Saturday, September 9, 2017
Graniteville • Vaucluse • Warrenville
Vol. 3, No. 5
A labor of love – what it means to me BY ANNE FULCHER Merriam-Webster defines labor as a: “expenditure of physical or mental effort especially when difficult or compulsory,” or b: “human activity that provides the goods or services in an economy.” But I like to amp the phrase up a little more and think about what a “Labor of Love” means to me. The Thesaurus defines a labor of love as “productive work performed voluntarily without material reward or compensation.” In a day and time when the almighty dollar seems to drive the workforce, maybe we should all be driven more by a labor of love. I just celebrated the 28th birthday of my youngest son this week and let’s TRULY talk about a labor of love! He came into this world weighing a mere 9 pounds 14.5 ounces and that was with him being delivered 3 weeks early. Yes, Ben Fulcher was almost a toddler when he came into this world. No truer love is known as when a mother, or father for that matter, meets their child for the very first time. The fierce emotion that comes from within is one of the strongest feelings I have ever had and it has not gone away. Our passion and values lead us to our chosen labor of love. It may be preaching the gospel,
volunteering at a local church or organization or it may even be your chosen career. When you believe in something so strongly that money is not the driving force behind why you do what you do, well that is what a labor of love is all about. There are many people in the Aiken County area who work doggedly to aide local charities to better the lives of those in need. If you have never had the opportunity to volunteer at one of these organizations such as ACTS, Christ Central, Our Lady of the Valley, just to name a few, well you are missing out on seeing what a selfless labor of love can do for those who have come upon hard times. Quite often we forget that many of our friends and neighbors may be going through things that are difficult to talk about. One of the hardest things in life is to ask for help when in need. You can never know how low you feel when you can’t make ends meet for whatever reason. I do because I have been there and after that difficult time in my life I am a firm believer that we are put on this earth to raise one another up in difficult times. Find your Labor of Love and let it make your heart sing by not expecting anything in return. You will be amazed that the reward will far outweigh any amount of money you could have received.
2 • Saturday, Sept. 9, 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) • Sept. 16 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. – Senior Food Program for ACTS of Aiken clients, at 340 Park Ave. S.W. • Sept. 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. – 2nd ACTS Resale Store, 50 Canal St., Graniteville, is having its first anniversary celebration! It is a free family fun day - open to the public. See the ad in this publication for more details. Join us, meet the staff and volunteers; see your friends there and celebrate with food, fun and entertainment! (www.Facebook.org/2ndACTS) • Oct. 4 from 4 to 8 p.m. – Marco’s Pizza will donate 15 percent of all sales to ACTS on the first Wednesday every month. Please go 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 required. • Want to volunteer at ACTS (either location)? Come to Volunteer Orientation held each Thursday at 10 a.m. at ACTS of Aiken, 340 Park Ave. S.W. (come to the side door on the Park Ave. entrance side).
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. • Low-cost Eye Clinic:Wednesday, Sept. 20. Call the Hope Center for qualifications • Turning the Pages Ministry:Led by Rev. Dr. Gollie Walker on th second Tuesdays and Thursdays, Sept. 12 and 26 at 7 p.m. • FUSE Newspring Youth Group: Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. • Beginner’s Computer Class: Tuesdays, Sept. 19 and 26 10 to 11:30 a.m., free. Come learn some basic computer skills. • 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:In October from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; free, call for date
• Trinity Academy Preschool f or 3- and 4-year-olds begins Sept. 5. Register at Hope Center. Class size is limited and meets TuesdaysandWednesdaysfrom 8:30 to 11 a .m.
