, as well as traditional classrooms.

“Research and technology have brought products and concepts that

Columbia Regional Business Report | Book of Experts 2010 | Special Advertising Supplement

have changed the way we teach and learn,” he explains.

That’s the overall key, says Mixson, to workplace solutions that work. “For the past 65 years we’ve created innovative spaces that meet contemporary needs but allow for future change and help our clients achieve their goals.”

AT A G L A N C E Primary Product or Service

Commercial Furnishings and Interiors Top Local Executive

William Gresham Year Founded

1946 Phone:

(803) 256-8303 Web site: www.mcwaters.com

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE Prudential Midlands Real Estate

Brenda Hanna, Broker-in-Charge

Three Things Sellers Should Know Before They Put Their House on the Market

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hough the economic signs are good, the housing market is taking time to rebound.

That’s why if you are planning to sell your home, Brenda Hanna, brokerin-charge at Prudential Midlands Real Estate, advises getting every bit of expertise you can.“This is no time for a For Sale By Owner (FSBO),” she cautions, “if don’t have an agent you may not have a realistic idea of what your bottom line price should be.” Price a property too high and you could risk not being able to sell at all, even if you drop it later.

Hanna says local experts can help you set fair-market prices using factual reference points, such as an appraisal, comparable sales, and personal knowledge. Today, a house priced at or slightly below market value will attract the interest of real estate professionals and buyers.

That doesn’t mean potential sell-

ers shouldn’t do their homework.

Hanna encourages them to check out the competition by attending open houses or have an agent show comparable homes. “Pay close attention to what homes in your area have actually sold for, not the original asking price,” says Hanna.

Then she says, clean out and clean up. Get rid anything that is just clutter. Paint scuffed walls, freshen landscaping, and do all the maintenance that’s been put off. “Take a walk around your property and look at it as a perspective buyer would. Remember people are making their first impression as they pull up to your house, walk up the driveway, and stand at the door waiting to enter.”

Finally, Hanna recommends keeping an open mind about pricing.

“Look at an offer as an expression of interest in your home and the start of negotiation.”

Prudential Midlands Real Estate opened in 2006 and now has over 30 agents who are certified relocation specialists and experts in pricing to sell.

AT A G L A N C E Seller Satisfaction

Prudential Real Estate Network is recognized for “Highest Overall Satisfaction for Home Sellers among National Full Service Real Estate Firms” in J.D. Power and Associates’ 2010 Home Buyer/Seller Study.

Phone:

(803) 409-0830 Web site: www.prudentialmidlands.com

Special Advertising Supplement | Book of Experts 2010 | Columbia Regional Business Report

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INVESTMENTS Anchor Investment Management

Left to right: Gary Dannelly, Margaret Ellen Pender, Carole Moser, John Moorman; seated: Pat Dorn

Investing in Volatile Times

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hether you are new to the world of investing or are a seasoned follower of the markets, a catch phrase you are likely to hear now is “the new normal.” This phrase describes not only the erratic behavior of the U.S. and international markets, but also a new era to which the world is adjusting that involves more than just low interest rates and a barrage of unnerving headlines; it’s a world searching for returns that are difficult to find. To navigate such turbulent waters successfully, it helps to have a qualified partner as your investment adviser.

John Moorman, a principal at Anchor Investment Management, can attest that the easy money days of the 1990s are gone. Now, he says, it takes diligent, focused research matched with appropriate expectations to protect and grow invest-

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ments. Anchor’s portfolio turnover is low by industry standards, a strategy that is intentional. “We favor tax efficient compounding of wealth, but we are flexible enough to adapt to market changes and individual needs,” says Moorman.

With years of experience and access to quality independent research, Anchor builds portfolios that will meet the needs of clients now, and in the future. Pat Dorn, founder of and also a principal at Anchor, adds, “We are bound by a strict fiduciary standard, meaning that we have pledged to have the clients’ best interest at the heart of every decision. We strive to help clients establish their tolerance for risk and their time horizon for investment.”

As you review your assets and your goals, ask yourself: Do I have an adviser that I can trust to know me and know the market, is time-

Columbia Regional Business Report | Book of Experts 2010 | Special Advertising Supplement

tested, and makes decisions in my best interest? Volatility will ebb and flow; sound advice and guidance will steady the boat.

AT A G L A N C E Founded

2000 Manages

Individual portfolios of $500,000 and greater; fee-only compensation.

Current Assets under Management

$155 million Experience

Our professionals have a combined 140 years of experience in investments and related fields.

