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Lisle Traywick becomes state chair of ABA’s Council of Appellate Lawyers

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Lisle Traywick, a member of Robinson Gray law firm, has been named South Carolina state chair of the Council of Appellate Lawyers for the American Bar Association.

The ABA describes the council as “the first and only national appellate bench-bar organization” and says its “mission is to foster a dialogue among federal and state appellate lawyers and judges that will improve appellate advocacy and strengthen ties among the numerous appellate bar associations.”

The state chairs promote awareness of the council and “collaborate with state, local, and federal appellate practitioners, bar groups, and courts to develop educational programs and other resources as well as networking opportunities for appellate lawyers nationwide.”

Appellate advocacy is a particular focus of Lisle’s civil litigation practice at Robinson Gray. He has represented governmental entities and public officials, litigating constitutional and election-related issues, and represented businesses and individuals in state and federal court. He also advises public utilities and represents them in regulatory proceedings. Through his diverse practice, he has gained experience handling injunctions, declaratory judgment actions, class actions, extraordinary writs, complex appeals, and original jurisdiction cases.

A Columbia native, Lisle graduated cum laude from Wofford College, receiving a bachelor’s degree in government with a concentration in political thought and a minor in economics. He then earned his Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law, where he served as Editor in Chief of the South Carolina Law Review.

Before joining Robinson Gray, Lisle clerked for the Honorable H. Bruce Williams at the South Carolina Court of Appeals and the Honorable David C. Norton at the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina.

About Robinson Gray Stepp & Laffitte, LLC

Located in the BullStreet District, Robinson Gray Stepp & Laffitte, LLC, is a South Carolina law firm that offers a tailored, hands-on approach. It provides business transactional and litigation representation in all state and federal trial and appellate courts in South Carolina. The firm’s 39 attorneys serve clients ranging from multi-national corporations to small businesses and individuals. For more, visit https://robinsongray.com/.

Main Street District Appoints Beth Frost as a Member of the Board of Directors

Columbia, SC – Main Street District appoints Beth Frost, Director of Business Development of Cohn Corporation as a new member of the Board of Directors.
As a board member, Beth will help guide marketing services, economic development, and public advocacy for the Main Street District throughout her term, which extends from Jan. 1st 2024, to Dec. 31st, 2024

“During my time working in the district, it is highly important to me as a part of the board to be able to continue to build and grow Main Street,” says Beth. “I am fortunate to have the opportunity to work along other leaders to help guide our great city to success.”
During Beth’s time since college, she has helped grow Columbia with Cohn Corporation over the last 13 years through cultivating relationships, bringing businesses to Columbia, as well as having local involvement on various local committees and boards. Beth maximizes Cohn’s recognition both locally and statewide and continually seeks ways to build relationships that will positively impact the community of Columbia.

ABOUT COHN CORPORATION
Cohn Corporation has over 30 years of commercial construction and real estate development experience. We provide a single source, business partner approach to real estate solutions. Through our construction and development divisions, we are able to broadly service our client’s real estate needs. Developing long-term relationships with our clients and providing value in the services we offer is at the core of our business. We have built our reputation as a trusted partner with our clients through our ability to consistently perform and deliver results. www.cohncorporation.com

ABOUT MAIN STREET DISTRICT
The Main Street District encompasses the 36-block area bounded by Gervais, Elmwood, Assembly, and Marion streets in Columbia, SC. The organization provides public space management, economic development, place management, marketing services, and public advocacy for the Main Street District. The Board of Directors oversees the organization’s mission — to focus on filling vacancies in commercial properties, retaining existing downtown businesses and recruiting new ones, expanding the downtown residential base, and creating a safe, clean, and friendly downtown environment.

 

Cyberwoven Marketing Director Joins Main Street District Board

Columbia, S.C. – Shayla Merritt, marketing director of Cyberwoven, an award-winning brand, digital marketing, and website design and development firm, joins the board of Downtown Columbia’s Main Street District. In her new role, Merritt will help guide the organization’s marketing, public advocacy, and economic development of the district.

