Volume 5 No. 4
COMPLIMENTARY
CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING WOMEN
Real
Mike & Ashley Thomas
Starting Our Own Family Tree
Label
16
12 www.aikenwomanonline.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Lori Samples Duncan loriduncan86@gmail.com
ADVERTISING
Cathy Williams cw@woman2womanonline.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Patti Kimsey Lori Duncan Carol Ryall Amy DoBranksi Laura Freedman Tracey Lease
From the Editor
Cover Story
2 Fall is Here!
24 Mike Thomas’ Tree of Life
Events
Equine Special
3 What’s Happening in Aiken? Let’s Talk
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Lisa Ashworth woman2womanlisa@gmail.com
of Paradise Near Aiken
4 Susan McCarty: Equestrienne Artist 28 Sullivan Saddlery 30 Suze Maze Uses Horse Power to
Extraordinaire 6 Meet Laura Tomlin of Carolina Academy of Music
COVER PHOTO
Joe Willis Photography
8 A Look Into the Life of Peggy
Deva Warren Photography Joe Willis Photography Clark Berry Lisa Ashworth Lindsey Duncan
Find us on facebook!
Aiken Woman Magazine
Woman 2 Woman Media, LLC (803) 785-4475 104 Pine Tree Drive Lexington, SC 29073 Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. © 2014
Help Veterans Heal 31 Lori Peacock Knows the Art of Pain Relief 32 Keep Pace - A Step Ahead in
Wertz 9 Brenda’s Angels
PHOTOGRAPHY
26 Marrinson Stables - A Little Piece
Feed for Your Horse
Shopping
Health & Wellness
10 Discover the Riches of Thru Time
33 Smart Plan - A Healthy Living Life
and Ages Celebrating the
Style
Survivor in You!
13 Laurin E. Long “I Refuse to Sink!” Professional 16 Lisa Firmender May Be Barnwell County’s Best Friend! 18 Journey to Aiken: A Financial Advisor’s Story 20 How Well Do You Know Your Mechanic?
34 Aiken Regional Encourages Women to “Liv Now. Live Later” 36 Center for Dentistry Adds a New Dentist - Leah Wilkins Business & Web Directory 37 Contact our Advertisers 37 Pastor Sonya: Times of Reflection
Personal Note 36 Fall, Family, and Staying Hopeful www.aikenwomanonline.com
1
From the Editor As we are approaching the holiday season, our hearts continue to be filled with the inspiring stories from people from the community. This is our special equine issue, meaning we found the best of the best equine specialists in Aiken to feature. Read all about the absolute best saddleries, stables, horse feed, and equine therapists! We have also featured some local professionals such as Lisa Firmender, Laura Freedman, and Steve Young that have greatly contributed to the community. Enjoy Lauren E. Long’s story of her fight with breast cancer. Our cover story is about Mike Thomas, owner of the South Company, and his journey with his wife in creating their new family. Life is always changing, and even as I write this to you I am amazed at how fast this year has gone by. As we are nearing the end, make sure to make the most of what is left. Are there any New Year’s Resolutions you can finish up? Also be sure to savour every moment that you have with your family and friends, and be sure to be thankful for everyone that is in your life currently. I always want to offer a reminder that the businesses within Aiken Woman Magazine have made a commitment to you, the reader, to always offer quality products and services to the people of this community. Please visit them online or in their store and let them know where you heard about them, because it is through their support that AWM is able to bring you the stories of real Aiken Women in every single issue. As always I hope you enjoy this issue. If you would like to send us a story or suggest someone you feel should be featured in Aiken Woman Magazine, please feel free to email me personally at loriduncan86@gmail.com. God Bless and See you soon! Your friend,
Lori Samples Duncan
the
at Lad T ies’ he D R ay ac es
ace R on! is
get your tickets now! 46th MAR ION duPONT SCOTT
COLONIAL CUP NOVEMBER 21, 2015
SPRINGDALE RACE COURSE, CAMDEN, SC 2
Call 800-780-8117 or go to www.Carolina-Cup.org
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating 548.SRC.15_W2W.Ad.indd 1
Real
Women
9/29/15 3:11 PM
Events
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN AIKEN? North Augusta/Beta Sigma Phi Christmas Tour of Homes December 4, 2015 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. December 5, 2015 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Houndslake Country Club Beta Sigma Phi will host its third annual Christmas Tour of Homes. Tickets for the tour are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. There will be a brunch with a fashion show on Saturday, December 5, at 9:30 a.m. as well. Brunch Tickets are $10 in advance. For more info please contact Jayne Laube at (803) 279 - 3689 or email robertlaube@att.net or email natourofhomes@gmail.com. www.facebook.com/nachristmastourofhomes
Aiken Junior Women’s Night of The Madrigal Dinner, A Renaissance Yuletide Feast December 11, 2015 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Houndslake Country Club
Our third annual Madrigal Dinner: A Renaissance Yuletide Feast is the perfect way to get your holiday season off to a grand start. A festive dinner for the whole family, featuring singers in medieval costume with many musical instruments, all led by a celebrity jester! We encourage our guests to wear costumes to add to the fun. Tickets can be purchased online. www.aikenchoralsociety.org
Christmas in Hopelands December 13 - 22, 2015 6:30 p.m. Hopelands Gardens
The 24th annual Christmas in Hopelands exhibit features gardens illuminated with over 100,000 twinkling lights during this free event. This spectacular walk-through exhibit features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and holiday displays
along with live music and special events each evening. Childrens crafts will be available at the Rye Patch. This is a free event. The shuttle service will run from 5:45pm – 9:00pm and departs from Citizens Park, 1060 Banks Mill Road. Handicap parking available at 135 Dupree Place. For more information, please call 803-642-7631. For rainout information, text AIKREC to 84483.
Christmas Crafts December 12 & 19, 2015 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Aiken County Farmer’s Market
Christmas is right around the corner and for two special Saturdays we will be inviting local craft vendors to join us for a Christmas Crafts Celebration. There will be pottery, clothing, gifts, cutting boards, gords, live music ....and much much more, including our normal fall/ winter fresh produce. Aiken County Farmers Market is Aiken’s place to shop for fresh, local produce.
Christmas at the Depot December 19, 2015 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum
Join us as we celebrate Christmas at the Depot! Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive at the Depot in a grand way at 11 a.m. and remain there until 1:00 p.m. There will be children’s crafts and festive Christmas music. Cookies and milk will be served. A model of The Polar Express will be raffled at 1 pm. This event is free for all children. Be sure to bring your camera! www.aikenrailroaddepot.org
Aiken Civic Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker December 20, 2015 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Etherredge Center
Herr Stahlbaum and his wife are giving a Christmas Party. Clara and Fritz, their children, greet the guests. The parents give toys to all the children. Suddenly, the mysterious Dr. Drosselmeyer arrives and entertains the children with his magical tricks and wind-up dolls. Dr. Drosselmeyer brings a special gift for Clara – a wooden nutcracker. In a jealous fit, Fritz breaks it. Dr. Drosselmeyer quickly repairs it. www.aikencivicballet.com
4th Annual New Year’s Day Resolution Run January 1, 2016 11:00 a.m. USCA Pacer Path
Join us for the toughest run in the southeast! Run 5k or 10k. There will be awards for 1st and 2nd place in each age group and raffles. There will be refreshments, hot chocolate, coffee, and water available. We will also have a free pancake breakfast for all registered runners after the race. Family members can eat too if they make a donation to the church. Sign up at Active.com or call for mail in registration. Sweatshirts will be given to everyone that registers by 12/11/14. Special discounts for families of 3 or more. For more information visit our Facebook page or call our race director, Rick at 803-270-4820 www.2016resolutionrun.blogspot.com
Need HELP Losing Weight? We can help you be successful with life-long weight loss.
IT’S A LIFESTYLE!!!
Eating real food in the real world... IRMO LOCATION NOW OPEN! 952 Lake Murray Blvd Irmo, S.C 29063 803.708.6700 Lexington Location 5541 Sunset Blvd. Lexington, SC 29072 803.520.8644
Before
After
www.beehealthyclinics.com
LIKE US and receive UPDATES and SPECIAL OFFERS available only through FACBOOK.
Bring this ad in with you & receive $10.00 package!
Professional
Susan McCarty
Equestrienne Artist Extraordinaire! usan McCarty is an award-winning artist, as well as an accomplished equestrian, who has covered a lot of territory in her journey through life! An accomplished artist from a very early age, she designed a mural that is the entrance art for Cavanaugh Elementary School in Lansing, Michigan, where she grew up. She won a national logo competition in the 6th grade sponsored by the National Literacy Foundation. By the time she was in middle school, she was working for an advertising agency, doing layout and posters. It is probably all of this success that gave her the self-confidence to leave home at seventeen and strike out on her own. This self-confessed “free spirit” spent a couple of years as a Colorado ski bum before moving to California where she put herself through UCLA, earning a BS in biology. Ms. McCarty followed this with a BA from the Kendall College of Art and Design. She then won a Fellowship in Art, “The New York Studio Program” and did graduate studies at Parson’s School of Visual Arts, studied with Dean Keller at the Art Student League and private studies with several outstanding artists in New York. “I still go back to New York City to draw the figure at Spring Street Studio. An old iconic art studio, (one of the few left in SOHO, which has been ‘gentrified’) they have fabulous models who are professional dancers, contortionists and others who can hold the most incredible poses. It’s run by a magnificent Russian
4
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
woman, Minerva, who is a New York institution in and of herself! It is just a real treat to draw there!” Susan related. The other passion of her life is horses. She started riding when very young. “I was very fortunate to have had availability to ponies at a very young age. I have never stopped riding.” Susan explained. “My great love is dressage. To me, this is the most involved type of riding. There is no forced control over the horse; it is all done with minute movement patterns. They are so sensitive, they can react to those tiny signals. It is a partnership; I ask, and they respond. It is the ultimate dance on horseback.” Ms. McCarty had a very successful career in advertising in New York City, moving up from Graphic Artist to Art Director and Creative Director for numerous agencies. She won many awards for her work while there. She also taught art classes at Parsons and Westchester Center for the Arts. After 9/11 she decided it was time to follow her lifelong dream and become a full-time artist. There were several stops along the way. She worked at the Ford Plantation, an elite, equestrian community near Savannah, as the Director of the Equestrian Center. When hurricanes threatened, they evacuated horses to the Aiken Training Track. She fell in love with the town and its horse community. Following a few more twists and turns to her path, she eventually made her way back to Aiken in 2010. She lives here with her Doberman,
Women
By Carol A Ryall Photo By Deva Warren
Oscar and her horses, Onyx and Hunter. She has achieved her dream of becoming a full-time artist and has reached the “A” list of artists who are invited to submit to museums and exhibits nationally. Her work has been shown in such well-known exhibits as Coors, Yellowstone Museum and Jackson Hole. She is also invited to compete in juried art shows where she has won numerous, prestigious awards. When asked about her work, Susan explained, “From my earliest memory, what I wanted most in life was a horse. This devotion is what drives me and is my inspiration. I want you feel as though you are an intimate part of every animal I portray; as if you can feel its very breath and feel its softness through your eyes. “I sell my Fine Art Sporting Prints, Portraits and equestrian art in several locations around Aiken, in New York City and nationally. I also do many commissioned pieces. I specialize in giving my clients their vision and their heart on canvas in oil or paper in graphite. I think the talent of listening and realizing someone else’s love and vision, and making it happen is part of my gift.” You can see some of Ms. McCarty’s work locally at the Ridgecrest Coffee House, Rose Hill, Aiken Design Center and The Village at Woodside as well as on her website, www.susanmccarty-art.com . To contact her about commissioning a work, call her at (706) 595-3601 or email her at studio@susanmccarty-art.com.
