Aiken welcome 2015

REAL.

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H E A LT H C A R E .

When you’re healthy, we’re happy.

At Aiken Regional Medical Centers, the people we care for are more than our patients. They’re also our friends and neighbors. It’s the reason we work so hard to provide top-rated care in cardiovascular, oncology, orthopedic, radiology and women’s health — with a team of experienced, compassionate physicians and nurses who are truly invested in the well-being of our patients and their families. At Aiken Regional, we recognize that by providing quality healthcare to our patients and support to our neighbors, we’re enriching the lives and future of our community. And when the community thrives, we all benefit.

Want to know more?

REAL.

3HUVRQDO

Get to know the Family.

Aiken Regional page.

Just open the

H E A LT H

CARE.

Get a free brochure with our complete list of services, specialties and wellness programs.

Call 803-641-5926 or visit www.aikenregional.com.

302 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801 803-641-5000

Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers.

The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. 141854

Welcome Aiken FC gatefold.indd 1

See inside for a full listing of physicians and services.

12/2/14 10:49 AM

REAL.

3HUVRQDO

H E A LT H C A R E .

When you’re healthy, we’re happy.

At Aiken Regional Medical Centers, the people we care for are more than our patients. They’re also our friends and neighbors. It’s the reason we work so hard to provide top-rated care in cardiovascular, oncology, orthopedic, radiology and women’s health — with a team of experienced, compassionate physicians and nurses who are truly invested in the well-being of our patients and their families. At Aiken Regional, we recognize that by providing quality healthcare to our patients and support to our neighbors, we’re enriching the lives and future of our community. And when the community thrives, we all benefit.

Want to know more?

REAL.

3HUVRQDO

Get to know the Family.

Aiken Regional page.

Just open the

H E A LT H

CARE.

Get a free brochure with our complete list of services, specialties and wellness programs.

Call 803-641-5926 or visit www.aikenregional.com.

302 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801 803-641-5000

Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers.

The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. 141854

Welcome Aiken FC gatefold.indd 1

See inside for a full listing of physicians and services.

12/2/14 10:49 AM

REAL.

3HUVRQDO

FIND A PHYSICIAN: AT-A-GLANCE GUIDE BY SPECIALTY

H E A LT H C A R E .

Leading the way to better health At Aiken Regional Medical Centers, we know that when you choose a hospital, you want one that offers all the care you and your family need ... in one comfortable, convenient location that’s close to home.

When you need urgent care, our 24-hour Emergency Department is ready with 100 percent board-certified emergency medicine physicians. And we’ve got you covered with these comprehensive services:

Aurora Pavilion Behavioral Health Services

641-5900

Bariatric Services

641-5751

Cancer Care Institute of Carolina

641-7850

Cardiovascular Institute of Carolina

641-5280

Diabetes & Nutrition Teaching Center

293-0023

Joint and Spine Center

641-5470

Palmetto Pediatrics

641-KIDS

Sleep Evaluation Center

641-5370

Southside Imaging Center

502-5020

The Neuroscience Center

226-0130

— Women Enlightened for Better Health

641-5893

Women’s LifeCare Center

641-5800

Women’s LifeCare Diagnostic Services

641-5065

Wound Healing Institute of Carolina

643-2090

The Vein Center

641-5544

Find a Doctor.

To find a physician, call our free Direct Doctors Plus physician referral service at 1-800-882-7445.

Get to know us online.

Visit us at www.aikenregional.com to sign up for our health and wellness newsletter Quality of Life, request a free brochure and see a schedule of community health events and more.

Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers.

The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. 141854

Welcome Aiken FC gatefold.indd 2

Allergy Matthew T. Clark, MD 803-279-7666 Gregory H. Esselman, MD 803-649-0003 Anthony E. Harris, MD 803-648-7897

Gastroenterology Ayaz Chaudhary, MD 803-226-0073 David S. Keisler Jr., MD 803-648-7888 Afsar M. Waraich, MD 803-649-4699

Bariatric Surgery Brian Lane, MD 803-641-5751 Sean Lee, MD 803-641-5751

Hematology Sitki M. Ergul, MD 803-641-7850 T. Mark Meyer, MD 803-648-7888

Cardiac Surgery Thomas P. Paxton, MD 803-641-4874 L. Dieter Voegele, MD 803-641-4874

Infectious Diseases Gerald Gordon, MD 803-649-5300

Cardiology Ansermo L. Arthur, MD 803-641-4874 David W. Cundey, MD 803-641-4874 Gregory L. Eaves, MD 803-641-4874 Weems R. Pennington III, MD 803-641-4874 Idris S. Sharaf, MD 803-641-4874 Colon and Rectal Surgery David H. Gibbs, MD 803-648-1171 Edward J. Jakubs Jr., MD 803-648-1171 Virginia B. Winburn, MD 803-648-1171 Dermatology Richard S. Chesser, MD 803-641-0049 John R. Cook, MD 803-644-8900 Margaret H. Fitch, MD 803-649-3909 Endocrinology R. Bauer Vaughters, MD 803-648-3130 Family Practice James L. Bland, MD, JD 803-641-1404 Adam Bruckner, DO 803-649-7266 Mae Jean Englee, MD 803-663-9224 Dean T. Koukos, DO 803-259-5762 Ann M. Kulik, MD 803-648-8804 Leopoldo M. Muniz, MD 803-642-3505 Howard G. Royal Jr., MD 803-649-6941 Henry S. Tam, MD 803-648-4224 F. Michael Vasovski, DO 803-649-4446 Ray B. Vaughters Jr., MD 803-649-2501David Zimmerman, MD 803-649-6941

Internal Medicine William T. Besson III, MD 803-648-7888 Marc H. Brickman, DO 803-648-7774 Alyssa Degnan, DO 803-649-5300 Gerald Gordon, MD 803-649-5300 Asif Hashmi, MD 803-644-1027 David S. Keisler Jr., MD 803-648-7888 Thomas McCullough, MD 803-648-7888 T. Mark Meyer, MD 803-648-7888 Frank J. Mondschein, MD 803-649-5300 Sidney Rhoades, MD 803-226-0739 Ashley E. Toole, DO 803-649-5300 Randy D. Watson, MD 803-648-7818 Danijela S. Zotovic, MD, Ph.D. 803-648-7888 Nephrology Sindhu Garg, MD 803-648-0718 Douglas A. Stahura, DO 803-648-0718 Neurology Richard A. Eisenberg, MD 803-642-6500 Melvyn L. Haas, MD 803-642-6500 Khaled F. Kamel, MD 803-642-6500 Michelle Lyon, MD 803-644-4264 Gregory J. Sengstock, MD 803-226-0130 Neurosurgery James D. Dillon, MD 803-226-0130 Nurse Practitioner Kristy Haddock, FNP 803-648-7774

Obstetrics/Gynecology Cindy G. Besson, MD (Gynecology only) 803-648-0803 James F. Boehner, MD 803-649-7535 Robert D. Boone, MD 803-649-7535 Gasnel E. Bryan, MD 803-648-0874 Lloyd B. Daniels, MD 803-649-4117 Tiffany Goldsmith, MD 803-649-4117 Judith L.B. Hoover, MD 803-649-7746 Jessica Keller, DO 803-649-7535 Oletha R. Minto, MD 803-649-7535 Oncology Sitki M. Ergul, MD 803-641-7850 Ahmad N. Gill, MD 803-641-7850 T. Mark Meyer, MD 803-648-7888 Stephen Shlaer, MD 803-226-0104 Donald Townsend, MD 803-226-0104 Ophthalmology R. Lee Grantham, MD 803-642-1000 Nini S. Patheja, MD 803-642-6060 Daniel J. Smith, MD 803-642-6060 Enoch N. Tsai, MD 803-649-7991 Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery David S. Hudson, DMD 803-649-1177 Orthopedic Surgery Ty W. Carter, MD 803-644-4264 Douglas E. Holford, MD 803-644-4264 R. Vaughan Massie, MD 803-644-4264 Clark Moore, MD 803-644-4264 Timothy J. Shannon, MD 803-644-4264 Otolaryngology Gregory H. Esselman, MD 803-649-0003 Anthony E. Harris, MD 803-648-7897 Patrick G. McMenamin, MD 803-649-0003 Pain Management Russell K. Daniel, MD 803-644-4264 William E. Durrett Jr., MD 803-642-6500

Pediatrics Saira Alimohamed, MD 803-641-KIDS (5437) Jonathan C. Collins, MD 803-642-9204 Shalini Khurana, MD 803-641-KIDS (5437) Jose A. Luis, MD 803-648-4744 Paula A. Luther, MD 803-642-9204 Edward Rigtrup, MD 803-641-KIDS (5437) Ronald Rimmer, MD 803-641-KIDS (5437) John B. Tiffany, MD 803-508-7651 Plastic/ Reconstructive Surgery Dean A. Page, MD 803-642-0277 Podiatry George Sich III, DPM 803-648-6988 Mackie J. Walker, DPM 803-644-4264 Psychiatry John A. Allen, MD 803-642-3801 Merry A. DeLeon, MD 803-641-5906 John Dewitt, MD 803-642-3801 Jaya Merugu, MD 803-641-5906 David A. Steiner, MD 803-642-3801 Pulmonology/ Critical Care Frank J. Mondschein, MD 803-649-5300 Nicholas J. Sanito, DO 803-643-1090 Miroslav B. Zotovic, MD 803-643-1090 Radiation Oncology Byron Dasher, MD 803-641-7850 Mark P. Ezekiel, MD 803-641-7850 Jed Howington, MD 803-641-7850 Jerry Howington, MD 803-641-7850 John Stewart, MD 803-641-7850

Urology Jonathan H. Anderson, MD 803-649-3903 Richard P. von Buedingen, MD 803-648-7815 Wound Care/ HBO Therapy James L. Hagan, MD 803-643-2090 Jack L. Ratliff, MD 803-643-2090

Hospital-Based Physicians Anesthesiology Emily Ashford, MD Robert P. Cassingham, MD Kevin Graham, DO Benjamin S. Ulmer Jr., MD

Emergency Medicine Michelle Bens, MD Anthony Bostick, MD Thomas Brewer, MD Cortney Draper, MD Charles Eaves, DO Suzanne Echemendia, MD Aaron Garrett, DO Aaron High, MD Yenney Meza, MD Nathan Miller, MD Christina Millhouse, MD James Mock, MD Nicole Nadel, DO Adam Nofziger, MD

Hospitalist Itai Mupanduki, MD Chioma V. Udogu, MD Robert Walker, MD

Industry Health W. Gaines Entrekin, MD

Occupational Medicine Don L. Pennington, MD

Pathology Alan D. Pierce, MD Trent D. Trzpuc, MD Robert L. Williams, MD

Radiology Alfonso Gay, MD Ronald P. Robinson, MD Robert F. Searles, DO Anthony L. Toomer, MD

Surgery Frank Y. Chase, MD 803-648-1318 Wayne T. Frei, MD 803-648-1318 Robert C. Terry, MD 803-648-1318

Teleneurology

Thoracic/Vascular Surgery Thomas P. Paxton, MD 803-641-4874 L. Dieter Voegele, MD 803-641-4874

Hartmut Gross, MD

Askiel Bruno, MD David C. Hess, MD Fenwick Nichols, MD Jerry Pruitt, MD Jeffrey A. Switzer, DO

Telestroke

12/2/14 10:49 AM

REAL.

3HUVRQDO

FIND A PHYSICIAN: AT-A-GLANCE GUIDE BY SPECIALTY

H E A LT H C A R E .

Leading the way to better health At Aiken Regional Medical Centers, we know that when you choose a hospital, you want one that offers all the care you and your family need ... in one comfortable, convenient location that’s close to home.

When you need urgent care, our 24-hour Emergency Department is ready with 100 percent board-certified emergency medicine physicians. And we’ve got you covered with these comprehensive services:

Aurora Pavilion Behavioral Health Services

641-5900

Bariatric Services

641-5751

Cancer Care Institute of Carolina

641-7850

Cardiovascular Institute of Carolina

641-5280

Diabetes & Nutrition Teaching Center

293-0023

Joint and Spine Center

641-5470

Palmetto Pediatrics

641-KIDS

Sleep Evaluation Center

641-5370

Southside Imaging Center

502-5020

The Neuroscience Center

226-0130

— Women Enlightened for Better Health

641-5893

Women’s LifeCare Center

641-5800

Women’s LifeCare Diagnostic Services

641-5065

Wound Healing Institute of Carolina

643-2090

The Vein Center

641-5544

Find a Doctor.

To find a physician, call our free Direct Doctors Plus physician referral service at 1-800-882-7445.

Get to know us online.

Visit us at www.aikenregional.com to sign up for our health and wellness newsletter Quality of Life, request a free brochure and see a schedule of community health events and more.

Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers.

