Aiken Welcome 2013

REAL.

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H E A LT H C A R E .

Sophisticated healthcare with a neighborly feel.

At Aiken Regional we don’t just “treat patients” —we care for our friends and neighbors. What you’ll find here is an advanced facility staffed with people who are committed to delivering leading-edge healthcare with a human touch.

That’s why we’re Aiken’s choice for real, personal healthcare.

Finding the right doctor is easy—and free.

Visit www.aikenregional.com and request a free hospital brochure.

Open this page for a complete physician listing and information about Aiken Regional Medical Centers.

See inside for a listing of our comprehensive services.

Call 803-610-2499 to reach Direct DoctorsSM Plus, our free physician referral service, Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and speak with a representative.

Or visit aikenregional.com and go to “Find a Doctor.”

302 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801 803-641-5000

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.

Welcome Aiken FC gatefold.indd 1

12/7/12 1:46 PM

REAL.

3HUVRQDO

H E A LT H C A R E .

Sophisticated healthcare with a neighborly feel.

At Aiken Regional we don’t just “treat patients” —we care for our friends and neighbors. What you’ll find here is an advanced facility staffed with people who are committed to delivering leading-edge healthcare with a human touch.

That’s why we’re Aiken’s choice for real, personal healthcare.

Finding the right doctor is easy—and free.

Visit www.aikenregional.com and request a free hospital brochure.

Open this page for a complete physician listing and information about Aiken Regional Medical Centers.

See inside for a listing of our comprehensive services.

Call 803-610-2499 to reach Direct DoctorsSM Plus, our free physician referral service, Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and speak with a representative.

Or visit aikenregional.com and go to “Find a Doctor.”

302 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801 803-641-5000

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.

Welcome Aiken FC gatefold.indd 1

12/7/12 1:46 PM

REAL. Aiken Regional Medical Centers (ARMC) is a 245-bed acute care hospital that serves Aiken and its surrounding counties. The hospital, which opened in 1917, has been at its current location since 1976.

Aiken Regional Medical Centers is owned and operated by a subsidiary of Universal Health Services, Inc. (UHS), a King of Prussia, Pennsylvania-based company that is one of the largest healthcare management companies in the nation. More than 120 physicians representing 40-plus specialties are on the medical staff at Aiken Regional Medical Centers. Ninety-two percent of the medical staff are board certified, many in multiple specialties.

QUICK FACTS: s /UR %MERGENCY $EPARTMENT TREATS OVER PEOPLE EACH YEAR s 4HE 7OMEN S ,IFE#ARE #ENTER DELIVERS OVER BABIES EVERY YEAR s -ORE THAN SURGICAL PROCEDURES ARE PERFORMED EACH YEAR s !LL PATIENT ROOMS ARE PRIVATE EXCEPT !URORA 0AVILION s 7E ARE CONSISTENTLY ONE OF THE TOP RANKED HOSPITALS IN THE NATION FOR QUALITY MEASURES IN HEART attack and pnuemonia care. s 7E ARE RECOGNIZED BY 3OUTH #AROLINA %MERGENCY -ANAGEMENT AS HAVING THE )NCIDENT Command System in the state. s 7E ARE RECOGNIZED BY 4HE *OINT #OMMISSION AS HAVING ONE OF THE BEST EMERGENCY management programs in the United States. s 7E HAVE THE ONLY FREE COMPREHENSIVE WOMEN S HEALTHCARE INITIATIVE ˆ 7OMEN %NLIGHTENED FOR "ETTER (EALTH

REAL.

3HUVRQDO

H E A LT H

CARE.

Get to know the Family.

Aiken Regional

20

Just open the

page.

19 1 118

11

302

78 78

4 78

118

302

302

19

Request A Free Hospital Brochure A free brochure is available with more information on our service LINES 2EQUEST ONE BY CALLING OR VISITING www.aikenregional.com.

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.

Welcome Aiken FC gatefold.indd 2

3HUVRQDO

H E A LT H C A R E .

Find it from some of the most respected physicians in the area, right here at Aiken Regional.

ALLERGY Matthew Clark, MD 279-7666 Gregory H. Esselman, MD 649-0003 Anthony E. Harris, MD 648-7897 CARDIAC SURGERY Thomas P. Paxton, MD 641-4874 L. Dieter Voegele, MD 641-4874 CARDIOLOGY Ansermo L. Arthur, MD 641-4874 David W. Cundey, MD 641-4874 Gregory L. Eaves, MD 641-4874 Weems Pennington, III, MD 641-4874 Idris S. Sharaf, MD 641-4874 COLON AND RECTAL SURGERY David H. Gibbs, MD 648-1171 Edward J. Jakubs Jr., MD 648-1171 Virginia B. Winburn, MD 648-1171 DERMATOLOGY Richard S. Chesser, MD 641-0049 John R. Cook, MD 644-8900 Margaret H. Fitch, MD 649-3909 ENDOCRINOLOGY R. Bauer Vaughters, MD 648-3130 FAMILY PRACTICE James L. Bland, MD, JD 641-1404 Adam Bruckner, DO Coming soon Mae Jean Englee, MD 663-9224 Dean T. Koukos, DO 259-5762 Ann M. Kulik, MD 648-8804 Leopoldo M. Muniz, MD 642-3505 Howard G. Royal Jr., MD 649-6941 Roland Saavedra, MD 649-7266 Henry S. Tam, MD 648-4224 F. Michael Vasovski, DO 649-4446 Ray B. Vaughters Jr., MD 649-2501 David Zimmerman, MD 649-6941 GASTROENTEROLOGY Ayaz Chaudhary, MD 226-0073 David S. Keisler Jr., MD 648-7888 Afsar M. Waraich, MD 649-4699 GERIATRICS Raymond D. Hesse, MD 648-7888

HEMATOLOGY Sitki M. Ergul, MD 641-7850 T. Mark Meyer, MD 648-7888 INFECTIOUS DISEASES Gerald Gordon, MD 649-5300 INTERNAL MEDICINE William T. Besson, III, MD 648-7888 Marc H. Brickman, DO 648-7774 Alyssa M. Degnan, DO 649-5300 Gerald Gordon, MD 649-5300 Asif Hashmi, MD 644-1027 Raymond D. Hesse, MD 648-7888 David S. Keisler Jr., MD 648-7888 Thomas McCullough, MD 648-7888 T. Mark Meyer, MD 648-7888 Frank J. Mondschein, MD 649-5300 Randy D. Watson, MD 648-7818 Danijela S. Zotovic, MD, PhD 648-7888 NEPHROLOGY Sindhu Garg, MD 648-0718 Devesh R. Patel, MD 706-722-6900 Douglas A. Stahura, DO 648-0718 NEUROLOGY Richard A. Eisenberg, MD 642-6500 Melvyn L. Haas, MD 642-6500 Khaled F. Kamel, MD 642-6500 Michelle Lyon, MD 644-4264 NEUROSURGERY James D. Dillon, MD 226-0130 NURSE PRACTITIONER Kristy Haddock, FNP 648-7774 OBSTETRICS/GYNECOLOGY Cindy G. Besson, MD (Gynecology only) 648-0803 James F. Boehner, MD 649-7535 Robert D. Boone, MD 649-7535 Gasnel E. Bryan, MD 648-0874 Brandon L. Daniels, MD 226-0526 Lloyd B. Daniels, MD 649-4117 Judith L.B. Hoover, MD 649-7746 Jessica Keller, DO 649-7535 Oletha R. Minto, MD 649-7535

ONCOLOGY Mitchell Berger, MD 226-0104 Sitki M. Ergul, MD 641-7850 Ahmad N. Gill, MD 641-7850 T. Mark Meyer, MD 648-7888 Stephen Shlaer, MD 226-0104 Donald Townsend, MD 226-0104 OPHTHALMOLOGY R. Lee Grantham, MD 642-1000 Nini S. Patheja, MD 642-6060 Daniel J. Smith, MD 642-6060 Enoch N. Tsai, MD 649-7991 ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY David S. Hudson, DMD 649-1177 ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY Ty W. Carter, MD 649-0563 Douglas E. Holford, MD 649-0563 R. Vaughan Massie, MD 649-0563 Clark D. Moore, MD 649-0563 Timothy J. Shannon, MD 649-0563 OTOLARYNGOLOGY Gregory H. Esselman, MD 649-0003 Anthony E. Harris, MD 648-7897 PAIN MANAGEMENT Russell Daniel, MD 649-0563 William E. Durrett Jr., MD 642-6500 PEDIATRICS Alice Caldwell, MD 641-KIDS (5437) Jonathan C. Collins, MD 642-9204 Susan M. Goldberg, MD 641-KIDS (5437) Daniel Heine, MD 641-KIDS (5437) Timothy R. Kinsey, MD 641-KIDS (5437) Jose Luis, MD 649-0578 Paula A. Luther, MD 642-9204 John B. Tiffany, MD 642-9204

PLASTIC/ RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY Dean A. Page, MD 642-0277 PODIATRY George Sich, III, DPM 648-6988 Mackie J. Walker, DPM 649-3668 PSYCHIATRY John A. Allen, MD 642-3801 Merry A. DeLeon, MD 641-5906 Jaya Merugu, MD 641-5906 David A. Steiner, MD 642-3801 PULMONOLOGY/ CRITICAL CARE Frank J. Mondschein, MD 649-5300 Nicholas J. Sanito, DO 643-1090 Miroslav B. Zotovic, MD 643-1090 RADIATION ONCOLOGY Byron Dasher, MD 641-7850 Mark P. Ezekiel, MD 641-7850 Jed Howington, MD 641-7850 Jerry Howington, MD 641-7850 John Stewart, MD 641-7850 SURGERY A. Jill Buchanan, MD 648-1318 Frank Y. Chase, MD 648-1318 Wayne T. Frei, MD 648-1318 Robert C. Terry, MD 648-1318 THORACIC AND VASCULAR SURGERY Thomas P. Paxton, MD 641-4874 L. Dieter Voegele, MD 641-4874 UROLOGY Jonathan H. Anderson, MD 649-3903 Richard P. von Buedingen, MD 648-7815 WOUND CARE/HBO THERAPY James L. Hagan, MD 643-2090 Jack L. Ratliff, MD 643-2090

HOSPITAL-BASED PHYSICIANS ANESTHESIOLOGY Robert P. Cassingham, MD Stewart Perlman, MD Benjamin S. Ulmer Jr., MD EMERGENCY MEDICINE Steven Battle, DO Michelle Bens, MD Anthony Bostick, MD Aaron Garrett, DO David Hatmaker, MD, JD Nathan Miller, MD James Mock, MD Adam Nofziger, MD HOSPITALIST Rajwinder Manhiani, MD Lincoln McGinnis, MD Lacey McNeely, MD Chioma V. Udogu, MD INDUSTRY HEALTH Gaines L. Entrekin, MD OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE Don Pennington, MD, Cardiology PATHOLOGY Alan D. Pierce, MD Trent D. Trzpuc, MD Robert L. Williams, MD RADIOLOGY Alfonso Gay, MD Ronald P. Robinson, MD Robert F. Searles, DO Anthony L. Toomer, MD

To find a physician, call Aiken Regional Medical Centers’ free Direct DoctorsSMPlus physician referral line at 1-800-882-7445

Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.

12/7/12 1:46 PM

REAL. Aiken Regional Medical Centers (ARMC) is a 245-bed acute care hospital that serves Aiken and its surrounding counties. The hospital, which opened in 1917, has been at its current location since 1976.

Aiken Regional Medical Centers is owned and operated by a subsidiary of Universal Health Services, Inc. (UHS), a King of Prussia, Pennsylvania-based company that is one of the largest healthcare management companies in the nation. More than 120 physicians representing 40-plus specialties are on the medical staff at Aiken Regional Medical Centers. Ninety-two percent of the medical staff are board certified, many in multiple specialties.

QUICK FACTS: s /UR %MERGENCY $EPARTMENT TREATS OVER PEOPLE EACH YEAR s 4HE 7OMEN S ,IFE#ARE #ENTER DELIVERS OVER BABIES EVERY YEAR s -ORE THAN SURGICAL PROCEDURES ARE PERFORMED EACH YEAR s !LL PATIENT ROOMS ARE PRIVATE EXCEPT !URORA 0AVILION s 7E ARE CONSISTENTLY ONE OF THE TOP RANKED HOSPITALS IN THE NATION FOR QUALITY MEASURES IN HEART attack and pnuemonia care. s 7E ARE RECOGNIZED BY 3OUTH #AROLINA %MERGENCY -ANAGEMENT AS HAVING THE )NCIDENT Command System in the state. s 7E ARE RECOGNIZED BY 4HE *OINT #OMMISSION AS HAVING ONE OF THE BEST EMERGENCY management programs in the United States. s 7E HAVE THE ONLY FREE COMPREHENSIVE WOMEN S HEALTHCARE INITIATIVE ˆ 7OMEN %NLIGHTENED FOR "ETTER (EALTH

REAL.

3HUVRQDO

H E A LT H

CARE.

Get to know the Family.

Aiken Regional

20

Just open the

page.

19 1 118

11

302

78 78

4 78

118

302

302

19

Request A Free Hospital Brochure A free brochure is available with more information on our service LINES 2EQUEST ONE BY CALLING OR VISITING www.aikenregional.com.

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.

Welcome Aiken FC gatefold.indd 2

3HUVRQDO

H E A LT H C A R E .

Find it from some of the most respected physicians in the area, right here at Aiken Regional.

ALLERGY Matthew Clark, MD 279-7666 Gregory H. Esselman, MD 649-0003 Anthony E. Harris, MD 648-7897 CARDIAC SURGERY Thomas P. Paxton, MD 641-4874 L. Dieter Voegele, MD 641-4874 CARDIOLOGY Ansermo L. Arthur, MD 641-4874 David W. Cundey, MD 641-4874 Gregory L. Eaves, MD 641-4874 Weems Pennington, III, MD 641-4874 Idris S. Sharaf, MD 641-4874 COLON AND RECTAL SURGERY David H. Gibbs, MD 648-1171 Edward J. Jakubs Jr., MD 648-1171 Virginia B. Winburn, MD 648-1171 DERMATOLOGY Richard S. Chesser, MD 641-0049 John R. Cook, MD 644-8900 Margaret H. Fitch, MD 649-3909 ENDOCRINOLOGY R. Bauer Vaughters, MD 648-3130 FAMILY PRACTICE James L. Bland, MD, JD 641-1404 Adam Bruckner, DO Coming soon Mae Jean Englee, MD 663-9224 Dean T. Koukos, DO 259-5762 Ann M. Kulik, MD 648-8804 Leopoldo M. Muniz, MD 642-3505 Howard G. Royal Jr., MD 649-6941 Roland Saavedra, MD 649-7266 Henry S. Tam, MD 648-4224 F. Michael Vasovski, DO 649-4446 Ray B. Vaughters Jr., MD 649-2501 David Zimmerman, MD 649-6941 GASTROENTEROLOGY Ayaz Chaudhary, MD 226-0073 David S. Keisler Jr., MD 648-7888 Afsar M. Waraich, MD 649-4699 GERIATRICS Raymond D. Hesse, MD 648-7888

HEMATOLOGY Sitki M. Ergul, MD 641-7850 T. Mark Meyer, MD 648-7888 INFECTIOUS DISEASES Gerald Gordon, MD 649-5300 INTERNAL MEDICINE William T. Besson, III, MD 648-7888 Marc H. Brickman, DO 648-7774 Alyssa M. Degnan, DO 649-5300 Gerald Gordon, MD 649-5300 Asif Hashmi, MD 644-1027 Raymond D. Hesse, MD 648-7888 David S. Keisler Jr., MD 648-7888 Thomas McCullough, MD 648-7888 T. Mark Meyer, MD 648-7888 Frank J. Mondschein, MD 649-5300 Randy D. Watson, MD 648-7818 Danijela S. Zotovic, MD, PhD 648-7888 NEPHROLOGY Sindhu Garg, MD 648-0718 Devesh R. Patel, MD 706-722-6900 Douglas A. Stahura, DO 648-0718 NEUROLOGY Richard A. Eisenberg, MD 642-6500 Melvyn L. Haas, MD 642-6500 Khaled F. Kamel, MD 642-6500 Michelle Lyon, MD 644-4264 NEUROSURGERY James D. Dillon, MD 226-0130 NURSE PRACTITIONER Kristy Haddock, FNP 648-7774 OBSTETRICS/GYNECOLOGY Cindy G. Besson, MD (Gynecology only) 648-0803 James F. Boehner, MD 649-7535 Robert D. Boone, MD 649-7535 Gasnel E. Bryan, MD 648-0874 Brandon L. Daniels, MD 226-0526 Lloyd B. Daniels, MD 649-4117 Judith L.B. Hoover, MD 649-7746 Jessica Keller, DO 649-7535 Oletha R. Minto, MD 649-7535

