Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Millard Refrigerated Services locating new facility in North Charleston


Millard Refrigerated Services today announced plans to develop and operate a new cold storage distribution facility in North Charleston. The $42 million investment is expected to generate 87 new jobs.

“The team at Millard is excited about the business opportunities with our new operation in Charleston County. The facility will give us access to the world-class port in Charleston and provide an efficient hub for our customers along the East Coast and throughout the Southeast. We look forward to getting our new facility up and running, and appreciate the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said Lance Larsen, president and CEO of Millard Refrigerated Services.

Millard Refrigerated Services will construct a state-of-the-art cold storage facility in the Palmetto Commerce Park, located at 7748 Palmetto Commerce Parkway, North Charleston. The company will use the facility to freeze and store poultry, pork and beef products that will be exported to foreign markets.

“We celebrate Millard Refrigerated Services decision to put down roots in South Carolina with a $42 million investment that will create 87 new jobs in North Charleston. We are working hard every day to attract investments like this one from companies across the nation and around the globe. We appreciate Millard’s decision to join the Palmetto State’s business community,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.

Millard Refrigerated Services expects to begin work on the building in the spring of 2013, and start operations by 2014.

“Distribution and logistics companies are increasingly coming to understand that South Carolina is just right for their operations. Being centrally located between Miami and New York City, having solid infrastructure and one of the busiest ports on the East Coast makes the Palmetto State ideal for reaching customers and markets,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.

“Our heartiest of congratulations go out today to Millard Refrigerated Services,” said Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor. “Millard fills a void in our region’s intermodal transportation offerings, and their capabilities will help our efforts to recruit many other industry sectors. We believe that our world-class port, excellent workforce, and pro-business environment will ensure that their new venture will be a highly successful and profitable one. We think the future here is very bright for both the company and our citizens.”

“Millard Refrigerated Services is a welcomed addition to the growing list of world-class businesses to locate within the City of North Charleston along Palmetto Commerce Parkway,” said North Charleston Mayor Keith Summery. “It is our commitment to Millard to remain a business friendly community and a location for all of our businesses to flourish.”

“As one of the nation’s top refrigeration and logistics services providers, Millard will be a tremendous asset to the Charleston region,” said Wayne Hall, Charleston Regional Development Alliance Board chairman. “The Port of Charleston and our business friendly climate are critical factors in Millard’s decision to locate here, and we’re glad they have.”

Last year, South Carolina’s exports jumped more than 21 percent to $24.6 billion in goods sold to 198 countries around the world.

“The port community welcomes Millard to the area, as their presence will mean increased activity through the Port of Charleston’s container facilities,” said Jim Newsome, president and CEO of the South Carolina Ports Authority. “Exports of refrigerated cargo have continued to rise, and these heavy exports must find their way to ports with deep-water capabilities, like Charleston. We congratulate Secretary Hitt and Commerce’s partners for bringing Millard to South Carolina.”

The company will begin hiring for the new positions in mid-2013. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should visit the careers section of Millard website (www.millardref.com).

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved a set aside grant of $3.75 million.

About Millard Refrigerated Services
Millard Refrigerated Services was founded in 1963, in Omaha, NE. The company remains family owned and operated. Millard currently serves all of North America through the operation of 36 regional facilities, and is the second-largest refrigerated warehouse and distribution company in the United States. In addition to cold storage warehousing and transportation, Millard provides clients with a wide variety of other value-added services including High Pressure Pasteurization (HPP), logistics support and import/export assistance. To learn more about Millard’s full line of value added services, please visit www.millardref.com or call 402-896-6600.

Monday, December 17, 2012

Mayor Summey releases statement on Rep. Scott's selection to US Senate

North Charleston 4th of July Festival - Congressman Tim Scott and Mayor Keith Summey

North Charleston Mayor R. Keith Summey released the following statement today, December 17, 2012, regarding Representative Tim Scott’s selection to serve South Carolina in the United State Senate.

From Mayor Summey:
“Today is a proud day for the City of North Charleston. On behalf of our City, I offer heartfelt congratulations to Representative Tim Scott as Governor Nikki Haley’s selection to replace Senator Jim DeMint in the United States Senate. 
There are few stories as inspiring as Tim Scott’s. He grew up here in North Charleston in a single-parent household of humble means, but through hard work and determination, he became a successful businessman and is now set to serve as North Charleston’s first United States Senator. 
I have had the pleasure of working with Representative Scott for many, many years, and have learned that at his core, it is the community and his fellow South Carolinians that he works for every day. We can all be assured that North Charleston and our great state will continue to be well represented in Washington.”

North Charleston sets path for revitalization of former Naval Hospital and Shipwatch Square



The City of North Charleston and Chicora Gardens Holding LLC are set to enter into a purchase agreement, which will transfer approximately 40 acres from the City for $9.2 million.  In October of this year, the City of North Charleston was the high bidder in an online auction conducted by the General Services Administration (GSA) for the former Naval Hospital located at 3600 Rivers Avenue.  After negotiations with GSA, the City purchased the 10-story, 368,000 square foot hospital on 23 acres for $2 million.

The developer will begin a due diligence period and will present a master plan for a Planned Development District to the City of North Charleston’s Planning and Zoning Department.

The project is expected to be a collaborative effort along with private businesses to utilize the best talents, innovation, and ideas to create a destination to bring together the community.  The area’s master plan is focused on attracting commerce and residents to the area with a plan for a sustainable interactive environment. 

An initial plan is to develop a mixed use project that will include a grocery store, office building, bank, restaurants, medical and dental services, pharmacy, library, and a continuing care retirement community with senior apartments, assisted living, and hospice services.  The project will also contain extensive public parks and gardens.
Chicora Gardens Holdings LLC has engaged Davis and Floyd for engineering work to include the initial site plan, structural analysis, and for the parks and gardens landscape architecture and design. Chicora Gardens is represented by Rick Brownyard of Mt Pleasant, SC.

