Saturday, January 9, 2016
Vol. 2, No. 1
A Time for New Beginnings by Anne Fulcher Happy New Year! I just can’t believe that an entire year has passed. I have found that the older I get, the faster the years go by and with an upcoming birthday, in a few short weeks, I would be happy for it to slow down just a little. As 2015 rapidly comes to a close and 2016 opens the door for us to enter, let’s take some time to reflect on the past twelve months. In January, we memorialized the ten year anniversary of the tragic train wreck of 2005. I think we can honestly say that event changed our lives more than anything we have ever been through. Finally, the people of the GVW area can now see new beginnings for their community. Recleim opened in the beginning of 2015 bringing jobs and reuse of the old mills. Along with Recleim came the Horse Creek Trust under the leadership of Turner Simkins. The Horse Creek Trust has made one of the MOST visible changes in the restoration of Hickman Hall. These changes bring renewed faith that Graniteville and their neighboring communities are not long forgotten as though it seemed. The Red Shed reopened under the proprietorship of the original owner, Gennie Gunter, and Fire Chief Napier got that new fire station located right next door to the old one. Each and every day, a person can see the visible changes of a new beginning. There are signs of DHEC cleanup at
several of the properties around town and it gives life and hope back where a future seemed so dismal. The Hope Center received a grant from the Aiken
Rotary to begin the Community Garden in partnership with the Graniteville Brownfield Project. And then, there is this special publication called the GVW
Report. We never knew how well it would be received but it has taken off like wildfire. The first edition was in June 2015 as a 12 page monthly publication with four thousand printed by and inserted into the Aiken Standard. By August, the paper increased to 16 pages and in November printed numbers grew to 7000. GRACE Study office manager, Edie Corley-Stone planted the seed for the GVW Report at the Graniteville Brownfield Project’s first workshop by saying people would love to have a newspaper that would let them know what was going on in their tow 2016 will only get better. With people seeing the changes beginning to happen they have faith and hope for the GVW towns that they call home. There are so many more great things in the works as I write and I can only tell you that it’s going to be a new beginning for one and all. Do you love this area where you work and live? If you do get involved because it is pertinent that YOU be involved in rebuilding this wonderful community. There are more classes on healthy living with the Hope Center and the Graniteville Brownfield Project, the Horse Creek Trust has already had their first of many concerts and this is just the beginning of many “New Beginnings.” 2016 will be the best year yet! If you would like to be a part of this, please feel free to contact me and I will share with you the many projects that are upcoming.
2 • Saturday, January 9, 2016
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
December Community Calendar Christ Central Graniteville (Hope Center) • Starting on Tuesday, January 5, at 7:00 p.m. the Turning the Pages Ministry will begin conducting Community Bible Studies at Hope Center - Christ Central Graniteville. Classes will continue on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month. All are welcome. For additional information, please contact Dr. Gollie Walkerat 803 507-7920. • Friday, January 15, In Pursuit of a Deeper Prayer Life with Pastor A. Granillo, Monday – Thursday, January 25-28, 9 a.m. – 12:10 p.m. and Monday – Thursday, February 1-4, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Call 803-393-4575 for more information. • F.I.T. 1 (Food Industry Training Class). This two-week course is to prepare for “front of the house” food industry including: Money Management, Conflict Resolution, Resume Writing, Interviewing Skills, Work Place Etiquette and ServSafe Certification. Monday – Thursday, January 2528, 9:00am-12:10p, and Monday – Thursday, Gebruary 1-4. 0:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. • Small motor repair- Jan 19 at 9:00 am. Call the Hope Center for more information at 803-393-4575. • Monday, January 25, 6:30 p.m., Ten Steps to Better Eating with Dr. Warren Karp. All questions and reservations can be made by calling the Hope Center at 803-393-4575. • Friday, January 15, In Pursuit of a Deeper Prayer Life with Pastor A. Granillo • Trinity Academy Preschool for 3 and 4 year olds meets Mondays and Fridays from 8:30 - 12:00 at the 6 Hickman Street location. Call Kenia Alvarez at 803-215-8361 (Spanish speaking) or Ann Castro at 803-270-5409 for more information. • After School Mentoring is held at Hope Center, 3 Hickman St. on Tuesday and Thursdays from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Each child (ages 5-12) is matched with a volunteer mentor for friendship and tutoring. You may contact Donna Paschal, Director, at 803-645-8397. Currently there is a waiting list. • Volunteers all needed for both of these youth programs. If you are interested in helping, please contact Donelle West, Volunteer Coordinator, at 803-270-6305.
