REAL.
Personal.
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.
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Get to know the Family. Aiken Regional Just open the
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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.
See inside for a full listing of physicians and services.
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REAL.
Personal.
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 H E A L
Get to know the Family. Aiken Regional Just open the
page.
THCARE
.
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.
See inside for a full listing of physicians and services.
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Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce Physical Address 121 Richland Avenue, East Aiken, SC 29801
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Mailing Address P.O. Box 892 Aiken, SC 29802
Phone: (803) 641-1111 Fax: (803) 641-4174 www.aikenchamber.net
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Copyright 2014 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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Contents F E A T U RES
12 International aiken 18
by Cynthia Delaney
19
14
16
polo
industry
university of south carolina aiken
by Pam Gleason
by Cynthia Delaney
by Patti McGrath
by Will Callicott
Polo was introduced in Aiken in 1882 and quickly dominated the Aiken sports scene. By the turn of the 20th century, the sport was attracting players from Argentina and Great Britain. Today, its popularity continues to grow, attracting players from all parts of the world to Aiken.
Aiken County is home to several international industries that contribute to the area’s industrial and manufacturing base. These companies, along with the U.S. companies, provide a stable working environment and strengthen Aiken County’s economic base.
The University of South Carolina Aiken believes in the benefits of an international education for everyone on its campus. Whether it’s international students who come to Aiken to study, or U.S. students going abroad to study, the university is committed to a global educational endeavor.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) is one of only 13 in the United States. Located at the Savannah River Site in Aiken County, the lab collaborates with other countries to find innovative solutions and develop new technologies for international security, clean energy, and environmental challenges.
savannah river national lab
d e pa r tm e n t s 36 Housing Options
54 Education
o n t h e co v e r
40 Quality of Life
58 Retirement
46 Health Care
60 Relocation Information
50 Economy & Employment
65 Business
From the Winter Colony days, when the Duke and Duchess of Windsor mingled and danced at the Willcox Inn, to the legacy (and enduring play) of polo, Aiken has enjoyed an international presence. Today, in addition to history and polo, the city attracts students and industry from around the world.
21 Corporate Profiles 10
Resource Guide
Read about “International Aiken” beginning on page 12.
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International
Aiken By Cynthia Delaney
iken’s beginning connection to the international world dates back to the late 1800s when wealthy Northerners flocked to Aiken to spend their winters in the ideal climate. Intrigued by the many opportunities for equestrian sports, they brought with them horses, money and a strong desire to make their playground the best it could be, establishing what became known as Aiken’s “Winter Colony.” By the turn of the 20th century, word of the delightful winter escape complete with equine sports spread to South America, across the Atlantic, and to other parts of the world. Polo players from Argentina and Great Britain traveled to Aiken to hone their skills during the winter, and the town’s prominence as a polo destination grew.
Eventually, the Winter Colony caught the attention of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. The stylish and intriguing couple visited Aiken in its heyday, staying at the Willcox Inn built by Englishman Frederick Willcox and his Swedish-born wife. The popular inn was known for its old-world charm, stunning beauty, impeccable service, and lavish parties with dancing that lasted well into the evening. It was here that the Duke and Duchess mingled with America’s elite and famous – Mrs. John Jacob Astor, Harold Vanderbilt, the Averill Harrimans, the Mellons, and Elizabeth Arden, among others. Today, Aiken’s connection to the international world has grown to encompass many aspects of the community. The popular sport of polo has grown and now attracts players from all over the world – South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Large industries from Japan, Germany, France, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom call Aiken home. The local university welcomes international students and encourages U.S. students to travel abroad to learn about other cultures and to understand business on a global level. And the National Lab, one of only 13 in the U.S., collaborates with other countries to find innovative solutions and develop new technologies for international security, clean energy and environmental challenges.
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Polo by Pam Gleason
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Winston Churchill is famous among polo players for having said “A polo handicap is the best passport in the world.” Polo players from all nations have an entrée into an international society of players; people who might not share the same language or customs, but who have the same love for horses and for the game. Many players who are based in Aiken have used their polo passports to travel to exotic locales all over the world, where they have represented their country in prestigious international tournaments, or have simply played for fun in casual matches. Meanwhile, polo in Aiken attracts traveling players from South America, Europe and Asia who come here to play in tournaments during the spring and fall seasons. Some of these players fall in love with Aiken and set up their own houses and farms in the area. Polo is an international sport, and its prominence in Aiken adds to the city’s surprisingly cosmopolitan aura. Aiken’s importance in international polo has a long history. Back in the early part of the 20th century, some of the best players in the country spent their winters practicing in Aiken. These players included Harry Payne Whitney and Devereux Milburn, two 10-goalers players who were half of America’s “Big Four,” a team that was undefeated in international play and won the Westchester Cup matches against Great Britain in 1909, 1911 and 1913. Tommy Hitchcock, born in 1900, learned to play on Aiken’s fields, and was a member of America’s winning international team by 1921. He went on to become the most famous polo player in the world, competing successfully in England and Argentina before his accidental death in 1944. (He died in England while test-flying a Mustang fighter.) In the 1960s, Northrop Knox, who had a winter home in Aiken, took his teams to Argentina to play for the Copa de las Americas. There were many other Aiken players who competed internationally: Pete Bostwick, Alan Corey, Jr., Seymour Knox and Louis Stoddard, to name a few. Players from overseas also came to Aiken from very early on. Among them was Dicky Santamarina, from a prominent Argentine family, who came to Aiken after meeting Frances Post. Frances, an expert horsewoman and polo player herself, had accompanied her father, Billy Post, an Aiken trainer and breeder, to the Copa de las Americas series in Buenos Aires in 1932. Frances and Dicky were married in 1939 in a garden wedding at
the Post’s Aiken home that was said to have been the highlight of the spring season. They returned to live in Argentina but came back to Aiken twice a year, forging many strong ties between Aiken and South America. Today, Aiken is home to a number of American players who have represented the U.S. in international matches. These include Adam Snow, a former 10-goaler who lives in the “polo corridor” along Route 302 in Aiken County. Adam has extensive international playing experience, competing in North and South America, England, the Far East, Europe and Australia. He also played for America in the Westchester Cup against Great Britain in 1992 and 2009. His teammates in 1992 included his next-door neighbor Owen Rinehart, as well as John Gobin, who lives just up the road. Owen Rinehart’s international credentials also include representing America in the Camacho Cup against Mexico, as well as in the Coronation Cup in England. These days, Owen is particularly well-known for a polo pony breeding and training program that he runs with his wife Georgina, who comes from Kenya. The Rineharts’ foundation sires are two stallions imported from Argentina, both gifts from Dicky Santamarina. Almost any polo match in Aiken will include players from other countries. Some of these players have moved here from overseas, such as Marcos and Horacio Onetto, who came here from Argentina, or Julian Daniels who hails from England. Others come to play for a season or a single tournament, and Aiken has entertained some of the best players in the world, including the Argentine superstar Adolfo Cambiaso. One of the most cosmopolitan events in Aiken is the annual Aiken Ladies Invitational held in the fall, which regularly draws players from England, Argentina and Jamaica. One player, Sherri Lyn Hensman, regularly flies in from Zimbabwe. Wherever there is polo, there is a certain sense of internationalism, since players are often quite eager to practice their sport in foreign countries. Polo in Aiken is no exception, and the sport’s prominence here ensures that this small city in the South remains in constant contact with a vibrant international community of players. Even if they never set foot on foreign soil, Aiken’s players become part of the greater world of the sport, a place where a polo handicap is the only passport required.
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Photo courtesy of Tognum America Inc.
industry
iken County enjoys an international presence in its industrial and manufacturing base and continues to attract companies from around the world. Countries, such as Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, Finland, and Switzerland have established successful manufacturing operations in Aiken. These international companies complement U.S. grown industry and strengthen the area’s economy. Among the companies that bring a strong global presence to the Aiken area are Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations (Japan), Tognum America (Germany), Autoneum North America (Switzerland), Metso Paper USA (Finland), Newman Technology SC (Japan), BAE Systems (United Kingdom), BOC Gases (United Kingdom), and Shinsho American Corporation (Japan). Several of these companies have expanded in recent years, bolstering the economy even more.