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Applications Sought for National Outdoor Sculpture Competition & Exhibition

Spring Azure by Phil Hathcock (2012/13 Best of Show)

Sculpture artists from across the nation are invited to participate in the eighth annual National Outdoor Sculpture Competition & Exhibition. Up to 15 sculptures will be juried into the exhibit and compete for cash prizes totaling up to $14,750. The exhibition is presented as a component of the annual North Charleston Arts Festival, to be held May 3-11, 2013. Applications may be downloaded from the Applications page at NorthCharlestonArtsFest.com. Deadline for submissions is Friday, March 1, 2013.

Organized and presented by the City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department, this 11 month exhibition offers established and emerging artists the opportunity to display their thought provoking, extraordinary sculptures throughout the picturesque North Charleston Riverfront Park. Set on the banks of the Cooper River, Riverfront Park features ten acres of walking paths, a boardwalk and fountain, an expansive lawn with performance pavilion, children's play areas, and picnic sites. The historic site is centered in the Noisette District, the largest urban redevelopment project ever undertaken in the United States.

Janet Kagan, a Founding Principal of the Public Art Collaborative, will jury this year’s exhibit. Kagan has more than three decades of experience in strategic planning with established and emergent art programs, and management of projects representing both artists and agencies. She has held positions in city government; local and statewide non-profit organizations; international architectural and interpretive design firms; and on boards and committees of national and regional arts organizations. She leads and directs design teams, and serves as liaison among artists, clients, public agencies, and elected officials. Since 2010, Kagan and her colleagues have also been creating and directing innovative alliances between nationally recognized artists and small manufacturers in rural counties to foster economic revitalization. She is currently Associate Editor of the International Journal of the Arts In Society, participates on artist selection panels and juries, and teaches about public art to artists and communities. She holds an MA in Philosophy of Art and an MBA.

The National Outdoor Sculpture Competition & Exhibition will be on display May 1, 2013, through March 23, 2014, at North Charleston Riverfront Park, located at 1001 Everglades Avenue in North Charleston. An opening reception and announcement of awards will be held at the Charleston Area Convention Center on Friday, May 3, 2013. For more information about the North Charleston Arts Festival, the National Outdoor Sculpture Competition & Exhibition, or other exhibition opportunities, contact the City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department at (843) 740-5854, email culturalarts@northcharleston.org, or visit NorthCharlestonArtsFest.com.

Thursday, December 6, 2012

NCO Financial Systems Inc. expanding operations in North Charleston

Company expects to create 75 new jobs

NCO Financial Systems Inc., a leading global provider of best-in-class business process outsourcing (BPO) solutions, today announced that it will expand its current operations in Charleston County due to new business development. In conjunction with the expansion, the company will be seeking to fill 75 new positions.

“It’s exciting to have the opportunity to expand our call center facility in Charleston County. South Carolina has provided us with an excellent environment in which to do business, and provided us with exceptional workforce talent. We look forward to growing here, and we appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said Jay King, Co-Head ARM Operations, of NCO Financial Systems.

NCO Financial Systems will expand its call center operation, located at 4275 Bridge View Drive, in North Charleston. The center handles accounts receivable services for utilities and telecom revenue clients and currently employs more than 600 people. The expansion is scheduled to be completed in January 2013. The new positions are primarily for call center representatives.

“When existing businesses in South Carolina choose to expand, it’s a good indication our economic development efforts are on the right track. We celebrate NCO Financial Systems’ decision to grow in North Charleston and create 75 new jobs,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.

NCO operates a global network of more than 100 operations centers running on a centralized data platform with the flexibility to respond to the changing marketplace, and to tailor operations to meet client specifications. NCO’s services include accounts receivable management, revenue cycle management and order-to-cash BPO services. NCO provides services across multiple vertical markets through a combination of voice, chat, email, voice automation, back-office, social media and self-help portals.

“NCO Financial Systems is a world-class company and this expansion in Charleston County is great news. Every one of these jobs will have impact in North Charleston. Announcements like this one show companies continue to see the Palmetto State as the right place to do business,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.

“Our congratulations go out to NCO Financial Services on their wonderful expansion,” said Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor. “NCO Financial Services for many years has provided high-quality customer care employment to our citizens, and many a new career has been launched within their doors. Their standards of excellence and dedication to their employees have become their hallmark over the years, and we at Charleston County are pleased to be their long-term partner in success.”

“We are grateful for NCO Financial Services expanding its employment base, providing additional job opportunities for the citizens of North Charleston and the Greater Charleston Region,” said North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey. “We proudly recognize NCO Financial Services as being a key component in North Charleston’s diverse, ever-growing business community.”

The company will begin hiring for the new positions immediately. NCO is an equal opportunity employer. For more information, visit NCO's website, www.ncogroup.com, or contact the center’s recruitment line at 843-529-4701.

About EGS

Expert Global Solutions Inc. (EGS) is the holding company for APAC Customer Services Inc. and NCO Financial Systems Inc. EGS is a fully scaled and global partner serving all aspects of the CRM and ARM customer lifecycle, offering clients the unique complement of scale and a customized service delivery platform. EGS is an equal opportunity employer. For more information, visit EGS’s website: www.egscorp.com.

About NCO
NCO is a leading global provider of business process outsourcing services, including accounts receivable management, revenue cycle management and order to cash BPO services. NCO provides services across multiple vertical markets through a combination of voice, chat, email, voice automation, back-office, social media and self-help portals. NCO provides services through over 120 offices throughout North America, Latin America, Asia, Europe and Australia. NCO is an equal opportunity employer. For more information, visit NCO’s website at www.ncogroup.com.

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

North Charleston City Council approves rail settlement with State of South Carolina - an open letter from Mayor Summey

Citizens of North Charleston,

I am pleased to announce a resolution to the rail dispute that has consumed our community for the past several years.  The fight was at times bitter; however, the strong will of this community has led the state to a compromise that will ensure equitable treatment of our citizens.  We could not have reached this point without you.