Shayla Merritt, Cyberwoven’s Marketing Director

Merritt’s extensive background in marketing, design, and communications, having worked for industries in the non-profit, hospitality, tourism, and A/E/C sectors, will add to the growing reach of the district’s on-going marketing efforts.

“I am elated to join the Main Street District board, especially since I have enjoyed working in the district for the last 10 years,” says Merritt. “Watching what Matt [Kennell] and his team have done and continue to do to transform the district into an economic driver for our community has been truly inspiring. I am honored to join a group of thoughtful individuals who not only care for this growing community but, who will work hard to continue to make this the place to be – downtown on Main Street.”

Since her time in Columbia, Merritt has served the community in many ways. She is an active member of the AIA South Carolina’s Marketing and Communications Committee, the Columbia Chamber’s Leadership Columbia Advisory Board, the Columbia Museum of Art’s Contemporaries Board, the Main Street District’s Marketing and Communications Committee, Melius Forum, MIRCI’s Board of Directors, and the University of South Carolina’s Black Alumni Council.

About the Main Street District
The Main Street District encompasses the 36-block area bounded by Gervais, Elmwood, Assembly, and Marion streets in Columbia, SC. The organization provides public space management, economic development, place management, marketing services, and public advocacy for the Main Street District. The Board of Directors oversees the organization’s mission – to focus on filling vacancies in commercial properties, retaining existing downtown businesses and recruiting new ones, expanding the downtown residential base, and creating a safe, clean, and friendly downtown environment.

About Cyberwoven
Cyberwoven is a brand, marketing, and web agency headquartered on Main Street in downtown Columbia, SC. Since opening our doors in 2001, we have launched award-winning websites, guided the creation and evolution of brands, and built audience engagement both online and in person. We work with organizations in various industries, including the arts, culture, government, retail, education, finance, healthcare, and insurance. Our goal is to create authentic and unmistakable brand experiences that are infused with imagination, build trust, and inspire love. Learn more at cyberwoven.com.

Flock and Rally Welcomes Scott Harris, Seasoned Industry Expert, as Director of Advertising

Scott Harris

Flock and Rally, a full-service communications and marketing agency based in Columbia, South Carolina, welcomes longtime industry professional, Scott Harris, as its new director of advertising. With nearly two decades of experience in the advertising sector, Harris brings extensive knowledge in marketing strategy, integrated media planning and placement to the role.

“We are excited to introduce Scott as the newest addition to the Flock and Rally team,” says Merritt McNeely, Flock and Rally chief executive officer. “His expertise in advertising strategy combined with his background in media sales will allow us to better serve our clients and drive results.”

After graduating from Wingate University with a degree in communications, Harris spent 10 years at WIS-TV in Columbia as a senior account executive and political advertising specialist before joining Queue Advertising as market development manager. Most recently, he was the local sales manager at WACH FOX TV in Columbia, where he played a pivotal role in overseeing and managing sales operations related to digital and TV advertising.

“In the span of just a few years, Flock and Rally has experienced remarkable growth, becoming synonymous with the creation and execution of some of the most distinctive marketing campaigns in our state,” says Harris. “I am thrilled to rejoin the agency side of the advertising business, surrounded by the exceptional talent that defines Flock and Rally.”

Harris is an active member and former president of the Columbia chapter of the American Advertising Federation. He was also the organization’s director of programs for more than five years and has served as an ADDY Awards judge for several Southeast chapters. In addition, Harris serves on the communications board for Trenholm Road United Methodist Church.

About Flock and Rally: Integrated Communications & Marketing

Founded in 2010, Flock and Rally is a full-service, women-owned creative agency based in Columbia, South Carolina. The firm integrates branding, public relations, marketing, traditional advertising, digital advertising, social media and more into campaigns for a diverse base of clients, ranging from regional nonprofits to large-scale businesses across South Carolina and beyond. Serving industry sectors ranging from lifestyle and tourism to business, technology, real estate, economic development and more, Flock and Rally’s mission is to rally the community around great ideas. Learn more at www.flockandrally.com.