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Japanese owned Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, a subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, has been in Aiken for 15 years. The passenger and light truck tire manufacturer’s initial investment in 1999 represented nearly $535 million. Bridgestone recently completed a 474,000-square-foot expansion to the existing plant and is currently completing the construction of a new off-road radial tire plant for the production of large and ultra-large tires. The two-project $1.2 billion investment marked Bridgestone Corporation’s largest single investment in the North America manufacturing market and the largest single investment ever for the state of South Carolina. When both plants are fully operational, Bridgestone will employ nearly 2,000 people. When MTU Detroit Diesel, a division of the German based Tognum Group, announced in March 2010 that it was relocating production of its Series 2000 and 4000 diesel engines from Detroit,
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by Cynthia Delaney
Michigan to Aiken County, the company promised to invest $45 million and to create 250 new jobs over four years. Seven months later, production of the engines used in ships, industrial equipment, and land defense vehicles began. Within two years, the company, now Tognum America, Inc., met both its investment and new jobs pledge to the community – and announced an expansion. The announcement, made in March 2012, promised a $40 million investment and another 20 new jobs and is near completion. “Our continued growth is a testament to the hard work of our employees and the support we have received from the community,” says Joerg Klisch, the director of operations for Tognum America. “The expansion of our operations here at the Aiken facility will be a great benefit to our company, our customers, and our community for years to come.” According to Will Williams, director of the local Economic Development Partnership, the presence of international industry in Aiken County has grown in the past 10 to 15 years. “The FDI, or Foreign Direct Investment, is showing a definite uptick. As the economy in Asia and Europe change and the populations decrease, more international companies will invest in the U.S.,” Williams says, adding that the earthquake and subsequent Tsunami in Japan in 2011 diversified the supply chain around the world. Japan’s devastating natural disaster crippled its economy and rippled around the world. As with so many industries, UPS Customs Brokerage in Aiken, S.C. (UPS Aiken) felt the impact. As one of the largest international trade operations in the global UPS network, UPS Aiken employs 450 people who manage customs clearance and other trade-related functions for international shipments moving across the country and around the world. UPS Aiken electronically connects with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to help ensure that small package and freight shipments moved into the U.S. via air, ocean, truck and rail get cleared accurately and efficiently. UPS Aiken opened its doors in 2001 and rapidly became an integral part of the economy and the Aiken community. In addition to being one of the community’s larger employers, UPS Aiken also attracts a number of international visitors and guests who enjoy the richness and hospitality of the community. As the world continues to become flatter and smaller, UPS Aiken continues to increase its role as both a facilitator of trade for global economy and an integral piece of the Aiken fabric.
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University OF South Carolina Aiken
By Patti McGrath
he University of South Carolina Aiken believes in the benefits of an international education. USC Aiken’s International Program helps both international students and students from the United States develop understanding and respect for one another while preparing the new generation to succeed in a global environment. “Many international students come to the United States primarily because the educational level is higher,” says Maria Anastasiou, director of International Programs at USC Aiken. “As a top-rated regional public university, USC Aiken is able to provide an excellent education to international students at an affordable cost.” It is through faculty-to-student and student-to-student interactions that international students learn our language and cultures. They have the opportunity to get involved on and off campus learning first-hand what life is like in America. In return, students, faculty and staff begin to understand cultural differences from international students. “For those who are unable to travel abroad and experience other cultures, having international students on campus is a way to bring the world to our university,” said Anastasiou. It was faculty attention that appealed to international student Tomáš Greizinger. “At USC Aiken students, were not just numbers or unknown names on the professors’ rosters,” Greizinger said. Greizinger of Slovakia is an excellent example of an international student who has excelled. He graduated summa cum laude in May 2013 with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and was named the Outstanding Senior Student of his class. “It was a dream to come to the United States to pursue a college degree,” states Greizinger. “I am grateful for the opportunity I was given.”
For students wishing to travel to other countries to learn, the University’s School of Business Administration (SOBA) offers the Study Abroad Program. Since the program began, students have traveled to several countries, including Germany, Italy, Austria and the Czech Republic. “The purpose of the SOBA Study Abroad Program is to expose USC Aiken students to international business and prepare them for the ever changing global world we live in,” says Dr. Sanela Porca, organizer of the SOBA Study Abroad Program. This year, fifteen students traveled to London, England and Paris, France for two weeks, visiting various companies, cultural sites, and tourist locations. By visiting businesses like GE International and United Airlines, students were able to see how other countries’ business practices varied from the United States. “The SOBA trip taught me how to respect different cultures, and it also showed me how lucky I am to have grown up in the United States,” said student Grayson Broske, a senior sociology major. “I believe every student should travel abroad to experience another culture and to gain appreciation for that culture as well as their own.” USC Aiken is committed to establishing international educational partnerships. Last year, University Chancellor Dr. Sandra Jordan met with educational leaders in Cumbria in the United Kingdom to discuss ways to enhance their communities by improving educational opportunities for students in both countries. The discussions included faculty exchanges, student exchanges, jointly sponsored international conferences and symposia, faculty research collaborations, and the exchange of ideas leading to long lasting educational partnerships. Other USC Aiken international partnerships in progress include building relationships in Granada, India, and France. Technology may have changed the way people learn and do business, but to those at USC Aiken, there is no replacement for a handshake and a smile around the world.
Photo courtesy of USC Aiken
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i n t e r n at i o n a l a i k e n
Savannah River National Lab
Photo courtesy of SRNL
hile its name denotes “National,” the U.S. Department of Energy’s Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) has a reach that is international in scope. SRNL is a multi-program laboratory, serving federal agencies and other customers primarily in the areas of national security, clean energy and environmental stewardship. While the Laboratory’s original focus was research and development support for the startup and operation of the Savannah River Site, SRNL has become much more than a purely local resource. One of the most notable international efforts today for SRNL involves the earthquake and tsunami-damaged Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station in Japan. Since the 2011 natural disaster, SRNL researchers have been part of an ongoing
By Will Callicott
exchange with the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) about the cleanup process for the plant. SRNL and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) signed a contract in 2012 to provide recommendations on some of TEPCO’s highest priority technical issues, and the critical international collaboration began. For SRNL’s Dr. Jeff Griffin, Fukushima represents “almost every remediation challenge we’ve seen in the environmental management complex, all within three and a half square kilometers.” “This is a unique arrangement for national labs to provide this level of international assistance,” adds Griffin. “From our experience at our respective sites, we and PNNL have a wealth of relevant knowledge about possible options, and an important part of our mission as national laboratories is the sharing of that knowledge within the global community in what is clearly an unprecedented situation.” SRNL’s international work extends beyond its environmental expertise. The Lab and the site provide resources to help consolidate, store, package and transport proliferant nuclear materials from around the world to secure locations. A multiyear effort to remove material from Sweden, for example, has been a central example of success under the U.S. Global Threat Reduction Initiative. Other nonproliferation work remains ongoing. SRNL has also developed a Mobile Plutonium Facility, a rapid response capability that can be deployed anywhere in the world to characterize, package and ship materials to a secure location. International collaboration extends into the energy arena as well; the German company BASF, for example, is a collaborator with SRNL on research into natural gas applications for automobiles and other light vehicles. Other worldwide partners continue to look to SRNL for innovative solutions in the lab’s core business areas.
Photo courtesy of SRNL
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Corporate Profiles
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corporate profile
AgSouth Farm Credit
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gSouth Farm Credit is part of the Farm Credit System, a nationwide network of agricultural and rural lending cooperatives founded by farmers in 1916. Our mission is to provide sound and dependable credit to farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness – a mission we’ve fulfilled for nearly a century. AgSouth Farm Credit helps maintain and improve the quality of life for farmers and rural Americans by providing competitive loans and expert financial services. We pride ourselves on building lasting partnerships with our customers. Because we’re a cooperative, our customers are our owners. We operate for the benefit of our customers and share our profits with them through our Patronage Refund Program. For years, this program has reduced the cost of borrowing for our customers, and we can do it for you, too. Whether you farm full-time or part-time, or just want a place in the country, the experienced professionals at AgSouth Farm Credit can provide financing to fit your needs.