Grass roots efforts led to thousands of citizens rallying together in town hall meetings, letters written to Columbia demanding a reasonable solution, and an equal amount of phone calls to public officials expressing concerns.  We fought in every forum, from the court of public opinion to courts of law.

We now have a great opportunity to resolve many of the lingering surface transportation issues which have plagued the greater North Charleston region for many, many years.  I can assure you that I have been relentless in achieving the best possible outcome for the community.

As with any settlement, compromises were required from both sides.  In the settlement, South Carolina Public Railways will establish an intermodal facility on a portion of the property the City gave to Clemson University. The facility will service both Class I railroads and will be operated by South Carolina Public Railways.  

We were able to stop approximately half, but not all, of the rail from being placed on land at the former Navy Base.  We did have to yield and allow northern rail access.  Keep in mind that rail off the base is subject to federal jurisdiction and was never something the City could control.  I believe that rail line reduction on the former Navy Base, along with other concessions made by the South Carolina Department of Commerce, will allow for appropriate mitigation for ill effects of increased rail traffic through our community.

First and foremost, a study will be commissioned to find a solution to many of our area’s surface transportation problems and lessen port traffic impacts on our community.  Anyone driving along our major thoroughfares has at some point been stuck in gridlock traffic or stopped by a train, unfortunately far too often.  This fight has been over rail, but I believe that the city has really objected to the human impact of rail more than to rail itself.

I have fought for a compromise designed to lessen the impact of container movement on our daily lives as much as possible.  If containers can exit our community by rail with less impact than exiting by truck, I believe there will be an improvement to our quality of life.  The study will identify mitigation (overpasses, quiet zones, routing, and sound barriers), determine exactly how we can climb out of our transportation debacle, and finally, paint a true picture of “rail done right.”

As additional parts of the mitigation, the community will receive $8 million.  The City will also receive 104 acres on the former Navy Base for restoration, which includes all of the former officer’s housing area adjacent to our park.  Public Railways has also agreed to assume $6.5 million of bonds that were issued for the construction of Riverfront Park.

To avoid future differences of opinion as to whether these promises to the City and its citizens are binding, this settlement will come as a court order, not a Memorandum of Understanding.  With the involvement of Governor Nikki Haley, Senator and Senate Finance Chairman Hugh Leatherman of Florence, Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt and others, this community has been given every possible assurance that Columbia will not turn its back on our community.

When contemplating this settlement, I challenge you to consider the opportunity we have to improve our community.  Also consider the consequences the residents of the City would face absent an agreement.  The result would have been disastrous, even if the City won every court battle and stopped the rail yard. 

We were faced with two options for handling containers from the Post-Panamax cargo ships that will service the new port facility.  One option allowed all containers from the new port to travel through our community by truck, one at a time.  I-26 is already failing in terms of its ability to handle current traffic.  Forcing the exponential increase of containers onto local roads by truck would cause North Charleston roadways to resemble a Los Angeles-like parking lot for hours each day.

The other option was to allow the State to move forward with constructing an intermodal facility to carry the containers away from our community on rail, hundreds of containers at a time.  This plan has obvious appeal, provided that rail routes can be developed in a way that would work around the community instead of rolling over it.

The latter option was chosen.  As a result, we are receiving a number of evenhanded concessions for the improvement of our community and we now have a seat at the table to make real, lasting changes to our region’s transportation system.

I hope you, the citizens of North Charleston, can stand with me.  It is unfortunate that we have had to adapt from our original vision for the former Navy Base.  Unfortunately, times have changed, the economy has changed, and ownership of the majority of the Base has changed.  What has not changed is my commitment to North Charleston.

I believe that North Charleston will emerge as a better community, and that all of the citizens of the State of South Carolina will realize that it was this community that made the tough decisions for their economic growth.  North Charleston is and will always be a great place to live, work, and play, no matter the obstacles we face.

Sincerely,

R. Keith Summey
Mayor


1 – Rail Settlement Agreement NOT SIGNED
2 – Rail Settlement - Press Release from the SC Department of Commerce
3 – Rail Settlement - open letter from Mayor Summey
4 – Rail Settlement - Press Briefing
5 – Rail Settlement - map with key

Watch the December 4, 2012 Special City Council Meeting

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

North Charleston Christmas Festival and Parade

North Charleston Christmas Festival and Parade


Saturday, December 1 from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm around Park Circle with the Christmas Parade beginning at 6:00 pm. The Christmas Festival includes a Holiday Market with children’s activities, craft vendors, food vendors, and live musical performances on three stages. The Christmas Parade begins at the corner of Montague and Mixson Avenues, proceeds down Montague, around Park Circle, and returns to Mixson Avenue.

Immediately following the Christmas Parade, Mayor R. Keith Summey and Santa Claus will light the City’s Christmas tree located outside the front entrance of the Felix C. Davis Community Center.

Christmas Festival Schedule
3:00 pm
Police will close traffic circle to vehicular traffic
4:00 - 5:30 pm
Children activities (jump castles, petting zoo, carriage rides)
4:00 - 6:00 pm
Performances prior to parade
6:00 - 7:00 pm
Parade / Mayor’s Tree Lighting
7:00 - 9:00 pm
Performances on all stages
9:00 pm
Road opens for traffic


Performers at Christmas Festival 
Happy Feet Dancers
Leonard School of Music Jazz Band
Chilenia Jamison aka Nina Ross
Caley Crew - Soloist
Lowcountry Voices Ensemble
Ashley Gospel Singers
Michael Brown & F.O.C.U.S.

Christmas lights and displays shine at Park Circle and on the eight exterior islands nightly from the beginning of December until New Years Day.


Wednesday, November 14, 2012

South Carolina Small Business-Lender Match Maker Event

The South Carolina Dept. of Commerce, in partnership with area Chambers of Commerce and other ally groups, is facilitating a Lender Matchmaker Event in North Charleston on Thursday, November 29th. 

