GVW Report July 2016

Saturday, July 2, 2016

Graniteville • Vaucluse • Warrenville

Vol. 2, No. 7

Independence of Life

by Anne Fulcher

Independence is defined by MeriamWebster as: freedom from outside control or support: the state of being independent: the time when a country or region gains political freedom from outside control. At this time of year, we think of our country celebrating freedom from rule of the British Empire. On the Fourth of July our country celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence which was signed on July 4th, 1776.

After working at Area Churches Together Serving (ACTS) for the past few months, I have realized that there are many more things that can impact the independence of a person/people. It’s those little things that many of us may tend to forget but I feel I must address.

Financial independence is always at the forefront in our adult lives. We strive to grow up, get married, have a family, own a car, own a dwelling and establish security.

For many people, life is just not that simple.

Life can change at the drop of a hat pin and a life can take a downward spiral AND IT CAN HAPPEN TO ANY ONE OF US! I know, I’ve been there. You have the perfect life with the perfect house with the perfect white picket fence, two perfect children, the perfect spouse, the perfect credit score and the perfect job. Then things happen!

Job loss, terminal illness, death, divorce, accident, etc. The list can go on and on and I am sure each and every one of you know of someone who has dealt with tragedy and

Photo Credit Mr. Cleve Koon

devastation. You get behind in your bills, you lose your perfect house, your perfect car is repossessed, the perfect children have now become disruptive in school and you and your mate are teetering on going your separate ways. You MUST have help/assistance. But where do you go? Family and friends will see you as a failure if you ask them for help. The bank will not help you because you no longer have a job. Your entire family is exhibiting signs and symptoms of depression and you know you must get help… ¬¬Help to regain your independence from the destruction that has caused you to lose your footing.

There are many organizations in Aiken County that are here to help people gain

independence when working through difficult times. You have ACTS, Christ Central, Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Center, Community Action Agency, St. Vincent De Paul, Second Baptist Church of Aiken, the Salvation Army, and many many more. But it is very important to know that 211 is the Help Line of Aiken County and their volunteers can direct you to which agency may help you. There are boundaries that many agencies have so that there is minimal duplication of services. Many of these agencies use the school district map to divide the county in to help districts. All of these agencies are founded on the premise to help those in need to gain their independence again. Do NOT be afraid to ask for

help if you are in dire straits.

There is also the need for emotional independence. The Aiken Barnwell Mental Health Center can offer counseling for behavioral health issues. It is nothing to be embarrassed about to ask for help or to go for counseling. Many times when we go through troubling events, it is easier to talk to an unbiased individual: someone we do not know. There are times when we just want to know that someone will take the time to listen to our problems and not judge us. It’s not easy to ask for help of any type much less to ask for emotional help when many people deem behavioral health counseling as a sign of weakness. It is not! An individual’s emotional health is just as important as one’s physical and for that matter behavioral health problems can cause physical ailments to occur.

As we celebrate the Independence of our country, let us not forget those who may not be as privileged as you and I are.

You may be the missing link to help someone else gain their independence by your volunteering at one of the many agencies in Aiken County. I have been truly Blessed to have been given the opportunity to work at ACTS. I know that I have been able to help many many people who have come upon some difficult times. You can help make a difference too. On this Independence Day, take the plunge, not in the pool or the lake, but take the plunge to be a volunteer at one of these amazing organizations. You will find it will give you a freedom of heart you have never felt before!

2 • Saturday, July 2, 2016

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

June Community Calendar Area Churches Together Serving (ACTS) • July 4-10: Closed for Independence Day Holiday • July 14, 6 p.m.: Coffee with JoJo (Hope Center, Graniteville) • July 16, 8 - 9:30 a.m.: Senior Food Program for ACTS clients, at ACTS • July 18-22, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.: Fantastic Sale at ACTS Resale Store “Christmas in July” • July 28, 6 p.m.: Coffee with JoJo (Hope Center, Graniteville) Christ Central Graniteville (Hope Center) • Nurse Aide Training. Christ Central Hope Center is offering a state approved Nurse Aide Training course at the Hope Center Trinity Academy in Graniteville, SC. The fiveweek course includes four weeks of classroom instruction, Tuesdays through Thursdays, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by one week of clinical practice, Monday through Friday, from 6:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. There will also be mentoring in preparation for the certification exam. Applications for prospective students are currently being accepted. There are partial scholarships available for those who qualify. For further information call Hope Center at 803-393-4575.

• WorkKeys. Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to noon.

WorkKeys is a National Career Readiness Certificate that certifies the essential work skills needed for jobs across industries and occupations. Prepares students for Applied Mathematics, Locating Information, and Reading for Information ACT WorkKeys tests. Free.

• GED tutoring every Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to noon.

• Bible study for Hispanic men with Pastor Granillo Wednesdays 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Estudio bíblico para hombres, lunes. 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.

• Small Engine Repair: 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays, June 14 and 21 • “Turning the Pages” Bible Study with Gollie Walker first and third Tuesdays 7-8 p.m., June 7 and 21.

• Daytime Bible study with Pastor Granillo; Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. to noon.

• Learn English for Living Foundation classes are each Thursday night at 7 p.m. Citizenship Preparation classes are also offered. Call Janey Rule at 706-951-4886 • Coffee with JoJo second and fourth Thursdays 6-9 p.m., May 12 and 26 call Jan Gilbert at 803-646-0451

SUMMER DAY CAMP Gregg park will offer four weeks of summer day camp for children ages 5-12. Pre-registration required. MondayThursday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. $40/Passholders and $50/Non-passholders. July 18-21, July 25-28th. For more information, please call the park at 803-663-7552.

LITE-SIDE A senior’s class for those who desire a vigorous and fun-filled workout. Certified instructor Wendy Moore will demonstrate the latest techniques for health conscious adults. Classes are held Mondays and Wednesday from 9 to 10 a.m. For more information, call the park at 803-663-7552. Free of charge.

LINE DANCE Rock&Roll, Country & Beach Music Line dancing classes with instructor Cassie Barnhill are taught on Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. the cost is $5 per class. For more information, call the park at 803-663-7552.

LUNCH BUNCH WALKERS Let Gregg Park help you with your exercise and fitness program. A healthier and well-conditioned you is just a few steps away. Sixteen walk times will earn you a free T-shirt and a healthier mind and body. Walking inside the gym or outside on our beautiful and serene ½ mile walking track.

For more information, please call the park at 803-663-7552.

KARATE Karate classes are taught by Brian Randall are are held on Tuesday nights from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Classes are for ages 5 and older with instruction in Tae Kwon Do and Kenpo. Cost is $15 per month.

FREE BLOOD PRESSURE TESTING Blood Pressure Testing is offered at Gregg Park Civic Center.

This service is free if charge, and is performed by certified nurse Jeanne Townes. This service is provided the first and third Wednesday of each month from 4 to 6 p.m.

GYMNASTICS Gymnastic classes are now being held at Gregg Park Civic Center. Registration fee is $10 and cost of instruction is $30 per month. Instructor Rhonda Whitley will teach Gymnastics for children ages 4 and older on Mondays from 6 to 7 p.m. For more information, call the park at 663-7552 UNLIMITED Exercise Classes per Month $10/Month for Pass holders, $15/Month for Non-Pass holders • Cardio/Weight Class, Mondays and Wednesdays, 5 to 6 p.m.

A 30/30 Cardio and Weight Class consisting of a cardio workout and followed by light weights for toning and abdominal work. Instructor: Becky Geeting

Call 803-393-4575 to sign up for any of these classes.

