Aiken Woman Vol 6 No 1

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Volume 6 No. 1

COMPLIMENTARY

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING WOMEN

Real

Southern Bank and Trust

Spring Cleaning Your Finances


All Natural Light Studio and On Location Photographer www.marybethsphotography.com 803-634-0596


in this issue... From the Editor www.aikenwomanonline.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lori Samples Duncan loriduncan86@gmail.com

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES Cathy Williams cw@woman2womanonline.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lori Samples Duncan Carol Ryall Tracey Lease Tina Bulloch Melissa Birdsong

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Lisa Ashworth woman2womanlisa@gmail.com

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New Year, New People

Events 3

What’s Happening?

Recipes 4 White Cheddar, Green Apple, & Pomegranate Flatbread 24

Dark Chocolate Irish Cream Brownies

Professional 6 Aiken Saddlery - Life With A Horse 8 Smart Financial Moves for Women 11 Southland Driving Academy Keeping Them Safe

14 Stopping Animal Abuse and Neglect

Feature 22 Southern Bank and Trust: Love Will Keep Us Together

Health & Wellness 24 What Men Don’t Want Women to Know 26 Aiken Regional Encourages Women to “LIV Now. Live Later.”

Personal Note 28 Family is Where the Heart Is

Business & Web Directory 29 Contact our Advertisers 29 Forget the Past and Press On

Deva Warren Photography Mary Beth’s Photography

INFORMATION

Pets

Pastor Sonya’s Column

PHOTOGRAPHY

info@lexingtonwomanonline.com

Label

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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

www.aikenwomanonline.com

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From the Editor

It’s a New Year, and that means another year of celebrating, motivating, and educating real women! Make this year count by following through with all of your New Years Resolutions. Whether it be to eat healthier, make progress in your career, spend time with family, or volunteer more in your community, now is a better time than ever to improve upon yourself! This issue is very special, and one reason is because of our cover story featuring Georgia Bank and Trust These five women featured on our cover have a passion for people, and it shows through their work with GB&T. Read all about their commitment for the community and also learn what you need to know about how to best understand and solve all your financial needs. Many other professional women are featured in this issue as well. Amy Hebert with Aiken Saddlery shares her love of horses with many other people in Aiken and her passion for her business is one that others can relate to. Read about Sherrie Johnson, who started Southland Driving Academy to give back by helping teenagers in high school learn the importance of auto safety. As always, I want to remind our readers that the businesses within Aiken Woman Magazine have made a commitment to always offer quality products and services to the people of this community. Make sure to visit them online or in their store and let them know where you heard about them. It is through their support that AWM is able to bring you the stories of real Aiken Women in every single issue. If you would like to send us a story or suggest someone that you think should be featured in Aiken Woman Magazine, please feel free to email me personally at loriduncan86@gmail.com. God Bless and See you next time! Your friend,

Lori Samples Duncan

Proverbs 16:24 Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

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Events

in Aiken? 1st Annual 4 Leaf Clover 4k Friday, March 18, 2016 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Downtown Aiken

Race will be held on Friday, March 18th at 6pm in Historic Downtown Aiken. The race will benefit the ADPS Police Benevolent Fund. The race will begin on the Newberry St. Bridge and finish on Newberry St. by the fountain. Following the race will be a medals ceremony, raffle drawings and entertainment provided by a local band – 40 Going North right in The Alley. Restaurants in The Alley will also be involved. www.active.com

Aiken Trials Saturday, March 19, 2016 10:00 a.m. Aiken Training Track

Begun in 1942 as a way to give young horses in training the enlightening opportunity to experience every aspect of live racing, the Aiken Trials has become a time honored tradition as the first leg of Aiken’s Triple Crown events, held annually for three consecutive Saturdays in March. There are six races on the program. The jockeys are local exercise riders who have an afternoon in the spotlight after paying their dues exercising horses each morning (in all weather) throughout the year. Occasionally a trainer has brought in a licensed jockey to compete; making some exciting competition for the exercise riders! www.aikentrials.com

Wine Country Saturday, March 19, 2016 3:45 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. James Brown Arena