The purpose of the event is to give small businesses access to financing resources. The morning session will include area lenders talking about what they are looking for, what makes a good quality application, pitfalls, etc. Followed by a Peer to Peer session in which companies that have successfully obtained financing explain how they did it, and the key ingredients behind their success. Lunch will be followed by a speed-dating session, where potential borrowers sign up for meetings with multiple lenders and funding resources to advance their financing options.

Click Here To Register

If you have any questions, please feel free to call or email me, or Greg Davis, gdavis@sccommerce.com, 803-737-0601.

Monday, November 5, 2012

Accreditation Assessment Team Invites Public Comment

A team of assessors from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) will arrive November 4th, 2012, to examine all aspects of the North Charleston Police Department’s policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services.

Verification by the team that the North Charleston Police Department meets the Commission’s state-of-the-art standards is part of a voluntary process to gain accreditation. Chief Zumalt describes the Commission as, “a highly-prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence.” Zumalt adds that in order to gain accredited status, the department had to comply with 480 standards that were recognized as the top police practices in the nation.

Captain Joyce Smith, the Accreditation Manager for the North Charleston Police Department, said the assessment team is comprised of law enforcement practitioners from similarly sized, but out of state agencies. The assessors will review written materials, interview individuals and officers, and visit sites where compliance can be witnessed. The assessors are:

Team Leader: Deputy Chief Michael Webb (Abington Township Police Department) - Pennsylvania
Team Member: Laura Saunders (Burlington Police Department) – North Carolina

Once the Commission’s assessors complete their review of the agency, they report back to the full Commission, which will then decide if the agency is to receive accredited status. Accreditation is for three years, during which time the agency must submit annual reports attesting continued compliance with those standards under which they were initially accredited.

As part of the on-site assessment, the public and agency employees are invited to offer comments on the department’s services and performance at a Public Information Session on Monday, November 5th, 2012, at 6:00 PM. The session will be held in the Montague Room, 2nd Floor at North Charleston City Hall, located at 2500 City Hall Lane, North Charleston, SC.

If for some reason an individual cannot speak at the Public Information Session, but would like to provide comments to the assessment team, he/she may do so by telephone. The public may call (843) 740-2819 on Monday, November 5th, between the hours of 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM.

Telephone comments, as well as those made at the Public Information Session, are limited to ten minutes and must address the department’s ability to comply with the CALEA standards. A copy of the standards is available at the North Charleston Police Department.

Anyone wishing to submit written comments about the North Charleston Police Department’s ability to comply with the standards of accreditation may send them to:

CALEA
13575 Heathcote Blvd., Suite 320
Gainesville, VA 20155

Anyone requesting standards or additional information may contact the Police Department’s Accreditation Manager, Captain Joyce Smith, at 740-2838.

Monday, October 29, 2012

Veterans Day in North Charleston, a Tribute to our Veterans

A veteran stands to be recognized for his service

The City of North Charleston will host its annual Veterans Day tribute on Monday, November 12, 2012 from 10:30 am – 1:00 pm at Park Circle. We ask veterans and the public to join Mayor R. Keith Summey and City Council in this special ceremony. Last year, over 500 veterans in attendance were honored.

The Department of Defense and the Veterans Day National Committee has once again selected North Charleston as a Regional Site for Veterans Day 2012. North Charleston is the only regional site in the State of South Carolina and has been selected for 3 consecutive years.

All veterans in attendance will be recognized and will receive a specially designed commemorative coin. To receive a coin, Veterans are urged to RSVP no later than October 25 to (843) 740-5801, (843) 745-1028 or via email at cdambaugh@northcharleston.org.

Lieutenant Colonel Vernon F. Lightner will be the event’s keynote speaker. A native of Great Falls, South Carolina, Lt. Col. Lightner graduated Livingstone College in 1991 and subsequently received a commission in the US Army Military Police Corps. He has served in a variety of leadership positions from platoon leader to battalion commander, most recently serving as the Director of Emergency Services at Fort Bliss, Texas.

B14-B15 CENTER MP NCO Induction 110217-A-0290B-016
Lt. Col. Lightner stands at attention during ceremony - Flickr user Fort Bliss Garrison PAO

Lt. Col. Lightner served in several operational deployments, including Operation Intrinsic Action in Kuwait, Operation Restore Hope in Somalia, and two tours in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. He currently serves in the Office of the Chief of Staff of the Army, as the Regional Director, Southeastern Region, for the Soldier for Life Office.

More Photos of Lt. Col. Lightner

Prior to the ceremony, from 9:30 am – 10:30 am, a story swap will be held in the Felix Davis Community Center. Veterans will have an open opportunity to share memories and stories about their service with fellow veterans. The story swap is open to the public. Veterans wishing to speak should RSVP to (843) 740-5850.

Outback Steakhouse is once again sponsoring lunch for all of the event’s attendees. Outback has sponsored the event for four consecutive years.

From past Veterans Day events

Photos: Veterans Day 2011


Photos: Veterans Day 2010


Video: Medal of Honor recipient Major General Livingston on Veterans Day


Video: 10 year old Tre’ Williams on what it means to be a veteran


Video: Major Joe Lysaght on the history of the Pledge of Allegiance

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Backporch Storytellers set the scene for Halloween at North Charleston Ghost Walk


Get into the Halloween spirit with spooky tales and creepy legends appropriate for all ages at the North Charleston Ghost Walk on Saturday, October 27. The Olde Village section of East Montague Avenue in North Charleston will host up to eight storytelling stations featuring lively presentations of local folklore and traditional ghost stories by the talented members of the Backporch Storytellers of Charleston.

This exclusive one night only event will take place from 6:00-8:00pm. Groups will begin their haunted adventure at The Meeting Place, located at 1077 East Montague Avenue. Guests may visit any number of storytelling stations, with the full tour lasting approximately one and a half hours. Stations are located both indoors and outside. Participants are encouraged to add to the Halloween fun by attending in costume.

Tickets are available for purchase on the night of the event and cost $4 for adults and $1 for children 12 and under. A special rate of $6 is being offered for groups consisting of one adult and three children. All proceeds from ticket sales will go towards the City’s Christmas Charity benefiting needy families. Homemade treats and hot chocolate will be available for purchase.