Professional
www.redbowlaiken.com • 2645 Whiskey Rd. Aiken
(803) 226 - 9888
BUY 1 GET 1 FREE Buy one entree and get 2nd entree equal or lesser value free (up to $9.00) Not valid with other coupon. Expires 3/30/216 1 coupon per table per visit
Ai325 k en B irm i ngha m • C o l um b i a ne = DS -3C• Gray = DS 148-6 C 237 PinkPark Avenue SW Suite 233 Aiken SC 29801 www.aisforadvertising.tv
www.aikenwomanonline.com
5
Let’s Talk
Meet
Laura Tomlin
of Carolina Academy of Music By Patti Kimsey Photo By Deva Warren
For the faculty at the Carolina Academy of Music (CAM), it’s not just about teaching their students how to play an instrument. They want their students to gain an appreciation for all types of music and to develop a love of making music.
L
aura Tomlin, owner of CAM, remembers the early years of the Academy when the studios hadn’t been sound-proofed yet. “I was teaching Mozart to a violin student in one studio. Next door, the guitar teacher and his student were playing Metallica. Across the hall, the mandolin teacher and his student were playing and belting out the gospel tune I’ll Fly Away. Down the hall, the Kindermusik class was playing percussion instruments to a traditional African song. I just thought how great it was we could offer such a variety of experiences in one unique place.” Years later, it is this diversity that continues to make the Academy a unique and special place to study music. The Academy opened in June of 2004. “In the beginning we rented only a part of the building. We purchased the property in 2008 and now utilize the entire property,” Laura recalls. A garage and workshop have been converted into a total of seven studios. The Academy originally began as the Carolina String Academy. “I saw a need for more string teachers and decided to try to do something to remedy this by opening a small studio with a few string teachers,” she explains. “But, it quickly grew into something much more. We eventually changed our name from Carolina String Academy to Carolina Academy of Music to reflect the broadening scope of our offerings.” Laura grew up in a musical family. Her mother played the piano and organ and her father the guitar. She began piano lessons at five years old, then switched to the violin at eight. She took lessons until her high school graduation, then continued her study of music and violin performance in college graduating with a Bachelor of Music from the University of North Carolina School of Arts. She went on to earn a Master of Music from the University of Southern California and her Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Georgia. She moved to the CSRA after winning a core musician position with the Symphony Orchestra Augusta.
6
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
Women
Laura has always been a performer who also loves to teach music. She is the Director of Orchestras at the Davidson Fine Arts Magnet Schools in Augusta, Ga., and teaches private lessons at the Academy. “I love teaching private lessons because of the one-on-one apprenticeship nature of weekly lessons. Through the years I have taught many students, often from the time they were young children until they graduated from high school and sometimes even from college,” she says smiling. “I love seeing them progress in their abilities, knowledge, and appreciation, as well as watching them grow up.” When choosing faculty for CAM, Laura is particular. “There are many factors I consider including degrees and training, experience as a teacher and a performer, and professionalism and personality. The current faculty is diverse and exceptional,” she states. “We aim to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere where students feel comfortable as if they were in someone’s home instead of an institution, where our faculty care about their students.” “Kindermusik classes are offered for students as young as newborn to age seven. Private lessons can start as young as four or five, however lessons can start at any age. We have many adults taking lessons,” she continues. “At Carolina Academy of Music you are never too young or too old to learn to play music.” For more information visit their website at www.CarolinaAcademyofMusic.com or call (803) 648-5150.
jndwarren@aol.com 803-270-6572
Like me on Facebook:
Deva Andrews-Warren Photography www.deva-warren-wrdd.squarespace.com
VOL 1, NO 4
COMPLIMENTARY
VOL 1,
NO 2
COMPLIMENTA
RY
VOL 1, NO
COMPLIM
G, G, MOTIVATIN WOMEN CELEBRATINATING TM AND EDUC
3
ENTARY
CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING WOMEN
Real
Real
TM
CELEBRATIN G, AND EDUCA MOTIVATING, TING Real WOMEN TM
SURVIVING
on gets Paige JohCnsha nce a New
at LIFE
BAand CKTHRIVING to SCHOOL!
It’s that time of yearshares Cherie Nettles her again, and advice to share from we inspirational journey local exper have ts!
JUCHANGING DGE HATCHETT
Meet the succe ssful TV motivationa l speaker —personality and Judge Hatch ett
Your Mind and
YOUR LIFE
Achieve long term weight management by changing your habits, NOT your diet
E TREM EXKE OVERSs MA al makeover feature sever personal We – from s! in this issue landscape health to
ZOOOM N HEAT
pounding local Com Meet yourst of Custom LLC Pharmaci n Compounders, Prescriptio
Barbara Nelson
Dr. San
a JORDAdr N
Contact us to subscribe or advertise!
(803) 785-4475
Check out all of our issues online at www.aikenwomanonline.com
www.aikenwomanonline.com
7
Let’s Talk
Author, Principal and Occasional Scuba Diver A look into the life of
Peggy Wertz
Not many people claim the title Mom, wife, author, principal, and occasional scuba diver, but Peggy Wertz is one of the few who does. Peggy was born and raised in Aiken, SC as were her parents before her, and three of her four grandparents before them. She and her two sisters have fond memories of walking and riding their bicycles to St. Mary Help of Christians where they all attended school as children. While most children grow up and leave school behind them, some, like Peggy, choose to be lifelong educators. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education, completed her Master of Education in Reading, and also completed additional graduate work in Educational Administration and Supervision, all from the University of South Carolina. After teaching for ten years, Peggy became the local district’s reading specialist. She then served as Aiken County Public Schools’ principal for twenty years, and is currently in her eleventh year as the principal of none other than her childhood school, St. Mary Help of Christians. It only takes one conversation with Peggy to understand the depth of her passion as an educator. When asked what she enjoys most about her job, Peggy said, “One of the most
8
meaningful parts of being a principal is working in partnership with teachers and parents to find the right combination of academics, motivation, and assistance to create a beneficial school experience for each individual child.” She is optimistic that parents and teachers can work together to create a successful academic atmosphere for the children they all care about. Peggy explains, “There are so many things that teachers, students, and parents can do together to solve problems, whether they are academic or behavioral. It is gratifying to be the principal in these situations because I am often the person who can make certain those things happen efficiently.” In addition to her job as a principal, Peggy has also published two books in collaboration with Fr. Jeffrey Kirby and local artist Alice Judd. The first, Becoming Father Bob, is a story about a young boy who grows up and becomes a priest. The second, Becoming Sister Mary Grace, is about a young girl’s path to the life of a religious sister. She is also working on a third book to complete the trilogy, titled Becoming Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, which will focus on the vocation of marriage. This book is scheduled to be released in February 2016.
Several years ago at the conclusion of a tour of the school, Peggy was asked what she believes is the most meaningful moment she has experienced at St. Mary’s. “It may seem strange at first, but my proudest moment is the graduation of the eighth grade class,” Peggy said, “when the graduates walk out of our school for the last time, there is an air of maturity, and a poise to their attitude that is rare to find, and I see it in our students every year.” Peggy is married to Alan and has four adult children. Two daughters have children who attend St. Mary’s School. The third daughter is a second year student at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and her son is a junior at Clemson University. For fun, Peggy enjoys water activities at her family’s lake house, and also going on scuba diving adventures at least once a year. She enjoys a second-generation bridge club in which half of the members had mothers who played together in a club. She is also a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional organization for women educators. When she takes a break from work, which is rare, Peggy unwinds by reading or babysitting and walking the neighborhood with her grandsons.
Brenda’s Angels There are three words Marie Durrett will never forget. Education is key. In 2009, Durrett’s close friend, Brenda Willis Bodie, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. One day, she approached Durrett, and asked her if she would help increase awareness of pancreatic cancer. “Brenda always said that education is key,” said Durrett, “and after she lost her battle with cancer, I felt right away that nothing was being done to raise awareness.” Not too long after her diagnosis, Bodie lost her battle with cancer. Durrett then decided to name the group she and Bodie had started after her friend, and Brenda’s Angels was born. “My vision for Brenda’s Angels is to reach a point where we can create a support group for those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and for their families,” said Durrett, “Amazingly, there isn’t a support group specific to pancreatic cancer within 150 miles of the CSRA.”