X: www.twitter.com/flockandrally

Facebook: www.facebook.com/flockandrally

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flockandrally

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flockandrally

Connectivity Point Hires Rashida Beach for Newly Created Sales Development Role

Columbia, SC– Connectivity Point Design & Installation has hired Rashida Beach as a SC Sales Development Representative to support sales in South Carolina. Following the 2019 acquisition of Creative Computer Solutions (CCS) in Columbia, South Carolina, Connectivity Point has consistently expanded, attracting skilled individuals to foster continuous growth. The recent addition of the Sales Development position is a strategic move to complement the organic growth of the company.

With a real estate background, Rashida brings her passion for marketing and sales to Connectivity Point. Originally from a quaint South Carolina town, she holds a business and theater degree from The College of Charleston and is currently pursuing a master’s in information technology management. Rashida is driven by her commitment to cultivate genuine connections, both through technology and meaningful relationships.

Choosing Connectivity Point, Rashida sees it as the nexus between cutting-edge technology and exemplary customer service, embodying the best of both worlds. Recognized for fervor and outstanding customer service in her previous roles, Rashida’s sales affinity developed during her tenure as a real estate agent, where she found gratification in aiding individuals and offering viable solutions. Connectivity Point, with its solution-oriented approach, became her choice.

“Connectivity Point stands out for its commitment to professionalism, extensive knowledge, and expertise. It is viewed as an innovative entity continually advancing through exceptional services and top-notch products,” says Rashida. “I’m excited about navigating uncharted territory, looking forward to tackling fresh challenges, and contributing to the company’s ongoing success.”

Rashida Beach, CPDI Sales Development Representative, can be reached at rbeach@connectivitypoint.com and (803) 683-0885.

About Connectivity Point
Connectivity Point Design and Installation is a fast-growing technology integrator providing design, installation, and support services for low-voltage infrastructure and specialty equipment. Their professional services fall into five major disciplines: Structured Network Cabling, Audio-Visual Solutions, Security Solutions, Wireless Networks, and Telephone Systems. Established in 2002, this Maine-based business has more than 200 employees in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and South Carolina. They perform work in 44 states and 35 countries.
Learn more at www.connectivitypoint.com.

McMillan Pazdan Smith Welcomes Samer Hamde as Healthcare Practice Leader

Samer Hamde, Healthcare Practice Leader, McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture. Photo Provided.

McMillan Pazdan Smith (MPS), a leading architecture, planning, and design firm in the Southeast, is pleased to announce that Samer Hamde has joined the firm as Healthcare Practice Leader.

Hamde brings 25 years of progressive experience in architecture, engineering, planning, and program management, with a focus on healthcare design. He has held senior leadership roles with Amec Foster Wheeler, JLL, and NELSON Worldwide, where he was a Principal and National Practice Leader for Healthcare and CCJ&E.

“Samer Hamde is an exciting addition to our firm’s leadership. He brings a wealth of healthcare industry experience, insights, and trusted relationships with clients and stakeholders,” said Chad Cousins, CEO of McMillan Pazdan Smith. “The reach of McMillan Pazdan Smith’s healthcare design, planning, and advisory practice continues to grow, and Samer will work closely with our team to expand our service capability, and design-centered value and impact for the health and wellbeing of our regional communities.”

Hamde will be based in the firm’s Atlanta studio, “MPS is known for creating patient-centered environments, optimizing workflow efficiencies, and integrating cutting-edge data and advisory services that are invaluable to the delivery of healthcare facilities,” said Hamde, “I am excited to begin this remarkable journey with this experienced and talented team.”