Gregg Park Civic Center
www.greggparkonline.com
FALL YARD SALE Gregg Park’s Fall Yard Sale will be held on Saturday, Oct. 14 from 8 a.m. to noon. To save your space and for more information, call the park at 663-7552. The cost is $5 per space with a maximum of 2 spaces. **Seller brings their own tables. *The Bloodmobile will also be available that day from 9 a.m. to noon. 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. GYMNASTICS Gymnastic classes will begin on Monday, Sept. 11 at Gregg Park Civic Center. The cost of instruction is $30
per month (or $10 per class). USA Gymnastics-certified coach Rhonda Whitley will teach gymnastics for children ages 5-14, on Mondays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. For more information, please call the park at 663-7552. www. greggparkonline.com UNLIMITED EXERCISE CLASSES PER MONTH $10 per month for passholders and $15 per month for nonpassholders
See Calendar, Page 13 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 ACTS
Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 • 3
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Pentecost, Vaucluse United Methodist churches welcome new pastor, Javy R. Gwaltney III BY RAY WILLIS
Pastor Javy R. Gwaltney III, of Bamberg, South Carolina, has recently become the new minister at Pentecost United Methodist Church of Warrenville, SC, and Vaucluse United Methodist Church of Vaucluse, SC. “Rudy,” as he prefers to be called, took over the dual ministry after the departure of Pastor Susan Maddox, who is now the new pastor of Saluda UMC, in Saluda, SC, a short distance to the north. Pastor Rudy is a humble man who has felt the Lord nudging him along each step of the way on his spiritual journey after he had been resisting that path, less traveled, for a long time. He presents himself as an overwhelming presence, with his ready smile and a friendly, yet, booming voice. I like thinking of him as a “gentle giant” in a long, loose comfortable robe. It was fashioned by none other than his precious wife, Holly. Pastor is proud of it and also loves giving her much credit for her creation. In early 2015, Rudy had been reading from a textbook of the preaching class he was scheduled to begin in a couple of weeks. A few days later his church district’s superintendent called him at his office where Gwaltney worked for a company 32 years, providing medical care to the sick in their homes under order of their doctors, and asked if he could come by his office and talk to him. ( By the , his wife, Holly, is also in the medical profession and is a Nurse Practitioner (NP) at Bamberg Family Practice.) The District Superintendent (DS) had asked Javy Gwaltney about taking over as pastor of a small church desperately in need, as the serving minister had died suddenly. At this point Rudy had met the DS only once and not even declared himself as a candidate. A couple of days later Javy Gwaltney the Third had found himself in the pulpit, even after having had declared himself as not the best person for the job. However, Pastor Rudy, as he would now become, was not about to let that pulpit remain empty and accepted the call to serve the Lord if he was needed there. Pastor Rudy admits, as most people his age would, “I have regrets in my life, but they are mostly from the things I did NOT do. When
the flame of my life draws to its end, when I can no longer rage rage against the dying of the light...when the time comes for me to meet my Lord and Savior, I hope to do so with Him knowing that I made my very best effort to answer His call.” Also, of particular importance, is that our beloved, new man of God is a Gideon, and had felt he had also been called to that special position by the Lord. He has spoken in many churches of various denominations in behalf of the Gideons around the state and has viewed first-hand, how the smallest efforts can be multiplied exponentially in the service of the Lord. Javy R. Gwaltney III is the son of an Air Force pilot who was transferred to a different location each time he was called upon to learn how to fly a newer or different type of aircraft. Javy was born in Goldsboro, NC, and went to 1st grade at McGuire AFB in NJ. It seemed he was moving around the east coast every 6 to 8 months and, hence, attending different schools. Our pastor then went to high school in Albemarle, NC, and graduated in Miramar, FL. Shortly after taking the job as a provider of medical care to the sick in their homes he started night school, full time, and earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from Southern Wesleyan University in Central SC. As previously mentioned, Pastor Rudy’s, also friendly and smiling wife, Holly, is an NP working in their Bamberg home area. Son, Sloan, who has been attending church, along with his dad and mother, whenever able, is a senior, majoring in Biology at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC. The Gwaltneys also have an older son, Javy Gwaltney IV, residing in Minnesota, who is an editor for a modern era magazine, who also gets to fly all over the world, something the pastor would have enjoyed doing at another time in his life. From my own personal observations, most of us at Pentecost are quite happy with our new pastor, and I’ve heard it said by more than one: “I have left church today feeling inspired and like I heard a fine, meaningful sermon.” Prayerfully, soon, we will have several new visitors to our wonderful church. Welcome, Pastor Rudy and family.
Pastor Javy R. Gwaltney III
4 • Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Clyburn Community Health Express Is Coming to YOU Location Dates Hours of Operation
Mon - Thur 7:45 - 3:15 FEB 2-3 Fri 7:45 -12:30
Jackson – Town Hall
Jackson – Town Hall (Walk-Ins are MAR30-31 Accepting all adults Welcome)
Jackson Town Hall (Adults & Children) Call for an appointment Jackson – Town Hall APR 11-13
803-380-7000
Dental Services
Medical Services
Exams
Urgent Care
X-rays
Exams
Extractions
Treatment
Fillings
Flu Shots
Hours of Operation
Rural Health Services, Inc.
Do You Need Dental or Medical Care? Are Transportation and Time a Problem?
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 • 5
What labor means to me
Adia Hughes is the daughter of Jessica Jones and Hampton Hughes. She is in Brenda Gallardo’s third-grade class at Warrenville Elementary.
