Saturday, August 12, 2017
Graniteville • Vaucluse • Warrenville
Vol. 3, No. 3
Let the School Bells Ring BY ANNE FULCHER It is just hard to imagine that another summer has come to pass and students are preparing to return to the classroom. But this year I find myself a bit melancholy about this topic. A major educational landmark in the state will no long hear the laughter and voices of students and teachers alike. A school that held many memories and traditions for thousands of students that called themselves Leavelle McCampbell Rocks. While I did not attend Leavelle McCampbell, I did attend the school’s arch rival being LangleyBath-Clearwater. The two schools used to have one of the biggest rivalries in the two-state area. Having been in the high school marching band at L.B.C., there was a many a football game spent marching at the Leavelle McCampbell football field during half time. Fond memories, I might add, of how much the students of each school cherished their alma mater and the competition between them. And believe me when I tell you that the loyalty STILL holds true to each one of us this very day. But the key to this is, while some will argue with you, both schools are in the
Valley. Geographically located between North Augusta and Aiken we are literally in a valley. There is no denying the fact that the Valley area consists of many villages that were once vibrant in the textile industry. Generation after generation of family members worked in the mills whether it was United Merchants and Manufacturers or the Graniteville Company, these mills help raise and educate us. I will never forget the first year I worked at Clearwater Finishing Plant taking inventory during the sweltering heat of July. While working those two weeks of plant shut down, I realized just how hard my Mom, as well as most of the parents of my friends worked in these mills to provide for us. When I read Alivia Brewre’s salutatorian address she gave at the 2017 Midland Valley High School graduation, it sparked a flame which made me recognize that, yes, in fact I, too, am Valley strong. Growing up in a three room mill house with two strong female role models, now I realize how I became who I am today. I had no choice but to work hard, study hard, be decent and respect those around me. All those characteristics are what we were taught while growing up in the Valley,
both then and now. For some reason, that I have yet to understand, the stigma of living in the Valley is still alive and well. By many people’s ideals, I grew up poor in the Valley but in my eyes, I grew up with more love than most could ever dream of having. You see the people of the Valley look after one another and when Hillary Clinton spoke of it taking a village to raise a child, she did not know that the Valley people have been doing that for hundreds of years. Helping look after their neighbors, co-workers and church family. So regardless of which part of the Valley you are from, know that we are made Valley strong by the Grace of God and the luck of being born and/or raised in the area. The Rocks and the Lions are no longer but combined forces to create the Mustangs and we all shall raise our children to continue to be Valley Strong and Mustang proud!
2 • Saturday, Aug. 12, 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 803-6636142 for rental rates and reservations.
Area Churches Together Serving (ACTS) • Aug. 1-31 – ACTS is celebrating its 31st year of ministry. There will be giant sales in both of ACTS Resale Stores (in Aiken at 401 Hayne Ave. and in Graniteville at 50 Canal St). See our Facebook pages at https://Facebook.com/actsresalestore and https://Facebook.com/2ndactsre sale for more details and store hours. Come celebrate! Every Monday during the month of August: Bring in 3 cans of food to donate and get a bag to stuff with clothing for 31 cents. Every Friday during the month of August: Pay only 31 percent of the original price for any item in either resale store • Aug. 19 at 8 to 9:30 a.m. – Senior Food Program for ACTS clients, at ACTS of Aiken, 340 Park Ave., SW • Sept. 4 – ACTS will be closed in observance of Labor Day. We will resume normal hours on September 5 • Sept. 6 from 4 to 8 p.m. – 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 Road, Aiken, on the corner next to Ross and TJ Maxx). No tickets are required.
Christ Central Graniteville (Hope Center)
Call Hope Center, 3 Hickman St., Graniteville, at 803-393-4575 to sign up for any of these classes. • WorkKeys®: Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon. • GED Prep: Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon., free • Caregiver WorkshopTuesday through Friday, Aug. 22-25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., free and includes lunch. • Eye Clinic:Wednesday, Aug. 23, 1-5 p.m. • Turning the Pages Ministry:Led by Rev. Dr. Gollie Walker on Aug. 22 at 7 pm. • FUSE Newspring Youth Group: Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. • ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Course and Exam: Sept. 25 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with Karen Tempel. Deadline to register is Sept. 11. Cost is $100 plus books and exam voucher. • Health Fair:Sept. 22 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; free • Trinity Academy Preschool f or 3- and 4-year-olds begins Sept. 5. Register at Hope Center. Class size is limited.