www.agsouthfc.com (803) 648-6818 951 East Pine Log Rd, Aiken , SC 29803
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FOR YOUR FARM: • Real estate • Pasture, crop, and timberland • Grove and orchard development • Poultry and livestock facilities • Barns, stables, sheds, and grain bins • Farm residences • Operating expenses • Buying or leasing machinery, equipment, vehicles, and buildings
FOR YOUR HOME AND LIFE IN THE COUNTRY • Lots • Country homes • Buying, building, or refinancing • Specializing in homes with acreage • Remodeling and home improvements • Hunting tracts • Recreational property • Cattle, horses, and other livestock • Livestock and utility trailers FOR YOUR AGRIBUSINESS • Nurseries and greenhouses • Poultry and livestock operations • Gins and processing facilities • Timber and sawmill operations • Farm-related businesses
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corporate profile
Aiken Technical College
F
or over 40 years, Aiken Technical College has educated and trained students to become part of the workforce that supports the economic growth and community development of the greater Aiken County area. A public, open-door, two year institution, ATC provides citizens opportunities for educational, economic, professional, social and personal development. Approximately 3,000 students are enrolled in associate’s degree and certificate programs in various high demand fields, and more than 217,000 students have attended ATC in its history. ATC offers more than 80 academic programs in business, education, engineering, finance, health sciences, information technology, manufacturing, marketing, nuclear, public safety and technology. University transfer options, dual enrollment programs for high
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school students and youth enrichment opportunities are also available. Hands-on training and internships with industry partners provide students the skills needed to be successful in the workplace. Healthcare offerings remain among ATC’s most popular, with credentials in fields including nursing, medical coding, medical assisting, dental assisting, electronic health records, patient care assistant, pharmacy technician, surgical technology, radiological technology and paramedic. Responding to a resurgence of the nuclear industry regionally, ATC developed a radiation protection technology program in 2008, and a nuclear quality systems program in 2012. In order to continue providing the highest quality training, ATC is working toward construction of the Center for Energy and Advanced Manufacturing, which will house the nuclear, welding and mechatronics programs.
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corporate profile
City of Aiken
W
ith a quality of life matched by few other communities, you will find Aiken filled with personal and professional opportunity. Aiken proudly offers amenities and a diversity of programs that make it the ideal place to call home or visit. From sports programs for children and adults at Citizens Park and the newly built Splash Park to the H. O. Weeks Activities Center there is no lack of opportunity for those seeking recreation in Aiken. At Odell Weeks you’ll find a public park, playground, walking track, tennis center and indoor recreation opportunities. Dedication to preserving Aiken’s green spaces also contributes to the quality of life you will experience in Aiken. The Colleton Avenue Arboretum Trail, launched in 2013, offers an opportunity for explorers to learn about the many varieties of trees of Aiken via a mobile tour. Hopelands Gardens offers daily occasion for strolling beautiful pathways within the city limits. Seasonal concerts, story time in the gardens and holiday celebrations abound in this beautiful park. The Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame is found just inside the serpentine walls surrounding the Gardens. Aiken’s retail and dining opportunities continue to grow. New restaurants are choosing Aiken while both chain and locally owned shops fill the shopping areas. Throughout Aiken you will find restaurants that offer a familiar meal and those that offer one of a kind dining opportunities. From clothing stores and boutiques to a candy shop filled with goodness, new residents and visitors will find just what they’ve been looking for in the unique downtown shops of Aiken.
Businesses opportunities abound in Aiken! Throughout Aiken you will find companies with national and international offices. Their employees choose to live in Aiken! Whether you’ve chosen Aiken for a weekend or a lifetime, you’ll want to start your discovery at the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum on Park Avenue. Hours of operation for the Center (as well as other opportunities for discovering Aiken) can be found at www.VIsitAikenSC.com or by calling (803)293-7846.
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corporate profile
ASCO Valve, Inc.
F
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. With tens of thousands of models available, you’ll find just the right solutions for your demanding application. ASCO makes the world’s most reliable flow control solutions — delivered and serviced with exceptional speed and responsiveness. Some last up to 500 million cycles; many are shipped within one day with our ASCO Today program. 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
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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corporate profile
Carolina Musculoskeletal Institute
C
arolina Musculoskeletal Institute is a multi-specialty medical practice specializing in diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the muscle and skeletal systems. CMI specializes in sports medicine, hip and knee replacements, general orthopedics, podiatry, rheumatology, neurology, pain management, neurology, and radiology. Our eleven board certified physicians offer full musculoskeletal care for our patients. Founded in 1980 as Carolina Orthopaedics by Dr. Clark Moore, Carolina Musculoskeletal Institute has grown to 11 physicians, in two locations. The main office and imaging center are located at 410 University Parkway, next to Aiken Regional Hospital. The Podiatry division is located in historic downtown Aiken on Richland Avenue. Aiken has an active sports community with athletes of all ages and Carolina
Main Office 410 University Parkway Aiken, SC 29801 803-644-4264 Podiatry Division 721 Richland Avenue Aiken, SC 29801 803-649-3668
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Musculoskeletal Institute offers full sports medicine services to youth, active adults, and older athletes. We provide treatment of sports injuries, breaks, sprains, tears, even concussions. And we help athletes get back into the game and play again. Carolina Musculoskeletal’s Imaging Center includes the most powerful MRI machine in the community. CMI Imaging services can perform x-rays, CT scans, and MRI studies under one roof. And our in-house board certified radiologist can read and interpret your imaging studies usually within 24 hours, possible even the same day if necessary. CMI is the only practice in the Aiken area that can perform the state-of-the-art anterior hip replacement, providing patients with a smaller incision, and significantly faster recovery time than traditional hip
replacements. Treatment can be performed in Aiken, without the need to travel to Augusta. From diagnosis, through to recovery, all hip replacement treatments are managed close to your home. Other conditions Carolina Musculoskeletal Institute treats includes a variety of arthritis conditions, migraine headaches and neurological issues, dementia, diabetic foot care and more. CMI is constantly updating both medically and administratively regarding the healthcare technology. Our new electronic patient records system, new imaging system, and coming soon, an additional location on Aiken’s south side will continue to provide Aiken with the highest degree of professional healthcare available in any town anywhere in the United States.
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corporate profile
Crazy Vapor, LLC
C
razy Vapors is an electronic cigarette, e-liquid, and accessory store. Crazy Vapors opened their first location in Augusta, GA in December 2012, and more recently, opened their second location in Aiken in October 2013. Serving the community, Crazy Vapors strives to give people an alternative to smoking cigarettes by providing battery operated, water vapor, electronic cigarettes. The Crazy Vapor’s staff includes experienced and knowledgeable staff members who are willing to assist you with your e-cig or answer any questions you may have. Not only does the company provide electronic cigarettes, but also 170 plus e-liquids that are handmade by owner, Craig Perryman. Flavors range from classic M-Boro to flavors like Crazy Rainbow and Twisted
Crazy Vapors - Augusta 123 Davis Road, Suite A Augusta, GA 30907 706-305-3892 Crazy Vapors - Aiken 778 Silver Bluff Road Aiken, SC 29803 803-226-0385 www.crazyvapors.com info@crazyvapors.com
Java. Crazy Vapors also supplies a range of accessories for all your vaping needs! In addition to serving the Aiken and Augusta communities, Crazy Vapors hosts a website for customers to place online orders (www.crazyvapors.com). Along with online ordering, Crazy Vapors has many businesses from around the country that place wholesale orders through the company. In appreciation of police, fire, EMT’s, retired or non-active military, and other civilian service fields, Crazy Vapors offers a 10% discount to service personnel, with a special discount of 20% for active military. The company also has a referral program, where customers can refer a friend and earn free bottles of e-liquid.
What makes Crazy Vapors stand apart from other e-cig companies is the fact that the owner, Craig Perryman, cares so much about his customers; “Taking a leap of faith, I left a full-time job that I held for over 11 years to open the store as I believe in the products I sell and enjoy helping people.” On his business cards, Perryman lists his own personal phone number for customer’s to reach him any time of day. It is not common in the business world that customers can interact with the owner of the company, but with Crazy Vapors, this is the standard! Quality service and products are a hallmark feature for Crazy Vapors.
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corporate profile
Duplicating Systems, Inc.