Phone:

(803) 790-6654 Web site: www.anchorinvestmentmanagement.com

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE CB Richard ellis|columbia

Martin A. Moore and Mary Winter Teaster

Why You Need an Experienced Agent to Navigate a Challenging Commercial Property Market

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ith the economy in turmoil, the question on everyone’s mind, especially regarding commercial real estate is,“Have we reached bottom yet?”

Mary Winter Teaster, managing director of CBRE|Columbia says, “Though recovery is happening incrementally, we are very careful about making optimistic assumptions. Clients need well-founded advice and expertise when making decisions about real estate.”

“Our expectations of a continued slip in occupancy and asking rental rates through mid-year 2010 were accurate,” states Martin Moore, CCIM, SIOR, an office leasing and sales specialist at CBRE|Columbia. Though leasing activity has continued, Moore says the market is still difficult for landlords.

“Many landlords have continued to see a squeeze in real rent forcing them to make the deals they can for the sake

of cash flow. Therefore, landlords are marketing properties more aggressively than ever. These challenging times demand quality management of buildings, leases and tenants. Top priorities are tenant relationships and cost containments that are innocuous to tenants. Landlords should work closely with an agent who can act as a conduit to their tenant, as well as provide guidance and cost-effective property solutions.”

An abundance of inventory has created a tenants’ market. Consequently, tenants can secure long-term leases at favorable rates and reap the benefit long after the market changes. “In some cases, tenants may be able to move up a class in building,” Moore says, “but this requires expertise. The lease rate is only one aspect of the relationship between tenant and landlord. It’s a relationship that will last for years to come.”

“CBRE|Columbia has access to information and specialized service groups across the nation that is unmatched,” Teaster says. “In today’s market, agents’ roles have expanded.

They are required to have a much higher degree of knowledge and specialization. Our range of experienced brokers spans the retail, office, industrial, land and investment property landscape. Now, more than ever, you need an expert guide.”

AT A G L A N C E Top Local Executives

Mary Winter Teaster Martin A. Moore Phone:

(803) 779-7777 Web site: www.cbre.com/columbia

Special Advertising Supplement | Book of Experts 2010 | Columbia Regional Business Report

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CORPORATE WELLNESS PROGRAMS

Clarke & Company Benefits LLC

Sitting (left to right): Edwin Croft, Scott Gambrell. Standing: Kristen Kunkel, Jennifer Holly, Norman Clarke, Laura Howell, Kristi Hunter, Valerie Music

How a Corporate Wellness Program Can Keep Your Bottom Line Healthy

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veryone knows it’s important to exercise, eat right, and get the proper amount of sleep but did you know having healthy employees can save your business money? “Healthier employees are a benefit to any company,” notes Norman Clarke, founder of Clarke & Company Benefits LLC. He points out that absenteeism and its subsequent loss of productivity, as well as health insurance costs are just two factors that can hit an organization hard in the bottom line.

That’s why it makes sense to implement a corporate wellness program, says Clarke, to educate employees and encourage healthy habits.

But Clarke cautions, it’s not enough to just talk about a program, in order to reap the maximum benefits, it pays to hire an expert.

“At Clarke & Company Benefits, wellness is not just a buzzword.

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We hired a professional who holds a Masters degree in public health,” Clarke says. Clarke’s wellness coordinator acts as a client company’s health manager and uses a team approach to implement various programs to get the staff on the right track.

Clarke understands that many businesses which cut their benefits packages during the recession may be reluctant to add to their overhead now. However, Clarke explains that under the new healthcare bill some businesses -- especially those with fewer than 100 employees -- may even qualify for government grants to help with program costs.

Clarke also points out that his company offers wellness educational classes, a service that often comes with a hefty price tag if purchased from an insurance carrier or wellness company. “We’ve devel-

Columbia Regional Business Report | Book of Experts 2010 | Special Advertising Supplement

oped a ‘Lunch and Learn’ series that addresses stress management, heart disease, cholesterol, what to ask your doctor, and money-saving tips for drugs. Our staff goes out to our clients and provides this service at no charge.”

For business owners still on the fence, Clarke urges, “A wellness program can have impact over many areas of your business, benefit costs, comp costs, and productivity,” and he adds, “By adding challenges and incentives, it can even be fun for employees.”

AT A G L A N C E Phone:

(803) 253-6997 Web site: www.clarkebenefits.com

Statewide Coverage Midlands

hen two key Noisette Co. officials resigned recently, they took with them a $9,000-per-month contract for managing a neighborhood that the city of North Charleston is developing.