Gregg Park Civic Center
www.greggparkonline.com
CHEERLEADING REGISTRATION *Limited Registration* Registration will be held Monday through Thursday, Aug. 14-17 and Aug. 21-24 from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. for ages 5-12 (as of Sept. 1). Registration cost is $85. For more information, call the park at 803-663-7552. FOOTBALL REGISTRATION Registration is now being taken for Youth Football Monday through Thursday until Aug. 24 (or until rosters are filled) for ages 5-12 with Sept. 1 as the cut-off date. Cost is $50 for passholders and $65 for non-passholders; flag is $40 for 5 and 6-year-olds). For more information, call the park at 803-663-7552. LITE-SIDE A senior’s class for those who desire a vigorous and funfilled workout will be held with certified instructor Wendy Moore, who will demonstrate the latest techniques for health conscious adults, on Mondays and Wednesday from 9 to 10 a.m. For more information, call the park at 803-6637552. Free of charge. LINE DANCE Line dancing classes for rock ‘n’ roll, country and beach music 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. Walk inside the gym or outside on our beautiful and serene ½-mile walking track. For more information, call the park at 803-663-7552. New session continues through April 6. KARATE Karate classes are taught by Brian Randall 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 free of charge, performed by certified nurse Jeanne Townes the first and third Tuesday of each month from 4 to 6 p.m.
UNLIMITED EXERCISE CLASSES PER MONTH $10 per month for passholders and $15 per month for nonpassholders CARDIO/WEIGHT CLASS A 30/30 Cardio and Weight Class consisting of a cardio workout and followed by light weights for toning and abdominal work is held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. with instructor Becky Geeting.
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 Karen Klock
This Month’s Sponsors Aiken Regional Medical Centers Aiken Technical College 2nd Acts
Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017 • 3
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
‘Valley strong’ Midland Valley High School 2017 Salutatorian Speech By Alivia Brewre
T
hough I began my life in the city of Aiken, I have laid roots in the Valley. I have grown with all of you, and in my years, I have seen what some may fail to. To communicate this, I have prepared a spoken word. – What they do not understand is that when they call us Valley, it is not an insult. We wear the name like a cape; we stand tall. To be Valley is to be authentic, unlike those surrounding us. For us, 421 is a lifestyle Alivia Brewe, daughter of Jamie Brewe, graduated on June 2, 2017 as salutamore than it is a place, and yes, Grantorian at Midland Valley High School. Miss Brewe will be attending the Honiteville is just as much Valley as the rest ors College of Charleston majoring in of us. We all love Shoeshine and Moped Secondary Education and a minor in Danny. We all came from humble begin- Spanish with plans to teach High School Spanish. She is part of several clubs innings with the ambition of becoming cluding National Honors Society, Beta Club, National Art Honors Society, Key legendary. We understand others, and Club, Yearbook and Teacher Cadet. we respect. People of the Valley are defi- She also received the Teaching Fellows Award. She works at BI-LO as a cashier nitely different – we are stronger. Our and volunteers for the American Heart community holds us up like a backbone Association in her free time. She is a for our student body. Valley is what filled proud parent of Leo the hedgehog, and loves to create art in all forms. Williams-Brice Stadium for the football championship. Valley is what brings former students back as teachers. Valley is what allows us to endure through all that comes our way. We understand what it is like to be valley. Others simply cannot. I mean, “They hate us ‘cause they ain’t us.” Yet, we remain Valley strong. Our strength is not measured by the trucks that we drive or the amount of camo that some of us wear. No, this strength is measured by where we go and what we do from here. Our families and teachers have showed us the way, but now it is our turn. Let Valley be your compass – try to understand, be kind, work hard, and always strive to be unapologetically yourself. Let no man or woman make you feel inferior. You are Valley; we are Valley. So, class of 2017, wear your strength. Go wherever your heart goes. Do what you desire. Pursue your passions. You will always be Mustangs, the free, pioneer horses that blaze their own trails. Good luck in all that you do, and stay VALLEY STRONG.”