S
o what does Duplicating Systems (DSI) have in common with Dogwood Stable? Both companies are champions. Dogwood Stable’s Palace Malice won the 2013 Belmont Stakes. Duplicating Systems is celebrating serving the CSRA for 30 years. Duplicating System’s work with Dogwood Stable started 20 years ago with the sale of a copier to Treasurer Bill Victor shortly after Victor and DSI Owner Scott Thurmond both arrived in the Aiken area. Although still in Victor’s office, and operational, Victor admits that today it gets little use because of the many advantages of the new Savin copier. For example, the machine’s mail merge capability attaches a prospectus to individual letters sent from another office. As a breeder of race horses, Dogwood Stable looks for similar qualities in vendors as it does in horses: • Speed: Not only speed of copying but speed in responding to requests. • Endurance: Just as the stable looks for horses that can go the distance of the classic races such as the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness and the Belmont Stakes, they look for endurance in office equipment. • Reliability: A horse must be consistently reliable. Remaining with a company for 20 years speaks volumes. “These qualities are simply the DSI way,” says Thurmond, who is proud of the many companies who have been with DSI for decades—some since the opening of the Augusta office. scan this code with your phone or tablet to visit our website
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Duplicating Systems, Inc. 507 CDP Industrial Blvd., Ste 2 Grovetown, GA 30813 706-737-6482
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corporate profile
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 Way’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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corporate profile
Mead Hall Episcopal School St. Thaddeus Episcopal Church
W
ith the founding of Mead Hall in 1955, St. Thaddeus Episcopal Church made a commitment to Christian education and a commitment to Aiken. For nearly 60 years the parishioners and clergy have supported the school’s mission and nurtured its families. In 2012 St. Thaddeus warmly embraced the school’s merger with Aiken Prep, and it continues to recognize the parish’s day school as its most important ministry. Today, Mead Hall Episcopal School operates an accredited, college-preparatory program of academics, arts, and athletics for students in 3K to 12th grade. We honor the history, the legacies, and the traditions of Aiken Prep, Aiken Day, and Mead Hall, and we look forward to building a new future as we continue to shape the hearts and minds of children in the presence of God.
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St. Thaddeus Campus (3K – Grade 4) 129 Pendleton Street, SW Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 644-1122
Church Office 125 Pendleton Street, SW Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 648-5497
Aiken Prep Campus (Grades 5-12) 619 Barnwell Avenue, NW Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 648-3223
Sunday Worship Schedule 7:45 AM Holy Eucharist, Rite I 9:00 AM Holy Eucharist, Rite II 11:00 AM Holy Eucharist, Rite II
www.meadhallschool.org
www.stthaddeus.org
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corporate profile
MTU Aiken Plant
T
he MTU Aiken Plant is the centerpiece of Tognum America’s manufacturing operations, producing world-class diesel engines for a multitude of off-highway markets including construction, industrial, power generation, oil & gas, marine, mining and defense. What began in the fall of 2010 with the assembly of Series 2000 and 4000 engines has now grown to include the overhaul of military propulsion systems and the machining of components such as cylinder heads and flywheel housings. Construction of additional research and development facilities, as well as a new administration building, were also recently completed. The 366,726 square foot state-of-the-art manufacturing facility is conveniently located off Interstate 20 in Graniteville, South Carolina, just 130 miles from the port at Charleston. It is well suited to get parts to the line and engines to our customers quicker than ever before. The plant represents an $85 million investment by the Tognum Group. It also represents a boost to the local economy, employing more than 250 people. And that’s just the beginning. In addition to building engines, Tognum is also active in supporting the community. For example, a new apprenticeship program for local area high school students was recently implemented by the company in conjunction with Aiken County Schools and Aiken Technical College. The goal of the program is not only to develop potential new employees but to provide new education opportunities to Aiken County students. With a highly skilled workforce and plenty of room to grow, MTU is well prepared to meet the power and propulsion needs of North America today and for years to come.
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corporate profile
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 “Old Post Office� 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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corporate profile
Troy University
W
hether you are attending college for the first time, returning to complete your education, or pursuing a specialized degree, the search for the right educational fit can be an overwhelming task. So why not start at the beginning – the foundation of the university. Founded in 1887, with the motto “Educate the mind to think, the heart to feel, and the body to act,” Troy University’s continuing mission is to prepare future leaders through teaching the importance of service to the community. According to TROY Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., “TROY is not trying to be all things to all people, but what we promise in preparing tomorrow’s leaders through service, ethics and patriotism, we do very well.” TROY’s founding principles have remained steadfast for more than a century. With in-class and online programs in fields like business, education, computer science, and criminal justice, students can pursue an in-demand education with a university that continues to receive accolades from the nation’s top publications. TROY has been recognized by the Princeton Review as “one of the best in the Southeast,” by U.S. News & World Report as “one of the top universities in the South,” and by Military Times as “a top university for troops.” TROY is the right university to help you meet your educational goals. Visit troy. edu/apply or call 800-473-0975 for more about Troy University. scan this code with your phone or tablet to visit our website
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corporate profile
The University of South Carolina Aiken
T
he University of South Carolina Aiken has been a proud member of the Aiken community for 52 years. The University opened its doors in 1961 in a downtown mansion named Banksia, and has grown tremendously. The campus is located now on University Parkway with 453 acres. USC Aiken offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees to more than 3,200 students, with 49 degrees and programs available. The quality of the institution is nationally known as well. USC Aiken is ranked the #1 public regional college in the South by U.S. News and World Report’s guide “America’s Best Colleges.” 2013 marks USC Aiken’s 15th consecutive ranking among the top three in this category and its 9th time in first place. In addition, USC Aiken is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
USC Aiken has twice been designated as a “military friendly school” by nationally distributed G.I.Jobs. The University recently opened the Veteran Student Success Center on campus for military students and their families. USC Aiken also offers the full student experience. The USC Aiken Pacer athletic teams consistently receive national rankings with sports including golf, basketball, tennis, and baseball. There are more than 90 student organization programs. Students can live in student housing on campus. From a stellar athletic department to cultural events, the University has it all. scan this code with your phone or tablet for a video message
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corporate profile
The Willcox
T
he South’s finest hospitality awaits you at The Willcox. Voted one of the best hotels in the world by Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast magazines, The Willcox cultivates a sophisticated, yet informal glamour amidst South Carolina’s storied Thoroughbred country. In its 115 years, The Willcox has served as the playground for nobility, statesmen and captains of industry, but more than anything, as the community’s living room. Guest rooms are comfortable retreats, luxuriously appointed. All are quiet and sumptuous, with high ceilings, crown moldings and restful, cloud-soft beds blanketed in cool, crisp linen. Most have crackling fireplaces and each has its own character.
Room rates starting at $189 Suite rates starting at $300 The Restaurant Monday – Saturday 11:30am – 10pm Sundays 9am – 9pm The Spa Open daily from 8am – 7pm
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The award-winning restaurant is a local favorite and a must for hotel guests. The full menu is available to be served anywhere on the property – in room, at the pool, on the porch or beside the fireplaces. Two private dining rooms provide handsome spaces for parties and business presentations. Rejuvenation reigns supreme in the full service Salon & Spa. Peace of mind and bodily balance are reclaimed in the serene, fire lit rooms, orchestrated by expert spa therapists. A salt water pool and intimate exercise room round out the amenities. The Willcox represents the casual glamour of a bygone era. Gracious, genteel, understated, yet sophisticated and hospitable, The Willcox is the quintessential Southern experience.
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© Bob Durand Jr.
Great variety of es! architectural styl
AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA
R
eal estate continues
lifestyle groups, includ-
to be a good invest-
ing single- and multi-
ment in Aiken, and
story homes that appeal
housing options are plen-
to young professionals,
tiful – historic homes and
families, and retirees.
charming cottages, condo-
The remaining available
miniums and townhouses,
homes include100 condo-
large equestrian estates,
miniums and townhouses,
golf communities with na-
66 manufactured homes,
ture trails, and retirement
and 124 horse properties,
communities with endless amenities. There are about 1,700 homes for sale in Aiken, which reflects a
© Bob Dur and Jr.
Housing Options
$166,115. (August 2013)
go wrong making a real
reflecting a strong eques-
“The current trend re-
estate investment if you
trian element in the real
flects a bit of softening in
do your homework and
estate market. (Statistics
the sales prices, meaning
purchase the right type
from August 2013)
there are a lot of good bar-
of home or investment
Prices have seen a de-
gains in the Aiken area,”
property. Don’t forget
.2% increase in available
crease from last year with
says Sally Brodie, a past
that your home is an in-
homes over last year.
the median price decreas-
president of the Aiken
vestment, but most of all
Approximately 1,400
ing 4.8% to $140,950
Board of Realtors
it is a place to live, play,
of the homes echo the
and the average sales
tastes of various age and
price decreasing 1.4% to
36
“Now is a great time to buy a home. You can’t
relax, and enjoy,” says Brodie.
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ONE COMPANY.
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Subject to terms, conditions and availability. Savings vary. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company, Allstate Vehicle and Property Insurance Company: Northbrook, Illinois © 2011 Allstate Insurance Company.