Brenda’s Angels raises money to aid the advancement of pancreatic cancer research. Durrett works closely with the pancreatic cancer patients in the surrounding area, and understands the issues they face. Through the services of Brenda’s Angels, those suffering from pancreatic cancer, as well as their families, are impacted directly through financial assistance, support, and encouragement. Currently, Brenda’s Angels is supporting three locals diagnosed with pancreatic cancer: Donna Smith of Aiken, Stan Bryant of North Augusta, and Roxanne Martin of North Augusta. This year we are raising funds in memory of the patients we’ve lost over the last year: Sean Pattison, Charlotte Klein, Russell Johnson, and Susan Heath. As a full-fledged non-profit, Brenda’s Angels
raises money to aid the advancement of pancreatic cancer research. During the month of November, which is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, Brenda’s Angels will sponsor several fundraisers throughout the community to encourage people to get involved and raise awareness. Beginning Nov 2nd, purple bows for your mailbox or business can be purchased throughout Aiken at the following locations: 3 Monkeys, Floyd & Green, Spa Go, Lionel Smith, Ltd., South Company, and Tasha’s on Park Avenue. The community is encouraged to help Brenda’s Angels “Paint the Town Purple” Throughout the month of November. There are several ways to participate, including: • Recruiting a local business to participate • Displaying a purple bow on your mailbox or business • Attending the very first Brenda’s Angels Non-Event • Attending Aiken Junior Women’s Club “Lady’s Aiken Night to Shop”, 6:30pm at Merit Flooring on Nov. 5 • Eating dinner on Nov. 9 at the Pizza Joint, where 20 percent of all proceeds from 5pm to close will be donated to Brenda’s Angels. • Wearing purple all day long on Nov. 12 in support of World Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day • Attending Floyd & Green’s Night to Give Back on Nov. 12 • Sharing photos of your support on Facebook using #brendasangels In addition to the opportunities above, Bodie’s former church family, St. John’s United Methodist Church, will host a small event where they will dye the church fountain purple in honor of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, and in memory of Bodie. The fountain will be turned purple on Sunday, November 1st at 12:30pm. The community is invited and encouraged to join. During Floyd & Green’s Night to Give Back, there will be a special Alex & Ani bracelet with an amethyst available for purchase in gold and white gold, and 10 percent of sales at Night to Give Back will go to Brenda’s Angels upon the customer’s request. Additionally, throughout the month of November, 10 percent of all proceeds made from the sale of purple jewelry at Floyd
and Green will be donated to Brenda’s Angels. “Last year, we were the charity with the most donations during Floyd and Green’s event,” said Durrett, “so we encourage everyone to make us their organization of choice!” During the month of November there will be angel jars located in various places around Aiken where donations may be made. For more information about Brenda’s Angels or to donate year round, visit brendasangels.org or follow them on Facebook. Brenda’s Angels is a 501©3 nonprofit organization, meaning that all donations are tax deductible by law. www.aikenwomanonline.com
9
Discover the Riches of Thru Time and Ages
By Carol A Ryall Photos By Deva Warren
Thru Time and Ages – the name conjures up visions of hidden treasure chests and undiscovered riches. Considering the eclectic array of beautiful and rare items Tom and Joyce Misiag stock in their store, that vision wouldn’t be far wrong. This business, located at 218 York Street, SE in Aiken, has been a dream of theirs for many years. Instead of retirement, they have been planning for a new beginning. Tom is from Illinois and Joyce is from Kansas. They have lived and worked all over the country, including one ten year period in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Tom had worked at SRR and also in Greenville. Tom related, “Joyce & I really enjoyed both communities, however, we decided that Aiken was best for us. The people are wonderfully friendly and the real estate is reasonable. There are also many wonderful activities we enjoy here in Aiken.” So, the Misiags and their four cats moved to Aiken and in September, during Makin’ Aiken weekend, they opened Thru Time and Ages. When asked about hobbies, Tom Misiag responded, “We’re collectors!” That becomes obvious as you browse through this emporium of assorted delights. Tom also appraises items and will buy individual items, as well as estates. Their inventory includes a number of totally unique items. There is pre-Columbian pottery from the 1400s of the Incan, Mayan and Toltec cultures; Syrian and Babylonian pottery, as well as ancient Chinese items and Roman Oil Lamps. In addition, you will find an extensive collection of Native American items including pottery, jewelry and Navajo rugs. Many of these items were acquired during the years
10
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
Tom and Joyce Misiag lived in New Mexico. Coin collectors will find a tempting selection of rare coins, foreign coins, American coins and other currencies including some that are 2500 years old. Especially for milady, they offer everything from contemporary jewelry to 2000 year old Roman earrings. Not in stock yet, but coming soon, will be a line of essences, perfumes and potpourri. An assortment of Braswell jams and jellies, vinegars, dressings and sauces await cooks and hostesses alike. These, along with the selection of soaps and bath goodies, also make excellent hostess gifts. Another possible temptation is their selection of flavored teas and coffees. They also serve coffee, tea and pastries right there in the store. They offer a variety of religious items such as icons and candles. The Misiags are stocking items which have been hard to locate in the past, especially for the local Greek Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches. With the holidays rapidly approaching, Thru Time and Ages may be the very place to find “just the right thing” for that hard-to-buy-for person! Stop in, have a cup of coffee or hot tea and enjoy a pastry and browse through the varied and remarkable items on display
Women
throughout the store. With the unique and diverse selection before you, who knows? You might be able to do ALL of your holiday shopping right in this one spot! Everyone will be saying “Wherever did you find this?” and you’ll be able to tell them about the wonderful new shop, Thru Time and Ages, near the corner of Park Avenue and York St. in Aiken. In fact, why don’t you drop by today, before someone else discovers it first?
Shopping
T h ru T ime & Ag e s LLC COFFEE/TEA HOUSE
(803) 226 - 0611 218 York Street SE Aiken, SC 29801
COME SEE US TODAY! Owner Tom Misiag
Alan Glover Owner
AIKEN (803)226-9035
WE BUY AND SELL:
Antiques • Boutique Jewelry • Coins • Art Native American Crafts Religious Goods 137 Laurens Street SW Downtown Aiken, SC (803) 262 - 5102
1551 Whiskey Road Aiken, SC 29803
Mon-Sat 9AM-7PM Sun 12PM-5PM
salon
Epona is an equine-inspired boutique with collections for the horse-lover from wearable art to decorations for your home plus jewelry, accessories and gift ideas. We also carry several lines that are unrelated to horses...Stop by to see our latest collections of “vegan-leather” handbags, our richly textured ponchos and shawls, fleece-lined leggings and woven, fringed scarves for those chilly days and evenings. New arrivals daily!
eponaonlaurens.com
J
GALLERY T H E R E S A B RO W N owner 803.6489273
B R O O K B AT T I S T O designer/stylist 803.645.8859
DORI TURNER designer/stylist 803.221.1238
H O L LY E D W A R D S designer/stylist
{ 2 0 1 5 A i k e n ’s B e s t H a i r S t y l i s t }
803.295.2970
803.648.9273 202 The Alley Aiken, SC 29801 Joyce Hogan-Herzog opened Gallery J in Aiken's Historic Downtown Alley in 1983. Although she passed away this year, Gallery J will continue with the help of our talented and dedicated staff. I deeply appreciate the support of the loyal friends and clients who were with her all these years. You're very special people.
www.aikenwomanonline.com
11
Label
You Can Stand On Us
Agent Name
Agent Name
(123) 456-7890 Hannah Clark, Agent(123) 456-7890 212 University Parkway Agent Name Aiken, SC 29801 (123) 456-7890
803-226-9838
www.SFagentHannah.com Agent Name (123) 456-7890
Come see Dallas and Donna for your vinyl, hardwood, laminate, LVT, supplies & much much more. Special orders arrive in 2-3 business days. Stocked items for your convenience. Estimates available. Aiken Flooring "You
Name Name Agent Name Agent Name Agent Name Agent NameAgentAgent (123) 456-7890 (123) 456-7890 (123) 456-7890 (123) 456-7890 (123) 456-7890 (123) 456-7890 Let Us Help You Get Where You're Going! Agent Name Agent Name Hannah Contact (123) 456-7890 (123)Clark 456-7890 TODAY!
Protect your family's dreams. State Farm life insurance Agent Name Agent Name coverage offers the protection your family deserves, with flexible policies and options to (123) fit 456-7890 (123) every budget and456-7890 need
Can Stand On Us!"
HOURS: Monday-Friday: 9am-6pm Saturday: 9am-4pm 2645 Whiskey Rd. Suite 103 Aiken, SC 29803 803-643-3643
We custom make rugs, binding, and serging!
3.5” x 5” | Maximum Font Size: 36 pt www.edwardjones.com Agent Name Agent Name Agent Name Agent Name (123) 456-7890 (123) 456-7890 (123) 456-7890 (123) 456-7890
SM
Finding Solutions for Your Financial Needs
Love Where You Live
SM
Alicia S Kough, AAMS® Financial Advisor .
407 Hayne Avenue Southwest Aiken, SC 29801 803-649-5138
Vice President
Member SIPC
12
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
Women
Nancy’s knowledge of Aiken helps her clients find the special places they call home. Homes that nurture memories, and make the good life in Aiken even better. Will it be a home in a golf course community, an historical dwelling downtown, or an equestrian property? To find your home in Aiken, contact Nancy at (803) 295-3424. nancy@nancycerra.com www.NancyCerra.com
Laurin E. Long
Celebrating the Survivor in You!
“I Refuse to Sink!” By Carol Ryall
Have you ever noticed that it is often the people who have had the hardest times who do the least amount of complaining? Laurin E. Long, a most positive and upbeat individual, is a case in point. his twenty-six year old native of Chapin, SC has already had to battle breast cancer, after having watched both of her parents pass away due to cancer. She lost her Mother to pancreatic cancer in January of 2006. Laurin was a Junior in High School at the time. A little over five years later, March 2011, her Father passed away from colon cancer. She was then a Senior at USC Upstate majoring in History. September 11, 2014, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. When asked how her family history affected her feelings at the time of her own diagnosis , her answer was, “To be honest, I thought of it as, “What do I need to do, to make sure that I have a future?” Losing my parents to the disease that I now have to battle actually gave me motivation to fight that much harder. I felt extremely lucky that I was only Stage 2 and I had a chance to kick cancer in the butt! My parents didn’t get that chance. “My family has a long history of breast cancer on my mother’s side, “ she continued. “I have great aunts and cousins, as well as my grandmother, all of whom also had breast cancer. The week I was diagnosed, I went to visit my grandmother and my great aunt. Both of them had fought and won their battle with breast cancer. They both told me I was going to be just fine. Those words have been incredibly comforting on the most difficult days!” “It was certainly frightening and exceedingly difficult for all of these life events to happen within eight years. The best part of this experience is the friendships I’ve made with some of the most strong, beautiful and inspiring women who I met along this journey. There are also so many wonderful people who have helped me get through this experience. ‘I had only been employed at Devro, Inc. eight months when I was diagnosed, and they have been so good to me! ! They have given me the flexibility I needed so I am able to get the best medical care. My supervisors have been so encouraging and supportive for me to keep growing as an employee. They haven’t put me on hold because of my illness. I will be forever grateful to my Devro Family, and my other friends and family for helping me through such a rough patch in my life!!” she exclaimed. “I am dating my Mr. Wonderful, Michael Bank, who I met right before my double mastectomy. On top of that I was bald, so to those women who think you can’t date while going through cancer treatment, I say, ’ You definitely can! It just takes a very good and patient man! ‘ “I got my dog Smiley while I was going through chemotherapy. He was wonderful company and helped keep me active during treatment.