Get ready to Wine, Dine & Un-wind! Kicks 99 and the James Brown Arena bring you the 1st Annual Augusta Food & Wine Festival – Wine Country. Come explore more than 30 incredible wines paired with the BEST bites from some of the CSRA’s favorite restaurants. AND..when you’ve had your fill of food and drink, Kicks 99 wants you to sit back and relax by capping it all off with a special acoustic performance by Nashville artist Craig Morgan! This is an evening you don’t want to miss – Wine, Food, Live Music and so much more! www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com/ aec_events/wine-country/

Colonial Times: Under the Crown & Trades Fair Friday, April 16 - Saturday, April 17, 2016 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. N. Augusta Living History Park

It is 1780 and the colonies are in rebellion. Charleston is under Siege and may have already fallen, the rebel forces were defeated at Savannah last year in 1779. Things are not going well for the American cause. But the Rebels are not done yet! The weekend will be filled with new ways to learn and experience the history of Augusta and North Augusta. Historical reenactors will be at the Living History Park to allow a glimpse of the period of the American Revolution. Colonial Trades Fair: Local and regional artists will display their artwork and have items available for sale. www.colonialtimes.us/undercrown.html

Horses & Courses Art Walk Tuesday, April 5, 2016 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Downtown Aiken

Downtown Aiken will be the place to be on April 5th during Masters’ Week! The 5th Annual Horses and Courses Event, sponsored by the City of Aiken Arts Commission, City of Aiken Parks, Recreation & Tourism Department, the Aiken Artist’s Guild and the Aiken Downtown Development Association, will take place from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. There will be visual artists displaying paintings, sculptures and jewelry as well as numerous performing artists. Artwork will be on display for viewing and purchasing inside and outside many downtown restaurants and businesses. www.visitaikensc.com

building a

LEGACY Where Champions Start

aikentrials.com

March 19, 2016


Professional

DARK CHOCOLATE IRISH CREAM BROWNIES For the Irish Cream Center Layer: 2 blocks cream cheese, room temperature 1 container Marscapone cheese, room temperature ½ cup sugar 1 egg ½ cup Bailey’s Irish Cream

and remaining ingredients. Place in a small bowl and set to the side.

For the Brownies: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. sea salt 1 1/2 cup butter, softened 12 oz. GOOD unsweetened chocolate, melted 2 cups sugar 2 cups light brown sugar 4 large eggs, at room temperature 1/4 cup orange blossom honey 2 tsp. good vanilla 1 cup semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips or discs Directions:

For the brownies: Sift together all dry ingredients. Place in the mixer, then add eggs, butter, honey, vanilla and melted chocolate. Mix well. Stir in chocolate chips last. Place a sheet of parchment paper in the bottom of a 13×9 baking pan. Coat the bottom and sides of pan well with non stick spray. Pour half of the chocolate brownie batter into the pan, spreading evenly. Next, cover the brownie layer with a layer of the Irish Cream mixture, using the all of the mixture. Finally, spread the remaining half of the brownie batter over the Irish cream layer. Bake at 350 for about an hour to one hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Life is too short to eat ugly food y’all!

For the Irish Cream Layer: In a stand mixer, whip cream cheese. Add sugar

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For more of these wonderful recipes please visit Melissa at: www.thefrontporchgourmet.com

By: Melissa Birdsong


Professional

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(803) 226 - 9888

BUY 1 GET 1 FREE Only Valid Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

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Knapp

Aiken Embroidery and Design Monogram your bags and clothes or choose from designs we have in stock. We can also digitize your personal or company logo. 120 1/2 Laurens St NW Aiken, SC (803) 215-5878

WORKING TOGETHER TO PERSONALIZE YOUR LIFE!

The Paisley Peacock Customized gifts just for you! Monogramming, Embroidery, Jewelry, Metalworks and boutique apparel. 109 Laurens St NW Aiken, SC (803) 215-8452

Elder Law • Probate • Guardian & Conservatorships VA & Medicaid Asset Preservation Special Needs & Living Trusts • Wills • Deeds

Elder law • Probate P.O. Box 714 21 Hugh St. Barnwell SC 149 Crepe Myrtle Ct. Aiken SC (inside The Smith Group) Guardianships • Conservatorships VA & Medicaid Asset Preservation 803-541-7676 www.knapplawfirmpc.com Special Needs & Living Trusts / Wills www.aikenwomanonline.com

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Professional Professional

Life With A Horse

By Tracey Lease Photo By Deva Warren

I have always loved horses. My fascination began as a young girl – probably similar

to many of you readers. I read about them, took the opportunity to ride them any time I could and dreamt of the day when I could keep one. Many years have passed (and my daughter, Rachel, is in the middle of this same fascination), and now I live vicariously through her and my friend, Gwen, who is now retired and loving her life – riding her horse every day.