About the Backporch Storytellers
The Backporch Storytellers is a non-profit organization created in 1987 to serve as a storytelling support group for adult storytellers and listeners and a resource for people interested in oral literature. The mission of the group is to preserve and perpetuate the ancient art of Storytelling and to preserve the multi-cultural stories of the Old South, which includes Sea Island and Gullah tales and stories. Several members are listed on the Artist in Residence in Education roster for the South Carolina Arts Commission. For more information, visit backporchstorytellers.com.

The North Charleston Ghost Walk is sponsored by the City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department. For more details about the event, or for information about other programs and services offered by the department, visit http://bit.ly/culturalarts, call 843-740-5854 or email culturalarts@northcharleston.org.

Monday, October 22, 2012

North Charleston goes pink for breast cancer awareness

Tailgate for the Cure

From buildings to employees, the City of North Charleston is going pink this week to raise breast cancer awareness; October 22-29, 2012.

Throughout the week, city facilities will be decorated pink, city employees will wear pink attire, and the City’s pink Fire Truck can be seen around town. Even City Hall has gone pink. At night, the exterior of City Hall is lit in bright pink, along with our fire stations, the Power House on the former Navy Base, and the Greater Charleston Naval Base Memorial at Riverfront Park.

North Charleston Mayor R. Keith Summey said, “This is an effort put forth by our employees to show our support for women, men, and families that are battling the ill effects of breast cancer. It’s encouraging to see the enthusiasm of so many North Charleston employees in raising awareness.”

All residents and businesses are encouraged to participate.





Thursday, October 11, 2012

Shimano expanding its North Charleston facility in Palmetto Commerce Park


Shimano American Corporation, a maker of fishing tackle and bicycle components, today announced the expansion of its distribution center in North Charleston. The expansion will double the company’s original investment and increase employment at the facility by 50 percent. The company broke ground on the new construction today.

“With this investment, it’s much more than just doubling the size at our South Carolina facility – we'll also be prepared for both current and future distribution needs for all our brands,” said Dave Pfeiffer, president of Shimano American Corp. “Taking our original investment in 2003 in a 25,000-square-foot distribution center in North Charleston’s Benchmark Industrial Park to another level again, this a needed positive step in order to increase services to our business partners up and down the East Coast, and throughout the Midwest and Southern states. We look forward to our South Carolina facility playing a larger role in Shimano’s operations in the U.S., and we appreciate the cooperation we’ve received from local, regional and state agencies in our expansion plans.”

The new construction adds nearly 99,000-square-feet to the current 102,000-square-foot facility at 9550 Palmetto Commerce Parkway, built by Shimano in 2006. The addition will be ready in August 2013.



“It’s always exciting to see one of our existing businesses increase its footprint in South Carolina. We celebrate Shimano’s decision to expand its North Charleston facility with an additional investment and the creation of new jobs. We work hard every day to strengthen our business-friendly climate so we will continue to see South Carolina companies expand and create more jobs,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.

Along with the added capacity, the expanded facility “will allow Shimano to improve our material handling automation processes, and will also provide us with nearly 3,000-square-feet of needed office space,” said Shimano’s senior manager of operations Allen Johnston. He notes that along with Shimano bicycle components and fishing tackle, the company distributes its G.Loomis fishing rods and PowerPro fishing line from the North Charleston facility. When the improvements are complete, Shimano will add the distribution of its Pearl Izumi technical cycling and running products, and also Jackall brand fishing lures, to the facility.

“When companies need to get products to customers on the East Coast or throughout the Southeast, South Carolina offers the best options for reaching those markets. Shimano’s decision to expand its Charleston County facility provides another example of that, and we look forward to the company’s continued growth here,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.

“Our congratulations go out today to the entire Shimano team on the momentous occasion of their expansion,” said Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor. “An expansion is the ultimate corporate testimonial that a community can receive, and we are happy to see that the Port of Charleston, the Charleston area workforce, and our business climate have proven to be fertile soil for the company’s success. We at Charleston County have thoroughly enjoyed our relationship, and we will remain steadfast partners to Shimano in the years to come.”

“In 2003, North Charleston welcomed Shimano to our great city, and since that time we have been fortunate to see the company’s growth within our community. Today, we congratulate Shimano on its second expansion at Palmetto Commerce Park,” said North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey. “It is our commitment to maintain a local environment that is friendly to commerce and accommodating to the needs of Shimano and all of our North Charleston businesses.”

Shimano American Corporation is the U.S. subsidiary of Osaka, Japan-based Shimano, Inc., a worldwide leader in the manufacturing of fishing tackle and bicycle components. Along with its Irvine, Calif. sales, service and distribution operations and its Pearl Izumi USA headquarters in Louisville, Colo., Shimano manufactures its PowerPro braided fishing line in Grand Junction, Colo., and its G.Loomis fishing rods in Woodland, Wash. Beginning in January 2013, it will also handle the sales, marketing and distribution of Jackall Lures in the U.S. and Canada. For more information, please visit www.shimano.com.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Watch the October 11, 2012 City Council Meeting



The Friends of Charleston Center to host spaghetti dinner

Spaghettis
Flickr user HatM
The Friends of Charleston Center will host a Spaghetti Dinner on November 17 at 6:00 pm at Felix C. Davis Community Center to support its mission to assist Charleston County residents battling substance abuse.

The Charleston Center helps the residents of Charleston County live productive lives, free from the impact of alcohol, other drugs and addictive behaviors. Charleston Center promotes active recovery for persons whose lives are affected by substance use and related conditions.

The Advisory Board and “Friends” of the Charleston Center are committed to supporting the work of the staff and volunteers of the Charleston Center through increasing awareness, and establishing Charleston Center as the centerpiece of prevention and recovery from addiction and related conditions in Charleston County.