He would stay right by my side when I was feeling my worst. He has definitely been my Sunshine on my sad days.” I asked Laurin what advice she would give to other cancer patients. “Some of the things that helped me going through all the different stages were to stay positive and to stay grateful,” she replied. “When I was first diagnosed another breast cancer survivor told me to make rules, give people boundaries. My first rule was, if you were negative I wouldn’t talk to you! Another thing was to have countdowns and celebrate! I would always make sure I had something else to look forward to. Whenever I would finish a surgery or a treatment I would celebrate with a fancy dinner or a race! I was determined to enjoy life and keep my life as normal as possible. “My motto when going through treatment was “I refuse to sink” and I loved anchors! Anchors are a symbol of hope and strength and that’s exactly what you need when going through the difficult days!” Her advice to friends of cancer patients was, “Do the small things; they make a huge difference. My whole day would get better whenever I would get a message from someone that said they were thinking of me or praying for me! So many people would send me pictures of anchors and that always made my day better! I loved getting mail from people! The letters and cards people have sent me are something I treasure! The people that would just do things without me having to ask were the best! Just knowing people cared and were thinking about me made a world of difference! “The last thing I want to mention is that having your health is a huge blessing and it should not be taken for granted!” Those are words of wisdom for a very strong, optimistic young woman. www.aikenwomanonline.com
13
Professional
Lisa Firmender may be Barnwell County’s Best Friend! By Carol A Ryall Photo By Deva Warren
Lisa Firmender is the Executive Director of Generations Unlimited, which is both the designated Council on Aging, as well as the rural public transportation provider, for Barnwell County. This past July, they expanded that service to include operating The Best Friend Express in Aiken. It’s a wide-ranging and somewhat diverse range of services, but the population demographics they serve do seem to overlap. A graduate of Winthrop University with a BS in Special Education, Ms. Firmender commented, “Most of my professional life has been spent directing programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I’ve worked with several SC communities’ Disability and Special Needs Boards. I came back to my hometown to work for Generations Unlimited in February of 2011.” The Best Friend Express utilizes small transport buses which are equipped with both wheelchair lifts and bicycle racks. They offer three fixed routes circulating between and within Aiken and North Augusta every two hours. Ms. Firmender stated, “Our service helps people get to essential doctor’s appointments, employment, higher education, shopping and recreation. In addition to the economic impact in the community, taking public transportation helps save our passengers money and has a positive impact on the environment. “The Best Friend Express offices are located on the corner of Pendleton and Barnwell Street in the same building as the bus station for Southeastern Stages,” she continued. “We’re within walking distance of downtown and offer passengers a spacious waiting area with restroom facilities. It’s the perfect spot for connectivity of different modes of transportation including walking, bicycling, the intercity bus, urban and rural services and taxis. (Since it is Aiken, I’m surprised there are no accommodations for horses!) “We operate between 7 am and 7 pm Monday-Friday. Schedules are available at 153 Pendleton Street NW (entrance on Barnwell Street) or can be accessed along with other information at www. bestfriendexpress.com, by calling our office at 803-262-5305 or the Lower Savannah Council of Government’s mobility managers at 803 508-7033.” You can hear the enthusiasm in Lisa Firmender’s voice as she describes her agency’s services. “We also provide a rural public transportation service known as Local Motion for Barnwell County residents. This is not a fixed route system like the Best Friend Express,” she explained. “ It’s demand/response; customers call and make a reservation at least three days in advance and we pick them up at their home and take them to work, work training, medical
14
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
Women
appointments, shopping, senior centers, recreational activities, etc. It is a shared ride bus service. It’s an exciting opportunity to be a part of helping people get where they need to go.” When asked about the Council on Aging portion of Generations, Unlimited services Lisa replied, “We have a Senior Center in Barnwell (The Gail Reyes Senior Center or Sundial Café) and in Blackville (The Golden Retreat Activity Center) where seniors who are active and can get out of their homes attend Monday – Friday. We offer a variety of activities including exercise programs, arts and crafts, health and nutrition classes, music, BINGO, gardening, computer classes, quilting classes, crochet classes, outings, etc. In addition, they get a hot, nutritious meal every day. “Out of those same programs, volunteers deliver meals to seniors who are homebound to help them stay healthy and remain in their home as long as possible. Our volunteers are frequently the only contact some of these seniors have.” Ms. Firmender added, “I’m really interested in working cooperatively with other agencies in Aiken whenever possible. We are contractors for and partners with the Lower Savannah Council of Government in the operation of the Best Friend Express. We are already partnering with the Tri-Development Center through providing employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who provide janitorial services and wash our buses. In addition, we are exploring options to work together to provide travel training to help the individuals they serve access public transportation in order to have more independence in the community. We also partnered with Blackville School District 19 on the location of the Activity Center there. My philosophy is that we are all stronger together and the community benefits when agencies cooperate.”
bestfriendexpress.com
Both Locations have Flu Shots in Stock! $29.99
Catch the Bus at our new location! 148 Waterloo Street Aiken, SC
Medicare part B patients are covered at 100%...
Zero Copay!
Need to go to the Court House? Aiken Mall? Kalmia Plaza? The Hospital? Aiken Tech? USC Aiken? North Augusta? The Best Friend Express – Aiken County's Transit System – is your answer. Anyone can catch a ride on the Best Friend Express. When you see our bus, just flag us down. It's easy. We'll stop and pick you up and you're on your way.
For more information, please call Lower Savannah Council of Governments 803- 508-7033 or The New Best Friend Office 803-262-5305
aikenfamilypharmacy.com
Serving Aiken’s families for 29 years. 803.649.1776 333 Newberry St., NW 803.648.1776 110 Price Ave.
FPCLEANING.COM
Fresh Perspectives Residential and Commercial Cleaning Services LICENSED, INSURED, AND BONDED
Serving Aiken Since
2000
Let us help you come home to a house that welcomes you!
Deborah Birmingham, Owner housekpr5@aol.com
C ALL
(803) 439 - 6318
F O R A F R E E E S T I M AT E ! www.aikenwomanonline.com
15
Professional
Journey To Aiken: A Financial Advisor’s Story
My mother-in-law Miriam was barely 4’8” in her high heels and weighed just about 95 pounds. I quickly learned that it took no more than 10 seconds for this diminutive woman to take charge of any room. Had Miriam been born in 1967 rather than 1927, I’m convinced she would have held the position “Chairman of the Committee” rather than answering the chairman’s phone. In 2005, Miriam lost her husband Murray. While she had anticipated his death, she was completely unprepared for the long term decisions that would impact her financial security. The “Chairman” in Miriam vanished. Familiar tasks such as opening the bills and writing a check, were now sources of anxiety and could take hours of reassurance and assistance to complete. In January of 2010, my husband and I returned from a week-long visit with Miriam. After sorting through our mail, I walked into my husband’s office to lay letters on his desk. The top envelope caught my eye because it was addressed to both of us. I looked at the logo in the corner. I never bothered to open these envelopes. They contained the statements for our investment portfolio and my husband managed that responsibility. As I laid the envelope on his desk, I was stunned by the irony. Just like Miriam, I was uninvolved in our long term investing decisions. Why wasn’t I more involved in the decisions that impacted our financial security? At work, I managed the company’s exposure to risk, advised the CEO on business strategy, and oversaw training and deployment of thousands of employees. As a Human Resource Executive in a rapidly growing telecommunications company, my days were filled with critical decisions. At home, I listened to my daughter’s detailed account of her day while watching her twin brother shuffle papers in an attempt to convince me he was completing his homework. To be honest, by the time I finished refereeing their nightly battle for the bathroom, I was relieved to have my husband handle the investing decisions. When I realized the connection between Miriam and me, I knew I had laid that envelope on the desk for the last time. I decided I wanted to become as fluent and confident in the world of investing decisions as I was in other areas of my life. The next morning I told my husband that I wanted to earn my MBA. I was fortunate that both my husband and employer fully supported my goal. My husband took over homework patrol and gave me the gift of time to pursue my studies. The CEO began involving me in the company’s investing decisions while the CFO became an invaluable
16
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
Women
mentor. After completing my MBA, I continued my participation in the company’s investment decisions and began to investigate the differences between how men and women make financial decisions. The results of two particular studies would change the course of my career. The first study found that only 20% of women feel prepared to make wise financial decisions.1 That fact stunned me. Women’s lack of involvement was commonplace, regardless of generation, education or profession. The second study concluded that at some point in their lives, 90% of women will be solely responsible for their finances.2 These results inspired me to become a financial adviser with a special interest in educating women and preparing them to assume responsibility for their financial future. They can open their “investing envelopes” with confidence that their financial plans clearly address what they want most out of life. What else surprised you in the research? In 2015, women consider themselves no better prepared to make wise financial decisions than they did a decade ago. Only 21% felt very well prepared then and today it’s 20%3. The most recent generations, Millennial and Generation X women, are successfully advancing their careers and incomes. Yet, like earlier generations, they also leave investing decisions to their partners. Less than one in five participate in investment decisions4. Sometimes it’s not lack of knowledge that keeps women from getting involved. I’ve worked with a number of couples where the wife is an accounting or finance professional. There’s an “aha” moment when she realizes that despite her knowledge, she’s been opting out of the long term planning decisions. If most women today aren’t involved, how can they teach the next generation? Actually, learning alongside your daughter or granddaughter can be fun and inspiring. A woman who attended one of my workshops decided to start an “Investing Club” with her three Granddaughters. They laughed and learned together. Tell us about the workshop you wrote for women based on your studies of the difference between men and women’s financial decision-making. It’s called Women, Men and Money: What’s the Difference and Why it Matters. In the workshop, we talk about the unique challenges women face, the specific differences between how men and women make financial decisions and ways for women to get more involved. It’s a conversation where women gain valuable insight from one another based on their different ages and experiences. How can women increase their involvement? Many of us run loads of laundry before work and finish up e-mails after the kids are in bed. Rather than adding “long-term financial security” to your to-do list, combine learning with an enjoyable, social activity with
Professional friends or co-workers. You don’t need to disclose personal financial information to build your understanding of long term financial decision-making. Start with snack size portions. Less is more in terms of learning and retention. Invite a financial advisor to talk to a small group of friends or co-workers during lunch, over coffee or dessert. Set expectations that you don’t want a product pitch, you want to learn and you want it to be interesting! Don’t waste time trying to decipher investing jargon. The common cold is also called nasopharyngitis by medical professionals. Similarly, investing vocabulary can be unnecessarily confusing. Your financial advisor should be your translator and simplify what seems complex. Use him or her as a resource and coach. What brought you to Aiken? For the past seven years, my parents have been dividing their time between Pittsburgh and Aiken. They originally came to Aiken because of my Mom’s passion for horses. They discovered a gracious community and built a strong circle of friends. My Mom passed her love of horses on to me and my daughter. I grew up with pictures of horses hanging in every room of our home and the first mobile over my daughter’s crib was of horses. I thought building a practice in Aiken would be a wonderful way to increase the time I spend with my parents and pursue my love of horses. You work with your father. What’s it like working with a family member? My Dad has been an invaluable resource and business partner. He has been a wealth manager for over 40 years. During that time, he successfully steered clients through stormy and calm economic environments.
Equally important, he has built long term relationships with his clients. Some span several generations! I’m fortunate to be able to learn from his extensive experience. Best of all, I work with someone I love and respect. Has anything surprised you about Aiken so far? I knew it was a welcoming community but I didn’t realize how dog friendly it is here. When my twins went to college, our dog Rocky, became the youngest child in the family! Sources 1 Financial Experience & Behaviors Among Women, Prudential Research Study 2014-2015. 2 Women & Affluence, Women & Co 2010. 3 Financial Experiences & Behaviors Among Women, Prudential Research Study 2014-2015 4 Couples and Money: Who Decides, UBS Investor Watch, 2014. Laura Freedman is a Financial Advisor with UBS Financial Services Inc., 4000 Town Center, Canonsburg, PA 15317. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment advice. Investing involves risks and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of UBS Financial Services Inc. As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services. These services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate contracts. For more information on the distinctions between our brokerage and investment advisory services, please speak with your Financial Advisor or visit our website at ubs.com/workingwithus. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC.
Advice. Beyond investing. When life doesn’t go according to plan. Life hands us positive and painful changes. Relationships, careers, health, retirement and loss of loved ones don’t necessarily follow our plans. These changes can create a need for clear, informed financial decisions. As supportive and experienced wealth managers, we’ll help you make sound decisions today and solid plans for the future. Call 1-844-670-7779 for a complimentary one hour consultation. Southpointe Wealth Management UBS Financial Services Inc. 4000 Town Center Boulevard, Suite 100 Canonsburg, PA 15317 Pat Botula, First Vice President-Wealth Management and his daughter Laura Freedman, Financial Advisor
ubs.com/team/southpointewealthmanagement As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services. These services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate contracts. For more information on the distinctions between our brokerage and investment advisory services, please speak with your Financial Advisor or visit our website at ubs.com/workingwithus. ©UBS 2015. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. 7.00_Ad_7.75x4.9_8G0519_FreL
Professional
How Well Do you Know Your Mechanic? By: Carol A Ryall Photography by Lindsey Duncan
S
teve Young of Auto Tech, Inc. grew up in Aiken with a fascination for cars and learned the basics of auto mechanics working with his father. Over the years, he has learned a lot more. He owns Auto Tech, Inc. of Aiken and serves customers from Aiken, Augusta, Columbia and the surrounding areas. 18
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
Women
While Auto Tech, Inc. can and does gladly work on most makes of cars they specialize in Mercedes, BMW, Audi, Saab, VW and Jaguar. These cars require special expertise, equipment and parts, not readily available at most garages and mechanics shops. The ASE certified technicians at Auto Tech, Inc. can perform your scheduled and routine maintenance (such as oil changes) as well as repair your car’s engine and electrical systems. They also repair transmissions, air conditioning, do brake repairs and replacements, install and repair tires. They are a supermarket for your automobile. They have everything you need under one roof. There is no need to go one place for oil changes and another for brakes or transmissions. Steve Young’s staff at Auto Tech can take care of all your automotive needs and keep your car running good. I asked Steve what women, in particular, needed to know about car repairs. He said the most important thing is to have a mechanic you know, can trust and rely on. A full service garage that counts on repeat customers and referral business is probably your best bet.
the one most important thing to give your engine a long trouble-free life. Different models have different recommendations for frequency and type of motor oil to use. Follow your manufacturer’s recommendations, but don’t put it off and forget it. Clean oil saves you more money in the long run, than it costs you.
