Saturday, July 8, 2017
Graniteville • Vaucluse • Warrenville
Vol. 3, No. 6
Celebrating Independence by Anne Fulcher
According to Webster’s Dictionary, “ the definition of independence for English Language Learners. freedom from outside control or support: the state of being independent. : the time when a country or region gains political freedom from outside control.” As children, we are raised to be independent and be able to take care of ourselves but there is much more to independence that what the definition states. July 4th celebrates the independence of the United States from foreign rule. We celebrate freedom that comes with the independence of our country but are we REALLY independent? We must have an income of some sorts to survive; we must have food/sustenance to
maintain our body’s health and well-being. We must have a place that allows us to sleep or our body will shut down. We need people in our lives to keep us mentally adept and stimulated. So, in essence, we are not as independent as the definition implies. I depend on my family and friends to hear me tell the good and the bad of my day and I also need to be there for them if they need me. Helping others makes me feel like I am playing an integral role in the lives of others. I guess that is why I spent so many years in the healthcare profession. My need to be a caregiver makes me dependent on those who may need my help and or assistance. I love to play problem solver and many times that need makes me VERY dependent on those people who have a problem that can’t find a solution to.
Local, state and federal law that regulates what is legal and what is not in our lives governs us, the people. So we are independent to a certain degree. And then there are the spiritual laws of the Bible we choose to live by. There have been rules since the beginning of time and there always will be. Today, more so than ever! But the rules of life and living give us the independence that we are privileged to have as residents of the United States. The words of the Martina McBride song ring true today, Let freedom ring, let the white dove sing let the whole world know that today Is a day of reckoning. Let the weak be strong, let the right be wrong roll the stone away, let the guilty pay it’s Independence Day.
2 • Saturday, July 8, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Community Calendar Aiken County Recreation Center Room Rentals Available
The Recreation Center is available for birthday parties, baby showers, family dinners and more! Call Tandra at 663.6142 for rental rates and reservations.
Area Churches Together Serving (ACTS) July 10-July 25 - Come to both of ACTS Resale Stores (Aiken @ 401 Hayne Ave and Graniteville @ 50 Canal Street) and celebrate ‘Christmas in July - 12 Days of Christmas’ with fabulous sales each day. See what’s on sale each day on Facebook at https://Facebook.com/actsresal estore and https://Facebook.com/ 2ndactsresale July 15 @ 8:00-9:30 am - Senior Food Program for ACTS clients, t ACTS of Aiken, 340 Park Ave., SW July 27, 28, 29 @ 7:30 pm - An original musical “From Charleston With Love” based on the lore of the railroad coming to Aiken. At the AECOM Performing Arts Center, Newberry St, in downtown Aiken. Proceeds will benefit ACTS. Call 648-1438 or 649-3800 for information. August 2 @ 4:00-8:00 pm - Marco’s Pizza will donate 15% of all sales to ACTS on the first Wednesday every month. Please go out and enjoy delicious Marco’s pizza and support ACTS. (442 Silver Bluff Rd, Aiken, SC; on the corner next to Ross and TJ Maxx.) No tickets required. Coffee with JoJo will be suspended for the summer (July & August). Watch for notice of the re-start in September.