Over the next 7 months, the Charleston Center Advisory Board will work to raise $70,000 to support 7 specific areas of need at the Charleston Center:

1. Recreation and Entertainment Items
2. Furniture Items
3. Educational Materials
4. Indigent Care Items and Assistance
5. Infant and Child Items
6. Patient Care and Equipment
7. Therapeutic Decor

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

North Charleston seeking “Citizen of the Year” nominations

The North Charleston Citizen Advisory Council is seeking nominations for the 2012 “Citizen of the Year.” Each year, North Charleston citizens are nominated to identify, honor, and reinforce the activities of exceptional citizens whose service or performance positively contributes to the quality of life in North Charleston.

All applications are welcome, and should include a detailed explanation for the nomination along with the nominee’s name, address, and phone number. Also, the individual(s) submitting the application should include their name, address, and phone number as well. Applications must be submitted online or postmarked by Tuesday, November 1, 2012 for consideration.

Nominations may be submitted below or mailed to:

City of North Charleston
Citizens Advisory Council
c/o Executive Department
P.O. Box 190016
North Charleston, SC 29419-9016

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Join the Red Cross for a Tour of Duty experience, win free stuff!


Take a quick break from your workday and join the Red Cross of the Lowcountry for a fun, free hands-on experience of their mission in North Charleston on Friday, October 12 from 8:30am to 5:00pm at the Charleston Area Convention Center.

Experience a Red Cross Shelter, learn Compression-Only CPR, practice your preparedness knowledge and make holiday cards for our troops. Watch the Charleston County Fire Fighters Competition throughout the day.

All for Free! Even the t-shirts!

Attendees have a chance to win 2 round-trip tickets courtesy of Southwest Airlines!

Space is limited, registration closes October 7th. Event is appropriate for ages 16 and up.

To register click here.

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Sponsored Fall decorations on East Montague to benefit needy families


The Olde North Charleston Merchants Association and the City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department are collaborating to decorate the Olde Village section of East Montague Avenue with decorative grapevine wreaths for Fall. Proceeds from wreath sponsorships will benefit the City of North Charleston’s Christmas Charity for needy families.

Schools, community groups, churches, businesses and individuals are invited to participate in this second annual beautification effort. Wreath sponsors may purchase a 24” grapevine wreath with two sided orange ribbon for $25 and personalize it with decorations of their choosing, or sponsors may choose to purchase a pre-decorated wreath for $50. Past participants have the option of redecorating last year’s wreath for $15.

Wreaths with sponsor name will be displayed on light poles lining the Olde Village section of East Montague Avenue throughout October and November. The deadline for wreath purchases is 5:00pm on Monday, September 24, 2012. Wreaths should be decorated and ready to hang by October 1. To sponsor a wreath or for more information contact the City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department at (843) 740-5854 or culturalarts@northcharleston.org.

Shipwatch Square: its history and current redevelopment updates

Update #7 September 20, 2012
An image of the cleared site taken from the former Naval Hospital.


Update #6 August 28, 2102
All of the building on the site have been cleared and grass has begun to grow.

Update #5 April 9, 2012
A Post and Courier article by Robert Behre from a recent interview with North Charleston Mayor R. Keith Summey.



Update #4 March 2, 2012
Demolition continues at Shipwatch Square with only a few buildings remaining.
Update #3 January 12, 2012
Building 2, which was parallel to Meeting Street Road (former home to Woolworth's and Belks) has been demolished, as has the bank at the intersection of McMillan and Rivers Avenue.

Update #2 November 21, 2011
Demolition continues.
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Update #1 November 8, 2011
The demolition of the old Shipwatch Square is ongoing.  The building that formerly housed a Chinese restaurant and the Howard Johnson restaurant has been demolished, as well as the shopping center building parallel to McMillan Avenue.  The contractors are currently demolishing the bank building (former home to Wachovia, and before that South Carolina National Bank) at the corner of McMillan and Rivers Avenues.

The removal of asbestos containing materials from the remaining two shopping center buildings is proceeding.  Afterwards, the final two buildings will be demolished.

Please note that Shipwatch’s last remaining tenant, “Citi Trends,” has relocated to the shopping center on Rivers Avenue at Aviation Avenue.  Auto Sound Specialist (747-0047) remains in business at its current location, as does “Lord of the Harvest” in the former movie theater at the corner of McMillan Avenue and Meeting Street Road.
___________________

November 7, 2011

History of Shipwatch Square

In 1895, long before Pinehaven Shopping Center, the City of Charleston established 600-acre Chicora Park north of the its boundaries along the Inland Trail.  The Trail itself was a vital route of commerce, carrying goods between the sea coast and the Midlands of South Carolina.  Over the next decade, the United States Navy took possession of 1,575 acres along the west bank of the Cooper River, consuming the Park through its expansion.  Eventually, a 20-acre site was developed just outside of the Naval Base gates for the Pinehaven Sanatorium, a health care facility for tuberculosis patients.

In 1958, the Pinehaven Shopping Center was built on the site of the former sanatorium and consisted of 200,000 square feet of retail business. Pinehaven’s landmark structure was a central circle tower that bore the its name and held all of the lighting for the parking lot hidden within the top circle of the tower.
The shopping center opened for business September 17, 1959. Two grocery stores, a national retail clothier, one national five and dime store, one large local retailer, one bank and numerous small businesses made up the complex.  In future years a cinema was added.  The shopping center was very successful for decades and the occupancy of tenants remained high.  As the area continued to develop from the presence of the Naval Base, the center was renamed Shipwatch Square.

Although the shopping center began to decline with the establishment of area indoor shopping malls, a major blow came when the US Navy announced the closing of the Naval Base and Shipyard in North Charleston, displacing 12,000 civilian and 8,000 military employees. This was a large economic setback to the immediate area as many of the workers would use the retail outside of the base to shop and dine. Winn Dixie was the last major tenant, vacating the center in 2005 as part of the chain’s closure of all its grocery stores in South Carolina. The rest of the center maintained a few lower tier establishments, but was generally unoccupied.