McMillan Pazdan Smith has healthcare-dedicated architects, designers, planners, advisors, and data-analysts across its eight studio locations throughout the Southeast. For more than 30 years, its healthcare practice has provided innovative and sustainable design solutions for a wide range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, free-standing emergency departments, behavioral health clinics and medical office buildings.

MPS’ healthcare portfolio includes Bon Secours Mercy Health’s St. Francis tower modernization and emergency department addition (Greenville, S.C.), CaroMont Health’s new Belmont Campus (Belmont, N.C.), MUSC’s Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital (in association with Perkins & Will, Charleston, S.C.), and Prisma Health’s Multi-Specialty Ambulatory Care Center (MACC).

About McMillan Pazdan Smith
McMillan Pazdan Smith is an architecture, advisory services, planning, and interior design firm. Practicing since 1955, the firm currently has eight locations throughout the Southeast. As a community-based firm, MPS is driven by a collaborative culture, creative client solutions, and design excellence. With over 100 AIA awards since 2000, the firm’s purpose is to reimagine what’s possible and create meaningful and lasting impact for the good of all.

Flock and Rally Announces the Hiring of Scott Harris as New Director of Advertising

Flock and Rally, a full-service communications and marketing agency based in Columbia, South Carolina, welcomes longtime industry professional, Scott Harris, as its new director of advertising. With nearly two decades of experience in the advertising sector, Harris brings extensive knowledge in marketing strategy, integrated media planning and placement to the role.

“We are excited to introduce Scott as the newest addition to the Flock and Rally team,” says Merritt McNeely, Flock and Rally chief executive officer. “His expertise in advertising strategy combined with his background in media sales will allow us to better serve our clients and drive results.”

After graduating from Wingate University with a degree in communications, Harris spent 10 years at WIS-TV in Columbia as a senior account executive and political advertising specialist before joining Queue Advertising as market development manager. Most recently, he was the local sales manager at WACH FOX TV in Columbia, where he played a pivotal role in overseeing and managing sales operations related to digital and TV advertising.

“In the span of just a few years, Flock and Rally has experienced remarkable growth, becoming synonymous with the creation and execution of some of the most distinctive marketing campaigns in our state,” says Harris. “I am thrilled to rejoin the agency side of the advertising business, surrounded by the exceptional talent that defines Flock and Rally.”

Harris is an active member and former president of the Columbia chapter of the American Advertising Federation. He was also the organization’s director of programs for more than five years and has served as an ADDY Awards judge for several Southeast chapters. In addition, Harris serves on the communications board for Trenholm Road United Methodist Church.

About Flock and Rally: Integrated Communications & Marketing
Founded in 2010, Flock and Rally is a full-service, women-owned creative agency based in Columbia, South Carolina. The firm integrates branding, public relations, marketing, traditional advertising, digital advertising, social media and more into campaigns for a diverse base of clients, ranging from regional nonprofits to large-scale businesses across South Carolina and beyond. Serving industry sectors ranging from lifestyle and tourism to business, technology, real estate, economic development and more, Flock and Rally’s mission is to rally the community around great ideas. Learn more at www.flockandrally.com.

X: www.twitter.com/flockandrally
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flockandrally
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flockandrally
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flockandrally

The Blood Connection President & CEO Elected to Chair Board of National Blood Organization

Blood Centers of America (BCA) has announced the appointment of Delisa English, President and CEO of The Blood Connection (TBC), as incoming Chair of its Board of Directors, beginning January 2024.

BCA is the largest blood supply network in the United States and is comprised of over 60+ independent blood centers who collect and distribute over 50% of the nation’s blood supply. The Blood Connection, a long-standing member of BCA, is one of the area’s largest independent blood providers serving 130 hospital partners in communities throughout South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia.

“It is a privilege to be chosen to serve on the Board for BCA. I’m looking forward to working alongside the BCA committee advocating and educating for the nation’s blood supply in the various communities these independent blood centers represent and serve,” says English.