• LINE DANCE Rock&Roll, Country & Beach Music Line dancing classes with instructor Cassie Barnhill are taught on Mondays from 7:00 - 8:30 P.M. bost is $5.00 per class. For more information call the park at 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 1/2 mile walking track. For more information, please call the park at 663-7552. • KARATE Karate classes are taught by Brian Randall are are held on Tuesday nights from 6:30-8:00 p.m. Classes are for ages 5 and older with instruction in Tae Kwon Do and Kenpo. Cost is $15.00 per month. • “FREE” BLOOD PRESSURE TESTING Blood Pressure Testing is offered at Gregg Park Civic Center. This service is “Free of Charge” and is performed by certified nurse, Jeanne Townes. This service is provided the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month from 4:00-6:00 p.m. • GYMNASTICS Gymnastic classes are now being held at Gregg Park Civic Center. Registration fee is $10.00 and cost of instruction is $30.00 per month. Instructor Rhonda Whitley will teach Gymnastics for children ages 4 & up on Mondays from 6:00-7:00 p.m. For more information, please call the park at 663-7552 “UNLIMITED” Exercise Classes per Month $10/Month for Pass holders, $15/Month for Non-Pass holders • Monday and Wednesday Cardio/Weight Class 5:00-6:00 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
Gregg Park Civic Center www.greggparkonline.com
• Tuesday Zumba 5:00 - 6:00 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!
• 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 9:00-10:00 a.m. For more information, please call the park at 663-7552. FREE OF CHARGE!
• Mondays Resistance Band Training 6:00 - 6:30 p.m. & Wednesdays 6:00 - 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.
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 10am -12pm. Call Jackie Cobbs for an appointment 803-617-9532. 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 Techincal College Aiken Regional Hospital
Published by the Aiken Standard 326 Rutland Dr, Aiken, SC 29801
Saturday, January 9, 2016 • 3
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville GED classes: Tuesday & Thursday 5:30 p.m. Classes are free. AA Group : Monday, Wednesday 8:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. Basic Computer Class: call Sr. Dorothy 803-507-7715 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 Mon., Wed., & Friday), 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 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. Marriage Celebration, February 6, 2016, Newberry Hall in Aiken. Cleve (WAFJ) and Barbara Walker will be sharing. Tickets are available from any FAMCO Board member or by calling 803-640-4689 The Valley Alliance Wednesday, December 16, 2015 from 11:30 a.m .– 12:30 p.m., Langley Pentecostal Holiness Church, Rte. 1, Langley, SC 29834 For more information, please contact Rosealind Morse at rosegoes@aol.com Walgreens, Clearwater, SC Walgreens also offers free blood pressure checks all day during pharmacy operating hours (9 a.m - 9 p.m. M-F, Sat 9-6, and Sun 10-6). No appointment necessary. We will have a van from GRU onsite on Dec 9th from 11a.m - 2p.m. offering free HIV testing. No appointment necessary and completely confidential and private. This is exclusive to this location.
To have your organization’s events posted in the GVW Report Community Calendar, please email Anne Fulcher at ernieace2@yahoo.com or call at 803-979-4476
Midland Valley players make 2015 All-Aiken Standard football honors First Team Offense
Jaquan McCorkle, LB Midland Valley • 94 tackles, 5 sacks, 3 INTs
Daniel Carr, QB Midland Valley • 140-256, 1,774 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, 704 rushing yards, 11 touchdowns
Skylar Brown, DB Midland Valley • 73 tackles, 4 INTs
Second Team
Dre’Kwon Carr, RB Midland Valley • 339 carries for 2,089 yards, 17 touchdowns
• Jashon Felder, OL • Skyler Curry, DL • Kyle DeHayes, LB • Thomas McCord, K
First Team Defense Michael Baynham, DL Midland Valley • 120 tackles, 6 sacks
Honorable Mention • Ethan Ennis, WR
Xavier Leaphart, LB Midland Valley • 220 tackles, 3 sacks, 2 INTs
Staff photo Dre’Kwon Carr, RB & Daniel Carr, QB for the Midland Valley Mustangs.
SOUTH POINTE 35 MIDLAND VALLEY 0
By ERIC RUSSELL erussell@aikenstandard.com
COLUMBIA — Midland Valley’s first trip to the Class AAA state championship ended on a sour note. The Mustangs (10-5) were shut out by a stout South Pointe (141) defense as the Stallions won 35-0 to win a state title for the second year in a row. Although the loss ended Midland Valley’s nine-game win streak and concluded the best season in program history, it didn’t taint the way Midland Valley head coach Rick Knight felt about his kids. “I’m so proud of my guys; it’s unbelievable,” Knight said after the game. “They’ve done things that nobody else has done at our school in history. They’re Lower State champions, they’re region champions and they won 10 football games.” The Mustangs overcame a lot of adversity throughout the season, surviving a 1-4
Staff photo
start and an injury to quarterback Daniel Carr to win every game they’ve played the last two months. Carr passed for 168 yards in Saturday’s game, but the offense struggled to get things going. For Carr and a large group of the Midland Valley starters it was the last time they’d suit up for the Mustangs football team, but Carr said he and his teammates
Staff photo
would still have moments to remember for a long time despite the outcome “We are the first team to do this,” he said. “It’s good, but we still lost, so of course we’re not satisfied with that part.”