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When I got the opportunity to write this article, I was concerned that it would bring up all those old longings – to go and ride a trail through the woods, wind whipping in my hair, just the clip-clop of hooves mingled with the sounds of nature…it did bring me back to my childhood. Probably just about the same time Aiken Saddlery was brought to life.

chances are, they only sold items for horses. Now, 37 years later, times have sure changed!

When Aiken Saddlery opened its doors in 1979, the store was smaller. There was no internet, no cell phones, and,

“We are fox hunters, hunter/ jumper riders, polo players, drivers, eventers and thoroughbred enthusiasts as well

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real

Amy Hebert took over ownership of Aiken Saddlery in 2014. She has since expanded the store, updated the website, and you can now get items for horses, dogs, cats and even chickens!

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as trail riders and mule skinners.” Amy says that at least one of her employees has experience in each of these areas, as well as knowing how to run a one horse operation to a 40 horse racing stable. Amy first came to Aiken about 15 years ago when she would ride with race horses, and has since grown to love it here. Originally from Milford, Connecticut, she met her partner, Doremus, in Killington, Vermont on a ski trip. After going to the University of Georgia to major in


Anthropology with a minor in Classical Archaeology, Amy is now doing what she loves – helping the community be successful horse owners.

and beds. Oh, and you can buy items to feed almost any other animal on your farm! Just call and they can even deliver it to you!

The first step to be a successful horse owner? “Get to know your horse,” is Amy’s advice. According to Aiken Saddlery’s website, there are a reported 90,000 horses in South Carolina; Aiken County is home to more than 10% of those! That’s a lot of horses to service! When I asked Amy what sets her store apart from other tack and feed stores, she responded, “Customer service. We strive to make your experience informative, pleasurable and convenient.” Locally owned and operated since its opening several decades ago, Aiken Saddlery has served horsemen and their equine partners with a quality variety of “feed, hay, and eclectic lifestyle items.” Your dog and cat’s needs can be taken care of too – with premium foods, toys, collars,

Since ownership of the business keeps Amy very busy, she doesn’t have an abundance of free time. With the time she has, Amy loves to ride her horse (of course!), walk her dogs, cook, and read. She is a supporter of local charities, including ASPCA and a therapeutic riding horse rescue. She told me that her motto in life is, “Enjoy the time you have. Grab mane and kick on!” As spring is now rolling around the corner, my daughter, Rachel, and my friend, Gwen, are getting excited to get out there and roam the countryside. Just remember that Amy and Aiken Saddlery are there to help you out with whatever needs you may have!

We strive to make your experience informative, pleasureable and convenient.

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www.aikenwomanonline.com

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Professional

SMART FINANCIAL MOVES F O R WO M E N

On March 8, we observe International Women’s Day, a celebration of women’s economic, political and social achievements. Yet women everywhere still face challenges — and here in the United States, one of their biggest challenges may be to gain the resources they need to enjoy a comfortable retirement. So, if you’re a woman, what steps should you take to make progress toward this goal? Your first move should be to recognize some of the potential barriers to attaining your financial freedom. First of all, a “wage gap” between women and men still exists: The median earnings of full-time female workers are 77% of the median earnings of full-time male workers, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Also, women drop out of the workforce for an average of 12 years to care for young children or aging parents, according to the Older Women’s League, a research and advocacy group — and this time away from the workforce results in women 8

receiving lower pensions or accumulating much less money in their employer-sponsored retirement plans. To give yourself the opportunity to enjoy a comfortable retirement lifestyle, consider these suggestions: • Boost your retirement plan contributions. Each year, put in as much as you can afford to your traditional or Roth IRA. A traditional IRA grows on a tax-deferred basis, while a Roth IRA can grow tax free provided you meet certain conditions. Also, take advantage of your employer-sponsored, tax-deferred retirement plan, such as a 401(k), 403(b) or 457(b). At the very least, contribute as much to earn your employer’s matching contribution, if one is offered. And every year, if your salary increases, try to boost your contributions to your retirement plan. • Consider growth investments. Some evidence suggests that women may be