Christ Central Graniteville (Hope Center) Call Hope Center 803.393.4575 to sign up for any of these classes. Hope Center is located at 3 Hickman Street, Graniteville, SC 29829
WorkKeys® Mondays and Wednesdays 9 - noon. FREE GED Prep Mondays and Wednesdays 9 - noon. FREE Turning the Pages Ministry led by Rev. Dr. Gollie Walker. Tuesday July 18 at 7 pm. FUSE Newspring Youth Group Wednesdays 6:30-8:30 pm ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Course and Exam July 24, 8 am - 5 pm with Karen Tempel. Deadline to register is July 10. Cost $100 + books and exam voucher. Health Fair September 22, 10:00 - 3:30 FREE
Gregg Park Civic Center www.greggparkonline.com
Waterfront Swimming Come join us this summer for “cooling off ” in one of the area’s few available, natural swimming spots. Gregg Park’s Waterfront is open for passholders and their guests ($5 per guest). Clean, white, pristine beach area with clear and cool water. Family-friendly atmosphere offering picnicking, concessions and certified lifeguards. Open for Swimmers Monday-Thursday and Saturdays from 12:00 – 6:00 p.m. Sunday hours are 1:30-5:00 p.m. For More information, please call the park at 663-7552. Summer DayCamp Camp will be offered for Ages 5-12. Cost is $50 per week per Camper for Pass holders and $60 per week per Camper for Non-pass holders. Camp weeks are June 19-22, June 26-29, July 17-20, July 24-27. Camp will be held Monday – Thursday from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. **Limited Registration. *Late Registration Fee $10.00 Cheerleading Registration *Limited Registration* Registration will be held Monday – Thursday on August 7-10, August 14-17 and August 21-24, from 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Ages: 5-12 (As of Sept. 1st). Cost is $85.00 to registration. For more information, please call the park at 663-7552. LITE-SIDE A senior’s class for those who desire a vigorous and funfilled 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 803-6637552. 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 Tuesday 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
See Calendar, Page 3 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 Alison South Marketing
Saturday, July 8, 2017 • 3
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Free to Do Whatever We Want? “While we are free to choose our actions, we are not free to choose the consequences of our actions.” – Stephen R. Coveys “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – Bible On July 2, 1776, the Congress voted for independence from Great Britain. The Declaration of Independence was first published two days later on July 4, 1776. Today we celebrate Independence Day on the 4th of July every year. Our celebrations place a great deal of emphasis on the American traditional of political freedom. We also remember and are thankful for those who fought for the freedom and liberties we now enjoy. Those freedoms also include religious freedom – we are able to worship as we choose without fear. These freedoms did not come without cost. The original signers of the Declaration of Independence knew what their signatures would
mean. Many lost their property and their families and some died as a consequence. They were willing to die so future generations would be able to live in freedom. I wonder how well collectively and individually we have handled our freedoms. William Golding, in his classic book “Lord of the Flies”, describes what happens to a group of young boys marooned on an island. In the midst of freedom from all controls, chaos arises. The late radio commentator Paul Harvey used to say that self-government won’t work without self-discipline. Does freedom mean the removal of all restraints? How do we handle freedom properly? Freedom can be defined simply as the absence of necessity, coercion, or constraint in choice or action. In other words, we are able to do whatever we desire. A quote from somewhere says my freedom ends where yours begins. I’m not sure I fully understand or agree, but it is true that our ability to exercise our freedoms must be considerate of others. Although this discussion could range far and wide, let’s confine it to marriage. When the man and woman become husband and wife,
Calendar Continued from 2 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 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.
the two “become one.” What affects one affects the other. The actions of one also affect the other. Hence freedom must be exercised with extreme caution. Jim Daly, with Focus on the Family, writes “Any husband or wife has the freedom to walk away from a marriage or sabotage the one they are in. Sadly, many do just that -- which is why millions of children will be celebrating July 4th this year without a mother or father in the home. Parents have the freedom to cheat or divorce – but do they have the moral obligation not to? Of course they do.” Those marriages and families which function most effectively do so because they have clearly established boundaries. Husbands and wives feel most free when they are able to function according to God’s design for them in a marriage relationship. The fact that there is design for our lives implies structure, order, boundaries. We are best able to fulfill the plan and purpose for our lives when we recognize and adhere to the boundaries set in place which then protect our freedom. Children also function best and are most fulfilled when they are given controls that govern their behavior. They know that their parents care enough to establish and enforce boundaries that are designed to protect them. They also are relieved from having to make decisions about behavior that is beyond their current level of maturity. As we celebrate with our family and friends
Resistance Band Training. Mondays and Wed, 6 to 6:30 p.m 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.
the freedoms we have in this wonderful country, consider these words from the 4th verse of our national anthem, the Star Spangled Banner. “Oh! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand Between their loved home and the war’s desolation! Blest with victory and peace, may the heav’n rescued land Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation. Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just, And this be our motto: “In God is our trust.” And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!