Label
Your One Stop Shop!
Paying attention to your tires is another item especially important for women, as well. You don’t want to be stranded alone on the highway somewhere with a flat or blowout. For your safety and peace of mind, make sure your tires have good tread and keep them balanced and rotated. Another important service offered by Auto Tech, Inc. that women who are “mechanically-challenged” (like me) will appreciate, is giving you an assessment of any car you are considering buying. They will check the whole car over from front to back and let you know what, if any, problems they find.
One thing he warned about is that if you fill your gas tank and forget to put the lid back on the gas tank, on many models the “Engine Trouble” light will come on. He has known of several cases where women were told they needed hundreds of dollars of repairs, when in reality the only thing that needed doing was putting the lid back on the gas tank! He recommended getting a second opinion on any suggested major repairs, if you don’t know the person making the recommendation well.
Whether you own one of the more exotic models, that are hard to find a knowledgeable mechanic for, or you are driving an everyday family sedan, you can rely on Auto Tech, Inc. to treat you fairly and to tell you the truth about what your car does and doesn’t need, both for routine and scheduled maintenance and for the repairs that come along with wear and tear. Auto Tech Inc. will give you an estimate of costs for any repairs needed and will not start work without your approval. They give you factory level service at a competitive price. They have the knowledge, experience, and latest diagnostic equipment to be able to handle whatever problems your car has.
I asked him what the most important things to do for our cars were. He said changing the oil on a regular basis is probably
Call Auto Tech today, to set up an appointment for your next maintenance or service appointment. www.aikenwomanonline.com
19
Professional
Proudly Supporting Our Community Achieving and sustaining financial success requires the stability and commitment of a financial partner you can trust. We take pride in being that partner that serves our community offering a full line of personal and business products to help meet any financial need. Call us at 803.649.4240 in South Carolina or 706.738.6990 in Georgia or stop by any of our conveniently located branches and find out what we can do for you!
Susan Yarborough Aiken County Executive Vice President
A Division of Georgia Bank & Trust
www.southernbandt.com www.georgiabankandtrust.com
Elite Training & Boarding
Prestigious C’est La Vie Farms not only offers elite boarding, but also individualized care, lessons and training in hunter/jumper and equitation disciplines.
Located on more than 60 acres of rolling pastures we offer six large paddocks for turnout, a large sand/fiber training arena with a 30-acre hunt course coming soon. The state-of-the-art barn includes ten 12'x12' matted stalls, a center aisle with rubber pavers, and tack room and lounge. Owner Jill Davies, a well-respected professional who showed for over 40 years on the east coast hunter/jumper circuit, offers personalized lessons to students at all levels of experience.
Call for rates & availability 803 Williston Way Williston, SC 29853
808-264-3627 MINUTES FROM AIKEN, THREE RUNS PLANTATION & THE AIKEN HORSE PARK
20
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
Women
Professional
Enjoy a Resort-Style Retirement Without the Sticker-Shock Choosing a retirement community shouldn’t feel like a car dealership. At Cumberland Village you will not suffer from sticker-shock:
» NO Expensive Buy-In » NO Non-Refundable Application Fees » NO Long-Term Commitment Finally enjoy your retirement in one of our independent patio-homes or apartments with all our resort-style amenities and services!
(803) 643-0073
3335 Wise Creek Lane | Aiken, SC 29801 Cumberland-Village.com
Starting OurMike Own& Ashley FamilyThomas Tree By Tracey Lease Photos by Joe Willis
22
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
Women
n his business, Mike Thomas knows what he’s doing. “We believe successful marketing happens with a full circle mindset.” He is the managing partner of South Company, a marketing firm in Aiken, SC. His best advice for a company just starting out? “Business is all about taking care of the People that work with you, the Product/Service you provide and the Process in how you operate.” But, re-read that first part…”business is all about taking care of the people that work with you”. In this writer’s life, I have had many jobs over the years. Some of them held true to this philosophy, some – not so much. Mike Thomas is going to test his co-workers and staff to see if they will hold true to this promise; he is due to become a father any day. He and his wife, Ashley, are expecting a baby to join their family, a little girl they will name Anders. Mike and Ashley live in Aiken, but he grew up in Winston-Salem, NC and Columbia. He attended the University of South Carolina with a degree in advertising. He and Ashley met through a mutual friend, but he says “Facebook helped, too!” (Sage advice from a marketing manager!) He mentioned that his spare time is just that – spare – but he does enjoy playing golf and tennis. The best advice he will pass on to little Anders? “Believe in yourself. In life, many people will say you cannot do things.
You make up your mind. Can you? Do you want to? Big challenges involve risks so make smart choices. Those who told me I couldn’t do certain things didn’t want me to do them. If you want something, it is nearly always possible, so do your best.” This may be some of the best advice for a new business owner, as well. South Company has been branding businesses for the last six years and if you take a quick look at their website, South-Company.com, you will see a long list
Believe in yourself. In life, many people will say you cannot do things. of their satisfied clients. “Full circle marketing is more than a beautiful logo. It’s a strategic approach to build and strengthen the entirety of your company’s band.” Their idea of a full-circle marketing campaign includes Branding and Media Buying, Public Relations, Event Staffing and Planning, Social Media Management, Website Development, and Networking. They get to know your company, your business, your values and goals. According to Mike, if a business “follows the plan South Company sets ahead for them, they should see changes
in their business recognition and/or growth in 3-6 months.” After I got this assignment, I did my due diligence before I interviewed Mike; I perused South Company’s website. There is a section on their home page “Our Values”. It has the following bullet points: Trust, Teamwork among employees and between South Company and our clients, Employee Self-Esteem, and Giving Back. Whoa! I am a huge advocate of “giving back”. But some other people’s definition of giving back is not the same as mine. So I asked Mike. “Giving back is to use my time, talents, and resources to be of service to someone else. Truly giving back is putting your personal agenda aside and doing the most good with what you have to give - regardless of how it makes you feel.” South Company has a program, “Creative Dash” that chooses one charity a year and will brand them in 24 hours – all you have to do is fill out the application from the link on their website. That’s a pretty good definition, in my opinion! So, that brings me back to that little bundle of joy that he and Ashley will most likely be snuggling with by the time this article hits the press. Mike’s favorite quote is, “You can’t do Life alone,” and as a parent, he will surely find out how accurate that quote is. As his family tree grows, this writer wants to wish him blessings, peace, and success in his home and work life.
www.aikenwomanonline.com
23
Marrinson Stables A LITTLE PIECE OF PARADISE NEAR AIKEN
By Carol A Ryall Photos By Deva Warren
TERRY HOUGHTON A native of Southern California, Terry has always been “horse crazy”. She wanted to be a veterinarian, and was accepted at Vet School, but funds weren’t available for her to go. Instead, she, and her horse went to Modesto Junior College where Terry studied Animal Science and became a Vet Tech. She started working with racehorses while she was still in college, found she was exceptionally good with the high-strung animals and quickly got hooked. She went back to school to study computer skills. In 1985, she migrated to Northern California, obtained her Thoroughbred trainers license and began working for the California Thoroughbred Trainers Association as an administrative assistant, as well. For the next twenty years, Terry worked at a variety of racetracks including Golden Gate Fields. Horse racing in California began to change, though when the state moved control over the sport from the Agriculture exemption to the Entertainment & Amusement category, which eventually led to many “political” changes. Horsemen in California were struggling, and Terry felt it was time to make a change. She had some good friends, Keri and Christine Ridgeway, who had moved to Aiken.
24
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
When Terry Houghton describes the lush, rolling pastures, hardwood forests and gentle streams which make up the 88 acres surrounding Marrinson Stables, it sounds like heaven. This beautiful landscape has miles of riding paths and buggy trails running through it. There are grass paddocks, a jump arena, and an Olympic-sized dressage ring on the grass to make it an equestrian’s dream-come-true.
They invited her to come “Check it out.” She visited for three days and fell in love with the town and its equestrian community. She promptly moved her legally blind mother, her husband suffering from the long-term ravages of ALS disease, and four children aged fourteen to twenty-two from California to Fox Pond Farm, about ten miles out from Aiken. For the next eight years, she worked with Mr. Campbell at Dogwood Stables, at Stonerside Stables and as an assistant trainer for Sheik Mohammed’s Darley stables. In 2007, her husband, Mike, finally succumbed to his illness. On June 6th this past summer, Terry remarried a wonderful man, Nils Pontenstein. They had an intimate carriage wedding with a small group of family and friends at Marrinson Stables. Three and a half years ago, when Mr. Marrinson needed a Manager for his Marrinson Stables, he told Terry he wanted no drama; he wanted Marrinson to be a peaceful place where people could come out and enjoy their horses. It sounds like she has been very successful in achieving Women
Equine Special Label
that goal. With 18 horses and 13 clients, they are close to full capacity. The boarders at Marrinson are a unique group of people who just want to enjoy their horses and appreciate the atmosphere. Although the riders are from differing disciplines and riding abilities, everyone is respectful of each other, ensuring a pleasant, harmonious atmosphere. Their mounts get superlative treatment with a top quality feed program from Terry and her staff. Blanketing, putting bandages on, etc. are just part of the top-notch service they provide. They are in touch with the owners frequently. With a Vet Clinic just down the road, and a farrier who comes in regularly, Marrinson Stables is a full-service facility with everything you and your horse might need. Terry Houghton had nothing but praise for her boss, Ralph A. Marrinson (also the owner of Marrinson Senior Residences) saying, “It’s pleasure to work with such an outstanding individual. He’s an asset to the Aiken Community, both as a business person and supporter of numerous civic programs, including the Aiken Steeplechase and the Wounded Warriors’ equine programs, among many others.”
Marrinson Stables Personalized Quality Care • Beautiful Trails Jump & Dressage Rings • Grass Paddocks $450 Per Month Full Board
Come Visit and Relax! Only 25 minutes from Downtown Aiken! 18 Foley Circle Contact Terry Houghton Ridge Spring, SC 29129 (803) 349 - 6008 marrinsonstables.com
Terry commented that their Ridge Spring address frequently makes people think they are much farther away than they are. In reality, Marrinson Stables is only about twenty-five miles from Aiken, which is about the same as Paradise Farms, Full Gallop and some of the other event locations. If you have been longing for peace, quiet and beauty, you are invited out to take a look at the nearby piece of paradise known as Marrinson Stables. Their address is 18 Foley Circle, Ridge Spring, SC 29129. For more information, call Terry Houghton at 803 349-6008. www.aikenwomanonline.com
25
Equine Special
S U L L I VA N SADDLERY
Just about Ever ything Equine You Need By Carol A Ryall
New businesses of any kind are a risky undertaking, and the vast majority fail within a relatively short time. Some, however, seem predetermined to grow - even more rapidly sometimes than their founder anticipated. Such is the story of Sullivan Saddlery. Lorrie Sullivan tells the story this way:
I’m originally from New Hampshire. At the age of 10, after a few pony rides, I started begging for a horse of my own. I got my first horse when I was 11 and started formal riding lessons. I competed at hunter/jumper shows and was very involved in 4H in NH. We moved to Florida in 1995. Selling my horse to make the move was devastating, but after a few months I found a 4H group and started right back into horses. I was a member of the West Volusia Saddle Club and showed english and western, barrels, poles, and team sorting. In 2002, I became a working student for a top dressage trainer and Olympic judge, Michael Poulin of Dressage Center, Inc., in DeLeon Springs, FL. I also had a part-time weekend job working as a groom. When my employer decided to move to Aiken, I moved as well. My future husband, Joe, who was a chef at the time, and I were already dating. Embracing change, he moved to SC, and changed careers as well to become an HVAC Service Technician. We got married, bought a house, and started our family. For the first time in many years, I didn’t have a horse of my own. After our second son was born, I deeply wanted to get back into riding and so I found a ‘project horse’. Having a horse brought me back in touch with my “horse friends” again. I quickly realized there was a need for equestrian services such as tack repair, blanket washing, etc.
26
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
so I started Horse Sense Plus. Soon I had clients asking me to help them sell their saddles or boots, whatever it was they didn’t need anymore. Before long the back of my Suburban didn’t have room for groceries anymore! I dedicated some space in the repair shop we had built on our farm to the “consignment items” I’d gathered. That space filled up rapidly; we got a storefront in town, which we swiftly outgrew; moved across the street and also outgrew that space. Now we have moved into our 5,000 square foot store on the 118 bypass, at 2142 University Parkway. Understanding how expensive this hobby can be, being able to help parents afford the equipment their children need is especially rewarding to us. We offer gently-used items at affordable prices. We have just about everything you can imagine for horses, riders, the barn and home décor. If we don’t have what you’re looking for, please ask. New merchandise comes in every day, so we keep computerized “Wish Lists” for our clients. When something wished for is added to our inventory, we’ll call and let you know. Another huge part of our business is in-house repair services for saddles, bridles, horse blankets, etc., and in-house equine laundry service for blankets and saddle pads.
Women
To work in this industry, you have to be knowledgeable about horses and riding. Our manager, Amy Knowles is amazing. She truly goes out of her way to help our customers find what they are need. From a good pair of breeches to finding that perfect fitting saddle, she makes sure you are happy with your selection. One thing I’ve learned is I can’t make everyone happy. I’m a perfectionist, but my house is very much lived in. There’s never an empty laundry basket, my stalls aren’t always neat and tidy, and frequently papers pile up on my desk. But my kids are happy, they have clothes on (sometimes pj’s), my horses are taken care of, and I always get to the stack of papers - just not quite to the bottom yet. I’ve learned that my time as valuable as anyone else’s, so I take time to spend with my kids. I’m very thankful I have someone like Amy at the store that I can rely on for those times. Please visit us for your holiday shopping. We are on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sullivansaddlery. Our website is www.SullivanSaddlery.com We’re open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 11-5, Saturday 11 – 3. We’re closed on Wednesday and Sunday. Our hours do change with the season, so check our Facebook page for up-to-date information.
Equine Spcieal
An Ounce of Prevention... is worth 300 lbs of Repairs So Come See us at Wayne’s Automotive and We Will Restore Your Head lights to the Brightest They Can Be.
ASKPATTY.COM
Certain restrictions apply. Not valid with any other offers.
1997 Richland Ave. E., Aiken • 803-649-0228 • waynesautomotivecenter.com
Sullivan Saddlery Aiken’s Premium Equestrian Exchange
Started in 2008 by Lorrie Sullivan, Sullivan Saddlery has grown to be one of the best and most unique equine stores around!
Stop by to see us today! Saddles | Horse Clothing | Apparel Stable Supplies | Grooming | Tack Consignment | Tack Repair
(803) 226 - 0664
2142 University Parkway Aiken, SC 29801 WWW.SULLIVANSADDLERY.COM www.aikenwomanonline.com
27
Equine Special
Suze Maze uses Horse Power to Help Veterans Heal By Carol A. Ryall
Originally from Hagerstown Maryland, Suze Mize literally grew up in the horse racing industry. Suze’s father, a successful owner/trainer around Maryland Tracks and Horse Fairs, had a small family breeding operation at their farm. Suze explained, “My mom passed when I was just two years old, so most of my life was spent out with the horses, (unsupervised, lol) getting to know horses on their level at a very early age!” aturally enough, she grew up wanting to be the first female jockey. Although Diane Crump beat her to it in 1969, she finally turned of age in the mid-70’s, going on to ride in over 400 races. Ms. Maze continued, “When the struggle to make daily weight finally took its toll, I turned to exercise-riding at tracks in New York, Aiken and Kentucky. I settled in Lexington, Kentucky during the boom of the eighties when the first Million Dollar Babies started to sell at Keeneland. “I was very fortunate to work for many of the top trainers passing through Keeneland each meet. I sales prepped and was show person at the sales than broke babies at many of the leading Kentucky Farms. The feeling you get sitting astride a champion racehorse is one I sorely miss. The memory haunts me to this day. I know I will never again come close to that ‘lightening in a bottle’ feeling!” During this time, she met her husband, a military man. When they were stationed overseas during the Gulf War, Suze was able to experience German Racing. Her love of the close-knit military life also began there while she was running Spouse Support Groups. Shortly after they returned to Kentucky, she suffered a career-ending ankle injury. She returned to school and earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work and went back to work with the Churchill Downs Lifestyle Program, as a
28
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
Suze Maze with her horse Big Bang
therapist and addiction counselor. Suze related, “This was when I discovered Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and became certified with EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association.) I had great success using EAP with probation/parole groups, autism and severe mental health disorders with my program Broader Horizons Counseling. “When the Wounded Warrior Programs were being set up during the start of the Iraq War, it was a natural progression for me to return to the Aiken area working with Soldiers who had been injured on the battlefield. From there I moved to the VA where I work today. I’ve also a become certified by PATH, (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship), which has a partnership with The Wounded Warrior Program that provides free therapy for soldiers and Veterans with PTSD related issues. “My program H.O.P.E. Inc (Horses Offering People Empowerment) is based mostly in Augusta just outside Ft. Gordon’s Gate 2, with a smaller satellite program located in Aiken.” “At HOPE we work not only with Veterans suffering from PTSD but also with Veterans and their families who may be having problems with reunification or other areas. The therapy is not about riding or learning about horsemanship. The horse becomes a prop to symbolize different things. He might be anger, or another person, represent home or the base, or a
Women
situation. Each case is entirely different and unscripted. We follow where the client leads us. The client controls the environment and is free to move about and explore solutions he and the horse discover together. “Horses are prey animals,” Suze explained. “Because of that, they are outstanding at reading body language and feeling your emotions. They can feel your energy and register your heart rate.You may say, ‘ I’m not angry’ but the horse won’t cooperate if you’re lying. He can feel your anger, even if you don’t show it outwardly. “Another advantage to our program is that the therapy is held under a covered arena, outside, in a soldier’s natural environment. Because we are not sitting in an office or a clinical setting, our clients can yell and scream and act in other ways that would not be appropriate inside.” Lynn Thomas, founder and Executive Director of EAGALA and a licensed clinical social worker, has stated, “Horses provide an ideal metaphor for human relationships. They have the ability to serve as a mirror for human body language. They read the client’s non-verbal communication and react to it. They don’t change their behaviors until the clients change.” If you are a Veteran, who thinks they would have a hard time talking with a counselor, maybe you should consider contacting Suze Maze about visiting with one of her horses. Seriously.
Equine Special
Lori Peacock Knows the ART of Pain Relief
By Carol A Ryall Photos By Deva Warren
Lori Peacock, the owner of Versa Therapies, is the ideal physical therapist for an equine community like Aiken. She does therapy for both horses and humans, frequently together!
horse and rider. For some years, Lori and her husband, Ken, had come to Aiken for several weeks each winter. In 2010, when Ken retired, she again sold her business, and they moved to Aiken permanently.
Lori grew up in Pennsylvania, loving and riding horses. She rode a number of mounts who were difficult and, over time, she came to the conclusion that a lot of the problems originated from the fact that the horses were sore. At that time, saddles were basically made one-size-fitsall, which they didn’t do. For a horse, wearing an ill-fitting saddle with a rider on top would be like you’re wearing a 4-inch spike heel shoe that was two sizes too small. Lori designed and patented a Therapeutic Saddle Pad for horses. It displaced about 2,000 lbs. of pressure per square inch. These Pads alleviated much of the pain and soreness, and consequently the problematic behavior for many horses. She ultimately sold that business and went back to school to become a physical therapist. Following school, Lori opened an outpatient physical therapy office, which did quite well. Foreseeing the coming complications with insurance and health care, she sold this practice and then began going to peoples’ homes and farms, (focusing on wellness and injury prevention on a fee-for-service basis.) She was treating many horse people. Typically, when a rider is stiff, their horse can also be stiff and sore. Her business evolved into providing therapy for both the
Once here, Ms. Peacock recognized a need to prevent on-the-job injuries among workers in the area. She opened Versa Therapies to address those needs. She has contracts with manufacturing facilities and small businesses across the state. (Dentists’ and dental hygienists are another major category of clients because they spend most of their day bending over.) Using the latest technology, she pinpoints areas of concern at workstations. She then develops an approach with the Company to ultimately reduce these risks: to increase good postural positions and restore more normal movement patterns. These proven methods can relieve the pain and stiffness caused by the repetitive movements frequently present in these jobs. Concerning repetitive movements, Lori commented, “What many people don’t realize is that a static position is the very worst repetitive motion!” She next teaches them the best way to move to accomplish what they need to do, without creating further stress or strain on their muscles and joints. She is also available for on-or-offsite movement re- training, manual therapy or training consults. This pro-active, preventive approach saves the employees many hours of pain and discomfort, and their employer both lost money and man-hours; a real win-win solution.
As if that weren’t enough to do, this peripatetic bundle of energy still keeps a few riders and horses as private clients, as well as offering intensive two-day Clinics for horse owners and their horses. The mounts and riders are each evaluated for movement, range of motion, how they walk and any anomalies. From there, the movement or movements are broken down into different movement patterns. After receiving some manual body work and being taught body awareness, the clients are empowered to be able to continue to work on these issues at home. Ms. Peacock explained, “When you understand what you need to do, and why you need to do it that way, it spurs you on to do it correctly. The motivation and compliance factor is close to 100%.” If you are a business owner, a stiff horse owner, or just a sore out-of-shape individual, Lori Peacock has the expertise and experience to help you improve your life, your horse’s life or your employees’ comfort and productivity. Call her at Versa Therapies today, 803-275-7675.
Ms. Peacock is certified in Active Release Techniques (ART), a patented, state-of-the-art soft tissue system/movement based massage technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves. This demanding course of study requires frequent ongoing education. The treatments are available through only a select few providers (currently only about five in the entire State of South Carolina.) www.aikenwomanonline.com
29
Equine Special
Keep Pace® - A Step Ahead in Feed for
your Horse!
By Amy DoBranski Photos By Deva Warren My introduction to equine nutrition came in the form of dire necessity. In the late 1990’s, my best horse, an eighteen-year-old Thoroughbred, suddenly developed metabolic problems. Specifically, he suffered insulin resistance, before those words were usually associated with the equine. As a result, he developed laminitis that can be life-threatening at its worst, but in its initial stages leaves the horse miserably limping around the pasture and unrideable. Working with my local veterinarian we found medications that made him more comfortable but they did not heal the problem. Not being on pasture or allowed to have his usual ration of pellets, he dropped weight rapidly. Despite working diligently with my vet and farrier for over a year, we were no closer to curing his ailment. I suspected that his feed might be the problem, since every time we reintroduced it his symp-
30
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
toms flared up again. His veterinarian commented that they didn’t cover equine nutrition adequately in vet school, so I was off and running. After contacting several equine nutritionists and doing a massive amount of reading and investigation, I realized that horses are not able to digest grains efficiently. Their digestive system is designed to ferment fibers like grass and hay instead. Who would have thought my pellets contained chopped up grains? Within one week of being put on a grain-free diet, my horse was off his meds and improving rapidly. He gained back all 200 pounds in just three months. His improvement was so dramatic on the new diet that I quickly switched my entire barn to grain-free living. Being an innovator and science major, I quickly realized improvements were needed in the commercial feed market. In 2007, after much research, Keep Pace®, a totally grain-free, molasses-free feed was launched. Locally milled, it
Women
has become a favorite among horse owners in Georgia and South Carolina. Fourteen dealers are now carrying the product in their stores. It is suitable for horses of all ages from foals on up. Many goat owners have discovered they do great on it as well; eliminating the need for the medicated feeds that dominate the market. Horse owners quickly notice improvements in coat condition and behaviors within a few weeks. I always enjoy getting their feedback and testimonies about the positive changes Keep Pace® has made. Pictured is my 30-year-old Thoroughbred, Loren, who looks and acts like a ten-year-old. She has been grain-free since the age of 11 and loves her Keep Pace® feed! She still gallops in like a young filly every morning for breakfast. Now that puts a smile on my face! Visit us at KeepPaceFeed.com for more information and list of dealers.
Health & Wellness
Smart Plan™ A Healthy Living Life Style By Amy DoBranski Photos By Deva Warren
Smart Plan™ originated with my desire to lose weight and feel better. Traveling every week for my job as an equine dental tech was getting the best of me. My poor food choices led to severe weight gain over several years. I was taking good care of the horses, but not myself! I also wanted to avoid the inevitable lifestyle diseases that obesity and poor eating habits cause. Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, heart disease, heartburn, restless leg syndrome, anxiety, snoring and auto-immune disorders - the list is long, but avoidable with a healthy lifestyle. Vanity undoubtedly played a part also. I didn’t want to be middle-aged and invisible! Who doesn’t want to wear a pair of skinny jeans?
The first year alone I lost five jean sizes. The second year, two more sizes fell off effortlessly. All the while I was eating delicious foods and never skipping dessert. At age 56 I now have more energy than when I was 18 years old, and my aches and pains are a thing of the past! Envious friends and customers insisted I tell them how I did this without dieting. Those conversations evolved into the Smart Plan™ eating plan and our Smart Chats.
Lacking willpower and not wanting to practice portion control was another huge issue for me. I love food and lots of it. I even considered food delivery programs. I was that desperate. But that’s cardboard food in a cardboard box, otherwise known as portion control of processed foods. We all know what happens when those boxes stop arriving at your doorstep! I wanted lasting results. How many times have we all deprived ourselves on a diet and then gained it all back again? That is just too discouraging and very unhealthy for our bodies.
Schedule a half-day Smart Chat for you and your friends. We will teach you how to follow the delicious Eating Plan centered around whole, healthy, delicious foods. We also provide lunch so you can sample some of the great tasting foods on our menu. The cost for a half day Smart Chat is $195 including lunch and two booklets. Spouses and children may attend for half-price. (If you host a Smart Chat and have five friends come, there is no charge for you.) Staples boxes are provided for sale at cost (approximately 25 items ) so participants can
start the next day, if desired, without having to source all those items that they might not have in their kitchen. These include raw cacao, raw cacao nibs, raw honey, various nut flours, kelp, organic figs and apricots, various nuts for energy bars, organic almond and peanut butters, etc. Participants can join the Smart Chat Community for continued support and sharing. They get the first 30 days for free after attending a Smart Chat. Cost per month is $14.95. There are 12 simple tips to follow on Smart Plan™. When you finish a Smart Chat, you will start changing your relationship with food and start changing your lifestyle to a healthier you. Every week I receive phone calls from Smart Plan™ members. I love hearing about their renewed vitality and success. Visit us at www. SmartPlanForHealthyLiving.com for more information and upcoming Smart Chat dates, or call Amy DoBranski, Nutrition Coach at 803649-5546.
A lifestyle change was in order. This time would be different. This time, there would be no finish line. It had to be a permanent and easily sustainable plan. Like everyone else, I had limited spare time or energy at the end of long busy days. I needed to devise a balanced eating plan – not a diet – which I could live with for continued success the rest of my life. I spent years reading nutrition and diet books by authors like Weston Price and Adelle Davis. I finally came to the realization that to control what ingredients were in my food, I would have to learn to cook using only whole foods. Whole foods would become the basis of this anti-inflammatory eating plan. And so the journey began. www.aikenwomanonline.com
31
Health & Wellness
Aiken Regional Encourages Women to “LIV® Now. Live Later.” Aiken Regional Medical Centers is dedicated to meeting the health needs of the entire community. According to the US Census Bureau, Aiken County will grow by 3.8 percent in population by 2019, 3.5 percent of which will be women. And by 2014, the county’s population of women between the ages of 25 and 39 increased by more than seven percent. Just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, the hospital’s LIV Now – Live Later program offers a fun and interactive way to encourage breast health for women between the ages of 18 and 39, before annual screening mammogram recommendations begin.
Easier Self-Exams for Early Detection LIV Now – Live Later is offered through Aiken Regional’s WE: Women Enlightened for Better Health program. The WE program helps women navigate the tools and resources needed to keep them and their families healthy. WE is a network of women of all ages who take a proactive approach to their health. Because breast cancer can strike at any age, the American Cancer Society recommends monthly breast self-exams beginning at age 20. To make these exams easier, WE members receive a free LIV® Breast Awareness Aid. The LIV aid, developed by breast cancer survivor and advocate Olivia Newton John, helps women more easily detect breast changes and abnormalities through self-exams. The aid is a heartshaped pouch filled with gel that molds to the skin, enhancing the touch for a more accurate exam. 32
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
LivNowLiveLater.com Young women (and women of all ages) can visit LivNowLiveLater.com to become a WE member and receive a free LIV breast self-examination aid. The website features young breast cancer survivor stories, education, photographs and more. WE members enjoy the personalized services of a nurse navigator to assist with appointments, referrals and health information. Members also receive a quarterly Quality of Life newsletter and discounts on Aiken Regional-sponsored health seminars.
Getting Involved New WE members attend an orientation program where they meet
Women
the nurse navigators, learn about WE benefits and the LIV aid, and take a tour of the facility. Orientation even includes a healthy meal. Becoming a member of WE and joining the LIV Now. Live Later. movement is easy. Women can simply visit www. livnowlivelater.com and fill out a WE application. Share your photos on Facebook with #LivNowLiveLater. 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.
Health & Wellness WE FOCUS ON YOUR PHYSICAL WELLNESS: WHETHER FOR WORK SITUATIONS, SPORT, OR EVERYDAY LIFE.
WE SPECIALIZE IN: MOVEMENT ASSESSMENT AND RETRAINING
WELCOME DR. BERRIDGE!
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
CORPORATE/WORK WELLNESS AND INJURY PREVENTION ACTIVE RELEASE TECHNIQUES E RGONOMIC ASSESSMENTS
Dr. SHERRI LITTLE, Au.D. REFERRED BY PHYSICIANS | TRUSTED BY PATIENTS
Call for a Hearing Evaluation WWW.VERSATHERAPIES.COM INFO@VERSATHERAPIES.COM | (803)-716-9167
MOVE FORWARD Merging Diagnosis & Pain Relief SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
November is Pancreatic Cancer Month
39-A Varden Drive | Aiken, SC | 803-641-6104 HEARINGASSOCIATESOFSC.COM
Let Our Family Become A Part Of Yours 420 Hitchcock Parkway Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 648 - 6400 HUSBAND AND WIFE TEAM DRS. MICHAEL AND SUSANNAH SHIRER WILL CARE FOR YOUR DENTAL NEEDS IN A COMFORTABLE AND GENTLE ENVIRONMENT.
SHIRER FAMILY DENTISTRY OFFERS GENERAL AND COSMETIC DENTAL SERVICES FOR ALL MEMBERS OF YOUR
William E. Durrett, M.D.
FAMILY FROM GRANDPARENTS TO
CHILDREN AND EVERYONE IN BETWEEN!
Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, & Interventional Pain Medicine
aikenpain.com | 803.642.6500
www.ShirerFamilyDentistry.com
Health & Wellness
Center For Dentistry Adds a New Dentist Leah Wilkins Married couples share many things, such as homes, vehicles or meals. But not many married couples also share an office. After recently joining the team at Center for Dentistry, Leah Wilkins can now officially refer to her husband, Tal Wilkins, as her coworker.
eah is no stranger to the dental profession. Her father is also a dentist, so she had the opportunity to learn about dentistry from a young age. However, Leah says she never felt pressured to become a dentist. In fact, she didn’t decide to be one until college. “In college, I shadowed many physicians who encouraged me to follow in my Dad’s footsteps,” Leah said, “so I shadowed dentists and dental specialists, and eventually, after making it to my first clinical year in dental school, I knew I had been given great advice because I loved dentistry, and I knew it was exactly what I was meant to do.” After graduating, Leah worked with her dad for ten years. “It was the perfect support system,” Leah explains, “my family understood exactly what it was like to be a dentist, and working in the same field definitely drew us closer together.” In regards to being a woman in the dentistry field, Leah says she never experienced a significant obstacle due to her gender, but she does believe that woman bring a softer side to the dental workforce. “Women tend to be more compassionate, and some patients prefer to see a female doctor rather than a male,” said Leah. Leah and her husband have two children, a son, Witt, age eight, and daughter, Loren, age 5. As a mother, Leah says dentistry is the perfect job, because she gets to be her own boss and set a flexible schedule. Leah balances her busy working schedule by making physical fitness a priority in her life. “When I get up in the morning, I go to Crossfit,” said Leah, “It wakes me up and sets the pace for the day. “ Doing something mentally and physically 34
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real
Women
challenging allows her to begin her day with an attitude of accomplishment. Leah and her family moved from North Augusta, SC to Aiken, SC three years ago. In between her days as a mother and doctor, she also serves lunch at St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic School where both her children attend, and works hard to make St. Mary’s annual Chocolate Festival a success. She attends St. John’s United Methodist Church in Aiken, and also serves as the president elect of the Central District Dental Society, a subsidiary of the South Carolina Dental Association, which is a seven-year-long commitment. Leah couldn’t be happier with her new position at the Center for Dentistry and looks forward to investing in the practice. “Center for Dentistry is a great family with fantastic coworkers, and wonderful patients. Everyone works hard and pulls their weight, and it has been an amazing experience to come in and be so welcomed by everyone.” For more information about the Center for Dentistry, visit them online at aikendental.com, or follow them on Facebook at Facebook.com/AikenCenterForDentistry.