With over 28 years in the blood industry, English has served as President and CEO of TBC for the past decade. Prior to joining TBC, English held several leadership roles with The American Red Cross Biomedical Services. She holds a Master of Business Administration degree from The University of Tennessee and a Bachelor of Science degree from Auburn University. English is active in the Greenville community volunteering with several organizations and serving on non-profit boards.

“It is an honor to be able to have Ms. English serve in this capacity with Blood Centers of America”, said Bill Block, President and CEO of BCA. He adds, “Ms. English has significant expertise and tenure in serving the Cooperative for many years in Committee leadership as well as on the BCA Executive Committee. I look forward to working with her and fellow blood centers across our organization to continue to combine our deep local knowledge with our extensive national network to expand services to the communities we serve.”

About The Blood Connection
Founded in Greenville, SC, (formerly the Carolina Georgia Blood Center) The Blood Connection has been committed to saving lives since 1962. TBC is an independently managed, not-for-profit, community blood center that provides blood products to over 130 hospitals within South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia and Virginia. Recognized by the U.S. Congress for its dedication to disaster preparedness and the community, TBC works diligently to collect blood from volunteer donors to meet the ever-increasing demand. By keeping collections local, TBC serves hundreds of thousands of patients a year in its communities. TBC is licensed and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. For more information, visit thebloodconnection.org.

Main Street District Appoints Beth Frost As A Member Of The Board Of Directors

Columbia, SC – Main Street District appoints Beth Frost, Director of Business Development of Cohn Corporation as a new member of the Board of Directors.

As a board member, Beth will help guide marketing services, economic development, and public advocacy for the Main Street District throughout her term, which extends from Jan. 1st 2024, to Dec. 31st, 2024

“During my time working in the district, it is highly important to me as a part of the board to be able to continue to build and grow Main Street,” says Beth. “I am fortunate to have the opportunity to work along other leaders to help guide our great city to success.”

During Beth’s time since college, she has helped grow Columbia with Cohn Corporation over the last 13 years through cultivating relationships, bringing businesses to Columbia, as well as having local involvement on various local committees and boards. Beth maximizes Cohn’s recognition both locally and statewide and continually seeks ways to build relationships that will positively impact the community of Columbia.

ABOUT COHN CORPORATION
Cohn Corporation has over 30 years of commercial construction and real estate development experience. We provide a single source, business partner approach to real estate solutions. Through our construction and development divisions, we are able to broadly service our client’s real estate needs. Developing long-term relationships with our clients and providing value in the services we offer is at the core of our business. We have built our reputation as a trusted partner with our clients through our ability to consistently perform and deliver results. www.cohncorporation.com

ABOUT MAIN STREET DISTRICT
The Main Street District encompasses the 36-block area bounded by Gervais, Elmwood, Assembly, and Marion streets in Columbia, SC. The organization provides public space management, economic development, place management, marketing services, and public advocacy for the Main Street District. The Board of Directors oversees the organization’s mission — to focus on filling vacancies in commercial properties, retaining existing downtown businesses and recruiting new ones, expanding the downtown residential base, and creating a safe, clean, and friendly downtown environment.

Hussey Gay Bell Columbia Expands with the Hire of Johnson

Walker Johnson

Columbia, SC – Hussey Gay Bell is pleased to announce the hire of Mr. Walker Johnson as a Civil Design Engineer for the firm’s Columbia office. Walker joins Hussey Gay Bell with a range of site/civil engineering experience including utility design, stormwater design, calculations, modeling/report development, preparation of construction documents and agency permitting. Under the direction of the Columbia Office Managing Director, he assists with services related to site development for commercial, residential and industrial projects. Walker holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering degree from Georgia Southern University and is proficient in 3D modeling and measurement software including Revit, Solidworks Modeling, Civil 3D and Terrestrial Lidar. Walker is skilled in MIG welding and infrared thermography and is also scuba certified.