• Zumba, Tuesdays, 5 to 6 p.m.

Come check out the Zumba Party on Wednesday afternoons with instructor Becky Geeting. This class is for any level of participation and provides a non-intimidating opportunity for new exercisers. Come join the fun and enjoy group fitness with less impact.

Gregg Park Civic Center www.greggparkonline.com

• Resistance Band Training. Mondays and Wednesdays, 6 to 6:30 p.m

• ServSafe ® Food Manager Course will be taught by Karen Tempel on June 27, Monday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Come by Hope Center for more information.

It’s only 30 minutes. Short on the time but long on the results. Bring your mat, towel and water. We provide the bands. Instructor Joan Beam will demonstrate exercise with concentration on tightening and toning the core muscles.

ANOTHER NEW BRIDGE GAME IN TOWN AikenAugusta Duplicate Bridge announced a Thursday morning ACBL sanctioned game beginning May 5th at 10 a.m., to be held at Gregg Park Civic Center, 1001 A Ave., in Graniteville. All levels of bridge players welcome. Come with a partner and meet new people while improving your bridge skills in a friendly, fun environment. This great facility

See Calendar, Page 9

For information on how you can sponsor the GVW Report, or to suggest story ideas, please contact the editor: Anne Fulcher at ernieace2@yahoo.com or call at 803-979-4476

GVW Report Editor Anne Fulcher

Layout/Design Lauren A. Haley

This Month’s Sponsors Aiken Regional Medical Center Savannah River Nuclear Solutions

Saturday, July 2, 2016 • 3

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

Each month a student/students from one of the schools in the GVW area will have their story published in the GVW Report. I hope you enjoy their work and please reach out to them and give them a cheer for their good work

What does freedom mean to you?

GRACE TURNER- AGE 7

NATHAN TURNER- AGE 10

Freedom is the capability to do what you want, but not to roam free and be violent. It’s to be free from silly rules like the government picking what your job is, telling you who to worship, or punishing you if you don’t listen to what they’re saying. A lot of countries don’t let you pick what you want to do and who you want to be. Freedom makes me feel special because I get to experience all the stuff that a lot of people in the world do not get. Freedom is what makes America special.

Freedom means that you can do what you want as long as it’s not dangerous and it doesn’t interfere with someone else’s freedom. It means that you can worship who you want you can vote for who you want, and you can say what you want without fear of punishment from the government. Freedom is not free because a lot of American soldiers died for us to have this freedom. I am very thankful for my freedom.

The writing is from a brother and sister. Their names are Nathan and Grace Turner.

Their parents are Karen and Chris Turner. This brother and sister team are students at Warrenville Elementary School and are students of Ms. Amber Adams.

Interested in sponsoring the Student Page?

Contact Anne Fulcher, 803.979.4476

4 • Saturday, July 2, 2016

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

ATC President receives South Carolina’s highest civilian award Aiken Technical College’s retiring President received South Carolina’s highest civilian award—the Order of the Palmetto— during a community reception held Monday at the College.

The honor was presented to Dr. Susan A. Winsor by members of the Aiken County Legislative Delegation on behalf of SC Gov. Nikki R. Haley. The Order of the Palmetto honors South Carolina citizens whose service and achievements have had an impact statewide or on a national level.

“This award is in recognition of your extraordinary work and dedication to the citizens of our state,” stated a letter from Gov. Haley read by state Sen. Tom Young, Jr. “Through your outstanding leadership as President of Aiken Technical College to your extensive involvement in business and civic affairs, you have demonstrated a remarkable commitment to excellence in all that you do. Your passion for education has not gone unnoticed and your contributions will have a lasting impact for years to come.”

In addition to the Order of the Palmetto, members of the Legislative Delegation also recognized Winsor with proclamations from both the state’s Senate and House of Representatives.

“During her 17 years at Aiken Technical College, the work that she has done really cannot be quantified by words alone…She has done so much for the citizens of this community and this county,” said Sen. Young. “We can’t thank you enough for the dedication that you’ve shown to students, to the faculty and to the staff. She has served in various roles throughout

Winsor with Order of Palmetto: Aiken Technical College President Dr. Susan Winsor was awarded the Order of the Palmetto. The award is South Carolina’s highest civilian honor. the (SC) Technical College System to ensure that a quality technical college education remains affordable, accessible and relevant to the citizens of South Carolina.”

Winsor, who was visibly moved by the honors, described serving in education as a “calling” that she has enjoyed sharing with many over the years.

“We are all here because we care so much about our students and we care so much about our community,” she said. “Those of you who are in the business and those who are my wonderful colleagues here at Aiken Technical College, you know that this is

Winsor with Proclamations: The Aiken County Legislative Delegation presented Aiken Technical College President Dr. Susan Winsor with proclamations from the SC Senate and SC House of Representatives. a calling. This is a mission that we take very seriously.

So I want to thank all of my colleagues here that have helped me realize the vision that we hold together for this College. I’m really blessed to be spending my life in a career where you make such a difference in the lives of other people.”

Winsor has served as ATC’s President since September 1999 and has spent more than 30 years within the SC Technical College System.

Saturday, July 2, 2016 • 5

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

PICO conducted the Graniteville, SC, Community Leaders Institute at Christ Central’s Hope Center

By Latecia M. Abraham, DHA The Medical University of South Carolina’s (MUSC) Public Information and Community Outreach (PICO) Program in collaboration with Min. Louisiana Sanders and Councilwoman Lessie B. Price conducted the Granitevile, SC, Community Leaders Institute (CLI) on June 24-25, 2016, at Christ Central’s Hope Center in the Multipurpose Room in Graniteville, SC. The presenters covered the role of government, youth issues and challenges, economic development, housing, transportation, community development and health disparities. Sponsors included the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Allen University, the U.S. Department of Energy (U.S. DOE), Southeastern Virtual Institute for Health Equity and Wellness (SE-VIEW-MUSC-DOD), Rural Health Services, Inc. – Clyburn Center for Primary Care, Aiken Technical College, University Health Care System, and Aiken Regional Medical Centers. This event was free to the public, and 75 professionals, community leaders, and students attended and disseminated information in the community on environmental protection, human health, Environmental Justice, and economic development.

On Friday, June 24, 2016, Mr. Marshal Chastain, Director of Christ Central’s Hope Center in Graniteville, welcomed the Medical University of South Carolina and attendees to the spacious location that was adorned with freshly-cut assorted hydrangeas. Ms. Carol Anne Fulcher, GVW Report Editor, served as moderator of the Role of Governments panel, and EPA’s Ms. Sheryl Good, SCDHEC’s Mr. Trey Reed, and Lower Savannah Council of Governments’ (LSCOG) Ms. Nora Sanders imparted information about the Environmental Justice Advisory Board, clean water, restaurant ratings, the Environmental Survey and Oversight Programs in addition to Workforce Development Programs in the Graniteville area. The program culminated with Aiken’s Mayor Rick Osbon, Congressman Joe Wilson’s Representative Ms. Martha Ruthven, SC Representative William Clyburn, Rev. Dr. James Abraham, and Rev. Troy Nipper bringing remarks on behalf of their organizations by welcoming the Community Leaders

Institute to Graniteville, SC. On Saturday, June 25, 2016, Councilwoman Lessie B. Price introduced Mr. Thomas Johnson, Jr., US DOE-Savannah River Operation Office’s Associate Deputy Manager, who served as the Keynote Speaker. Mr. Johnson gave a keynote address that described Savannah River Site as an organization that has achieved significant cleanup, protected its employees and the environment by preventing liquid waste from spilling into the environment, served as an industry leader in safety in the Savannah River National Laboratory operations, served as a provider of workforce training, and collaborated with colleges and universities, especially Historically Black Colleges and Universities, to provide funding and employment opportunities for graduates.