AIKEN COST OF LIVING INDEX third QUARTER
44925
One agency for all your insurance needs.
Augusta-Aiken GA/SC MSA 2013
(100% Composite Index)
85.9
Grocery
(13.36%) 89.3
Housing
(28.64%) 68.6
Utilities
(10.46%) 97.2
Transportation
(10.66%) 90.7
Health Care
(4.44%)
90.3
Misc. Services
(32.44%)
92.9
COMPARISON Asheville, NC
Atlanta, GA
Hilton Head, SC
93.5
100.8
95.7
103.8
Charleston, SC Columbia, SC
105.2
For comparison to your area visit www.aikenchamber.net
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© Bob Durand Jr.
ition The absolute defin ! of southern charm
AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA
I
f you are looking for
distinctiveness often
a place that offers all
unheard of in today’s
the amenities you’ll
world, where affordable
© Bob Dur and Jr.
Quality of Life ever need, a place that
housing, award-
officials, community
offers a perfect balance
winning schools, diverse
leaders, retirees, young
between the charm and
recreational opportunities,
professionals, parents and
So, whether you plan
grace of yesterday and the
and a progressive
students is the foundation
to come and visit or to
promise of tomorrow, you
approach to business go
upon which Aiken draws
live here, you will find
will find it in Aiken, South
hand-in-hand to offer
its strength.
that Aiken exceeds
Carolina.
something for almost
With its rich heritage, impeccable beauty,
every lifestyle. One of Aiken’s greatest
By working together,
your expectations and
public and private entities have successfully
cosmopolitan flair, and
assets is its people –
implemented numerous
unparalleled quality of
individuals from diverse
programs that have
life, Aiken is the ideal
backgrounds who are
improved infrastructure,
place to come and spend a
dedicated to the economic
attracted business, saved
day, a week, or a lifetime.
and overall well-being
money, supported health
Aiken is the perfect
of the community. This
care and education,
place for all ages and
strong commitment from
and ultimately, created
for all seasons. It offers
business people, public
a thriving, vibrant
40
community.
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.
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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 offers more than you ever imagined. Where else can you find
• A beautiful, thriving downtown with unique
young singles and retirees. One visit to this
it is the perfect place to operate a business, raise
retail shops complemented
charming city, and you
a family, meet young
unique combinations that
by national chains and
will discover why people
professionals, and enjoy
mesh so incredibly well?
franchises throughout the
who live here celebrate
retirement.
community
Aiken every day – because
• Technically advanced
located in a small, but
health care services
globally cosmopolitan,
delivered with a friendly
town
hometown feel
• Cozy cottages and
• Modern vehicles
single-family homes
sharing unpaved streets
nestled among grand,
with riders on horseback
historic estates • An active, modern
It is these unique combinations that make
lifestyle entrenched in
the Aiken area special
Southern charm and a
and appealing for all age
history that has been
groups. The old and the
meticulously preserved
new blend perfectly to
• A contemporary,
provide a lifestyle that
progressive college and
suits almost any taste -
university with a small
from growing families to
town appeal
Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 41
© Bob Dur and Jr.
• An exceptional business environment
11/19/13 8:47 AM
LOCATION
encourage people to get off
Students in kindergarten
times: 2002, 2003, 2006,
the interstates and onto
through 12th grade
2007, 2009, 2010, 2011,
and accessible to major
the back roads of South
regularly receive
2012 and 2013.
interstates and airports.
Carolina, where they can
recognition for academic
For retirees looking to
The beach and the
learn about the state’s
achievement. The county
continue their education,
mountains are within
traditions and culture
has a variety of schools
USC Aiken offers the
driving distance, and in
and experience various
- public, charter, and
Academy for Lifelong
three hours, one can be
festivals and foods.
private - that place a high
Learning. Associated
priority on all aspects
with the University’s
Aiken is ideally located
in Charlotte, Atlanta,
The climate is another
Charleston, or Savannah.
plus; Aiken’s residents
of learning and that
Continuing Education
Aiken’s residents have
can enjoy the change of
continually report strong
program, the Lifelong
the best of both worlds -
seasons without prolonged
test scores and graduate
Learning program offers
they can enjoy big city life
severe weather.
successes.
classes and events to
EDUCATION
year, U.S. News & World
without having to live in a large metropolitan area.
For the 15th consecutive
those over 55 years of age. Aiken Technical
Education is extremely
Report’s guide, “America’s
College offers a variety of
history and culture, Aiken
important to the citizens
Best Colleges,” has ranked
programs for students,
sits in the middle of the
of Aiken and is a top
the University of South
such as business,
South Carolina National
priority in work force and
Carolina Aiken (USC
computer technology,
Heritage Corridor - one
economic development
Aiken) one of the top three
engineering technology
of several corridors in
initiatives throughout the
public regional colleges
and nursing. It also
the United States. The
area.
in the South. USC Aiken
contributes significantly
has been ranked first nine
to the community’s
For those who enjoy
corridor was designed to
42
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11/19/13 8:47 AM
work force. The college
arts thrive year round
plays a major role in
and touch many cultures
training employees for
and lifestyles, while
new industry and adapts
showcasing local, national
quickly to meet the needs
and international talent.
of existing and expanding industry.
New London Apartments Aiken’s Newest Apartment Community
The performing arts provide exciting entertainment and often
HEALTH CARE With more than 120
give local citizens an opportunity to perform.
doctors and 245 beds,
The URS Center for the
Aiken Regional Medical
Performing Arts, a state-
Centers offers outstanding
of-the-art theatre located
services to its patients in
in historic downtown
a variety of specialties,
Aiken, is home to the
including the Cancer
Aiken Community
Care Institute, the
Playhouse, which offers a
Cardiovascular Institute,
variety of shows to meet
and the Vein Center.
everyone’s tastes, from
Several hospitals located
drama to comedy and
in Augusta, Georgia, and
musicals. In addition to
throughout the region
the playhouse, the Aiken
also offer a wide range
Performing Arts Group
of medical services and
brings in nationally and
specialties.
internationally renowned
In addition to hospital and physician care, a comprehensive range
America’s premier
County, including
conservatory and the
home health, physical
Aiken community,
therapy, occupational
features a week of
therapy, sports medicine,
events each March that
behavioral health, and
encompasses public
exercise programs to
performances, chamber
name a few.
concerts, master classes,
389 Spencer Drive • Aiken, SC 29803
803-648-7005 • www.atcdevelopment.com
and outreach programs in area schools. Aiken is the first and only community
is passionate about art
in the world with which
– all kinds of art – and
Juilliard has partnered
residents and visitors
to create a festival of
alike support the arts with
this magnitude and
an enthusiasm that could
importance.
Visual and performing
Come by and see why these apartments are the best kept secret in Aiken!
Juilliard in Aiken, a partnership with
rival most any large city.
With a prime location behind the Whiskey Road Target, you can walk to do your shopping and even to some of the local resturants. These one and two bedroom units are tastefully designed and reasonably priced. Ask about our preferred employer and student discounts.
actors to Aiken each year.
can be found in Aiken
The Aiken community
Stained wood cabinets • Oil rubbed bronze fixtures and hardware Frieze carpet • Upgraded 16” vinyl tiles in kitchen and baths Kitchen islands • Vaulted ceiling • Ceiling fans • Track lighting Patios and balconies • Smoke free apartments • Washer/dryer connections Exceptional closets • Furnished and unfurnished units available
singers, musicians and
of health care services
ART & CULTURE
New London offers modern finishes in each unit including:
The Etherredge Center, located on the campus of
Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de
ion
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43 11/19/13 8:47 AM
the University of South
shows and receptions
the cultural legacy of the
Chocolate Festival, Aiken
Carolina Aiken (USC
flourish throughout the
African-American diaspora
Bluegrass Festival, and
Aiken), features a 687-
year and offer a unique
and chronicle the many
the Lobster Races. The
seat theater known for
mix of art media.
contributions of African-
Greater Aiken Chamber
Americans to Aiken and
of Commerce presents
neighboring regions.
the Aiken’s Makin’ Arts
its acoustical quality.