4 • Saturday, January 9, 2016
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
Mt. Salem Ministries; 803-646-3847 Outreach Mission Men’s Homeless Shelter Registration from 4-6pm Monday through Sunday 2121 Augusta Road, Gloverville, SC (Hwy 421) “His Table” Soup Kitchen, Monday through Friday “Free lunch” from 12-2pm 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) FAMCO is a local non-profit 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 803-979-4476 or ernieace2@yahoo.com.
Happy New Year!
from the GVW Report
Anne Fulcher, Editor | Lauren A. Haley, Graphic Designer
Saturday, January 9, 2016 • 5
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Let’s go food shopping, together
Great tasting food can be great for your mind and body, too Warren B. Karp, Ph.D., D.M.D. Professor Emeritus Augusta University Hey, Everyone! I am looking forward to meeting you on January 25th, at 6:30 pm at The Hope Center in Graniteville, SC. My wife, Nancy, who is a physical therapist, will be with me. I’m going to take you on a virtual shopping trip with me. One nice thing about a virtual shopping trip is that it doesn’t cost any money! I wish real shopping were like that. The idea is to show you that healthy food is less expensive, easier to prepare and can taste delicious. Today, there is this rumor that “if it is good for you, it must taste really bad.” That is simply not true. That’s what I want us to chat about. Bring your questions. I like questions. You can actually email me questions before I come, if you want. That way, I know what you want me to talk about when we see each other. So, feel free to email me at: wbkarp@gmail.com Although I will use some slides, honestly, I am not coming to show you slide-after-slide (boring). I am coming to help you answer your own questions about what foods to buy and how to prepare them in easy and delicious ways. I have written an eBook, “Nutrition for Smarties.” This eBook is FREE. You download it, email it to your friends...whatever you want. To download a copy, simply visit this link: https://sites.google.com/site/ wbkarpnutritionforsmarties/
You can find columns I have written for Verge Magazine on this website: https://sites.google.com/ site/drkarpverge/ There are no products being pushed and I received no financial support for writing these columns or the book. Feel free to message me on Facebook, Twitter (WBKarp Twitter) and Pinterest (WBKarp Pinterest). It would be great if you “friended” or “followed” me...that way, you can ask me questions and you can read my answers to other people’s questions. See you soon! Warren www.wbkarp.com
6 • Saturday, January 9, 2016
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
We are in a War “It is fatal to enter any war without the will to win it.” – Douglas MacArthur “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” – Bible (Ephesians 6:10,11) Remember George down the street? He retired in December 2013. His retirement goal was simple and easy to implement – do nothing and enjoy the rest of his life. He died in mid-2014. Then there are Henry and Mary. They live across town. They decided the best way to raise their only child Hank was to let him have his own way with very little guidance and discipline from his parents. Let him make all his own choices. That way he best could achieve his potential. Hank is now in prison. John and Jane signed a contract when they got married. Each was responsible for certain tasks in order to assure their own happiness and contribute to that of the other. Penalty clauses were included. Their marriage lasted a little over a year. The above scenarios are fictitious, or at least the names are. The decisions and lifestyles they represent are all too common, however. Oswald Chambers, a gifted theologian, author, and teacher, suggests the existence of the Law of Antagonism. I quote: “Life without war is impossible either in nature or in grace. The basis of physical, mental, moral, and spiritual life is antagonism.”
To illustrate, Chambers points out that health is the balance between physical life and external nature. We’ve probably all heard that the moment we are born we begin to die. For a while, the process of growth in our body cells exceeds the cell death rate. But not for long. So we do all we can to maintain healthy bodies and delay their decay. Whether or not we like to admit it, morally it is the same, individually and for society in general. Although I have significant concerns about our society, we will confine this discussion to the individual and the union of two individuals in marriage. Again quoting Chambers: “No man is virtuous because he cannot help it; virtue is acquired.” How do we acquire virtue and develop the good character qualities? Let’s consider once again the comparison with our physical bodies. Our muscles grow when we exercise them; the more stress and strain, the more growth. After surgery, the doctors have us up and moving about as soon as possible; we recover faster that way. Pornography is becoming rampant today. It is destroying marriages at an alarming rate. How do you develop the moral character that resists pornography? You do it by coming against it. You turn off the TV. You stay away from the wrong magazines and books. You put filters on your computers. We are bombarded with false messages today. We are told we can lose weight by taking this pill, or wearing that certain piece of clothing. Our moral values are regularly
assaulted by philosophies that say “if it feels good, it must be OK,” and “you can have it [life] the way you want it.” As couples we are told that marriage is just two people living together. A marriage covenant, and for that matter any formal agreement, is unnecessary. And if you actually chose to “get married,” you can dissolve it whenever you feel like it. As we enter this New Year, please consider that death is the result of our choosing to do it our way, rather than follow God’s plan. This is true eternally and daily. Make your decisions recognizing the existence of an
intelligent designer who has a plan for you and your marriage. Resist the temptation to take the easy way out. Learn from a famous psychiatrist who found the truth: “The Road Less Traveled” is difficult but eternally fulfilling. Make those choices that enhance your relationship and your marriage. It’s worth it. 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, 803-640-4689, rogerrollins@aikenfamco.com, www.aikenfamco.com.