On Saturday’s Youth Issues and Challenges Panel, Dr. Charles Richburg, III, President of Richburg Career Services and Member

of Concerned Ministers Fellowship, served as the panel’s moderator, and he stressed the need for alternative programs for the youth.

Aiken County Public School District’s Dr. Shawn Foster, Savannah River Site’s Mr. Dean Campbell, Johnston’s Mayor Terrence Culbreath, and S.H.A.R.P. Sister’s Ms. Rozlyn Humphrey discussed the number of students arrested on school grounds, ways students can use social media to showcase their talents, abilities, and goals, and the importance of letting the “new generation” have a voice.

Dr. David E. Rivers, Associate Professor and PICO Director at the Medical University, moderated the Economic Development, Housing, Transportation, and Community Development Panel, and he stated what factors businesses take into account before deciding to bring business facilities to the area to boost the local economy. USDA-Rural Development’s Ms. Debbie Turberville, US

HUD’s Mr. Larry Knightner, LSCOG’s Mr. Andre’ Anderson, and Recleim’s Ms. Shannon Matlock discussed 502 Housing, 504 Loan Grants for senior citizens, Section 8 Housing, Section 202 Housing for the Elderly, home ownership programs, workforce training skills, and the FHA Loan. Next, Min. Louisiana Sanders and Councilwoman Lessie B. Price requested that Mrs. Melinda Downing and students in the Mentoring Program proceed to the podium. US DOE’s Mrs. Melinda Downing, a sponsor of the Graniteville CLI, spoke with the Aiken/Graniteville students in her Mentoring Program and captured the moment by taking a photo with the students.

Immediately following lunch, MUSC’s Dr. Sabra Slaughter, moderated the Health Disparities/Health Issues Panel, where he brought greetings on behalf of MUSC President Dr. David Cole and noted that MUSC has 2,700 students,13,000 employees, serves as an academic center, and is one of the largest employers within the state of South Carolina.

The University of South Carolina’s Dr. Lucy Annang Ingram, Aiken Regional Medical Centers’ Dr. Gerald Gordon, University Health Care System’s Dr. Jonathan Turner, Rural Health Services, Inc. – Clyburn Center for Primary Care’s Dr. Tiffany Goldsmith Boyd, and J&J Health Consultants’ Ms. Jeannette Jordan discussed the Graniteville chlorine gas spill (it’s aftermath/outcomes), the RISE Project, the GRACE Center, the lack of primary care physicians in the Graniteville area, diabetes care, Christ Central’s sliding scale fee, one-stop medical homes for patients, and nutrition. The program culminated with attendees collecting information pamphlets from the Information Fair, where local-area businesses and health care organizations displayed pertinent information for Graniteville residents.

Currently, PICO is now preparing to host its Charleston Climate Change Community Leaders Institute, scheduled to take place on July 16, 2016, at 9:30 am in the Charleston County Public (Main) Library’s Auditorium, located at 68 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC, 29401. If interested in attending, please register at http://pico.library.musc.edu/CLICharleston.php by July 10, 2016. This event is also free of charge. We hope to see you there.

6 • Saturday, July 2, 2016

By Dr. Lynn Kirkland Our scripture this month comes from Galatians 5:1 King James Version Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

As we consider the political season we find ourselves in, looking to one candidate or another or one political party or another to find hope we realize there is no hope – except in Jesus Christ.

The Apostle Paul begins writing about freedom by saying we must take a stand! I read an article by Dr. Charles Stanley that said church-goers today have a “commitment of convenience.”

We are not ready to stand for anything. Our so called belief system is modified by the current circumstances we find ourselves in.

Please look at the following words of Galatians Chapter 5 as taken from the Message. Let God speak to your heart on what true freedom means.

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

Freedom anything. What matters is something far more interior: faith expressed in love.

7-10 You were running superbly! Who cut in on you, deflecting you from the true course of obedience? This detour doesn’t come from the One who called you into the race in the first place. And please don’t toss this off as insignificant. It only takes a minute amount of yeast, you know, to permeate an entire loaf of bread. Deep down, the Master has given me confidence that you will not defect. But the one who is upsetting you, whoever he is, will

do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that’s how freedom grows. For everything we know about God’s Word is summed up in a single sentence: Love others as you love yourself. That’s an act of true freedom. If you bite and ravage each other, watch out—in no time at all you will be annihilating each other, and where will your precious freedom be then?

16-18 My counsel is this: Live freely, animated and motivated by God’s Spirit. Then

bear the divine judgment.

11-12 As for the rumor that I continue to preach the ways of circumcision (as I did in those pre-Damascus Road days), that is absurd. Why would I still be persecuted, then?

If I were preaching that old message, no one would be offended if I mentioned the Cross now and then—it would be so watered-down it wouldn’t matter one way or the other.

Why don’t these agitators, obsessive as they are about circumcision, go all the way and castrate themselves!

13-15 It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don’t use this freedom as an excuse to

you won’t feed the compulsions of selfishness. For there is a root of sinful self-interest in us that is at odds with a free spirit, just as the free spirit is incompatible with selfishness.

These two ways of life are antithetical, so that you cannot live at times one way and at times another way according to how you feel on any given day. Why don’t you choose to be led by the Spirit and so escape the erratic compulsions of a law-dominated existence?

19-21 It is obvious what kind of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time: repetitive, loveless, cheap sex; a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage; frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness;

Galatians 5 ~ The Message The Life of Freedom 5:1 Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand!

Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you.

2-3 I am emphatic about this.

The moment any one of you submits to circumcision or any other rulekeeping system, at that same moment Christ’s hard-won gift of freedom is squandered. I repeat my warning: The person who accepts the ways of circumcision trades all the advantages of the free life in Christ for the obligations of the slave life of the law.

4-6 I suspect you would never intend this, but this is what happens. When you attempt to live by your own religious plans and projects, you are cut off from Christ, you fall out of grace. Meanwhile we expectantly wait for a satisfying relationship with the Spirit.

For in Christ, neither our most conscientious religion nor disregard of religion amounts to

trinket gods; magic-show religion; paranoid loneliness; cutthroat competition; all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants; a brutal temper; an impotence to love or be loved; divided homes and divided lives; small-minded and lopsided pursuits; the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival; uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions; ugly parodies of community. I could go on.

This isn’t the first time I have warned you, you know. If you use your freedom this way, you will not inherit God’s kingdom.

22-23 But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people.

We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.

23-24 Legalism is helpless in bringing this about; it only gets in the way. Among those who belong to Christ, everything connected with getting our own way and mindlessly responding to what everyone else calls necessities is killed off for good—crucified.

25-26 Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. That means we will not compare ourselves with each other as if one of us were better and another worse. We have far more interesting things to do with our lives. Each of us is an original.

The Message (MSG) Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson For prayer requests or to support this ministry contact information may be found at

Saturday, July 2, 2016• 7

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

What does Independence mean?