more conservative investors than men — in other words, women may tend to take fewer risks and pursue “safer” investments. But to help build the resources you will need for a comfortable retirement, consider growth-oriented vehicles in your IRA, 401(k) and other investment accounts. • Talk to your spouse about Social Security. If your spouse starts collecting Social Security at 62 (the earliest age of eligibility), the monthly benefits will be reduced, perhaps by as much as 25%. This reduction could affect you if you ever become a widow, because once you reach your own “full” retirement age (which will likely be 66 or 67), you may qualify for survivor benefits of 100% of what your deceased spouse had been receiving — and if that amount was reduced, that’s what you’ll get. Talk to your spouse about this issue well before it’s time to receive Social Security. (You may also want to talk to a financial advisor for help in coordinating


survivor benefits with your own Social Security retirement benefits.) • Evaluate your need for life insurance benefits. Once their children are grown, some couples drop their life insurance. Yet, the death benefit from a life insurance policy can go a long way toward helping ensure your financial security. Again, talk to your spouse about whether to maintain life insurance, and for how much. International Women’s Day is a great occasion for commemorating women’s accomplishments. And by making the right moves, you can eventually celebrate your own achievement of attaining the financial security you deserve. Edward Jones - Member SIPC www.edwardjones.com

Call for our upcoming branch event schedule. (803) 649-5138 Alicia Kough, AAMS Financial Advisor 407 Hayne Avenue Southwest Aiken, SC 29801 3.5” x 5” | Maximum Font Size: 36 pt www.edwardjones.com

Schedule a complimentary portfolio review.

Stay connected with Aiken Woman on Facebook. Be the first to comment on our content, weigh in on upcoming story ideas, and even share topics you’d like to see us cover! Tell us what you want to see more of! Interact with our editors! Hear about ways to win GOODIES!

Alicia S Kough, AAMS® Financial Advisor .

407 Hayne Avenue Southwest Aiken, SC 29801 803-649-5138

Member SIPC

www.aikenwomanonline.com

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www.southlanddrivingacademy.com 10

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Pets

Keeping Them Safe

By Tracey Lease Photo By Deva Warren

O

ne of the things I am not looking forward to in the next few years is my oldest daughter getting her driver’s license. Not because I don’t want her to drive, but…well, maybe that’s why. I do know that, since she is a teenager and knows everything, I will not be teaching her how to drive. Now, back when dinosaurs roamed the earth, I had Driver’s Education classes in high school. We got a book, took the class for a whole marking period, took a practice test or two and got scheduled for “behind the wheel” with our gym teachers after school. If your birthday didn’t fall correctly with your gym class, you took your test late (which I had to do) or hired a driving school. With time comes changes. Nowadays, you don’t use class time in school to study your Driver’s Education book; you have to study on your own. Your gym teacher doesn’t take you out with two other kids from your class so you can all be scared of the others’ driving (sorry, Mike and John!). And, you can schedule everything with ease to work into your lifestyle. This is where Southland Driving Academy comes in. Honestly, before I interviewed Sherrie Johnson for this article, I had given very little thought

as to my oldest daughter driving. Then it occurred to me that she will be 15 this summer – oh my, I had better start thinking about it! According to Sherrie, one of the biggest challenges these days of educating our future drivers is, “trying to teach them the dangers of texting … Over 40,000 people die each year in motor vehicle collisions and over 20% of them are teens texting while driving.” Another challenge, of course, is driving under the influence of alcohol or some other drug. “After seeing people I know and love die from motor vehicle collisions, I felt I could make a difference.” These are the reasons why Sherrie started Southland Driving Academy. Sherrie and her husband, Jeffery, have been married for 34 years. Other than a childhood stint in North Carolina for Sherrie, she grew up in Aiken and attended Erskine College to become certified to teach Drivers Education. She and Jeffrey raised their children, Matthew, Jennifer and Elizabeth in Aiken as well. Although their kids are grown, Sherrie told me the best advice she ever gave them is to “treat people the way you would like to be treated, be independent, be happy, and above all else be yourself.” This was great advice then and still holds true today. Driving, for teens, is one of the