ONCOLOGY Mitchell Berger, MD 226-0104 Sitki M. Ergul, MD 641-7850 Ahmad N. Gill, MD 641-7850 T. Mark Meyer, MD 648-7888 Stephen Shlaer, MD 226-0104 Donald Townsend, MD 226-0104 OPHTHALMOLOGY R. Lee Grantham, MD 642-1000 Nini S. Patheja, MD 642-6060 Daniel J. Smith, MD 642-6060 Enoch N. Tsai, MD 649-7991 ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY David S. Hudson, DMD 649-1177 ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY Ty W. Carter, MD 649-0563 Douglas E. Holford, MD 649-0563 R. Vaughan Massie, MD 649-0563 Clark D. Moore, MD 649-0563 Timothy J. Shannon, MD 649-0563 OTOLARYNGOLOGY Gregory H. Esselman, MD 649-0003 Anthony E. Harris, MD 648-7897 PAIN MANAGEMENT Russell Daniel, MD 649-0563 William E. Durrett Jr., MD 642-6500 PEDIATRICS Alice Caldwell, MD 641-KIDS (5437) Jonathan C. Collins, MD 642-9204 Susan M. Goldberg, MD 641-KIDS (5437) Daniel Heine, MD 641-KIDS (5437) Timothy R. Kinsey, MD 641-KIDS (5437) Jose Luis, MD 649-0578 Paula A. Luther, MD 642-9204 John B. Tiffany, MD 642-9204

PLASTIC/ RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY Dean A. Page, MD 642-0277 PODIATRY George Sich, III, DPM 648-6988 Mackie J. Walker, DPM 649-3668 PSYCHIATRY John A. Allen, MD 642-3801 Merry A. DeLeon, MD 641-5906 Jaya Merugu, MD 641-5906 David A. Steiner, MD 642-3801 PULMONOLOGY/ CRITICAL CARE Frank J. Mondschein, MD 649-5300 Nicholas J. Sanito, DO 643-1090 Miroslav B. Zotovic, MD 643-1090 RADIATION ONCOLOGY Byron Dasher, MD 641-7850 Mark P. Ezekiel, MD 641-7850 Jed Howington, MD 641-7850 Jerry Howington, MD 641-7850 John Stewart, MD 641-7850 SURGERY A. Jill Buchanan, MD 648-1318 Frank Y. Chase, MD 648-1318 Wayne T. Frei, MD 648-1318 Robert C. Terry, MD 648-1318 THORACIC AND VASCULAR SURGERY Thomas P. Paxton, MD 641-4874 L. Dieter Voegele, MD 641-4874 UROLOGY Jonathan H. Anderson, MD 649-3903 Richard P. von Buedingen, MD 648-7815 WOUND CARE/HBO THERAPY James L. Hagan, MD 643-2090 Jack L. Ratliff, MD 643-2090

HOSPITAL-BASED PHYSICIANS ANESTHESIOLOGY Robert P. Cassingham, MD Stewart Perlman, MD Benjamin S. Ulmer Jr., MD EMERGENCY MEDICINE Steven Battle, DO Michelle Bens, MD Anthony Bostick, MD Aaron Garrett, DO David Hatmaker, MD, JD Nathan Miller, MD James Mock, MD Adam Nofziger, MD HOSPITALIST Rajwinder Manhiani, MD Lincoln McGinnis, MD Lacey McNeely, MD Chioma V. Udogu, MD INDUSTRY HEALTH Gaines L. Entrekin, MD OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE Don Pennington, MD, Cardiology PATHOLOGY Alan D. Pierce, MD Trent D. Trzpuc, MD Robert L. Williams, MD RADIOLOGY Alfonso Gay, MD Ronald P. Robinson, MD Robert F. Searles, DO Anthony L. Toomer, MD

To find a physician, call Aiken Regional Medical Centers’ free Direct DoctorsSMPlus physician referral line at 1-800-882-7445

Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.

12/7/12 1:46 PM

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 1

12/7/12 1:50 PM

Home built by Dunbar Builders, Inc.

Aiken builders know homes are

Whether you’re buying a new home or renovating an existing one, clean burning natural gas offers exceptional comfort, convenience and energy efficiency year round.

Natural gas appliances are not just more energy efficient, they’re more economical to operate and durable compared to electric models. A natural gas furnace warms up a home faster than an electric heat pump, delivering heat up to 25 degrees warmer.

With a natural gas water heater, you’ll have plenty of hot water whenever you need it, even when the power is out. Natural gas also makes cooking a true pleasure, providing instant heat and precise temperature control.

If you want energy efficiency, while enjoying all the comforts of home, ask for natural gas. To learn more, call 1-866-523-8242 or visit sceg.com/value.

VISIT THESE FINE NATURAL GAS COMMUNITIES: Bill Beazley Homes www.billbeazleyhomes.com

Blue Ribbon Builders www.blueribbonusa.com

Keystone Homes www.buildkeystone.com

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 2

Crown Communities www.crownga.com

Pierwood Construction www.pierwood.com

JR Homes www.jrhomes.net

Winchester Homes www.aikennewhomes.com

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2013 Welcome Aiken

Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce Physical Address 121 Richland Avenue, East Aiken, SC 29801 Mailing Address P.O. Box 892 Aiken, SC 29802 Phone: (803) 641-1111 Fax: (803) 641-4174 www.aikenchamber.net

Published by The Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce Designed by

www.facebook.com/bobduranddesign

Copyright 2013 by the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieve system, without the express written permission of the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce.

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© Bob Durand Jr.

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Contents F E A T U RES

12

manufacturing matters in aiken county

by Cynthia Delaney

The strength of Aiken County lies within its manufacturing base where strong public and private partnerships, along with a talented workforce, create an environment for success.

The Aiken area is home to some of the nation’s largest industries. Some have recently relocated to Aiken County while others have expanded significantly over the years, including Kimberly-Clark, Owens Corning, Pactiv, and one company that earned the distinction of providing the single largest capital investment in South Carolina’s history.

18

Aiken’s sports venues steeped in history

by John Boyette

Thomas Hitchcock and William C. Whitney, two of the influential men who helped form Aiken’s Winter Colony, left behind an impressive legacy, including a collection of sports venues that are still in use today more than a century later. If these venues – the Palmetto Golf Club, Aiken Tennis Club, Whitney polo field, and Aiken Golf Club – could talk, they would tell tales of famous, and some rather interesting, characters who set foot on their pristine “carpets.” The venues evoke memories of a bygone era when recreational pursuits were the topic of the day.

d e pa r tm e n t s 44 Housing Options

60 Education

46 Quality of Life

62 Retirement

52 Health Care

64 Relocation Information

56 Economy & Employment

69 Business Directory

22 Corporate Profiles

o n t h e co v e r Tognum America Inc. a division of the German based Tognum Group, produces the Series 2000 and the Series 4000 diesel engine in Aiken County. The engines are used in ships, industrial equipment, and the oil and gas industry. Shown on the cover is the Series 4000 diesel engine.

Read more about Tognum America in the “Manufacturing Matters in Aiken County” article beginning on page 12.

co ver p h o t o c o u rt e s y To g n u m A me ri c a I n c .

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Manufacturing matters in Aiken County

By Cynthia Delaney

The strength of Aiken County lies within its manufacturing base where strong public and private partnerships, along with a talented workforce, create an environment for success.

T

he Aiken area is home to some of the nation’s largest industries. Some have recently relocated to Aiken County while others have expanded significantly over the years, including Kimberly-Clark, Owens Corning, Pactiv, and one company that has earned the distinction of providing the single largest capital investment in South Carolina’s history.

The accolade goes to Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations (BATO), a subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation. On September 22, 2011, BATO announced it would invest $1.2 billion in Aiken County and create a total of more than 850 jobs. This impressive figure includes the construction of a new off-road radial tire plant for the production of large and ultra-large tires, and further expansion of the company’s Aiken County passenger/light truck tire plant.

The 2011 announcement also marked Bridgestone Corporation’s largest single investment in the U.S. manufacturing market.

Previously, large and ultra-large off-road radial tires had been produced by Bridgestone exclusively in Japan.

The new 1.5 million-square-foot off-road radial tire manufacturing facility is currently under construction on a greenfield site in Aiken County’s Sage Mill Industrial Park. The large and ultra-large tires that will be produced there are used on quarry

and mine hauling trucks. The tires weigh 5.5 tons each, support 22,000 pounds and stand almost 1.5 stories tall.

In addition to the new plant, a 474,000-square-foot expansion of Bridgestone’s existing passenger and light truck tire plant in Aiken County is underway.

When fully completed, these projects will total a $1.2 billion investment and will increase Bridgestone’s Aiken County workforce by more than the aforementioned 850 jobs.

The epic tale of Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations’ working relationship with Aiken County began in 1998, when Bridgestone/Firestone, at the time, announced it would build a new passenger and light truck manufacturing facility in Aiken County, South Carolina. The new plant represented about a $635 million investment.

Construction of the facility moved quickly, and one year later in 1999 the local plant produced its first test tire.

Now, 14 years later, Bridgestone’s presence continues to strongly impact Aiken County’s economy and to strengthen the importance of the area’s manufacturing base.

“Bridgestone’s Aiken County facility is held up as the flagship for all other Bridgestone North American facilities to emulate, and with good reason,” says Will Williams, director of the Economic Development Partnership (EDP).

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“In 1997 when the company first selected our county for the passenger tire facility, the capital investment was, at the time, the single largest investment in South Carolina’s history. The September 2011 announcement of $1.2 billion was once again the single largest investment in the state’s history, and it was also Bridgestone’s single largest capital investment at one time in North America,” Williams says.

According to Williams, 85 percent of all new investment and job creation comes from existing industry. “Taking care of our existing industry is just as important as attracting new industry,” Williams says.

When MTU Detroit Diesel, a division of the German based Tognum Group, announced it was relocating production of its Series 2000 and 4000 diesel engines from Detroit, Michigan to Aiken County, the company promised to invest $35 million and to create 250 new jobs over four years.

The announcement was made March 5, 2010, and production of the engines began in October 2010. In less than two years, the company, now Tognum America, Inc., met both its investment and new jobs pledge to the community – and announced an expansion.

The announcement, made March 21, 2012, promised a $40 million investment and another 20 new jobs. The expansion includes two new research and development buildings that will house engine test equipment, as well as additional visitor and employee parking areas. Completion is slated for December 2012.

Tognum America’s Series 2000 and 4000 diesel engines are used in ships, industrial equipment, and the oil and gas industry.

Timeline August 26, 1997 – Bridgestone Americas, Inc. formally announces the company will spend $435 million on a plant in Aiken County that will cover 1.5 million square feet, employ up to 800 workers, and produce 25,000 tires a day.

1998 – Construction of the Aiken County facility begins.

1999 - The facility builds its first test tire.

2003 – The Bridgestone Aiken County facility is selected as one of four manufacturers of the year by the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce and is named one of the 10 best manufacturing facilities by Industry Week magazine, the leading manufacturing management publication.

2005 – Bridgestone’s Aiken County facility is named “Large Business of the Year” by the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce.

About Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations: Nashville, Tenn.-based Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations (BATO) is a business unit of Bridgestone Americas, Inc., whose parent company, Bridgestone Corporation, is the world’s largest tire and rubber company. BATO develops, manufactures and markets Bridgestone, Firestone and associate brand tires.

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2006 – The Aiken County facility produces its 50-millionth tire.

2009 – The Aiken County facility earns LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED is awarded internationally to buildings for excellent energy and water efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and resource stewardship. It is rarely awarded to existing manufacturing sites.

About Bridgestone Corporation: Bridgestone Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, is the world’s largest tire and rubber company. In addition to tires for use in a wide variety of applications, it also manufactures a broad range of diversified products, which include industrial rubber and chemical products and sporting goods. Its products are sold in over 150 nations and territories around the world.

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“Our continued growth is a testament to the hard work of our employees and the support we have received from the community,” says Joerg Klisch, the director of operations for Tognum America. “The expansion of our operations here at the Aiken facility will be a great benefit to our company, our customers, and our community for years to come.”

EDP Director Williams sums up why manufacturing matters and why it continues to grow in Aiken County. “Manufacturing has been important to Aiken County since William Gregg started the Graniteville Company textile operations in the mid1800s. Over the years, manufacturing has remained an integral part of the health of Aiken County. Our county is attractive to manufacturers because of our central location along Interstate 20, an outstanding workforce eager to expand their knowledge, and a county government that works closely with industry to ensure their success.”

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Woodside Plantation Country Club offers the finest in amenities including: t 45 holes of championship golf t 10 tournament-class tennis courts July 20, 2011 – Bridgestone announces an additional $135 million investment in the Aiken County plant, creating 122 full-time and contractor positions and expanding the facility by 266,000 square feet. When the expansion is completed, the plant will begin producing an additional 4,750 passenger and light truck tires per day beginning in the second quarter of 2013.

September 21, 2011 – Bridgestone announces “Phase II” of the expansion, an additional 474,000-square-foot expansion of the existing passenger and light truck tire plant in Aiken County. It will cost $200 million and add 474,000 square feet of production capacity, in which the company will increase daily production by 8,000 tires, bringing the total passenger and light truck tire capacity for the facility expansions to 12,750 tires per day.

September 21, 2011 – Bridgestone announces plans to build a 1.5 millionsquare-foot facility in Aiken County to produce off-road tires. The new facility and the Phase II expansion at the current facility total a $1.2 billion investment, the largest single initial capital investment in the state’s history. The two projects are expected to create more than 850 new jobs.

2012 – The Aiken County facility celebrates production of its 100-millionth tire.

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Aiken County

meets workforce needs

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orkforce development is a top priority in Aiken County, where “growing our own” has become synonymous with education and training at all levels. From K through 12 to training programs, apprenticeships, 2-year and 4-year college degrees and beyond, Aiken County strives to prepare a viable workforce ready for the future right here in its own “backyard.”

“Our programs are changing with the growing needs of the community,” said Aiken Technical College President Dr. Susan Winsor. “Our priority is to keep up with the needs of business and industry and prepare our citizens to fill well-paying jobs, as well as to reduce the need for employers to look outside our area to hire a highly-skilled workforce.”

Aiken Technical College (ATC) and the University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA) are instrumental in preparing students for the business and technical needs of local employers. In addition, their Continuing Education programs support new technological needs brought on by an ever changing market.

ATC plays a key role in attracting large manufacturing companies to the area by partnering with industry. Working closely with the manufacturing industry allows for a mutually beneficial alignment between employers’ needs and citizens’ training and readiness to fill available jobs.

Through hands-on training, both in the classroom and in required internships, or through on-the-job-training, students have a chance to take their training straight to the workplace, working directly with large companies that have a local presence, like Tognum America, Inc. and Bridgestone Americas.

The Aiken County Career and Technology Center through the Aiken County Public School System begins training students for manufacturing and other industry-related careers in high school.

Students can choose to pursue a skill set in several concentrations, including welding, computer technology, electricity, and computer aided drafting. Upon graduation, they are prepared to go directly into the workforce or to pursue further education and training at Aiken Technical College or other school.

Last year was a banner year for Career and Technical Education, according to Aiken County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Everitt. “With the addition of a 10th grade introductory program about career choices, participation at the Aiken County Career and Technology Center increased by 250 students. The first class of the Pre-Engineering Academy graduated and headed off to college with as many as 26 hours of college credit toward an engineering degree,” Dr. Everitt said.

Local diesel engine manufacturer, Tognum America, was instrumental in launching an apprenticeship program in Aiken County last year. The program, which was produced in partnership with the Aiken County School System, the Aiken County Career and Technology Center, and Aiken Technical College, will help high school juniors and seniors get a head start on a career in industrial manufacturing and be ready to enter the workforce upon graduation.

The apprenticeship program, which combines high school education, classroom technical training and hands-on learning at the local Tognum plant, is the first of its kind for high school students in South Carolina.