BY MEL MINiTOR

The sad truth, most of our kids today do not have a clue as to why we celebrate the Fourth of July. Many of our schools are no longer teaching our history. I challenge you to ask your kids these basic questions: 1) What events lead up to the Revolutionary War? 2) Who was the first person to die in the American Revolution? What Race was he?

3) What was the Boston Tea Party About?

4) When did the Revolutionary War start?

5) How many colonies were there in the beginning?

6) Who was the first president?

7) When was the war of 1812 fought?

8) Who fought in the Civil War? Who Won? You will be amazed how many of our kids can not answer these basic questions.

For too long many of the young people of America have not learn about our founding fathers and do not understand nor have respect for those who have given their lives for their freedom. Our goal here is to help inform and spark an interest our history.

1) The Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party. It was said; “Taxation without representation is Tyranny.” It started with the Sugar Act of 1764. There was a purpose threepenny tax on every gallon of molasses. (That was a lot of money in that day) The Stamp Act of 1765 put a tax on newspapers, playing cards and legal documents.

The Quartering Act of 1765, that required the colonist to provide free housing, cider and beer for the British troops.

The Townshend Act of 1767, put tax on glass, paper, paint and other items imported by the colonist.

The Tea Act 1773 forced the colonist to pay revenue tax on tea sold by the Dutch.

That was to force colonist to buy the British tea.

The Intolerable Act 1774 was put on the colonist to make them pay for the tea that was dumped in the Boston harbor. There was more to follow.

2) On March 5, 1770 a group of angry citizens marched on the Old State House. It was led by Crispus Attucks. He was born of Native American and African decent. He was a free man and was the first to die. Twice the British Troops shot him in the chest. Five other citizens lost their lives that night. He and the others who died lay in state until March 8, 1770.

3) On December 16,1773 ‘The Boston Tea Party’ took place. It was over tax put on Tea by the British East India Company. This company was given a large tax rebate by the British government. The colonists saw this as a

ploy to allow the British to under sell all other tea companies. Over 7,000 citizens gathered at the Old South Church and marched on the harbor. Some forty to fifty men boarded the British ships dressed as Native Americans.

The ships were named, the Dartmouth, the Eleanor and the Beaver. This group was lead by Samuel Adams and John Hancock.

Paul Revere was also part of this group that boarded the ships and dumped the tea.

4) April 18, 1775 British General Thomas Cage was given command to restore order over the colonist. He issued warrants for Samuel Adams and John Hancock. The British also planned to destroy the patriot’s weapons. On April 18, 1775 Lieutenant Francis Smith gathered his troops and prepared to take control. Joseph Warren learn about the British plans and informed Paul Revere and Williams Dawes of their plans. That is what triggered the famous ride of Paul Revere and the start of the war on April 19, 1775 5) There were thirteen colonies. 1607 Virginia, 1620 Massachusetts, 1623 New Hampshire, 1624 New York, 1633 Connecticut and Maryland, 1638 Rhode Island and Pennsylvania, 1653 North Carolina, 1660 Jew Jersey, 1670 South Carolina and in 1733 Georgia.

Many came to America for Religious Freedom. Roman Catholics, Jews, Puritans, French Huguenots and Quakers founded America. Nowhere was Muslims named as our current leader would have us to think.

6) General George Washington was named Commander-in-Chief during the American Revolutionary War from 17751783. At the end of the war, it was unanimously decided that Washington should serve as the first President of the United States. He served from 1789 to 1997.

7) A simple trick question – 1812 known as: “second war of independence,” (You would be amazed how many kids can’t answer that question with the answer in front of them.

However, they can tell you all about Hollywood actors as to who play in Jersey shore and other shows.)

8) The Civil War was between The North - Union Troops in blue uniforms and The South - Confederate Troops in gray uniforms.

History has been twisted to say it was a war about slavery. There were many black regiments in the Confederate Army. The war was not over slavery; it was about ‘Industrial Economics.’ The first slaves in America were Irish. The fact is, Lincoln owned slaves and so did General Grant who led the Union troops.

The phrase ‘Good Help Is Hard to Find,’ came from General Grant when two months after the end of the war he was ask why he had not released his slaves. The Emancipation Proclamation was after the war was over. If you ask a

southern who won the war, most will tell you it remains to be seen!

We celebrate the Forth of July as Independence Day from being ruled by England.

American has a rich history that should be shared. To learn more about our founding father and mothers, I invite you to get a copy our book: “The Voices of Freedom 1776,” at Minitor Market. Minitor Market is an independent grocery store that is locally owned and operated. America was built and made great by small independent business. We support local farmers and manufactures of products made in South Carolina. Know that we appreciate your support, as we celebrate the birth of America.

We also wish to acknowledge and congratulate Laura DiSano, a well-known and highly regarded business consultant for the Aiken Area Small Business Development Center (SBDC) recently received the SC Small Business Development Centers’ (SC SBDC) Individual Performance Achievement Award for her work helping emerging entrepreneurs and existing small businesses flourish in the

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Aiken County, SC and Augusta, GA areas.

Laura, a consultant with the Aiken SBDC since 2010, earned this year’s Individual Performance Award for logging nearly 250 counseling sessions with more than 40 clients.

In addition to making a significant impact on the accomplishments, reputation and long-term sustainability of the small business network, DiSano contributed to the economic vitality of the Aiken community by helping start nine new businesses, generating more than $7.7million in investments and creating and retaining approximately 30 jobs. Minitor Market appreciate her support and advise!

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You may qualify if you: 1 Are a South Carolina resident 2 Are a 40 to 64-year-old woman 3 Do not have health insurance 4

or have hospitalization coverage only and Meet certain income guidelines.

For more information, contact: The American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345 (1-800-227-2345) and ask about the Best Chance Network or Sabrina Early at 803-643.2100.

www.scdhec.gov/bcn CR-011064

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8 • Saturday, July 2, 2016

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

Freedom - What is it?

BY Roger Rollins “A man’s worst difficulties begin when he is able to do as he likes.”

– Aldous Leonard Huxley “They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity – for a man is a slave to whatever has mastered him.”

– Bible On July 4th in 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress, setting the 13 colonies on the road to freedom as a sovereign nation. This uniquely American holiday will be marked by parades, fireworks and backyard barbecues across the country – fun times with family and friends.

Pontius Pilot once asked the famous and enigmatic question “What is truth?” A similar question, almost as difficult to answer, is: “What is freedom?”

Common definitions are: exemption from external control, interference, regulation, etc.;

the power to determine action without restraint. Perhaps what comes to most people’s minds is being able to do whatever you want to do.

The challenge enters in when the definition is expanded to say “being able to whatever you want to do as long as it doesn’t prevent others from doing what they want to do.”

God created the universe, everything that exists, whether it has life or is lifeless. He also created the laws that govern the universe.

They are very precise. We can send people to the moon and bring them back safely because the laws of physics work – every time!

When human kind was created, one unique quality was thrown in – the ability to choose. We have been “set free” to select from a variety of options. We even have the ability to choose life or death.

As the Bible says, “This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.”

Aiken County Recreation Center Hosts Couponing Class!

Graniteville, SC-Aiken County Parks, Recreation and Tourism will host The Diva Couponista Class taught by Aiesha Reynolds! This class offers a great interactive, learning session. Each participant will receive a helpful tips, techniques and info.

There will be a light snack, games and door prizes. $15/

person. Please RSVP with the Rec Center at 803-663-6142 or tcooks@aikencountysc.gov before class. July 9 at 11 a.m.