Art Titus and Elias Deeb oversaw the day-

Key staff members have left and a foreclosure lawsuit is advancing. The company has closed six property sales and continues to attract tenants.

to-day operations of the city’s Oak Terrace Preserve development in Park Circle when they worked for the Noisette Co. as chief

operating officer and project manager, respectively.

Now the two are doing the same work for the city, but through a new company that Deeb owns called Cedrus LLC. Mayor Keith Summey said the city of North Charleston moved the contract because See NOISETTE, Page 10

takes CARTA FDIC closer look

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Nexsen Pruet’s economic development prowess well-known

A burning issue

Builders seek law to stop fire sprinkler requirement for new home construction.

Page 14

rolls up record numbers at S.C. banks With a slight increase in ridership from the previous year, the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority has its green-and-tan buses riding in the black.

Do wellness program work?

Companies that make an investment in wellness can increase productivity and save on costs. Page 15

INSIDE: Up-and-down fuel costs, business partnerships help transit authority grow. Page 8

Well Workplace Awards

An awards ceremony recognized 13 companies dedicated to health and wellness. Page 18

At Work

The College of Charleston’s new finance chairwoman advises Federal Reserve and college students with conclusions grounded in Photo/Leslie Halpern research. Page 41

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smiller@scbiznews.com

See FDIC, Page 14

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INSIDE Upfront .............................2

Economics Column .........422

In Focus:

People in the News .........433

Health & Wellness.........15

Business Digest ..............444

List: Hospitals ...............35

Leads .............................455

List: Caterers ................37

Calendar .........................466

At Work ..........................41

Viewpoint........................477

See our special section honoring this year’s winners. Page 19

By Mike Fitts

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

hen Boeing came to South Carolina to make a development deal, the company hired Nexsen Pruet.

That’s the kind of major project that can build the reputation of a firm’s economic development practice; but Nexsen Pruet

already was among the small group of firms that companies turn to when they consider new investments in South Carolina.

Those firms are concentrated in Columbia

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mfitts@scbiznews.com

Law firm was called upon by Boeing to help negotiate its deal in South Carolina.

ST RM

Industrialists discuss wind turbine testing facility with potential customers.

Page 6

Banking on recovery

First National is in the midst of a “transitional year,” CEO says.

Page 12

Tucked away in rural Chester County is a new research center that has

In Focus: Law

S.C. Bar conference center arising in the Vista.

Page 13

because much of the business involves dealing with state incentives and regulators, said Burnie Maybank, one of two firm members who head the economic development practice at Nexsen Pruet.

Most, if not all, companies expanding in South Carolina or looking to relocate here See NEXSEN PRUET, Page 15

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INSIDE THE EYE OF THE Rate increase

Wind energy

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By Scott Miller

A

fter bank examinations in the fourth quarter, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. has become more involved in South Carolina, a state that has not yet had a bank fail during the recession.

EXECUTIVE Bank regulators have SUMMARY told several financial institutions across the Though the state state to improve their hasn’t had a bank capital positions and failure during the strengthen other mea- recession, the FDIC sures of stability. is taking a closer Greenville-based look at several Palmetto Bancshares institutions.

Inc. said this month in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission that it expects to receive a written agreement from the FDIC to improve its capital position. The holding company for Palmetto Bank lost $40 million last year and is no longer considered “wellcapitalized” by federal regulators.

Easley-based CommunitySouth Financial Corp. faces a more pressing situation.

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one goal: Make homes and businesses safer in the face of potential disasters. To achieve this, the center is bringing the storm inside.

proposal puts heat on SCE&G

By Mike Fitts

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hey have arrived by the hundreds: Letters from customers objecting to the rate increase of more than 9% sought

by S.C. Electric & Gas Co. An outpouring of opinion unlike anything in the state’s recent history EXECUTIVE has put the utility on the SUMMARY defensive.

Customers are “Please reconsider this objecting to an increase! The people in my electricity rate area are counting on you to increase of more stop this highway robbery!” than 9% in the wrote Sharon Azecusky of middle of the Chappells to the state’s regstate’s deep ulatory body, the S.C. Pubrecession. lic Service Commission.

Some of the letters — there have been more than 300 — seem part of an organized campaign, but others clearly were penned at a kitchen table purely out of frustration. An overwhelming theme in the complaints is timing of the electricity rate increase amid the recession.