The program drew national attention, and representatives from the various partners were invited to present the apprenticeship model at a roundtable discussion at the White House.

“Our invitation to the White House was a great opportunity for us to raise awareness of the training gap that exists for many high school graduates in America,” said Joerg Klisch, vice president of Tognum’s North America operations. “Our meeting enabled us to encourage other companies to consider using the ideas we presented. We believe the new program will help our community and our businesses grow together,” Klisch said.

“We look forward to following the apprenticeship program with Tognum and hope to see a school and workplace-based model spread to other local businesses and industry,” Dr. Everitt said.

photo courtesy Aiken Technical College

Attracting and wooing large manufacturing companies and other industry is big business in and of itself. Communities in the United States and around the world compete for a piece of the economic pie while constantly bolstering their local attributes. In addition to geographic location, access to transportation, and friendly governmental agencies, manufacturing companies look for a quality workforce that is trained and ready for the workplace.

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Aiken’s sports venues steeped in history

By John Boyette Imagine a place where hundreds of acres of prime real estate were set aside for recreational pursuits. Imagine a place where the most powerful families in the United States gathered each winter to escape the harsh climate of the Northeast. And imagine a place that would attract some of the most famous athletes and entertainers on a regular basis. Actually, no imagination is required. Aiken, at the turn of the 20th century, was exactly such a place. And it remained that way for decades.

“Before Flagler opened up Florida with the railroad, this was king,” said Elliott Levy, executive director of the Aiken County Historical Museum. “You wanted to be here. Not because it’s a shorefront property, not because it’s a cool mountain breeze, it’s because the money and power started here.”

Thomas Hitchcock and William C. Whitney, two of the influential men who helped form Aiken’s Winter Colony, left behind quite a legacy, including a collection of sports venues that are still in use today more than a century later.

The Whitney Trust now runs Palmetto Golf Club, the Aiken Tennis Club and Whitney polo field. Aiken Golf Club is owned by the McNair family. Each venue evokes memories of a bygone era but is still enjoyed by the current generation of Aikenites.

Where else could you see Fred Astaire dance down the steps of a golf hole, see the inspiration for a Fitzgerald character playing polo, watch some of the world’s best court tennis players, or be in the company of golf’s all-time greats?

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AIKEN GOLF CLUB The golf course celebrated its centennial in May 2012 with a birthday party, complete with cake, to mark the milestone.

Given some of the obstacles Aiken Golf Club has overcome, the celebration was warranted.

Like Aiken’s other iconic sports sites, the public golf course traces its roots back to the Winter Colony. The Highland Park Hotel and the Park-in-the-Pines Hotel were each popular tourist destinations, and a four-hole layout was built in the early 1900s for the visitors. The original Highland Park Hotel burned in 1898, but it was rebuilt in 1912 and the course expanded to 11 holes. The Park-in-the-Pines also burned down in 1913.

The club’s first golf pro, John R. Inglis, expanded the layout to 18 holes, and in 1916 the course made history as the first one to offer a separate set of tees for female golfers.

Inglis also helped create a women’s tournament that was played from 1937-39. The event attracted such top names as Patty Berg, who won the inaugural event, and Babe Didrikson Zaharias.

In the early 1940s, dancer Fred Astaire was a frequent visitor to Aiken, and he played the course a handful of times. Current owner Jim McNair Jr. has a receipt showing Astaire paid a $4 greens fee.

Although there is no visual proof, one of the many stories about Aiken Golf Club revolves around Astaire dancing his way down the steps on the par-3 16th hole.

“If you think about it, it makes sense,” McNair said. “The original steps, you go to a little landing. Then you step down to the next landing. You’d have to time your steps and your gait.

Towards the middle you find yourself in a rhythm and you find yourself dancing.”

McNair’s father took over the golf course in 1959 and built it into a family-friendly club complete with pool and dining facilities under the name of Highland Park Country Club. In the late 1990s, the younger McNair gave the course a needed facelift by rebuilding the greens and making cosmetic changes throughout the par-70 layout. He also changed the name back to Aiken Golf Club.

Now, the course is considered an historic gem. The most recent accolade was a glowing review in Golfweek magazine and a ranking of the 13th-best place to play in South Carolina for courses that are accessible to the public.

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AIKEN TENNIS CLUB Court tennis, or “real tennis” as some prefer to call it, came to Aiken in 1898. Whitney had the current Aiken Tennis Club facility built in 1902, according to club records; the brick building is located at the corner of Newberry Street and Park Avenue.

The Aiken club is one of only 10 court tennis facilities in the U.S., and it has about 75 members.

The game began in Europe around the 12th century, and its current version with wooden rackets evolved in the 16th century.

King Henry VIII of England was just one of the sport’s notable enthusiasts.

“It’s probably one of the original racquet sports,” club member Paul Sauerborn said. “Everything else kind of spun from there.”

The game has some similarities to lawn tennis and squash but is played on a unique indoor court with its own set of rules.

One of the game’s all-time greats, Pierre Etchebaster, came to Aiken in the 1930s. While continuing his reign as world champion, Etchebaster taught the game to such players as Norty Knox and the Bostwick brothers Pete and Jimmy. Those three went on to win world titles of their own.

The Aiken club is still well represented on the international scene. Camden Riviere has risen as high as No. 2 in the world ranking and has competed for world titles in both singles and doubles.

“There aren’t that many in the world who play the sport, and to have one of the sites for court tennis makes Aiken one of those unique and special places,” said Levy, the museum director.

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PALMETTO GOLF CLUB Hitchcock and Whitney turned their attention to golf in 1892, and the result was a four-hole layout and the start of Palmetto Golf Club. By the end of the decade, the club had become an 18-hole layout and one of the top places to play in the United States.

Famed British player Harry Vardon, who won six British Open titles in his career, toured the United States in 1900. One of his stops was at Palmetto. But Vardon, according to general manager Tom Moore, wasn’t welcome. “He wasn’t treated very well in Aiken,” said Moore, who said the chain-smoking Vardon was allowed to smoke on the golf course. “He being a golf professional, they wouldn’t let him in the clubhouse.”

Bobby Jones, the top amateur in golf and co-founder of Augusta National Golf Club, also played Palmetto. Several Palmetto members were among those who helped found Augusta National.

Alister MacKenzie, who designed Augusta National with the help of Jones, came to Palmetto in the early 1930s and converted the sand greens to grass.

Palmetto’s closest association to the Masters and the top players in the game came just after World War II. From 1945-53, the Devereux Milburn Pro-Am attracted such names as Ben Hogan, Sam Snead and Byron Nelson. Played just before the Masters, the PGA of America guaranteed the top 40 money winners and a rich purse.

“They could win more money here if they won the pro-am than they could in any golf tournament in America,” Moore said.

No history of Palmetto would be complete without mentioning club member Bobby Knowles, the great-grandson of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The career amateur dominated club events, but he also was accomplished outside of Aiken. He played in the Masters twice, represented his country on the Walker Cup team and won dozens of tournaments, most notably the French Amateur.

WHITNEY FIELD Aiken has experienced a renaissance as a polo destination in the last decade. New venues, high-goal tournaments and top players have all contributed to the revival. None of that would have been possible, most likely, if not for the city’s early polo fields, including Whitney Field.

Polo was introduced to America in the 1870s, and Hitchcock fell in love with the sport as a teen. He established the field in the sandy soil in the heart of what is now the city’s equestrian district, and the first Aiken match took place in March 1882. The sport’s been played there every year since, making Whitney Field the oldest in the United States to see continuous use.

Whitney purchased the field in the 1890s and built a racetrack around it for his thoroughbreds. He deeded it to the trust that bears his name with the stipulation that it be used for polo.

Aiken became a mecca for polo players, and in the 1920s and 1930s it was common to have the best players in the world compete at Whitney. No one excelled at the sport more than Hitchcock’s son, Tommy.

“Tommy could drive on his horse, Tobiano, his favorite, riding 35 mph and whack a polo ball 95 mph at 150 yards with accuracy,” said Levy, the museum director. “You don’t do that. That’s a football field and a half with accuracy. He would dominate the game.”

Young Hitchcock, who was the inspiration for at least two of novelist F. Scott Fitzgerald’s characters, was also an accomplished pilot.

Thanks to the Hitchcocks, a who’s who of top polo players who competed in Aiken exists today. “This is where polo really jumped and developed into a sport that became the place of champions,” Levy said. “Whitney Field was where they played. The real games of polo, the best players, played right here.”

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Corporate Profiles

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AgSouth Farm Credit

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gSouth Farm Credit is part of the Farm Credit System, a nationwide network of agricultural and rural lending cooperatives founded by farmers in 1916. Our mission is to provide sound and dependable credit to farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness – a mission we’ve fulfilled for nearly a century.

AgSouth Farm Credit helps maintain and improve the quality of life for farmers and rural Americans by providing competitive loans and expert financial services. We pride ourselves on building lasting partnerships with our customers.

Because we’re a cooperative, our customers are our owners. We operate for the benefit of our customers and share our profits with them through our Patronage Refund Program. For years, this program has reduced the cost of borrowing for our customers, and we can do it for you, too.

Whether you farm full-time or part-time, or just want a place in the country, the experienced professionals at AgSouth Farm Credit can provide financing to fit your needs. www.agsouthfc.com (803) 648-6818 951 East Pine Log Rd, Aiken , SC 29803

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FOR YOUR FARM: • Real estate • Pasture, crop, and timberland • Grove and orchard development • Poultry and livestock facilities • Barns, stables, sheds, and grain bins • Farm residences • Operating expenses • Buying or leasing machinery, equipment, vehicles, and buildings

FOR YOUR HOME AND LIFE IN THE COUNTRY • Lots • Country homes • Buying, building, or refinancing • Specializing in homes with acreage • Remodeling and home improvements • Hunting tracts • Recreational property • Cattle, horses, and other livestock • Livestock and utility trailers FOR YOUR AGRIBUSINESS • Nurseries and greenhouses • Poultry and livestock operations • Gins and processing facilities • Timber and sawmill operations • Farm-related businesses

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Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce

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he Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business alliance serving the business interests of the area. The roots of the organization date back to 1918. Today, the 5-Star Accredited organization is one of the largest voluntary membership driven business organizations in the Aiken area.

The Chamber depends on the guidance and support of an exceptional board of directors, motivated volunteers, and a dedicated professional staff to meet its mission of creating opportunities for members to build successful businesses and to enhance the quality of life for the community.

To do this, the organization focuses on four goals:

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“We are always standing on our tiptoes, looking over the horizon toward the future,” says Jameson. “We provide direct services to our members that relate to helping them stay in business, to grow their business, and to prosper. Civically, we are developing Aiken as a better product for economic These goals are incorporated into the developers to sell our community.”

Five years ago, the Chamber leadership Chamber’s annual Program of Work, the organization’s results driven plan that en- saw two potential areas of interest looming on the horizon – one focused on the local compasses five core areas: equine industry and the other on the area’s young professionals.

1. Leadership and Impact 2. Regional Advocacy and Community Focus 3. Economic Opportunity and Market Growth 4. Business Training and Education 5. Fiscal Integrity and Operations • Building and diversifying the economy • Aiding the profitability of its members • Representing members’ interests in governmental and legislative issues • Being known as a model Chamber of Commerce

These core areas give the Chamber the ability to play a leadership role aimed at economic opportunity and regional advocacy. At the same time, the organization can focus locally as it plays a major role in facilitating an atmosphere of collaboration, especially for issues affecting the entire community.

“We are a convener of people and an advocate for ideas. We rely heavily on the brain power and know-how of our members. We collaborate broadly within the community.

A larger group is always smarter. Sometimes we lead, and sometimes we partner,” says Chamber President J. David Jameson.

One of the Aiken Chamber’s strengths lies in its ability to anticipate future needs and to seize opportunities that enhance business and the community.

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Within a year, AYP membership numbers • Release of an International Horse Park Feasibility Study – results of which are swelled beyond 200, and the organized The Chamber has been diligent in help- available for consideration by potential, young professionals were getting noticed in the community. ing to grow and preserve Aiken County’s private investors.

In 2010, the group completed a strategic revered 140+-year-old equine industry. plan with a mission to provide an environIn 2008, the organization commissioned Aiken Young ment for young, career-minded individua study that revealed the local industry’s Professionals (AYP) als to meet and develop both socially and impact was nearly $72 million a year. What followed over the next four years included Five years ago, the Chamber launched professionally. The plan features five bold the: the Young Professionals Initiative, a cam- steps with a vision that focuses on three arpaign aimed at attracting residents be- eas – networking, community service, and tween the ages of 22 and 39 in order to il- educational events designed to nurture fu• Creation of an Equine Support Council lustrate that Aiken is not only a nationally ture leaders of the greater Aiken area. to grow and preserve the industry Today, AYP has a steering committee renowned community for retirees, but it is • Release of a white paper outlining a also a “Southern Dream Town” with ample with officers elected annually, and the vision for an International Horse Park • Creation of the Greater Aiken Integrated opportunities for business and pleasure for group remains focused on following their strategic plan to make a positive difference younger generations.

Trails (GAIT) Foundation in collaborain the community. tion with Aiken County Parks, Recreation and Tourism (PRT) and the Aiken Land Conservancy (ALC) Equine Industry

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Aiken County Public Schools

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iken County Public Schools is the 5th largest school district in South Carolina, serving over 24,000 K-12 students in 41 schools. Our highly motivated and qualified faculty set high expectations for all students. Options for students include gifted and talented programs, rigorous Advanced Placement courses, and dual enrollment with local colleges. In addition to academics, students participate in extra-curricular activities in athletics, the arts, student leadership, special clubs and service learning. Our students leave well prepared for college or a career in a globally competitive world.

Aiken County is recognized across the state for our academics, curriculum, and teacher quality. Each year our district receives numerous Palmetto Gold and Silver Awards for academic excellence.

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Our schools have been recognized as Palmetto’s Finest and National Blue Ribbon schools, and district students as National Merit and Presidential Scholars. Our talented graduating class of 2012 received over $43 million in scholarships.

We are proud of our transparency in financial operations. Citizens are welcomed to take part in the budget process, attend budget work studies, and review financial information that is regularly updated on our website (http://acps.schoolfusion.us/).

With a shared vision of academic success, the Aiken County Public School District and our community continue to excel and set the achievement bar higher with every school year. We welcome you to the area and look forward to educating your children.

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Aiken Homes and Lifestyles Magazine

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iken Homes & Lifestyles is a publication celebrating the colorful warmth and historied traditions

of Aiken.

The debut issue was released Fall 2012 and featured pieces on Aikenites Wade and Sissy Brodie, the Union Street home of Tom Francoline and Lelee Brandt, local real estate agent and community leader David Stinson in addition to an events calendar and short looks at various areas within the Aiken community.

Brought to Aiken by the staff of the awardwinning Augusta Magazine, Publisher Kate Metts says the magazine aims to give the people of Aiken a lifestyle magazine that reflects the many sophisticated and interesting aspects of life in the city.

Aiken Homes & Lifestyles offers a “glimpse of Aiken,” not only for local resi-

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Some of the staff pose in front of the old Post Office. From left, Elizabeth Sisson, Sherry Foster, Mary Porter Vann, Maidi McMurtrie Thompson, Kate Metts and Adriene Thomas Goldman.

dents but for part-time dwellers and Aiken lovers who live elsewhere. Published twice yearly, the magazine is available for subscription or single copy purchase at a variety of locations around town.

If you are a business or organization seeking to reach an upscale and influential Aiken audience, an advertisement in Aiken Homes and Lifestyles Magazine would be a great investment. The magazine is designed to capture the flavor of the people and lifestyles of Aiken, S.C., one of the most unique and picturesque cities in the South.

“We look forward to serving the Aiken community for many years to come,“ Metts said. For more information about our magazine, visit our website, www.

AikenHomesandLifestyles.com or call us at 706.823.3714 or 1.800.622.6358.

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Aiken Technical College

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iken Technical College is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2012-2013. ATC educates and trains students to become part of the workforce that supports the economic growth and community development of the greater Aiken County area.

A public, open-door, two year institution, the college provides citizens opportunities for educational, economic, professional, social and personal development.

Approximately 3,000 students are enrolled in associate’s degree and certificate programs in a variety of high demand fields, and more than 217,000 students have attended the college in its history.

