Featured Stories - 2018
November 2018
Pruitt Consulting Services, LLC
Pruitt Consulting Services, LLC (PCS) was founded by Mrs. Dana Moore Pruitt in 2016 after eight years of working as a project and construction administrator in the Architecture and Engineering Industry. In her career Mrs. Pruitt has provided administration services on some of the largest infrastructure projects in South Carolina history. PCS provides construction administration, utility coordination, and SWPPP inspection services for projects in both the public and private sector. In its short history, PCS has provided professional services for Richland County, City of Columbia, the University of South Carolina, SCDOT, and numerous private clients as a consultant or sub-consultant. PCS was certified as a Richland County Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) on November 8, 2017 for NAICS Code 541611 (construction administration), NAICS Code 541618 (utility coordination), and NAICS Code 541620 (CEPSCI/SWPPP inspections). PCS is also an SCDOT Certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise and a South Carolina Limited Liability Company. Mrs. Pruitt grew up in Richland County and currently lives with her husband in the northeast area of Richland County Council District 9. PCS is humbled and excited about its partnership with Richland County and other SLBEs to promote economic growth and development.
For more information contact pruittdm@pruitt-llc.com
October 2018
Bayrich Virtual Business Solutions, LLC
In 2014, Annette Rich, CEO/President of BayRich Virtual Business Solutions, LLC read an article in the, “Entrepreneur” (an online magazine) about the struggles of the small business owner. At that time, she realized that the solution to the problems of most small businesses would be solved by hiring a virtual assistant. That is when BayRich Virtual Business Solutions, LLC was created. BayRich was formed in January, 2015 on the idea that small businesses and government entities worldwide could delegate their additional administrative task to a highly-trained, independent office staffer. This professional staffer would provide a myriad of administrative support services behind the scenes while utilizing today’s technology. The idea is to create the same support capabilities as the Fortune 500 companies without the extra office space, office equipment or huge entitlements that comes with more staffing. As a result, the governmental agencies or owner of a business would be free to focus their time and energies on working on their more important missions or tasks versus wasting valuable time and energy on the small, repetitive details of the job. BayRich Virtual Business Solutions, LLC is an administrative support service company (or virtual assistant) that has been in business for four years and specializes in administrative office support under the NAICS Codes 561110, 561210, 561410, 561499. Annette Rich, CEO/President, has over 25 years of experience in the administrative profession to include the government and private sectors for legislators, government executives and small business owners. BayRich believes in partnering and taking a vested interest in your mission. BayRich Virtual Business Solutions, LLC is located in Richland County, District 10 under the leadership of Councilwoman Dalhi Myers. BayRich just recently received its Richland County Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) certification. BayRich is excited about its partnership with Richland County and is committed to doing its part in promoting economic growth and development.
For more information contact www.bayrich.net
September 2018
Kenneth B. Simmons Associates, LLC
Kenneth B. Simmons Associates, LLC (KBS) was established in 1946 for the practice of landscape architecture and land planning (NAICS 541320). Kenneth B. Simmons, Sr., the founder, was the first South Carolina born landscape architect and established the first landscape architectural firm in South Carolina. Since its beginning over 70 years ago, the firm has completed over 2500 award winning projects. KBS serves clients in the public and private sector throughout North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia with a total staff of four employees. Services include comprehensive consultations, master planning, and full developmental site design services for a wide variety of projects including recreational facilities, greenways, urban design, commercial and residential developments. In each of these areas our team-based interdisciplinary approach means every aspect of your project will receive the highest level of design expertise and project management to assure its total success. KBS is currently owned and operated by Kenneth B. Simmons Jr. The firm is located in Columbia, SC, Richland County Council District 3, and has been a Richland County certified Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) since 2014.