“I am 81 years of age and a retired Baptist minister. As you know, we have not had a cost-of-living in Social Security benefits in two years. What savings we had for retirement

INSIDE: Full story, Page 8

To subscribe to the Columbia Regional Business Report, call (843) 849-3116

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See SCE&G, Page 10

INSIDE Upfront ............................. 2 In Focus: Law: Practice Groups ............ 13 List: Law Firms ............. 16 List: Title/Abstract Cos .. 18 At Work .......................... 19

mfitts@scbiznews.com

Economics Column ......... 20 People in the News ......... 21 Business Digest .............. 21 Leads ............................. 22 Calendar ......................... 22 Viewpoint........................ 23

At Work

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Buddy Bateman’s dual role in economic development.

Page 19

April 27 - May 10, 2009

South Carolina’s unemployment rate rose to 11.4% in March, equaling the highest rate ever recorded since January 1983. The March figure was five-tenths of a point higher than the revised February rate of 10.9%.

Highlights: 10 counties in Upstate Alliance Rank County in state

Jobless rate

4 Union 12 Cherokee 18 Oconee 19 Abbeville 23 Greenwood 29 Anderson 30 Spartanburg 33 Laurens 37 Pickens 40 Greenville

20% 16.4% 14.3% 14% 13% 11.9% 11.6% 10.9% 9.9% 9.6%

Source: S.C. Employment Security Commission

WINDS OF

Fluor’s mastery of wind power yields European projects

Greenville and South Carolina have a growing cluster of expertise in harnessing the wind.

GE Energy makes electric generators driven by windmills capable of lighting a small town. Fluor Corp. builds wind farms that stand like centurions at sea and pour out enough power for a city.

Three companies in S.C. make bearings for the huge machines. Wind turbines utilize free energy, and emit no harmful carbon pollutants.

The American Wind Energy Association estimates U.S. wind power capacity will grow 20%, or 5,000 megawatts, this year alone.

Demand for this new-technology hardware will preserve jobs, or even increase employment in the Upstate.

by James T. Hammond jhammond@scbiznews.com

CHANGE

to future growth

by James T. Hammond jhammond@scbiznews.com

I Spotlight Ben Stevens: a family lawyer turns Apple guru PAGE 19

n the next 20 years, worldwide electricity demand is expected to double, and the world’s largest gas turbine plant, operated by General Electric on Garlington Road in Greenville, is retooling itself to meet a diverse set of global needs, including wind power generators.

Already one of every two wind turbines in the United States today is made by GE. Last year, GE Energy built 604 of the 60-ton wind turbine machine heads in Greenville. (The blades are made elsewhere.) see GE, page 16

luor Corp. saw the potential of wind power early in the technology’s development, and set out to become a major player for renewable sources of energy.

“We saw the potential in this technology six or seven years ago,” said David Eppinger, vice president in the power division at Fluor. “We believed it would yield projects of the size and complexity that Fluor is known to execute very well.”

Today, the engineering and conEppinger struction company that employs more than 2,500 professionals in Greenville is the prime contractor for the world’s largest wind turbine project under construction – the Greater Gabbard Offshore Farm near Britain’s Suffolk coast.

The giant turbines will occupy a hostile, corrosive environment of saltwater, waves and storms, while resting on pylons in water as deep as 100 feet.

Despite those challenges, the service life of each of the high-tech windmills is expected to be 20-25 years.

The $2 billion-plus, 500-megawatt complex is expected to be 20 miles or more from shore, minimizing visual and noise objections from neighbors. The 140 windmills will stand on 260-foottall towers and have three-bladed rotors that are more than 300 feet in diameter.

Siemens Wind Power A/S will build turbines for the British project. Each one will pump out 3.6 megawatts of see PROJECTS, page 13

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Winter 2009

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GE Energy expects demand to grow for generators built in Greenville factory Wind-powered turbines critical

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S.C. March jobless rate highest since ’83

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In Focus: Health & Wellness

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

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www.columbiabusinessreport.com

Leading Off .................2 In Focus: Energy ......................11 list: lEEd Accredited Professionals ..........15 list: largest utility Providers .................18

At Work ....................17 Real Estate ...............20 People in the News ...21 Calendar ...................21 Leads .......................21 News Briefs ..............22 Viewpoint..................23

BuildErs, BAnks join city to Add AffordABlE homEs PAGE 6

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PA I D COLUMBIA SC PERMIT # 380

By Ashley Fletcher Frampton

Lowcountry Housing Trust misses out on a second round of funding to help purchase and restore distressed housing for lowincome residents. Page 6

April 5 - 18, 2010

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389 Johnnie Dodds Blvd Suite 200 Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

Puzzle pieces continue shifting at Noisette

Stabilization cash goes to other communities

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Statewide

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