most important ways to assert their independence. Southland Driving Academy provides a very important service to the community and the surrounding area by working closely with schools to provide this essential need to teach teens the mechanics of driving a motor vehicle and how to do it safely. With 11 years of experience – including being voted the best in the community in 2013 – Sherrie has great advice for those students and parents getting ready to take this course, “Please take this seriously because a vehicle is a machine that can kill you. It is not a toy; you have to have respect for it.” They offer classes every Saturday and also provide each student with the required six hours of “behind the wheel”. There is no waiting list, and you can register online through their website at southlanddrivingacademy.com . According to Sherrie, there are over 164,000 people in Aiken, and almost a third of them are teenagers who are becoming of age to drive. My family does not live in Aiken, but I can believe that those percentages are similar in our area. With a company like Southland Driving Academy teaching our teenagers, I do hope that motor vehicle fatalities will decrease. At least, I pray so. My first princess will be out there next year. www.aikenwomanonline.com

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bestfriendexpress.com

Catch the Bus at our new location! 148 Waterloo Street Aiken, SC

Alan Glover Owner

(803)226-9035

For more information, please call Lower Savannah Council of Governments 803- 508-7033 or The New Best Friend Office 803-262-5305

1551 Whiskey Road Aiken, SC 29803

Mon-Sat 9AM-7PM Sun 12PM-5PM

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!

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Amy DoBranski • Nutrition Coach • 803-649-5546 12

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.

AIKEN

Upcoming Smart Chats Check Online for Saturday, January 16 Upcoming 10 a.m. - 3 Shart p.m. Chat Dates! 7 Sunday, February

Need to go to the Court House? Aiken Mall? Kalmia Plaza? The Hospital? Aiken Tech? USC Aiken? North Augusta?

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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

WE BUY AND SELL:

Antiques • Boutique • Jewelry • Coins • Art Native American Crafts • Religious Goods

We are looking for

EXPERIENCED WRITERS If you are interested, please email

INFO@LEXINGTONWOMANONLINE.COM

OR CALL 1 (803) 785 - 4475

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

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www.aikenwomanonline.com

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Pets

Stopping Animal Abuse & Neglect For this issue, please welcome my co-author, Camryn Price, a student at Blythewood High School who has chosen ‘stopping animal abuse and neglect’ as a school project. Please visit her website at www.stopanimalmistreatment1.weebly.com

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mages and news reports of abused, starved, and neglected animals sicken anyone with a conscience. As humans, it is our mandate to advocate for those that cannot speak for themselves. Acts of abuse or neglect demand action – from the obvious, such as a pet in a parked car on a hot day, to the dog on a short chain in someone’s back yard with no water or shade, to the subtle, such as knowing an owner of a new puppy does not intend to vaccinate or deworm their new family member. Often, simply educating the pet owner is sufficient, as in the latter case. Other times, calls to law enforcement, Animal Control or the ASPCA must be made. In these cases, let the authorities confront the offender, and don’t take the law into your own hands. There are four main classifications of neglect and abuse. 1. Unintentional Neglect – this involves mistakes made out of ignorance in which case the owner has never been taught proper pet care. Under or over-vaccinating, failure to administer a monthly heartworm preventative, and failure to keep a pet properly groomed are examples. Having a direct conversation with the pet’s owner, or providing

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educational materials is hopefully sufficient to improve the pet’s lot in life. 2. Intentional Neglect – inexcusable failure to provide water, food, shelter or timely medical care. It is estimated that nine million animals die of starvation every year. Regarding medical care, if a situation would prompt you to seek emergency care for a child (such as being hit by a car), then one should seek emergency care without delay for an animal. There is a mistaken belief among some that animals are ‘tougher’ than people and don’t always have to be rushed in for an emergency involving trauma, repeated vomiting, and other issues. 3. Hoarding – a sad, psychological impulse to ‘help’ too many animals until the situation is overwhelming for the hoarder. These people need professional help, and help in re-homing the affected animals. Often, authorities or non-profits must intervene to aid in getting these animals the needed care. 4. Intentional Abuse – whether directed by a pet owner to their own pet, or to get revenge on a pet owner, intentional abuse remains a serious issue. Almost 65% of this type of abuse involves dogs, and 18% involves