The Aiken County Recreation Center is located at 917 Jefferson Davis Highway (US 1) in Graniteville, SC. For more information, please call Tandra Cooks at (803) 663-6142.

If we go to the Greek language for a definition of freedom we find the implication that freedom is derived. In other words, we can exercise freedom in any given area because some authority has given us that option.

Quoting from the Declaration of Independence, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.”

Our “unalienable rights” are derived, and (theoretically) the government’s powers to secure and maintain those rights are derived from us.

As we celebrate this Independence Day, let us remember that our independence is granted to us from a higher authority and will be preserved only as long as we exercise our responsibilities under that higher authority.

Someone once said “Freedom is victory over the arbitrary.” Or put another way, true derived freedom provides structure and organization, which is the opposite of randomness or chaos.

In our marriages God has given us the ability to choose our mates and how we relate

to them. For that matter we also can decide to live together in a chaotic fashion, outside the structure provided by the freedom under God. Contrary to some teaching today, order does not follow from chaos without the exertion of an outside authority. The Second Law of Thermodynamics, one of those immutable physical laws, says that all systems left by themselves will decay to a lower energy state.

Hence if we want our marriages and our society, the family of which is foundational, to survive, we must exercise our freedom under a higher authority. For the husband and wife, this authority gives us explicit modes of behavior that promote and perpetuate the success of the marriage.

Since true freedom can only exist under authority, we are reminded that in the end we are servants, either to our own selfish desires or to the concerns and needs of others. The happy marriage consists of two servants living together in freedom under God’s authority.

The Family & Marriage Coalition of Aiken, Inc. (FAMCO) was created to provide resources for you to succeed in your marriage and families. Roger Rollins, Executive Director, FAMCO, 803-640-4689, rogerrollins@aikenfamco.com, http://www. aikenfamco.com

The Great Smoky Mountains (Bryson, NC)

October 12-13 – Join us on an overnight trip to the Great Smoky Mountains! We will sightsee and enjoy Cherokee, NC and enjoy a 4 hour climate controlled train ride on the Nantahala Gorge! $190 per person includes double occupancy hotel stay, breakfast, and 1 lunch …Laughs and Fun are free! Our hotel is a 7-minute walk from Harrah’s Casino! Spaces are limited. Please RSVP and pay by September 1. Trip will depart from

the Aiken County Government Center in Aiken, as well as the Courtney senior Center in Wagener.

Aiken County PRT’s Main Office is located at 1930 University Pkwy, Suite 2200 Aiken, SC. For more information, please call Tandra Cooks at (803) 663-6142.

The Courtney Center is located at 49 Roy Street (off of Hwy 39) in Wagener, SC. For more information, please call Carolyn Rushton at (803) 564-5211.

Saturday, July 2, 2016 • 9

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville Calendar, from Page 9 is handicapped accessible with plenty of parking. COST: $5.00/payable at time of game. aikenaugustabridge@gmail.com Maryanne Ebert 803-522-5718.

Midland Valley Area Chamber of Commerce Meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month.

Meeting time is noon.

For more information call 803-979-4476.

Midland Valley Public Library 9 Hillside Rd, Langley Operating hours are as follows: Mondays 1 to 6 p.m. | Tuesdays 2 to 6 p.m.

Wednesdays 1 to 6 p.m. | Thursdays 1 to 6 p.m.

Phone: 803-593-7379 Summer Reading Programs for all ages Thursday, July 14 2:00 Puppet Show Thursday, July 21 2:00 Games Turn in your completed reading logs to receive your prize by August 4 Megiddo Dream Station Megiddo Dream Station Graduation August 9, 2016 6:30 PM Midland Valley

Church of the Nazarene Over 80 students eligible for graduation Megiddo Work for Success Program 8 weeks, Monday- Thursday, 9:a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

September 12 – November 3 Graniteville, Aiken, North Augusta and Augusta October 3- November 22 Evans, Johnston, Edgefield and New Ellenton Available to anyone who is serious about returning to work. 95% job placement for graduates!

Megiddo Lifeview Institute Hillview Baptist Church Sept 20 – October 25, Tuesdays 6 – 8 p.m.

Available to people who are employed but seeking advancement in their career.

Call (803) 392-7044 or email donald@ megiddodreamstation.org to register!

Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Center Benefit Bank of SC: Benefit Bank Counselor assist individuals and families in completing several different applications (SNAP/Food Stamps, TANF/FI Medicaid/CHIP, FAFSA, Prescription Assistance/ Rx Assistance,

Lifeline Services, Federal and State Taxes, and Voters Registration), for several different agencies all at one time and all during one interview. Appointments available Monday & Friday 10 a.m. to noon. Call Jackie Cobbs for an appointment 803-617-9532.

GED classes: Tuesday and Thursday 5:30 to 8 p.m. Classes are free.

AA Group: Monday, Wednesday and second Saturday.

Basic Computer Class: Call Sr. Dorothy 803507-7715 Volunteers are always needed. All we ask is that you consider donating an hour or two of your time a week, a month, any amount you can give to the following: Food Pantry: driver to pick up the food (once a month), a person to unload the food truck (once a month), help restock shelves.

Receptionist: Monday or Wednesday or Friday (or Monday, Wednesday and Friday), 10 a.m. to noon.

Caseworker: Assessing the needs of the person seeking help.

Tutor: Helping students with reading, math,

English and social studies.

The Family and Marriage Coalition of Aiken Inc. 1651 Banks Mill Road, Aiken, SC 29803, www.aikenfamco.com, 803-640-4689 Walgreens, Clearwater, SC We have a Senior shopper assistant that will walk around with customers helping them shop for their products. They will also get a 20% discount on all regular priced items within the store.

Walgreens offers free blood pressure checks all day during pharmacy operating hours (9am - 9pm M-F, Saturday 9-6, and Sunday 10-6). No appointment necessary.

2nd Wednesday of every month we offer free confidential HIV testing on site from 11am-2pm.

Currently hiring for hourly positions.

To have your organizations events posted in the GVW Report Community Calendar, please email Anne Fulcher at ernieace2@ yahoo.com or call at 803-979-4476

‘We Are Rural Health Services Inc.’ Keely Gerrald, PA-C was born and raised in Aiken, South Carolina. While Keely was a student at Aiken High School, she learned about the role of a Physician Assistant and decided to pursue a career working in the primary care setting.

She attended Clemson University where she completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry and

a minor in Spanish language, graduating with honors. Keely then completed her medical training at Elon University’s Physician Assistant Program, which places a strong emphasis on improving patient care and eliminating health disparities, both locally and globally. She became a National Health Service Corps Scholar in 2014.

Becoming more educated

about health centers across the nation, she learned of the many opportunities and resources Rural Health Services, Inc provides to community members of her home town. She was thrilled by the opportunity to join the Rural Health Services team and care for patients in the community where she grew up!

She is currently accepting new patients at Family Health Care.

To provide accessible quality comprehensive primary care services in a dignified and culturally competent manner to the population in Aiken County and surrounding areas.

Clyburn Center for Primary Care 1000 Clyburn Place Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 380-7000

Margaret J. Weston Community Health Center 4645 Augusta Road Beech Island, South Carolina 29842 (803) 593-9283

Family Health Care 120 Darlington Drive Aiken, SC 29803

10 • Saturday, July 2, 2016

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

Summer Camp atcamp Hope Centerat Hope Center Summer

Campers enjoy lunch after working up an appetite

Christ Central Graniteville’s Hope Center is holding a Summer Camp for 8 weeks! It began June 13 and will continue until August 4. The camp is funded by the Ray of Hope Summer Food Program. The food and monies to pay a small kitchen staff are provided through the Department of Agriculture. Two of our Food Industry Training students are working to prepare the meals. We are providing breakfasts and lunches for camp attendees 4-18 years of age. The second week, 297 breakfasts were served and 369 lunches in the Monday through Thursday camp. The hours are from 9-12:30. Parents or guardians provide transportation.