Participation in the arts
The Center holds many
is highly encouraged
cultural events open to
in the area through art
the community, including
education and enrichment
is a replica of Aiken’s
September on the Friday
the annual cultural
classes. Both visual and
historic railroad depot. It
and Saturday after Labor
series featuring traveling
performing arts classes
houses the City of Aiken’s
Day. The popular event
theater companies and
are available and give all
Visitor’s Center, as well
attracts more than 25,000
performers.
citizens the opportunity
as displays depicting the
people annually to Aiken’s
to learn a new skill or
relationship between the
historic downtown.
enhance an existing one.
founding of Aiken and the
The University’s 100,000-square-foot Convocation Center, one
History and culture play
The Aiken Train Museum
history of the railroad –
& Crafts Show every
RECREATION Every season in Aiken
of the region’s premier
an important role in the
from the popular legend
entertainment facilities,
community, and various
of a bride whose “hand
offers exciting outdoor
features everything from
historical sites and
was given in marriage” in
activities for visitors and
internationally known
museums offer memorable
exchange for a railroad
residents of all ages.
music stars to comedians,
educational experiences.
stop, to the establishment
musicals, and even professional bull riding. The University also hosts
Fun and diverse
of the “Winter Colony,”
activities abound year
Colony estate and now
when wealthy northerners
round in Aiken and
home to the Aiken County
traveled by way of
surrounding towns. One
Banksia, a former Winter
Historical Museum, once
personal railway cars to
of the biggest draws for
year during its Oswald
served as the original
spend their winters in
many is the numerous
Writer’s Series. Sponsored
campus of the University
Aiken.
equestrian activities and
renowned writers each
by the Department of
of South Carolina Aiken
English, the event features
Science enthusiasts
events. The area boasts
and as the community’s
will enjoy learning about
of international polo
free public readings by
public library. The
Aiken’s science and
matches, foxhunting,
novelists, short story
museum offers an
engineering history. The
horse shows, and carriage
exciting historical view
SRS Heritage Foundation,
and pleasure riding.
writers, and poets.
of Aiken and features
Inc. preserves the history
Busy horse farms and
entertainment is also
ongoing displays and
of the Savannah River
stables dot the area, and
popular in the area. The
Outdoor musical
shows that bring history
Site (SRS) and interprets
equestrian activities are
Hopelands Gardens
to life. The grounds have
to the public the Site’s
so popular that the City of
Summer Concert Series
been developed into an
role in winning the Cold
Aiken has unpaved streets
often attracts a large,
arboretum and nature
War. The Foundation
made of hard clay to
enthusiastic crowd and
trail.
focuses on SRS’s
protect the horses’ hooves.
features various musical
The Immanuel Institute
technical and scientific
Long known as a premier
Building, one of Aiken
achievements, sociological
horse training center
bands, ballet, bluegrass,
County’s most historic
impacts, and ecological
that has produced such
and clogging.
landmarks, is the site
accomplishments.
winners as Sea Hero,
entertainment, including
The Aiken Center for
of the Center for African
the Arts and numerous
When it comes to
Kelso, Summer Squall,
American History, Art &
outdoor fun and
Good Time, and most
galleries feature works
Culture (CAAHAC). The
entertainment, Aiken
recently, Palace Malice
of local, as well as
goal of the center, which is
boasts a variety of
who won the 2013
international and
currently being developed,
festivals, such as the
Belmont Stakes, the third
national, artists. Artist
is to preserve and present
annual St. Mary’s
leg of the Triple Crown.
44
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Aiken is home to the
numerous competitive
Aiken Training Track, the
sports opportunities for
Ford Conger Field, and
people of all ages. Citizens
numerous polo fields.
Park 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
stated, the area is a
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 flourish throughout the year and cater to
activities for many. Langley Pond, the only Olympic size rowing
as the novice. Thriving
course in South Carolina,
golf communities testify
plays host to rowing
to the sport’s popularity,
regattas and draws
and the area bustles
swimming, fishing, and
with activity every year
boating enthusiasts from
during the Masters Golf
the region.
Augusta, Georgia. For many residents and
Hours: Mon. – By Appt. Tues. – 10 am to 3 pm Wed. – 10 am to 8 pm Thur. – 10 am to 3 pm Fri. – 10 am to 3 pm Sat. – 10 am 1 pm Sun. – Closed
riding, and bird watching
experienced golfers as well
Tournament in nearby
217 Park Avenue Aiken, SC 29801 www.Hairknowlogy.com 803.642.9277 • 803.642.9278
Our magazine reaches Aiken’s influential residents with arts, homes, personalities and history. To advertise: 706.823.3702 To subscribe: 706.823.3722 or 1.800.622.6358
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.
Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de
ion
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Photo courtesy of Aiken Regional Medical Centers
AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA
Health Care
H
ealth care is a top
The region is rich in
a private, nonprofit
priority in Aiken
health care facilities and
organization based in
and Aiken County.
is home to nine hospitals
Utah, ranks ARMC among
Health care providers and
and thousands of health
the nation’s top hospitals
citizens alike recognize
care professionals pro-
for treating the above-
the value of a healthy
viding some of the best
mentioned diseases.
community. With highly
health care services in the
trained professionals
nation.
who are dedicated to the
Local residents have
With more than 120 on-staff physicians covering 38 specialties,
wellness of the entire
access to Aiken Regional
the 245-bed hospital is
person - from acute care
Medical Centers (ARMC),
well equipped to care for
to behavioral health,
which the Carolinas
family health and wellness
preventive medicine and
Center for Medical
needs. Southside Imaging
wellness programs - the
Excellence has ranked
Center opened its doors in
Aiken area offers superior
as South Carolina’s top
2011 and serves residents
health care services
hospital for treating heart
on Aiken’s south side
covering a broad spectrum
attacks, heart failure and
with convenient access
of specialties.
pneumonia. Healthinsight,
and advanced diagnostic
46
ABOVE: Aiken has a variety of specialists to care for the community’s health care needs, including women’s health.
services. ARMC’s newly renovated cath lab, equipped with the latest technology, allows the Cardiovascular Institute to consistently care for patients at a rate below the national and state average “Door to Balloon” times.
Ph Th
We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e
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11/19/13 8:47 AM
Comprehensive Care for Every Part of Your Life !T !IKEN 2EGIONAL -EDICAL #ENTERS 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 7HEN YOU NEED URGENT CARE OUR HOUR %MERGENCY $EPARTMENT IS READY WITH PERCENT BOARD CERTIlED EMERGENCY MEDICINE PHYSICIANS !ND 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
Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LifeCare Center
641-5800
Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LifeCare Diagnostic Services
641-5065
Wound Healing Institute of Carolina
643-2090
The Vein Center
641-5544
Find a Doctor. 4O lND A PHYSICIAN CALL OUR FREE $IRECT $OCTORS3-0LUS PHYSICIAN REFERRAL SERVICE AT
Refer to the gatefold for more information and a complete physician listing.
Get to know us online. 6ISIT US AT WWW AIKENREGIONAL COM TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS NEWSLETTER 1UALITY OF ,IFE REQUEST FREE BROCHURES AND A $6$ SEE A SCHEDULE OF COMMUNITY HEALTH EVENTS AND MORE
5NIVERSITY 0ARKWAY s !IKEN 3# 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.
Welcome Aiken (1-64).indd 47
11/19/13 8:47 AM
ARMCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s services range
offers outpatient surgery.
from a 24-hour emergency
Also serving the area in
department to cardiopul-
nearby Augusta, Georgia,
monary and respiratory
is the Georgia Regents
services, Computerized
Health System, which
Tomography Scanning,
includes the Georgia
same-day outpatient sur-
Regents Medical Center,
gery, dialysis treatments,
a teaching- and research-
pain management, and
based hospital with 478
more. The Sleep Evalu-
beds, and the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
ation Center, Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
Hospital of Georgia, a
LifeCare Center, Diabetes
154-bed pediatric hos-
and Nutrition Teaching
pital. The hospitals are
Center, Aurora Behavioral
the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Level 1 adult
Health Services, Cardio-
and pediatric trauma
vascular Institute of Caro-
centers with service lines
lina and the Cancer Care
that include digestive
Institute of Carolina, are
health, neuro, cancer and
among ARMCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top-notch
heart. The health system
facilities.
also includes a variety
In addition, The Surgery
of dedicated centers and
Center of Aiken, located
units for specific medical
near the hospital campus,
Schedule your next massage with us.
Matt Nieman, LUTCF
Member, Million Dollar Round Table Matt Nieman Insurance Agency, Inc. Nationwide Insurance and Financial Services 705 Silver Bluff Rd., Aiken, SC 29803
4 treatment rooms available. 5 massage therapists.