6 • Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 • 7
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Aiken Regional Medical Centers presents:
A special program for breast health awareness According to the American Cancer Society, besides skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women. In 2017, it is estimated that about 30 percent of newly diagnosed cancers in women will be breast cancers. Just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Aiken Regional Medical Centers wants to remind women about their special breast health program designed specifically for those who are between the ages of 18 and 39, the time period before annual screening mammogram recommendations begin.
Taking charge of your breast health Since it’s never too early to take charge of your breast health, the hospital’s LIV Now – Live Later program offers younger women a fun and interactive way to learn about breast cancer and how to prevent it. LIV Now – Live Later is offered through Aiken Regional’s WE: Women Enlightened for Better Health program. The WE program helps women navigate the tools and resources needed to keep them and their families healthy. WE is a network of women of all ages who take a proactive approach to their health.
Enhanced self-exams support early detection Because breast cancer can strike at any age, the American Cancer Society recommends monthly breast self-exams beginning at age 20. To make these exams easier, WE members receive a free LIV® Breast Awareness Aid that enhances the touch of a breast self-exam by 10 times and makes it easier to detect breast abnormalities. The LIV aid, developed by breast cancer survivor and advocate Olivia Newton John, is a heart-shaped pouch filled with gel that molds to the skin, enhancing the touch for more accuracy.
LIV Now – Live Later In addition to the breast self-exam aid, when women join the program they receive information on breast cancer facts and statistics, resources and genetic testing information, and tips on prevention. Liv Now -- Live Later also gives insights into inspirational stories of survival, enabling women of every age to meet some of the young women who have faced a
breast cancer diagnosis at an early age and facility. A healthy meal and time for meeting won the battle. fellow WE members are other popular parts of the WE orientation. How to get started Becoming a member of WE and joining The first step to getting involved is to sign the LIV Now -- Live Later movement is up for the free WE program. New WE mem- easy. Simply visit www.livnowlivelater.com bers attend an orientation program where and fill out a WE application. That’s all you they meet nurse navigators, learn about WE need to do to get started on the path to better benefits and the LIV aid, and take a tour of the breast health!
8 • Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
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, 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 Computer, you would like toPhone use Master Your Tablet and 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
premier instructor of personal computer technology and to help the McGrath business thrive, please contact us.
It’s not too late to register for the fall session.
Email: mcgrathclc@gmail.com Classes are filling up quickly, but there are still openings. Telephone: Abby Grizzle at (803)some 641-3741
To register by mail: go to our website – mcgrathclc.com; download and complete the Email: mcgrathclc@gmail.com registration form; make checks payable to USCA; mail completed registration form and Our volunteers receive: payment to USCA Office of Continuing Education, Box 20, 471 University Parkway, Telephone: Abby Grizzle at (803) 641-3741 Aiken, SC 29801. 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)
To register in person: see Abby Grizzle, room 113, USCA Business & Education Building, Monday – Friday, 9:00-4:00 pm; OR come to our Open Lab on Wednesdays 3:00-5:00 pm during the school term (September 20-November 8), in the McGrath classroom.
Hurry. Don’t be left out!
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 Laura Anderson with course or schedule questions at 803-641-3741
McGrath Computer Learning Center is a non-profit, all volunteer organization.
Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 • 9
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
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10 • Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
2nd Acts in Graniteville celebrates first anniversary
In December 2015, Pastor James Young and Assoc. Pastor Steve Gillette met with ACTS Executive Director, Carla Cloud and Operations Manager, Karen Perry to discuss the possibility of opening an ACTS satellite in the GranitevilleVaucluse area. It seemed as though the area was underserved in the areas of assistance such as ACTS provides throughout Aiken County. While there were some agencies offering similar services to the area, transportation seemed to be an issue for those in the proposed area. During the meeting, both Carla and Karen felt God speak to them specifically about the lack of a resale/thrift store in Graniteville. As they drove back to the office, Karen suggested they take a detour and ride through the Masonic Lodge Shopping Center. There was a vacant store whose owner they knew. They placed a call asking him to come show them the space and while they waited, both ladies seemed to see the vision of people walking in and out of the store. They began to realize, unlike the Aiken store which also raises funds for the operation of the ACTS ministry, this store would be an outreach ministry and economic boost to the area. Bringing an affordable clothing, housewares, and furniture store to Graniteville could benefit the residents, as well as, the shopping center and town. In February, the ladies brought the vision to the ACTS board and after much research, deliberation, and prayer the board produced a business plan and pro forma. They also turned to
the Aiken Chamber’s SCORE to get input. According to all plans, budgets, and recommendations the project was doomed to fail. However, as Carla likes to share, ACTS is a faith-based ministry and her board is strong in their faith. In June of the same year, 6-months after the initial vision, the ACTS Board approved opening a 2nd resale store in Graniteville. There were some stipulations put in place before the final approval. ACTS of Aiken ministry must not suffer from this additional outreach. There were negotiations with the Masonic Lodge concerning the lease and a cap was set on the amount of investment ACTS would make toward this new ministry. But in October of 2016, 2nd ACTS hosted a ribbon cutting and grand opening. Now one year into the ministry, the need is still there and while the resale store is still operating in the red, the actual financials read better than expected. So, on September 30th, 2nd ACTS will host a 1-year Anniversary Celebration. There will be games, food, karaoke, prizes, and of course great sales! Come out and join the fun from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at 2nd ACTS, 50 Canal Street, Unit #6 in Graniteville. Also, please consider volunteering your time to this ministry. ACTS ministries could not survive without the wonderful volunteers that assist in all areas – reception, interviewing, clothing, donation intake/sorting, resale, donation pickups, etc. and 2nd ACTS has many positions to fill if we are going to continue for another year… or more.
Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 • 11
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
2
nd.
COME HELP US CELEBRATE
OUR FIRST ANNIVERSARY! Saturday, September 30, 2017 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 50 Canal St., Graniteville
AS22-XNSP42152
For more information, call 803-392-7022
12 • Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017
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.
Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 • 13
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville 30 minutes – short on time but long on 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.
CALENDAR from 2
CARDIO/WEIGHT CLASS A 30/30 Cardio and Weight Class consisting of a cardio workout and followed by light TENNIS CLINICS weights for toning and abdominal work is Clinics are held for ages 5 and up on held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 to Saturdays from 9 to 11 a.m. with Gabrielle 6 p.m. with instructor Becky Geeting. Morgan as the instructor. Cost is $10 for members and an additional fee of $3 for ZUMBA non-members. Bring water bottle and Check out the Zumba Party on Tuesdays racquet. Learn the basic rules of play, stroke from 5 to 6 p.m. with instructor Becky instruction, drills and games. Geeting. This class is for any level of participation and provides a nonintimidating opportunity for new exercisers. Come join the fun and enjoy group fitness with less impact. RESISTANCE BAND TRAINING Training is held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 to 6:30 p.m. It’s only
Midland Valley Area Chamber of Commerce Meetings are the second Wednesday of each month at noon. For more information, call 803-645-9720.
Midland Valley Public Library 9 Hillside Road, Langley Hours are Mondays from 1 to 6 p.m., Tuesdays from 2 to 6 p.m., Wednesdays from 1 to 6 p.m. and Thursdays from 1 to 6 p.m. Call 803-593-7379.
Megiddo Dream Station
• The Benefit Bank is available by appointment only; call Jackie Cobb at 803617-9532. • ACOA Senior Program – Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to noon • GED – Tuesday and Thursday from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Alcoholic Anonymous: Monday and Wednesday and the second Saturday at 8 p.m.
Sign up for Megiddo Dream Station Work for Success Program by calling 803392-7044 or dropping by 103 Canal St., Graniteville. More than 300 people have successfully returned to the workforce after completing our 8-week program.
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering programs are prohibited from Our Lady of the Valley Catholic USDA discriminating based on race, color, Center national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil • The Food Pantry is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 to 11:45 a.m. rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA. for emergency assistance by appointment only. Call 803-593-2623 to schedule. Please see CALENDAR, page 17
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.