Each day the youth are given a Bible verse to memorize.

Activities are planned which include indoor games and outside activities, such as volleyball, basketball, water balloons, kick ball, creative arts, Zumba and line dancing.

The camp is run completely by dedicated volunteers who lead and interact with the youth. Future activities will include swim lessons for some students, which was provided through a grant, visits from the Sheriff’s office, special reading times, field trips and other special events.

Kevin Brown shows young men how to tie a neck tie

Many churches in the area and outside the immediate area have provided us with volunteers to share God’s love with the children of Graniteville and beyond. We look forward to what God will do next, as we plan to start a Kids Klub at Hope Center in the fall. We will also have a preschool for 3-4 year olds, and after school mentoring. If you would like to volunteer with Summer Camp or any of these fall programs, please call us at 803-393-4575. Volunteers are needed to love on these children.

Because of the large number of campers, we are hopeful that many families will be aware of and take part in our fall training programs. These include preschool at Trinity Academy, After School Mentoring, Kids Klub, GED, Work Keys, English for Living classes and Job Readiness Training. Information will be sent home to the families to help make them aware of these additional opportunities.

Saturday, July 2, 2016 • 11

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

Quick Takes • New Construction at The Mission: Don’t be alarmed by the construction dumpster in Christ Central’s parking lot! We are doing some much needed renovations to God’s mission in an effort to live up to our motto of a Hand Up and Not a Handout by opening a thrift store. We will be putting in new doors and windows and hopefully a new awning across the front of the mission.

We need a name for our thrift store

that would best describe our vision of a Hand Up and not a Handout. Any and all suggestions are welcomed.

Please respond to Judy Floyd at JFloyd0463@aol.com or to Christ Central Aiken’s Facebook Page.

• Swimming Lessons: Many thanks to Katie Minnichen who obtained a grant for teaching swimming lessons to at risk children. The money that Katie donated from her grant was enough to provide free swimming lessons at the YMCA for ten children.

Great job, Katie!

• 12-15 Passenger Van Needed: Our transportation vehicles are very old and often unreliable. The newest one is 15 years old. The cost to repair and keep them operational continues to increase each year. Fortunately, we have a donor willing to match up to $15,000 for the purchase of a newer van. If you feel led to assist us in meeting this need, it would be much appreciated.

Sharon Quiller and Pastor Troy Nipper of Valley Fair Baptist Church are two of the many dedicated volunteers helping out with the summer camp.

SRNS savannahrivernuclearsolutions.com

12 • Saturday, July 2, 2016

GET CONNECTED

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

AIKEN COUNTY FAMILY YMCA July 2016

WATER PARK GUEST PASSES!!

WATERPARK HOURS

This summer we will be offering Guest Passes for the waterpark that members can purchase to allow guests to accompany them to the pool. Guests must sign a Liability Waiver before redeeming the Guest Pass. See front desk for details and to purchase passes.

MONDAY - FRIDAY 8am - 10am: Lap Swim and Water Aerobics Only 10am - 8pm: Water Park Open

REMINDER: Only Members in good standing are allowed to use the Express Entrance. All visitors and guests must enter through the Main Entrance and check in at the front desk.

SATURDAY 8am - 10am: Lap Swim Only 10am - 5pm: Water Park Open SUNDAY 1pm - 5pm: Water Park Open OPEN REGULAR HOURS JULY 4TH

PARENTS NIGHT OUT! Drop off your kids (Potty Trained through age 12), for an evening full of fun, games, crafts, pizza, and a movie!!

Saturday, JULY 16TH, 5:30pm-9:00pm Members: $15/child; Non-Members: $25/child 10% Sibling discount . See front desk staff to sign up!

PERSONAL TRAINING SESSIONS with Mrs. Tiara

NEW

Individual Partner Group 30 or 60 minute sessions Packages Available

FACILITY HOURS MONDAY - FRIDAY 5AM - 9PM SATURDAY 8AM - 5PM SUNDAY 1PM—5PM

CHILDWATCH HOURS

MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM - 12PM 4PM - 8PM SATURDAY 8AM - 12PM

SUMMER SWIM LESSONS FOR ALL AGES

BUILD CONFIDENCE SPLASH BY SPLASH REGISTRATION REQUIRED—OPEN NOW UPCOMING SESSION DATES July 5th - 14th July 18th - 28th August 1st - 11th Parent/Child Lessons: Ages 6mo. - 36mos.

See Front Desk for Pricing and Scheduling

Teaches water intro through positive parent and child interaction. Goal is to get swimmer adjusted to the water and learn basic skills.

BE SURE TO CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE AND THE NEW COMBINED, EASIER TO READ, GROUP X SCHEDULE FOR CHANGES OR ANY NEW CLASSES!

Teaches water adjustment and basic swimming skills with out parents in the water.

Preschool Lessons: Ages 3 - 5 years Youth Lessons: Ages 6 - 12 years Emphasizes stroke development and endurance in the traditional style of swimming.

Adult Lessons: Ages13 years and up Teaches water introduction and basic swimming skills

Lessons are for 30 mins, Monday Thursday for a total of 8 lessons.

www.thefamilyy.org • 621 Trolley Line Road • 803 349 8080 • Follow us on Facebook

Saturday, July 2, 2016 • 13

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

GVW Report Resource Center Aiken Barnwell Mental Health Center 803-641-7700 1135 Gregg Hwy., Aiken, SC 29801 Aiken Regional Medical Center 803-641-5000 302 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801 Aiken Senior Life Services (formerly the Aiken Area Council on Aging) 803.648.5447 159 Morgan St. Aiken, SC 29801 • Providing meals in a dining hall setting • Hot meal delivery to homebound seniors • Frozen meal replacement for non-delivery days or for those outside our coverage area • Non-perishable food items that require minimal cooking • Non-emergency medical transportation • Rural public transit services via the Pony Express • Transportation for shopping, social, employment, and medical services Midland Valley Public Library The Midland Valley Public Library hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 1 to 6 and Tuesday 2 to 6.

Mt. Salem Ministries; 803-646-3847 Outreach Mission Men’s Homeless Shelter Registration from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Sunday 2121 Augusta Road, Gloverville, SC (Hwy 421) “His Table” Soup Kitchen, Monday through Friday “Free lunch” from noon to 2 p.m.

3850 Augusta Road, Bath, SC (Hwy 421) All are welcome!

Rural Health Services, Inc. 803-380-7000 With offices in Aiken, Clearwater and New Ellenton Seeing patients with and without insurance.

Adult Medicine, Pediatric Medicine, Behavioral Health, Dentistry, OB/Gyn Medicine, Teen Clinic The Family and Marriage Coalition of Aiken, Inc. FAMCO is a local nonprofit corporation whose mission is to promote the acquisition of relationship skills necessary for successful families and marriages.

Resources are provided for couples getting married and those who are married and would like to improve their marriages. Resources are also provided for churches, businesses and other organizations that would like to help their members with their relationship skills.