Tel 803-643-8304 Tel 866-643-6262 Fax 803-642-9927 niemanm@nationwide.com
Centre South â&#x20AC;˘ 803.649.9286 SC License #â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4526, 7918, 2677, 4806, 6196 & 65004
William E. Durrett, Jr., M.D. Pain Management, Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine
www.aikenpain.com / email: thepaincenter@aikenneuro.com
1 ' 6OJWFSTJUZ 1BSLXBZ 4VJUF "JLFO 4$
4PDJFUZ )JMM %SJWF 4VJUF "JLFO 4$
Securities offered through Nationwide Securities, LLC., member FINRA, SIPC. DBA Nationwide Advisory Services, LLC in AR, FL, IL, NY, TX and WY. Representative of Nationwide Life Insurance Company, affiliated companies and other companies
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48
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11/19/13 8:47 AM
treatment, such as sports medicine. Augusta, Georgia-based
In addition to hospital and physician care, a comprehensive range of health
University Health Care
care services can be found
System features a 581-
in Aiken County, includ-
bed, not-for-profit com-
ing home health, physi-
munity hospital serving 25
cal therapy, occupational
counties in Georgia and
therapy, sports medicine,
South Carolina. It has
behavioral health and ex-
nearly 600 independent,
ercise programs to name a
private physicians on ac-
few. Special interest pro-
tive, consulting, courtesy,
grams and support groups
and associate staff.
are also available, as well
The American Nurses
as educational programs.
Credentialing Center has
Comprehensive care fa-
recognized University Hos-
cilities, adult day services
pital with its prestigious
and assisted-living com-
Magnet designation for
munities complement the
nursing excellence. The
many medical services
national award is consid-
available and support the
ered one of the highest
diverse health care needs
honors in nursing.
of area citizens.
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
Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de
ion
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photo courtesy of Aiken Technical College
Lots of career opportunities!
AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA
T
he economic
and environmental res-
strength of Aiken
toration, many advanced
and Aiken County
businesses and industries
lies in the ability to change
call the Aiken area home.
with the times and to em-
The range and diversity of
brace a global marketplace
these companies provide
. . . and it shows. Aiken
a stable working envi-
has been named the “Best
ronment and strengthen
Place in the South to Lo-
Aiken County’s economic
cate Your Company” (small
base.
market). Many factors
Savannah River Nuclear
played into this distin-
Solutions, LLC, the largest
guished honor, including
employer in Aiken County
the area’s strong, diverse
and one of the largest in
economy.
South Carolina, plays a
From everyday products, such as pharmaceuti-
major role in the area’s economy at the Savannah
cal and consumer health
River Site, which includes
products, to tires, automo-
the Savannah River Na-
tive parts, diesel engines,
tional Laboratory.
vending machines and ma-
Several other large
terials for nuclear defense
employers in the area,
50
cour tesy Econ omi c Dev elop men t Part ners hip
Economy & Employment
We lc ome Aik e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e
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11/19/13 8:47 AM
including Savannah River
(Switzerland), Metso Paper
work force and incentives
Remediation, LLC, at the
USA (Finland), Newman
to potential business and
Columbia, South Carolina,
Savannah River Site,
Technology SC (Japan),
industry. Aiken Technical
the Aiken area is blessed
Kimberly-Clark Corpora-
BAE Systems (United
College and the Univer-
with excellent transporta-
tion, Shaw AREVA MOX
Kingdom), BOC Gases
sity of South Carolina
tion access.
Services, and Bridgestone
(United Kingdom), and
Aiken are instrumental in
Americas Tire Operations
Shinsho American Corpo-
preparing students for the
Municipal Airport ac-
have invested heavily in
ration (Japan).
business and technical
commodates corporate
needs of local employers.
jet service, and the area
Aiken County and contrib-
Aiken County recognizes
Metropolitan Airport in
In addition, the Aiken
ute significantly to eco-
the value of its economic
In addition, their Continu-
offers two railway compa-
nomic prosperity.
base and works closely
ing Education programs
nies, bus lines, and motor
Kimberly-Clark Corpora-
with existing industries to
support new technological
freight lines that provide
tion is a Fortune 500 com-
help ensure their suc-
needs brought on by an
transportation services.
pany as is ASCO (Emerson
cess and longevity. The
ever changing market.
Add to this the fact that
Electric).
testament of these efforts
The area also enjoys a
Aiken’s convenient loca-
the major ports of Charles-
shows – several existing
tion and accessibility also
ton, South Carolina and
strong global presence
industries have signifi-
make it attractive for many
Savannah, Georgia are
with several interna-
cantly expanded their op-
different kinds of busi-
only 2 ½ hours away, and
tional companies, such as
erations in recent years.
nesses. With its proximity
one can see that business
Bridgestone Americas Tire
With its friendly, progres-
to I-20 and two commer-
transportation needs are
Operations (Japan), Tog-
sive business environ-
cial airports, Augusta Re-
easily met in the Aiken
num America (Germany),
ment, the Aiken area offers
gional Airport in Augusta,
area.
Autoneum North America
a diverse, well trained
Georgia, and Columbia
Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de
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Aiken
{by the numbers}
EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR
3
1. Professional and Business Services – 27% 2. Manufacturing – 15% 3. Wholesale and Retail – 13% 4. Government – 13% 5. Education and Health Services – 8% 6. Leisure and Hospitality – 8% 7. Construction – 8% 8. Financial Activities – 4% 9. Transportation and Warehousing – 2% 10. Other – 2%
4
2
5 6 1 7 10
9
8
k-12 School Numbers
Aiken County major employers
20......................................... Elementary 10................................................Middle
Company Description
Employees
7......................................... High School 1...................Career & Technology Center
52
Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC
Nuclear Processing
4,849
Aiken County Public Schools
Education
3,312
Shaw I AREVA MOX Services Savannah River Site
Nuclear Design
2,078
Savannah River Remediation, LLC Savannah River Site
Design and Construction
1,700
Aiken Regional Medical Centers
Health Care
1,200
3....................................Charter Schools
% Population By Age Group 0-18 years old.............................. 22.7% 19-24 years old.............................. 8.8%
Kimberly-Clark Corporation
Consumer Paper Products
1,197
Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations
Tires
1,157
45-64 years old............................ 20.1%
Aiken County
Government
840
65 and over.................................. 16.5%
AGY
Glass Fiber & Circuit Boards
713
Crane Merchandising Services
Vending Machines
700
WSI-SRS Team Savannah River Site
Security Systems
667
Wal-Mart Associates Inc.
Retail
645
Shaw Industries
Textiles
612
University of South Carolina Aiken
Education
545
UPS Supply Chain Solutions
Transportation & Logistics
475
City of Aiken
Government
431
ASCO Valve Manufacturing. Inc
Industrial Solenoid Valves
399
Hubbell Power Systems
High Voltage Insulators
370
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25-44 years old............................ 26.9%
Communities (Incorporated) in Aiken County
Aiken Burnettown Jackson Monetta New Ellenton North Augusta Perry Salley Wagener Windsor
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Aiken
Total Area of County, 1,080.66 square miles Land – 1,072.66 square miles • Water – 8 square miles
County Population Estimate, (2011) – 162,812 (U.S. Census Bureau)
Growth Rate + 1.7% (2011-2012) (South Carolina Statistical Abstract)
Estimated Total Civilian Labor Force – 77,076 (2012) (Lower Savannah Council of Governments)
Unemployment Rate (Aug.) 2013 – 7.6% (SC Works Aiken Center)
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
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photo courtesy of USC Aiken
% AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA
Education Aiken County Public
private citizens
Schools continue to be
and business
recognized for academic
communities have a long
excellence and student
pho to cou rtes y of Aike n Tech nica l Coll ege
A
iken Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
standing commitment to
achievement throughout
education and embrace
the pre-K to 12th grade
the many academic
levels. During the 2012-
offerings â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from pre-
13 year, 20 schools
kindergarten to college
received South Carolina
and beyond. With public,
Palmetto Gold and Silver
private and religion-
awards for attaining high
In addition, several
arts, middle school
based schools available,
levels of performance
schools have received
education, physical
educational opportunities
on state standardized
statewide and
education, science
are plentiful for all
measurements for general
national recognition
education, athletics,
students, where academic,
performance; eight schools
for implementing
and community service
as well as physical and
were recognized for closing
model programs in the
initiatives.
character, development
the achievement gap.
is stressed.
