eUpdate, June 27, 2011

The Chamber will be closed Monday, July 4 in honor of Independence Day. There will also be no eUpdate the week of July 4. Have a safe and happy holiday.

Businesses Rally Support for Port of Charleston, Cruise Industry and Region’s Economy

The region’s major business associations and their top leaders gathered today for a press conference to rally in support of the Port of Charleston, the cruise industry, Carnival Cruise lines and the overall need to focus on growing and developing the region’s economy in response to the law suit filed last week against the Carnival.

The groups present included:
Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce
Berkeley Chamber of Commerce
Charleston Regional Development Alliance
Charleston Restaurant Association
Charleston Trident Home Builders Association
Trident CEO Council
Maritime Association of South Carolina
Mt. Pleasant Business Association
Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce
World Trade Center Charleston

All of the organizations today, represent thousands of members who are committed to supporting the Charleston area by creating a business environment and quality of life that advance the wealth and well-being of all Lowcountry citizens. The cruise industry has been part of our working waterfront for decades, bringing jobs and business to the area.

The lawsuit filed is a direct attack on Carnival Cruise Lines and their ability to conduct business in the Port of Charleston. The cruise industry has a $37 million annual economic impact on the Charleston region by supporting hundreds of maritime jobs, including harbor pilots, stevedores and longshoremen. In addition, local businesses such as food suppliers, florists, office supply, healthcare, and more provide goods and services to the cruise industry.

“Is any community prosperous enough to turn its back on jobs and one of its top economic platforms?” said Ron Jones, Chairman of the Charleston Metro Chamber. “The Charleston Metro Chamber is committed to supporting our region, the lifestyle, jobs and businesses of our residents. Imagine the message this lawsuit against a private customer of the Port is sending to other businesses who may consider moving to our area.”

“The Port of Charleston is a critical statewide asset and a key economic engine for the Charleston region and for South Carolina,” said David Ginn, president & CEO of the Charleston Regional Development Alliance. “This lawsuit against one of the Port’s customers sends the wrong message to businesses worldwide. We must have a port that is healthy in order for our region to remain globally competitive.”

“The Port of Charleston and Carnival Cruise Lines provide numerous employment opportunities to our region. Our Port has a significant economic impact on not only our region, but the entire state of South Carolina. This lawsuit impedes on the well-being of our state, puts up another roadblock for our businesses trying to come out of an economical valley, and implies that South Carolina is not a business friendly state,” said Elaine M. Morgan, CEO, Berkeley Chamber of Commerce.

“This lawsuit is wrong and sends the wrong message to businesses around the world about our region. We are not, in fact a place that doesn’t want business. We are instead a community that welcomes new business and new jobs and opportunities for all,” said David Maybank III, Chairman, World Trade Center Charleston.

"During the otherwise dark days of 2009, Carnival selected Charleston for a new weekly cruise service. While some few may see it differently, we on the waterfront view the magnificent Fantasy as a White Knight. We're glad to have Carnival, and we look forward to a long and fruitful relationship,” said John Hassel, President, Maritime Association of South Carolina.

“We believe that the Port of Charleston is the single most important asset in our region. It is the engine that drives business to our region and to the entire state of South Carolina. The lawsuit not only sends a negative message to any business or industry that is considering relocating here, but also has a serious impact on existing industry and the lives of people that it supports.” said Will Russell, Chairman of the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce.

“In this economy, job creation is our number one priority. Having Carnival as part of our community is necessary to reduce unemployment through their support of local businesses by bringing thousands of visitors to our great region. It is unfortunate that the Coastal Conservation League continues their policies of valuing their own self-interest, under the guise of saving our quality of life, over job creation for the middle class,” said Phillip Ford, Executive Vice President, Charleston Trident Homebuilders Association.

“There are legitimate concerns that should be addressed; however targeting the cruise line is only a diversionary tactic that is meant to drive away one of the top cruise lines in the industry. The opposition’s tactic to file a lawsuit against the cruise line, instead of the Ports Authority has damaged our port’s reputation in the international shipping community. It seeks to drive away other shipping industries that would call on our ports, further diminishing our ranking as an international port destination on the East Coast,” said Shawna Harris, president, Mt. Pleasant Business Association.

Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Honored with Chamber Joseph P. Riley Leadership Award

The Chamber presented City of Charleston Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr. with the Joseph P. Riley Leadership Award at the Chamber’s 238th Annual Gala on June 24. This prestigious award is given each year to an individual who demonstrates outstanding leadership qualities and uses their skills to make this region a better place.

The Joseph P. Riley Award was created in 1992 by the Chamber’s Board of Directors in honor of one of our finest citizens and leaders. This prestigious award is given to an individual, who like “Big Joe,” demonstrates outstanding leadership qualities and uses their skills to make this region a better place.
“Mayor Riley is a true partner with the Chamber and leader in doing everything he can to make sure not just the City of Charleston, but the entire greater Charleston area is the America’s best place to live, learn, work and play. He shares the Chamber’s priorities – job creation, economic growth, ensuring we have the infrastructure for our community and improvement of education –  these are all key areas of focus for him just like they are for all of us,” said Bryan Derreberry, Chamber president and CEO.