ATC offers more than 80 academic programs in business, education, engineering, finance, health sciences, information technology, manufacturing, marketing, nuclear, public

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safety and technology. University transfer options, as well as dual enrollment programs for high school students, are also offered.

Hands-on classroom training, as well as internships with industry partners, provides students the skills needed to be successful in the field, and then to take those skills directly to work.

Responding to a resurgence of the nuclear industry in and around Aiken, the college developed a radiation protection technology program in 2008, and a nuclear quality systems program in 2012, training students for careers in nuclear quality control and nuclear quality assurance.

Healthcare offerings remain among ATC’s most popular, with a dozen credentials in fields including nursing, medical coding, medical assisting, dental assisting, pharmacy technician, surgical technology, radiological technology and paramedic.

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City of Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum

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he loss of our original Aiken Passenger Depot mirrors the story told by communities across South Carolina. However, the story told of rebuilding this icon is a celebration of our dedication to heritage preservation that continues today in Aiken As cars became common, the use of the passenger railroad declined. After serving Aiken for decades, in 1954 the Aiken Railroad Depot was demolished. An empty lot sat just east of Aiken’s thriving downtown district for 56 years.

In 2000, a group of railroad enthusiasts and community champions identified the need to rebuild and share this important part of our Aiken history. Using the original Southern Railroad drawings, architects replicated this structure in order to meet modern building codes and amenities

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regulations. The Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum, built on the original footprint of the depot, opened in 2010.

Operated by the City of Aiken, with support from the Friends of the Aiken Railroad Depot, the structure houses our Visitors Center as well as a state-of-the-art railroad experience. A model railroad, dioramas, and interactive displays depict Aiken and South Carolina history. Free admission is offered along with gift shop and visitor information. The Center is available for private rentals. We will continue our work by restoring antique railroad cars that have been purchased.

The Center is located at 406 Park Avenue.

Additional information can be found by visiting www.AikenIs.com or by calling (803) 293-7846. The Center is open Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

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Aiken County

A

iken County Government serves a land area of 1,087 miles consisting of scenic beauty and southern charm. In addition, 160,000+ diverse and charming residents call Aiken County home. Aiken County Government provides traditional services to its citizens including general government, court and legal, public safety, environmental, public works and human services.

Aiken County’s wonderful heritage is more than 140 years old; full of southern charm and committed to a wonderful quality of life for all. The County is an attractive place in which people are relocating and retiring. It seeks to foster planned and managed growth and desirable economic development that creates prosperity and job opportunities for all its citizens.

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Aiken County is governed by a nine member Council, with eight members serving single member districts during a four-year term. The council chairman is elected at-large and also serves a fouryear term. Council’s leadership continues to place Aiken County at the top of county government in the State of South Carolina.

Recently, ground was broken and construction began for the new Aiken County Government Center, located at 1930 University Parkway. This modern facility will replace a number of outdated, inefficient structures that house County operations.

The new center will be approximately 135,000 square feet and will be the focal point for all citizens needing to conduct business with the county – all under one roof! The County provides basic and neces-

sary services consistent with the needs of its citizens in a cost-effective, efficient, and customer friendly manner.

Aiken County is truly a wonderful place to live and its government is dedicated to providing the best possible service to all its citizens.

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ASCO Valve, Inc.

F

or ultra-reliable performance and delivery, turn to ASCO: the world leader in solenoid valve technology.

Our fluid automation offerings control flows of air, gas, water, oil, and steam across the globe. Recent innovations include miniature designs, low-power solenoid valves, and redundant control systems for functional safety requirements. With tens of thousands of models available, you’ll find just the right solutions for your demanding application. ASCO makes the world’s most reliable flow control solutions — delivered and serviced with exceptional speed and responsiveness. Some last up to 500 million cycles; many are shipped within one day with our ASCO Today program. When you need help, we respond — fast. We can send a skilled technician onsite within 24 hours.

As part Emerson, the planet’s largest process automation supplier, our experienced representatives provide the industry’s best technical support and service, around the clock — and around the globe. With our deep applications expertise and global service, ASCO is the fluid automation supplier of choice for customers desiring the lowest cost of ownership, greatest asset availability, and highest productivity.

1-800-972-ASCO (2726) info-valve@asco.com www.ascovalve.com

Miniature Valves: highest-quality miniature solenoid valves and accessories for medical equipment, analytical instrumentation, and industrial applications.

Process Automation: pilot valves and control accessories for reliable process solutions Fuel Gas and Oil Products: broadest line of solenoid & motorized shutoff valves designed to control the flow of fuel gas, liquid propane and all grades of fuel oil used in combustion applications such as: industrial furnaces, ovens, kilns, incinerators, burners and boilers.

Navy & Marine Valves: solenoid and ASCO’s product lines include: RedHat Solenoid Valves: largest selec- air operated valves designed to meet the tion of 2-, 3-, and 4-way solenoid valves, de- exacting standards of the U.S. Navy and signed to handle the most demanding fluid Coast Guard.

Pressure/Temperature Switches & control applications Sensors: devices for pressure and temperature monitoring.

ASCO Nuclear Products ASCO, the pioneer and leader in the design and development of solenoid operated valves for the nuclear industry, offers a complete line of qualified nuclear products.

Our engineering expertise and stringent quality standards make every ASCO valve a high quality engineered product. ASCO nuclear products are 100% inspected and functionally tested prior to shipment in order to ensure that they meet the rigorous demands and high expectations of the nuclear industry.

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Carolina Musculoskeletal Institute

C

arolina Musculoskeletal Institute is a multi-specialty medical practice specializing in diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the skeletal system. The group is comprised of board certified orthopaedic, rheumatology, podiatry, pain management, neurology and radiology physicians.

Carolina Musculoskeletal Institute traces its origins in Aiken, SC back to 1980 when Dr. Clark Moore began his practice in orthopaedics as a solo practioner at 3701 Augusta Road. Dr. Doug Holford joined Dr. Moore in 1982 at what was then known as Carolina Orthopaedics. Over the next 30 years, with the addition of 10 other physicians, the practice moved to its present location next to the Aiken Regional Medical Center on University Parkway. More commonly referred to these days as CMI

Main Office 410 University Parkway Aiken, SC 29801 803-644-4264 Podiatry Division 721 Richland Avenue Aiken, SC 29801 803-649-3668

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by Aiken residents, the podiatry division is housed on Richland Avenue in historic downtown Aiken.

In 2011, to further enhance the capability of CMI to provide the Aiken area with a full service medical practice, the fastest and most powerful MRI machine in the community was purchased and installed. CMI can now perform xray, CT scans and MRI studies under one roof. Patients no longer need to travel to Columbia or Augusta to have these imaging services performed. We also engage the services of an in-house board certified radiologist to read and interpret the imaging studies performed within CMI. Imaging results can be obtained within 24 hours and even the same day if necessary.

The CMI panel of physicians also includes board certified doctors of

rheumatology, neurology, pain management and podiatry. The CMI model of providing all of the specialties relating to the human musculoskeletal system within the same practice is not only a convenience to our patients, it provides continuity of care not available anywhere in the Aiken community.

CMI is committed to constantly updating the technology available in the healthcare arena both medically and administratively.

From the most modern MRI imaging unit in the area to state-of-the-art patient information storage and retrieval, CMI is privileged to offer the citizens of Aiken the highest degree of professional healthcare available in any town anywhere in the United States.

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Hitchcock Healthcare

H

itchcock Healthcare has proudly served the Aiken community since 1951, providing outpatient physical, occupational and speech therapy services to children and adults. Our mission as a not for profit organization is to provide an excellent rehabilitation experience for those in need within our community and beyond. Through the generous support of the Aiken community, United Way of Aiken County, individual donors, local businesses, and corporations we are able to fulfill this mission. Hitchcock Healthcare offers many specialized areas of care in addition to traditional therapeutic interventions. We have multi-disciplinary teams which customize treatment plans for each individual patient. Among our experienced staff are a Lymphedema specialist, a Certified Hand Therapist and two

Together we can achieve your goals.

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VitalStim® certified therapists available to meet your therapy needs. We also specialize in Aquatic, Neurological, Sports Therapies and Workers Compensation.

Hitchcock Healthcare’s Children’s Therapy Department provides care for children birth to twelve years of age. We offer the experience you can count on to advance your child to their highest level of independent function. As healthcare changes, Hitchcock Healthcare remains passionate about our mission, which is why we have several locations available to serve you.

Our main location is located on the medical campus of Aiken Regional. We also have satellite clinics in Barnwell, SC and on the Southside of Aiken in The Villages at Woodside. Let us show you why we are still the premier provider of adult and children’s therapy services since 1951.

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MAU Workforce Solutions

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ounded in 1973, MAU Workforce Solutions specializes in solutions that drive bottom-line results and allow companies to focus on core functions and responsibilities. In addition, we give jobseekers the opportunity to find positions that match their skill sets and interests.

MAU is a Native American-owned, certified minority business enterprise that has grown over the years to become one of the nation’s top diversity-owned temporary staffing and recruiting companies. With recruiting partners in six continents, and an international customer base, we have extensive industry knowledge on top of the ability to analyze, design and implement solutions that match your needs.

MAU Workforce Solutions provides strategic temporary staffing, professional

recruiting, outsourcing, outplacement and managed services that are customized to fit your business’ strategic staffing and operational needs.

We’ll work with you to define and understand your business needs and goals, and develop solutions that align with your objectives. With MAU, rely on our expertise, and “Consider it Done”.

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Manage, Analyze, Utilize — The MAU Process: Drawing on almost forty years of industry expertise and knowledge of best practices, we work together with businesses to design effective and efficient workforce solutions. Our solutions are strategically

designed to improve processes and functions, and drive the competitive advantage needed for growth.

Our goal is to help organizations manage, analyze and utilize their current and future workforces with our tailored services. The MAU team will learn your business, and connect you with only the most qualified candidates to fit your team, or to bring our specialized, in-house services to your business.

“MAU is an excellent organization. They have a broad base of skills and management talent that they bring to any situation. I feel that any organization could benefit from a working relationship with MAU.” -Client Factory Manager.

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Mead Hall Episcopal School St. Thaddeus Episcopal Church

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he preceding year saw momentous changes within the familiar rhythm of school life in Aiken. Two longestablished schools joined forces to create a single K-12 program on two campuses in downtown Aiken. With an outpouring of community support, St. Thaddeus Episcopal Church embraced the union of Aiken Preparatory School and Mead Hall Episcopal School.

Ties between all three institutions run deep. For decades the boarding students at Aiken Prep would walk two blocks on Sunday mornings to worship at St. Thaddeus. One of those boys was George H. Mead, Jr. whose father sat on Aiken Prep’s board. Years later, in 1955, George H. Mead, Sr. would donate his winter colony estate to St. Thaddeus in memory of his son George, killed in World War II at the

Mead Hall Episcopal School St. Thaddeus campus 129 Pendleton Street, SW • (803) 644-1122 Aiken Prep campus 619 Barnwell Avenue, NW (803) 648-3223 www.meadhallschool.org

Battle of Guadalcanal. St. Thaddeus used the Mead home to start a parish day school, Mead Hall.

Today, Mead Hall has enrolled over 350 students in a wide range of academic, athletic, and extracurricular activities. Small class sizes and a rigorous college preparatory curriculum prepare students for a lifetime of learning and leadership. Mead Hall is accredited by the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

St. Thaddeus regards Mead Hall as an essential outreach ministry, acknowledging the privilege and responsibility of shaping children’s lives.

St. Thaddeus Episcopal Church 125 Pendleton Street, SW (803) 648-5497 • www.stthaddeus.org

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Savannah River Nuclear Solutions

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avannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) is a Fluor partnership with Newport News Nuclear and Honeywell. Since August 2008, SRNS has been the management and operating contractor for the Savannah River Site (SRS), a 310-squaremile Department of Energy-owned site near Aiken, S.C., including the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL). The SRNS corporate and community offices are located in the renovated 1912 “Old Post Office� building in downtown Aiken.

SRNS initiatives include national security, clean energy and environmental stewardship. SRNS provides nuclear materials management to support national defense and U.S. nuclear nonproliferation. SRNS supports National Nuclear Security Administration missions by extracting new tritium and delivering products to the military agencies.

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SRNS develops and deploys technologies to address environmental cleanup work, and technology research and development focused on national energy initiatives.

SRNL is the applied research and development laboratory at SRS. Operated by Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, SRNL applies state-of-the-art science to provide practical, high-value, cost-effective solutions to complex technical problems.

SRNL earns its world-class reputation because of its people and their commitment to safety, security and quality in the delivery of technology solutions that work. SRNL applies this commitment to solving complex problems, such as the detection of weapons of mass destruction, the cleanup of contaminated groundwater and soils, the development of energy sources, the need for a viable national defense, and the safe management of hazardous materials.

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The Smith Group

T

he Smith Group has evolved into one of the premier financial planning service companies in the Southeast. On a local level, the company has been awarded the Reader’s Choice Financial Planners and Tax Preparers for the past four consecutive years by readers of the Aiken Standard. Carl, President of The Smith Group, is an Ed Slott’s IRA Advisor, a member of the prestigious Million Dollar Roundtable, and the Top of the Table.

What sets The Smith Group apart is their holistic approach to financial planning and wealth preservation. Their professional staff includes five seasoned tax preparers, two registered investment advisors, and multiple licensed insurance professionals specializing in annuities, life insurance, long term care, and Medicare supplements.

They also have an independent attorney

149 Crepe Court, Aiken, SC 29803 tsgwealth.com • 803.649.6645

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which specializes in estate and legacy planning, elder law, and VA Benefits.

The Smith Group’s culture embodies a simple philosophy – provide wealth preservation through accurate tax preparation, legal counsel, financial planning, and solid money management. Our philosophy is backed by the issuance of proper insurance coverage and factual education advice.

Community involvement is a major part of The Smith Group’s goals. The company is committed to the Aiken community and gives back in many ways, such as the annual Mardi Gras party hosted by the company owners Carl and Pearline Smith.

One benefactor of the proceeds from this popular event is Children’s Place, a local respite for children living in unfortunate circumstances.

The 2012 Mardi Gras party raised $15,000 for Children’s Place and earned The Smith Group the organization’s prestigious “Business of the Year” award.

In addition to their annual Mardi Gras party, The Smith Group and their clients are involved in a number of other community events throughout the year.

They participate in the United Way’s “School Tools” program, The Marine Corps “Toys for Tots” program, and Relay for Life, just to name a few. *Investment Advisory Services offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors (“PCA”), an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. The Smith Group and Prosperity Capital Advisors are separate entities.

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Security Federal Bank

S

ecurity Federal Bank opened in 1922 in Aiken, South Carolina as a full service, community-driven financial institution dedicated to building long-term relationships with people and businesses in the communities we serve. Last year, we successfully celebrated the Bank’s 90th anniversary and now serve 4 counties with 13 branch locations, three of which offer the convenience of being Open 7 Days a Week.

In addition to traditional consumer and commercial services, Security Federal offers a full line of insurance products through its subsidiary company, Security Federal Insurance. The Bank also offers investments and trust services supported by a team with over 50 years of fiduciary experience. One of our unique programs is our free financial counseling service, designed to help people overcome credit

Established 1922 www.securityfederalbank.com 803.641.3000

obstacles and help them achieve their financial goals. The no-cost, confidential, one-on-one program helps individuals reduce their debt and establish or improve their credit. Another program unique to Security Federal Bank is our Looney Tunes Savings Club, an in-school program that teaches children the value of money and ways to save for the future.

As we continue our efforts to pave the way for the next 90 years, we would like to thank our loyal customers and the Aiken community for their continuous encouragement. We appreciate your ongoing patronage and support.

Frank Thomas President, Security Federal Bank

J. Chris Verenes Chairman & CEO, Security Federal Bank

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SRP Federal Credit Union

S

RP Federal Credit Union has been a part of the Aiken community for more than fifty years, and anyone that lives in the area can join. It’s that easy!

Today, the growing organization boasts over 100,000 members and more than $600 million in assets under the leadership of President Ed Templeton.

SRP Federal Credit Union offers a wide range of options to meet your financial needs. SRP offers affordable consumer and mortgage loans, credit cards, checking, savings, SRP Online, Bill Pay, SRP Mobile, Deposit ATM’s and coming soon Remote Deposit Capture! They can provide you with the services you need to help make your dreams come true!