In 2002, the City created a new vision for the 3,000 acres south of I-526 and east of I-26 from Cosgrove Avenue to the Cooper River known as the Noisette Community Master Plan. Real estate ventures began to rise as investors bought into the City’s new vision. Shipwatch Square was purchased by new stakeholders who had an ambitious development plan. However, the US economy began to slip in 2008 and the new development did not progress.  The City was patient in encouraging private enterprises, but in the end, redevelopment was not initiated.

Redevelopment begins

The City of North Charleston purchased 16.4 acres of the center in 2010, leaving the corner property for the former developer to negotiate a sale with a drug store.  After the developer’s negotiations fell through, the City acquired the final parcel on the corner of McMillan and Rivers Avenues in 2011.

North Charleston has created a number of conceptual plans for the property and is working with the surrounding businesses and an adjacent church to find the appropriate mix of tenants and financing to make the redevelopment successful. The City intends to create a complete master plan and secure development partners for its implementation.

The City approved a lease with Walgreens and a local developer to become the first tenant in the new center. The drug store chain will lease the property for 3 years and thereafter have the option to purchase the parcel located at the corner of McMillan and Rivers Avenues.  The City is also in negotiations with a bank to locate on site.

The City feels that housing should be major component of the development to attract residents into the immediate area. The North Charleston Housing Authority is investigating building its new offices at Shipwatch Square. In addition, the city has received interest in relocating to the site from Charleston County Library, Clemson University Extension Service, Fetter Health Care Clinics, Charleston County Health Services, the Pinehaven Post Office, and the Small Business Administration.

According to the US Department of Agriculture, the area around Shipwatch Square has been classified as a food desert.  The Mayor and City Council are committed to attracting a full-service grocery as the anchor tenant of the location’s redevelopment.  This effort may also include community or urban gardens, farmers markets and educational activities for the community. The City is currently in discussion with several grocery store chains.

The City of North Charleston remains very optimistic about the success of the redevelopment.  This is a wonderful opportunity to create a new community in the south end of the city and provide the residents a deserving quality place to work, live, play, and shop.

Oak Terrace Preserve residents launch North Charleston's community video series

The City of North Charleston has released two video shorts, which depict residents of the City's Oak Terrace Preserve neighborhood discussing quality of life issues in their community. The videos, entitled "Community", and "Schools" were recorded in August, following a voluntary, unscripted format. The videos, on the City's YouTube Channel, are the first in a series of videos chronicling the progress of revitalization in the neighborhood.

"The videos illustrate a major impact of the City's efforts at attracting young homebuyers to Park Circle," says North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey. "The influx of young families moving to the Park Circle area, and North Charleston, has been impressive. It's a sign that our revitalization strategy is working, even in relatively lean economic times. The number of young, white collar professionals coming to Oak Terrace, and the greater Park Circle area, has been fueled by major employers, as well as up-and-coming entrepreneurs".

Oak Terrace Preserve is a City-owned green residential project, which is privately developed by a team of builders and architects. Homes at the neighborhood are market rate, and combine the latest innovations in sustainable living with neo-traditional neighborhood design.

Community
Oak Terrace Preserve residents comment on their community's recognition as one of the nation's 'coolest, trendiest' neighborhoods, with its unique combination of green living, quality of life, and central location.



Schools
Parents and future parents see family-friendly Oak Terrace Preserve as uniquely positioned for their children's education, as the nationally-ranked Academic Magnet High School and the upcoming arts-infused elementary are within walking distance of the neighborhood.

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Fire Department to host Pancake Breakfast to benefit Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy


Join us at Fire Station 5 for a pancake breakfast with all proceeds benefiting the Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy.

School Resource Officers make impact at summer camps


The 2012 School Resource Officer (SRO) Summer Camp program integrated curriculum and instruction from SROs who interacted daily with children 5 to 12 years old. In total, 480 children were involved in the program. SROs were paramount in the organization and execution of our recreational activities and cultural art projects as well.

In 2012, camp sites had organized instructional time for SROs to address campers of different age groups. Curriculum was tailored to each age group and covered law related topics, such as Shoplifting, Bullying, School Offenses, Internet Safety, Street Safety, Gang Activity, DUI/Drug Safety, and Constitutional Law.

School Resource Officers in our camps provided early detection and prevention of behavioral issues and ensured positive community relations between the Police Department and the community.

SROs participated in the following camps:
Northwoods
Armory Park
Jeanene Batten
Murray Hill
Minor Crosby
Felix Pinckney
Gethsemani
Charleston Farms
Stall High School

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

North Charleston to Host Free Concert by USAF Academy Band’s Falconaires Jazz Ensemble


The City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department is proud to host a free evening concert by the United States Air Force Academy Band’s Falconaires Jazz Ensemble at the Sterett Hall Auditorium on the former Charleston Naval Base on Friday, October 19, at 7:00pm. The concert will feature big band jazz under the leadership of Master Sergeant Jason Crowe.

As one of twelve Air Force jazz ensembles, the Falconaires have brought the great sounds of big band jazz to national audiences for more than 50 years. The 18 professional Airmen-musicians in the “Glenn Miller” style big band follow in a long blue line of talented Air Force Academy bandsmen who are dedicated to serving our nation and representing the young officers in training at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs, CO. The ensemble specializes in the best of past and present by performing traditional and contemporary big band jazz. To this mix, “Falcs” members add their own compositions and fresh orchestrations. The band performs annually for more than 50,000 people at civic and military functions, public concerts, and festivals, including the International Association of Jazz Educators’ National Conference, the Music Educators National Conference’s National Convention, and Musicfest Canada. A driving force in the jazz world, the Air Force Academy Band’s Falconaires play a major role in cultivating our national heritage through America’s only indigenous musical genre, jazz.

The Falconaires Jazz Ensemble concert is free, but advance tickets are required. Tickets may be obtained by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope with request to: Tickets, City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department, PO Box 190016, North Charleston, SC, 29419-9016. Please limit 6 tickets per mail-in request. Tickets are also available for pick up Monday through Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm, from the North Charleston Cultural Arts Department office on the second floor of North Charleston City Hall, located at 2500 City Hall Lane, North Charleston, SC 29406. Unclaimed seats will be available to non-ticket holders 15 minutes prior to concert time.