For more information contact www.kbsala.com
August 2018
SLC Hauling and Trucking Company, LLC
SLC Hauling and Trucking Company is a family owned and operated dumping business located in Blythewood, SC and specializes in NAICS code, 484220, hauling and dumping asphalt, sand, gravel and other building materials. SLC has over 15 years of business management experience and has highly trained drivers. The company’s vision is to grow their ability to provide excellent customer service, quality drivers as well as providing charitable contributions to the community. SSL is a Richland County Government certified Emerging Small Local Business Enterprise (ESLBE) and is located in Richland County Council District 2.
For more information contact www.slctrucking.com
Shady Grove Construction, LLC
Shady Grove Construction, LLC is a woman owned small business, founded May 30, 2001. The company is certified as a Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) with Richland County Office of Small Business Opportunity and is located in Irmo, Richland County District 1. Shady Grove is a premier utility contractor whose reputation is built on the belief of hard work and attention to details. Their satisfied clients included, SCDOT, Federal Government and Municipalities. The staff focuses on ingenuity, skill, dedication and it is the definition of what you should look for in a utility contractor. They continue their efforts to maintain the highest standards of excellence. Shady Grove Construction company takes great pride in their organization’s work and takes all necessary measure to ensure that every project receives the highest standard of service. Shady Grove Construction is dedicated to meeting the requirements of each project. You can feel confident knowing they will ensure projects are finished on time, within budget, and conform to the high standards they require. They are passionately committed to providing their customers with quality workmanship and a valuable service. They ensure their customers receive the quality of service in which they deserve by providing a quality product through integrity and hard work.
For more information contact www.shadygroveconstruction.com
July 2018
P & B Promotionals, LLC
P & B Promotionals is an Advertising Specialty company, located in Southeast, Richland County Council District 10; and have been in business since November 1995. They specialize in providing imprinted promotional products to Corporations, Governmental Agencies, Small Businesses, Family Reunions, Church and other organizations (NAICS 541890, 448190, 813910). These items include (but are not limited to), T-Shirts, Padfolios, Tote Bags, Pens and over 700,000 other products. They have been nationally certified by the Advertising Specialty Institute for more than 20 years, and is also certified locally with the South Carolina Small and Minority Business Contracting and Certification (SMBCC) and the Richland County Office of Small Business Opportunity (OSBO). P & B takes great pride in treating all their clients fairly, while providing them with the best products available, and an ‘on time’ delivery; P&B Promotionals knows there is nothing worse than ordering imprinted products for an event, only to the order arrive late with the with the incorrect color and imprint. So if you are in the market for imprinted promotional products for an upcoming trade show or event; to market your business; or just to tell your clients ‘Thank you,’ then P & B Promotionals is the company you should contact first. They promise not to disappoint!
For more information contact www.pbpromotionals.com;
Premier Care Services, LLC
Premier Care Services, LLC is a full service Transportation and management firm specializing in NAICS code 81221, which includes funeral homes and funeral services. The company was certified on January 29, 2018, as a Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) through the Office of Small Business Opportunity and is located in Columbia, Richland County Council District 7. Premier Care Services was established in 2016, by owner Christopher Greene. Premier Care Services is a 1st call removal and transport company with trained and professional staff that provides “Service with Passion”. Services include nursing home and residential removals, coroner’s office and medical examiner removal and transfers, airport pick-up and delivery, funeral home to funeral home transfers, and state to state transportation.
For more information contact www.premiercareservices.net
June 2018
K&D Masonry and Concrete, LLC
K&D Masonry and Concrete, LLC, was established in 2007 by owner and President, Kenneth Boyles. Mr. Boyles was born and raised Richland County. K&D is one of the finest masonry and concrete companies in the business. They have served as subcontractor under reputable general contracting companies and currently operate as a general contractor company. K&D specializes in NAICS codes 236220, 237310, and 238140, which includes additions, alterations and renovations, general contracting, brick veneer installation, concrete paving (highway, road, street, and public sidewalks), hauling (1), and demolition. The company was certified as a Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) through the Richland County Office of Small Business Opportunity (OSBO) on August 7, 2017, and is located in Columbia, Richland County Council District 7. The company is a certified DBE in SC, NC & GA. K&D offers the following advice to other entrepreneurs: “Believe in your dreams and live them through your company”.