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BY Chris Hardin, DVM Owner, Palmetto Regional Emergency Hospital for Animals cats. From a neighbor who leaves out a pan of antifreeze to thin the local stray population, to people using garden shears to ‘crop’ their dogs ears, abuse takes on many forms and should shock any feeling human being. This type of abuse demands the most aggressive advocacy – if it is witnessed or known, call the authorities until the problem is addressed. As humans, we are given stewardship over animals, and part of that job is acting on their behalf. It takes some courage to take action, and that includes advocating for stronger laws and punishments for those who commit neglect and abuse. Do you know of any situations that fit the above classifications of abuse? Take action today.


Marrinson Stables

Your One Stop Shop!

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

J

GALLERY salon

T H E R E S A B RO W N owner 803.6489273

SM

Love Where You Live

SM

Vice President

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

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

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Professional Gourmet Nuts

Sauces & Dressings Jellies & Candies Honey

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Fresh Produce Gifts

Antiques

W SEL E BUY , L AND , CRAC SHE K, LL!

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CELEBRATE ANY OCCASION WITH

Floral Gallery Our stunning arrangements are designed with care using the finest and freshest blooms and are guaranteed to last long after your special day. WWW.FLORALGALLERYONLINE.COM Send Locally! 1631 Whiskey Road, Mitchell Shopping Center Aiken, SC | (803) 649 - 7959 Owner/Designer Casey McKinney

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Professional

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Fresh Perspectives You Can Stand On Us

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(803) 439 - 6318

F O R A F R E E E S T I M AT E !

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


Southern Bank and Trust

By Tracey Lease Photos By Lisa Ashworth

Spring Cleaning Your Finances

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Women


S

pring. The time of year for flowers, warmer weather, Easter bunnies and... spring cleaning? Those are the things that come to my mind. My favorite chore is to open the windows and let the fresh air in. Want to know something else we can spring clean? How about our finances? This is a good time of year to look them over and spruce them up if they need it! I got to speak with five women from Georgia Bank & Trust and Southern Bank & Trust – some of the top women in their company. I must admit, I was a little intimidated about talking to them all at once, but I will tell you, I was happily surprised about how easy they were to get to know; both themselves and their jobs at the bank. Now, I know very little about banking – I am probably on par with most of society. But now I am thinking that I had better get on the ball. Terri Jenks, Assistant Vice President and Office Manager of Southern Bank & Trust’s North Augusta office said to me, “It is coming to the point that many of us are raising our kids and taking care of our parents. Life is a circle. Finances and time will be stretched.” I thought about this. I am in my 40’s, I have young children, and my parents are about 70. Are my finances where they should be? Not even by a long shot. Oh, my goodness, how do I even start? Ashley Bagby, also an Assistant Vice President and Office Manager of the Laurens Street office in Aiken of Southern Bank & Trust says she first needs to, “…sit down and understand my customers’ needs. What are their goals for the long-term? College? A house? Well, let’s talk about how to get ready for the future.” So, I made a little list.

to meet you, we want to get to know you – you are an individual, not just a credit score, not just a deal we are going to close.” • Find a company that’s in it for the long haul. All five of these ladies agree that the love of their customers is why they are so good at their job. Their level of customer service goes above and beyond – that’s what sets Georgia Bank & Trust and Southern Bank & Trust apart from the rest. “We look at the big picture – you are not just a number to us. We don’t just push to sell you something. We want to work together with you for a long time,” says Carrie. Georgia Bank & Trust and Southern Bank & Trust are committed to their communities. They are firm believers in encouraging their staff to volunteer. Some of the charity organizations include Golden Harvest Food Bank, United Way and The Salvation Army. Tina Bevell, Assistant Vice President and Office Manager of the South Aiken office mentioned that in her branch, the staff was aware of two families over the holidays that were having a hard time. Her staff took it upon themselves to buy gifts and donate them to these two families so they could have Christmas presents under the tree. “Giving back should be about helping those in need – sometimes it is just being there for someone.” Along those same lines, Susan told me that there was a client of hers that was turning 95. The staff helped him celebrate his birthday by giving him gifts. • Just start doing something. Carrie’s best advice? Save. For college. Weddings. “It doesn’t matter if you save a lot; just increase it as you get older. Your only mistake would be to not do anything.”