SRP gives you the convenience of handling all of your personal and business accounts. Business Services offers business

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loans, checking and savings accounts to local small businesses. Call Jean Roper at 803-202-4269 to learn more.

New services recently offered include SRP Mobile. Handle your transactions right from your smart phone! You can download the free app from your phone’s app store.

Also, now many of their ATM’s offer easy and convenient 24/7 deposits of checks and cash. With 19 branches and over 50 ATMs they are member focused.

Visit them at www.srpfcu.org or call 803-649-5305 to learn more!

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Tognum America

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he MTU Aiken Plant is the centerpiece of Tognum America’s manufacturing operations, producing world-class diesel engines for a multitude of off-highway markets including construction, industrial, power generation, oil & gas, marine, mining and defense.

What began in the fall of 2010 with the assembly of Series 2000 and 4000 engines has now grown to include the overhaul of military propulsion systems and the machining of components such as cylinder heads and flywheel housings. Construction of additional research and development facilities, as well as a new administration building, were also recently completed.

The 366,726 square foot state-of-theart manufacturing facility is conveniently located off Interstate 20 in Graniteville, South Carolina, just 130 miles from the port at Charleston. It is well suited to get parts to the line and engines to our customers quicker than ever before. The plant represents an $85 million investment by the Tognum Group. It also represents a boost to the local economy, employing more than 250 people. And that’s just the beginning.

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In addition to building engines, Tognum is also active in supporting the community.

For example, a new apprenticeship program for local area high school students was recently implemented by the company in conjunction with Aiken County Schools and Aiken Technical College. The goal of the program is not only to develop potential new employees but to provide new education opportunities to Aiken County students.

With a highly skilled workforce and plenty of room to grow, MTU is well prepared to meet the power and propulsion needs of North America today and for years to come.

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UniHealth Post-Acute Care of Aiken and North Augusta

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niHealth Post-Acute Care – Aiken, and UniHealth Post-Acute Care – North Augusta are part of the UHS-Pruitt Corporation family of health care providers. They are advanced skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers offering post-acute care, long-term care, rehabilitation, and a specialized ventilation unit.

While each location is freestanding with their own unique campus, they collectively serve over 300 patients 24 hours a day, every day of the year. They have high accreditations and have won awards for their outstanding quality on a national level, as well as on a State level for several of their exceptional caregivers.

UHS-Pruitt Corporation is a leader in long-term health care throughout the Southeastern United States. The multifaceted family of providers began as a familyowned health care center in 1969 has now grown into a company with more than 200 family; Committed to loving, giving and affiliated service locations that employ over caring; United in making a difference.

UPAC-Aiken and UPAC-North Augusta 16,000 people that pledge to carry out the mission of: Our family, your family, one are assisted by a broad range of health and residential support services within the UHS-Pruitt family, including: home care assistance, hospice care, medical supply provision, and institutional pharmacy services. Their care model focuses on treating patients and customers with compassion, while driving them towards achievement of their personal goals or, in many cases, returning them to a higher level of function830 Laurens St. NW, Aiken, SC ing through rehabilitation and education.

(803) 641-8000 Health care centers within the UHS1200 Talisman Dr., North Augusta, SC Pruitt family offer quality provisions such (803) 278-2170 as private and semi-private rooms with flat-screen TVs and high speed internet

access, select menu plans customized to unique nutrition limitations, and hospitality services like monthly fresh fruit baskets, daily newspaper delivery, and weekly fresh flowers. Their Transitional Recovery Suites are staffed with trained specialists who provide personalized, state-of-the-art rehabilitation using advanced programming and equipment such as Nautilus®, and Biodex™.

No matter what the individual need is, patients of UniHealth Post-Acute Care – Aiken and UniHealth Post-Acute Care – North Augusta can expect a health care program designed for when and where they need it.

For more information, visit www.uhs-pruitt.com.

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The University of South Carolina Aiken

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he University of South Carolina Aiken has been a proud member of the Aiken community for 51 years.

The University opened its doors in 1961 in a downtown mansion named Banksia, and has grown tremendously. The campus is located now on University Parkway with 453 acres.

USC Aiken offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees to more than 3,200 students, with 49 degrees and programs available. The quality of the institution is nationally recognized as well. USC Aiken is ranked the #1 public regional college in the South by U.S. News and World Report’s guide “America’s Best Colleges.” 2013 marks USC Aiken’s 15th consecutive ranking among the top three in this category and its 9th time in first place. In addition, USC Aiken is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

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USC Aiken also offers the full student experience. The USC Aiken Pacer athletic teams consistently receive national rankings with sports including golf, basketball, tennis, and baseball. There are more than 90 student organization programs. Students can live in student housing on campus. From a stellar athletic department to cultural events, the University has it all.

This year Dr. Sandra Jordan was named the school’s fourth chancellor, and is the University’s first female chancellor. With her leadership and direction, USC Aiken looks forward to many more years of growth, bettering the Aiken community.

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URS Corporation

U

RS Corporation is an international leader in providing engineering, construction, and technical services for complex and challenging markets with proven international experience leading large scale projects for public agencies and private sector companies. Through involvement in five market segments — Federal; Oil & Gas; Infrastructure; Power; and Industrial — URS demonstrates its capabilities and commitment while delivering outstanding performance for its customers.

Within the Federal market segment, URS specializes in hazardous and radiological facility management and operation; high activity waste processing; nuclear and chemical waste engineering; soil, groundwater, and mixed waste remediation; high risk facility decontamination, decommissioning, and deactivation; nuclear waste repository management; and environmental compliance. URS is recognized internationally for providing the ingenuity and problem-solving capabilities necessary to safely complete work in some of the world’s most difficult nuclear environments.

From our corporate office on Newberry Street in downtown Aiken, URS leads or is involved in management, operation, and cleanup of the largest government-owned nuclear facilities in the United States and United Kingdom. On behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.K. Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), URS conducts site remediation and specialized services to clean up nuclear contamination and protect and improve the environment.

Employing the most nuclear professionals in the industry, URS provides unmatched technical expertise and experience in operating complex radioactive and hazardous facilities for government and private-sector clients. URS manages complex programs and facilities including the liquid waste program at the Savannah River Site where we are closing high level waste storage

tanks and eliminating South Carolina’s greatest environmental risk. Also, at the Savannah River Site, URS closed and deinventoried the plutonium processing facilities and operates the nation’s largest radioactive waste solidification (vitrification) plant—the Defense Waste Processing Facility.

Additionally, URS Professional Solutions, a URS subsidiary locally located on South Centennial Avenue in Aiken, applies best industry practices in all areas of radiological facility safety across most DOE projects in the U.S. Application of their expertise contributes to the consistently successful facility management, decontamination and decommissioning activities, and accelerated closures of the nation’s high-risk, high-hazard facilities.

URS employs nearly 2,100 people in the Aiken area.

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© Bob Durand Jr.

Great variety of es! architectural styl

AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

R

eal estate continues

reflecting a strong

to be a good invest-

equestrian element in

ment in Aiken, and

the real estate market.

© Bob Dur and Jr.

Housing Options housing options are plen-

More than two-thirds of

tiful – historic homes and

homes for sale are single-

David Stinson, BA, MFA,

attractive prices and low

charming cottages, condo-

story homes, reflecting

vice president of Meybohm

rates. Investment homes

miniums and townhouses,

the influence of an aging

Realtors. “This shows a

can provide income

large equestrian estates,

population on the local

new market dynamic of

and tax benefits until

golf communities with na-

market. (August 2012)

modest prices with steady

the market rebounds

sales. With mortgage

enough to raise the price for resale,” Stinson says.

ture trails, and retirement

Prices have seen a

communities with endless

change from last year with

lending rates below four

amenities.

the median sales price

percent, the timing is fa-

“Strong average

There are about 1,500

year-to-date dropping

vorable for home buyers,”

household income, solid

homes for sale in Aiken.

2.5% to $148,750 and

says Stinson.

infrastructure, a steady

About six percent of them

the average sales price

are condominiums and

dropping .6% to $169,990

market is good in Aiken

buyers, and other fac-

townhouses, and four

(as of Oct. 2012).

for those looking to invest

tors keep the Aiken real

in real estate. “Investors

estate market attractive

percent are manufactured

The 2012 real estate sta-

Likewise, the rental

flow of out-of-market

homes. Almost ten percent

tistics are similar to those

should purchase

for homeowners and for

have horse facilities,

of 2011, says local realtor

properties at today’s

investors.”

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Imagine

A place where tradition meets technology Aiken County provides an

environment where business and industry can grow and be profitable in the world marketplace – all while being a part of the quintessential Southern experience.

The Economic Development Partnership helps new and expanding industries benefit from our excellent workforce, outstanding locations, and unbeatable quality of life.

Welcome

AIKEN AND EDGEFIELD COUNTIES

P.O. Box 1708 | Aiken, SC 29802 | Phone: 803.641.3300 | Fax: 803.641.3369 | www.edpsc.org

AIKEN COST OF LIVING INDEX Augusta SC/GA MSA 2012

THIRD QUARTER

(100% Composite Index)

90.9

Grocery

(13.36%) 91.4

Housing

(28.64%) 82.1

Utilities

(10.46%) 95

Transportation

(10.66%) 95.7

Health Care

(4.44%)

85.3

Misc. Services

(32.44%)

96.2

COMPARISON Asheville, NC

Atlanta, GA

Charleston, SC Columbia, SC Hilton Head, SC

99.4

95

98.1

95.7

110.5

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© Bob Durand Jr., APG llc

ition The absolute defin ! of southern charm

AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

I

f you’re looking for a

pho to cou rtes y Dian ne Phil lips

Quality of Life With its rich heritage,

place that offers all

impeccable beauty,

the amenities you’ll

cosmopolitan flair, and

ever need, a place that

unparalleled quality of life,

individuals from diverse

offers a perfect balance

Aiken is the ideal place to

backgrounds who are

programs that have

between the charm and

come and spend a day, a

dedicated to the economic

improved infrastructure,

grace of yesterday and the

week, or a lifetime.

and overall well-being

attracted business,

promise of tomorrow, you

Aiken offers a

of the community. This

saved money,

will find it in Aiken, South

uniqueness often unheard

strong commitment from

supported health

Carolina.

of in today’s world, where

business people, public

care and education,

affordable housing,

officials, community

place for all ages and

award-winning schools,

leaders, retirees, young

for all seasons. It has

diverse recreational

professionals, parents and

been named 100 Best

opportunities, and a

students is the foundation

Communities for Young

progressive approach to

upon which Aiken draws

People, One of 21 Best

business go hand-in-hand

its strength.

Towns for Boomers, and

to offer something for

One of a Dozen Distinctive

almost every lifestyle.

Aiken is the perfect

Destinations.

One of Aiken’s greatest assets is its people –

46

By working together, public and private entities have successfully implemented numerous

ABOVE: Season after season Aiken’s natural beauty and friendly amenities attract thousands to its thriving downtown for shopping, dining, and sightseeing.

INSET: Aiken is proud if its diverse population, including its young professionals who add value to quality of life.

We lc ome Ai k e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 46

12/7/12 1:52 PM

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149 Laurens Street NW Aiken, SC 29801 803.649.4240

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1001 Pine Log Road Aiken, SC 29803 803.649.0649

A Division of Georgia Bank & Trust

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lifestyle entrenched

It is these unique

a thriving, vibrant

in Southern charm and

combinations that make

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a history that has been

the Aiken area so special

will discover why people

So, whether you plan

One visit to this

meticulously preserved

and appealing for all age

who live here celebrate

to come and visit or to

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cosmopolitan, town

delivered with a friendly

• One of a Dozen Distinctive Destinations by the National Trust

• Cozy cottages and

hometown feel

for Historic Preservation

single-family homes

• Modern vehicles sharing

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nestled among grand,

unpaved streets with

• Best Place in the South to Locate Your Company (Small Market) by

historic estates

riders on horseback

Southern Business & Development Magazine

• An active, modern

Aiken has been named:

• Southern Dream Town by Garden and Gun magazine

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Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 47

12/7/12 1:52 PM

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LOCATION Aiken is ideally located

We lc ome Ai k e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 48

achievement. The county

and accessible to major

has a variety of schools—

interstate highways and

public, charter, and

airports. The beach and

private—that place a high

the mountains are within

priority on all aspects

driving distance, and in

of learning and that

three hours, one can be

continually report strong

in Charlotte, Atlanta,

test scores and graduate

Charleston, or Savannah.

successes.

Aiken’s residents have the best of both worlds—they

For the 15th consecutive year, U.S. News & World

can enjoy big city life

Report’s guide, “America’s

without having to live in a

Best Colleges,� has ranked

large metropolitan area.

the University of South

For those who enjoy

Carolina Aiken (USC

history and culture, Aiken

Aiken) one of the top three

sits in the middle of the

public regional colleges

South Carolina National

in the South. USC Aiken

Heritage Corridor—one

has been ranked first nine

of several corridors in

times: 2002, 2003, 2006,

the United States. The

2007, 2009, 2010, 2011,

corridor was designed to

2012 and 2013.

encourage people to get off

For retirees looking to

the interstates and onto

continue their education,

the back roads of South

USC Aiken offers the

Carolina, where they can

Academy for Lifelong

learn about the state’s

Learning. Associated

traditions and culture

with the University’s

and experience various

Continuing Education

festivals and foods.

program, the Lifelong

The climate is another

Learning program offers

plus; Aiken’s residents

classes and events to

can enjoy the change of

those over 55 years of age.

seasons without prolonged severe weather.

Aiken Technical College offers a variety of programs for students,

EDUCATION Education is extremely important to the citizens

such as business, computer technology, engineering technology

of Aiken and is a top

and nursing. It also

priority in work force and

contributes significantly

economic development

to the community’s

initiatives throughout the

work force. The college

area.

plays a major role in

Students in kindergarten

48

recognition for academic

training employees for

through 12th grade

new industry and adapts

regularly receive

quickly to meet the needs

please recycle this publication

12/7/12 1:52 PM

of existing and expanding industry.

The performing arts provide exciting entertainment and often

HEALTH CARE

give local citizens an

With more than 120

opportunity to perform.

doctors and 245 beds,

The URS Center for the

Aiken Regional Medical

Performing Arts, a state-

Centers offers outstanding

of-the-art theatre located

services to its patients in

in historic downtown

a variety of specialties,

Aiken, is home to the

including the Cancer

Aiken Community

Care Institute, the

Playhouse, which offers a

Cardiovascular Institute,

variety of shows to meet

and the Vein Center.

everyone’s tastes, from

Several hospitals located

drama to comedy and

in Augusta, Georgia, and

musicals. In addition to

throughout the region

the playhouse, the Aiken

also offer a wide range

Performing Arts Group

of medical services and

brings in nationally and

specialties.

internationally renowned

In addition to hospital

singers, musicians and

and physician care, a

actors to Aiken each year.

comprehensive range

The Etherredge Center,

of health care services

located on the campus of

can be found in Aiken

the University of South

County, including

Carolina Aiken (USC

home health, physical

Aiken), features a 687-

therapy, occupational

seat theater known for

therapy, sports medicine,

its acoustical quality.

behavioral health, and

The Center holds many

exercise programs to

cultural events open to

name a few.

the community, including

ART & CULTURE The Aiken community is passionate about art – all kinds of art – and

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the annual cultural series featuring traveling theater companies and performers.

The University’s

residents and visitors

100,000-square-foot

alike support the arts with

Convocation Center, one

an enthusiasm that could

of the region’s premier

rival most any large city.

entertainment facilities,

Visual and performing

features everything from

arts thrive year round

internationally known

and touch many cultures

music stars to comedians,

and lifestyles, while

musicals, and even

showcasing local, national

professional bull riding.

and international talent.