Saturday, January 9, 2016 • 7
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Minitor Market
2016: A time for new beginnings
H.G. Wells said: “The past is but the beginning of a beginning.” We must take the lessons from the past and use that as our foundation to build a better future. No one promised it would be easy, and may be scary at times. Life is full of chances and adventures if only we are willing to take the steps and not quit. When I was young (in my early teens) I was working on a lawnmower and was having trouble getting the points adjusted and was so frustrated that I was ready to quit. Leroy Galloway, told me anybody can quit… I responded, I’m not anybody!! From that day forward, I’ve not been afraid of a challenge. At Minitor’s Market we see the New Year as a chance to better serve you. It is our desire to grow into the only source you will need for quality meats and produce!! We are working to build our grocery selection. As we gain more of the communities support, the faster we can grow and provide you with better service and prices. My personal goal in the New Year is to eat a more healthy diet. I invite you to join me in trying new things… in our frozen department we have a good selection of ‘Fresh Frozen’ Veggies. I’ve taken a liking to the Broccoli Florets with Don’s Seasoning. Don’s is low sodium, no MSG and has an excellent flavor. It is good with just a little cheese sprinkled over while hot. It is easy to
STAFF PHOTO BY DEDE BILES
Mel Minitor, left, said Minitor Market of Warrenville is becoming well-known for its meats. He is shown here with his brother, David Minitor, and butcher Bud Snipes. fix. Put in pot and bring to boil, cover and let simmer for 8 minutes. It is then ready to serve. Also, a Sweet Potato with Cinnamon sprinkled on it is really good. I no longer use margarine. After reading a study I found butter is the better choice. I now use butter and a few marshmallows for sweetener. I wrap the potatoes in tin foil and bake in the oven for 30 minutes on each side at 500 degrees. (Note: Cinnamon helps lower your cholesterol and helps opens your arteries.)
I’ve taken a liking to Brussels Sprouts. They are good with Don’s Seasoning Delight, a little butter and a few bacon bits which give it that added southern flavor. They are easy to fix… cover in a pan with water and add Don’s Seasoning, bring to boil and then simmer for 3 minutes. More Chicken and Beef is on my menu this year. Baked, grilled and less fried!! New Beginnings come with us cleaning up and living healthier. From our family to yours, we wish you a Happy New Year with a chance of
New Beginnings!! 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!! Minitor Market • Your Hometown Tradition 1161 Augusta Rd. Warrenville, SC www.MinitorMarket.com
8 • Saturday, January 9, 2016
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
SWIMMING TOGETHER
LIFEGUARD TRAINING Location: AIKEN COUNTY FAMILY YMCA Number of hours:
BARRACUDAS SWIM TEAM
30hrs at Y (8hrs eLearning)
We teach our athletes the fundamental skills and techniques of swimming while also promoting our four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
bathing suit, towel, and proof of age
SESSIONS
I. August 31 —September 30 II. October 2 - 30 III. Nov 2 - Dec 4
Items to bring: Prerequisites: pass the following swim test · Tread water for 2 min (legs only) · Swim 100 yards of front crawl · Swim 50 yards of each:
IV. January 4 - 29 V. February 1 - 21
Class Dates, Times
- Front crawl with head up
DAYS
- Sidestroke
Monday, Wednesday, Friday (6pm - 7pm (11&under)) (7pm —8pm (11&older))
Recertification Class Jan 9
- Breaststroke
9am-5pm cost $100
AGE
- Breaststroke with the head up
5 - 18 year olds are welcome to try out
- Elementary backstroke kick with hands on the chest
REGISTER
- Feet-first surface dive in 7 feet of water, then swim under water 15 feet
FEE
8 hours & 30 minutes of eLearning (assigned after registration)
Register at Aiken Family Y or online Members $55; Non-member $85 each session (meet fees are additional)
Cost Includes for Basic Class:
We will have optional swim meets during the season. Swim for competition, or swim for FUN!