Health & Wellness
Our Services will make you Smile
Comprehensive Dentistry Full Periodontal Program Gum Surgery | Dental Implants IV Sedation
Amy DoBranski • Nutrition Coach • 803-649-5546
Want to lose www.SmartPlanForHealthyLiving.com weight and feel better without dieting, portion control, counting calories or food points? Without skipping dessert? Smart Plan™ delivers an enjoyable eating plan for weight loss and a renewed sense of well being. No willpower needed! Smart Plan™ takes a whole foods approach to your relationship with food and your health by changing your lifestyle. You will never have eaten so well and youʼll have fun, too!
Upcoming Smart Chats Saturday, January 16 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday, February 7 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Dr. Tal Wilkins DMD, FAGD Dr. Leah Wilkins DMD
aikendental.com
Smart Chats are scheduled for groups of 5-10 people in your area. Invite four of your friends and attend for free! Spouses and children over the age of 16 are half price. Lunch is provided so you can sample the delicious foods on the Smart Plan™ Eating plan.
Amy DoBranski • Nutrition Coach • 803-649-5546
1391 Silver Bluff Rd. • Aiken, SC • (803) 648-9461
www.SmartPlanForHealthyLiving.com
VOL 1, NO 4 COMPLIMENTARY
WINTER 2013 COMPLIMENTARY
VOL 1, COMPLI
NO 2
Y MENTAR
MOTIVATING, CELEBRATING, Real WOMEN AND EDUCATING
CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING Real WOMEN
TM
ATING, G, MOTIV WOMEN CELEBRATINATING Real TM AND EDUC
TM
SIR IVIN BIGG SPUR SURV ING and THRIV
Did you miss our Summer issue? Find previous issues online:
Mary and Ron share their “Labor of Love” for the real shares her live Gamecock Cherie Nettles inspirational journey
s Johnsonangetce Paigeew Ch
at LIFE
aN
EMES EXTR overs KEOVER make MA several personal feature We – from ! in this issue landscapes health to
M OO ZEA TON H
pounding local Com Meet your of Custom ders, LLC Pharmacist n Compoun Prescriptio
FAITH G the NGINwith CHA FOUR NELS Your Mind and YOUR LIFE Daniel and Stephanie discuss the recent diagnosis of their son weight Achieve long term management by changing your diet your habits, NOT
www.aikenwomanonline.com
n E LOCAL NelsoCOUPL Barbara GIV ES BAC Meet Everett and Shannon
K
Chandler
www.aikenwomanonline.com
35
A Personal Note
B
y the time some of you read this, it will be my favorite season. Those old dog days of summer will have passed and we will hopefully be enjoying some good mild South Carolina weather. Football is going on everywhere. All our local teams and our national favorites will be in full swing, hunters will be hunting, the State Fair will come to the Midlands and leave again. There will be bon fires, barbecues, roasted marshmallows, and this fall there will be wins and losses. There will be successes and failures and through it all we will show up at community events and support one another. We will talk “trash” on Facebook between the Garnet and Orange but we will sit together with our neutral colors on come Sunday morning and laugh and joke about Saturday’s games at Sunday afternoon dinner. We will do all this because people who love each other can disagree and still be friends. We may not even like each other very much at times but we still love each other. In the past year I have been both ashamed and very proud of our State. We have watched as senseless acts of violence around the country have divided us, grieved us, opened old wounds and made us angry. We have also watched a community in Charleston take hate and return love. We saw the faces of beautiful people in various stages of life cut down and then saw the compassionate faces of love and forgiveness address the state, local and national media. Charleston.. oh Charleston. In life there are things that happen that are beyond our control, both good and bad things. While we can’t control those things, we can control the way we respond to them. If we chose positive or negative it is still our choice and our consequences. I have taught my children this principal since they were very small. Yes, I celebrate every success they have, big or small. I post pictures of the least of their accomplishments. They are not perfect children. They are simply loved, cherished, and appreciated children. However, each of them know they are personally responsible for their actions. In our home we have a rule. No playing the blame game. If your socks are on the floor. They are your socks. You pick them up. Even if your brother or sister knocked them off the sofa or out of a basket, they are your socks, you pick them up. What if we all accepted responsibility for our own actions? What if we all worked hard for everything we accomplished and wanted and checked our sense of entitlement before we left our homes? What if we all got up each morning with a sense of determination to make today better than yesterday, not just for ourselves but for everyone in our circle of influence? What if we all took a little time to understand what someone else might be struggling with? What if we all used words of compassion and not hate? What if we all tried to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes before we spoke ill of them or wrote them off? Would there be less murders? Would there be less crime in general? These are just my personal thoughts. Pondering’s of a woman who has recently witnessed some of the best of humanity in action and some of the worst. I love Lexington . I have since I moved here. People have been inordinately kind to me. I am often shocked to find out something that has happened so close because I simply can’t believe that happens where we live. So people would say I am naive. If so, I wear that title with honor. I never want to look at the late night news and become numb to what I see. I would just ask that you join me in praying for our community, our schools, our teachers, our administrators, and our local politicians for wisdom and discernment. I wish each of you reading this happiness and health for years to come. Your friend,
36
Let love be without hypocrisy Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; Romans 12:9-10
Business & Web Directory Advertising A is for Advertising ..................................................5 www.aisforadvertising.tv Arts & Entertainment Colonial Cup.............................................................2 www.carolina-cup.org Art By Susan McCarty...........................................5 www.susanmccarty-art.com Automotive Services Auto Tech, Inc. ....................................................... 19 www.aikenautotechinc.com Wayne’s Automotive & Towing Center............ 27 www.waynesautomotivecenter.com Banking Georgia Bank & Trust ......................................... 20 www.georgiabankandtrust.com Cleaning Services Fresh Perspectives................................................ 15 www.fpcleaning.com Dentist Shirer Family Dentistry ....................................... 33 www.shirerfamilydentistry.com Center for Dentistry ............................................ 35 www.aikendental.com
Healthy Living Bee Healthy..............................................................3 www.beehealthyclinics.com Smart Plan............................................................. 35 www.smartplanforhealthyliving.com Home Services Aiken Flooring ....................................................... 12 www.aikenflooring.com Hotels Comfort Suites.........................................................7 www.comfortsuiteslexington.com Insurance State Farm Hannah Clark ................................. 12 www.SFagentHannah.com Pharmacy Aiken Family Pharmacy ...................................... 15 www.aikenfamilypharmacy.com Photography Deva Andrews-Warren Photography .............. IFC www.deva-warren-wrdd.squarespace.com Real Estate Nancy Cerra.......................................................... 12 www.nancycerra.com
Education Carolina Academy of Music .................................7 www.carolinaacademyofmusic.com
Resturants Red Bowl ...................................................................5 www.redbowlaiken.com
Equine Shopping & Services C’est La Vie ............................................................ 20 Aiken Saddlery...................................................... 20 www.aikensaddlery.com Marrinson Stables ............................................... 25 www.marrinsonstables.com Sullivan Saddlery .................................................. 27 www.sullivansaddlery.com Core Equus ............................................................ 27 www.core-equus.com
Retirement Living Cumberland Village .............................................. 21 www.cumberland-village.com
Financial Planning Edward Jones ........................................................ 12 www.edwardjones.com Ameriprise ............................................................. 15 www.ameripriseadvisors.com UBS Financial Services ....................................... 17 www.ubs.com/southpointemanagement
Shopping Sears Homestore ................................................. 11 Thru Time and Ages ............................................ 11 www.ameripriseadvisors.com
Health Services Aiken Regional Medical Centers ...... Back Cover www.aikenregional.com Synergy HomeCare ............................................. 19 www.synergyhomecare.com Hearing Associates of South Carolina ............ 33 www.hearingassociatesofsc.com The Pain & Brain Center ................................... 33 www.aikenpain.com Versa Therapies .................................................... 33 www.versatherapies.com Carolina Heart and Vascular Center............... 35
Salons Salon Trale.................................................................5 Studio South .............................................................5 Epona on Laurens ............................................... 11 www.eponaonlaurens.com Gallery J .................................................................. 11
Transportation Best Friend Express............................................. 15 www.bestfriendexpress.com
Column By Pastor Sonya Mazzell
Times of Reflection Throughout each year I take what I call, “Times of Reflection.” I set aside a week dedicated to particular themes of thought that inspire my Christian walk. For example, with the Holiday Season approaching, at what seems to be warped speed, I take a week in November and call it “Thoughts of Thanksgiving”. I awake each morning for 7 days with focused prayer. I ask the Lord to give me His thoughts, ideas and inspiration. I take 30 minutes following prayer to lookup thanksgiving scriptures and journal verses that touch my heart. This year, God is really speaking to me. He is urging me to take this time of thanksgiving and let it consciously transform my life into thankful living. True thanksgiving invokes thoughts that dig deep into our heart. When we reflect on the people who share our life and we allow those thoughts to move us with emotions of appreciation, it produces in us a grateful heart. Thanksgiving happens when we put our appreciation into words and share them with God and the people that make a difference in our life. Thankful living goes one step beyond thanksgiving, it puts words into action. Thankful living says,” I am so appreciative of my heavenly father and the people that share my life that I will consciously, with purpose and planning, notice the needs of others and respond to those needs”. Thankful living can be as involved as volunteering in your community or as simple as noticing the countenance of others. Many people experience heartache and hardship, but praise the Lord; we can make a difference through thankful living! ~ Pastor Sonya www.aikenwomanonline.com
37
Focused on Women’s Health & Wellness an Aiken Regional Medical Centers Women’s Health Initiative
Aiken Regional offers a special program just for women called Women Enlightened for Better Health ( ). We know that you live full, busy lives, so the program strives to make it easy to navigate the tools and resources you need to keep you and your family healthy.
we
HEALTHY DECISIONS, MADE EASIER
we
members take advantage of many benefits, from special events to a regular newsletter. As a member, you can expect:
we
Personalized guidance from a nurse navigator. They can help you find providers, get health information and referrals, and help you make the most of Aiken Regional’s services.
we
Special deals. You can attend Aiken Regional-sponsored educational classes at a reduced price.
Health news updates. Get the latest health and nutrition information, fitness class schedules and information on members-only events. You’ll get this information at aikenregional.com/ , through emails and the quarterly Quality of Life newsletter.
we
Taste of Wellness portal. There you will find support for making better choices when it comes to food, exercise and nutrition. Packed with health information, the portal also features healthy recipes, and cooking and fitness videos.
we
JOIN THE SISTERHOOD TODAY! and fill out an application online. Visit aikenregional.com/ We can arrange your new member orientation and a tour.
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. 150074