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, www.aikenfamco.com. Whether you are thinking about getting married, wondering how to make your marriage better, looking for help for your marriage, or wanting to help others, FAMCO can provide you with resources and tools that will assist you.
Operating hours are as follows: Mondays 1 to 6 p.m., Tuesdays 2 to 6 p.m., Wednesdays 1 to 6 p.m. and Thursdays 1 to 6 p.m. Phone: 803-593-7379
Megiddo Dream Station
Tennis Clinics, tennis clinics for ages 5 and up. Instruction will be given on saturdays from 9 a.M. -11:00 A.M. With gabrielle morgan as the instructor. Cost is $10 for members and an additional fee of $3.00 For non members. Please bring water bottle, racquet. Learn the basic rules of play, stroke instruction, drills and fun games.
Megiddo Dream Station Work for Success Program. Call 803-392-7044 or drop by 103 Canal St Graniteville to set up registration. Over 300 people have successfully returned to the workforce after completing our 8 week program.
Midland Valley Area Chamber of Commerce
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Center
Meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month. Meeting time is noon. For more information call 803-645-9720.
Midland Valley Public Library 9 Hillside Rd, Langley
Food Pantry is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 am-11:45 am Emergency Assistance by Appointment Only Monday, Wednesday & Friday. Please Call 803-593-2623 to schedule.
See Calendar, Page 4
4 • Saturday, July 8, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Live Healthy, Stay Healthy! such as brisk walking and bicycling. • Incorporating physical activity into your weekly schedule can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower your cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
4. Do not smoke
By living a healthy lifestyle and getting regular checkups, you and your family can minimize the risk of illness and take charge of your health. Follow the healthy living tips below to get on the right path and stay healthy.
1. Eat a healthy diet
– this means fresh fruits, vegetables, foods low in unhealthy fats and foods high in fiber. • Eat less saturated fat. Saturated fat comes from animal products (like cheese, fatty meats, and dairy desserts) and tropical oils (like palm oil). • Avoid trans fats, which may be in baked goods like cookies and cake, snack foods like microwave popcorn, fried foods and margarines. • Limit foods that are high in cholesterol, including fatty meats and organ meat such as liver and kidney. • Choose low-fat or fat-free milk, cheese and yogurt. • Eat more foods that are high in fiber. This
Calendar
includes oatmeal, oat bran, beans and lentils. • Eat a heart-healthy diet that includes plenty of vegetables and fruits and is low in salt and sugar.
2. Maintain a healthy weight
– identify and strive to maintain a healthy weight and body mass index (BMI) for your body size. • Being overweight or obese increases your risk for high cholesterol. • Doctors can calculate your BMI. If you know your weight and height, you can calculate your BMI yourself by accessing online tools such as the one available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov.
3. Get enough physical activity
– incorporate the recommended amount of exercise into your schedule; two hours and 30 minutes weekly for adults and one hour daily for children. • Practice moderate-intensity exercises
– quitting smoking will lower your risk for heart disease. • Cigarette smoking damages blood vessels, accelerates hardening of the arteries and significantly increases the risk for heart disease. • If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, your doctor can suggest ways to help you quit.
5. Limit alcohol use
– avoid drinking more than the recommended limit of no more than two a day for men and one a day for women.