14 • Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Celebrating Labor Day Labor Day does not have the same as those meaning as to those who are or who have been a member of a labor union. It was out of the labor union movement that this celebration was founded. The purpose was to show the strength of the union labor movement. Union members marched in the streets holding street parades, followed by picnics with bands and fireworks. Some of these events had turned sour ending with union workers on strike shutting down transportation and mail delivery in many cities. It was so bad that President Cleveland sent in federal troops to break up the strikes, riots and burning of buildings. Shortly after that, the federal government declared the first Monday in September as Labor Day to make peace with the union workers. Sen. James Henderson Kyle of South Dakota introduced a bill, S. 730, to Congress shortly after the Pullman strike of 1894, proposing Labor Day be the first Monday in September. Here’s how Rep. Lawrence McGann (D-IL), who sat on the Committee on Labor, argued for the holiday in a report submitted on May 15, 1894: “The use of national holidays is to emphasize some great event or principle in the minds of the people by giving them a day of rest and recreation, a day of enjoyment, in commemoration of it. “By making one day in each year a public holiday for the benefit of workingmen the equality and dignity of labor is emphasized. “Nothing is more important to the public weal than that the nobility of labor be maintained. “So long as the laboring man can feel that he holds an honorable as well as useful place in the body politic, so long will he be a loyal and faithful citizen. “The celebration of Labor Day as a national holiday will in time naturally lead to an honorable emulation among the different crafts beneficial to them and to the whole public. “It will tend to increase the feeling of common brotherhood among men of all crafts and callings, and at the same time kindle an honorable desire in each craft to surpass the rest. “There can be no substantial objection to making one day in the year a national holiday for the benefit of labor.
“The labor organizations of the whole country, representing the great body of our artisan population, request it. “They are the ones most interested. They desire it and should have it. “If the farmers, manufacturers, and professional men are indifferent to the measure, or even oppose it, which there is no reason to believe, that still would constitute no good objection, for their work can be continued holidays as well as on other days if they so desire it. “Workingmen should have one day in the year peculiarly their own. Nor will their employers lose anything by it. “Working men are benefited by a reasonable amount of rest and recreation. Whatever makes a workingman more of a man makes him more useful as a craftsman.” Cleveland signed the bill into law on June 28, 1894. For more than 100 years, many Americans have celebrated Labor Day not knowing its beginnings. For the business sector, it has become another money-making holiday. Store are having ‘Labor Days Sales’ that reap profits only second to the Christmas season. It has become the last big hurrah for the beach industry as well. For many Americans, it marks the end of summer and the beginning of school and the coming of fall. It is the last family get together of the summer often celebrated with family picnics. Let us celebrate that in America we have the right to strive for the jobs we choose. Thankfully, we do not have a government which dictates the profession we must work in I see Labor Day as a time to be thankful for the opportunities allowed us in America. – Mel Minitor
Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017• 15
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
Based on the total number of people in the household. Based on the total number of people in the household. Household Size Household Size
Income Income
Effective July 1, 2016 thru June 29, 2017
Effective July 1, 2016 thru June 29, 2017 2 people $31,860 or less 2 people Based on the total number Based of$31,860 people in the or household. less on the total number of people in the household. 3 people $40,180 or less 3 people $40,180Income or Household Size Household Sizeless Income 4 people $48,500 or less 4 people $48,500ororless less 1 person $23,540 1 person $23,540 or less 5 people $56,820 or less people $56,820ororless less 2 5people $31,860 2 people $31,860 or less 6 people $65,140 or less 6 people $65,140ororless less 3 people $40,180 3 people $40,180 or less Add $8,320 for each additional family member. Add $8,320 for each additional family member.
4 people
$48,500 or less 4 people
$48,500 or less
6 people
$65,140 or less 6 people
$65,140 or less