The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. 141854

Welcome Aiken FC gatefold.indd 2

Allergy Matthew T. Clark, MD 803-279-7666 Gregory H. Esselman, MD 803-649-0003 Anthony E. Harris, MD 803-648-7897

Gastroenterology Ayaz Chaudhary, MD 803-226-0073 David S. Keisler Jr., MD 803-648-7888 Afsar M. Waraich, MD 803-649-4699

Bariatric Surgery Brian Lane, MD 803-641-5751 Sean Lee, MD 803-641-5751

Hematology Sitki M. Ergul, MD 803-641-7850 T. Mark Meyer, MD 803-648-7888

Cardiac Surgery Thomas P. Paxton, MD 803-641-4874 L. Dieter Voegele, MD 803-641-4874

Infectious Diseases Gerald Gordon, MD 803-649-5300

Cardiology Ansermo L. Arthur, MD 803-641-4874 David W. Cundey, MD 803-641-4874 Gregory L. Eaves, MD 803-641-4874 Weems R. Pennington III, MD 803-641-4874 Idris S. Sharaf, MD 803-641-4874 Colon and Rectal Surgery David H. Gibbs, MD 803-648-1171 Edward J. Jakubs Jr., MD 803-648-1171 Virginia B. Winburn, MD 803-648-1171 Dermatology Richard S. Chesser, MD 803-641-0049 John R. Cook, MD 803-644-8900 Margaret H. Fitch, MD 803-649-3909 Endocrinology R. Bauer Vaughters, MD 803-648-3130 Family Practice James L. Bland, MD, JD 803-641-1404 Adam Bruckner, DO 803-649-7266 Mae Jean Englee, MD 803-663-9224 Dean T. Koukos, DO 803-259-5762 Ann M. Kulik, MD 803-648-8804 Leopoldo M. Muniz, MD 803-642-3505 Howard G. Royal Jr., MD 803-649-6941 Henry S. Tam, MD 803-648-4224 F. Michael Vasovski, DO 803-649-4446 Ray B. Vaughters Jr., MD 803-649-2501David Zimmerman, MD 803-649-6941

Internal Medicine William T. Besson III, MD 803-648-7888 Marc H. Brickman, DO 803-648-7774 Alyssa Degnan, DO 803-649-5300 Gerald Gordon, MD 803-649-5300 Asif Hashmi, MD 803-644-1027 David S. Keisler Jr., MD 803-648-7888 Thomas McCullough, MD 803-648-7888 T. Mark Meyer, MD 803-648-7888 Frank J. Mondschein, MD 803-649-5300 Sidney Rhoades, MD 803-226-0739 Ashley E. Toole, DO 803-649-5300 Randy D. Watson, MD 803-648-7818 Danijela S. Zotovic, MD, Ph.D. 803-648-7888 Nephrology Sindhu Garg, MD 803-648-0718 Douglas A. Stahura, DO 803-648-0718 Neurology Richard A. Eisenberg, MD 803-642-6500 Melvyn L. Haas, MD 803-642-6500 Khaled F. Kamel, MD 803-642-6500 Michelle Lyon, MD 803-644-4264 Gregory J. Sengstock, MD 803-226-0130 Neurosurgery James D. Dillon, MD 803-226-0130 Nurse Practitioner Kristy Haddock, FNP 803-648-7774

Obstetrics/Gynecology Cindy G. Besson, MD (Gynecology only) 803-648-0803 James F. Boehner, MD 803-649-7535 Robert D. Boone, MD 803-649-7535 Gasnel E. Bryan, MD 803-648-0874 Lloyd B. Daniels, MD 803-649-4117 Tiffany Goldsmith, MD 803-649-4117 Judith L.B. Hoover, MD 803-649-7746 Jessica Keller, DO 803-649-7535 Oletha R. Minto, MD 803-649-7535 Oncology Sitki M. Ergul, MD 803-641-7850 Ahmad N. Gill, MD 803-641-7850 T. Mark Meyer, MD 803-648-7888 Stephen Shlaer, MD 803-226-0104 Donald Townsend, MD 803-226-0104 Ophthalmology R. Lee Grantham, MD 803-642-1000 Nini S. Patheja, MD 803-642-6060 Daniel J. Smith, MD 803-642-6060 Enoch N. Tsai, MD 803-649-7991 Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery David S. Hudson, DMD 803-649-1177 Orthopedic Surgery Ty W. Carter, MD 803-644-4264 Douglas E. Holford, MD 803-644-4264 R. Vaughan Massie, MD 803-644-4264 Clark Moore, MD 803-644-4264 Timothy J. Shannon, MD 803-644-4264 Otolaryngology Gregory H. Esselman, MD 803-649-0003 Anthony E. Harris, MD 803-648-7897 Patrick G. McMenamin, MD 803-649-0003 Pain Management Russell K. Daniel, MD 803-644-4264 William E. Durrett Jr., MD 803-642-6500

Pediatrics Saira Alimohamed, MD 803-641-KIDS (5437) Jonathan C. Collins, MD 803-642-9204 Shalini Khurana, MD 803-641-KIDS (5437) Jose A. Luis, MD 803-648-4744 Paula A. Luther, MD 803-642-9204 Edward Rigtrup, MD 803-641-KIDS (5437) Ronald Rimmer, MD 803-641-KIDS (5437) John B. Tiffany, MD 803-508-7651 Plastic/ Reconstructive Surgery Dean A. Page, MD 803-642-0277 Podiatry George Sich III, DPM 803-648-6988 Mackie J. Walker, DPM 803-644-4264 Psychiatry John A. Allen, MD 803-642-3801 Merry A. DeLeon, MD 803-641-5906 John Dewitt, MD 803-642-3801 Jaya Merugu, MD 803-641-5906 David A. Steiner, MD 803-642-3801 Pulmonology/ Critical Care Frank J. Mondschein, MD 803-649-5300 Nicholas J. Sanito, DO 803-643-1090 Miroslav B. Zotovic, MD 803-643-1090 Radiation Oncology Byron Dasher, MD 803-641-7850 Mark P. Ezekiel, MD 803-641-7850 Jed Howington, MD 803-641-7850 Jerry Howington, MD 803-641-7850 John Stewart, MD 803-641-7850

Urology Jonathan H. Anderson, MD 803-649-3903 Richard P. von Buedingen, MD 803-648-7815 Wound Care/ HBO Therapy James L. Hagan, MD 803-643-2090 Jack L. Ratliff, MD 803-643-2090

Hospital-Based Physicians Anesthesiology Emily Ashford, MD Robert P. Cassingham, MD Kevin Graham, DO Benjamin S. Ulmer Jr., MD

Emergency Medicine Michelle Bens, MD Anthony Bostick, MD Thomas Brewer, MD Cortney Draper, MD Charles Eaves, DO Suzanne Echemendia, MD Aaron Garrett, DO Aaron High, MD Yenney Meza, MD Nathan Miller, MD Christina Millhouse, MD James Mock, MD Nicole Nadel, DO Adam Nofziger, MD

Hospitalist Itai Mupanduki, MD Chioma V. Udogu, MD Robert Walker, MD

Industry Health W. Gaines Entrekin, MD

Occupational Medicine Don L. Pennington, MD

Pathology Alan D. Pierce, MD Trent D. Trzpuc, MD Robert L. Williams, MD

Radiology Alfonso Gay, MD Ronald P. Robinson, MD Robert F. Searles, DO Anthony L. Toomer, MD

Surgery Frank Y. Chase, MD 803-648-1318 Wayne T. Frei, MD 803-648-1318 Robert C. Terry, MD 803-648-1318

Teleneurology

Thoracic/Vascular Surgery Thomas P. Paxton, MD 803-641-4874 L. Dieter Voegele, MD 803-641-4874

Hartmut Gross, MD

Askiel Bruno, MD David C. Hess, MD Fenwick Nichols, MD Jerry Pruitt, MD Jeffrey A. Switzer, DO

Telestroke

12/2/14 10:49 AM

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Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 1

12/2/14 10:57 AM

AN EVENT & PARTY PLANNING BOUTIQUE & INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM

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www.macandcompany.com

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Copyright 2015 by the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieve system, without the express written permission of the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce.

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#GreenerAiken 803.644.6004 | dumpsterdepotllc.com

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Contents FEATURES

16 When Aiken puts its mind to

something, anything can happen The Aiken community has long been known for stepping up when a need arises.

19

21

22

23

PRESERVING AIKEN’S HERITAGE

PUTTING KNOWLEDGE TO WORK

FOSTERING ENTREPRENUERSHIP

CARING FOR OUR FURRY FRIENDS

By Doug Rabold

By John Boyette

By John Boyette

By Doug Rabold

DEPAR TMENTS 34 Housing Options

54 Education

38 Quality of Life

58 Retirement

44 Health Care

60 Relocation Information

48 Economy & Employment

65 Business

25 Corporate Profiles

Resource Guide

ON THE COVER From the 1950s, when the E. I. DuPont de Nemours & Company managed the Savannah River Plant for the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission, to the present, Aiken has faithfully responded to many diverse needs of the community. Citizens wholeheartedly embrace working together to make a difference in quality of life, economic vitality, and historic preservation initiatives. Read the story beginning on page 16.

Left hand B&W photo – Savannah River Site Photo Archives, other B&W is stock photo.

Pet photo courtesy of the Friends of the Animal Shelter Groundbreaking photo courtesy of Aiken Technical College

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Aiken ANYTHING can happen.

When puts its mind to something,

The Aiken community has long been known for stepping up when a need arises. Whether it has to do with enhancing quality of life, preserving and celebrating heritage, or advancing economic well-being, the community embraces the idea of working together to make a difference. Public and private partnerships have led to new programs and facilities that have moved the community forward through the years. Today, the partnership wave continues with the Aiken Together campaign, Putting Knowledge to Work campaign, The Mill on Park, and new modern animal shelters. please recycle this publication 16 We lc ome - AIK E N Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 16

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photo courtesy: Savannah River Site Photo Archives

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photo by John Brecht

photos courtesy: “Aiken Together” campaign

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Preserving Aiken’s Heritage

By John Boyette

A

t first blush, the Savannah River Site, a railroad depot and Aiken’s African-American heritage don’t seem to have much in common.

But dig a little deeper, and you’ll see that history is the common bond. All three were important in their own unique way to shaping present day Aiken and its surrounding communities.

Three separate preservation projects were in the works for years, but now they have joined forces as Aiken Together for a $2.9 million capital campaign that will complete the Center for African American Arts, History and Culture; the Savannah River Site Heritage Center; and the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum.

“We had three community projects going on, and they had been going on for some time,” says Tim Simmons, president of the Aiken Railroad Depot committee. “All three were at different levels of completion. Rather than continue to work separately, we thought it might be more efficient to work together in a campaign called Aiken Together.”

The early stages of the five-year project have gone well, with about $380,000 raised in the first 10 months.

It’s unusual for two fund-raising projects to work together, let alone three, according to Simmons.

“I guess it’s unique. It’s the first I’ve ever heard of being done,” he says. “But it makes sense because local businesses that would be supporting projects like this can make one contribution and affect three local projects.”

The Center for African American Arts, History and Culture will receive 41 percent of the funding.

Located in the former Immanuel Institute at the corner of York Street and Richland Avenue in downtown Aiken, the center will feature murals and interactive exhibits that will document the journey of African-Americans from Africa to their arrival at the South Carolina coast on slave ships to present day Aiken.

The former school for children of freed slaves will serve as an educational center for students and visitors alike. Another goal is to have space dedicated for genealogical work and family reunions.

“Genealogy is such a large part of it,” says Jo-Anne Saunders, executive director for the African American center. “Visitors can actually come and trace their roots regardless of their descent.”

The Savannah River Site Heritage Center, which will get 31 percent of the money, will be located in the Old Dibble Memorial Library on Laurens Street.

With about 30,000 artifacts to choose from, the heritage center will include photographs, exhibits and plenty of information on

how the nuclear facility helped the United States win the Cold War. “They are at the point now they need to get the facility opened in downtown Aiken,” Simmons says. “It would be much more accessible than for someone driving all the way to the Savannah River Site to see the artifacts.”

Other goals for the heritage center include recognizing the sacrifices of the people and towns displaced when the plant was built in the early 1950s, and to excite future generations about science and technology.

The Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum opened in 2010 but is not yet complete. Twenty-eight percent of the campaign is earmarked to build a replica baggage facility that will serve as a caterer’s kitchen, restore the interiors of two Pullman cars, and refurbish a caboose.

“It’s doing its job of bringing people to Aiken,” says Simmons, who noted that more than 35,000 people have visited the facility.

The Train Museum is located on the second floor of the replica of Aiken’s original railroad depot. It features nine dioramas that show the towns located along the original route of the South Carolina Canal and Railroad Company.

Carol Johnson, president and CEO of Savannah River Nuclear Solutions and chair of Aiken Together, says the projects “changed the face of Aiken and helped to make the city what it is today.”

“Each project has a unique story to tell that describes Aiken’s rich and incredible history,” she says. “The funds raised from the campaign will help to complete these worthwhile projects and preserve their stories for generations to come.”

Education is at the core of all three projects. Teachers are already using the train museum in their lesson plans.

“It tells where we’ve been and where we might want to go in the future,” Simmons says.

Other benefits for the three museums are volunteerism and recreation.

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photos courtesy: Aiken Technical College

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Putting Knowledge to Work

By Doug Rabold

F

uture careers, economic development, and advanced facilities are in heavy construction mode at Aiken Technical College (ATC). Thanks to a massive community effort, a new state-of-the-art educational facility will open in fall 2015.

