The Community Times Dispatch

COLUMBIA, S.C. – January 27, 2010 – Charles Bridges was honored yesterday as an Ambassador for Economic Development by the Department of Commerce and legislative leaders as part of South Carolina’s 19th Annual Industry Appreciation Week.  The ceremony took place in Columbia on Tuesday, January 26 at the Statehouse and highlighted 48 individuals from 46 counties for their exceptional efforts to bolster community and economic development activities in South Carolina.

“While improving our South Carolina’s business climate and developing a skilled workforce have been priorities for our administration, these efforts alone are not enough. The help and efforts of community and business leaders in every corner of the state are critically important and today we say thank to these ambassadors for economic development for their efforts to create jobs and economic opportunity in South Carolina,” said Gov. Mark Sanford.

Charles Bridges is actively involved with the growth of Colleton County through his work with the Colleton County Economic Alliance. Mr. Bridges has worked with the Alliance over the past six years to help the county better meet the needs of prospective businesses. Mr. Bridges always makes the effort to provide supporting documents and a wealth of information on county property to help in recruiting businesses. In addition to such documents, he also works to provide personal knowledge and advice to highlight the benefits of moving to or locating in Colleton County. Also active in the community, Mr. Bridges is a member of the Colleton County Historical and Preservation Board, Lions Club, Colleton County Board of Realtors, Friends of the Artisans Center and Colleton County Arts Council.

“Our state’s existing businesses are one of our most valuable economic development tools,” House Speaker Bobby Harrell said.  “Job creation and industry promotion begins on the ground level and is handled mostly in the private sector by these business leaders.  I’d like to thank all our Ambassadors for Economic Development for their effective leadership and for proving that our best resources lie not in the hands of government but reside in the private sector.”

“Businesses small and large have contributed greatly to South Carolina’s economy with investments, job creation and community involvement.  This is a week to recognize the contributions of businesses and community leaders for their continued commitment to growing economic opportunity in South Carolina. These ambassadors have dedicated their energy and gone the extra mile to enhance our communities and make South Carolina a better place to live and work. We congratulate each ambassador and thank them for their efforts,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

Each year the Department of Commerce joins local communities to thank businesses for their vital contributions to South Carolina’s economy.  The Department of Commerce kicks off Industry Appreciation Week each year by recognizing individuals throughout South Carolina as Ambassadors for Economic Development.  These individuals include local leaders from the private sector representing a variety of businesses and economic development organizations committed to securing new jobs and investment in their communities.