CONTACT
AIKEN COUNTY FAMILY YMCA 621 Trolley Line Road Graniteville, SC 29829 www.thefamilyy.org 803-349-8080
Fanny Pack Resuscitator Mask Certification Cards (LG, First Aid, CPRO, O2)
9am-5pm all days cost $200 Lifeguard Class March4,7,9,11,14,16,18,20 Monday Wednesday Friday 4-8 pm Sunday.10-5 cost $250 Lifeguard Class April 4-8
Age Requirement: Must be 16 years old by the last day of class
ADDITIONAL INFO
For more information contact the Aiken Family Y aquatics at 803-349-8086
Instructor Class March 12,13,19,20
9am-5pm all days cost $250 Lifeguard Class May 1,3,5,7,8,10,12 Sun 9am-5pm Tues/Thurs.5-9pm Sat 9am-5pm cost $250 Crossover Class July 9-10 9am-5pm cost $100
Registration:
Ricky Duncan
In order to completely register for this course please go to this website for the YMCA Learning and Career Development Center: https://lcdc.yexchange.org
YOU’RE INVITED TO... TAKE SOME ME TIME WITH PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT A fun night for the kids with dinner and a movie, with crafts and games! Date: Every 3rd Saturday of the month Ages: 2— 12 Time: 5:30 — 9:00pm Fees: Members—$12 per child Primetime—$12 per child Non-members—$20 per child $5 sibling Discount
Upcoming Dates: Jan. 6, Feb 14, Feb 20, March 19
AIKEN COUNTY FAMILY YMCA 621 Trolley Line Rd 803 349 8080 www.thefamilyy.org
803-349-8086 www.thefamilyy.org
LEARN THRIVE GROW PARENTS’ MORNING OUT & DROP AND SHOP At the YMCA, we understand that Learning starts early. We offer child care to Parents so that they have time to do what they need while their children learn and have fun at the Y! Drop and Shop Parents’ Morning Out Children enjoy a variety of activities, including : the days of the week, colors, numbers, shapes, music and story time. Sessions: A new session start each month, and are two days a week. When: Monday/ Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday Time: 9:00-am-12:00pm
Contact Ricky Duncan @ 803-349-8086 or rduncan@the family.org
rduncan@thefamilyy.org
Let us watch your child while you take some “me” time. When: Monday through Saturday Time: 9:00-am-12:00pm Age: 8 weeks-4 years (M—F) 8 weeks-12years (Saturday) Cost : $9 members $12 nonmembers
Ages: 18months-4years Cost : $70 members $90 nonmembers
AIKEN COUNTY FAMILY YMCA 621 Trolley Line Road, Graniteville, SC 29829 803 349 8080
Saturday, January 9, 2016 • 9
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
LESSONS FOR ALL AGES PRIVATE SWIM LESSONS PROGRAM
AIKEN INDOOR TRIATHLON
Adult and Child
On your mark, Get set, go! Commit to accomplishing your goal of becoming a triathlete this year! We've set your training calendar for you to test fitness and track results. Grab a friend and race side-by-side, no matter what your ability. There's never been a better way to become a triathlete. In this one-hour race against the clock!
Private Swimming Lessons offer personalized, one-on-one instruction and a flexible schedule. Parents or Adults can arrange one to eight lessons for children age’s two to twelve (or adults) with a qualified instructor. We can schedule lessons at any time the pool is not already in use for group lessons or fitness classes.
REGISTRATION Ages 13 and up
Jan. 1 - Jan. 30: $20 Members / $35 Non-member Feb. 1 - Feb. 13: $25 Member / $40 Non-member Late Registration
Price:
Feb. 14 - Race Day (February 27): $30 Member /$45 Non-member
$25 per 30 minute lesson
Early registration participants will receive:
$50 per 60 minute lesson (Adults only)
T-shirt, Race bib, and Swim cap THE RACE
BUILD CONFIDENCE SPLASH BY SPLASH
Swim Lesson Instructor Certification
Swim Lessons For All Ages AIKEN COUNTY FAMILY YMCA
Kids build confidence when they learn something new. Preschool swim lessons focus on water adjustment, basic swim skills and pool safety. Youth Swim Lessons build on stroke development, rescue, character growth, personal safety, water sports and games.