Getting Regular Checkups
Practicing healthy living goes a long way, but staying current with your annual checkups and preventive care can also help you stay healthier. For adults, this can include getting blood pressure and cholesterol checks, getting screened for cancers like lung or colorectal, getting tested for sexually transmitted dis-
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), Continued from 3 should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA The Benefit Bank - by Appointment only contact Jackie through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Cobb at 803 -617-9532 Additionally, program information may be made ACOA Senior Program - Monday- Friday 9:00am- 12:00pm available in languages other than English. GED- Tuesday and Thursday 4:30pm-8:00pm To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete Alcoholic Anonymous: Monday & Wednesday & 2nd the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, Saturday 8:00 pm (AD-3027) found online at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/ complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or In accordance with Federal civil rights law and write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights all of the information requested in the form. To request a regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit and employees, and institutions participating in or your completed form or letter to USDA by: administering USDA programs are prohibited from (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil Rights rights activity in any program or activity conducted or 1400 Independence Avenue, SW funded by USDA.
eases, talking with a doctor about alcohol or tobacco use, preventing diseases like Type 2 diabetes, discussing depression, getting help with weight loss and nutrition and getting important vaccines. For women, getting a well-woman visit, choosing birth control, getting a bone density test, getting screened for breast and cervical cancer, discussing folic acid needs for those who could become pregnant and getting protection from relationship violence. For children, the list includes timely physical exams, getting vaccines on schedule, development monitoring, screening for depression, tests for hearing and vision, testing for lead exposure, screening for obesity, and tests and guidance for those who may be sexually active.
Healthcare Resources in the Aiken Area Aiken Regional Medical Centers provides several options for getting regular checkups and preventative care, as well as consultations for healthy living. For a free physician referral, call Direct Doctors Plus® at 800-8827445. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov. This institution is an equal opportunity provide . The Family and Marriage Coalition of Aiken, Inc. 1651 Banks Mill Road, Aiken, SC 29803, www. aikenfamco.com 803-640-4689 The Valley Alliance Valley Alliance meets at Langley Bible Church (formerly Langley Pentecostal Holiness Church).on the third Wednesday of each month from 11:30 until 12:30. For more information, contact Rosealind Morse at rosegoes@aol.com. To have your organizations events posted in the GVW Report Community Calendar, please email Anne Fulcher at ernieace2@yahoo.com or call at 803-9794476
Saturday, July 8, 2017 • 5
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
FREE
Screenings
Clinical Breast exam Pelvic exam
Pap smear (if needed) Mammogram
You may qualify if you:
Are a South Carolina resident 2 Are 30 to 64-year-old woman 3 Have high-deductible health insurance, and/or diagnostic insurance coverage less than 100%, hospitalization coverage only, or have no health insurance, and Meet certain income guidelines. 1
Effective July 1, 2016 thru June 29, 2017 Based on the total number of people in the household. Household Size
Income
1 person
$23,540 or less
2 people
$31,860 or less
3 people
$40,180 or less
4 people
$48,500 or less
5 people
$56,820 or less
6 people
$65,140 or less
Add $8,320 for each additional family member.
If you are eligible and interested in receiving these free services, please find the county you live in and call the BCN contact person in your area.
4
For more information, contact: Call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345 (1-800-227-2345) and ask about the Best Chance Network
www.scdhec.gov/bcn
Best Chance Network (BCN) Income Eligibility Guidelines
CR-011064 6/16
Joyce Hudson, Community Health Worker 843.264.2899
Sabrina Early, Community Health Worker: 803.643.2100
Abbeville, Berkeley, Charleston, Chesterfield, Clarendon, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Greenwood, Horry, Laurens, Lee, McCormick, Marion, Marlboro, Orangeburg, Saluda, Sumter & Williamsburg
Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Calhoun, Colleton, Dorchester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lexington, Newberry, & Richland
Evelyn Lugo, Hispanic/Latino Outreach Coordinator: 864.240.4256 Anderson, Cherokee, Chester, Greenville, Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg, Union & York
July 2016
6 • Saturday, July 8, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
FOTAS:
Animals seek independence from County Shelter during adoption special FOTAS and the Aiken County Animal Shelter launched its $17.76 Declaration of Independence Adoption Special on Saturday, July 1. Dogs can be adopted for just $17.76 and cats and kittens are only $10 through July 8. Help these homeless dogs and cats declare their freedom and independence from the Shelter by taking advantage of this limited time promotion! For more information, call the Aiken County Shelter, 803.642.1537. Some of the wonderful but homeless dogs and cats seeking to be adopted include:
Rigby: the lone puppy
RIGBY is a 3-month-old Hound mix puppy that arrived at the Shelter as a stray. He is a little shy and afraid in the Shelter but loves people and attention. RIGBY will just need a little extra TLC from whoever is lucky enough to adopt him! This sweet boy is already 23 pounds and still has some growing to do. He can be yours for just $17.76 through July 8 (this Saturday)!