CALENDAR
Midland Valley Public Library
and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA CONTINUED from 2 9 Hillside Road, Langley programs are prohibited Hours are Mondays from from discriminating based ZUMBA 1 to 6 p.m., Tuesdays from on race, color, national Check out the Zumba Party 2 to 6 p.m., Wednesdays origin, sex, disability, age, on Tuesdays from 5 to 6 from 1 to 6 p.m. and or reprisal or retaliation p.m. with instructor Becky Thursdays from 1 to 6 p.m. for prior civil rights Geeting. This class is for Call 803-593-7379. activity in any program any level of participation or activity conducted or and provides a nonfunded by USDA. intimidating opportunity Megiddo Dream Persons with disabilities for new exercisers. Come Station who require alternative join the fun and enjoy Sign up for Megiddo means of communication group fitness with less Dream Station Work for program information impact. for Success Program by (e.g. Braille, large print, calling 803-392-7044 or RESISTANCE BAND audiotape, American dropping by 103 Canal St., Sign Language, etc.), TRAINING Graniteville. More than 300 should contact the Agency Training is held on Mondays and Wednesdays people have successfully (State or local) where from 6 to 6:30 p.m. It’s only returned to the workforce they applied for benefits. 30 minutes – short on time after completing our Individuals who are deaf, 8-week program. but long on results. Bring hard of hearing or have your mat, towel and water; speech disabilities may we provide the bands. contact USDA through Our Lady of the Instructor Joan Beam the Federal Relay Service Valley Catholic will demonstrate exercise at (800) 877-8339. Center with concentration on Additionally, program tightening and toning the information may be made • The Food Pantry is open core muscles. available in languages Monday, Wednesday other than English. and Friday from 10 to TENNIS CLINICS To file a program 11:45 a.m. for emergency Clinics are held for ages 5 assistance by appointment complaint of and up on Saturdays from only. Call 803-593-2623 to discrimination, complete 9 to 11 a.m. with Gabrielle the USDA Program schedule. Morgan as the instructor. Discrimination Complaint • The Benefit Bank is Cost is $10 for members Form, (AD-3027) available by appointment and an additional fee of $3 found online at: http:// only; call Jackie Cobb at for non-members. Bring www.ascr.usda.gov/ 803-617-9532. water bottle and racquet. complaint_filing_cust. • ACOA Senior Program Learn the basic rules of play, - Monday- Friday 9:00am- html, and at any USDA stroke instruction, drills and 12:00pm office, or write a letter games. addressed to USDA and • GED- Tuesday and provide in the letter all of Thursday 4:30pm-8:00pm Midland Valley the information requested Alcoholic Anonymous: in the form. To request Monday & Wednesday & Area Chamber of a copy of the complaint 2nd Saturday 8:00 pm Commerce form, call (866) 632-9992. Meetings are the second Submit your completed In accordance with Wednesday of each form or letter to USDA by: Federal civil rights law month at noon. For more (1) mail: U.S. Department and U.S. Department information, call 803-645of Agriculture, Office of of Agriculture (USDA) 9720. the Assistant Secretary civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, See Calendar, Page 6
4 • Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017
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
Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017 • 5
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Is your child ready for school? BY SHARON L. RICKS You have the school supply list in one hand and your wallet in the other, and you’re pressing your way through those narrow aisles searching for #2 pencils, ruled index cards, and three-ring binders. The deals are unbelievable, and it’s hard to contain your excitement as you grab those 10-cent packs of notebook paper, those 25-cent crayons, and other must-haves for your student’s backpack. The supplies get you ready for school, but do they get your child ready for school too? The next 180 days of school in Aiken County will be some of the most challenging days your child will ever face, and you are willing to do whatever it takes to make sure they’re ready. But the truth is that if they’re going to thrive, they’ll need more than paper, pens, and calculators. There are some things you can’t put in a backpack, but don’t let that stop you. These three things are essential to your child’s success, so make sure they have all three from day one. Family Involvement – No matter what your child’s age, family involvement will push them to the head of the class. Studies show that kindergarteners score higher on literacy-related tasks when mothers use complex sentences in their everyday conversations. Kids in kindergarten to grade 3 have better work habits when parents participate in school activities. And adolescents are most likely to graduate high school and attend college when their parents understand how to prepare them for college and are engaged in the college application process. So, make sure your family is involved. Read to your preschoolers and teach them to write words. Explain homework assignments to your elementary-age kids. Monitor your high school student’s academic and social activities. Your kids will reap the results of better classroom performance, be more likely to participate in class, monitor their own work, and seek help from their teachers. They’ll also be more likely to have social competence and academic growth. Student Initiative – Does your child begin tasks energetically and with determination, or does she wait until the last minute to get started? Does he take on challenges and persevere, or does he become easily discouraged when faced with barriers? Training your child to be proactive starts with you. Be their first role model. Show them how to begin a