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V w e W s w
7KLQN %LJ %DQN 6PDOO VistaBank provides the Aiken community with valued banking services and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re small enough to deliver those services personally. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re proud to be a community bank supporting our neighbors every day. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we view banking from your point of view. t 'FF 'SFF "5.T 8PSMEXJEF t (SFBU MPBOT UP CSJOH ZPVS ESFBN UP B reality. t 'SFF DIFDLJOH XIJDI öUT ZPV KVTU SJHIU t 7JTUB#BOL BQQ UP LFFQ ZPV DPOOFDUFE UP your account.
803.644.9550
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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.
photo courtesy of Aiken Technical College
Address: 1000 Brookhaven Drive Phone: (803) 641-2428 Web: www.acps.schoolfusion.us K-12 Student Population: 24,759 (2012-2013) Number of Schools: 42 - 7 High Schools - 10 Middle Schools - 20 Elementary Schools - 1 Career and Technology Center - 3 Charter Schools
• Hammond Hill
The Aiken County
Elementary was named
Career and Technology
a National Blue Ribbon
Center offers a multitude
school for being a model
of award-winning career
of excellence in academics
focused programs.
and student achievement.
Recently, four new health science and sports
• The Class of 2013,
medicine opportunities
comprised of 1,378
were added, increasing
high school graduates,
student options and
amassed a record-
supporting local
breaking $46 million in
employment needs.
scholarships.
Aiken County Public Schools are successful
• The U.S. News and
due in part to the many
Average Teacher Salary: $48,730 Number of Teachers: 1,868 Number of 4-year-olds: 760 Total Number of Employees: 3,312 Ethnic Composition: • 58.0% Caucasian • 33.8% African-American • 5.2% Hispanic/ESL • 3.0% Asian/Other
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
World Report recognized
partnerships with local
South Aiken High School
colleges and corporations
Immunization
as the #7 high school in
that enhance academic
South Carolina and the
courses and expand the
For complete immunization requirements, call 1-800-27-SHOTS or visit www.scdhec.net
#1,079 out of 22,000 high
academic choices for
schools nationally.
students at all grade levels. Schools are
• Aiken Elementary
technologically rich and
Knowledge Masters are
continue to meet the
ranked first in the state
ever increasing demand
for its 5th grade academic
for graduates to be
excellence.
highly skilled in the
Age Requirements 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
use and application of technology. All schools, with the exception of the charter schools, are fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
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photo courtesy Cynthia Delaney
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.
Pho to cour tesy of Dog woo d Stab le, Inc.
Retirement Housing: With a median home price at $140,950
Education: The University of
(August 2013) and a low
South Carolina Aiken
perfect balance of activi-
tion and proximity to
cost of living, Aiken is
(USC Aiken) and Aiken
ties, and a relaxed lifestyle.
everything from historic
a very affordable place
Technical College (ATC)
It also offers a number of
Charleston to bustling
to retire. A variety of
are located in Aiken
housing options at a range
Charlotte make it a perfect
housing options are
County. Both offer
of pleasing price points.
destination for seniors. In
available – historic homes
continuing educational
It is the combination
work opportunities, the
Aiken’s accessible loca-
short, settling in Aiken af-
and charming cottages,
opportunities for
of these items that
fords retirees the oppor-
large equestrian estates,
seniors/retirees.
have earned Aiken the
tunity to be as active, or
new condominiums and
USC Aiken offers the
reputation as the “No.
equally as relaxed, as they
townhouses, golfing
Academy for Lifelong
1 place to retire,” by
want to be.
communities with nature
Learning where seniors
trails, and retirement
can learn in classroom
Century 21, the “One
Here is a look at some of
of 21 Best Towns for
the key items retirees look
communities with endless
settings and through
Boomers” by Best Boomer
for:
amenities.
group tours and
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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.
Activities:
Health Care:
No matter what one likes
Some of the best health
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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Building Communities Makes Business Sense Business - and community - building programs at the chamber of commerce bring more wealth and opportunity to everyone in the region Be a part of the
Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce Leading Businesses. Leading CommunitiesTM Call: 803.641.1111 or log on to: www.aikenchamber.net
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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 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 1-877-349-7187. You can also visit their web site 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 garbage disposal to unincorporated areas of Aiken County
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GOVERNMENT
Cable Television
State Government
Atlantic Broadband........................................................................................... (803) 641-2144 www.atlanticbb.com
• The capital of South Carolina is Columbia, located approximately 60 miles northeast of Aiken. • South Carolina is governed under a constitution ratified in 1895. State legislators and members of the state’s executive branch can be contacted by calling the following numbers: Governor................................................................................................................ (803) 734-2100 Lt. Governor........................................................................................................... (803) 734-2080 State Senate........................................................................................................... (803) 734-2080 House of Representatives...................................................................................... (803) 734-2402
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
LIBRARIES 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
MEDIA Newspapers The Aiken Standard......................................................................................... (803) 648-2311 Local/Aiken County published daily www.aikenstandard.com The Augusta Chronicle..................................................................................... (803) 648-1395 Augusta-Aiken MSA published daily www.chronicle.augusta.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 - Active Rock WDRR 93.9 FM - Classic Hits WGAC 580 AM - News/Talk WGAC 95.1 FM - News/ Talk WGUS 102.7 FM - Southern Gospel 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 WEKL G105.7 FM - Today’s Country WZNY 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 iTalkUS.com & WEZO 1230 AM....................................................................... (706) 364-9361
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
TAXES State Income Tax 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.
Credits 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.
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Deductions to Income • 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.
Additions to Income 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.
Are there any available tax breaks? 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. Homestead exemption - As allowed under SC Code Section 12-37-250
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 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. 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 food, personal effects and other items. • There is a 1% 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 City of Aiken Finance Department.................................................................... (803) 642-7603 135 Laurens Street, SW, Aiken, SC 29801
TELEPHONE SERVICE • AT&T and Atlantic Broadband provide telephone 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.
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.
TRANSPORTATION
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.
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
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Aiken Taxi Transport .................................................................................. (803) 642-9910 SC Express Transportation (private transit service).................................... (803) 648-9977 Best Friend Express (public transit service)................................................ (803) 649-7981 www.bestfriendexpress.com Fares: Adults - $2.00 Seniors/Disabled - $1.00
Students w/ID - $1.50 Medicare Card Holders - $1.00
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Aiken Municipal Airport............................................................................. (803) 648-7803 â&#x20AC;˘ Private airport located in Aiken. www.aikenaviation.com Highways â&#x20AC;˘ The Metro area has access to interstate highways: I-20 and I-520. â&#x20AC;˘ The area is serviced by three major U.S. highways and nearly 20 state highways. Rail System â&#x20AC;˘ Main line railroads serving the area include the CSX System and Norfolk Southern â&#x20AC;˘ 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: â&#x20AC;˘ Be a United States citizen â&#x20AC;˘ Be at least 18-years old on or before the next election â&#x20AC;˘ Be a resident of South Carolina, this county and precinct â&#x20AC;˘ Not be under a court order declaring you mentally incompetent â&#x20AC;˘ Not be confined in any public prison resulting from a conviction of a crime â&#x20AC;˘ 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: â&#x20AC;˘ SC Driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s License â&#x20AC;˘ ID card issued by SC Department of Motor Vehicles â&#x20AC;˘ SC Voter Registration Card with Photo â&#x20AC;˘ Federal Military ID â&#x20AC;˘ U.S. Passport Further information including district maps and polling locations may be found at www.scvotes.org
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 driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.
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Protecting Your Health & Property â&#x20AC;˘ Pest, Termite and Mosquito Control â&#x20AC;˘ Home, Business and Industry â&#x20AC;˘ Trusted Service Since 1967
WATER Aiken (City of).................................................................................................. (803) 642-7603 Bath Water & Sewer District............................................................................. (803) 593-3221 Beech Island Rural Community Water District.................................................. (803) 827-1004 Breezy Hill Water & Sewer Company................................................................ (803) 663-6455 Clearwater Water & Sewer District................................................................... (803) 593-3509 College Acres Public Works District................................................................. (803) 649-5619 Edgefield County Water & Sewer Authority...................................................... (803) 279-1503 Jackson Water Department............................................................................... (803) 471-2229 Langley Water & Sewer Department................................................................. (803) 593-3404 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
Call Now! 803-649-9803 www.aikenpest.com
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Wagener Water Department.............................................................................. (803) 564-3412
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