For more information contact ken@kdmasonryconcrete.com
New South NetCom, LLC
On August 2015, Taz Little decided to pursue his dream of opening New South NetCom, LLC and successfully launched Skyward Drone. Skyward Drone is a premier provider of innovative drone-based solutions to support the needs of our clients. Our team of experts will oversee your implementation every step of the way, making full integration effortless. Skyward Drone is committed to creating innovative and flexible solutions for our County, State and Federal clients. Skyward Drone, specializing in NAICS codes 541922, 541370, 611710,336411 and 115310, our main areas of specialization: Drone/UAS operation services, Drone Detection systems, Inspections, Mapping Services, Aerial Photography services, Drone pilot training and STEM Education programs. Skyward Drone was certified as a Richland County Small and Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) on 10 May 2018. Skyward Drone is in the downtown area of Columbia, Richland County Council District 4, Columbia, SC. The owner and Pilot in Charge of Skyward Drone is Taz Little. He has a vast network of drone pilots though out the United States with backgrounds and skill sets in Law enforcement, Military, pilots, teachers and IT. Taz Little served in the Marine Corp out of high school later retired with the Army. He holds a degree in Cyber and Network Security and member of Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International(AUVSI). He also FAA Licensed and a SkyEye Network Drone Flight Instructor. Skyward Drone is excited about the partnership with Richland County and other SLBEs to promote economic growth and development. Skyward Drone is a proud supporter of Richland County, its residents and is excited for the opportunity to serve.
May 2018
RB Todd Consulting Engineers, LLC
For many years, Bruce Todd worked as a civil engineer for both small and large consulting firms in Richland County. When his last employer decided to move out of the Columbia market, he took the entrepreneurial leap and formed RB Todd Consulting Engineers in Richland County in 2005. As a civil engineering consulting firm specializing in NAICS code 541330, RB Todd provides services to municipalities, higher education institutions, and companies in five main areas of specialization: site design, recreation facilities, roadways, stormwater management, and utilities. RB Todd was certified March 29 as a Richland County Small and Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) in Richland County Council, District 1 and is located in Irmo, SC. Clay Cannon joined the firm in 2013, becoming a partner in 2016. The company serves customers in South Carolina and North Carolina with a total staff of six employees. As a team, the company has achieved significant growth over the last three years and has a reputation in the area as a firm that always designs on budget and delivers on time. The partners of RB Todd are excited about their new partnership with Richland County and other SLBEs to promote economic growth and development and are proud supporters of Richland County and its residents.
(Pictured (left) Bruce Todd, President, and (right) Clay Cannon, Vice President, have grown RB Todd Consulting Engineers consistently over the last 13 years.)
For more information contact rbtodd.com
Flock and Rally, LLC
Flock and Rally: Integrated Communications for a Brave New South Flock and Rally is a full-service, women-owned creative agency specializing in NAICS codes 541613 and 541820, which includes branding, public relations, marketing, advertising, social media and event planning services. The company was certified as an Emerging Small Local Business Enterprise (ESLBE) through the Richland County Office of Small Business Opportunity (OSBO) on May 10, 2016, and is located in Columbia, Richland County, Council District 5. Flock and Rally’s mission is to rally the community around great ideas. As a boutique firm, Flock and Rally is able to customize plans to meet each client's needs. Some clients need a new logo, event-based marketing or a simple public relations campaign, while others require a full suite of integrated communications services. Founded in 2010, Flock and Rally specializes in business, nonprofit, education, lifestyle, and tourism projects throughout South Carolina.