Location: AIKEN COUNTY FAMILY YMCA Number of hours: 24
Registration: Is now open and will Close the Friday before the lessons begin. Session Dates: January 5th-28th March 1st– 24th May 3rd-26th
February 2nd-25th April 5th– 28th
Age
Pike Ray
Eel Starfish
3-5 years
Polliwog Minnow
Guppy Fish
6-12 years
Evening Lesson
6:00-6:30pm 6:30-7:15pm
Swim Instructor February 23-26
1. Swim 4 of the following strokes
9am-5pm Cost $225
Front Crawl, back crawl, breaststroke, sidestroke, elementary backstroke, and butterfly at the minnow level
Swim Instructor March 25-27 Fri. 5pm-8pm Sat/Sun 8am-5pm Cost $225
4. Current Emergency Oxygen Administration
$55-$85
6mo-3yrs
5:30-6:00pm
$50-$80
13years and up
715-8:00pm
$55-$85
Age Requirement: Must be 16 years old by the last day of class Cost: Varies on the Class Registration:
621 Trolley Line Rd. Graniteville SC 29829 www.thefamilyy.org
Recertification Classes Stroke Development February 6-7 10am-5pm Cost $85 Synchro May 28-29
$55-$85
Adult rduncan@thefamilyy.org
Class Dates, Times
3. Current First Aid Price
Parent/Child
CONTACT: Ricky Duncan 803-349-8086
Items to bring: bathing suit, towel, proof of age Prerequisites: pass the following swim test
2. Current CPR
Swimming Lessons are twice a week for four week. The time of the lesson is based on age. Skill Level
Race day is on February 27th
803-349-8080
10am-5pm Cost $85 Skin Diving June 11-12 10am-5pm Cost $85
In order to completely register for this course please go to this website for the YMCA Learning and Career Development Center: https://lcdc.yexchange.org
Ricky Duncan rduncan@thefamilyy.org 803-349-8086 www.thefamilyy.org
10 • Saturday, January 9, 2016 Photos are from the Health Eating for the Holidays class sponsored by the Hope Center of Graniteville and the Graniteville Brownfield Project. Chef Karen Temple taught us how to prepare these tasty appetizers in less than an hour. They were delicious. Goat cheese rolled in sunflower seeds and then drizzled with honey. Served with fresh raspberries and crackers. Kabobs using salami, cherry tomato, slice of cheese all marinated in Zesty Italian Dressing. Apple Butter tarts made with puff pastry, apple butter and cheddar cheese. Cucumber slices topped with a mixture of cream cheese, mayonnaise and powdered ranch dressing and a sliced cherry tomato.
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Saturday, January 9, 2016 • 11
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
A new you for a new year Jessica Moxley AEC Community Development Intern Aiken Electric Cooperative Touchstone Energy’s fifth annual RUN UNITED will take place April 30 beginning at 6:30 a.m. RUN UNITED is a half marathon, 5K and Kids Fun Run throughout historic parts of downtown Aiken. The race will begin in the festival area of Newberry Street, Aiken, SC. The purpose of RUN UNITED is to promote health and wellness while raising funds to assist those in need. During the holiday season, we sometimes splurge, eating more food than usual. With the holidays winding down, it is the perfect time to shed the pounds you might have gained from holiday meals, while contributing to a great cause. All proceeds from registration fees will be used to assist those in the community who need it most. We also have several sponsors already on board, including Academy Sports, Allstar Tent & Events, Aiken Regional Medical Centers, Chandler Law Firm, the City of Aiken, Dumpster Depot, First Citizen’s Bank, Gold’s Gym and Publix. If you’d like to become a sponsor or volunteer, contact rununited@ aikenco-op.org. “Aiken truly is a place like no other. Each year the entire community unites to contribute
to the success of Run United by working together and being cooperative, making it a race like no other. It’s definitely something you’d want to witness and be a part of, ” says Aiken Electric’s CEO, Gary Stooksbury. Coming together to make our community better is rewarding in itself. You can begin making a difference by registering at www. active.com or www.aikenco-op. com today.
12 • Saturday, January 9, 2016
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Guitars not guns:
Changing the world, one kid at a time By Sharon Ricks Music is powerful. It can fill up a restaurant on a slow night, bring joy to a child’s face, or send an urgent message to a violent world. On a Tuesday evening in early April, it did all three at once at the Pizza Hut Restaurant on Crosstown Court in Peachtree City. Families gathered for their evening meal around a group of guys with guitars. And the magic began: It’s summertime and the living is easy Fish are jumping and the cotton is high Your daddy’s rich and your mama’s good-looking Hush, little baby don’t you cry Guitars and Pizza Night is hosted by Guitars Not Guns (GNG) music program, which provides guitars and free lessons in classroom settings with qualified teachers to foster kids, at-risk youth, and other deserving children in an effort to prevent violence in schools and on the streets. On this night, for every purchase, Pizza Hut donated two dollars to GNG. Customers won hats, tshirts, art work, free pizza, and bumper stickers, and one lucky customer, Alec Duncan, walked away with a brand new guitar. Founded in 2000 in San Jose, California by Ray Nelson, cousin to country singer Willie Nelson, the GNG music program has spread to 13 states, the District of Columbia and Canada. The Georgia Chapter started in 2006 and is led by Lt Colonel Robert Black (ret). Gibson and Guitar Center are key partners. “We have helped so many kids turn their lives around,” says Ray. “We are gathering new chapters and shooting for more and would love to be in every state. So far, we have provided guitars to 2,000 kids coast to coast.”