In his 36 years in office, Mayor Riley has been a visionary leader, transforming Charleston into one of the world’s leading communities. Charleston was the first community in the country to develop a tourism management plan to ensure the character of the community is balanced with this vital economic sector. Bobby Pearce, Mayor Riley, Bryan Derreberry
Photo Credit: Robbie Silver Photography

Mayor Riley has partnered with the Chamber on many issues including leading the effort to establish CARTA to move our employees from one part of the community to another. He worked tirelessly with the entire community in 1993 in the effort to save the Charleston Naval Base and Shipyard. Since that time, he continues to be very involved and engaged in our military policy efforts, even traveling to Washington, D.C with the Chamber to meet with leaders in the Pentagon.

Mayor Riley was also one of the strongest supporters and worked with the Chamber every step of the way in 2002 and again in 2004 as the Chamber led the campaign to promote the passage of the ½ cent sales tax. He helped secure the needed financial resources, met with neighborhood, community, religious and business leaders, conducted media interviews, even stood out in the rain and handed out pennies on Hwy 17 one morning. He was there again this past Fall with the one cent sales tax for schools.

Chamber Presents Awards at Annual Meeting

The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 238th year at its Annual Gala on June 24, 201 at the Charleston Area Convention Center which recognized the Chamber’s accomplishments as well as acknowledged the hard work of its volunteers and commitment of its members.

The Chamber honored Ron Jones, Clawson and Staubes and Patrick Bryan, Go To Team for their outstanding time and commitment in co-chairing the penny sales tax referendum to help Charleston County Schools. In just 90 days Jones and Bryan built and executed a campaign that passed by a 2/3 vote. They volunteered their time by making presentations, raised funds, media interviews and even passed out flyers on Election Day.



Bobby Pearce, Patrick Bryan, Ron Jones and Bryan Derreberry
Photo Credit: Robbie Silver Photography

The Chamber also presented the 1773 Chamber Award of the Year to Trident Technical College. The 1773 Chamber Awards are named in honor of the Chamber’s founding year. Winners exemplify the Chamber’s core values of leadership, relevance, integrity, diversity, and innovation.

Trident Technical College has been serving the educational needs of the Charleston community for 45 years. They are committed to fostering student success, developmental education and comprehensive student services. In addition to traditional instruction, their flexible course offerings and alternative delivery methods, including online instruction, enable more members of the community to pursue higher education. Second only to the University of South Carolina in the number of undergraduates it serves, their students have access to over 150 associate degree and credit certificate programs.    





Bryan Derreberry, Chamber, Dr. Mary  Thornley,
Trident Tech and Bobby Collins, Chamber Chairman.
Photo Credit: Robbie Silver Photography

Expand your horizons; Open your eyes...

For 37 years, the Chamber has offered Leadership Charleston, a 10-month program for professionals offering an intensive and up-close look at various issues impacting our region. Beginning with a two-day retreat on September 7-8, followed by one-day sessions each month through June 2012, the program features prominent and stimulating speakers who encourage discussion and participation and visits to various community assets, including schools, hospitals, the Port of Charleston, military facilities, and a trip to the SC Statehouse. Each session examines leadership roles in political, social and economic affairs.

"Leadership Charleston has both enriched my life and opened my eyes. The comprehensive review of social and economic issues as they relate to the significant impacts on our community was profound. It has prompted me to become more involved and stay further informed. It has also allowed me to educate others especially clients and colleagues on items of importance. It was the single best decision I could have made after arriving in town,"  said Alan Bolduc, Commercial Acquisition Services, LLC Class of 2011

What’s in it for you and your employer?

Upon completion of Leadership Charleston, each participant will have:
• Strengthened leadership abilities
• Refined skills that can increase organizational effectiveness and efficiency
• Access to an informed network of diverse colleagues for individual, business and community problem-solving.
• Exposure to a variety of community leaders
• An understanding of the realities, opportunities and challenges of our community, as well as solutions and alternatives for dealing with them
• An opportunity to position their business as an organization that is committed to improving the community.
• A greater knowledge of the region and its leaders
• Completed a 10 month project for a community-based non-profit organization
• An opportunity to become involved with and bring about positive change in our community

Monthly Sessions
The ten, one-day sessions are held from October - June from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. At each session, state and local business and community leaders will share their knowledge through lively discussions and activities that highlight real situations, needs and opportunities within the metro area.

Leadership Charleston also offers first-hand experience through site visits and operational tours of area facilities. Past visits have included the South Carolina General Assembly/Statehouse, Lieber Correctional Institution, Joint Base Charleston, SPAWAR Systems Center Atlantic, Port of Charleston, ReadySC, Charleston International Airport, Project SeaHawk and many other schools, hospitals, businesses and organizations.