For more information contact flockandrally.com
April 2018
ForeSight Communications, LLC
ForeSight Communications, LLC is a full service communications planning and management firm specializing in NAICS code 541810, which including advertising agencies, NAICS code 541820, public relations agencies, and NAIC code 541840, media advertising representative. The company was certified on March 22, 2018, as a Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) through the Office of Small Business Opportunity and is located in Richland County District 4. ForeSight Communications was established in 2005, by owner Courtney Young, President and CEO. Since its inception, the company has represented more than 100 brands including public relations and media advertising for the Hilton Head - Bluffton Chamber of Commerce - 2015 Top Chamber of the Year, Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration- Top 20 Event in Southeastern United States, South Carolina Women’s Business Center - SBA funded minority business development program, Juneteenth Celebration in Mitchelville South Carolina- America’s first self-governed freed man’s town, United States National Parks Service - 2016 National Underground Railroad Conference. The company core competencies are strategy planning, media relations, media buying, brand development, content development, relationship management, event planning, public information and outreach, program development diversity management, VIP client logistics, and training & development. The company also holds professional certifications in Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program, Certified Women Owned Small Business, Minority Business Enterprise, and Certified Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business. Ms. Young proudly continues her family’s legacy as a fourth generation business owner. She is excited about building a partnership with Richland County and the possibilities for providing the County with a full service of communications planning and advertisement. ForeSight Communications provides powerful communication, through strategic innovation.
For more information contact thinkfsc.com
Tranquil Landscape Creations, LLC
Tranquil Landscape Creations, LLC (Tranquil) is a landscape company specializing in NAICS Code 541320 which includes routine lawn maintenance, landscape installation, hardscape installation, sod, shrub, and tree installation. Tranquil Landscape Creations, LLC also provides shrub and tree maintenance; paver, mulch, and pine straw installation; and targeted lawn weed control. In addition, they offer organic and traditional fertilizer as well as organic and traditional lawn maintenance programs. Tranquil Landscape Creations, LLC was established January 8, 2016 by owner Emmanuel Gale, with his dream is to continue to find innovative ways to deliver serves that exceeds beyond the client’s exception. The company was certified on March 14, 2018 as an Emerging Small Local Business Enterprise (ESLBE) through the Office of Small Business Opportunity and is located in Columbia, Richland County Council, District 3. Mr. Gale is excited about building a partnership with Richland County and the possibility of providing the County with landscape architectural services.
For more information contact columbiasc@tranquilcreations.com
March 2018
ENVIRO AgScience, Inc.
ENVIRO AgScience, Inc. (ENVIRO) is a Landscape, Management and Construction Company specializing in NAICS code 236220, which including alteration and renovation for-sale builders, commercial and institutional building and NAICS code 561730, landscape care and maintenance services. The company was certified as a Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) through the Richland County Office of Small Business Opportunity (OSBO) on February 16, 2018, and is located in Columbia, Richland County, District 4. ENVIRO was established in 1985, by owner, Dr. Louis B. Lynn, with his dream of opening up a landscape and construction company, with the vision to become a national professional services organization that performs with integrity, commitment and accountability to employees, clients and the community. The company employs approximately twenty five (25) full-time employees to exhibit pride through professionalism, responsiveness and strong work ethic. ENVIRO’s notable projects include but not limited to both government and private work at Columbia Convention Center, the University of South Carolina Colonial Center, Columbia Main Street Landscape, BMW Manufacturing Plant, Fort Jackson Soldier Support Center, Shaw Air Force Base Fitness Center, Johnson Controls Battery Recycle Plant, City Atlanta, Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport and the Savannah River Nuclear Site. The company’s mission to the customers is to offer world-class construction management, design-build landscaping and consulting services for domestic and international markets, from the perspective that guides to a standard of delivery based on exceeding the customer’s expectations. Dr. Lynn takes pride in “paying his civic rent” by serving on the boards of Clemson University (1988-current), BB&T Corporation (2013-current), the National Urban League (2014-current) and the National Association of Minority Contractors (2013-2017). ENVIRO is excited about the partnership with Richland County and providing exceptional construction management, design-build landscaping and grounds maintenance services that the company brings to every project to ensure the highest quality work and a commitment to addressing issues and meeting the customers’ needs.
For more information contact ENVIRO AgScience Inc.