If Ifyou and free please find 5 people $56,820these or less youareareeligible eligible andinterested interestedin5inreceiving receiving these freeservices, services, find people $56,820please or less the thecounty countyyou youlive liveininand andcall callthe theBCN BCNcontact contactperson personininyour yourarea. area. $8,320 forHealth each additional family Add $8,320 formember. each family member. Joyce Hudson,Add Community Sabrina Early,additional Community Health Joyce Hudson, Community Health Sabrina Early, Community Health Worker 843.264.2899 Worker: 803.643.2100 Worker 843.264.2899 Worker: 803.643.2100
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 BestChance ChanceNetwork Network(BCN) (BCN) Income IncomeEligibility EligibilityGuidelines Guidelines Effective July 1, 2016 thru June 29, 2017 Effective July 1, 2016 thru June 29, 2017 Best ChanceBest Network Chance(BCN) Network (BCN Income Income Eligibility Guideline 1 person Eligibility $23,540Guidelines or less 1 person $23,540 or less
CR-011064 6/16
If you are eligibleCharleston, andIfinterested in receiving these freeinBamberg, services, please you are eligible and interested receiving thesefind free services, Abbeville, Berkeley, Aiken, Allendale, Barnwell, Abbeville, Berkeley, Charleston, Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Chesterfield, Clarendon, Darlington, Calhoun, Colleton, Dorchester, the county you live in the andDillon, call theyou BCNBeaufort, contact person inBCN your area. person in yo county live in and call the contact Chesterfield, Clarendon, Darlington, Dillon, Beaufort, Calhoun, Colleton, Dorchester, Florence, Georgetown, Greenwood, Horry, Edgefield, Fairfield, Hampton, Jasper, Florence, Georgetown, Greenwood, Horry, Edgefield, Fairfield, Hampton, Jasper, Laurens, Lee, McCormick, Marion, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lexington,Health Newberry, Joyce Hudson, Community Health Sabrina Early, Community Laurens, Lee, McCormick,Joyce Marion, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lexington, Hudson, Community Health SabrinaNewberry, Early, Communit Marlboro, Orangeburg, Saluda, Sumter & & Richland Marlboro, Orangeburg, Saluda, Sumter & & Richland Worker 843.264.2899 Worker 843.264.2899Worker: 803.643.2100Worker: 803.643.2100 Williamsburg Williamsburg Abbeville, Berkeley, Charleston, Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg,Aiken, Barnwell, Abbeville, Berkeley, Charleston, Allendale, Bamberg, B Chesterfield, Clarendon,Evelyn Darlington, Dillon, Beaufort, Calhoun, Dorchester, Lugo, Hispanic/Latino Chesterfield, Clarendon, Darlington, Dillon, Colleton, Beaufort, Calhoun, Colleton, Evelyn Lugo, Hispanic/Latino Florence, Georgetown, Greenwood, Horry, Edgefield, Fairfield, Hampton, Jasper, Florence, Coordinator: Georgetown, Greenwood, Horry, Edgefield, Fairfield, Hampton Outreach 864.240.4256 Outreach Coordinator: 864.240.4256 Laurens, Lee, McCormick, Marion, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lexington, Newberry, Laurens, Lee, McCormick, Marion, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lexingto Anderson, Cherokee, Chester, Greenville, Marlboro, Orangeburg, Saluda, Sumter & & Richland Anderson, Cherokee, Chester, Greenville, Marlboro, Orangeburg, Saluda, Sumter & & Richland Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg, Union & Williamsburg Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg, Union & Williamsburg York York Evelyn Lugo, Hispanic/Latino Evelyn Lugo, Hispanic/Latino Outreach Coordinator:Outreach 864.240.4256 Coordinator: 864.240.4256 July 2016
Anderson, Cherokee, Chester, Greenville, Anderson, Cherokee, Chester, Greenville,July 2016 Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg, Union & Spartanburg, Union & Oconee, Pickens,
CON
16 • Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
GET CONNECTED
AIKEN COUNTY FAMILY YMCA SEPTEMBER 2017
LABOR DAY HOURS Monday, September 4th, 5AM - 5PM - No PM Childwatch NEW LAP POOL ONLY HOURS Beginning Tues., Sept 5th
Open Swim, Adult Lap Swim, and Water Aerobics MONDAY - FRIDAY OPEN: 8AM - 12PM & 4PM - 8PM; CLOSED: 12PM - 4PM SATURDAY: 8AM - 5PM SUNDAY: 1PM - 5PM
PRIMETIME AFTER SCHOOL CARE NEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SITES!!! Byrd Greendale Busbee-Corbett North Aiken Ridge Spring-Monetta Kids participate in a variety of skill-building games, crafts, outdoor activities, homework time, and curriculums which reinforce character development all while in a safe and well supervised environment at the school. Primetime is available from the end of the school day until 6pm.
One Time Registration Required $45/Child
Members: $45/week; Non-members: $50/week Scholarships Available
PARENTS NIGHT OUT! Saturday, September 16th 5:30PM - 9:00PM Drop off your kids (Potty Trained through age 12), for an evening full of fun, games, crafts, pizza, and a movie!!