The 36,000-square-foot Center for Energy and Advanced Manufacturing will feature cutting edge industry quality equipment in bay laboratories and classrooms. It also will house multipurpose training space, faculty offices, and amenities for community gatherings. Its versatile space design will help to ensure the building is adaptable for evolving and emerging training needs for many years. At $8.5 million, it is the first new building project on the ATC campus since 2003.

Numerous community partners were instrumental in helping ATC raise the $2 million matching funds required for the center. Contributors to the “Putting Knowledge to Work” capital campaign, developed by the ATC Foundation, represented longtime and new supporters from a variety of industries, including nuclear, manufacturing, health care and more, as well as civic organizations and private donors.

Former chair of the ATC Foundation Board of Trustees, John Stewart, says, “The Center is a facility, along with the talent of ATC’s faculty and staff, that can help meet local industry needs and attract new companies to our area.” Stewart is the former plant manager of the local Bridgestone tire plant; he was appointed plant manager for the company’s operations in Warren County, Tennessee, last July.

“The Center for Energy and Advanced Manufacturing is designed to be a focal point for the economic revitalization occurring in our county,” says ATC President Dr. Susan Winsor.

“The facility will reflect our community’s commitment to bring high paying careers to our area, and to ensure that the workforce available for local business is of the highest caliber.”

Programs that will be supported in the new center are mechatronics, welding, radiation protection technology, nuclear quality systems, and alternative energy. The facility will complement ATC’s Manufacturing and Technology Training Center nearby. Both facilities and related programs are crucial to supporting the area’s growing workforce needs.

Major funding for the Center for Energy and Advanced Manufacturing came from a $2.445 million allocation from the State of South Carolina, and a $2.6 million grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, which required the $2 million match.

Breaking ground for the Center for Energy and Advanced Manufacturing marked a milestone achievement for the community. The South Carolina Army National Guard completed the site work, which provided a training exercise for the National Guard and a cost savings for the college. At the celebratory and ceremonial groundbreaking last July, ATC recognized retiring South Carolina Representative Roland Smith, Warrenville, and

former South Carolina Senator Greg Ryberg, Aiken, for their advocacy for the college.

The ATC Foundation’s capital campaign was co-chaired by Fred Humes, director emeritus of the Aiken-Edgefield Economic Development Partnership, and the Honorable Andrew Siders, Aiken County Councilman.

Humes has been involved in economic development for many years; he understands the potential impact the new Center for Energy and Advanced Manufacturing will have. “Those who follow us for decades to come will praise the investment we have made in our children, our workforce, and our community.”

ATC has emerged as a powerful educational and economic force in the area in just 42 years. Beginning with an enrollment of 177 students in 1972, the college since has served over 290,000 students. The college offers two-year college credit, non-credit and transfer programs in health sciences, business, public service, education, manufacturing, engineering, nuclear, and computer technology.

Recent growth on ATC’s campus has included construction of the Information Technology Center in 2000, the Manufacturing and Technology Training Center in 2001, and the Health and Sciences Building in 2003. In 2013, the Enrollment Services Center was created to consolidate student services in nearly 6,100 square feet of renovated space in the Administration Building.

Fostering Entreprenuership

By Doug Rabold

T

he Mill on Park is an exciting, new facility in downtown Aiken that demonstrates beneficial reuse, stimulates economic vitality, expands educational opportunities, and enhances quality of life. Promoted as an office community, the Mill offers one-room and multi-room spaces available for lease. It is designed to attract and foster startups, entrepreneurship, and smaller established companies.

The idea of a central location where entrepreneurs could rent space and potentially grow was the brainchild of young professional Catie Rabun, who partnered with her father David Sacks, a local entrepreneur, to form a startup company, Caradasa LLC. Rabun serves as president of the business venture.

Rabun worked on her concept with business consultant Laura DiSano, Small Business Development Center (SBDC), University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA). Meanwhile, some creative thinking also was taking place on campus by USCA’s new chancellor, Dr. Sandra Jordan.

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“Dr. Jordan was bringing a lot of new ideas, and one of her visions was to have a physical presence in downtown Aiken, which the community also wanted,” says Dr. Deidre Martin, vice chancellor for University Advancement.

Martin says such a move would bring USCA’s history full circle, explaining that in the 1950s, Aiken residents had pursued a University of South Carolina branch campus. USCA was established in an historic downtown Aiken mansion in 1961, grew and eventually relocated to its current campus, and would now in a way be going back to its roots downtown.

Aware of the interests of Caradasa and USCA, Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce President J. David Jameson arranged for the principals to meet. The seed of an alliance was planted, and together Rabun and Jordan visited innovative entrepreneur facilities in Greenville and Spartanburg, South Carolina, to learn more.

Caradasa, USCA, and the SBDC signed a memorandum of understanding in January 2014. Caradasa agreed to provide space in The Mill on Park to USCA and SBDC, who agreed to create an advisory board and provide marketing and technical support, as well as workshops and consultations with entrepreneurs.

USCA, which was pursuing an MBA program for students and professionals in science, technology, engineering and mathematics programs (STEM) and in liberal arts, also agreed to coordinate business undergraduates and MBA students to work on projects for entrepreneurs.

Caradasa acquired the 19,000-square-foot building, which had been largely vacant with only one tenant for several years.

The company had the building renovated in just four months, with a new roof and reconfigured second floor space suitable for tenants. A large space on the first floor that opens to a courtyard is available for a coffee shop or café. Soon the general public will be drawn to The Mill for community events.

The monthly fee for tenants simplifies expenses by covering rent, utilities, Internet access, a copy center, security, and cleaning of shared spaces. Tenants enjoy the ability to book two conference rooms, 24/7 access to offices, and shared use of a kitchen, reception area, and restrooms.

photos courtesy: The Mill on Park

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photo courtesy: FOTAS

Rabun’s vision for The Mill is to be a small business community focused on promoting the economic vitality of Aiken. “The Mill is a place where small businesses can grow and thrive because of the affordability, amenities, location, tenants, and exposure,” she says. “We want tenants to feel comfortable lending an ear and sharing with one another.”

The Mill generated interest and news in Aiken. Shortly after the facility opened, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina toured the facility and lauded the creative partnership that led to its establishment.

USCA will launch the MBA for STEM and liberal arts in spring 2015. The program is for applicants who want to pursue the graduate degree, but who are not (or were not) business majors. Students will divide their time between campus and The Mill. USCA also will be rolling out various educational and business development programs at The Mill.

Dr. Jordan says, “This seemed to be a clear pathway for a relationship. We could help small businesses through The Mill concept to expand, grow, and deepen their abilities.”

Rabun agrees. “Without USCA and the SBDC, this would not be the same project.”

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Caring for our Furry Friends

By John Boyette

A

iken has long been known as a haven for equine enthusiasts. From the turn of the 20th century to the present, horse activities have been a way of life for many residents.

But horses aren’t the only four-legged animals that receive special attention. Dogs, cats and other creatures are cared for thanks to a generous community and unique partnerships.

The Aiken County Animal Shelter and the SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare are examples of what can happen when public and private interests merge and work together. Both have new facilities that go a long way toward the ultimate goal of saving animals and finding new homes for them. And both have overcome hardships thanks to the generosity of Aiken County residents.

The SPCA’s Albrecht Center, which opened in September 2012, started its $6 million capital campaign at the height of the economic downturn.

“You don’t start a capital campaign and then stop one,” says Barbara Nelson, president and CEO of the Aiken SPCA. “So we just persevered, and thank goodness some of the more philanthropic people in this community said we will make a major commitment to this, so you can go out to other donors and tell them we are going to go ahead.”

Funding for the county’s shelter came in at just over $2.2 million, but that didn’t cover everything. Enter the Friends of the Animal Shelter (FOTAS), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, which raised $450,000 to pay for other needed items.

“We bridge the gap between what the county budget is and what the shelter needs,” says Jennifer Miller, one of the founding members and president of FOTAS. “We work hard to fulfill the shelter’s needs.”

The result is two modern facilities that serve the county’s animal population quite well.

The SPCA decided that its old facility on Wire Road wasn’t going to meet its future needs, so plans began in 2007 to move to another location. A 10-acre tract of land was secured on Willow Run Road, and strategic planning began to build a shelter that serves not only Aiken but the region as well.

“We wanted something that would last a very long time,” Nelson says. “The community deserves to have an animal shelter that is going to make a difference in the future.”

Architect Steve Jensen designed the Albrecht Center, and the result was a 22,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art, facility.

“The facility is animal centric,” Nelson says. “Humans, those of us in the administrative staff, sit in the middle of the building.

There are no windows. But all of the animals, whether they are in adoption areas or in holding areas waiting to come on to the adoption floor, they all have views of the outside. That’s the way we think. People understand the animals come first.”

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Cat colonies, including a massive fish tank, are the focal point of the entrance to the Albrecht Center. The dog adoption kennels feature spacious areas that allow prospective pet owners to go inside and visit. There is a large medical clinic for spaying, neutering and other procedures, plus a grooming area. The Marr Training and A Education Center and an adoption pho to cour tesy : SPC counseling area are also housed inside the center.

The SPCA is a private non-profit 501(c)(3) but has a partnership with the Aiken Department of Public Safety’s animal control division and has space for the department’s officers as well.

The SPCA’s land also includes room for the Aiken Dog Park, which features a large natural play area complete with a walk-in pool.

The new county shelter, located on Wire Road, not far from its former location, is divided into three wings and covers nearly 20,000 square feet.

• Wing A is the adoption area, which features 34 kennels with inside/outside runs.

• Wing B is the administration/reception area, and it houses staff offices as well as a medical center, quarantine/isolation rooms, and an area for euthanizations.

• Wing C is the receiving area, and it features 50 indoor/ outdoor runs and three pods devoted to cats.

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“At the previous facility, it was impossible to keep the animals healthy,” says Bobby Arthurs, chief enforcement officer for Aiken County.

An HVAC system is designed to continually pump in fresh air, which also is a big upgrade from the old shelter.

Arthurs says the county shelter, which features a “horse barn” look, was designed so it can be added on to as phases are approved.

“We can pick up where we left off,” he says.

Because the Aiken County shelter is open admission and takes in roughly 5,000 animals each year, overcrowding is a problem. To help alleviate the burden, FOTAS has a transfer program that takes adoptable dogs to no-kill shelters in the Northeast. One way is by horse carrier, and another is to use dog transport companies.

Both shelters rely heavily on volunteers, and they are creative when it comes to raising funds.

At the SPCA, a monthly “Yappy Hour” allows volunteers and donors to mix with the staff and animals as they enjoy live music.

Fun annual events include the Barkaritaville and Twilight Walk for Animals in the fall along with other special fund-raisers.

FOTAS is also active throughout the year, and its annual Woofstock Dogs, Cats and Music Festival is held each spring.

And while the county shelter and the SPCA are always looking to raise funds, that doesn’t stop them from working together from time to time.

“We help each other out,” Nelson, the SPCA’s president, says.

“They helped us when we had two things happen, the fire and the flood at the old facility. When the ice storm came (in February 2014), we helped them with laundry because we got our electricity back on before they did.”

Arthurs agrees. “They do wonderful work,” he says of the SPCA. “We’re trying to save animals. That’s what it’s all about.”

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Aiken Regional Medical Centers

A

iken Regional Medical Centers is a 245-bed acute care hospital that serves Aiken and the surrounding counties. The hospital, which opened in 1917, has been at its current location at 302 University Parkway in Aiken since 1976.

Aiken Regional Medical Centers is owned and operated by a subsidiary of Universal Heath Services, Inc. (UHS), one of the nation’s largest hospital management companies.

More than 110 physicians representing 40plus specialties are on the medical staff at Aiken Regional, 92 percent of whom are board certified.

Aiken Regional offers a comprehensive range of medical services and specialty programs including a cardiovascular institute; a cancer care institute; a 24/7 emergency department; a neuroscience center; a women’s center; a wound healing institute; a pediatric center; a vein center; a behavioral health center; bariatric surgery; joint replacement surgery; and physical therapy.

Community outreach is a top priority at Aiken Regional In addition to providing high-quality healthcare to our communities, Aiken Regional has a long history of promoting health and wellness, caring for people in the community by providing them with the education and tools they need to achieve and maintain the healthiest life possible.

For the past 23 years, Aiken Regional’s dedicated Community Outreach department has provided free and low-cost health screenings, education and support programs to Aiken-area residents. Classes include CPR, childbirth preparation, babysitting training and grief support. Weight-loss and a variety of educational seminars are held regularly at the hospital and throughout the community.

Aiken Regional offers Senior Wellness, a health program dedicated to the 50-plus population. Senior Wellness offers interesting and informative presentations to its nearly 8,000 members at the quarterly event called “The Breakfast Club.” In addition to health and wellness education, members have access to social activities and travel opportunities.

Women Enlightened for Better Health (WE) launched in 2012 as a women’s health initiative dedicated to providing women with the tools they need to live a healthy life. WE’s nearly 2,000 members have access to nurse navigators who assist them with making appointments, answer questions about health concerns and provide them with educational materials on health issues. WE is considered “the premier” womens health program in the CSRA.

Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.

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COR POR AT E P ROF I L E

Aiken Technical College

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iken Technical College is a public, open-door two-year institution established to provide Aiken County citizens opportunities for educational, economic, professional, social and personal development.

ATC educates and trains students to provide an effective workforce to support economic growth and community development through its focus on teaching and service.

ATC students pursue degrees, diplomas and certificates in a wide variety of highdemand fields, including business, education, engineering, finance, health sciences, information technology, manufacturing, marketing, nuclear, public safety, technology, university transfer and more.

This fall, ATC launched the Aiken Early College dual enrollment program developed in partnership with Aiken County Public Schools.

Aiken Early College offers motivated high

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school students the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school through a PreEngineering or General Education pathway.

Students enrolled in the program earn both high school and college credits simultaneously.

Aiken Technical College’s first two fully online degree programs also launched in the fall, allowing students to earn an Associate of Arts degree or an Associate in Network Systems Management degree completely online, from the comfort and convenience of their own computers.

Credentials in a dozen health care fields are offered in ATC’s Health and Sciences building, including: nursing, medical coding, medical assisting, dental assisting, pharmacy technician, patient care assistant, electronic health records, surgical technology, radiologic technology, and paramedic.

Construction is currently underway on campus for the future Center for Energy and

Advanced Manufacturing, a state-of-the-art facility that will house the College’s welding, mechatronics, radiation protection technology and nuclear quality systems programs.

The 36,000 square foot facility will provide citizens with the highest quality nuclear and manufacturing training to fill the high-demand jobs available in the region.

ATC is also involved in a number of initiatives to support the College’s almost 200 veterans and military family members on campus, and offers opportunities for students to engage and develop through leadership experiences.

For more than 40 years, ATC has trained citizens of greater Aiken County with the skills needed to reach their educational and career objectives and contribute to their communities. In the coming years, the College will continue to help citizens “start here, succeed anywhere.”

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or ultra-reliable performance and delivery, turn to ASCO: the world leader in solenoid valve technology. Our fluid automation offerings control flows of air, gas, water, oil, and steam across the globe. Recent innovations include miniature designs, lowpower solenoid valves, and redundant control systems for functional safety requirements.

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When you need help, we respond — fast. We can send a skilled technician onsite within 24 hours. As part Emerson, the planet’s largest process automation supplier, our experienced representatives provide the industry’s best technical support and service, around the clock — and around the globe. With our deep applications expertise and global service, ASCO is the fluid automation supplier of choice for customers desiring the lowest cost of ownership, greatest asset availability, and highest productivity.

1-800-972-ASCO (2726) info-valve@asco.com www.ascovalve.com

28

We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 28

ASCO NUCLEAR PRODUCTS ASCO, the pioneer and leader in the design and development of solenoid operated valves for the nuclear industry, offers a complete line of qualified nuclear products. Our engineering expertise and stringent quality standards make every ASCO valve a high quality engineered product. ASCO nuclear products are 100% inspected and functionally tested prior to shipment in order to ensure that they meet the rigorous demands and high expectations of the nuclear industry.

ASCO’S PRODUCT LINES INCLUDE: RedHat Solenoid Valves: largest selection of 2-, 3-, and 4-way solenoid valves, designed to handle the most demanding fluid control applications

Miniature Valves: highest-quality miniature solenoid valves and accessories for medical equipment, analytical instrumentation, and industrial applications.

Process Automation: pilot valves and control accessories for reliable process solutions Fuel Gas and Oil Products: broadest line of solenoid & motorized shutoff valves designed to control the flow of fuel gas, liquid propane and all grades of fuel oil used in combustion applications such as: industrial furnaces, ovens, kilns, incinerators, burners and boilers.

Navy & Marine Valves: solenoid and air operated valves designed to meet the exacting standards of the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard.

Pressure/Temperature Switches & Sensors: devices for pressure and temperature monitoring.

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COR POR AT E P ROF I L E

Hubbell Power Systems

H

ubbell Incorporated is a multibillion dollar global manufacturer of electrical and electronic products for a broad range of non-residential and residential construction, industrial and utility applications. It was founded in 1888

by Harvey Hubbell. Three divisions make up the Hubbell family: Hubbell Lighting, Hubbell Electrical Systems, and Hubbell Power Systems.

Hubbell Power Systems, headquartered in Columbia, South Carolina, is a global enterprise growing through acquisitions, investing in people, offering value-added services and assuring financial viability through conservative fiscal policy. HPS manufactures a wide variety of transmission, distribution, substation, OEM and telecommunications products used by power utilities. In addition, HPS products are used in the civil construction, transportation, gas and water industries. Products include construction and switching products, tools, insulators, arresters, pole line hardware, cable accessories, test equipment, transformer bushings and polymer precast enclosures and equipment pads.

The 357,000 square foot Aiken, SC plant manufactures Ohio Brass Insulators, Arresters and blocks, as well as Cable Accessories. It has approximately 350 employees.

HPS has a commitment to quality by building products that provide mission-critical infrastructure and products that deliver

power to millions of people worldwide.

This uncompromising integrity starts with the Hubbell employees. Hubbell employees are active supporters of their community.

This year the Aiken plant raised almost $15,000 to contribute to the local United Way, a non-profit organization that works with more than 1,200 local United Way offices throughout the country. United Wayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision is a world where all individuals and families achieve their human potential through education, income stability and healthy lives.

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29 12/2/14 10:58 AM

COR POR AT E P ROF I L E

Mead Hall Episcopal School St. Thaddeus Episcopal Church

W

elcome to Mead Hall, the parish day school of St. Thaddeus Church, with a student body of 350 in grades 3K-12 on two beautiful campuses in downtown Aiken.

Mead Hall students enjoy rigorous college-prep academics, a broad offering of the arts, comprehensive interscholastic athletics, and an unparalleled sense of community. Classes are small and students are greeted by name each morning.

Technology is seamlessly integrated into the curriculum, and students in Middle and Upper School are given their own individual iPads.

Our historic legacy goes back almost 100 years to the founding of the Aiken Prep and Aiken Day schools, now key parts of the new combined Mead Hall. Education is what Mead Hall does best, and we love doing it.

St. Thaddeus is one of Aikenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most historic downtown churches and has been an Aiken landmark since 1842. It is a welcoming parish with a wide variety of services, including Rite I Eucharist, contemporary worship with Eucharist, and a traditional Rite II Eucharist with organ.

Grades: 3K to 12 619 Barnwell Avenue, NW (803) 648-3223 www.meadhallschool.org

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Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 30

St. Thaddeus Church has been an integral part of the Mead Hall community since the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inception and strongly believes that students grow in faith and knowledge of God as they are educated about the world around them. At Mead Hall, moral integrity and spiritual growth go hand-inhand with academic excellence.

Sunday Services: 7:45 9:00 11:00 125 Pendleton Street, SW (803) 648-5497 www.stthaddeus.org

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COR POR AT E P ROF I L E

Savannah River Nuclear Solutions

S

avannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) is a Fluor partnership with Newport News Nuclear and Honeywell. Since August 2008, SRNS has been the management and operating contractor for the Savannah River Site (SRS), a 310-square-mile Department of Energy-owned site near Aiken, S.C., including the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL). The SRNS corporate and community offices are located in the renovated 1912 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Old Post Officeâ&#x20AC;? building in downtown Aiken.

SRNS initiatives include national security, clean energy and environmental stewardship.

SRNS provides nuclear materials management to support national defense and U.S. nuclear nonproliferation. SRNS supports National Nuclear Security Administration missions by extracting new tritium and delivering products to the military agencies. SRNS develops and deploys technologies to address environmental cleanup work, and technology

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research and development focused on national energy initiatives.

SRNL is the applied research and development laboratory at SRS. Operated

by Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, SRNL applies state-of-the-art science to provide practical, high-value, cost-effective solutions to complex technical problems.

SRNL earns its world-class reputation because of its people and their commitment to safety, security and quality in the delivery of technology solutions that work. SRNL applies this commitment to solving complex problems, such as the detection of weapons of mass destruction, the cleanup of contaminated groundwater and soils, the development of energy sources, the need for a viable national defense, and the safe management of hazardous materials.

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COR POR AT E P ROF I L E

The RE/MAX Tattersall Group

F

rom a single office that opened in 1973 in Denver, Colorado, RE/MAX has grown into a global real estate network of franchisee-owned and operated offices with more than 90,000 Sales Associates. Today, RE/MAX agents constitute the world’s most productive real estate force. Through their efforts, they’ve made it possible to say that “Nobody in the world sells more real estate than RE/MAX.” Local experts with a global network, the RE/MAX Tattersall Group is the only international, full-service real estate company in Aiken. Established in the spring of 2014, the RE/MAX Tattersall Group has grown from an office of three agents and a single listing to become the number two listing office in the Aiken Multiple Listing Service.

The RE/MAX Tattersall Group is the only RE/MAX office in the country that is branded with both the Collection and Commercial

120 Laurens Street NW Aiken, South Carolina 29801 (803)226-0036 www.tattersallgroup.com

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We lc ome Aik e n - c ommu n ity g u id e

designations. The Collections designation is granted to provide the best customer experience to owners of high value properties.

The Commercial designation requires that the RE/MAX Tattersall Group has a commercial real estate specialist who only handles commercial sales and listings.

Having these two distinguished designations provides our clients with a level of expertise that no other Aiken real estate agency can offer.

From farms and land to homes, estates and commercial properties, the RE/MAX Tattersall Group provides comprehensive services to buyers and sellers of all types. Combined with decades of experience, the RE/MAX Tattersall Group can masterfully handle any real estate need.

p l e a s e re c y c l e t h i s p u b l i c a t i o n

COR POR AT E P ROF I L E

The University of South Carolina Aiken

A

nything can happen at the University of South Carolina Aiken.

As a student you can receive a high quality education. USC Aiken, a Comprehensive University in the University of South Carolina system, offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees to more than 3,200 students in 47 programs of study. USC Aiken is ranked the #1 public regional college in the South by U.S. News & World Report’s guide “America’s Best Colleges.” 2015 marks USC Aiken’s 17th consecutive ranking among the top three in this category and its tenth time in first place.

As a veteran or military student, you’ll be welcomed. U.S. News & World Report added a new ranking this year identifying the “2015 Best Colleges for Veterans.” USC Aiken ranked as #1 top public regional college in the

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South in this category as well. USC Aiken has also been designated as a “military friendly school” by nationally distributed G.I. Jobs for three years.

As a parent, you will know your child is receiving a degree from a university that is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools-Commission on Colleges. As a student, you’ll get the full student experience with Pacer athletic teams that consistently receive national rankings in sports including golf, baseball, basketball and tennis, cultural events at the Etherredge Center, and over 70 student life organizations.

Live on campus in a dormitory.

As a member of the Aiken community, you’ll learn of our many community partnerships.

USC Aiken is home to the Small Business Development Center and a Wellness Center

that welcomes seniors and those needing cardiac rehabilitation. The Ruth Patrick Science Education Center hosted 90,000 visits last year from school children, and the DuPont Planetarium is open to all two nights a week.

As a business member of the community, you’ll find USC Aiken offers many services such as faculty consulting services and facilities that can accommodate your next meeting, seminar or conference. Students can provide internships and Continuing Education can help provide quality educational experiences to meet your specific needs.

These are just a few things happening at USC Aiken. To learn more visit www.usca.edu.

Wel com e A i ken - com m uni t y gui de

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© Bob Durand Jr.

Great variety of es! architectural styl

AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

Housing Options

R

eal estate continues

single- and multi-story

to be a good invest-

homes that appeal to

ment in Aiken, and

young professionals, families, and retirees.

tiful – historic homes and

Of the remaining

charming cottages, condo-

available homes, 102

miniums and townhouses,

are condominiums and

large equestrian estates,

townhouses, and 304 are

golf communities with na-

equine related, showing a

ture trails, and retirement

strong equestrian element

communities with endless

in the real estate market

reflects an increase in

rental market for stu-

amenities.

(July 2014 statistics

resale of homes; however,

dents attending the local

provided by Aiken Board

new construction still

university and tempo-

of Realtors).

dominates the market,”

rary contractors with

says local realtor Julie

local industries.

As of July 2014, there were1,667 homes for

© Bob Dur and Jr.

housing options are plen-

year. (July 2014) “The current trend

In addition, the Aiken area enjoys a strong

sale in Aiken, reflecting a

Prices have seen a de-

8.2% decrease in available

crease from last year with

Whitesell. “Add to that the

homes over last year.

the median sales price

fact that pending listings

taxes and incredible

Approximately 1,565

being $139,250, a 2.2%

have increased 10.5% and

values, it’s a great time

of the homes echo the

decrease, and the aver-

closed sales 4.2%, and the

to invest in a home in

tastes of various age and

age sales price $160,440,

market shows promise,”

Aiken, South Carolina,”

lifestyle groups, including

a 5% decrease from last

she says.

says Whitesell.

34

“With low property

We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 34

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12/2/14 10:58 AM

Š Bob Durand Jr.

36

We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 36

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AIKEN COST OF LIVING INDEX THIRD QUARTER 2014

Augusta-Aiken GA/SC MSA 2014

(100% Composite Index)

85.9

Grocery

(13.56%)

89.3

Housing

(27.02%)

68.6

Utilities

(10.3%)

97.2

Transportation

(12.35%)

90.7

(4.6%)

90.3

(32.17%)

92.9

Health Care Misc. Services COMPARISON Asheville, NC

105.2

Atlanta, GA

93.5

Charleston, SC

100.8

Columbia, SC

95.7

Hilton Head, SC

103.8

For comparison to your area visit www.aikenchamber.net

Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de

ion

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 37

37 12/2/14 10:58 AM

© Bob Durand Jr.

nition The absolute defi ! of southern charm

AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

I

f you are looking for

unheard of in today’s

a place that offers all

world, where affordable

the amenities you’ll

housing, award-

© Bob Dur and Jr.

Quality of Life ever need, a place that

winning schools, diverse

professionals, parents and

offers a perfect balance

recreational opportunities,

students is the foundation

here, you will find that

between the charm and

and a progressive

upon which Aiken draws

Aiken exceeds your

grace of yesterday and the

approach to business go

its strength.

expectations and offers

promise of tomorrow, you

hand-in-hand to offer

will find it in Aiken, South

something for almost

public and private

Carolina.

every lifestyle.

entities have successfully

With its rich heritage,

One of Aiken’s greatest

By working together,

assets is its people –

programs that have

cosmopolitan flair, and

individuals from diverse

improved infrastructure,

unparalleled quality of

backgrounds who are

attracted business, saved

life, Aiken is the ideal

dedicated to the economic

money, supported health

place to come and spend a

and overall well-being

care and education,

day, a week, or a lifetime.

of the community. This

and ultimately, created

strong commitment from

a thriving, vibrant

place for all ages and

business people, public

community.

for all seasons. It offers

officials, community

distinctiveness often

leaders, retirees, young

38

imagined.

implemented numerous

impeccable beauty,

Aiken is the perfect

more than you ever

So, whether you plan to

ABOVE: Season after season Aiken’s natural beauty and friendly amenities attract thousands to its thriving downtown for shopping, dining, and sightseeing.

INSET: Aiken is proud of its diverse population, including its young professionals who add value to quality of life.

come and visit or to live

We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 38

12/2/14 10:58 AM

Proudly Supporting our Community As a local company, we strive to meet the unique financial needs of the people in our community.

Whether you’re looking for a checking account, personal loan options, or just a convenient way to bank online, we’re here to help.

Stop by any of our conveniently-located branches and experience hometown banking with a bank large enough to meet all of your financial needs, but small enough to care about each one.

Laurens Street Office

North Augusta Office

South Aiken Office

149 Laurens Street NW Aiken, SC 29801 803.649.4240

336 Georgia Avenue North Augusta, SC 29841 803.278.1421

1001 Pine Log Road Aiken, SC 29803 803.649.0649

A Division of Georgia Bank & Trust

www.southernbandt.com Where else can you find

• A beautiful, thriving

young singles and retirees.

Charleston, or Savannah.

unique combinations that

downtown with small

mesh so incredibly well?

retail shops complemented

charming city, and you

the best of both worlds –

by national chains and

will discover why people

they can enjoy big city life

franchises throughout the

who live here celebrate

without having to live in a

community

Aiken every day – because

large metropolitan area.

• An exceptional business environment located in a small, but

• Technically advanced

Aiken’s residents have

One visit to this

it is the perfect place to

globally cosmopolitan,

health care services

operate a business, raise

town

delivered with a friendly

a family, meet young

hometown feel

professionals, and enjoy

• Cozy cottages and single-family homes

• Modern vehicles

nestled among grand,

sharing unpaved streets

historic estates

with riders on horseback

LOCATION Aiken is ideally located

• An active, modern lifestyle entrenched in

retirement.

It is these unique

and accessible to major

Southern charm and a

combinations that make

interstates and airports.

history that has been

the Aiken area special

The beach and the

meticulously preserved

and appealing for all age

mountains are within

groups. The old and the

driving distance, and in

progressive college and

new blend perfectly to

three hours, one can be

university with a small

provide a lifestyle that

in Charlotte, Atlanta,

town appeal

suits almost any taste -

• A contemporary,

from growing families to

© Bo b Du ran d Jr.

Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 39

39 12/2/14 10:58 AM

NOW IS THE TIME TO GIVE UP SMOKING

For those who enjoy history and culture, Aiken sits in the middle of the South Carolina National

EDUCATION

Report’s guide, “America’s

Aiken Technical

Best Colleges,” has ranked

College offers a variety

important to the citizens

the University of South

of programs to prepare

Education is extremely of Aiken and is a top

Carolina Aiken (USC

citizens to enter the

Heritage Corridor – one

priority in work force and

Aiken) one of the top three

workforce or go on to

of several corridors in

economic development

public regional colleges

complete a bachelor’s

the United States. The

initiatives throughout the

in the South. USC Aiken

degree in fields including

corridor was designed to

area.

has been ranked first ten

business, health care,

times: 2002, 2003, 2006,

manufacturing, nuclear,

encourage people to get off the interstates and onto

Students in kindergarten through 12th grade

2007, 2009, 2010, 2011,

computer technology

the back roads of South

regularly receive

2012, 2013 and 2015.

and more. The College

Carolina, where they can

recognition for academic

For retirees looking to

learn about the state’s

achievement. The county

continue their education,

training employees for

traditions and culture

plays a major role in

has a variety of schools

USC Aiken offers the

new industry and adapts

and experience various

– public, charter, and

Academy for Lifelong

quickly to meet the needs

festivals and foods.

private – that place a high

Learning. Associated

of existing and expanding

priority on all aspects

with the University’s

industry throughout the

The climate is another plus; Aiken’s residents

of learning and that

Continuing Education

CSRA. ATC also offers the

can enjoy the change of

continually report strong

program, the Lifelong

Aiken Early College dual

seasons without prolonged

test scores and graduate

Learning program offers

enrollment program to

successes.

classes and events to

allow high school juniors

those over 55 years of age.

and seniors to begin their

severe weather.

For the 17th consecutive year, U.S. News & World

40

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Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 40

college education early

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12/2/14 10:58 AM

and save time and money in the process.

and international talent.

The performing arts provide exciting

HEALTH CARE With more than 120

entertainment and often give local citizens an

doctors and 245 beds,

opportunity to perform.

Aiken Regional Medical

The URS Center for the

Centers offers outstanding

Performing Arts, a state-

services to its patients in

of-the-art theatre located

a variety of specialties,

in historic downtown

including the Cancer

Aiken, is home to the

Care Institute, the

Aiken Community

Cardiovascular Institute,

Playhouse, which offers a

and the Vein Center.

variety of shows to meet

Several hospitals located

everyone’s tastes, from

in Augusta, Georgia,

drama to comedy and

including University

musicals. In addition to

Hospital and others

the playhouse, the Aiken

throughout the region,

Performing Arts Group

also offer a wide range

brings in nationally and

of medical services and

internationally renowned

specialties.

singers, musicians and

In addition to hospital and physician care, a

actors to Aiken each year.

Juilliard in Aiken,

comprehensive range

a partnership with

of health care services

America’s premier

can be found in Aiken

conservatory and the

County, including

Aiken community,

home health, physical

features a week of

therapy, occupational

events each March that

therapy, sports medicine,

encompasses public

behavioral health, and

performances, chamber

exercise programs to

concerts, master classes,

name a few.

and outreach programs in

ART & CULTURE

area schools. Aiken is the first and only community

The Aiken community

in the world with which

is passionate about art

Juilliard has partnered

– all kinds of art – and

to create a festival of

residents and visitors

this magnitude and

alike support the arts with

importance.

an enthusiasm that could

The Etherredge Center,

rival most any large city.

located on the campus of

Visual and performing

the University of South

arts thrive year round

Carolina Aiken (USC

and touch many cultures

Aiken), features a 687-

and lifestyles, while

seat theater known for

showcasing local, national

its acoustical quality.

&+$50,1* 5(/$;,1* :$,7,1* )25 <28 ZZZ 9LVLW$LNHQ6& FRP Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum 406 Park Avenue, Aiken s 1-888-AikenSC

Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de

ion

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 41

41 12/2/14 10:58 AM

The Center holds many

Participation in the arts

of African-Americans to

Greater Aiken Chamber

cultural events open to

is highly encouraged

Aiken and neighboring

of Commerce presents

the community, including

in the area through art

regions.

the Aiken’s Makin’ juried

the annual cultural

education and enrichment

series featuring traveling

classes. Both visual and

is a replica of Aiken’s

September on the Friday

theater companies and

performing arts classes

historic railroad depot. It

and Saturday after Labor

performers.

are available and give all

houses the City of Aiken’s

Day. The popular event

The University’s

The Aiken Train Museum

arts and crafts show every

citizens the opportunity

Visitor’s Center, as well

attracts more than 10,000

100,000-square-foot

to learn a new skill or

as displays depicting the

people annually to Aiken’s

Convocation Center, one

enhance an existing one.

relationship between the

historic downtown.

of the region’s premier

History and culture play

founding of Aiken and the

RECREATION

entertainment facilities,

an important role in the

history of the railroad –

features everything from

community, and various

from the popular legend

internationally known

historical sites and

of a bride whose “hand

offers exciting outdoor

music stars to comedians,

museums offer memorable

was given in marriage” in

activities for visitors and

musicals, and even

educational experiences.

exchange for a railroad

residents of all ages.

professional bull riding.

Banksia, a former Winter

stop, to the establishment

Every season in Aiken

Fun and diverse

Colony estate and now

of the “Winter Colony,”

activities abound year

renowned writers each

home to the Aiken County

when wealthy northerners

round in Aiken and

year during its Oswald

The University also hosts

Historical Museum, once

traveled by way of

surrounding towns. One

Writer’s Series. Sponsored

served as the original

personal railway cars to

of the biggest draws for

by the Department of

campus of the University

spend their winters in

many is the numerous

English, the event features

of South Carolina Aiken

Aiken.

equestrian activities and

free public readings by

and as the community’s

novelists, short story writers, and poets.

Outdoor musical

Science enthusiasts

events. The area boasts

public library. The

will enjoy learning about

of international polo

museum offers an

Aiken’s science and

matches, foxhunting,

exciting historical view

engineering history. The

horse shows, and carriage

of Aiken and features

SRS Heritage Foundation,

and pleasure riding.

popular in the area. The

ongoing displays and

Inc. preserves the history

Busy horse farms and

Hopelands Gardens

entertainment is also

shows that bring history

of the Savannah River

stables dot the area, and

Summer Concert Series

to life. The grounds have

Site (SRS) and interprets

equestrian activities are

often attracts a large,

been developed into an

to the public the Site’s

so popular that the City of

enthusiastic crowd and

arboretum and nature

role in winning the Cold

Aiken has unpaved streets

features various musical

trail.

War. The Foundation

made of hard clay to

focuses on SRS’s

protect the horses’ hooves.

entertainment, including bands, ballet, bluegrass, and clogging.

The Immanuel Institute

Long known as a premier

Building, one of Aiken

technical and scientific

County’s most historic

achievements, sociological

horse training center

landmarks, is the site

impacts, and ecological

that has produced such

the Arts and numerous

of the Center for African

accomplishments.

winners as Sea Hero,

galleries feature works

American History, Art &

The Aiken Center for

of local, as well as international and

When it comes to

Kelso, Summer Squall,

Culture (CAAHAC). The

outdoor fun and

Good Time, and most

goal of the center, which is

entertainment, Aiken

recently, Palace Malice

national, artists. Artist

currently being developed,

boasts a variety of

who won the 2013

shows and receptions

is to preserve and present

festivals, such as the

Belmont Stakes, the third

flourish throughout the

the cultural legacy of

annual St. Mary’s

leg of the Triple Crown.

year and offer a unique

the African-American

Chocolate Festival, Aiken

Aiken is home to the

Diaspora and chronicle

Bluegrass Festival, and

Aiken Training Track, the

the many contributions

the Lobster Races. The

Ford Conger Steeplechase

mix of art media.

42

We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 42

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12/2/14 10:58 AM

Track, and numerous polo

people of all ages. Citizens

fields.

Field in Aiken plays host

Horse enthusiasts

to local, regional and

celebrate Aiken’s rite

national sporting events

of spring every March

that attract thousands of

with the Triple Crown.

people to the area each

The popular three-

year.

weekend equestrian

For those who enjoy

event, which includes

nature and walking, the

flat races, the national-

area offers numerous

circuit Steeplechase and

public parks, walking

polo, draws families,

trails and tranquil

friends and businesses

gardens. Hopelands

together for fun, food and

Gardens, a 14-acre public

festivities.

treasure, features garden

Another popular activity

paths that wind among

that thrives in Aiken is

100-year-old magnolia

golf, which is a major

and oak trees. For the

draw for many who move

more adventurous,

to the area. Simply

Hitchcock Woods, a more

stated, the area is a

than 2,000-acre woodland

golfer’s paradise! With

preserve nestled in the

several private and public

heart of downtown Aiken,

courses available, golf

has numerous trails and

enthusiasts take to the

paths that provide hours

links year round.

of hiking, horseback

Golf tournaments

as the novice. Thriving

course in South Carolina, regattas and draws

and the area bustles

swimming, fishing, and

with activity every year

boating enthusiasts from

during the Masters Golf

the region.

Tournament in nearby Augusta, Georgia.

For many residents and

EVENTS YLES

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In addition, camping, boating and water activities are plentiful at

visitors, tennis, softball,

nearby lakes and state

baseball, volleyball

parks, and every season

and soccer play a close

the Aiken area comes alive

rival to golf. Municipal

with numerous exciting

and county recreation

festivals and events for all

departments offer

to enjoy.

numerous competitive sports opportunities for

Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de

ion

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 43

43 12/2/14 10:58 AM

Photo courtesy of Aiken Regional Medical Centers

AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

Health Care The region is rich in

priority in Aiken

health care facilities and

and Aiken County.

is home to nine hospitals

Health care providers and

and thousands of health

citizens alike recognize

care professionals

the value of a healthy

providing some of the best

community. With highly

health care services in the

trained professionals

nation.

who are dedicated to the

Local residents have

Univ ersit y Heal th Care Syst em

H

ealth care is a top

pneumonia. Healthinsight,

wellness of the entire

access to Aiken Regional

a private, nonprofit

person - from acute care

Medical Centers (ARMC),

organization based in

to behavioral health,

which the Carolinas

Utah, ranks ARMC among

preventive medicine and

Center for Medical

the nation’s top hospitals

wellness programs - the

Excellence has ranked as

for treating the above-

Aiken area offers superior

South

mentioned diseases.

health care services

Carolina’s top hospital

With more than 120

covering a broad spectrum

for treating heart

on-staff physicians

of specialties.

attacks, heart failure and

covering 38 specialties,

44

ABOVE: The Aiken region has a variety of specialists to care for the community’s health care needs, including women’s and heart and vascular services.

We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 44

12/2/14 10:58 AM

“

I try to be an active listener.

I think it’s very important that patients know you are truly listening to what they have to say and that what they say is important.

”

Susan Holsomback Director of Cardiopulmonary and Endoscopy

I think sometimes people assume that bigger is better, but I think the opposite is true.

Aiken Regional has a highly qualified medical staff that performs advanced procedures with equipment that rivals that of larger facilities. But, because of our size we are still able to provide a personalized, hometown touch to our patients. We are a family, and we like to treat our patients like they are family.

People you know. Healthcare you trust.

Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. 141854

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 45

12/2/14 10:58 AM

the 245-bed hospital is

profit University Hospital,

well equipped to care for

which serves 25 counties

family health and wellness

in Georgia and South

needs. Southside Imaging

Carolina. Over the years,

Center opened its doors in

University’s downtown

2011 and serves residents

campus has expanded

on Aiken’s south side

to include the Heart &

with convenient access

Vascular Institute and

and advanced diagnostic

office buildings that house

services. ARMC’s newly

more than 600 employed

renovated cath lab,

and private practice

equipped with the latest

physicians as well as

technology, allows the

various treatment centers.

Cardiovascular Institute

University Hospital offers

to consistently care for

diagnoses, treatment and

patients at a rate below

rehabilitation of a wide

the national and state

variety of illnesses and

average “Door to Balloon”

conditions covering most

times.

all specialties at multiple

ARMC’s services

University Hospital

emergency department

McDuffie in Thomson, GA.

to cardiopulmonary and

University Hospital is

respiratory services,

the region’s healthcare

Computerized Tomography

leader for quality,

Scanning, same-day

safety and patient

outpatient surgery,

satisfaction as noted by

Real Estate One

dialysis treatments, pain

industry organizations

management, and more.

such as The Leapfrog

The Sleep Evaluation

Group®, CareChex®,

Center, Women’s Life Care

Healthgrades® and

Center, Diabetes and

the National Research

Nutrition Teaching Center,

Corporation® as well

Aurora Behavioral Health

as news organizations

Helping you find your way Home.

Services, Cardiovascular

such as US News and

Institute of Carolina

World Report. University

and the Cancer Care

also is the only hospital

Institute of Carolina, are

in the region to receive

among ARMC’s top-notch

the prestigious Magnet

facilities.

designation for nursing

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campuses, which includes

range from a 24-hour

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Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 46

In addition, The Surgery

excellence, considered

Center of Aiken, located

one of the highest

near the hospital campus,

honors in nursing, from

offers outpatient surgery.

the American Nurses

Augusta, Georgia-based

Credentialing Center.

University Health Care

Also serving the area in

System is anchored by

nearby Augusta, Georgia,

the 581-bed, not-for-

is the Georgia Regents

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12/2/14 10:58 AM

Health System, which

of health care services

includes the Georgia

can be found in Aiken

Regents Medical Center,

County, including

a teaching- and research-

home health, physical

based hospital with 478

therapy, occupational

beds, and the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

therapy, sports medicine,

Hospital of Georgia, a 154-

behavioral health, and

bed pediatric hospital.

exercise programs to name

The hospitals are the

a few. Special interest

regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Level 1 adult and

programs and support

pediatric trauma centers

groups are also available,

with service lines that

as well as educational

include digestive health,

programs.

neuro, cancer, and heart.

Comprehensive care

The health system also

facilities, adult day

includes a variety of

services and assisted-

dedicated centers and

living communities

units for specific medical

complement the many

treatment, such as sports

medical services available

medicine.

and support the diverse

In addition to hospital and physician care, a

health care needs of area citizens.

comprehensive range

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Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de

ion

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 47

47 12/2/14 10:58 AM

photo courtesy of Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC

Lots of career opportunities!

AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

Economy & Employment companies provide a stable

strength of Aiken

working environment and

and Aiken County

strengthen Aiken Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

lies in the ability to change with the times

economic base.

Savannah River Nuclear

and to embrace a global

Solutions, LLC, the largest

marketplace.

employer in Aiken County

From everyday products,

and one of the largest in

such as pharmaceutical

South Carolina, plays a

and consumer health

major role in the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

products, to tires,

economy at the Savannah

automotive parts, diesel

River Site, which includes

engines, vending machines

the Savannah River

and materials for nuclear

National Laboratory.

defense and environmental

Several other large

restoration, many

employers in the area,

advanced businesses and

including Savannah

industries call the Aiken

River Remediation, LLC,

area home. The range

at the Savannah River

and diversity of these

Site, Kimberly-Clark

48

pho to cour tesy of MTU Ame rica Inc.

T

he economic

We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 48

12/2/14 10:58 AM

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Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 49

49 12/2/14 10:59 AM

Dedicated people.

Dedicated energy.

SCE&G employees feel strongly about the South Carolina communities where we all live, work and play. While providing reliable energy is our priority, we are dedicated to preserving the environment, strengthening educational resources and encouraging business development in South Carolina.

I’m proud to tell you I work for SCE&G. You matter to me, and to the 3,000 SCE&G employees who are dedicated to serving you 24-7.

Dorie Byrd, Contact Center Supervisor

50

sceg.com

We lc ome A ik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

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Corporation, CB&I I

Shinsho American

and the University of

South Carolina, the Aiken

AREVA MOX Services,

Corporation (Japan).

South Carolina Aiken are

area is blessed with

Aiken County recognizes

instrumental in preparing

excellent transportation

Tire Operations have

the value of its economic

students for the business

access.

invested heavily in Aiken

base and works closely

and technical needs

County and contribute

with existing industries

of local employers. In

Municipal Airport

significantly to economic

to help ensure their

addition, their Continuing

accommodates corporate

prosperity.

success and longevity.

Education programs

jet service, and the

The testament of these

support new technological

area offers two railway

strong global presence

efforts shows – several

needs brought on by an

companies, bus lines, and

with several international

existing industries have

ever changing market.

motor freight lines that

companies, such as

significantly expanded

Aiken’s convenient

provide transportation

Bridgestone Americas Tire

their operations in recent

location and accessibility

services. Add to this the

Operations (Japan), MTU

years.

also make it attractive

fact that the major ports

for many different kinds

of Charleston, South

Autoneum North America

progressive business

of businesses. With its

Carolina and Savannah,

(Switzerland), Valmut,

environment, the Aiken

proximity to I-20 and

Georgia are only 2 ½

Inc. (Finland), Newman

area offers a diverse, well

two commercial airports,

hours away, and one

Technology SC (Japan),

trained work force and

Augusta Regional Airport

can see that business

BAE Systems (United

incentives to potential

in Augusta, Georgia, and

transportation needs are

Kingdom), BOC Gases

business and industry.

Columbia Metropolitan

easily met in the Aiken

(United Kingdom), and

Aiken Technical College

Airport in Columbia,

area.

and Bridgestone Americas

The area also enjoys a

America Inc. (Germany),

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 50

With its friendly,

In addition, the Aiken

12/2/14 10:59 AM

years as the CSRAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital of Choice Based on an independent survey conducted by the National Research Corporation, area residents have selected University as the Hospital of Choice for Overall Quality and Image for the 16th consecutive year. We are honored and humbled. After all, we couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have done it without you. Thank you for continuing to Insist on University.

2014/2015

ion

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 51

12/2/14 10:59 AM

Aiken

{by the numbers}

EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR

8

7

9

10

1

6

1. Professional and Business Services – 21.6% 2. Government – 16.2% 3. Wholesale and Retail – 14.8% 4. Manufacturing – 13.7% 5. Education and Health Services – 9.3% 6. Construction – 7.1% 7. Financial Activities – 6% 8. Transportation and Warehousing – 4.7% 9. Leisure and Hospitality – 4.6% 10. Other – 2%

5

2

4

3

K-12 SCHOOL NUMBERS

Aiken County major employers

20......................................... Elementary 10................................................Middle Employees

7......................................... High School

Company

Description

Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC

Nuclear Processing

4,704

Aiken County Public Schools

Education

3,199

Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations

Tires

1,595

CB&I I AREVA MOX Services Savannah River Site

Nuclear Design

1,567

Savannah River Remediation, LLC Savannah River Site

Design and Construction

1,541

Aiken Regional Medical Centers

Health Care

1,237

19-24 years old ............................. 8.8%

Kimberly-Clark Corporation

Consumer Paper Products

1,167

25-44 years old ........................... 28.9%

Aiken County

Government

970

WSI-SRS Savannah River Site

Security Systems

685

Wal-Mart Associates Inc.

Retail

653

Shaw Industries

Textiles

612

AGY

Glass Fiber & Circuit Boards

552

University of South Carolina Aiken

Education

537

Crane Merchandising Services

Vending Machines

504

UPS Supply Chain Solutions

Transportation & Logistics

485

City of Aiken

Government

433

ASCO Valve Manufacturing. Inc

Industrial Solenoid Valves

399

Hubbell Power Systems

High Voltage Insulators

370

Tri-Development Center of Aiken County, Inc.

Non-Profit Service Agency

343

1...................Career & Technology Center

52

We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 52

3....................................Charter Schools

% POPULATION

BY AGE GROUP 0-18 years old ............................. 26.2%

45-64 years old ........................... 23.3% 65 and over ................................. 12.8%

COMMUNITIES (INCORPORATED) IN AIKEN COUNTY

Aiken Burnettown Jackson Monetta New Ellenton North Augusta Perry Salley Wagener Windsor

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12/2/14 10:59 AM

Aiken

Total Area of County, 1,080.66 square miles Land – 1071.03 square miles • Water – 8 square miles

County Population Estimate, (2013) – 164,176 (U.S. Census Bureau)

Growth Rate + 2.5% (2010-2013) (South Carolina Statistical Abstract)

Estimated Total Civilian Labor Force – 78,030 (2013) (Lower Savannah Council of Governments)

Unemployment Rate (July) 2014 – 6.3% (South Carolina Employment Security Commission)

A Lasting Impression On The Community.

Bridgestone Americas is committed to being an engaged corporate citizen in all the communities we call home. Be it through our corporate partnerships with organizations like

DISTANCE TO OTHER CITIES Atlanta, GA ......................................................................163 miles

Habitat for Humanity and United Way, or our local support of boy scout troops and community clean-up efforts, being involved is an important part of our business.

Augusta, GA ......................................................................16 miles Charleston, SC ................................................................126 miles Charlotte, NC ..................................................................150 miles Columbia, SC....................................................................56 miles Greenville, SC .................................................................126 miles Hilton Head, SC ..............................................................131 miles

Bridgestone Aiken County 1 Bridgestone Parkway Graniteville, SC 29829

Myrtle Beach, SC ............................................................192 miles Savannah, GA..................................................................127 miles Find out more at www.BridgestoneAmericasCSR.com

Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de

ion

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 53

53 12/2/14 10:59 AM

photo courtesy Aiken County Public Schools.

AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

Education

A

iken Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s private citizens and business

communities have a long standing commitment to education and embrace the many academic pho to cou rtes y of USC Aike n

offerings â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from prekindergarten to college and beyond. With public, private and religionbased schools available, educational opportunities are plentiful for all

Aiken County Public

the pre-K to 12th grade

students, where academic,

Schools continue to be

levels. During the 2013-

as well as physical and

recognized for academic

14 year, 11 schools

character, development

excellence and student

received South Carolina

are stressed.

achievement throughout

Palmetto Gold and Silver

54

We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 54

12/2/14 10:59 AM

awards for attaining high

due in part to the many

levels of performance

partnerships with local

on state standardized

colleges and corporations

measurements for

that enhance academic

general performance;

courses and expand the

three schools were

academic choices for stu-

recognized for closing the

dents at all grade levels.

achievement gap.

The Aiken County

In addition, many

Career and Technology

schools have received

Center (ACCTC) offers

statewide and national

a multitude of award-

recognition for model

winning career focused

programs in academics,

programs. Recently, the

the arts, physical

first apprentices from the

education, middle school

District’s partnership with

education, and science

MTU America graduated

education.

as Skilled Metal Workers and are among the first

• Students in elementary

high school students in

school receive cutting-

the nation to complete

edge literacy instruction

an apprenticeship

from reading experts and

program of its kind. From

interventionists with the

welding and emergency/

goal of reading on grade

fire management to

level by third grade.

fashion, health sciences, electricity, media

• Science, Technology,

technology, and just about

Engineering, and Math

everything in between, the

(STEM) initiatives are

Career and Technology

integrated in all Aiken

Center increases student

County Middle Schools.

options and supports local employment needs.

• Aiken County Public

Aiken’s college-bound

School District seniors

students have the

performed above both

opportunity to earn dual

the state and national

credit by completing up

averages on the ACT

to 36 hours of college

college entrance exam.

course work while still in high school. Partnerships

• The Class of 2014,

between the District,

AIKEN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS AT A GLANCE: K-12 The Consolidated School District of Aiken County is South Carolina’s sixth largest school district in population.

Address: 1000 Brookhaven Drive, Aiken, SC 29803 Phone: (803) 641-2428 Web: www.acpsd.net K-12 Student Population: 24,614 (2013-2014) Number of Schools: 42 - 7 High Schools - 11 Middle Schools - 20 Elementary Schools - 1 Career and Technology Center - 3 Charter Schools Average Teacher Salary: $49,209 Number of Teachers: 1,494 Number of 4-year-olds: 533 Total Number of Employees: 3,350 Teacher and Administrator Quality: (measured by highest degree attained) • 43% Master’s Degree • 17% Master’s Degree + 30 • 1% Doctorate

New Students All new students entering school for the first time in Aiken County are requested to provide the following documents: • Birth Certificate • Immunization Card/Form • Proof of residency

Immunization For complete immunization requirements, call 1-800-27-SHOTS or visit www.scdhec.net.

comprised of 1307

Aiken Technical College

Age Requirements

high school graduates,

and the University of

amassed a record-

South Carolina at Aiken,

breaking $50,962,224 in

save students thousands

Child Development (4K): 4 years old by September 1 Kindergarten (5K): 5 years old by September 1 First Grade: 6 years old by September 1

scholarships.

of dollars in college costs and give students a head

Aiken County Public Schools are successful

start on their college career.

Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 55

55 12/2/14 10:59 AM

HIGHER EDUCATION Aiken Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s institutions of higher education, Aiken

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644-9550

128 Laurens Street, NW Aiken, South Carolina 29801

www.vistabankonline.com

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We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 56

The education in Aiken

and the University of

higher education, though.

South Carolina Aiken

A strong commitment to

(USC Aiken), offer

lifelong learning is evident

outstanding opportunities

in USC Aikenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exciting

for area citizens.

programs for seniors.

The Academy for Lifelong

comprehensive university

Learning, located on

in the University of

campus, offers those over

South Carolina system.

age 55 the opportunity

The University offers

to expand their horizons

bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

through lectures, group

degrees to more than

studies and travel.

Also located on the

programs of study. USC

campus of USC Aiken is

Aiken is ranked the #1

the Ruth Patrick Science

public regional college in

Education Center,

the South by U.S. News

which offers a hands-

& World Reportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guide,

on approach to science

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Colleges.â&#x20AC;?

and math. Established

The year 2015 marks USC

in 1987 as a cooperative

Aikenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 17th consecutive

effort with business and

ranking among the top

industry, the center has

three in this category

enriched the educational

and its tenth time in first

lives of more than 200,000

place.

students, teachers and

As a multi-service, phone

at a four-year institution.

Technical College (ATC)

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the business community,

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Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 57

57 12/2/14 10:59 AM

photo courtesy of Aiken Downtown Development Association

A beautiful area to e! relax and enjoy lif

AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

A

iken is the perfect

Towns™ and “One of

place to spend

10 terrific, affordable

retirement years. It

retirement towns,” and

offers quality health care,

“One of 10 places to retire

a pleasant climate, friendly

on a budget” by Where to

people, educational and

Retire magazine.

work opportunities, the

Aiken’s accessible loca-

Pho to cour tesy of Dog woo d Stab le, Inc.

Retirement Housing: With a median home

Education: The University of

price at $139,250 (July

South Carolina Aiken

2014) and a low cost of

(USC Aiken) and Aiken

perfect balance of activi-

tion and proximity to

living, Aiken is a very

Technical College (ATC)

ties, and a relaxed lifestyle.

everything from historic

affordable place to retire.

are located in Aiken

It also offers a number of

Charleston to bustling

A variety of housing

County. Both offer

housing options at a range

Charlotte make it a perfect

options are available

continuing educational

of pleasing price points.

destination for seniors.

– historic homes and

opportunities for

In short, settling in Aiken

charming cottages, large

seniors/retirees.

of these items that

affords retirees the oppor-

equestrian estates, new

USC Aiken offers the

have earned Aiken the

tunity to be as active, or

condominiums and

Academy for Lifelong

reputation as the “No.

equally as relaxed, as they

townhouses, golfing

Learning where seniors

1 place to retire,” by

want to be.

communities with nature

can learn in classroom

trails, and retirement

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Century 21, the “One

Here is a look at some of

of 21 Best Towns for

the key items retirees look

communities with endless

Boomers” by Best Boomer

for:

amenities.

58

We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 58

12/2/14 10:59 AM

trips. In addition, the

located at Fort Gordon. In

University offers computer

addition, there are nearly

training classes and free

20 assisted living facilities,

undergraduate courses

and thousands of health

(when space permits) for

care professionals.

seniors.

Health Care: Some of the best health

Activities: No matter what one likes to do for fun, Aiken has a

care in the nation is

little bit of everything: golf,

available right here in the

tennis, horseback riding,

Aiken region. It is home

walking trails, festivals,

to several hospitals and

community involvement,

health systems, including

and numerous volunteer

Aiken Regional Medical

opportunities. For those

Centers, Georgia Regents

who enjoy shopping,

Health System, University

Aiken offers specialty and

Health Care System,

antique shops, national

Doctors Hospital, Trinity

retail stores, and the

Hospital, the VA Medical

Aiken Mall with a mix of

Center, and Eisenhower

shopping choices.

Army Medical Center

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AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

Relocation Information DRIVING Registering your vehicle (You have 45 days to transfer your vehicle title and registration) 1. Start at the Aiken County Government Center with your out of state title or previous car registration form. At the Center you will be directed to the Auditor’s Office to calculate your tax bill. The tax rate for personal vehicles in Aiken County is 6%. This is paid at the Treasurer’s Office. Both offices are located at 1930 University Parkway in Aiken. You will be issued a paid property tax receipt.

2. Next go to a South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles office www.scdmvonline.com Aiken DMV Office: 1755 Richland Avenue East, Aiken, SC 29801 Phone: (803) 641-7752 Mon. – Tues., Thurs. – Fri. Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (closed on state holidays) Wed. Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Saturdays 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. two weekends a month Road Test Appointments: 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

CDL testing and International Services are not available at this location.

North Augusta DMV Office: 1913 Ascauga Lake Road, North Augusta, SC 29841 Phone: (803) 279-6659 Mon. – Tues., Thurs. – Fri. Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (closed on state holidays) Wed. Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Not open on Saturdays CDL testing and International Services are available.

You will need the following to complete your registration • The paid property tax receipt you received at the Aiken County Government Center • Your out-of-state vehicle title and registration If there is a lien on your vehicle, you must bring the name and address of the company that holds the lien.

• Liability Insurance information Provide the name of your automobile liability insurance company, not the name of the agent. If you are a new resident in South Carolina and have an automobile policy with a national insurance company, be sure to change your address with your insurance company before you register your vehicle in South Carolina. DMV will verify your coverage electronically. If the insurance policy cannot be verified, your driver’s license and vehicle registration may be suspended.

• Odometer mileage reading This information is used to complete Form 400, Certificate of Title/Registration. The form is available at the DMV office or may be downloaded and completed in advance at www.scdmvonline.com.

• Personal Identification A valid/unexpired out of state driver’s license or a new South Carolina driver’s license are acceptable forms of identification.

• • • • •

Title and Registration Fees Title - $15 fee Passenger cars and RV’s - $24 fee Persons 64 years of age - $22 fee 65 or older or disabled - $20 fee (If disabled, a statement from a medical doctor as to the permanency of the disability must be submitted.)

• Motorcycles - $10 fee • Utility or Camper Trailers - $10 fee • Trailers with empty weight in excess of 2,500 lbs. - $20 fee

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Obtaining a South Carolina Driver’s License (You have 90 days to obtain your license) • If your out of state license is valid/unexpired, you do not have to pass the knowledge test or road test.

• An eye exam will be given at all SC Department of Motor Vehicles offices or you may submit a statement of visual acuity from an eye specialist.

• If your name has changed since birth, you must provide all legal documents (adoption records, marriage certificate, certificate of naturalization, court ordered name change) supporting all name changes from birth to present.

• A South Carolina license is valid for ten years and must be renewed by your birthday in the tenth year.

• Military personnel (and their dependents) and students temporarily in South Carolina are not required to obtain a South Carolina Driver’s license. However, you must have a driver’s license from your home state to operate in South Carolina.

Rules of the Road – Traffic Regulations • South Carolina utilizes a point system to penalize traffic law violators. This system is designed to encourage violators to improve driving habits or risk losing their license. Each traffic violation carries an assigned number of points, and when the total reaches a maximum of 12, the driver’s license is suspended.

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carry severe penalties, including imprisonment.

• In South Carolina, if windshield wipers are being used because of weather conditions, then headlights must be used as well.

• Seat belts are required for the driver and front seat and back seat passengers when the vehicle is equipped with a shoulder harness in addition to a lap belt.

• State law mandates the use of child safety seats that meet National Safety Commission standards (buses are the only exception). Children under the age of six must be restrained in the front or back seat as provided by South Carolina’s child restraint law. Four out of five children in safety seats are improperly restrained. Parents should have their children’s safety seats inspected for proper installation. The Department of Public Safety, Office of Highway Safety, maintains child passenger safety seat fitting stations. For more information, call (803) 896-9950 or (877) 349-7187. You can also visit their website at www.buckleupsc.com

ELECTRICITY AND GAS Aiken County is served by two electrical utilities. Aiken Electric Cooperative primarily serves the rural areas of Aiken County. The Co-op’s headquarters are located at 2790 Wagener Road (SC 4 east) in Aiken. You may contact them by phone at (803) 649-6245 or (800) 922-1262.

More information is available at their website: www.aikenco-op.org.

South Carolina Electric & Gas (SCE&G) primarily serves the incorporated areas of Aiken County. SCE&G has offices in Aiken and North Augusta. You may contact them by phone at (800) 251-7234. More information is available at their website: www.sceg.com.

Natural gas is available in certain areas of Aiken County. South Carolina Electric & Gas (SCE&G) provides natural gas in selected areas of Aiken County. SCE&G has offices in Aiken and North Augusta. You may contact them by phone at (800) 251-7234. More information is available at their website: www.sceg.com.

GARBAGE REMOVAL City of Aiken Public Service Department ......................................................... (803) 642-7613 Provides garbage disposal services to homes in the city limits, as well as curbside recycling. Rolling carts are available to all city residents.

Tyler’s Sanitation, Inc. ..................................................................................... (803) 648-6714 Provides residential garbage disposal to unincorporated areas of Aiken County, as well as commercial rolloff and front load containers.

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GOVERNMENT State Government • The capital of South Carolina is Columbia, located approximately 60 miles northeast of Aiken.

• South Carolina is governed under a constitution ratified in 1895.

The Augusta Chronicle .................................................................................... (803) 648-1395 Augusta-Aiken MSA www.chronicle.augusta.com Weekly:

State legislators and members of the state’s executive branch can be contacted by calling the following numbers:

Aiken Leader ................................................................................................... (803) 226-3982 Local/Aiken County

Governor............................................................................................................... (803) 734-2100 Lt. Governor.......................................................................................................... (803) 734-2080 State Senate .......................................................................................................... (803) 734-2080 House of Representatives ..................................................................................... (803) 734-2402

Cable Television

Aiken County Phone:............................................................................................................. (803) 642-2012 Location: 1930 University Parkway, W, Aiken, SC 29801 Website: www.aikencountysc.gov The county is governed by the County Council, comprised of an elected-at-large Council Chairman and 8 members elected from single-member districts.

• Council-administrator form of government • Council members are elected at large to four-year terms.

• A county administrator is appointed by the county council to manage the day-to-day activities of the county.

City of Aiken Phone:............................................................................................................. (803) 642-7654 Location: 135 Laurens Street, SW, Aiken, SC 29801 Website: www.cityofaikensc.gov The City of Aiken operates under the Council-Manager form of government. Under the Council-Manager Plan, the City Council sets policy guiding the city’s growth, development, and future. The City Manager serves as the Chief Administrative Officer, much like the President of a corporation. Under this role, the City Manager is responsible for daily operations, including hiring and firing of all employees, as well as the efficient and effective use of funds approved by the City Council through the annual budget.

Other Aiken County Cities and Towns: Burnettown ...................................................................................................... (803) 593-2676 Jackson ........................................................................................................... (803) 471-2228 Monetta/Ridge Spring. .................................................................................... (803) 685-5258 New Ellenton ................................................................................................... (803) 652-2214 North Augusta ................................................................................................. (803) 441-4202 Perry ............................................................................................................... (803) 564-5756 Salley .............................................................................................................. (803) 258-3485 Wagener .......................................................................................................... (803) 564-3412 Windsor .......................................................................................................... (803) 648-4355

Atlantic Broadband .......................................................................................... (803) 641-2144 www.atlanticbb.com

Broadcast Television WAGT - TV 26, NBC........................................................................................ (706) 826-0026 WFXG - TV 54, FOX ........................................................................................ (706) 650-5400 WJBF - TV 6, ABC........................................................................................... (706) 722-6664 WRDW - TV 12, CBS....................................................................................... (803) 278-1212

Radio Station 88.3 WAFJ Radio - Contemporary Christian ................................................... (803) 819-3125 92.7 Oldies WKSX........................................................................................... (803) 275-4444 Beasley Broadcasting ...................................................................................... (706) 396-7000 WCHZ 95.5 FM - Rock WDRR 93.9 FM - Variety Music WGAC 580 AM - News/Talk WGAC 95.1 FM - News/ Talk WGUS 102.7 FM - Religious WHHD 98.3 FM - Top 40 WKXC 99.5 FM - Country WRDW 1630 AM - Sports/Talk Clear Channel Broadcasting ............................................................................ (706) 396-6000 WBBQ 104.3 FM - Yesterday & Today WSCG G105.7 FM - Today’s Country WEKL 102.3 FM - Classic Rock WKSP 96.3 FM - Today’s R&B and Old School WPRW 107.7 FM - Hip-Hop and R&B WYNF AM - Sports

POSTAL SERVICE U.S. Post Office ............................................................................................... (803) 649-9211 www.usps.com Main Branch located at 307 Laurens Street, NW, Aiken, SC 29801 Other locations may be found by calling (800) 275-8777

LIBRARIES

TAXES

www.abbe-lib.org Aiken County Public Library ........................................................................... (803) 642-2020 Jackson Branch Library ................................................................................... (803) 471-3811 Midland Valley Branch Library ........................................................................ (803) 593-7379 Nancy Bonnette (Wagener) Branch Library ...................................................... (803) 564-5396 Nancy Carson (North Augusta) Library ........................................................... (803) 279-5767 New Ellenton Branch Library ........................................................................... (803) 652-7845

State Income Tax

MEDIA Newspapers Daily:

South Carolina has a simplified income tax structure which follows the federal income tax laws. South Carolina accepts the adjustments, exemptions and deductions allowed on your federal tax return with few modifications. Your federal taxable income is the starting point in determining your state income tax liability.

• www.sctax.org/Tax+Information • For more information, contact the Department of Revenue Publications Line at (803) 898-5405 and ask for a free copy of the “Moving to South Carolina” brochure.

Tax Rates Individual income tax rates range from 3% to a top rate of 7% on taxable income. Tax brackets are adjusted annually for inflation.

The Aiken Standard ........................................................................................ (803) 648-2311 Local/Aiken County www.aikenstandard.com

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Credits

Are there any available tax breaks?

Listed below are some of the individual income tax credits which may lower your South Carolina tax liability.

• A refundable tuition tax credit of up to 25% for tuition paid to South Carolina public and private colleges may be available for qualifying individuals. The maximum credit is $850 per year for four-year schools and $350 per year for two-year schools.

• A two-wage earner credit allows married couples to take a maximum credit of $210 if both spouses work.

• A maximum credit of $300 is available for payments made for nursing home care or intermediate nursing care provided in the home for yourself or another individual.

• A credit is allowed for income taxes paid to another state on income which is taxable in both states.

• A child and dependent care credit allows you to claim 7% of your federal allowable expenses for the care.

For all homeowners - Each homeowner is allowed an exemption up to $100,000 of the home’s fair market value from property taxes for school operating costs based on the 1995 millage (81.8). This exemption applies only to your legal residence, not to second homes, vacation homes or rental homes. No application is needed for this exemption; it will automatically be reflected in your tax bill.

Deductions to Income

Homestead exemption - As allowed under SC Code Section 12-37-250 The first fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) of the fair market value of the dwelling place of a person is exempt from county, municipal, school, and special assessment real estate property taxes when the person has been a resident of this State for at least one year and has reached the age of sixty-five years on or before December 31st, the person has been classified as totally and permanently disabled by a state or federal agency having the function of classifying persons, or the person is legally blind as defined in Section 42-25-20, preceding the tax year in which the exemption is claimed and holds complete fee simple title or a life estate to the dwelling place.

• You do not pay a tax in this state on property sold in another state.

• A deduction of 44% is allowed on net long-term capital gains; the South Carolina holding period is the same as the federal.

• Beginning with the first year you receive qualified retirement income and until you reach age 65, you can take a deduction of up to $3,000. You can take this deduction for income received from any qualified retirement plan. If both spouses receive retirement income, each spouse is entitled to a deduction.

• At age 65, all residents are eligible for a deduction of up to $15,000 from income, regardless of the source. A surviving spouse may continue to take a retirement deduction on behalf of a deceased spouse.

• Reserve pay income received from the National Guard or armed forces for the 39 days of annual training and weekend drills is exempt from tax.

• Disability income from a permanent and total disability is deductible.

• South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits or railroad retirement.

• Interest you receive from federal obligations is deductible.

• A deduction is allowed for each child under 6. The deduction is 100% of the federal personal exemption, which is adjusted each year for inflation.

• A deduction is allowed for a special needs adopted child.

Should you have questions concerning filing for Homestead Exemption, please contact the Aiken County Auditor’s Office at (803) 642-1510. All filings must be done through Aiken County. When granted, the County will notify the City of Aiken to update the tax records.

Additions to Income

To calculate your taxes on Real Property, you must have the appraised value from the Aiken County Assessor’s Office. Real property is taxed at 4% for homeowner occupied and 6% for commercial and non-occupied/rental property. The appraisal amount multiplied by the correct tax rate provides the assessment on the property.

Certain items of income must be added back to your federal taxable income.

• If any out-of-state losses were subtracted on your federal income tax return, they must be added back to your taxable income on your state return.

• The deduction on your federal return for state income tax paid must be added back to your taxable income on your state income tax return. However, it is offset by your state refund amount if you claimed it as income on your federal return.

Aiken County The South Carolina Constitution provides for the following ratios to be applied to the market value or use value of property to arrive at the assessed value: Agriculture real property (privately owned) ......................................................................4.0% Commercial real property ................................................................................................6.0% Home (legal residence) ...................................................................................................4.0% Home, second (or any residential property where you do not live) ..................................6.0% Motor vehicles, personal passenger ................................................................................6.0% Personal property ..........................................................................................................10.5%

How do I get the best tax rate for my home?

If you own a home, you want to be sure to obtain the 4% assessment rate if you live in the home and claim it as your legal residence. Otherwise, your tax rate will be 6%. To obtain the lower rate, you will need to complete an application with the County Assessor. This should be done as soon as you move into your home, but may be filed anytime before January 15, when taxes are due. Once you have filed this application, you will not need to complete another one, unless there is a deed name change, or use of the property changes. Call (803) 642-1583 for information.

Senior Tax Work-off Program - This program allows citizens 60 years or older to work for Aiken County Departments to earn an amount equal to the Aiken County portion of their property taxes on their personal residence (school taxes are not included). This program applies only to the taxes on residential properties and does not apply to commercial properties. Please call the County Administrator’s Office at (803) 642-2012 to obtain more information or an application to participate in the program.

For certain military veterans - that are 100% disabled service connected, or law enforcement officers and servicemen killed in the line of duty, paraplegics, quadriplegics and hemiplegics - A house and one acre of land on which the house is located is exempt from property tax for veterans or for their surviving spouse. Application should be made through the South Carolina Department of Revenue. Call (803) 898-5482 for information.

City of Aiken

Please note the assessment is always rounded to the nearest tenth. The assessment multiplied by the millage rate (62 mills would be multiplied by .062, 120 mills would be multiplied by .120, etc.) provides the annual property tax due.

See the following example for a homeowner occupied property assessed at $100,000: Take the assessed amount of $100,000 and multiply it by the Real Property percentage of 4%. This amount of $4,000 is the Equals Assessment amount.

Take the Equals Assessment amount and multiply that amount by the millage rate, which is currently at 62 mills.

The Equals Taxes due is $248. $100,000 X 4% = $4,000 x .062 = $248 If you do not have the official assessment, you may use this same formula to estimate taxes due based on the data you have access to, such as selling price, other appraisals, etc,.

Sales Tax • There is a 6% state sales tax imposed in Aiken County on the purchase of prepared food, personal effects and other items.

• There is a 2% local tax.

For more information contact: S.C. Department of Revenue............................................................................ (803) 898-5000 301 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC 29214 Aiken County Treasurer’s Office ....................................................................... (803) 642-2092 1930 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801

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City of Aiken Finance Department ................................................................... (803) 642-7603 135 Laurens Street, SW, Aiken, SC 29801

TELEPHONE AND INTERNET SERVICE • AT&T and Atlantic Broadband provide telephone and internet service to customers in most of Aiken County.

• Deposits for home telephone services can vary depending on your individual credit rating and type of services ordered. Often deposits are waived for customers with an excellent payment record with a previous phone carrier.

• To place an order for residential service with AT&T, contact (800) 288-2020.

• To place an order for residential service with Atlantic Broadband, contact (888) 301-8649.

Motor Voter Law If you are a United States citizens and 18 years of age or older, you may register to vote when you have a driver’s license issued or renewed. Your registration application will be forwarded to the registrar in your county of residence. You must present acceptable proof of your social security number.

WATER Aiken (City of) ................................................................................................. (803) 642-7603 Bath Water & Sewer District ............................................................................ (803) 593-3221 Beech Island Rural Community Water District ................................................. (803) 827-1004

TRANSPORTATION

Breezy Hill Water & Sewer Company............................................................... (803) 663-6455

Aiken Taxi Transport ................................................................................. (803) 642-9910

Clearwater Water & Sewer District .................................................................. (803) 593-3509

SC Express Transportation (private transit service) ................................... (803) 648-9977

College Acres Public Works District................................................................ (803) 649-5619

Best Friend Express (public transit service) ............................................... (803) 649-7981 www.bestfriendexpress.com

Edgefield County Water & Sewer Authority ..................................................... (803) 279-1503

Fares: Adults - $2.00 Seniors/Disabled - $1.00

Langley Water & Sewer Department ................................................................ (803) 593-3404

Students w/ID - $1.50 Medicare Card Holders - $1.00

Aiken Bus Station ....................................................................................... (803) 648-6894 South Carolina Department of Transportation...................................... (855) 467-2368 Augusta Regional Airport (24 miles from Aiken) ...................................... (706) 798-3236 • Is served by two airlines: Delta and US Airways. www.flyags.com Aiken Municipal Airport ............................................................................ (803) 648-7803 • Private airport located in Aiken. www.aikenaviation.com Highways • The Metro area has access to interstate highways: I-20 and I-520.

• The area is serviced by three major U.S. highways and nearly 20 state highways.

Rail System • Main line railroads serving the area include the CSX System and Norfolk Southern • Amtrak connects the region with other cities throughout the nation via rail. The two closest Amtrak stations are in Columbia and Denmark, South Carolina.

For more information about Amtrak: www.amtrak.com Reservations ............................................................................................... (800) 872-7245

VOTER REGISTRATION In order to vote, South Carolina law requires one must first register to vote at least 30 days prior to the election. To be eligible to register in South Carolina you MUST: • • • • • •

Be a United States citizen Be at least 18-years old on or before the next election Be a resident of South Carolina, this county and precinct Not be under a court order declaring you mentally incompetent Not be confined in any public prison resulting from a conviction of a crime Have never been convicted of a felony or offense against the election laws or if previously convicted, have served the entire sentence, including probation or parole, or have received a pardon for the conviction.

A citizen who wishes to register to vote can complete a voter registration application at their county board of voter registration.

Aiken County Voter Registration...................................................................... (803) 642-2028 1930 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801 When voting, you will be asked to show one of the following photo IDs at your polling place: • SC Driver’s License • ID card issued by SC Department of Motor Vehicles • SC Voter Registration Card with Photo • Federal Military ID • U.S. Passport Further information including district maps and polling locations may be found at www.scvotes.org

Jackson Water Department .............................................................................. (803) 471-2229

Monetta Water Department .............................................................................. (803) 685-5258 Montmorenci/Couchton Water District ............................................................ (803) 648-9920 New Ellenton Public Works Commission ........................................................ (803) 652-2862 North Augusta (City of) ................................................................................... (803) 441-4219 Perry Town Hall ............................................................................................... (803) 564-5756 Talatha Rural Water District ............................................... (803) 652-1381 or (803) 652-1390 Valley Public Service Authority ....................................................................... (803) 593-2053 Wagener Water Department ............................................................................. (803) 564-3412

AIKEN TAXI TRANSPORT 642-9910 • 507-TAXI (8294) Senior Citizen Discounts Airport Transportation Private Individuals Sporting Events Courier Service

Serving all of Aiken County • 24 hours a day • 7 days a week

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