Armstrong Contractors, LLC
The original Armstrong family construction business was established in 1961, father and owner, David Armstrong. In 1997 the siblings, Michael, Robert, and Thomas Armstrong combined their individual industry skillsets to evolve the family business, currently known as, Armstrong Contractors LLC (Armstrong); were they specialized in asphalt paving and grading. The Armstrong second generation brother’s business philosophy is to provide professionalism, first-rate quality, and teamwork. Armstrong is a Richland County Government certified Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE), specializing in NAICS codes, 237110 and 237310, site preparation, soil stabilization (lime, cement), asphalt paving, striping, and water and sewer line construction; and 238910, demolition, building and structure. The business is located in Richland County, District 7. Armstrong’s site development projects are known for its ninety percent (90%) turnkey services such as; complete site preparation, demolition, asphalt, concrete, hauling, site utilities, soil stabilization, equipment sales, and crushing and recycling services. The current owner, Michael Armstrong and CEO of Armstrong Contractors LLC, believes what separates Armstrong from competitors is, its Green Contractor status; the company’s approach to site development, via its recycling service. Armstrong’s goal is to prevent as much site debris as possible from filling the South Carolina landfills. This service provides customer satisfaction and supports South Carolina beautification initiate. The company’s mission is to provide site preparation services on schedule and within budget. Armstrong has been in business in the Columbia market for over 20 years and they are excited and grateful of the opportunities that Richland County provides, from pre-planning to post-construction, completing the full construction job, Armstrong is committed to delivering each service call with a cleared, clean surface.
For more information contact Armstrong Contractors LLC.
February 2018
Professional Residential & Commercial Services, LLC
Professional Residential & Commercial Services (PRCS), LLC is a locally owned and operated, South Carolina based landscape designing and janitorial company. The company is owned by Wendy “Trina” Jamison and located in Richland County Council District 2. Professional Residential & Commercial Services, Industry Category is nonprofessional, with the NAICS code of 561730. The company became a certified Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) on February 14, 2015 via the Office of Small Business Opportunity (OSBO).
Professional Residential & Commercial Services has a proven track record of successfully completing projects from initial concept through completion. PRCS is High-energy; results-oriented and among their peers they are known to find the most efficient way to facilitate a project or process without sacrificing quality. PRCS is skilled with the ability to manage time-sensitive projects.
Professional Residential Commercial Services are experts at landscape designing, sprinkler installation, landscape installation, low voltage lighting, post construction clean-up, fire clean-up, floor care/stripping and waxing/carpet shampoo, window cleaning, and fencing chain privacy.
Professional Residential & Commercial Services mission is to provide customer satisfaction. As a compliment to the small businesses; PRCS emphasis’ delivery and interpersonal skills, as result promotes customer engagement, one-on-one communication; affirming excellent, timely, and quality service.
Contact Professional Residential & Commercial Services, LLC at catrinajamison@bellsouth.net
Mizzell & Associates, LLC
Mizzell & Associates, LLC is a full-service Marketing (NAICS Code 541613), Public Affairs and Sustainability Solutions Company based in Richland County Council District 6. The company was started in Richland County by Anthony Mizzell in June 2013 and certified as an Emerging Small Local Business Enterprise (ELBE) through the Richland County Office of Small Business Opportunity (OSBO) in August 2014. Mizzell & Associates was intimately involved in working with several Engineering and Construction companies in formulating local business teams and alliances to compete for Richland County Penny Contracts. Anthony Mizzell and his company assisted in recruiting other local minority and ESLBE’s which are part of the Richland County Program Development Team (RCPDT).
Richland County selected Mizzell and Associates as a subcontractor for a four-year contract for the Richland County Dirt Road Program. The company assists in creating a consolidated consent and denial database of property owners who lived or owned property adjacent to a dirt road; prioritized for paving. Mizzell & Associates, LLC was contracted to obtain Right of Way (ROW) Acquisition Titles and Permissions on approximately thirty (30) Dirt Roads throughout rural Richland County. Also Mizzell & Associates, LLC met with hundreds of property owners via mail, telephone, and email;, including owners as far away as Florida, Texas, Wisconsin, Michigan, Washington, DC, New York and even South Korea. Mizzell completed 100% of Titles and Permissions needed to move forward with paving sixteen (16) dirt roads. Mizzell owns a second business, Golf Cars of Columbia an authorized Club Car Golf Cart Sales, Service and Rental provider for the Midlands Area.