For more information about this concert or other programs and services offered by the North Charleston Cultural Arts Department, call 843-740-5854, email culturalarts@northcharleston.org, or visit http://bit.ly/culturalarts.

Friday, September 14, 2012

Mayor Summey cooks breakfast to support the Teachers' Supply Closet



North Charleston Mayor R. Keith Summey served up free breakfast at Cork Neighborhood Bistro on Friday, September 14 to benefit the Teachers' Supply Closet (TSC), but donations were accepted.

94.3 WSC morning host, Kelly Golden, hosted her show live from the event.



Mayor Summey began planning the fundraiser after meeting with TSC leaders over the summer about their expansion plans that serve greater North Charleston area schools. However, the event was more important than ever. The Teachers’ Supply Closet suffered extensive water damage and loss of supplies on Tuesday, August 28 when heavy rains and flooding throughout the area caused a blockage in a drain pipe which flooded the roof and subsequently the ‘Closet.’

“We have been working hard to get our facility back up and running and are so grateful to Mayor Summey and his staff for holding this event to help us recover. We look forward to meeting some new supporters!” said TSC Executive Director Deborah Hanlon.

Teachers' Supply Closet (TSC) is a non-profit organization that provides free school supplies to teachers in the Tri-County area who work at schools where 88 percent of the students are on the free or reduced lunch program. Currently 34 schools at the 88% poverty index (based on free and reduced lunch program statistics) from Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties are invited to shop.

Thursday, September 13, 2012

North Charleston students experience athletics at The Citadel



Over the next 6 weeks, The Citadel Athletics Department and the City of North Charleston are partnering to give participants in North Charleston’s 14 afterschool programs The Citadel Athletics experience. The experience coincides with North Charleston Recreation Department’s fall curriculum for afterschool programming, focused on leadership, dedication, goals, and positive life choices.

Approximately 150 children between the ages of 5-12 years old will visit The Citadel and observe the Bulldogs football team at practice while they prepare for the weekend’s game. Additionally, they will take tours of McAlister Field House and Johnson Hagood Stadium and will become familiar with The Citadel campus.

Visits will be made to The Citadel every Wednesday from 4:00pm to 5:15pm until October 24.

“This is an amazing opportunity for the children of North Charleston. It gives exposure and firsthand experience of The Citadel and the opportunities available after high school graduation,” said North Charleston Recreation Program Director Trish Elsie.

“This is a perfect partnership for The Citadel Athletics Department. Community outreach and involvement has been something we have been focusing on recently and we could not have asked for a better partner than the City of North Charleston Recreation Department,” said The Citadel Athletics Marketing Coordinator Ryan Powell.

Monday, September 3, 2012

North Charleston Kicks off Dinner Theatre Series on Sept 14

The Gentleman Pirate @ Piccolo Spoleto
Flickr user Chrys

Another fabulous season of dinner theatre kicks off in North Charleston on Friday, September 14, with The Gentleman Pirate, presented by Rodney Lee Rogers of PURE Theatre. Dinner for the evening is catered by Embassy Suites and features an entrée of Grilled Cypress Chicken served with garlic infused tomato concasse and herb aioli.

Written and performed by PURE Theatre co-founder, Rodney Lee Rogers, The Gentleman Pirate is a one-of-a kind, interactive theatrical event that brings to life the trials and glories of Stede Bonnet, also known as “The Gentleman Pirate.” The play focuses on Bonnet's 1718 trial, in which he gave his own defense and was, in the end, sentenced to death. Rogers referenced the existing trial transcripts to inform the production’s script, filling any factual gaps in Bonnet’s story with his Shakespearean-influenced imagination. Patrons have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session following the performance, where Rogers answers questions in character. Charleston City Paper critic, Jon Santiago, gives the production an “A” rating, calling it “great fun, splendidly performed and exhaustively researched.” The show has been performed everywhere from school cafeterias to the deck of the USS Yorktown, and enjoyed two sold out Piccolo Spoleto runs.

Working in multiple disciplines of dramatic form over the past 24 years, writer/actor/filmmaker Rodney Lee Rogers received the SC Arts Commission’s Playwriting Fellowship in 2010 and was awarded a SC Film Commission grant for his short film Downturn. His plays and one-acts plays have been produced in New York City, Seattle, Charlotte, and Charleston and include HOGS, The Tragedian, Killing Chickens, Fairgrounds, What Comes Around, Tell, Cowboys, and A Waffle House Christmas. His feature film Steaming Milk won runner-up Best Actor and Best Director awards at the 1997 Seattle International Film Festival and was chosen as a “Best of the Fest” of both The Seattle Times and The Seattle Post-Intelligencer. Theatre directing credits include Tell, Jesus Hopped the “A” Train, What Comes Around, HOGS, and The Beauty Queen of Leenane. Acting credits for the stage include The Pillowman, The Lonesome West, Cloud Tectonics, Underneath the Lintel, Eurydice, and The Tragedian. On television he has appeared on One Tree Hill, Medicine Ball, and Army Wives. He was voted Best Actor by Charleston City Paper for 2009 and 2010. Co-founders of PURE Theatre, he and his wife, artistic director Sharon Graci, live in Charleston with their five children.

The Dinner Theatre will be presented at the Charleston Area Convention Center Ballroom (adjacent to the North Charleston Performing Arts Center) at 5001 Coliseum Drive in North Charleston. The ballroom doors open at 7:00pm for dinner. Tickets are $40 per person. Group discounts are available. Ticket price includes dinner, play, and gratuity. Parking is free. A cash bar will be available. To purchase tickets or to request more information, contact Pam Smith at 843.740.5847 or email culturalarts@northcharleston.org. For information on additional programs and events, visit the Cultural Arts section of the City’s website at www.northcharleston.org