By Betsy Finklea
The DCP3 and Dillon County held a reception and luncheon in honor of the new CEO of the South Carolina Ports Authority Micah Mallace at Brownstone Venue on Haymount Road on Thursday, July 2nd.
According to an announcement from the SCPA at the time of his appointment, Mallace has had “a long and distinguished career in the maritime and logistics industry, including a previous tenure with SC Ports from 2011-2022 where he served in various roles before being named Chief Commercial Officer. Mallace facilitated numerous commercial successes. Prior to his appointment as President and CEO, Mallace served as President of Harbor Logistics, a third-party logistics company specializing in port drayage, warehousing, and transload operations. He is a Charleston native and is married with three children.”
At the luncheon, Pastor Matt Adams gave the invocation. Joey Williams of VFW Post 6091 led the pledge of allegiance. During the welcome, Dillon County Economic Development Director Rodney Berry recognized local elected officials, industry partner, utility providers, medical leadership, and many other people of importance who were in attendance. A large part of the Pee Dee Region was represented at the meeting.
Terance Anderson of Harbor Freight Tools talked about the strong relationship that Harbor Freight has built with the inland port. He said it impacts the growth of business here. He said he is excited to see continued growth in the area.
Celia Urquart from Senator Lindsey Graham’s office read a letter from Senator Graham, and A.D. Jordan from Senator Tim Scott’s Office wished them much success.
Jeff McKay from NESA said that the Port was a key economic engine for this state. He said that Micah Mallace was a good man and “the right man at the right time in the right job.” He said they have a great team at Dillon Inland Port. “Thank you for what you have done at this point, and thank you in advance for what you are going to do for this region,” McKay said.
Rodney Berry then made a presentation from Congressman Russell Fry’s office. He presented Mallace with a flag flow on June 1st over the Capitol.
Senator Kent Williams said the port has been a “true blessing to the Pee Dee Region.” He said industry has located in the area just because of proximity to the inland port.
Representative Jackie Hayes said they appreciate the Dillon Inland Port. He presented a flag flown over the statehouse in honor of the Port.
Mayor Tally McColl said they are celebrating the opportunity that the inland port brings. He presented a key to the City of Dillon to Mallace.
Dillon County Council Chairman Dennis Townsend introduced Mallace prior to his remarks. He presented Mallace with a Dillon County flag.
Mallace spoke about the growth and success of the port. He said it is humbling to work in this region because “you care so much.” He said they carry the weight of economic growth. He said the incredible welcome here inspires them to work harder for a grander vision of the future. He said the port has brought South Carolina a global image. He explained that the port is a for-profit business, but also a state entity. He said the state helps them shoulder projects that they cannot shoulder alone. he said the Ports Authority drives economic growth in this state year after year and the team is proud to serve and drive growth. He said they have re-committed themselves to above market growth over the next few years. He said they are also reallocating dollars to get a flow of cash to pursue projects. He thanked Harbor Freight Tools and said without Harbor Freight as the anchor, they would not have been here. HE said they are especially appreciative of their relationship with Harbor Freight Tools. He said it is clear that development follows infrastructure. He thanked everyone for being open to growth.
After the remarks by Mallace, Pastor Rob Pierce gave the benediction and the meeting was adjourned.
PHOTO LIBRARY
PHOTOS BY JOHNNIE DANIELS AND BETSY FINKLEA/THE DILLON COUNTY NEWS, LLC