No Stress Banking

The University also hosts renowned writers

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803.293.2400

savannahriverbanking.com Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de

ion

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 49

49 12/7/12 1:52 PM

in the area through art

Distinguished Writers

education and enrichment

Building, one of Aiken

technical and scientific

Series. Sponsored by the

classes. Both visual and

County’s most historic

achievements, sociological

Department of English,

performing arts classes

landmarks, is the site

impacts, and ecological

the event features free

are available and give all

of the Center for African

accomplishments.

public readings by

citizens the opportunity

American History, Art &

novelists, short story

to learn a new skill or

Culture (CAAHAC). The

outdoor fun and

writers, and poets.

enhance an existing one.

goal of the center, which is

entertainment, Aiken

currently being developed,

boasts a variety of

is to preserve and present

festivals, such as the

the cultural legacy of

annual St. Mary’s

the African-American

Chocolate Festival,

Diaspora and chronicle

Mead Hall Strawberry

the many contributions

Festival, and Aiken

of African-Americans to

Bluegrass Festival. The

Aiken and neighboring

Greater Aiken Chamber

regions.

of Commerce presents

photo courtesy The Family Y Aiken Branch

each year during its

The Immanuel Institute

The Aiken Train Museum

Outdoor musical

History and culture play

the Savannah River Site’s

When it comes to

the Aiken’s Makin’ Arts

is a replica of Aiken’s

& Crafts Show every

historic railroad depot. It

September on the Friday

houses the City of Aiken’s

and Saturday after Labor

Visitor’s Center, as well

Day. The popular event

as displays depicting the

attracts more than 30,000

relationship between the

people annually to Aiken’s

founding of Aiken and the

historic downtown.

history of the railroad –

RECREATION

entertainment is also

an important role in the

from the popular legend

popular in the area.

community, and various

of a bride whose “hand

The Hopelands Gardens

historical sites and

was given in marriage” in

offers exciting outdoor

Summer Concert Series

museums offer memorable

exchange for a railroad

activities for visitors and

often attracts a large,

educational experiences.

stop, to the establishment

residents of all ages.

enthusiastic crowd and

Banksia, currently home

of the “Winter Colony,”

Every season in Aiken

Fun and diverse

features various musical

to the Aiken County

when wealthy northerners

activities abound year

entertainment from bands

Historical Museum, once

traveled by way of

round in Aiken and

to ballet, bluegrass and

served as the original

personal railway cars to

surrounding towns. One

clogging.

campus of the University

spend their winters in

of the biggest draws for

The Aiken Center for

of South Carolina Aiken

Aiken.

many is the numerous

the Arts and numerous

and as the community’s

galleries feature works

public library. The

will enjoy learning about

events. The area boasts

of local, as well as

museum offers an

Aiken’s science and

of international polo

international and

exciting historical view

engineering history. The

matches, foxhunting,

national, artists. Artist

of Aiken and features

SRS Heritage Foundation,

horse shows, and carriage

shows and receptions

ongoing displays and

Inc. preserves the history

and pleasure riding.

flourish throughout the

shows that bring history

of the Savannah River

Busy horse farms and

year and offer a unique

to life. The grounds have

Site and interprets to the

stables dot the area, and

mix of art media.

been developed into an

public the SRS’s role in

equestrian activities are

arboretum and nature

winning the Cold War. The

so popular that the City of

trail.

Foundation focuses on

Aiken has unpaved streets

Participation in the arts is highly encouraged

50

We lc ome Ai k e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 50

Science enthusiasts

equestrian activities and

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12/7/12 1:52 PM

made of hard clay to protect the horses’ hooves.

Long known as a premier

For many residents and visitors, tennis, softball, baseball, volleyball

horse training center

and soccer play a close

that has produced such

rival to golf. Municipal

winners as Sea Hero,

and county recreation

Kelso, Summer Squall and

departments offer

Good Time, Aiken is home

numerous competitive

to the Aiken Training

sports opportunities for

Track, the Ford Conger

people of all ages. Citizens

Steeplechase Track, and

Park in Aiken plays host

numerous polo fields.

to local, regional and

Horse enthusiasts

national sporting events

celebrate Aiken’s rite

that attract thousands of

of spring every March

people to the area each

with the Triple Crown.

year.

The popular three-

For those who enjoy

weekend equestrian

nature and walking, the

event, which includes

area offers numerous

flat races, the national-

public parks, walking

circuit Steeplechase and

trails and tranquil

polo, draws families,

gardens. Hopelands

friends and businesses

Gardens, a 14-acre public

together for fun, food and

treasure, features garden

festivities.

paths that wind among

Another popular activity

and oak trees. For the

golf, which is a major

more adventurous,

draw for many who move

Hitchcock Woods, a

to the area. Simply

2,000-acre woodland

stated, the area is a

preserve nestled in the

golfer’s paradise! With

heart of downtown Aiken,

several private and public

has numerous trails and

courses available, golf

paths that provide hours

enthusiasts take to the

of hiking, horseback

links year round.

riding, and bird watching

flourish throughout

Aiken’s Newest Apartment Community

New London offers modern finishes in each unit including: Stained wood cabinets • Oil rubbed bronze fixtures and hardware Frieze carpet • Upgraded 16” vinyl tiles in kitchen and baths Kitchen islands • Vaulted ceiling • Ceiling fans • Track lighting Patios and balconies • Smoke free apartments • Washer/dryer connections Exceptional closets • Furnished and unfurnished units available With a prime location behind the Whiskey Road Target, you can walk to do your shopping and even to some of the local resturants. These one and two bedroom units are tastefully designed and reasonably priced. Ask about our preferred employer and student discounts.

Come by and see why these apartments are the best kept secret in Aiken!

389 Spencer Drive • Aiken, SC 29803

803-648-7005 • www.atcdevelopment.com

100-year-old magnolia

that thrives in Aiken is

Golf tournaments

New London Apartments

activities for many.

For the real outdoor

the year and cater to

enthusiast, camping,

experienced golfers as well

boating and water sports

as the novice. Thriving

abound at nearby lakes

golf communities testify

and state parks. And

to the sports popularity,

every season the Aiken

and the area bustles

area comes alive with

with activity every year

numerous exciting

during the Masters Golf

festivals and events for all

Tournament in nearby

to enjoy.

Augusta, Georgia.

Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de

ion

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 51

51 12/7/12 1:52 PM

AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

H

ealth care is a top

pho tos cou rtes y Aike n Reg iona l Med ical Cen ters

Health Care The Greater Aiken area

priority in Aiken

is rich in health care

and Aiken County.

facilities and services.

Health care providers and

The region is home to

citizens alike recognize

nine hospitals and more

a private, nonprofit

the value of a healthy

than 25,000 health care

organization based in

community. With highly

professionals providing

Utah, ranks ARMC among

trained professionals

some of the best health

the nation’s top hospitals

who are dedicated to the

care services in the

for treating the above-

wellness of the entire

nation.

mentioned diseases.

person - from acute care

Aiken’s residents have

With more than 120

to behavioral health,

access to Aiken Regional

on-staff physicians

preventive medicine and

Medical Centers (ARMC),

covering 38 specialties,

wellness programs - the

which the Carolinas

the 245-bed hospital is

Aiken area offers superior

Center for Medical

well equipped to care for

health care services

Excellence has ranked

family needs by providing

covering a broad spectrum

as South Carolina’s top

high quality healthcare.

of specialties.

hospital for treating heart

Southside Imaging Center

attacks, heart failure and

opened its doors in 2011

pneumonia. Healthinsight,

and serves residents on

52

ABOVE: Aiken has a variety of specialists to care for the community’s health care needs, including women’s health.

INSET: With an award winning healthcare system, the greater Aiken area is home to a multitude of nationally and internationally renowned medical professionals.

We lc ome Ai k e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 52

12/7/12 1:52 PM

Comprehensive Care for Every Part of Your Life !T !IKEN 2EGIONAL -EDICAL #ENTERS WE KNOW THAT WHEN YOU CHOOSE A HOSPITAL

YOU WANT ONE THAT OFFERS ALL THE CARE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY NEED IN ONE COMFORTABLE CONVENIENT LOCATION THAT S CLOSE TO HOME 7HEN YOU NEED URGENT CARE OUR HOUR %MERGENCY $EPARTMENT IS READY WITH PERCENT BOARD CERTIlED EMERGENCY MEDICINE PHYSICIANS !ND WE VE GOT YOU COVERED WITH THESE COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES

Aurora Pavilion Behavioral Health Services

641-5900

Bariatric Services

641-5751

Cancer Care Institute of Carolina

641-7850

Cardiovascular Institute of Carolina

641-5280

Diabetes & Nutrition Teaching Center

293-0023

Joint and Spine Center

641-5470

Palmetto Pediatrics

641-KIDS

Sleep Evaluation Center

641-5370

Southside Imaging Center

502-5020

— Women Enlightened for Better Health

641-5893

Women’s LifeCare Center

641-5800

Women’s LifeCare Diagnostic Services

641-5065

Wound Healing Institute of Carolina

643-2090

The Vein Center

641-5544

Find a Doctor.

4O lND A PHYSICIAN CALL OUR FREE $IRECT $OCTORS3-0LUS PHYSICIAN REFERRAL SERVICE AT

Refer to the gatefold for more information and a complete physician listing.

Get to know us online.

6ISIT US AT WWW AIKENREGIONAL COM TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS NEWSLETTER Quality of Life REQUEST A FREE BROCHURE AND SEE A SCHEDULE OF COMMUNITY HEALTH EVENTS AND MORE

5NIVERSITY 0ARKWAY s !IKEN 3# 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.

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 53

12/7/12 1:52 PM

Aiken’s southside with

a short distance away in

convenient access and

Augusta, Georgia. The

advanced diagnostic

Georgia Health Sciences

services. ARMC’s newly

System includes a 478-

renovated cath lab,

bed adult and 154-bed

equipped with the latest

pediatric hospital. The

technology, allows the

hospitals are the region’s

Cardiovascular Institute

Level 1 adult and pediatric

to consistently care for

trauma centers with

patients at a rate below

service lines that include

the national and state

digestive health, neuro,

average “Door to Balloon�

cancer, and heart. The

times.

health system also

ARMC’s services

dedicated centers and

emergency department

units for specific medical

to cardiopulmonary and

treatment, such as sports

respiratory services,

medicine.

Computerized Tomography

6FKHGXOH \RXU QH[W PDVVDJH ZLWK XV WUHDWPHQW URRPV DYDLODEOH OLFHQVHG WKHUDSLVWV

&HQWUH 6RXWK ‡ 6& /LFHQVH V

Augusta, Georgia-

Scanning to same-day

based University Health

outpatient surgery,

Care System features a

dialysis treatments to

581-bed, not-for-profit

pain management, and

community hospital

much more. The Sleep

serving 25 counties

Evaluation Center,

in Georgia and South

Women’s LifeCare Center,

Carolina. It has nearly

Diabetes and Nutrition

600 independent, private

Teaching Center, Aurora

physicians on active,

Behavioral Health

consulting, courtesy, and

Services, Cardiovascular

associate staff.

Institute of Carolina,

The Health Care System

and the Cancer Care

also includes two nursing

Institute of Carolina are

facilities – the 100-bed

among ARMC’s top-notch

Kentwood Extended Care

facilities.

Facility, which includes 20

In addition, The Surgery

personal-care beds, and

Center of Aiken, located

the 149-bed Westwood

near the hospital campus,

Facility, which includes

offers outpatient surgery.

a separate unit for

Also serving the area is the Georgia Health

216 Edgefield Ave., N.W. Aiken, South Carolina 29801 Telephone (803) 648-4224

includes a variety of

range from a 24-hour

Alzheimer’s patients.

Recently, the American

Sciences University /

Nurses Credentialing

Medical College of Georgia

Center recognized

health system, a teaching-

University Hospital with

and research-based

its prestigious Magnet

hospital, which is located

designation for nursing

www.familymedcenters.com 54

We lc ome Ai k e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 54

please recycle this publication

12/7/12 1:52 PM

excellence. The national

Comprehensive care

award is considered one

facilities, adult day

of the highest honors in

services, and assisted-

nursing.

living communities

In addition to hospital

complement the many

and physician care, a

medical services available

comprehensive range

and support the diverse

of health care services

health care needs of area

can be found in Aiken

citizens.

County, including

When it comes to health

home health, physical

care, the Aiken area is

therapy, occupational

well prepared to serve the

therapy, sports medicine,

needs of its citizens from

behavioral health and

newborn through the

exercise programs to name

senior years. As research

a few. Special interest

and new technologies

programs and support

unfold on the medical ho-

groups are also available,

rizon, one can be sure the

as well as educational

health care providers will

programs.

be there to bring the best care and technological advances to Aiken County.

Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de

ion

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 55

55 12/7/12 1:52 PM

courtesy Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC

Lots of career opportunities!

AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

F

or more than 175

machines and materials

years, Aiken and

for nuclear defense

Aiken County have

and environmental

cour tesy Econ omi c Dev elop men t Part ners hip

Economy & Employment progressed because they

restoration, some of the

have changed with the

most advanced businesses

economic times . . . and

and industries call the

it shows. Aiken has been

Aiken area home. The

named the “Best Place in

range and diversity

the South to Locate Your

of these companies

River Site, which includes

Tire Operations have

Company” (small market).

provide a stable working

the Savannah River

invested heavily in Aiken

Many factors played into

environment and

National Laboratory.

County and contribute

this distinguished honor,

strengthen Aiken County’s

including the area’s strong, diverse economy.

economic base.

Savannah River Nuclear

Several other large employers in the area, including Savannah

significantly to economic prosperity.

Kimberly-Clark

Solutions, LLC, the largest

River Remediation, LLC,

Corporation is a Fortune

employer in Aiken County

at the Savannah River

500 company as are

medicines and paper

and one of the largest in

Site, Kimberly-Clark

Carlisle Tire and Wheel,

products, to cotton cloth,

South Carolina, plays a

Corporation, Shaw

ASCO (Emerson Electric),

tires, automotive parts,

major role in the area’s

AREVA MOX Services,

Pepperidge Farm, and

diesel engines, vending

economy at the Savannah

and Bridgestone Americas

Owens Corning.

From everyday products, such as over-the-counter

56

We lc ome Ai k e n - c o mmu n ity g u id e

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 56

12/7/12 1:52 PM

The area also enjoys a

The testament of these

and the University of

South Carolina, the Aiken

strong global presence

efforts shows – several

South Carolina Aiken are

area is blessed with

with several international

existing industries have

instrumental in preparing

excellent transportation

companies, such as

significantly expanded

students for the business

access.

Bridgestone (Japan),

their operations in recent

and technical needs

Tognum America

years.

of local employers. In

Municipal Airport

addition, their Continuing

accommodates corporate

(Germany), Autoneum

Another industry that

In addition, the Aiken

North America, Inc.

boosts the economic base

Education programs

jet service, and the

(Switzerland), Metso Paper

and draws considerable

support new technological

area offers two railway

USA (Finland), Newman

community support is

needs brought on by an

companies, bus lines, and

Technology SC (Japan),

the equestrian industry,

ever changing market.

motor freight lines that

BAE Systems (United

which contributes more

Aiken’s convenient

provide transportation

Kingdom), and BOC

than $72 million annually

location and accessibility

services. Add to this the

Gases (United Kingdom),

to the local economy.

also make it attractive

fact that the major ports

for many different kinds

of Charleston, South

progressive business

of businesses. With its

Carolina and Savannah,

environment, the Aiken

proximity to I-20 and to

Georgia are only 2½

the value of its economic

area offers a diverse, well

two commercial airports,

hours away, and one

base and works closely

trained work force and

Augusta Regional Airport

can see that business

with existing industries

incentives to potential

in Augusta, Georgia, and

transportation needs are

to help ensure their

business and industry.

Columbia Metropolitan

easily met in the Aiken

success and longevity.

Aiken Technical College

Airport in Columbia,

area.

and Shinsho American Corporation (Japan).

Aiken County recognizes

With its friendly,

Wel com e A i ken - com m u ni t y gui de

Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 57

57 12/7/12 1:52 PM

Aiken

{by the numbers}

EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR 1. Professional and Business Services – 27% 2. Manufacturing – 15% 3. Wholesale and Retail – 13% 4. Government – 13% 5. Education and Health Services – 8% 6. Leisure and Hospitality – 8% 7. Construction – 8% 8. Financial Activities – 4% 9. Transportation and Warehousing – 2% 10. Other – 2%

3

4

2

5 6 1 7 10

9

8

k-12 School Numbers

Aiken County major employers

20......................................... Elementary 10................................................Middle

Company Description

Employees

Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC....................Nuclear Processing.......................................................6,000 Savannah River Site

7......................................... High School 1...................Career & Technology Center 3....................................Charter Schools

Aiken County Public Schools ...................................Education......................................................................3,312 Shaw AREVA MOX Services......................................Nuclear Design.............................................................2,800 Savannah River Site

% Population

By Age Group

Savannah River Remediation, LLC............................Design and Construction..............................................2,400 Savannah River Site

0-18 years old.............................. 26.2%

Kimberly-Clark Corporation .....................................Consumer Paper Products............................................1,250

18-24 years old.............................. 8.8%

Aiken Regional Medical Centers...............................Health care....................................................................1,200 Bridgestone...............................................................Tires.................................................................................940 County of Aiken........................................................Government.....................................................................888

25-44 years old............................ 28.9% 45-64 years old............................ 23.3% 65 and over.................................. 12.8%

AGY..........................................................................Glass Fiber & Circuit Boards...........................................770 Crane Merchandising Services.................................Vending Machines...........................................................700 WSI-SRS Team..........................................................Security Systems.............................................................678 Savannah River Site Wal-Mart Associates Inc...........................................Retail................................................................................641 Shaw Industries........................................................Textiles.............................................................................600 University of South Carolina Aiken...........................Education.........................................................................517 UPS Customs Brokerage...........................................Transportation & Logistics...............................................450 City of Aiken.............................................................Government.....................................................................445 ASCO Valve Manufacturing. Inc................................Industrial Solenoid Valves...............................................395 Hubbell Power Systems............................................High Voltage Insulators....................................................370

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Communities (Incorporated) in Aiken County

Aiken Burnettown Jackson Monetta New Ellenton North Augusta Perry Salley Wagener Windsor

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Aiken

Total Area of County, 1,080.66 square miles Land – 1,072.66 square miles • Water – 8 square miles

County Population Estimate, (2011) – 160,682 (U.S. Census Bureau)

Growth Rate + 0.4% (2010-2011) (South Carolina Statistical Abstract)

Total Civilian Labor Force – 76,200 (2012) (Lower Savannah Council of Government)

Unemployment Rate (Sept.) 2012 – 9.1% (South Carolina Dept. of Employment and Workforce)

A Lasting Impression On The Community.

Bridgestone Americas is committed to being an engaged corporate citizen in all the communities we call home. Be it through our corporate partnerships with organizations like

Distance To Other Cities Atlanta, GA.......................................................................163 miles

Habitat for Humanity and United Way, or our local support of boy scout troops and community clean-up efforts, being involved is an important part of our business.

Augusta, GA.......................................................................16 miles Charleston, SC.................................................................126 miles Charlotte, NC...................................................................150 miles Columbia, SC....................................................................56 miles Greenville, SC..................................................................126 miles Hilton Head, SC...............................................................131 miles

Bridgestone Aiken County 1 Bridgestone Parkway Graniteville, SC 29829

Myrtle Beach, SC.............................................................192 miles Savannah, GA..................................................................127 miles Find out more at www.BridgestoneAmericasCSR.com

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courtesy USCA

AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

Education

A

iken County’s

schools received South

private citizens

Carolina Palmetto Gold

and business

and Silver awards for

than 1,440 high school

Career and Technology

communities have a long

attaining high levels

graduates set a district

Center offers a multitude

standing commitment to

of performance on

record by receiving

of award-winning career

education and embrace

state standardized

nearly $43 million in

focused programs, as

the many academic

measurements for general

scholarships. The U.S.

well as four new health

offerings – from pre-

performance; five schools

News and World Report

science and sports

kindergarten to college

were recognized for closing

recognizes South Aiken

medicine opportunities

and beyond. With public,

the achievement gap.

High School as the #7

for students. The

In addition, several

high school in South

center’s partnerships

private and religion-

and student achievement.

This past year, more

aspects of the campus.

The Aiken County

based schools available,

schools have received

Carolina and the #1,079

with local colleges and

educational opportunities

statewide and national

out of 22,000 high

corporations enhance

are plentiful for all

recognition for

schools nationally. Aiken

academic courses and

students, where academic,

implementing model

Elementary Knowledge

expand the academic

as well as physical and

programs in the arts,

Masters are ranked first

choices for students.

character, development

middle school education,

in the state for their 5th

Public schools are

are stressed.

physical education,

grade academic excellence.

technologically rich

science education,

There is enormous growth

and are meeting the

Schools continue to be

athletics, and community

in the schools which

ever increasing demand

recognized for academic

service initiatives.

has resulted in facility

for graduates to be

excellence and student

Hammond Hill Elementary

renovations and additions.

highly skilled in the

achievement throughout

was named a National

Aiken High School will

use and application

the pre-K to 12th grade

Blue Ribbon school

have two new buildings to

of technology. All

levels. During the 2011-

for being a model of

house instructional and

schools have internet

2012 school year, 27

excellence in academics

extra-curricular athletic

capability, and, except

Aiken County Public

60

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Welcome Aiken (1-68).indd 60

12/7/12 1:52 PM

for the charter schools,

continue their education

are fully accredited by the

at a four-year institution.

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

HIGHER EDUCATION Aiken County’s

The Aiken area also has higher education opportunities through other local colleges and universities, including

institutions of higher

the Aiken campus of

education, Aiken

Limestone College, a four-

Technical College (ATC)

year liberal arts institution

and the University of

chartered by the State

South Carolina Aiken

of South Carolina. A

(USC Aiken), offer

short distance from Aiken

outstanding opportunities

in Augusta, Georgia,

for area citizens.

are campuses for Troy

As the #1 public

University, the University

baccalaureate college in

of Phoenix, and Webster

the South in the 2013

University, located at Fort

edition of U.S. News &

Gordon.

AIKEN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS AT A GLANCE: K-12 The Consolidated School District of Aiken County is South Carolina’s sixth largest school district in population.

Address: 1000 Brookhaven Drive, Aiken, SC 29803 Phone: (803) 641-2428 Web: www.acps.schoolfusion.us K-12 Student Population: 24,759 (2012-2013) Number of Schools: 41 - 7 High Schools - 10 Middle Schools - 20 Elementary Schools - 1 Career and Technology Center - 3 Charter Schools Average Teacher Salary: $48,730 Number of Teachers: 1,868 Number of 4-year-olds: 731 Total Number of Employees: 3,312

America’s Best Colleges,

County does not stop with

the University of South

higher education, though.

Ethnic Composition: - 58.0% Caucasian - 33.8% African-American - 5.2% Hispanic/ESL

Carolina Aiken offers 43

A strong commitment to

- 3.0% Asian/Other

undergraduate degrees

lifelong learning is evident

and academic programs,

in USC Aiken’s exciting

and two graduate degree

programs for seniors.

World Report’s guide,

The education in Aiken

programs. This is the 15th

The Academy for Lifelong

consecutive year that USC

Learning, located on

Aiken has placed in the

campus, offers those over

top three in America’s

age 55 the opportunity

Best Colleges.

to expand their horizons

As a multi-service, two-year comprehensive college, Aiken Technical

All new students entering school for the first time in Aiken County are requested to provide the following documents: -

Birth Certificate Social Security Number Immunization Card/Form Proof of residency

through lectures, group

IMMUNIZATION

studies and travel.

For complete immunization requirements, call 800-27-SHOTS or visit www.scdhec.gov

Also located on the

College works closely

campus of USC Aiken is

with area business and

the Ruth Patrick Science

industry in meeting their

Education Center,

work force needs. The

which offers a hands-

college offers numerous

on approach to science

educational opportunities

and math. Established

in the fields of health,

in 1987 as a cooperative

public service, business,

effort with business and

industrial, engineering

industry, the center has

technology and computer

enriched the educational

technology. In addition,

lives of more than 200,000

ATC offers college transfer

students, teachers and

programs for those

citizens since it opened.

students desiring to

NEW STUDENTS

Age Requirements: Child Development (4K): 4 years old by September 1 Kindergarten (5K): 5 years old by September 1 First Grade: 6 years old by September 1 Registration Fees: Under South Carolina Law, and as provided for in the Consolidated School District of Aiken County’s “enabling legislation,” the School District can require registration fees – also referred to as matriculation fees. Most school districts in the state charge such fees, and they help supplement supply costs for various course or curriculum related materials. The amounts vary based upon grade level and other considerations. The fee schedules are approved each year by the Board or its designee. Students who qualify for free or reduced lunches are also qualified for an exemption or reduction regarding these fees.

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photo courtesy Cynthia Delaney

A beautiful area to e! relax and enjoy lif

AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

Retirement Towns™ and “One of

place to spend

10 Terrific, Affordable

retirement years. It

Retirement Towns,” and

offers quality health care,

“One of 10 Places to Retire

a pleasant climate, friendly

on a Budget” by Where to

people, educational and

Retire magazine.

work opportunities, the

© Bob Dur and Jr.

A

iken is the perfect

Aiken’s accessible loca-

perfect balance of activi-

tion and proximity to

ties, and a relaxed lifestyle.

everything from historic

It also offers a number of

Charleston to bustling

housing options at a range

Charlotte make it a perfect

of pleasing price points.

destination for seniors. In

With a median home

It is the combination

short, settling in Aiken af-

price at $148,750 and a

new condominiums

of these items that

fords retirees the oppor-

low cost of living, Aiken

and townhouses,

have earned Aiken the

tunities to be as active, or

is a very affordable

golfing communities

reputation as the “No.

equally as relaxed, as they

place to retire. A variety

with nature trails, and

1 Place to Retire,” by

want to be.

of housing options are

retirement communities

available – historic homes

with endless amenities.

Century 21, the “One

Here is a look at some of

of 21 Best Towns for

the key items retirees look

Boomers” by Best Boomer

for:

62

Housing: large equestrian estates,

and charming cottages,

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Š Bob Duran d Jr.

3 2 %R[ :DJHQHU 5RDG $LNHQ 6&

Education: The University of

Health care: Some of the best health

South Carolina Aiken

care in the nation is

(USC Aiken) and Aiken

available right here in the

Technical College (ATC)

greater Aiken region. It is

are located in Aiken

home to several hospitals,

County. Both offer

including Aiken Regional

continuing educational

Medical Centers, the

opportunities for seniors/

Georgia Health Sciences

retirees. USC Aiken

University / Medical

offers the Academy for

College of Georgia health

Lifelong Learning where

system, University Health

seniors can learn in

Care System, Doctors

classroom settings and

Hospital, Trinity Hospital,

through group tours and

the VA Medical Center,

trips. In addition, the

and Eisenhower Army

University offers computer

Medical Center located at

training classes and free

Fort Gordon. In addition,

undergraduate courses

there are nearly 20

(when space permits) for

assisted living facilities,

seniors.

and more than 25,000

Activities:

opportunities. For those

No matter what one likes

who enjoy shopping,

to do for fun, Aiken has a

Aiken offers specialty and

little bit of everything: golf,

antique shops, national

tennis, horseback riding,

retail stores, and the

walking trails, festivals,

Aiken Mall with a mix of

community involvement,

shopping choices.

and numerous volunteer

health care professionals.

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AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

Relocation Information DRIVING

South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicle Office Information:

If you move to South Carolina from another state and establish a permanent residence, you must apply for a South Carolina driver license. If you own any vehicles, they must also be registered in the state.

Aiken DMV Office: 1755 Richland Avenue East, Aiken, SC 29801 Phone: (803) 641-7752 Mon. – Tues., Thurs. – Fri. Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (except on state holidays) Wed. Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Saturdays 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Road Test Appointments: 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

For New Residents Licensed in another State • If you are a new resident, you may use a valid driver’s license from your former state for up to 90 days. However, you must convert to a South Carolina driver’s license before the end of the 90-day period. If your name has changed since birth, you must provide all legal documents (adoption records, marriage certificate, certificate of naturalization, court ordered name change) supporting all name changes from birth to present.

• Each qualified driver can have only one driver’s license. You may not have a valid license from South Carolina and another state. To qualify for a SC driver’s license, you must pass the eye exam given at all SC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices or submit a statement of visual acuity from an eye specialist. A South Carolina license is valid for ten years and must be renewed by your birthday in the tenth year.

• Military Personnel (and their dependents) and students temporarily in South Carolina are not required to obtain a South Carolina Driver’s license. However, you must have a driver’s license from your home state to operate in South Carolina.

Transferring Your Out of State Vehicle License If you move to South Carolina from another state, you have 45 days to transfer your vehicle title and registration. You may apply for the title and registration by mail.

Go to www.scdmvonline.com for forms.

You must have the following to transfer your out-of-state vehicle title and registration: • Paid Vehicle Property Tax Receipt Before you can register your vehicle in South Carolina, you must pay the vehicle property taxes that are required in the county in which you reside. These are paid at the Aiken County Tax Office, 828 Richland Ave. W, Aiken – not at the DMV. • Your out-of-state vehicle title and registration If there is a lien on your vehicle, you must bring the name and address of the company that holds the lien.

• Liability Insurance information You must provide the name of your automobile liability insurance company, not the name of the agent. If you are a new resident in South Carolina and have an automobile policy with a national insurance company, be sure to change your address with your insurance company before you register your vehicle in South Carolina. DMV will verify your coverage electronically. If the insurance policy cannot be verified, your driver’s license and vehicle registration may be suspended.

• Completed Form 400 Application for Certificate of Title/Registration is available at www.scdmvonline.com or at the DMV office. To complete the form, you must have your vehicle odometer mileage reading and any current lien information. Make sure the odometer mileage reading is exact.

This cannot be changed in the future.

• Title and Registration Fees: - Title - $15 fee - Passenger cars - $24 fee - Persons 64 years of age $22 fee - 65 or older or disabled $20 fee (If disabled, a statement from a medical doctor as to the permanency of the disability must be submitted) - Motorcycles - $10 fee - Utility or Camper Trailers - $10 fee - Trailers with empty weight in excess of 2,500 lbs. - $20 fee

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North Augusta DMV Office: 1913 Ascauga Lake Road, North Augusta, SC 29841 Phone: (803) 279-6659 Mon. – Tues., Thurs. – Fri. Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (except on state holidays) Wed. Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Not open on Saturdays DMV Call Center: Most questions may be answered by the customer service representatives of the DMV Call Center at (803) 896-5000. The Call Center is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Information is also available at www.scdmvoline.com

Rules of the Road – Traffic Regulations • South Carolina utilizes a point system to penalize traffic law violators. This system is designed to encourage violators to improve driving habits or risk losing their license. Each traffic violation carries an assigned number of points, and when the total reaches a maximum of 12, the driver’s license is suspended.

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carry severe penalties, including imprisonment.

• In South Carolina, if windshield wipers are being used because of weather conditions, then headlights must be used as well.

• Seat belts are required for the driver and front seat and back seat passengers when the vehicle is equipped with a shoulder harness in addition to a lap belt.

• State law mandates the use of child safety seats that meet National Safety Commission standards (buses are the only exception). Children under the age of six must be restrained in the front or back seat as provided by South Carolina’s child restraint law. Four out of five children in safety seats are improperly restrained. Parents should have their children’s safety seats inspected for proper installation. The Department of Public Safety, Office of Highway Safety, maintains child passenger safety seat fitting stations. For more information, call (803) 896-9950 or 1-877-349-7187. You can also visit their web site at www.buckleupsc.com.

ELECTRICITY AND GAS Aiken County is served by two electrical utilities. Aiken Electric Co-op primarily serves the rural areas of Aiken County. The Co-op’s headquarters are located at 2790 Wagener Road (SC 4 east) in Aiken. You may contact them by phone at (803) 649-6245 or (800) 922-1262.

More information is available at their website: www.aikenco-op.org.

South Carolina Electric & Gas primarily serves the incorporated areas of Aiken County.

SCE&G has offices in Aiken and North Augusta. You may contact them by phone at (800) 251-7234. More information is available at their website: www.sceg.com.

Natural gas is available in certain areas of Aiken County. South Carolina Electric & Gas provides natural gas in selected areas of Aiken County. SCE&G has offices in Aiken and North Augusta. You may contact them by phone at (800) 251-7234. More information is available at their website: www.sceg.com.

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GARBAGE REMOVAL

MEDIA

City of Aiken Public Service Department......................................................... (803) 642-7610

Newspapers

• City of Aiken provides garbage disposal services to homes in the city limits, as well as curbside recycling. Rolling carts are available to all city residents.

• The cost of disposal is levied in your taxes or included in water and sewer service fees.

• Several isolated rural areas depend on private garbage collection services.

The Aiken Standard ........................................................................................ (803) 648-2311 Local/Aiken County, published daily www.aikenstandard.com The Augusta Chronicle.................................................................................... (803) 648-1395 Augusta-Aiken MSA, published daily www.chronicle.augusta.com

GOVERNMENT State Government • The capital of South Carolina is Columbia, located approximately 60 miles northeast of Aiken.