Contact FAMCO at 803-640-4689

Aiken Senior Life Services Aiken Senior Life Services (formerly the Aiken Area Council on Aging) is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit private organization dedicated to providing a suite of services that enable Aiken’s seniors to live independently.

Our services include: • Providing meals in a dining hall setting • Hot meal delivery to homebound seniors • Frozen meal replacement for non-delivery days or for those outside our coverage area • Non-perishable food items that require minimal cooking • Non-emergency medical transportation • Rural public transit services via the Pony Express • Transportation for shopping, social, employment, and medical services In the near future, we will have a new facility that will allow us to provide more comprehensive, engaging, and intergenerational activities for individuals across Aiken County.

We have four meal sites in Aiken County. They are located in Gloverville at Our Lady of the Valley, in Wagener at Roy Warner Park, at the Roland Smith Senior Center in Jackson, and at the home office in Aiken.

For more information about our services, please visit www.aikensenior.org/ services. For more information about the transportation services, please visit www. aikensenior.org/transportation.

The address and phone number is: 159 Morgan St. | Aiken, SC 29801 |803-648-5447

The Valley Alliance The Valley Alliance is a nonprofit organization of cooperative agencies, churches, institutions, ministries, and community servants working together within the Midland Valley area for the purpose of better serving our community and its needs by building networks of support and communication, and sharing resources and services that complement each other.

The Valley Alliance meets the third Wednesday of every month, for lunch and to discuss our respective ministry activities and to share how we might best help each other with our goals and activities.

If your organization would like to join us, just show up.

If you have areas that are of interest to the betterment of the community we serve, please let a member of the Board know or you may email this address: rosegoes@ aol.com. We would be glad to hear from you. If you have any suggestions for luncheon speakers, we would also like to hear about that.

Women’s Breast Health & Imaging Center 803-641-5808 Aiken Regional Medical Center University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801 Do you or your organization offer services to those in need? Please send us your information so we can share your services to those who need them. This is a free service. For more information, contact Anne Fulcher at 803-979-4476 or ernieace2@yahoo.com.

Summer Day Camp 2016

Even though we are in the middle of construction for our new pool, Summer Camp is still a go at the Aiken County Recreation Center. We are in the middle of week 4 and we have already had visits from the Aiken County Sheriff ’s Department, Aiken Center, Savannah River Ecology Lab, Operation Get Smart, and FOTAS! There are still 6 weeks of FUN left! Camp is for ages 6-12 and runs Monday - Friday, from 7:30 am until 5:30 pm. Campers must bring a lunch, snacks are provided. Prices are $55/week, $100/2 weeks, or $20/day.

Graniteville, SC- Looking for somewhere for the kiddos this summer?? Join us at the Aiken County Recreation Center for a 10-week adventure of games, arts and crafts, and much more!

• June 6 – August 12 (closed July 4) • Monday – Friday • 7:30 am to 5:30 pm • Ages 6 to 12 • $100/2 weeks • $55/1 week • $20/day • Campers must bring their own lunch. We will provide 2 snacks.

• Off-site field trips available for additional cost Aiken County Recreation Center is located at 917 Jefferson Davis Hwy (Hwy 1) in Graniteville. For more information or to register, please call Tandra Cooks at (803) 663-6142.

14 • Saturday, July 2, 2016

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

ACTS Second Annual Car Show held at Langley Pond On Saturday, June 11, 2016, ACTS held its second annual car show. The car show was held at Langley pond and had over 30 cars and trucks on display. These amazing photographs are courtesy of Mr. Cleve Koon.

Saturday, July 2, 2016 • 15

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

Are you a member of USAA or Navy Federal Credit Union?

If so, you can benefit from a cash-back program on your real estate transactions.

Coldwell Banker® has an affiliation with these organizations.

Due to my record of excellence, I’ve been chosen to be part of the preferred agent team. As a member of this team, I’m held to a high level of accountability and customer service, and familiar with all elements of the program.

Contact me and, at no cost to you, I’ll help you enroll in the USAA or Navy Federal Credit Union real estate program, where you may be eligible for cash back at the close of escrow.

Jon Williams INSERT PHOTO HERE

Coldwell Banker United Realtors 566 Spears Creek Church Road, Elgin, SC 29045 803 603 0761 (Direct) ForceOneProperties@bellsouth.net

UNITED, REALTORS

®

Real Estate Rewards Network offered by USAA Relocation Services, Inc., a licensed real estate broker and subsidiary of USAA Federal Savings Bank. Cash back ranges from $350 - $6,000, based on sale price of home sold/purchased. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS® are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2015 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered service mark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. 11290CBUR-9/15

16 • Saturday, July 2, 2016

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

Summer safety tips and reminders Summer time is prime time for children to be active. Help keep them safe and healthy with these seasonal tips.

Swim Safety It’s a well-known practice, but it bears repeating every summer: children should never be left alone when they are in or near water, no matter how shallow. And while being nearby is important, staying focused on them is just as critical. In this age of smart phones and entertaining electronics, it’s easy to get distracted. But don’t put the phone too far away, since it’s a safe practice to have a phone with you in case of emergency.

Ensuring that your child knows how to swim is an investment in water safety that can last a lifetime. Be aware that inflatable water toys and water “wings” will not keep a child afloat. Fencing in pools and ponds is another valuable preventive measure for safety.

Especially for more mature children, remind them to never dive into an aboveground pool, never dive into an in-ground pool from the side, and never jump into a body of water when its depth is unknown. No swimming after dark is another water safety rule for older children.

Guarding Against Insects Along with the season comes an increased risk for bug bites and ticks. Different areas of the country have varying mosquito- and tickborne illnesses, so do your research before you go on vacation. Wearing long-sleeves, socks and closed-toe shoes can help to reduce exposure to insects. Try to avoid deep grass and brush, and always check your child’s body and scalp for any ticks or bites. If you find a tick, remove it and have a physician inspect the site.

Pets are also at risk for carrying insects into your home. Inspect them regularly and try to keep them away from tick-infested areas if possible.

Protection from Sun Exposure Too much of a good thing is usually not a good thing, and the sun’s rays are no exception. Ensure your child’s skin is protected from sunburn by applying sunscreen regularly. For the sensitive skin of children, try to avoid sunscreens with PABA and oxybenzone because they can cause irritation. Ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide tend to be bet-

ter tolerated and are often found in children’s sunscreen products.

Sun protection accessories such as widebrimmed hats or sunglasses can also be useful to protect against too much sun.

School is Just Around the Corner It may seem that back-to-school week creeps up faster every year. To ensure your child is healthy, current on immunizations and ahead of the curve on sports physicals, schedule appointments as early as possible. Ideally,

children should be evaluated for participation in a sport six weeks in advance of the start date. That provides enough time to address any problems identified, especially if treatment requires evaluation by a specialist.

For older children going off to school and college, health conditions such as meningitis, septicemia (blood infection) and HPV infection may pose serious risks. Vaccines for these and other illnesses can be administered prior to departure to provide potentially life-saving protection.

Aiken Regional Medical Center offers comprehensive services for children in the summer months and all year long. For an appointment or a free physician referral, call Direct Doctors Plus® at 1-800-882-7445.

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.

Saturday, July 2, 2016 • 17

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

We need YOU to be a Light of Hope serving those in Need!!!

Do you have two hours a week to help?