GNG classes meet for one hour a week for eight weeks. Each class has about 10 students, aged eight to 18, and three instructors, explains Robert. In level one, students learn the basics: how to hold the guitar, strum it, play songs, and play with others. They also learn perseverance, discipline and selfesteem. Robert says the discipline helps them focus better academically. It’s also a great social activity, he says, because it’s a lot more fun to play with other people. Students who finish level one are encouraged to return for level two. They also enjoy a graduation party where they get to play for their parents, eat snacks, relax with friends, and welcome a distinguished visitor. Last time, it was the Mayor of Peachtree City. Both students and teachers receive a certificate at graduation, and each student receives his or her very own guitar. (That’s a secret, by the way. “The look on their faces when they find out they get to keep the guitar is priceless.” says Robert.) GNG is not anti-gun, says Robert. In fact, he says Ray started his career as a sniper in the U.S. Army. Robert served 21 years in the Air Force including assignments in Iraq, Bosnia, and South Korea. He knows what it’s like to carry a pistol with a round in the chamber and the safety off to ensure that it’s ready when he needs to use it. He says both he and Ray still shoot recreationally. But they are anti-gun violence. Ray says, “More people die from gun violence than have died in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.” He notes that there have been 31 school shootings in the United States since Columbine in 1999, when 13 people were killed. He also mentions the most recent tragedy where 27 people were murdered at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn.
Ray Nelson, Nick Nelson, Joshua Tysor, Cole Noltimier, and Daniel Sewell. Reading the list of violent tragedies on GNG’s Web site (www.guitarsnotguns.org) is troubling. But this night is different. Tonight, the bullets are songs and the guns are guitars, and troubled and deserving youth gather for picking and pizza, not gang violence and bloodshed. “Yes, I love it,” says 11-year-old Daniel Sewell. “I get to learn all of these cool songs. There are a lot of instructors. There are teenagers, grown men and one professional player.” Daniel’s favorite song is “Smoke on the Water.” He says it has cool chord progression. GNG teachers come in all ages, and they are all volunteers. At age 16, Sam Archbold is one of them. Last spring break, Sam took GNG international. He ran a marathon to raise money to go on a mission trip to Kenya with his church, and he asked Ray if he could take a guitar with him. “The mission trip has
been the most incredible part of my life so far,” he says. He spent a few days with a man named Robert and noticed that Robert’s guitar was falling apart. So Sam did what any GNG volunteer would do: he gave Robert a brand new guitar. Robert was so appreciative that last November, Sam got an invitation to Robert’s wedding. This spirit of giving is the hallmark of GNG. At the end of the day, it’s about giving the powerful gift of music to kids like Daniel. “When you get older and you outgrow baseball or football, and you’re not a professional, you can still have that skill of playing guitar like you did as a kid with sports,” says Daniel. “It’s gonna last a lifetime!” GNG welcomes your support. You can start a chapter, teach a class or help out nationally. Visit their Web site at www.guitarsnotguns.org or call 770861-2443 for more information.
Saturday, January 9, 2016 • 13
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
5 healthy resolutions for women
Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end A new year a new day but still the same caring folks here at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Center. In 2015, many new beginning happened from welcoming three new staff members, new volunteers and new partnerships and making changes in our food pantry, and an increase in students in the GED program. We wrapped up the year with the Annual Christmas Gift Giveaway hoping to bringing over 200 smiles on children faces Christmas morning in the Horse Creek Valley Area. A special Thank You to all the Volunteers who help distribute
the gifts which mad the job much easier and to all our donor. We look forward to the New Beginnings in 2016. We wish you a Happy New Year of good health, love, laughter and prosperity!!!
New Year’s Resolution No. 1: Eat, but Don’t Pig Out When women resolve to lose weight, they are often black and white about it, says Bonnie TaubDix, spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association. She says women tend to want to cut out major food groups, telling themselves they cannot have any candy, dessert, or carbohydrates. “It’s a setup for failure, because by the time mid-January comes around, those resolutions are already in line for the next new year,” says Taub-Dix. “It would be a much wiser decision to say, for example, ‘I’m going to cut back on desserts.’ Maybe pick a Saturday to have dessert.” Instead of deprivation, practice moderation during the holidays. New Year’s Resolution No. 2: Jump Outside the Box Many women who resolve to become more physically active think of going to the gym. They tend to hit the aerobic machines or join group exercise classes. They may get discouraged easily because they don’t achieve desired weight loss or muscle tone in a certain time frame. They may quit because of lack of time, energy, or money. Or, they may tire of the gym atmosphere. There are dozens of reasons why the best of workout intentions fall by the wayside come February. Yet they don’t have to end up that way if you’re willing to step outside of a certain mode of thinking -- that exercise has to be done a certain way, at a certain place, at a certain time, and for a certain amount of time. New Year’s Resolution No. 3: Guard Against the Bone Thief This may not sound like a popular health resolution, but it is a crucial one for women and girls of all ages. “A lot of women feel that when they’re not babies anymore, they don’t have to worry about their bones, but it’s quite the contrary,” says TaubDix. “Watching calcium in your diet
even as a young child or teen is very important, because that is the setup for what your bones may look like later on in life.” New Year’s Resolution No. 4: Take Health Exams and Get an “A” for Good Health Making a point to be up-to-date on health screenings may not sound sexy, but the tests could help you live longer and healthier. An osteoporosis screening test is ideal for all women aged 65 or older, or for younger women with one or more risk factor. It is also important to get tested if this problem runs in your family. There are other important health exams for women, and the optimal benefits usually correspond with certain age groups. Mammograms, for example, screen for breast cancer, a disease with a risk that increases after age 40. Consequently, the Task Force recommends that mammograms be performed every one or two years beginning at 40. Pap smears, which screen for cervical cancer, are recommended to start within three years of onset of sexual activity or at 21 years old, whichever comes first, and to continue screening at least every three years. Also, discuss with your doctor the new HPV vaccine, which helps reduce your risk of cervical cancer. Starting at 50, testing for colorectal cancer is also important. The disease more often strikes older men and women. New Year’s Resolution No. 5: Move Center Stage Women are well-known caretakers and jugglers of several tasks at once. With responsibilities concerning home, work, and children, there just aren’t enough hours to do all that needs done. The result: many women feel frazzled, frustrated, and forlorn. The mere thought of taking time to take care of themselves sends ripples of guilt through many women. Where does one find the time for self-care?