Ralph: a cool cat
RALPH is one of the friendliest cats you’re ever going to meet. This 2-year-old Tabby will walk right up to you and say hello with his cute, squeaky, “Meow!” When he’s not enjoying the affections of
the nearest human, this gregarious guy likes to play with feather toys.
at home, plus he had a fenced-in yard and a kiddie pool for her to play in! When Jimmy came to visit Lucie, he wasn’t sure if he was ready for a new dog following his last dog’s passing. But as soon as he spent some time with Lucie, he knew she was going home with him. Now, Lucie is Jimmy’s roommate and constant companion. They recently visited the Shelter and sad-eyed Lucie looked extremely happy. Thank you, Jimmy, and congratulations, Lucie!
Little Buddy: needs human pal
LITTLE BUDDY is a special and handsome 4-month-old Domestic Shorthair kitten who loves human attention. This light orange Tabby is a very active and happy guy and just needs a human playmate and loving home to gain independence from the Shelter. He is just $10 through this Saturday, July 8.
Rolo: a gentle giant
ROLO, a terrific Mastiff mix now on the Shelter’s adoption floor, is a very friendly and calm 3-year-old dog and a big boy at 81 pounds! He arrived as a stray and needs a loving home with a fenced-in yard. He would do best as the only dog in the house. ROLO is just $17.76 through July 8.
Sad-eyed Lucie finds her match and finally gets a forever home
LUCIE, a red Terrier/Boxer mix who continually was passed over by potential adopters, seemed to be giving up hope that she would find her forever home. While she was quickly becoming a Shelter staff favorite and popular with the FO-
Lucie gets adopted.
Submitted Photo
TAS volunteers because of her expressive face and sweet personality, she wasn’t getting much attention from visitors. Day after day, she’d see other dogs leave the shelter with new owners while she was virtually unnoticed. It was wearing on her and she started to get depressed. Lucie did have one trait that made her more difficult to adopt – she didn’t get along with most other dogs so she needed to be the only canine in a one-dog home. Also, since she is happiest when around people, going home with folks who couldn’t spend a lot of time with her was out of the question. But then Jimmy Miles called to ask about the sad-eyed, two-year-old dog. The Aiken man saw her photo on the FOTAS Facebook page and wanted to meet her. Jimmy said he didn’t have any other pets
Submitted Photo
FOTAS Dog Ears Reading Session for kids is July 12
On Wednesday, July 12, FOTAS will be featuring another Dog Ears Reading event at the Aiken County Animal Shelter from 1:30 to 3:30. This is a special opportunity for children 5 years of age and older to read to dogs and cats in need. Not only does the activity build your child’s reading confidence and help socialize the animals, but it’s also a lot of fun! Reservations are required. Just call 803.514.4313 or email to info@fotasaiken. org.
Saturday, July 8, 2017• 7
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Submitted Photo
Houdini shows off his charm.
Stella gets a home with the Hall family of Aiken.
Houdini charms folks at County Visitors Center HOUDINI, a 1-year-old Retriever/ Husky mix, enjoyed his trip to the Aiken County Visitors Center last month. FOTAS Volunteers Jeri Wesner and Melanie Oldham took the always smiling HOUDINI to “Furever Friends Friday” at the center from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. so people could see what a great dog he is and learn more about FOTAS and the Shelter. The exposure helped. HOUDINI was adopted a few days later.
10-year-old girl celebrates birthday by donating food to the Shelter animals
Thank you to Christina Proctor, who just turned 10 years old, for donating food, treats and other goodies to the Shelter animals. Instead of traditional presents, Christina asked her birthday party guests to bring her something she could give to the homeless dogs and cats at 333 Wire Road. FOTAS truly appreciates such generosity and kindness. Thanks again, Christina, and Happy Birthday!
Submitted Photo
Submitted Photo
Blue gets adopted by Robert Copley of Aiken.
Adoptions bring smiles
Thank you to the fantastic folks who recently adopted animals from the Aiken County Shelter! You gave these animals forever homes and a second chance at a good life. We appreciate you looking out for these cats and dogs in need, and all the support the local community gives to FOTAS and the animals at the County Shelter.
Beautifying the County Shelter with flower donations
FOTAS Volunteers Bonnie White and Gale Hovey donated f lowers to beautify the County Shelter located at 333 Wire Road. Bonnie, seen here with Shelter Adoption Coordinator Hillary Clark-Kulis, planted a new f lower garden in front of the shelter’s sign. She is a master gardener and did a terrific job.
Bruce goes home with the Pressley family of Aiken.
Submitted Photo
8 • Saturday, July 8, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Celebrating Independence
by Mel Minitor
We as Americans have become complacent in our way of life. Too often we forget the sacrifices that our fathers and forefathers made. Perhaps you have read the following statements in history books, but it is something we should review and ponder. Have you ever wondered what happened to the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence? Five signers were captured by the British as traitors, and tortured before they died. Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned. Two lost their sons serving in the Revolutionary Army; another had two sons captured.Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or hardships of the Revolutionary War. They signed and they pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor. What kind of men were they? Twentyfour were lawyers and jurists. Eleven were merchants, nine were farmers and large plantation owners; men of means, well-educated, but they signed the Declaration of Independence knowing full well that the penalty would be death if they were captured. Carter Braxton of Virginia, a wealthy planter and trader, saw his ships swept from the seas by the British Navy. He sold his home and properties to pay his debts, and died in rags. Thomas McKeam was so hounded by the British that he was forced to move his family almost constantly. He served in the Congress without pay, and his family was kept in hiding. His possessions were taken from him, and poverty
was his reward. Vandals or soldiers looted the properties of Dillery, Hall, Clymer, Walton, Gwinnett, Heyward, Ruttledge, and Middleton. At the battle of Yorktown, Thomas Nelson, Jr., noted that the British General Cornwallis had taken over the Nelson home for his headquarters. He quietly urged General George Washington to open fire. The home was destroyed, and Nelson died bankrupt. Francis Lewis had his home and properties destroyed. The enemy jailed his wife, and she died within a few months. John Hart was driven from his wife’s bedside as she was dying. Their 13 children fled for their lives. His fields and his gristmill were laid to waste. For more than a year he lived in forests and caves, returning home to find his wife dead and his children vanished. So, take a few minutes and reflect on what the 4th of July is truly about and silently thank these patriots. It’s not much to ask for the price they paid. Remember: freedom is never free! We thank these early patriots, as well as those patriots now fighting to KEEP our freedom! It’s time we get the word out that patriotism is NOT a sin, and the Fourth of July has more MEANING to it than beer, fireworks, HOT DOGS, and picnics...... Special thanks to my friend Bob Jungles for his contribution to this article. Don’t forget America was built by independent businessmen and women. Please support your hometown businesses. They’re what made America great!!
Minitor Market, We have the Meats You Love… At The Prices You Expect… From Faces You Know… YOU SAVE MONEY
Check us out on FaceBook/ MinitorMarket/ for Daily Specials!! Your Hometown Tradition 1161 Augusta Rd. Warrenville, SC www.MinitorMarket.com
Saturday, July 8, 2017 • 9
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
GVW Report Resource Center ACTS of Graniteville - Area Churches Together Serving
Providing services including a Resale Store (2nd ACTS) located in Graniteville @ 50 Canal Street in the Masonic Shopping Center, Suite 6. Services for Graniteville and Vaucluse residents. By appointment, Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am-2pm - call 803 392-7146; 2ndACTS Resale Store (open to the public), Mon-Fri 10am-5pm & Sat 9am-1pm
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 Aiken Barnwell Mental Health Center Sunday 2121 Augusta Road, Gloverville, SC (Hwy 803-641-7700 1135 Gregg Hwy., Aiken, SC 29801 421) “His Table” Soup Kitchen, Aiken County Veterans Affairs Office Monday through Friday Dwight Bradham, Director “Free lunch” from noon to 2 p.m. 1930 University Parkway, Suite 2305 3850 Augusta Road, Bath, SC (Hwy 421) Aiken, SC 29801 All are welcome! Phone Number: (803) 642-1545 Rural Health Services, Inc. Email Address: 803-380-7000 Dbradham@aikencountysc.gov With offices in Aiken, Clearwater and New Ellenton Aiken Regional Medical Center Seeing patients with and without insurance. 803-641-5000 Adult Medicine, Pediatric Medicine, 302 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801 Behavioral Health, Dentistry, OB/Gyn Medicine, Teen Clinic
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
The Aiken Center
Addiction Services for Aiken County. 1105 Gregg Hwy., Aiken, SC info@aikencenter.org, 803*649*1900, www. aikencenter.org.
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
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 803-9794476 or ernieace2@yahoo.com.
10 • Saturday, July 8, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Chandler Law Firm, MAU Workforce, Aiken Electric Cooperative Inc., and the Aiken Family YMCA will host this years seventh annual Fit 4 School event. The event will be held Saturday, August 5th, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Aiken Family YMCA, 621 Trolley Line Road, Graniteville. Aiken School of Cosmetology and Barbering will be providing free haircuts and manicures. Free health screenings will be provided by Aiken Ophthalmology, Hearing Associates of South Carolina, and Aiken Professional Association. Students will receive free school supplies to prepare them for the upcoming school year while teachers will also receive classroom supplies! Donations can be dropped off at any local YMCA. Entertainment will include Franko the Magician, Aiken Civic Ballet, Uncle Sam’s Magic and Balloon Show, a DJ, face painting, inflatables and more. For more information or to become a vendor, visit www.fit4schoolsc.com, www.facebook.com/ fit4school or email fit4schoolaiken@gmail.com .
Saturday, July 8, 2017 • 11
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
On July 16, 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower established the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition (known then as the President’s Council on Youth Fitness). For 60 years, the Council has been working to improve the health and well-being of millions of children, adults, and families. While our programs and mission have evolved over the years, and the Council’s leadership has
changed, the health of Americans of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities remains a national priority. The Council, in partnership with the National Fitness Foundation, is commemorating the Council’s 60th anniversary with the launch of the #0to60 Campaign. #0to60 is a national public engagement cam-
paign dedicated to inspiring Americans to accelerate their journey toward an active and healthy life. We invite everyone to join the journey from zero to sixty. No matter where you are starting, we want to help you increase your momentum to going from #0to60. The fastest way to living healthy starts right now!
#0to60 Challenge The fastest way to living healthy starts right now. Start your journey by taking the #0to60 Challenge today! For the next 60 days, #0to60 challenges you to start living your healthiest life! Rise to the challenge by committing to be active your way. You can increase your daily physical activity, or make delicious and nutritious meals. This #0to60 Challenge is for everyone - fitness beginners, weekend warriors, athletes, kids, and families. The Challenge was designed to inspire all Americans to accelerate their journey to a healthy lifestyle by going #0to60 every day. Are you ready? Head over to 0to60fitness.org and start now!
12 • Saturday, July 8, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Steamy days ahead!
Remember skin safety. The American Cancer Society recommends taking these steps to stay sun-safe: • Cover up. • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. • Seek shade when the sun’s UV rays are strongest, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. • Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps. • Keep very young children (6 months or less) out of the sun.
For more information, call the Cancer Care Institute of Carolina at 803-641-5833.
111 Miracle Drive | Aiken, SC 29801 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. 170132