new project or tackle a big problem a little bit at a time. Let them see you ask for help when you are struggling, and soon they’ll learn how to take ownership and responsibility for their activities. Studies show that students who take initiative will master their schoolwork and capitalize on opportunities that others ignore. Positive Social Interactions – Whether they’re on the school bus, on the playground, or in the cafeteria, you want your child to have positive interactions with others. Teach your kid friendship-making skills like establishing eye contact, introducing themselves, sharing and taking turns, and sticking up for themselves. Take one skill at a time and practice it. Kids with friendship-making skills are less likely to be bullied and excluded and are more content with life. If your child is bullied at school, they will need support. Make sure they know that it’s not their fault, offer them suggestions for handling specific situations, and communicate with school personnel who have the ability to stop bullying on the spot, intervene immediately, and make sure everyone is safe. Now you’re ready to pack that backpack. Load it with pencils, paper, and notebooks,
MCC PHOTOS
and send your children to school with the confidence of knowing that they are supported by their family, that they have the power to face challenges and overcome obstacles, and that they have the ability to make friends and to stay safe. Now, give
them a hug and send them out the door! Sharon L. Ricks, MA, is the regional health administrator for Region IV, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
6 • Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Justin Bell has been promoted to executive chef at Reserve Club SUBMITTED ARTICLE Chef Justin Bell has been named Executive Chef of the exclusive Reserve Club at Aiken’s Woodside Plantation, the culmination of a career marked by significant challenges. From a young age, Bell experienced the qualms of instability with his father’s irregular involvement in his life. Bell and his mother lived with his grandparents who served as his strongholds and motivators even encouraging him to help out in the kitchen at the age of 4. Bell’s devotion to his family was clear when straight out of high school he turned down a full scholarship to the University of Georgia to stay home and help take care of his ailing grandmother; little did he know she would pass away a few days later. Bell contacted UGA about changing his decision, but it was too late; the offer was off the table and he had to come up with a new plan. Bell went on to Augusta University where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration while working at the North Augusta Country Club. Bell thought this time his plan was a winner until, shortly thereafter, the NACC’s new owner shut the doors and he was out of a job. Then, just two weeks later, Bell’s home caught fire. Now jobless and homeless, with his bearings off course once again, Bell had to decide what to do next. His mother heard about Helms College’s
culinary program and gave Bell the application she picked up during a visit to the campus. He thought it would be the right change in direction and decided to give it a shot. Helms College, operated by Goodwill Industries of Middle Georgia and the CSRA, provided just what Bell needed to bring order from chaos and allow him to go back to what he knew when he helped his mother and grandmother in the kitchen. The hands-on training Bell received at Helms College provided a quick and easyto-remember recipe for his success in the culinary field, turning an internship with the Augusta Country Club into a permanent position after only two weeks. Bell soon found his niche in the kitchen at ACC. “I fill in where needed,” he said “I’m kind of the chef ’s go-to…it challenges me and I like it.” After graduating from Helms in December 2013, Bell said, “My life now is consistent and stable.” After a stint as the head of culinary services at the Kroc Center in Augusta, Bell became sous chef at the exclusive Reserve Club at Woodside Plantation in Aiken. He recently was promoted to Executive Chef at the prestigious facility less than three years after completing his culinary education. Bell encourages those down on their luck and without direction, “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. You need to be persistent and constantly pursue opportunities.”
CALENDAR CONTINUED from 2 for Civil Rights,1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
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 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. For more information, contact Rosealind Morse at rosegoes@aol.com.
Aiken County Career and Technology Center
The center will be having registration on Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. We are still accepting applications for some career programs. Call 803-593-7300 for details. 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.
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017 • 7
Leavelle McCampbell Alumni Association awards scholarships to four students
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Leavelle McCampbell School Alumni Association Board Members attended the Midland Valley High School Senior Awards Day Program on Thursday, May 18th. President Pat Bates presented LMSAA Scholarships to Kara Blackwell, Lauren Brown, Evan Morris And Ethan Pifer, Leavelle McCampbell Middle School alumni. Kara, Lauren and Evan each received $1000 scholarships funded by LMSAA, and Ethan received a $500 scholarship presented in honor of Julian and Verna Proctor, GHS Class of 1944. This scholarship was endowed by their children, Steve and Monica Proctor and Sandra and Robert Jones. These scholarships will be used toward future educational expenses. LMSAA members make this possible through annual membership dues and participation in Alumni Association supported activities. Membership is open to GHS/Leavelle McCampbell School alumni, family, and friends of alumni. Tax deductible dues are $15 a person each year, and 100 percent of the dues is used to support LMMS, its students and the Graniteville community. Checks are payable to LMSAA and should be mailed to Leavelle McCampbell School Alumni Association, PO Box 201, Graniteville, SC 29829. For more information on LMSAA and membership, visit our Facebook page, GHS CENTRAL/LMSAA or contact Beverly Brown Wood at bevbrownwood@hotmail.com or (803) 645-1012. From left are Kara Blackwell,Ethan Pifer, Pat Bates, LMSAA President Pat Bates, Evan Morris and Lauren Brown.