Members: $5/child; Non-Members: $15/child www.thefamilyy.org • 621 Trolley Line Road • 803 349 8080 • Follow us on Facebook
Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 • 17
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Divorce is hard on everyone involved “Divorce is probably as painful as death.” – William Shatner “Therefore what God has joined together, let no man separate.” – Bible
Divorce. It happens in all our families. It happened in mine. One of my siblings went through the pain of divorce. She has since been married to a wonderful man for many years, but although time has dulled the pain, it’s still there. God has made it clear that He “hates divorce,” and yet it was permitted in the Old Testament because of their “hardness of heart.” Today there is also hardness of heart, but that doesn’t make divorce any more desirable or acceptable. The concern in this article is the affect it has on the children. The magnitude of its effect is debated, but never the fact that it is negative. The Marriage and Religion Research Institute (MARRI) recently assembled information on the effects of divorce on children. Their conclusion is that “Divorce causes irreparable harm to all involved, but most especially to children.” “Family: Divorce permanently weakens the family and the relationship between children
CALENDAR from 13 Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program
and parents. It frequently leads to the development of destructive conflict management methods, diminished social competence, the early loss of virginity, diminished sense of masculinity or femininity, more trouble with dating, more cohabitation, greater likelihood of divorce, higher expectations of divorce later in life, and a decreased desire to have children. “Religious practice: Divorce diminishes the frequency of worship of God and recourse to Him in prayer. “Education: Divorce diminishes children’s learning capacity and educational attainment. “The marketplace: Divorce reduces household income and deeply cuts individual earning capacity. “Government: Divorce significantly increases crime, abuse and neglect, drug use, and the costs of compensating government services. “Health and well-being: Divorce weakens children’s health and longevity. It also increases behavioral, emotional, and psychiatric risks, including even suicide.” Although I believe the evidence is clear that divorce is never a “good” thing, it is also clear that there are times when the decision to di-
vorce may be the only option. For example in cases of severe spousal abuse where the abusing spouse refuses to stop or get help, divorce is certainly understandable. There will be consequences, however. There always are when we go against God’s design. The divorcing couple has the ability to choose divorce and its consequences. But the children don’t have a choice. So all involved need to understand and help the children navigate this stormy time. Laura Petherbridge, in an article published by Focus on the Family, suggests some actions we can take to help children of divorce. • Find a support group. The best way for your child to heal is for you to get healthy and strong first. • Make it clear that your child had nothing to do with the divorce. • In an age-appropriate manner, tell him the truth. If your wife has left the home for another relationship, say something like, “Your mom wants to be with another man, but she still loves you very much.” • Make changes slowly. Give your child a chance to adjust to your new family structure. • Wait to date. It’s best to let at least two years pass before getting involved in another rela-
tionship, giving you and your child time to heal from the divorce. • Let your child love the other parent and never bash the other parent. Don’t allow insecurity or hurt to hinder your child’s relationship with your former spouse. Refrain from negative talk about your ex-spouse for the sake of your child. • Discipline consistently. Continue being a diligent parent in spite of your own feelings of hurt and/or guilt. • Let kids be kids. Do not use your child to relay information or put them in the center of disputes. Preserve and protect their innocence. • Communicate that God is your family’s protector and provider and continues to love and care for you and your child. • Give God time to mend your heart, restore you and teach you how to forgive yourself and your ex-spouse.
information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: http://www. ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary 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.
Church (formerly Langley Pentecostal Holiness Church).on the third Wednesday of each month from 11:30 until 12:30. For more information, contact Rosealind Morse at rosegoes@aol. com.
The Family and Marriage Coalition of Aiken, Inc.
Aiken County Career and Technology Center
1651 Banks Mill Road, Aiken, SC 29803, www.aikenfamco.com 803-640-4689
The Valley Alliance
Valley Alliance meets at Langley Bible
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, 640-4689, rogerrollins@aikenfamco.com , www.aikenfamco.com.
The center will be having registration on August 16th from 11:00am to 5:30pm. We are still accepting applications for some career programs. Call 803-5937300 for details.
18 • Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Friends of the Animal Shelter FOTAS Dog Ears Reading Session for kids is Sept. 27 On Wednesday, Sept. 27, FOTAS will be featuring another Dog Ears Reading event at the Aiken County Animal Shelter from 1:30 to 3:30. This is a special opportunity for children 5 years of age and older to read to dogs and cats in need. Not only does the activity build your child’s reading confidence and help socialize the animals, but it’s also a lot of fun! Reservations are required. Just call 803514-4313 or email to info@fotasaiken.org.
Polo Under the Stars event for FOTAS, County Shelter is Oct. 6 Polo Under the Stars, A fundraiser for FOTAS to benefit the Aiken County Animal Shelter, will take place on Friday, Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m. A $30 donation per car entitles folks to game access, open bar, and an after party dance featuring DJ Byron Bush. This fun event for a good cause is sponsored by Wagener Polo Club and Dennis & Janice Freeland. All proceeds will go to help the Aiken County Animal Shelter.
Adoptions bring smiles!