14 • Saturday, January 9, 2016
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Judge Hatchett to speak during annual Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration Event to feature service fair, community choir Judge Glenda Hatchett will be the keynote speaker for the 2016 Aiken Community Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration presented by Aiken Technical College and University of South Carolina Aiken. The celebration will be held Sunday, Jan. 24 at the USC Aiken Convocation Center, 375 Robert M. Bell Parkway in Aiken. A service fair featuring area nonprofits will kick-off the event at 2:30 p.m. followed by the program at 3 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. “I am so excited that Judge Hatchett will be the keynote speaker for this event,” said Stephanie Franklin, committee chair. “Her background in law and as a judge will bring a different perspective to Dr. King’s legacy.” Judge Hatchett is nationally known for her two-time Emmy nominated syndicated show, Judge Hatchett, which is in its 12th season. She is also the founder and CEO of a production company, Great Day Productions, which specializes in television programming. She currently sits on the Atlanta Falcon’s board of advisors and is a consultant for the National Basketball Association and National Football League. Dr. Sandra J. Jordan, Chancellor of the University of South Carolina Aiken, states: “The Aiken community is fortunate to have someone of Judge Hatchett’s caliber be our keynote speaker for the 2016 MLK event. This
event will be a highlight for the new year, and it is an appropriate way to start the spring semester for our students and the Aiken community.” Judge Hatchett is also very involved with community development and has served on numerous nonprofit boards including the national board of governors of the Boys and Girls Club of America; the board of advisors for Play Pumps International; the Leadership Circle for the After School Alliance; and the advisory board for the Women’s Resource Center at Spelman College. She is also the national spokesperson for Court Appointed Special Advocates, known as CASA, a nonprofit organization that trains volunteers to represent abused and neglected children. Each year, the theme of the event is selected based upon a quote by Martin Luther King, Jr. The 2016 theme is: “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.” “The event is an opportunity to celebrate and live out the dream of Dr. King as a community by coming together as a brotherhood; and it’s an affirmation that we are not alone but a society with a purpose to keep moving forward,” said Franklin. Dr. Susan A. Winsor, President of Aiken Technical College, states: “This event reflects both the diversity and unity of our community. It is a time that we come together in celebration of accomplishments and in contemplation of goals yet to be achieved. This event is a very meaningful reminder that all of us have the ability to be a contributor to continually improving the welfare and quality of life for all our people.” The celebration has become one that many look forward to attending each year, said Franklin. “We’ve had attendees travel from all over the state of SC to attend this event
with approximately 1000 participants last year,” she said. “So I say, come one, come all. It’s going to be a wonderful celebration of Dr. King and his life’s achievements.” There are also opportunities for members of the community to get involved with the event. Nonprofit organizations interested
in participating in the service fair should contact Sharon Rodgers at (803) 648-8331 or sharon@uwaiken.org. Those interested in singing with the Aiken Community Voices choir during the event are asked to contact Joel Scraper by Jan. 13 at (803) 641-3306 or joels@usca.edu. Practices will be held in advance of the event.
Save the Date
Aiken Technical College and University of South Carolina Aiken present
Aiken Community Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration with Judge Glenda Hatchett
January 24, 2016 at 2:30 pm
USC Aiken Convocation Center "If you can't fly, then run. If you can't run, then walk. If you can't walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward." -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Saturday, January 9, 2016 • 15
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Your Future is Within Reach! Looking for a new career? Ready to further your education? Want to gain a new skill? Aiken Technical College offers: • Degrees, Certificates, and Diplomas
• University Transfer
• Workforce Certifications
• Continuing Education
• Customized Training
Take a Step toward success and enroll today! www.ATC.edu | 803.508.7263
Aiken Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age.
16 • Saturday, January 9, 2016
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
ADMISSION IS FREE
SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2016 USC Aiken Convocation Center Attendees will be registered for a chance to win a pearl necklace courtesy of Aiken’s Crown Jewelers – Floyd & Green.