WHAT’S IN MY CREDIT REPORTS FACILTATED BY MS. TRUDY BOYD

Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Center 2443 Augusta Rd Gloverville, SC 29828 Contact Volunteer Coordinator: Deondra Roper Phone: 803.593.2623 or 803.857.6053

JULY 20, 2016 10:00AM

Summer

OUR LADY OF THE VALLEY CATHOLIC CENTER (LOUISE BUILDING) 2443 AUGUSTA RD, GLOVERVILLE, SC 29828

att Gregg a Greg gg g Park Park

Workshop Objectives: • What’s In My Credit Report • How to Delete Transactions from your report • One-­‐on-­‐One counseling for future purchase

Day Camp

Gregg Park’s Beach Blast will include swimming, watermelon relays, sack races, water games with whipped cream & much more! Other weeks of camp will offer magic shows/workshops, water slides, hamster balls, rock wall climbing and Bricks 4 Kidz to name a few. Daily swim time and crafts throughout the weeks. Our last day of camp, July 28th is our Grand Finale featuring an “Oldies” Dance with music from Grease and other favorite groups!

Please join us for a fun-filled, exciting Summer which will be a sure “hit” with your kids!

WEEKS OF July 18-21, July 25-28

Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Ages 5-12

Cost: $40 per week - Pass Holder $50 per week - Non Pass Holder

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: ERNEST SETTLES @ 803.593.2623

Note: All Camp participants must sign up by the Thursday before their selected camp week to avoid $10 late registration fee

1001 A Avenue 803.663.7552

Graniteville, SC 29829 www.GreggParkOnline.com

AS06-1458960

Basic Computer Skills Instructor Qualifications: • Strong Computer skills • Ability to work with adults from a variety of educational and cultural backgrounds • Patient and flexibility when teaching • Bilingual abilities maybe required

18 • Saturday, July 2, 2016

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

For strays and unwanted animals, independence and freedom can only be realized through adoption For more information about the FOTAS $10 Kitten Adoption Special, please go to www.fotasaiken.org or call the Aiken County Animal Shelter, (803) 642-1537.

By Bob Gordon, FOTAS Communications Director So far, it is has been an extraordinarily tough and challenging summer for the Aiken County Animal Shelter. In May, the facility took in 544 animals that were surrendered by owners or picked up as strays. While the shelter’s staff and Friends of the Animal Shelter (FOTAS) volunteers are used to seeing intake numbers surge in the summer, few have witnessed this many homeless animals flowing into the facility.

“The Shelter is currently in crisis mode because we are receiving so many dogs, cats, kittens and puppies and we’ve run out of room,” says FOTAS President Jennifer Miller. On a recent Monday, the shelter took in 30 animals in less than eight hours.

The shelter’s cat adoption house is packed and every dog kennel is occupiedsome of them contain more than one canine. Meanwhile, more than 27 kittens play and mew in the shelter’s lobby as they wait to be adopted and taken to forever homes.

The dogs on the adoption floor look up at visitors longingly, desperate for some permanent human love and attention. They are eager to escape the stressful kennel environment, anxious for a home of their own, where they can relax, be free and find happiness with people that will love and take care of them.

Yet, day after day, more homeless dogs and cats are picked up or surrendered to the shelter. And there are no indications the stream of homeless animals is going to let up anytime soon. Although FOTAS is working hard through every avenue to get the word out – including print, television, emails and social media – such actions can only help increase adoptions; they can’t stop the flow of animals in need.

It should be made clear, however, that the persistence and dedication of FOTAS volunteers and the shelter staff is making a difference and has boosted adoptions and placed more animals in forever homes. This achievement has come as a result of their daily efforts to make the animals more adoptable through exercise and socialization; by coordinating the transfer of locally unadoptable animals to no-kill rescues up north; and by fostering animals off-site to make more space on the adoption floor.

Still, even as the shelter tallies record numbers of adoptions and homeless pet placements, its success is dampened by the even higher number of dogs, cats, puppies and kittens flooding into the shelter each

FOTAS PetSmart Kitten Events planned for summer Saturdays As part of its mission to save homeless animals, FOTAS volunteers will be bringing adoptable kittens to the Aiken PetSmart Store on Saturdays throughout this summer. The adoption fee for all County Shelter kittens is only $10 through July 16 and all the feline toddlers showcased at PetSmart are happy, friendly and family ready! Interested folks can select the kittens they want and take them straight home from PetSmart! FOTAS Saturday kitten events take place in the back of the store, right in front of the cat condos. See you there!

day.

What will help the shelter in its fight against the soaring number of intake animals? Two crucial actions come to mind. One, more people in the County must spay/neuter their pets. This is where the overpopulation problem starts. Typically, dogs and cats are mature and efficient breeding machines at just four months of age. Both FOTAS and the County offer financial assistance to qualified pet owners for this surgery – including a voucher program, FOTAS Fix-a-Pet and a TNR (trap, neuter, release) plan. Getting your pet fixed should be a top priority.

Second, FOTAS needs more foster volunteers – folks who can take shelter canines and felines home to nurture and prepare them for future adoption opportunities. The FOTAS Foster Care system not only ensures that animals are raised in a healthy environment, it frees up limited space in the shelter for other adoptable animals.

To become a foster parent for the County’s shelter animals or volunteer in other ways, please call the FOTAS Hotline, 803-514-4313, go to www.fotasaiken.org, or email info@fotasaiken.org to help volun-

teer, foster, or donate.

FOTAS and ACAS launch $10 Kitten Adoption Special Shelter extends black cat promotion through July 16 Friends of the Animal Shelter (FOTAS) and the Aiken County Animal Shelter (ACAS) have launched a $10 Kitten Special that will continue through July 16. The shelter is also extending its $10 June adoption special for black cats and tuxedo (black with white) cats through July 16.

The County Shelter is filled to capacity with baby cats of all types and colors.

There are 27 spay/neutered kittens waiting in the lobby for new homes, plus many more on the intake side waiting to get their chance to be seen and displayed for adoption. These cute, furry purr monsters need homes and FOTAS is hoping the special will encourage people to add one or two friendly felines to their homes. The adoption fee for a County Shelter animal includes spay/neuter surgery, all vaccines and a microchip. The standard adoption fee for felines is $35.

Dog Ears Reading Program offers sessions in July The FOTAS Dog Ears Summer Program is off to a great start and has two more sessions scheduled for this month: July 9 and July 23. The Dog Ears Reading events provide an opportunity for children to work on their reading skills while also spending time with the homeless animals that need that nurturing and socialization with humans. It’s a win-win! Children 5 and older enjoy reading sessions with adoptable shelter animals overseen by FOTAS volunteers.

Upcoming Dog Ears Reading events are scheduled on June 11, June 25, July 9 and July 23. The Saturday events take place from 11 AM to 1 PM. Reservations are required since space is limited. If interested in attending these upcoming events, please call 803.514.4313.

Reminder for July 4 Holiday: Please keep your pets inside and protect them from the noise!

Bring your animals inside during the July 4th weekend fireworks celebrations.

The loud noises scare dogs and cats, often causing them to run away from home.

Each year, the shelter sees a surge in lost and stray animals the week after July 4th weekend. A parade of people looking for their lost pets shows up at the front door and it is heartbreaking to see.

Protect your pets this holiday weekend.

Bring them inside before the noises of fireworks, firecrackers and bottle rockets start filling the air.

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

Saturday, July 2, 2016 • 19

20 • Saturday, July 2, 2016

Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville

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302 University Parkway • Aiken, SC 29801 Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Talk with your doctor about these risks to find out if bariatric surgery is right for you.

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. 161253 6/16