Session topics are presented through lively debate, lectures, discussion groups, field experiences, simulations, workshops and case studies. Topics may include:

• Education and workforce development
• Government and politics
• Infrastructure
• Port of Charleston
• Criminal Justice
• Economic Development
• Health Care
• Human Services
• Military

Orientation-Retreat
Leadership Charleston is built on strong fundamental leadership principles. At the two-day Orientation-Retreat held September 7-8 (at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort) attendees will participate in a number of interactive, team-building activities designed to demonstrate the dynamics of effective leadership. The retreat allows class members to push themselves and provides the skills and confidence necessary to be effective leaders.

Class Projects
The Community Leadership Projects serve an important role in the Leadership Charleston curriculum, and are designed to accomplish the following objectives:
• Provide value-added support and consultation to a local nonprofit
• Provide a civic engagement opportunity for class members to collectively learn about and address critical community needs
• Provide an opportunity for class members to develop meaningful relationships with each other through teamwork and to gain experience leading in a team setting
• Provide an opportunity for class members to learn about how nonprofit organizations address community needs

Enrichment opportunities abound within the Leadership Charleston program. A primary goal of the Leadership Charleston program is to encourage individuals to engage in their community. Participants are encouraged to attend public meetings within the tri-county region. These could be anything from a County or City Council meeting to School District Board meetings, to PTA meetings, to other types of public forums.

Timeline for Class of 2012
Chamber membership required for registration
Late May: Online Registration opens
July 15: Application deadline (application must be received by 5 p.m.)
Late July: Selection Committee vets applications
July 31: Acceptance Notification Deadline

For guidelines, selection criteria and to fill out an application click here.

For more information contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at 843.805.3034.

Online Auction Open Until July 1

Online auction items from the Annual Gala are still available for bidding until July 1 at 12 p.m. There are some great items for a  great price so get to bidding.

Some items include:

Private wine tastings for six people at Crushed Fine Wine - (current bid $105 with value of $350)
NASCAR package - four tickets with pit and garage passes (current bid $420 with value of $3,150)
Dockage at Bristol Marina - six months of dockage (current bid is $520 with value of $2,600)
Spa packages - Six Parisian face peels and one botox treatment (current bid $210 with value $1,575)
Fall Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) - Get your Fall season vegetable fresh off Ambrose Family Farms (current bid $120 with value $200)

Check it out, bid and win!

Military Relations Committee Attends Naval Nuclear Power School Graduation

On June 17, members of the Chamber’s Military Relations Committee visited the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command and received a command brief from Commanding Officer Captain Tom Bailey. They also had the opportunity to attend the Power School graduation of more than 400 sailors. Before any sailor or officer is assigned to any US Navy vessel propelled using nuclear power, they must first come through the “Nuke School” at Joint Base Charleston. NNPTC graduates nearly 400 sailors every eight weeks at its location in Goose Creek. Joint Base Charleston is actually home two major naval nuclear propulsion training facilities, the NNPTC, and the Naval Nuclear Power Training Unit, one of only two upper-level training units in the Navy.

The Naval Nuclear Power Training Command is the Navy’s only entry-level school for students coming straight out of boot camp and has more than 3,200 students enrolled in Goose Creek facility and a faculty and staff of more than 500. NNPTC is set up to feel like a college campus and was designed specifically to house the entry-level A School and the advanced Power School together in a single state-of-the-art facility.

The Nuclear Power Training Unit, just down Redbank Road, is an upper-level school that trains sailors for submarine operations and lists more than 700 students enrolled. Currently 50 percent of the graduating officers and enlisted sailors coming out of NNPTC stay in Charleston to continue their 24-week upper-level training at NNPTU. The facility is home to two moored submarines with custom-built nuclear powered platforms and is one of only two sites in the country where this level of training is possible. By the end of the decade (2020) Charleston is expected to see 75 percent of the students come through the NNPTU at Joint Base Charleston. Former Unit Commanding Officer CAPT Ralph Ward, now the Deputy Joint Base Commander, recently stated that one of the facilities at the other training unit in Sarasota Springs, New York will be shut down and those students will come here. Joint Base Charleston already is the largest employer in the region with over 22,000 military personnel and civilians and has an annual economic impact of $4.67 billion annually.

The Chamber’s Military Relations Committee meets quarterly at a different military installation either on Joint Base Charleston or the Federal Complex at the old Navy base. The mission is to familiarize the business community with local military facilities and to educate the community on the importance of their impact. The MRC is also active in mobilizing grassroots support to military commands and helps to promote patriotic attitudes in the community. The Committee is open to any Chamber member. Military Relations Committee members contribute $100 per year to help support the Chamber’s military efforts. For more information, contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .