Fig Aiken Fall 2022

Bringing your renovation vision to life

At Merit In Home, the designers know that home renovations are not one-sizefits-all. It takes customization and personalized attention to create a space that truly suits you and your family. When you choose Merit for your remodel, you'll work closely with a design director to bring your dreams to life. They will make a personal visit to your home to get a feel for your unique space and evaluate your current layout. Then the project manager will take over to execute your carefully crafted vision, and you'll watch as it becomes a one-of-a-kind reality.

yourintodelvetotimetakefall,This innerangotEveryone’sside.creative natureofcolorsrichtheandartist, provideseasonthisbyaboutbrought amaketoneedyouinspirationtheall own.yourofmasterpiece

IN THIS ISSUE The fall season brings an exciting reminder of the vibrant arts and culture to be found in our hometown of Aiken, SC. Make plans to see a local theatre production, catch live music in The Alley, or spend an afternoon at one of our museums, all while enjoying the gorgeous color change of the leaves.

Fig Authentic

Meet Jim Moore, the master playwright behind the musical benefit productions of the Aiken Women’s Heart Board for over 40 years.

25 Social Mission

Aiken Equine Rescue is entirely dedicated to reviving and rehoming equines in need so that they can find a loving adoptive home. Read more about their mission and how you can give back to animals in need!

36

And of course great asanddining,shopping,arts,events,community—always.KeepReading

Photo by MaryJane

PUBLISHER

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Fig Industries DIRECTOR

Brynley Farr

REGIONAL DIRECTOR

Erin Truitt

DESIGNERS

Laura Windham RJ Jackson

WRITERS

Chesson Merritt

PRODUCTION

Ashleigh ChrisCameronSimpsonHolloranFarr

Donovan McMasters Forrest Clonts Brent Cline

ALL THINGS SOCIAL

Look for Fig Aiken on Facebook and Instagram for daily coverage of local events, food, and community.

ADVERTISING IN FIG

To find out how you can strategically market your business through the Fig communications package, contact Erin Truitt at erin@byfarr.com.

Fig Industries is redefining success through social impact and environmental accountability in the communities we serve. Learn more about our B-Corp certification at figindustries.com/b-corp/.byfarr.com.atteamourmeetandmissionouraboutmoreLearn

Fig Industries, LLC has made every attempt to ensure that all information contained in this publication has been obtained from reliable sources, but all such information is provided “as is” with no guarantee of completeness or accuracy. The views of contributors do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of Fig Industries, LLC. Fig Industries, LLC cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions contained in, or reliance made upon the contents of, this publication. Copyright: Copyright 2022 © Fig Industries, LLC. All rights reserved. Photography or page layout contained in Fig shall not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the specific written permission of Fig Industries, LLC. Contact 717.394.7737 or studio@figindustries.com.

Step outside, close your eyes, and take a deep breath. Can you feel it? Fall is in the air, and we’re excited for what the new season brings to town!

Aiken has always been a city deeply rooted in the arts and culture scene, and it is never more evident than during the fall. From art gallery strolls to local art festivals, orchestra performances, theatrical productions, and art camps and classes, Aiken is the perfect place to explore and indulge in the arts. Local antique shops and art studios are speckled throughout town, each offering creative souls the opportunity to shop, discover, and expand their interests. It is with great pleasure that we bring you our Arts and Culture issue for Fig Aiken!

ERINWARMLY,TRUITT THE FIG TEAM in love with Aiken

Fall in Aiken tends to give rise to the performing arts: Joye in Aiken, Aiken Civic Ballet’s Dracula, the concert series from Aiken Symphony Orchestra, and more. All make for wonderful date night outings and events to expand your cultural experience. If you haven’t had the opportunity to take

in one of these live performances, I highly encourage you to buy tickets and make plans to be astonished by the incredible talent we have right here in Aiken. One of our favorite family traditions each autumn is to take our girls to see Dracula or The Nutcracker by the Aiken Civic Ballet. It’s always such a joy to see these beautiful performances and see how it inspires our girls to dream big!

With the new season upon us, I encourage you to get outside and explore the town. Whether on foot, bike, or horse, there is plenty to discover and enjoy right here in our hometown of Aiken. Pop into the local boutiques to find all the best picks for your fall attire, to shop the most coveted home decor, and to sip and savor all of this season’s inspired drink and food pairings.

We hope you fall in love with this Arts and Culture issue. It has been our pleasure to explore the best of Aiken and share it all with you!

Fall in love with your home

Love where you live! The Sullivan Turner Team are experts at working with you to handpick the perfect place to call home. Their extensive knowledge of Aiken and its real estate market will ensure you find the house where you, your family, and your lifestyle fit best, and their care for the clients they serve will have you feeling right at home in no time. Partner with Cissie Sullivan, Tracey Turner, and their team to discover your dream home in Aiken.

Cissie Sullivan

Tracey K. Turner

Skill & Empathy

The lawyers at Hawk Law Group strive to deliver unmatched service with care and compassion to each client who enters their office. For attorney Kip McAlister, this is second nature. His years of experience in the realm of personal injury and wrongful death ensure that he is able to confidently guide clients through the legal process. But additionally, his kind and attentive disposition allows him to serve with the utmost understanding. This winning combination of skill and empathy are what make Kip such a highly regarded member of the Hawk Law Group team.

Wrongful death

Personal injury

Nursing home neglect liability

Just this August, Dr. Carson Kight of Distinctive Dentistry found her new dental home as Director of Dentistry at the Clyburn Center of Primary Care. This change comes after 31 years of owning her private dental practice, and despite her love for her office and patients, she recognized a readiness to make a move out of that arena. She began her journey at CCPC by volunteering once a month in their dental clinic. Through that experience, Dr. Kight felt a renewed passion for dentistry and a calling to the Clyburn Center. When the opportunity to become Director of Dentistry arose, she was eager to accept the role.

The Clyburn Center for Primary Care is just one location under the umbrella of Rural Health Services, Inc., a private, non-profit health center. Their mission is to provide accessible, quality healthcare in a dignified, culturally-competent manner to residents of Aiken and the surrounding areas. In addition to dentistry, the Clyburn Center offers services in adult medicine and geriatrics, behavioral health, imaging, nutrition, OB/GYN, pediatrics, optometry, and podiatry, as well as operating an on-site pharmacy. As DOD, Dr. Kight manages both the state-of-the-art dental facility and the school-based mobile unit. She still works with patients and enjoys seeing their familiar faces, but this new position has allowed her to expand upon her gifts and practice the dental craft without the stresses involved in running a private practice. It has been an incredibly rewarding transition full of change and growth!

A passion for the practice CLYBURN PLACE

CCPC treats patients of all socio-economic statuses, races, creeds, and ethnic backgrounds with excellence and attentiveness. For first-class dental care provided by highlytrained professionals, visit Dr. Kight at the Clyburn Center.

From left: Aaliayah, and Raywaite

Southern

No Southern holiday soirée is complete without excellent food, and the Southern Way Catering team are the finest culinary experts. They have been refining and expanding upon their award-winning menus and service for nearly 40 years, striving to provide the most delectable food, the most attentive service, the most memorable presentations, and the most pleasurable event experience. They believe welcoming guests with delightful dishes and an unforgettable evening is the Southern Way, and they are prepared to help you do just that at your next celebration.

An treatementalternative

If you’re experiencing pain, impaired mobility, and muscle tension, surgery and pain medications aren’t your only options. Raines Physical Therapy + Performance offers a safe, effective alternative: dry needling. Dr. Raines and his team of physical therapists are trained and certified in this technique that involves inserting a thin needle into areas of the muscle to treat pain and increase range of motion. They’ll have you feeling healthy, strong, and pain-free once again! RICHLAND AVENUE 803.648.6900

In any season

The arrival of fall brings change and new beginnings. Students are off to school, the weather begins to cool down, and foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Autumn’s transformations are a reminder of the changing seasons of life that all are subject to. Know that no matter what stage you find yourself in, State Farm Agent Steve Mason and his team are committed to working hard to protect you and your family. They are here to help your family manage everyday risks and plan for the future.

Providing 24/7 service and insurance in the areas of: Auto Homeowners Business Life Health

Keeping smiles bright

From helmets to shinguards on the field, to mats and spotters in the gym, you take extra care to protect your children from injury when they’re competing in athletics.

DYK: Nearly 40% of all dental injuries for children are due to a sports accident. Add in an extra layer of protection this season by investing in a mouthguard. Dr. Thom and the Kitfox Pediatric team want to keep your child’s smile healthy, beautiful, and free from injury from warm up to cool down, and every minute of play in between.

A getaway for you and your pup

YOUR DOG IS PART OF THE FAMILY, shouldn’t they get to a enjoy a getaway too? In Columbia, SC, you’ll find a vibrant city with a gritty spirit in the midst of surrounding natural beauty with pet-friendly activities and amenities to boot. Pack a bag and grab the leash, because the heart of SC has a fun-filled weekend in store for you and your pet.

Stay close to all the action and make Graduate Columbia, located near the University of South Carolina, your home away from home for the weekend. Kick back and relax with your pup on an outdoor patio like Jake’s Bar & Grill or

Publico Kitchen and Tap in Five Points for drinks and small bites. At these spots, you can unwind with a cold beverage while your furry friend runs and mingles with the locals (local dogs, that is).

On Saturdays you can explore Soda City Market, which features the most creative, the most local, and the most delicious that the Columbia region has to offer, smack in the middle of Main Street! This producer-only market is where you’ll find locals browsing over 100 vendors with their four-legged friends and you can soak up all of the tastes and cultures on tap here in the

capital city. While you browse, be sure to check out some of the brick-andmortar shops along Main Street, like Mast General Store, a local favorite.

If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, you’ll want to take a trip to Congaree National Park, South’s Carolina’s only National Park and largest intact tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the U.S. Whether you’re meandering along the boardwalk or giving yourself a bit more of a challenge, a day hiking with your dog and taking in the fresh air is one you won’t soon forget. There are also plenty of trails to explore around the city

Jake’s Bar & Grill

Publico Kitchen & Tap

with the Three Rivers Greenway. This 15.5 mile (and growing) riverfront trail system that spans across three cities in the Columbia region follows the Broad, Saluda and Congaree Rivers and is your go-to network for fun in the outdoors.

Consider yourself a craft beer connoisseur? Take a self-guided brewery tour! Your pup can take part in the fun at spots like Columbia Craft, Steel Hands Brewing in Cayce, and Savage Craft Ale Works in West Columbia. You’ll appreciate the wide selection of brews and your furry friend will appreciate the patios and petfriendly atmospheres.

For the art lovers, a public art selfguided tour is a must. Columbia is filled with an abundance of walls, parks, courtyards and street corners with murals, and sculptures, just waiting to be found around every corner. Explore the vibrant public art scene in each of the walkable districts and don’t forget to snap a photo with your four-legged friend at one of the many Instagramworthy spots.

Before you leave the capital city, pick up some souvenirs to commemorate your trip. For you, pop on over to the Columbia SC Visitors Center in The Vista where you’ll find t-shirts, pint

glasses, totes, travel mugs, and so much more. For your pup, head to Modern Companion in Chapin. From the adorable bandanas and fun toys to the wide assortment of treats, it will be hard to resist buying one of everything.

However you and pup like to spend a weekend escape, you’ll find it here in Columbia, SC. Get inspired by the possibilities that await you and plan your trip at EXPERIENCECOLUMBIASC.COM.

Savage Craft Aleworks

Soda City Market

NationalCongareePark

Steel Hands Brewing

Down, set, shop!

Get ready—It’s game day! Have a winning season and be the best dressed at every tailgate, game watch party, and road trip you go on when you shop local at Ginger Bee Boutique. Owner Brooke Thomas has found fabulous fashion in all the collegiate colors that you need this fall, and the statement accessories to match it.

The SoCo difference

Beautiful art is found in more than just art studios and galleries around town—We see it every day in the natural beauty that surrounds us in the Midlands. SoCo Power is a South Carolina solar-based company that is providing the service of clean renewable energy to business, commercial spaces, and residents that reduces our carbon footprint and helps to preserve our natural resources and to keep our environment healthier for future generations. Their team works to find new solutions and to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to solar-based technology, and the provide routine maintenance, service diagnosis, and uninstall/reinstall services to keep your solar panel installation running smoothly for years. Introduce the SoCo difference to your home or office this fall—Your children and grandchildren will thank you!

PUSH yourself to new limits

Fall is here, and before you know it, we’ll be ringing in 2023 with cheers and new goals and resolutions. But what about your 2022 goal to improve your health by leveling up your workouts and enhancing your fitness abilities?

This is where Max Fitness, Aiken’s newest workout facility, comes into play! Max Fitness has everything you’d expect from a traditional gym from weight training to cardio equipment, but they go the extra mile in making workouts exciting and effective, which in turn encourages you to keep your promise to yourself to get to the gym.

One of the most popular benefits of Max Fitness is their PUSH classes. These classes work for all fitness levels, whether you’re a new mom, a seasoned runner, a beginner who is just starting their fitness journey, a professional, or an athlete. PUSH meets you where you are. The classes focus on total body workouts with various intensity training that changes every single day. Each fun, dynamic class is 1 hour long and is led by certified trainers. You can expect a different workout every day with a combination of floor work, weights, and cardio. Additionally, you’ll receive real time feedback during each workout through the use of a wearable heart monitor to help ensure you’re training in your optimal heart rate zone. Classes are available throughout the day to make it easy to fit into your schedule, too!

Maximize your fitness this fall with PUSH Fitness Zone training! Call now to receive a free week of classes.

Your local mom and pup shop

Take your four legged best friend for a leisurely walk down Laurens Street, and pop into Downtown Dog, the store for dogs and the people that love them. Sheri and Vic Scarborough have a big heart for all animals, and eight years ago, they opened the doors to their shop that features everything you need for your dog including some of the best dog food in the industry, amazing toys, unique collars, leads and harnesses, homemade treats, gifts for the dog lovers in your life, and personalized grooming services. Avoid being in the doghouse, and take your pups to Downtown Dog this fall for all the pampering and treats they could want!

The best of fine dining

Experience fine dining at its best at Woodside Country Club. There’s nothing quite like savoring a first-class meal in an upscale setting, and the Club prides itself on providing their members with truly outstanding opportunities to do so. You can expect to taste exquisite food, sip excellent drinks, and enjoy divine desserts at various events offered throughout the year. So treat yourself to five-star dinners, special wine pairings, and so much more with membership at Woodside.

Handcrafted

Bracelets, LoMonaco,

Bronze Horse Statue Poteat, Center for

Small Ceramic Center

Opening doors...

Fall fun for your calendar the change of the season comes a time for fall gatherings, whether you’re taking advantage of the cooler weather or the robust schedule of events. Our local theaters and auditoriums are raising the curtain on their new production season, football is back on TV screens at our favorite local restaurants and watering holes, and chilly nights are perfect for enjoying a dinner out with friends that lasts late into the evening. Aiken Downtown Development Association is proud to showcase all that there is to do in downtown Aiken this fall. Grab your calendar and make note of what’s in store this season in our community!

The faces behind the Coward & McNeill brand

With Mike McNeill’s many years of experience as a real estate appraiser in commercial, income producing, and development real estate and Bud Coward’s extensive experience with recreational and timber land, the two identified the need for a real estate company dedicated to commercial real estate and land. Coward & McNeill has now grown to a team of 11 and expanded to a new location in Aiken as well as an office in Enterprise Mill in Augusta, Georgia. The mission of Coward & McNeill is to assist their clients in building and growing wealth through a comprehensive and clear understanding of the intricacies of commercial real estate and land. Coward & McNeill prides itself in unparalleled knowledge and dedication to their clients that is second to none.

Commercial Real Estate Investment and Income Producing Real Estate Development, Recreational and Timber Land

From left: Mike McNeill and Bud Coward

Authentic Jim Moore

IF YOU’VE BEEN A FAN OF THE THEATRE ARTS IN AIKEN for any length over time over the last half century, it’s almost a guarantee that you have experienced a production that has included Aiken native Jim Moore’s influence. He has been active in our community as an actor, singer, and director for more than 50 years.

“I’ve always been in the church from an early age,” Jim said. “The choir especially gave me an introduction into the singing aspect. When arrived in Aiken, St. John’s United Methodist Church choir was where I met several individuals already involved in the theatre scene here in town. You can say that they recruited me from the choir, and the rest is history!”

His involvement in the theatre began as singing and acting, and then shifted

into becoming a playwright. Jim started writing the annual musical benefit productions for the Aiken Women’s Heart Board in the late 1970s, and until this year, he has been writing and directing them ever since.

“I always write the shows and hand select the music to accompany each show to make sure it is cohesive and, most importantly, enjoyable,” Jim said.

“Something as simple as a song can inspire an idea or vision for a play. A song is what inspired Three Cabelleros, another inspiration is a take on Rocket Man and being on the moon. Really, anything can inspire. I have also done things in reference to Elvis, The Beetles, and the Ed Sullivan Show.”

The musical benefit productions have been a family affair for the Moore family. Jim’s son, Jimmy Moore, has

written two plays and currently does the music for each show. His daughter, Julie Whitesell, has been in the shows for several years. All of his children grew up going to the shows or being a part of the production of them.

Jim has been with the Aiken Women’s Heart Board since 1978 and since then, there have been 44 shows (one year was skipped). He wrote 41 of those plays. The community has been extremely receptive to his playwright talents and have consistently sold out the benefit. In turn, the shows have been able to donate over $2.5 million to the American Heart Association.

“Aiken is a great home for theatre,” Jim said. “There’s a love for arts and culture here, and it’s a perfect fit for the performing arts.”

Authentic | Leading the way through innovation and example

Feel confident in your dental care

If you’re in need of advanced dental care, you can trust the Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. Through years of rigorous education and extensive experience, the talented team of surgeons are able to treat a variety of dental issues. Their areas of expertise include dental implants, wisdom tooth removal, jaw surgery, tooth extractions, and more, all performed using techniques designed for optimal patient comfort. No matter the dental issue you are facing, you can feel confident that you are receiving the finest treatment at the Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.

From Left: William A. Trotter IV, Kyle H. O'Neal, Daniel D. Scott, Bradford P. Huffman,

CFOMS.COM

Evans office

N. Augusta Office

Aiken office

Find your place and your passion

Deirdre Stoker Vaillancourt is not only a professional, informed real estate agent, but also a passionate equestrian. She’s been a successful hunter/jumper competitor throughout her life, traveling to many of the top equestrian events in North America. Her lifestyle provides her with deep connections to the Aiken community and its abundance of equestrians. And because of her enthusiasm for her own interests, Deirdre is well-aware of the important ties between your lifestyle and the place you call “home.” In addition to guiding you to find your dream property, she’s also committed to helping you plug into your passions in Aiken.

The art of dentistry

Some artists have paint brushes and paint or camera and film to create their works of art, but for Dr. Vereen, his art comes in the form of maintaining or reconstructing beautiful smiles on his patients. He carefully maps out the perfect location for every dental implant, selects the ideal crown or veneer, and artfully designs a road map to a bright smile. Dr. Vereen and his team do so with the latest in technology that puts his patients’ health and wellness at the forefront. Included in this is a recently installed Dental Cone Beam CT scanner that enhances diagnostics, and spots problem areas early to prevent future damage, allowing Dr. Vereen to provide the best quality care.

Coming Soon: Dr. Vereen is practice! Follow social construction updates.

Helping patients thrive

Got fatigue or brain fog? Feeling wired and tired or anxious and irritable?

Adrenal Fatigue is often the cause of these troublesome symptoms that are prevalent in our busy world. But the good news is that you can heal! The knowledgable, friendly team at Palmetto Wellness is able to test for and diagnose these issues. If you have blamed symptoms on age or feel like you cannot complete tasks you used to do easily, it may be time to pay them a visit. After your initial screening, they will work with you to create a tailored plan of attack and then ensure that your testing normalizes and symptoms resolve. At Palmetto Wellness & Weight Loss, the goal is for patients to thrive—not just barely survive.

Palmetto Wellness & Weight Loss integrates conventional and functional medicine to help patients overcome adrenal fatigue and a multitude of other conditions.

Cruisin’autumnthroughinAiken

What’s the best way to experience Aiken in the fall? By eBike, of course! Pedego electric bikes are your key for getting around town, enjoying the cool fall weather, and seeing the best that Aiken has to offer this season. Whether you’re sightseeing or shopping on Laurens Street, it’s never been more fun to get from one destination to the next. Hop on your Pedego and pedal—or cruise—your way through the beauty of autumn.

With a full line of 16 different bikes, you’re sure to find one that suits both you and your lifestyle!

Room to grow

Aiken Senior Life Services operates on the belief that older adults deserve a sense of independence, and they are committed to helping them age gracefully in place. Through their recent move into a new space, the organization is able to further this mission. The new 19,000 square foot building boasts a state-of-the-art kitchen, large dining room, fitness arena and more, all dedicated to serving Aiken County seniors. The expansion allows ASLS to accommodate more people than ever before to provide them with a multitude of valuable services.

AimeePictured:Hanna

Aiken Senior Life Services

Dressed for the season

Fall in love with all of the autumn favorites at Pitter Patter and Caroline’s Boutique. Pitter Patter will have your littles looking their best from the school days to the weekend adventures of apple picking, pumpkin patches, and corn mazes, while Caroline’s Boutique has the women of Aiken looking just as stylish at every occasion this season. Shop the fresh picks in store and know that you’ll be the apple of every eye with your incredible new look!

Live out your dreams

After several years of working in commercial real estate, Dr. Trey Wofford of Palmetto Vet Calls decided that real estate with its stress and busyness wasn’t where he was meant to be. He discussed his options with his wife, Melanie, and she encouraged him to follow his true passion. So with her support, he began the journey of becoming a veterinarian.

With three young children, this was not an easy path for Trey and Melanie to take. They would have been much more comfortable staying in Atlanta and living in their dream home with a steady income. But instead they packed up and moved to Tuskegee, Alabama for Trey

to attend vet school at the historically black school, Tuskegee University.

For the Woffords, living as the minority at Tuskegee was an incredible experience. The university had students from all around the world in attendance, exposing their young children to a multitude of cultures and ethnicities. And as people who had always thought themselves to be committed to racial reconciliation, this was a chance to see how it felt to be on the other side of things. Overall, Trey and Melanie felt that they were able to learn a great deal about others’ struggles all while Trey was receiving an amazing education.

The couple also learned a valuable lesson about following your dreams. Throughout the process, there were plenty of occasions where they doubted they would make it through. However, each time they began to feel discouraged, they were reminded that they were exactly where they were meant to be. Living out your passions is not always the easy route, but Trey and Melanie are proof that it’s worth the hard work. Thanks to their leap of faith, Trey is now able to do what he really loves and make a difference in the community through his meaningful work as a veterinarian.

The dream team

At Angell Molony, they know that teamwork is an essential part of serving their client’s needs. Their expert legal team has the playbook on what it means to serve a client well: great communication, hard work, honesty, proven results, and a commitment to their community. Thanks to these qualities, they have become the go-to law firm for efficient, meaningful real estate transactions. Invite Angell Molony to be a part of your team this fall and see how they help you close the deal.

Commercial and residential real estate

From Kevin Molony

Buy Aiken, win big

The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is about more than just networking with businesses in our community. They are constantly finding innovative ways to improve our town and to help our businesses grow and thrive. Last November, they launched the Buy Aiken-Red Ticket Campaign, an initiative that encouraged our neighbors to step back from online shopping and step into our locally owned stores to complete their holiday shopping. Shoppers earned 1 red ticket for every $25 spent at a participating business for a chance to win up to $5,000 in cash prizes. 34 businesses participated with over 52,000 red tickets given away equating to over $1.3 million spent locally! Aiken Chamber of Commerce hopes to increase those numbers again this year in the second edition of the Buy Aiken-Red Ticket Campaign, happening this November 1 - December 19.

To participate as a business in this year’s Buy Aiken-Red Ticket Campaign, email Emily Murphy, murphy@aikenchamber.net, or Jim Tunison, jtunison@aikenchamber.net.

Social Mission Aiken Equine Rescue

Since its founding in 2006, Aiken Equine Rescue has become one of the largest equine rescue farms in the southeastern United States. Not only are they dedicated to giving neglected horses and retired Off-The-Track Thoroughbreds a second chance at life, but they also serve as a venue for community gathering, offer interactive human-horse program opportunities, and positively impact the community in Aiken and beyond.

When a horse in need arrives at the rescue, they are provided shelter, food, water, training, and all medical, dental, and farrier care needs. The goal is to find a loving home for rehabilitated horses so they can live comfortable and happy lives. Volunteers at the rescue put their hearts into helping the animals that come into their care. “Some of the best moments

are when the love connection happens, and one our rescues becomes someone’s heart horse,” said Pam Patron, Aiken Equine Rescue’s Volunteer Marketing Coordinator. “We say good-bye with a tug at our hearts, but we know they will grow into their new life, relaxed, open minded, trusting, and happy. Knowing we had a hand in transitioning the horses into their next chapter is the most rewarding.”

The rescue also serves as a place to facilitate the transition of retired racehorses from off the track to their next career. “When a retired Thoroughbred arrives hot off the track, we pull their racing plates, quarantine them to ensure they are eating, healthy and to allow them to decompress,” said Pam. “Seeing these magnificent athletes move boldly and watching how alert

they are to everything around them is an emotional experience. They are taking the first step towards a new life.”

As a non-profit organization, the rescue relies entirely on private donations and fundraising efforts in order to provide opportunities of healing through equine education and interaction, and to provide safe and restorative homes to horses. On average, the team houses and cares for 60 horses a year, and in just that one year of operation, Aiken Equine Rescue will utilize 2,700 bales of hay, 3,120 bags of feed, and over 2,500 gallons of fuel.

While the rescue is focused on providing the best care possible to their fourlegged tenants, they are also in a phase of rebuilding. Their main barn was lost in a devastating fire in April of 2021, with a property loss total of $450,000. The

MaryJanebyPhotos

“Our mission is to keep our horses healthy so that they can be adopted and have a new beginning. This would not be possible without individual and corporate donations.”

JUDY MITTINO, VOLUNTEER

Social Mission | Making a difference in the lives of others

fire engulfed medical supplies, records, tack, feed, and the home office for the volunteers. Amidst the damage, the team has stayed positive and remains dedicated to their mission.

Aiken Equine Rescue, a recipient of the 2022 Platinum Guidestar Rating and accredited by the TAA (Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance), offers several ways for community members to get involved and donate to their cause.

When you give to Aiken Equine Rescue, you have a part in creating a happy ending for displaced and neglected equines. You’re able to help transition off-the-track Thoroughbreds who are no longer able to race, horses whose owners have passed away or are unable to care for them, and animals that have suffered from neglect. But horses are not the only ones who

will benefit from your assistance. As they say at the rescue, it is about “People Helping Horses, Horses Helping People”. The organization has a multitude of programs that work with people such as veterans, women affected by physical and sexual trauma, and at-risk youth. They have found a unique way to give back to the community by sharing the healing power that horses offer. As an Aiken Equine Rescue donor, you have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of both people and horses who are hurting.

To learn more about how you can give back to horses in need and support the rescue’s rebuilding efforts visit aikenequinerescue.org.

Indulge your sweet fangs

Vampire Penguin, locally owned by Jeanette and Ryan Moseley, is bringing the shaved snow desserts to life in downtown Aiken. Each one is light, fluffy, and creamy, and absolutely divine. Not to be confused with snow cones, these sweet creations are the best treat for any occasion! They are now also offering new Potions (drinks) with Bobas. Stop by this fall and create your own snow dessert, or try out one of their special combinations. It’s sure to be love at first bite!

Jeanette Moseley

Meet Frankie: Frankie was found severely malnourished and wandering the roads of Lexington County. He was taken into the rescue and is currently on a re-feeding program to regain his health.

EventsFall

SECOND SATURDAY SIDEWALK SALE

Monthly on the Second Saturday, 10 am –5 pm

Take advantage of special deals while also helping local animals in need by shopping at the SPCA Thrift Store’s Second Saturday Sidewalk Sale. letlovelive.org

AMP THE ALLEY

Weekly on Thursdays, 6:30 pm

Local businesses have come together to bring the community an annual concert series known as Amp the Alley, and it’s always an entertaining evening full of music and fun. ampthealley.com

HEART SHOW ENCORE

September 20 & 21, 7:30 pm

This special Encore Show will replay the music from the 2020 Heart Show including well-loved songs like Will the Circle Be Unbroken, Happy Rhythm, and The Climb. etherredgecenter.universitytickets.com

OKTOBERFEST

September 24, 4 pm –9 pm

Don your most festive German attire for the Annual Aiken Oktoberfest complete with authentic German beer, food, and music. aikendda.us

MUSIC & MOCKTAILS

September 24, 6 pm –9 pm

Bring the whole family out to Generations Park to sip refreshing mocktails and listen to live music by native South Carolina country artist Cody Webb. overflow.foundation

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

October 1, 9 am –1 pm

Allow your kids to explore vehicles of all kinds at Aiken’s 20 th annual Touch-A-Truck event, which will be followed by an inaugural power wheel race. cityofaikensc.gov

WESTERN CAROLINA STATE FAIR

October 14–23

The Western Carolina State Fair is returning for another year of delicious food, exciting rides, amusing games, and various exhibits. westerncarolinastatefair.com

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S

October 15, 9 am –1 pm

Raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research by participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. alz.org

MANE & SHELL OYSTER ROAST AND LOW COUNTRY BOIL

October 20, 6 pm –9 pm

Join Aiken Equine Rescue for their 3rd annual Mane & Shell event in support of their mission to transition horses to adoptive homes. aikenequinerescue.org

AIKEN FALL STEEPLECHASE

Aiken Steeplechase Racecourse

October 29, 9 am –5 pm

Come out to the Aiken Steeplechase to witness the races and take part in fun fallthemed activities. aikensteeplechase.com

TRUNK-OR-TREAT

October 29, 3 pm –6 pm

Kick off the Halloween festivities with trick-ortreating, carnival games, food, treats, and music at the City of Aiken’s annual Trunk-or-Treat. cityofaikensc.gov

PALMETTO PEACH HALF MARATHON, 10K & 5K

November 26, 8 am –11 am

This run will take you through two states for two times the fun! You’ll start in South Carolina, pace through Georgia, then cross the finish line back in the Palmetto State. thesrppark.com

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

November 29, 7:30 pm

Enjoy a live performance of Handel’s Messiah brought to you by the talented Aiken Symphony Orchestra. aikensymphonyorchestra.com

What do you tell yourself when you look in the mirror? If you're falling for the lie that you're not beautiful, worthy, or enough, it's time for you to have a Moxie Moment. Boost your confidence with Moxie Mirror's range of non-adhesive cling stickers, designed to interrupt the intrusive thoughts running through your head with positive reminders that your worth lies far beyond what you see in your reflection. Place a Moxie sticker on your mirror, your window, your car, or wherever you need a little extra encouragement.

REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE MIRROR.

Arriving in local boutiques this fall!