8 • Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
When your best is not good enough BY MEL MINITOR
The evening of Dec. 8, 2014, found my brother, David, and I signing a contract to buy the ole Warrenville Supermarket. It had a rich history in the community and the store was open when my brother and I were children and we remember going shopping there with our parents. Some years later the store was sold to Mr. Henry Gurley and he then passed it down to his sons. They in-turn sold the store to a family who did not understand Americans and the foods we eat. After a few failures by various owners, the store was purchased by my brother and I. We had little knowledge of the previous owners and their failures. In the past, the store had become known for the fowl odor and many local people refused to come in to shop. Once the store was purchased, we immediately started to clean. We found the drains were filled from years of neglect and began to clean drains were immediately cleaned and pressure washed. All equipment was scrubbed down to bring back the ole store of yesteryear. The DHEC inspector said the store was one of the cleanest in the Aiken market. We were initially supposed to have an investor but he backed out after seeing the poor condition of the store. For two years and eight months we struggled month to month and week to week to keep the doors open. We paid our employees but did not take
out a paycheck ourselves. We were told by several banks that our problem was under capitalization and we were well aware of that. The banks were not interested in making loans on a business with old equipment. That limited our purchasing power and ability to properly advertise the business. We prayed the local people would come back and support a local tradition but heard, over and over again, locals would not come in because the store had previously smelled bad. Even after being in the store for 2 years and having it clean as a whistle, we still heard negative comments from people in the community regarding the condition of the store under the management of the previ-
ous owners. Thankfully, not everyone felt that way and some of the locals came back. The market became known for it meats. We were selling upwards of 3 tons per week. Before closing Minitor Market, we were supplying meat to 12 restaurants, several civic groups, a few churches in the area and we also supplied meats to 3 different school athletic programs. Minitor Market became known for local favorites. The market sold more Maurice’s & Shealy’s Bar-B-Que, Hash and sauces than any other store that marketed their products. Other local favorites like Don’s Seasoning Delight, Lee’s 421 Seasoning, Lee’s Screaming Cock Sauce and Dirt Road Dust drew customers from
around the CSRA. One would think that after selling three tons of meat a week, a store would be making money. That was not the case what with equipment failures and constant repairs; the money we were rolling over soon went down the money pit. We invested our retirement and life’s savings believing that the community would come back and they could support the store which was not the case. It is sad to say, but I do not believe that piece of history can be brought back without a total replacement of facility and equipment. One thing that hurts the most, is to know the meats that were being donated to Mt. Salem Ministry is gone. We hated to call Hope Ministries and ask them pick up the drop-off basket. It was at the front where we put products and our customers would drop can goods and other products to help the needy. We are sad that we are being forced to shut down a community tradition that has served the area for over fifty years. We are praying an investor will join us so we can open a smaller market with new equipment and be able to serve our area. I would ask the community to support local owned businesses. Please spend your money with them because they provide local jobs and their money stays in the community. You can put your heart and savings into a business…. but sometimes your best is not good enough.”
For information on how you can sponsor the GVW Report, or to suggest story ideas, contact Anne Fulcher at ernieace2@yahoo.com or call at 803-979-4476
David & Mel Minitor
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017 • 9
School supply giveaway Aiken County Parks, Recreation and Tourism will be hosting a School Supply Giveaway on Saturday, August 12th at 10:00 a.m.! School supplies and light refreshments will be available while supplies last. Children will also be able to swim from 10-2, at no cost. This event is sponsored in conjunction with Aiken County Parks, Recreation and Tourism, Serenity Charity Club, Inc., Horse Creek Masonic Lodge, and Valley Fair
Baptist Church. If anyone is interested in sponsoring a backpack or school supplies, please contact us at the Recreation Center – 803-663-6142. The giveaway will be held at the Aiken County Recreation Center, located at 917 Jefferson Davis Highway (US 1) in Graniteville. For more information or to donate, call Tandra Cooks at (803) 663-6142.
10 • Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Leavelle McCampbell Middle School Ribbon Cutting August 5, 2017
PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE COURTESY OF CLEVE KOON
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017 • 11
Leavelle McCampbell Middle School Ribbon Cutting
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SALLY JENNINGS
12 • Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017
Why school? “The philosophy of the school room in one gen- let every one seriously set himself by prayer in eration will be the philosophy of government in secret to seek it of Him (Prov. 2,3). Every one shall so exercise himself in reading the Scripthe next.” – Abraham Lincoln tures twice a day that he shall be ready to give “Do not be conformed to this world, but be such an account of his proficiency therein.” transformed by the renewal of your mind, that The second college established in America by testing you may discern what is the will of was William and Mary, founded in 1693. In God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” the 1758 volume, The Charter, Transfer and Statutes of the College of William and Mary – Bible in Virginia, the purpose for its founding was Our children head back to school this month. explained: We parents are of course concerned about the “There are three things which the founders of instruction they will be receiving, both in this college proposed to themselves, to which terms of its quality and its content. Our first all its statutes should be directed. The first is concern for our children should be the philoso- that the youth of Virginia should be well eduphy of education in the school they are attend- cated to learning and good morals. The secing, i.e. for what purpose do they go to school? ond is that the churches of America, especially Dr. Martin Luther King said the following Virginia, should be supplied with good minisabout education: “The function of education, ters after the doctrine and government of the therefore, is to teach one to think intensively Church of England, and that the college should and to think critically. But education which be a constant seminary for this purpose. The stops with efficiency may prove the greatest third is that the Indians of America should be menace to society. The most dangerous crimi- instructed in the Christian religion, and that nal may be the man gifted with reason, but some of the Indian youth that are well behaved and well inclined, being first well prepared in with no morals.” It has been said that he who controls the the Divinity School, may be sent out to preach schools controls the world. Dr. Dave Miller, the gospel to their countrymen in their own Executive Director of Apologetics Press, sug- tongue.” Yale, the third college established in America, gests that “the present period of American history surely will be shown to be a tragic time Yale, was founded in 1701 and had as its stated for education. Sinister forces essentially have purpose to be a school “wherein Youth may hijacked American schools in order to make be instructed in the Arts and Sciences [and] converts to their immoral, anti-Christian ide- through the blessing of Almighty God may be ologies.” This is very much in contrast with fitted for Publick employment both in Church the stated intentions of those who founded the and Civil State” And so it goes: Princeton, Dartmouth, etc. schools in America. The first institution of higher education in Princeton’s motto is Dei Sub Numine Viget, the Colonies was Harvard College, founded meaning “Under God’s Power She Flourishes.” in 1636. The 1636 rules of Harvard included Physician and signer of the Declaration of Independence, Dr. Benjamin Rush, asserted: “[T] the following declaration: “Let every student be plainly instructed and he only foundation for a useful education in a earnestly pressed to consider well the main end republic is to be laid in religion. Without this of his life and studies is to know God and Je- there can be no virtue, and without virtue there sus Christ which is eternal life (John 17.3) and can be no liberty, and liberty is the object and therefore to lay Christ in the bottom as the only life of all republican governments.” The responsibility for the education of a foundation of all sound knowledge and learning. And seeing the Lord only giveth wisdom, child lies first of all in the hands of the par-
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
ents. Somewhere along the line we parents have to a large extent abdicated that responsibility. Perhaps it’s because at least 50% of our families are dealing with marital issues, which have a negative effect on our children and our ability to care for their welfare. Parents can have a significant impact on their local schools if they are willing to be involved. If we parents don’t stay plugged into the schools, special interest groups will, and we may not agree with some of their educational philosophies.
So as our children head back to school, whether its homeschooling, private schools, or the public schools, our parental involvement is key to being aware and hopefully impacting the reasons why our children are in school. The Family and Marriage Coalition of Aiken, Inc. (FAMCO) provides resources for you to succeed in your marriage and families. Roger Rollins, Executive Director, FAMCO, 803-6404689, rogerrollins@aikenfamco.com, www.aikenfamco.com.
COME HELP US CELEBRATE OUR FIRST ANNIVERSARY! Saturday, September 30, 2017 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 50 Canal St., Graniteville For more information, call 803-392-7022
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Saturday, Aug, 12, 2017 • 13
Apple Volunteers Wanted Apple Volunteers Wanted The McGrath Computer Learning Center has broadened its curriculum to The McGrathApple Computer technology. Learning Center has broadened its curriculum to some Apple computers. As a result, include We now have we have need We for who have good knowledge of Apple technology include Apple a technology. now volunteers have some Apple computers. As a result, Master Your Computer, Tablet and Phone and can help with who setting up and the Apple computers. McGrath we have a need for volunteers have good knowledge of maintaining Apple technology provides a much needed service to our community. If you would like to use and can help with setting up and maintaining the Apple computers. McGrath your skills to help the McGrath Computer Learning Center become Aiken’s provides a much needed service toof our community. If youcomputer would like to use technology and to help the McGrath premier instructor personal your skills to help the McGrath Computer contact Learning Centerus. become Aiken’s business thrive, please
OPEN HOUSE and REGISTRATION
premier instructor of personal computer technology and to help the McGrath business thrive, please contact us.
For Fall Session
Email: mcgrathclc@gmail.com Friday, September 8, 2017 Telephone: Abby Grizzle at (803) 10:00641-3741 am – 2:00 pm
Email: mcgrathclc@gmail.com Our volunteers receive: Telephone: Abby Grizzle at (803) 641-3741 Formal/informal training and a mentor Flexible work hours Ability to work from home Free class tuition (space available) Our volunteers receive:
Formal/informal training and a mentor Flexible work hours Ability to work from home Free class tuition (space available)
McGrath Computer Learning Center University of South Carolina – Aiken (Between the tennis courts and softball field) See our facilities. Meet our instructors. Hear about our new Apple courses.
McGrath Computer Learning Center is a non-profit, all volunteer organization.
Full course description and registration details are available on our website:
mcgrathclc.com
Call Abby Grizzle at 803-641-3741 with course or schedule questions.
McGrath Computer Learning Center is a non-profit, all volunteer organization.
14 • Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Forward Aiken County with Andrew Siders
Andrew Siders
My name is Andrew Siders and I am asking for your vote in the primary on Aug. 22 to continue as the Chairman of Aiken County Council. Our campaign slogan is Forward Aiken County. As a US Marine Corps veteran (like my father before me), I consider this a Charge Order for ALL of Aiken County – that everything we think, say, do and vote on as a County Council is to move Aiken County forward. I’m a native of Aiken County. I have been married for 27 years to my wife, who is an Aiken County school teacher and we have three children. My parents and my in-laws live in Aiken County and I have aunts and uncles, cousins and a 97 year-old grandmother that live in Aiken County. I am fully committed to the best possible quality of life for my family and for yours, too. I have worked at the Savannah River Site, have been a mortgage banker and commercial lender and now I own a small business – an insurance agency where I help protect all the assets that people work so hard for. Jobs are important and I want to bring more jobs to the Valley. I agree with and have worked toward what my good friend and mentor, Ronnie Young has said, “We must take care of our existing businesses and industry that have already made significant investments and continue to expand the business climate in Aiken County. With these investments, more and more opportunities will
be available for our citizens which, in turn, enhances the quality of life.” County Council, with Ronnie as Chair, has worked to bring business to Aiken County and I will continue that work. The Chairman is the face of economic development, working with people from all walks of life in both small business and large corporations. I have dealt with potential industry and potential employers moving to the area and have built relationships and brought people together. This will entice employers to our area, bringing jobs and improving the quality of life. I am in my second term on County Council and my voting record stands: I support law enforcement, fire and EMS. I support veterans. I support the hard-working Aiken County employees. I support economic development. I support working within the budget without raising taxes. And I am an advocate for improving the quality of life for ALL residents of Aiken County. I have past and present work experiences and a passion for the County I call home. Plus, I have the leadership skills from the best teacher in the world – our nation’s military. I have the vision, the desire and the knowledge to move the Valley and all of Aiken forward in the right direction. I ask for your prayer and I ask for your vote on Aug. 22 so that together we can Forward Aiken County.
Holistic Wellness Fair
FAIR
Come spend the day with holistic wellness providers from Aiken, North Augusta, and Augusta area. Meet energy medicine/Reiki practitioners, chiropractors, and nutritional consultants. Buy pendulums, essential oils, hand-crafted jewelry, dream catchers, crystals, gemstones, and more. Receive chair massages and oracle readings. Talk with holistic financial planners and insurance agents. Enjoy food tastings or buy a boxed lunch. Something for everyone. More information can be found at www.facebook.com/HolisticWellnessFair.
Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017• 15
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
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.
Mt. Salem Ministries
The Valley Alliance
The Midland Valley Public Library hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday from 1 to 6 p.m. and Tuesday from 2 to 6 p.mw.
803-646-3847 Outreach Mission Men’s Homeless Shelter Registration from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Sunday Aiken Barnwell Mental Health Center 2121 Augusta Road, Gloverville, SC (Hwy 1135 Gregg Hwy., Aiken, SC 29801 421) 803-641-7700 “His Table” Soup Kitchen, Monday through Friday Aiken County Veterans Affairs Office “Free lunch” from noon to 2 p.m. Dwight Bradham, Director 3850 Augusta Road, Bath, SC (Hwy 421) 1930 University Parkway, Suite 2305 All are welcome! Aiken, SC 29801 Phone Number: Rural Health Services, Inc. (803) 642-1545 803-380-7000 Email Address: With offices in Aiken, Clearwater and New Dbradham@aikencountysc.gov Ellenton Seeing patients with and without insurance. Aiken Regional Medical Center Adult Medicine, Pediatric Medicine, 803-641-5000 Behavioral Health, 302 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801 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
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.
16 • Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Puppies abandoned in box recover and get adopted to loving homes SUBMITTED ARTICLE
Volunteers and staff members had to scramble when seven puppies, barely over a week old, were left at the front door of the shelter in a box during the night. It was an unseasonably cold Spring evening, and as soon as the staff and volunteers found the pups there in the morning, they went to work warming the pups and bottle feeding them. FOTAS Programs Coordinator Kathy Jacobs took three puppies home to foster, and Volunteers Laura Burmeister and Amber Carter each took home a pair to bottle feed and nurture. Despite being left to fend for themselves
against the elements, the puppies proved to be amazingly strong, healthy and happy. All seven were adopted and are doing great. Amber adopted her two fosters and Kathy ended up fostering the remaining five, who were
snatched up as soon as they graduated to the Shelter’s adoption floor. “Our volunteers answered the call to save animals who, through no fault of their own, were put in a dangerous situation and had nowhere to call
home,” said FOTAS President Jennifer Miller. “If these folks had not taken care of these pups, they would never have survived. But they saved all of them – and now these dogs are living good lives in loving homes.”
How healthy are your eyes?
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
At left: A FOTAS volunteer bottlefeeds one of the found puppies. Above: Puppy pile: Seven puppies were abandoned and left at the shelter.
For many people eyeglasses are not available through their insurance or out of reach for their budget. Christ Central Graniteville offers a low-cost eye clinic through the generosity of Dr. Bud Antley from Saluda. Once a month he donates his time to see qualifying patients at the Hope Center. The cost to the patient is $25 or 2 hours of community service to Christ Central Graniteville for those with no insurance and qualifying income. The next clinic is Wednesday, Aug. 23 from 1 to 4 p.m. With the help of volunteers from the Lions Club and Christ Central, people are fitted for glasses at a reasonable price. Call the Hope Center at 803-393-4575 to see if you meet the guidelines for this valuable service. Christ Central Ministries Hope Center 3 Hickman Street Graniteville, SC 29829 803-393-4575
Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017 • 17
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Aiken Technical College launches new strategic plan Aiken Technical College has launched a new strategic plan to help guide it to its 50th anniversary in 2022. “We are excited about this new strategic plan. The College has accomplished many great things over the years, and this plan builds onto those successes to take the College to the next level,” said Dr. Forest E. Mahan, ATC President. The College contracted with Dr. Anthony Robinson of Robinson Management Consulting to lead the institution through the strategic planning process and to engage ATC administration,
employees, students, partners and community members in the development of the plan. Their input was then used to help guide the direction of the strategic plan and identify strengths, areas of improvement, and new opportunities. One of the most notable changes is the College’s new vision which states the College “seeks to be the first choice for higher education in the region.” “I want to change the perception of what it means to go to college,” said Mahan. “Aiken Technical College has a lot to offer residents and business and industry
in our area. When we say ‘first choice’, we want people to think of us as a place to start the journey toward their goals—whether that is to gain employable skills to go into the workforce or build the foundation for a bachelor’s degree.” Other highlights from the plan:
Mission:
• Aiken Technical College is a public open-door, twoyear, comprehensive institution of higher education established to provide citizens of greater Aiken County opportunities for educational
• Integrity: Exemplified by honesty, accountability and transparency
community and industry partners to develop and Values: empower students through • Collaboration: Exempliadditional educational opStrategic Goals: fied in community-centered portunities. • I. Provide transformative, relationships and partner• IV. Cultivate an engaging ships enriching and engaging aca- environment of excellence to demic programs and student attract, retain and develop a • Commitment: Exemplified in students, businesses experiences to serve the edu- diverse campus of students, cational and workforce devel- staff, faculty and administraand community opment needs of our students tors. • Diversity: Exemplified • V. Expand organizational in inclusiveness, respect and and the region. • II. Position the College as funding through regional compassion the first choice for education support, student enrollment, • Excellence: Exemplified and workforce development and grants to provide innovain teaching, learning, engagement and development tive learning opportunities through effective com• Innovation: Exemplified munication, promotion and for students. branding. in new approaches, riskFor a complete outline of taking, flexibility, change and • III. Create strategic colthe college’s strategic plan, laborations with academic, leadership visit www.atc.edu. and workforce development.
The GVW Report wants to wish all students a good 2017-18 school year! Your Future is Within Reach! Fall classes start Monday, August 21! • Gain employable skills • Complete the first two years towards a bachelor’s degree • Earn college credit while in high school through the Early Start: Dual Enrollment program • Learn from experienced and knowledgeable instructors
• Study in state-of-the-art facilities • Afforable tuition • S.C. Lottery Tuition Assistance for eligible S.C. residents • 2017 Military Friendly College • 2017 Best Vets Award
www.ATC.edu
Aiken Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age.
18 • Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
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Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017 • 19
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Fit 4 School
The seventh annual Fit 4 School, presented by the Chandler Law Firm, was held on Saturday, August 5, at the Aiken County YMCA. Thousands of people came out with their children to get prepped for the upcoming school year. Children were able to get free school supplies, have fun on a bounce house and Rolling Video Games bus, and be entertained by Marvel superheroes, a magician, and dancers from the Aiken Civic Ballet. Not only were there free school supplies available, but medical professionals from the area offered free health screenings, including: Aiken Professional Association, Aiken Ophthalmology, Rural Health Services, Inc. and Hearing Associates of SC. The Aiken School of Cosmetology and Barbering provided free haircuts and the Aiken County Sheriff’s Department offered free ID kits for children, as well.
20 • Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Are immunizations on your child’s back-to-school checklist? We provide inpatient and outpatient services for infants, children and adolescents. In addition to immunizations and sports physicals, your child can get routine health exams and treatment when they are sick. We also provide Spanish-speaking staff. Sports physicals are available without an appointment, Monday – Friday between 3:45 pm and 4:15 pm. Spaces are limited. The cost is $25.
If an alternate time is needed, please call 803-641-KIDS (5437).
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