• South Carolina is governed under a constitution ratified in 1895.

State legislators and members of the state’s executive branch can be contacted by calling the following numbers: Governor................................................................................................................ (803) 734-2100 Lt. Governor........................................................................................................... (803) 734-2080 State Senate........................................................................................................... (803) 734-2080 House of Representatives...................................................................................... (803) 734-2402

Aiken County Phone: ............................................................................................................ (803) 642-2012 Location: 828 Richland Avenue, W, Aiken, SC 29801 Website: www.aikencountysc.gov The county is governed by the County Council, comprised of an elected-at-large Council Chairman and 8 members elected from single-member districts.

• Council-administrator form of government • Council members are elected at large to four-year terms.

• A county administrator is appointed by the county council to manage the day-to-day activities of the county.

City of Aiken Phone: ............................................................................................................ (803) 642-7654 Location: 135 Laurens St, SW, Aiken, SC 29801 Website: www.cityofaikensc.gov The City of Aiken operates under the Council-Manager form of government. Under the Council-Manager Plan, the City Council sets policy guiding the city’s growth, development, and future. The City Manager serves as the Chief Administrative Officer, much like the President of a corporation. Under this role, the City Manager is responsible for daily operations, including hiring and firing of all employees, as well as the efficient and effective use of funds approved by the City Council through the annual budget.

Other Aiken County Cities and Towns: Burnettown....................................................................................................... (803) 593-2676 Jackson............................................................................................................ (803) 471-2228 Monetta/Ridge Spring...................................................................................... (803) 685-5258 New Ellenton.................................................................................................... (803) 652-2214 North Augusta.................................................................................................. (803) 441-4202 Perry................................................................................................................ (803) 564-5756 Salley............................................................................................................... (803) 258-3485 Wagener........................................................................................................... (803) 564-3412 Windsor........................................................................................................... (803) 648-4355

LIBRARIES www.abbe-lib.org Aiken County Public Library...........................................................................

Jackson Branch Library...................................................................................

Midland Valley Branch Library........................................................................

Nancy Bonnette (Wagener) Branch Library......................................................

Nancy Carson (North Augusta) Library...........................................................

New Ellenton Branch Library...........................................................................

(803) 642-2020 (803) 471-3811 (803) 593-7379 (803) 564-5396 (803) 279-5767 (803) 652-7845

Cable Television Atlantic Broadband.......................................................................................... (803) 641-2144 www.atlanticbb.com

Broadcast Television WAGT Television, Inc., NBC............................................................................

WFXG – TV 54, FOX.......................................................................................

WJBF-TV 6, ABC............................................................................................

WRDW-TV, Inc., CBS......................................................................................

(706) 826-0026 (706) 650-5400 (706) 722-6664 (803) 278-1212

Radio Station 88.3 WAFJ Radio, Contemporary Christian..................................................... (803) 819-3125 92.7 Oldies WKSX, Oldies ............................................................................. (803) 275-4444 Beasley Broadcasting...................................................................................... (706) 396-7000 WCHZ 95.5 FM – Active Rock WRDW 1630 AM – Sports/Talk WGAC 95.1 FM – News/ Talk WHHD 98.3 FM – Top 40

WDRR 93.9 FM – Classic Hits WGAC 580 AM – News/Talk WGUS 102.7 FM – Southern Gospel WKXC 99.5 FM – Country

Clear Channel Broadcasting............................................................................ (706) 396-6000 WBBQ 104.3 FM – Adult Contemporary WNRR 1340 AM – Sports Talk WKSP 96.3 FM – Hip-Hop and R&B WYNF 1380 AM – Sports

WEKL 105.7 FM – Classic Rock WZNY 102.3 FM – Country WPRW 107 FM – Hip-Hop and R&B

Perry Broadcasting.......................................................................................... (803) 279-2330 WAEG 92.3 FM – Smooth Jazz WFXA 103 FM – Mainstream/Urban WTHB 96.9 FM – Gospel

WAKB 100.9 FM – Urban/Adult Contemporary WTHB 1550 AM – Talk/Gospel

Great Plains Media.......................................................................................... (309) 888-4496 WIBL 107.7 FM - Country

POSTAL SERVICE U.S. Post Office............................................................................................... (803) 649-9211 Main Branch located at 307 Laurens Street, NW, Aiken, SC 29801 www.usps.com Other locations may be found by calling ........................................................ (800) 275-8777

TAXES State Income Tax South Carolina has a simplified income tax structure which follows the federal income tax laws. South Carolina accepts the adjustments, exemptions and deductions allowed on your federal tax return with few modifications. Your federal taxable income is the starting point in determining your state income tax liability.

• ww.sctax.org/Tax+Information • For more information, contact the Department of Revenue Publications Line at (803) 898-5405 and ask for a free copy of the “Moving to South Carolina” brochure.

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Tax Rates

Aiken County

Individual income tax rates range from 3% to a top rate of 7% on taxable income. Tax brackets are adjusted annually for inflation.

The South Carolina Constitution provides for the following ratios to be applied to the market value or use value of property to arrive at the assessed value:

Credits Listed below are some of the individual income tax credits which may lower your South Carolina tax liability. • A refundable tuition tax credit of up to 25% for tuition paid to South Carolina public and private colleges may be available for qualifying individuals. The maximum credit is $850 per year for four-year schools and $350 per year for two-year schools. • A two-wage earner credit allows married couples to take a maximum credit of $210 if both spouses work. • A maximum credit of $300 is available for payments made for nursing home care or intermediate nursing care provided in the home for yourself or another individual. • A credit is allowed for income taxes paid to another state on income which is taxable in both states. • A child and dependent care credit allows you to claim 7% of your federal allowable expenses for the care.

Deductions to Income • You do not pay a tax in this state on property sold in another state. • A deduction of 44% is allowed on net long-term capital gains; the South Carolina holding period is the same as the federal. • Beginning with the first year you receive qualified retirement income and until you reach age 65, you can take a deduction of up to $3,000. You can take this deduction for income received from any qualified retirement plan. If both spouses receive retirement income, each spouse is entitled to a deduction. • At age 65, all residents are eligible for a deduction of up to $15,000 from income, regardless of the source. A surviving spouse may continue to take a retirement deduction on behalf of a deceased spouse. • Reserve pay income received from the National Guard or armed forces for the 39 days of annual training and weekend drills is exempt from tax. • Disability income from a permanent and total disability is deductible. • South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits or railroad retirement. • Interest you receive from federal obligations is deductible. • A deduction is allowed for each child under 6. The deduction is 100% of the federal personal exemption, which is adjusted each year for inflation. • A deduction is allowed for a special needs adopted child.

Additions to Income Certain items of income must be added back to your federal taxable income. • If any out-of-state losses were subtracted on your federal income tax return, they must be added back to your taxable income on your state return. • The deduction on your federal return for state income tax paid must be added back to your taxable income on your state income tax return. However, it is offset by your state refund amount if you claimed it as income on your federal return.

• Your home (legal residence) 4.0% • Second home (or any residential property where you do not live) 6.0% • Agriculture real property (privately owned) 4.0% • Agricultural property (corporate owned) 6.0% • Commercial real property 6.0% • Manufacturing real and personal property 10.5% • Utility real and personal property 10.5% • Personal property 10.5% • Railroads, airlines, pipelines (real and personal property) 9.5% • Personal passenger motor vehicles 6.0% • Business motor vehicles 10.5%

How do I get the best tax rate for my home?

If you own a home, you want to be sure to obtain the 4% assessment rate if you live in the home and claim it as your legal residence. Otherwise, your tax rate will be 6%. To obtain the lower rate, you will need to complete an application with the County Assessor. This should be done as soon as you move into your home, but may be filed anytime before January 15, when taxes are due. Once you have filed this application, you will not need to complete another one, unless there is a deed name change, or use of the property changes. Call (803) 642-1583 for information.

Are there any available tax breaks?

For all homeowners - Each homeowner is allowed an exemption up to $100,000 of the home’s fair market value from property taxes for school operating costs based on the 1995 millage (81.8). This exemption applies only to your legal residence, not to second homes, vacation homes or rental homes. No application is needed for this exemption; it will automatically be reflected in your tax bill.

Homestead exemption - As allowed under SC Code Section 12-37-250 The first fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) of the fair market value of the dwelling place of a person is exempt from county, municipal, school, and special assessment real estate property taxes when the person has been a resident of this State for at least one year and has reached the age of sixty-five years on or before December 31st, the person has been classified as totally and permanently disabled by a state or federal agency having the function of classifying persons, or the person is legally blind as defined in Section 42-25-20, preceding the tax year in which the exemption is claimed and holds complete fee simple title or a life estate to the dwelling place. Should you have questions concerning filing for Homestead Exemption, please contact the Aiken County Auditor’s Office at (803) 642-1514 or (803) 642-1512. All filings must be done through Aiken County. When granted, the County will notify the City of Aiken to update the tax records.

Senior Tax Work-off Program- This program allows citizens 60 years or older to work for Aiken County Departments to earn an amount equal to the Aiken County portion of their property taxes on their personal residence (school taxes are not included). This program applies only to the taxes on residential properties and does not apply to commercial properties. Please call the County Administrator’s Office at 642-2012 to obtain more information or an application to participate in the program. For certain military veterans that are 100% disabled service connected, or law enforcement officers and servicemen killed in the line of duty, paraplegics, quadriplegics and hemiplegics - A house and one acre of land on which the house is located is exempt from property tax for veterans who are totally disabled from a service-related disability or for their surviving spouse, for the surviving spouse of a military person or law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty, and for paraplegics, hemiplegics, quadriplegics or their surviving spouses. Application should be made through the South Carolina Department of Revenue. Call (803) 898-5482 for information.

City of Aiken

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To calculate your taxes on Real Property, you must have the appraised value from the Aiken County Assessorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office. Real property is taxed at 4% for homeowner occupied and 6% for commercial and non-occupied/rental property. The appraisal amount multiplied by the correct tax rate provides the assessment on the property. Please note the assessment is always rounded to the nearest tenth. The assessment multiplied by the millage rate (62 mills would be multiplied by .062, 120 mills would be multiplied by .120, etc.) provides the annual property tax due.

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See the following example for a homeowner occupied property assessed at $100,000: Take the assessed amount of $100,000 and multiply it by the Real property percentage of 4%.

This amount of $4,000 is the Equals Assessment amount.

Take the Equals Assessment amount and multiply that amount by the millage rate, which is currently at 62 mills.

The Equals Taxes due is $248. $100,000 X 4% = $4000.00 x .062 = $248.00 If you do not have the official assessment, you may use this same formula to estimate taxes due based on the data you have access to, such as selling price, other appraisals, etc,.

Sales Tax • There is a 6% state sales tax imposed in Aiken County on the purchase of food, personal effects and other items.

• There is a 1% local tax.

For more information contact: S.C. Department of Revenue............................................................................ (803) 898-5000 301 Gervais Street , Columbia, SC 29214 www.sctax.org Aiken County Treasurer’s Office........................................................................ (803) 642-2092 828 Richland Avenue, W. , Aiken, SC 29801 www.aikencountysc.gov City of Aiken Finance Department.................................................................... (803) 642-7603 135 Laurens St., SW, Aiken, SC 29801 www.cityofaikensc.gov

VOTER REGISTRATION In order to vote, South Carolina law requires one must first register to vote at least 30 days prior to the election. To be eligible to register in South Carolina you MUST: • Be a United States citizen • Be at least 18-years old on or before the next election • Be a resident of South Carolina, this county and precinct • Not be under a court order declaring you mentally incompetent • Not be confined in any public prison resulting from a conviction of a crime • Have never been convicted of a felony or offense against the election laws or if previously convicted, have served the entire sentence, including probation or parole, or have received a pardon for the conviction.

A citizen who wishes to register to vote can complete a voter registration application at their county board of voter registration.

Aiken County Voter Registration....................................................................... (803) 642-2028 www.scvotes.org 916 Vaucluse Road, Aiken, SC 29801

Motor Voter Law If you are a United States citizens and 18 years of age or older, you may register to vote when you have a driver’s license issued or renewed. Your registration application will be forwarded to the registrar in your county of residence. You must present acceptable proof of your social security number.

WATER Aiken (City of)...................................................................................................(803) 642-7603

TELEPHONE SERVICE

Bath Water & Sewer District..............................................................................(803) 593-3221

AT&T and Atlantic Broadband provide telephone service to customers in most of Aiken County. Deposits for home telephone services can vary depending on your individual credit rating and type of services ordered. Often deposits are waived for customers with an excellent payment record with a previous phone carrier.

• To place an order for residential service with AT&T, contact (800) 288-2020. www.att.com • To place an order for residential service with Atlantic Broadband, contact (888) 301-8649. www.atlanticbb.com

Beech Island Rural Community Water District...................................................(803) 827-1004

TRANSPORTATION

Langley Water & Sewer Department..................................................................(803) 593-3404

SC Express Transportation (private transit service).................................... (803) 648-9977 www.scsedan.com Best Friend Express (public transit service)................................................ (803) 649-7981 Fares: Adults - $2.00 Seniors/Disabled - $1.00

Students w/ID - $1.50 Medicare Card Holders - $1.00

www.bestfriendexpress.com Aiken Bus Station........................................................................................ (803) 648-6894 South Carolina Department of Transportation...................................... (855) 467-2368

Breezy Hill Water & Sewer Company.................................................................(803) 663-6455 Clearwater Water & Sewer District....................................................................(803) 593-3509 College Acres Public Works District..................................................................(803) 649-5619 Edgefield County Water & Sewer Authority.......................................................(803) 279-1503 Jackson Water Department................................................................................(803) 471-2229 Monetta Water Department................................................................................(803) 685-5258 Montmorenci/Couchton Water District..............................................................(803) 648-9920 New Ellenton Public Works Commission..........................................................(803) 652-2862 North Augusta (City of).....................................................................................(803) 441-4219 Perry Town Hall.................................................................................................(803) 564-5756 Talatha Rural Water District.................................................(803) 652-1381 or (803) 652-1390 Valley Public Service Authority.........................................................................(803) 593-2053 Wagener Water Department...............................................................................(803) 564-3412

Augusta Regional Airport (24 miles from Aiken)....................................... (706) 798-3236 • Is served by two airlines: Delta and US Airways. www.flyags.com Aiken Municipal Airport............................................................................. (803) 648-7803 • Private airport located in Aiken. www.aikenaviation.com Highways • The Metro area has access to interstate highways: I-20 and I-520.

• The area is serviced by three major U.S. highways and nearly 20 state highways.

www.flyAGS.com

Rail System • Main line railroads serving the area include the CSX System and Norfolk Southern • Amtrak connects the region with other cities throughout the nation via rail.

The two closest Amtrak stations are in Columbia and Denmark, South Carolina.

For more information about AMTRAK: www.amtrak.com Reservations................................................................................................ (800) 872-7245

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Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce 2013 Board of Directors Board of Directors: James “Jimmy” Angelos, URS Corporation • Sally Brodie, Real Estate One • Samantha Charles, Sidelines/Barn Book Dr. Gemma K. Frock, Aiken Technical College • Charlie Hartz, Dunkin Donuts of Aiken • Carl Henson, MAU Workforce Solutions Paul Hunt, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC • Fran Jones, Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC Joerg Klisch, Tognum America Inc. • Chrissa Matthews, DayBreak Adult Care Services • John McMichael, Hutson-Etherredge Companies Carlos Milanes, Aiken Regional Medical Centers • Brenda Stein, Veracity Payment Solutions, Inc.

Officers (Executive Committee): Steve Wilson, Chair, SRP Federal Credit Union • Dr. Deidre Martin, Chair-elect and Membership Services, USC Aiken Paul Dusenbury, Secretary/Treasurer; VistaBank • Bart Blackwell, Vice Chair Public Affairs, B & S Machine Tool, Inc. Ron Shepherd, Vice Chair Business and Community Development, UPS Customs Brokerage Arthur W. “Buzz” Rich, Immediate Past Chair, Attorney • J. David Jameson, President/CEO

Ex-Officio: Dr. Elizabeth Everitt, Aiken County Public Schools • J. Clay Killian, Aiken County Richard Pearce, City of Aiken • Will Williams, Economic Development Partnership Tom Young, Jr., Law Offices of Tom Young, Jr., PC

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