Anthony Mizzell is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and resides in Richland County with his wife and their two children. Away from work, Mizzell enjoys watching his children participate in Club and High School Soccer and has the utmost love for the outdoors, including golfing, fishing and boating with the family.
Mizzell & Associates, LLC is a seasoned marketing, sales and business development executive with technology, e-commerce, online marketing experience. The company developed a track record as a top sales producer that utilizing their competitive drive, sales, marketing, and technical expertise to drive positive business results for clients.
Contact Mizzell & Associates, LLC at tony.mizzell@gmail.com
January 2018
Hemphill Engineering Group, LLC
In October of 2015, Evangelina Hemphill decided to take a leap of faith and start her own engineering firm, Hemphill Engineering Group LLC. Hemphill Engineering Group LLC is a CE&I (construction, engineering, and inspections) firm specializing in roadway construction management, asphalt inspections, crack filling, and seal-coating. Hemphill Engineering Group LLC is a certified Emerging (ESLBE), SLBE, DBE, and WMBE firm with a primary NAICS code of 541330. This firm meets and qualification as an Emerging Small Local Business Enterprise (ESLBE) as well as meets all of the qualifications of the Small Local Business Enterprise. Hemphill Engineering Group LLC is located in Richland County Council District 9. The Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Hemphill Engineering Group LLC Company is Evangeline Hemphill. Mrs. Hemphill launched her company as the owner and sole employee. The firm now employs full-time employees with backgrounds in engineering, IT, and biology who believe in and support the company’s vision and mission. Mrs. Hemphill is passionate about building her company's legacy which values all employees and values every opportunity to serve their clients.
Hemphill Engineering Group LLC looks forward to working with Richland County and other companies to continue to boost economic development through awarded contracts and creating jobs all while uniquely help make our Richland County urban and rural areas a great place to live and work. Hemphill Engineering Group LLC is located at 533 Clemson Road, Columbia, SC 29229.
To learn more about Hemphill Engineering Group LLC, visit www.HEG-USA.com.
The Tolleson Limited Company
In 2014 The Tolleson Limited Company became one of the first Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) firms in Richland County specializing in professional engineering services. The Company is located in Richland County Council District 5, Columbia, SC and has provided engineering and construction services in Richland County and throughout the State of SC for more than twenty years. Tolleson Limited was selected for the Program Management Team and the Dirt Road Program Teams under the Richland Penny Transportation program. The Company developed and issued the Countywide Pavement Management System (PMS) covering more than 550 miles of roadway in Richland County. The PMS is used in managing the $40 Million resurfacing fund for neighborhood roadways throughout the County. Our personnel have completed roadway widening concept plans for Blythewood and Clemson Roads and we have tested and designed flexible pavement overlays for Shop Road, Bluff Road, Clemson Road, Broad River Road and others. We have expanded into Construction Quality Control and have designed low-volume dirt roads in rural areas of the County. The Tolleson Limited Company recently expanded its core services into heavy construction. We are the only Richland County SLBE licensed in both professional engineering and general roadway construction.
The Company President, Andy Tolleson, PE, is from the lower Richland area and has resided in Columbia, SC most of his life. Our staff are educated at the graduate and PhD levels and hold Professional Engineering, Professional Surveying and General Contractor Licenses. We have worked in eight countries on three continents and have presented at international conferences in the areas of geosynthetics, international law and pavement condition systems. We are proud to be located in Richland County, SC and to serve on the Richland Penny Transportation Program.
At The Tolleson Limited Company we are proud to serve our community and we owe our growth and success to opportunities provided by the Office of Small Business Opportunities (OSBO), the County and the citizens it serves.
To learn more about The Tolleson Limited Company, visit www.tollesonltd.com