Thank you to the fantastic folks who recently adopted animals from the Aiken County Shelter! You gave these animals forever homes and a second chance at a good life. We appreciate you looking out for these cats and dogs in need, and all the support the local community gives to FOTAS and the animals at the County Shelter. • Bruce the puppy is adopted by Aryez Draper and Remington Kolb of Aiken. • Puppy Chanel goes home with Kathryn Sollenberger of North Augusta •Kitten Genesee was adopted to Kayla Cox and her children. • The Robinsons of North Augusta adopt two gray and white brothers, Dax and Mel • Puppy Morpheus is adopted by Allison Williams of Clearwater. • Clementine, a sweet hound, gets ready to go home with Clinton Vomund of Aiken. • Ice is adopted by Blake Wallis of Grovetown • Simon is one happy dog as he gets adopted by Deanna Babula of Martinez, GA. • Roscoe poses with his new family, the Halls of Aiken, right after being adopted. • Trinity is adopted by Darin McGillivary of North Augusta
• Sad-eyed Lucie finally finds her match and a loving forever home Lucie, a red Terrier/Boxer mix who continually was passed over by potential adopters, seemed to be giving up hope that she would find her forever home. While she was quickly becoming a Shelter staff favorite and popular with the FOTAS volunteers because of her expressive face and sweet personality, she wasn’t getting much attention from visitors. Day after day, she’d see other dogs leave the shelter with new owners while she was virtually unnoticed. It was wearing on her and she started to get depressed. Lucie did have one trait that made her more difficult to adopt – she didn’t get along with most other dogs so she needed to be the only canine in a one-dog home. Also, since she is happiest when around people, going home with folks who couldn’t spend a lot of time with her was out of the question. But then Jimmy Miles called to ask about the sad-eyed, two-year-old dog. The Aiken man saw her photo on the FOTAS Facebook page and wanted to meet her. Jimmy said he didn’t have any other pets at home, plus he had a fenced-in yard and a kiddie pool for her to play in! When Jimmy came to visit Lucie, he wasn’t sure if he was ready for a new dog following his last dog’s passing. But as soon as he spent some time with Lucie, he knew she was going home with him. Now, Lucie is Jimmy’s roommate and constant companion. They recently visited the Shelter and sad-eyed Lucie looked extremely happy. Thank you, Jimmy, and congratulations, Lucie!
FOTAS Helicopter Golf Ball Drop tickets for a chance to win $1,000 The Friends of the Animal Shelter (FOTAS) will host their 4th annual fundraiser, “Playing for the Pets” Charity Golf Tournament, on Monday, October 9 at Woodside Plantation Country Club. The Golf Ball Drop will kick off the tournament this year, with the helicopter flying in at approximately 8 a.m. to release pre-numbered golf balls from 300 feet at a designated area on the golf course. The ball that lands in the hole first, or closest to the hole, will win a $1,000 cash prize. You do not have to play golf or be present to win. Corresponding numbered $10.00 Helicopter Ball Drop Tickets can be purchased from a FOTAS volun-
teer or online at www.fotasaiken.org The tournament is a four-person Captains Choice team event that will begin at 9 a.m. with a shotgun start and is open to players of all abilities. Registration fee is $90 per person or $360 per team. Entry deadline is Sept. 27, 2017. The tourney is being sponsored by Milton Ruben Toyota, Aiken Saddlery, Hibbitts Drug Co., Affordable Quality Marble & Granite, Marco’s Pizza, Invisible Fence, Southern Equine, Atlantic Broadband and T-Mobile. Entry fees will include delicious muffins by Ridgecrest Coffee Bar, coffee & juice, greens and cart fees, fabulous golfer bags, prizes and awards. There also will be a chance to win a free car from Milton Ruben Toyota if you are fortunate enough to make a hole-in-one on the designated par three. Longhorn Steakhouse will serve lunch immediately after the tournament. All proceeds from these events will go to benefit the Aiken County Animal Shelter. For more information, please contact CoChairpersons Ross and Sandy Staiger 803226-9672 or email golf @fotasaiken.org.
Beautifying County Shelter with flower donations FOTAS Volunteers Bonnie White and Gale Hovey donated flowers to beautify the County Shelter located at 333 Wire Road. Bonnie, seen here with Adoption Coordinator Hillary Clark-Kulis, planted a new flower garden in front of the shelter’s sign. She is a master gardener and did a terrific job.
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 • 19
20 • Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017
Graniteville, Vaucluse, Warrenville
FREE PSA Tests for Men at Aiken Regional
Now men age 50 and older can get their annual prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test for free anytime of the year. Stop by the Cancer Care Institute of Carolina and pick up an order form from the receptionist. Take the order to the first floor laboratory at Aiken Regional and have your blood drawn. A physician will contact you with your results.
Call 803-641-5833, press option 1 for more information.
111 Miracle Drive | Aiken, SC 29801
Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website 170132