• Figure out your goals. Carrie Hodge, Vice President and Program Manager of Wealth Management said one of her favorite things about her job is looking at her client’s objectives – where they are and where they want to go. “I am here to help them achieve their goals – I love putting a plan in place and having these folks say they never thought they’d be able to do it.”

• Tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth. This is another area all five women agree on. Be honest and free with your information when consulting with your bank. They can only give good advice if they know the whole story. What is it that I say to my kids all the time? Oh, yes – I can’t help you if I don’t know about your problem.

• Find someone you trust to help you. Terri says that although there are electronic ways of banking, she advises to, “…meet and get to know your bank and those that work there. Build up your relationships. And if you have a question, please ask.” Susan Yarborough, Aiken County Executive Vice President and Commercial Relationship Manager, chimes in, “We want

“Part of Georgia Bank & Trust and Southern Bank & Trust’s mission statement includes being committed to helping our community, giving our employees leadership positions and setting good examples by volunteering - donating time and money,” says Susan. “I have been in banking for over 20 years – I know this community. I know about the relationship between people, the bank, and

I know how we can help each other to be successful. I love being able to help by coordinating to build a team – your team – by finding you the right people.” Adds Tina, “One of the most important parts of my job is ensuring my customers’ needs have been met and knowing that I did the right thing for them.” In speaking with all of the ladies, I got to learn a little about each of them; their personalities, how they “give back” and how they volunteer. While most of them spend hours in their churches working with the youth and ladies’ groups, choir, and, of course, treasurer, several of them also have other passions. Terri is on the planning

All five of these ladies agree that the love of their customers is why they are so good at their job. committee for Miracle Mile Walk, an organization that raises breast cancer awareness as well as providing mobile mammograms to women who might otherwise not get screened. Ashley is an assistant coach with her daughter’s cheerleading squad, although she is concerned about how much she is really coaching. Also, I learned something; all of these women – powerful women in their industry – are all just like the “girl next door”. But, they are on a mission to help you create a healthy relationship with your money and use it to create the life of your dreams - for generations to come. Which brings me back to my family. Now I know the steps I need to breathe some fresh air into my finances and get the ones I love on track for a secure future. My deepest thanks to Ashley, Carrie, Susan, Terri and Tina for the advice, the laughs and most importantly, sharing your passion for your career and communities! God Bless!

www.aikenwomanonline.com

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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

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137 Laurens Street SW Downtown Aiken, SC (803) 262 - 5102

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


Professional

Check us out online at W W W. A I K E N W O M A N O N L I N E . C O M

TO SEE ALL OF OUR PAST ISSUES AND STAY IN TOUCH!


jndwarren@aol.com 803-270-6572

Like me on Facebook:

Deva Andrews-Warren Photography www.deva-warren-wrdd.squarespace.com

“Serving the Needs of Our Communities,

One Patient at a Time”

Our facility helps people restore strength, function and independence following surgery or a hospital stay. Individualized plans of care are delivered on a short-term basis. Our vision calls for quality and outcome-focused post-acute care that meets individualized patient needs.

• Specialized Rehabilitation

• Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapies

• Stroke Rehabilitation

• Cardiac & Pulmonary Care

• Intravenous Therapy

• Orthopedic Care

• Post Surgical Recovery

• 24 / 7 Admissions

ANCHOR HEALTH & REHAB OF AIKEN Another Covenant Dove Community

550 Eastgate Drive, Aiken, SC 29803 •

(803) 643-3694

ACCEPTS: Medicare, Medicaid, Private Pay and Private Insurance Visit us on our website: www.covenantdove.com/anchor

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White Cheddar, Green Apple& Pomegranate

FLATBREAD M

By Melissa Birdsong

y husband is spoiled. It’s OK, I say that lovingly and because he will say the same thing. Teaching culinary classes at an Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar boutique has its perks; we are never without the ingredients for an amazing vinaigrette. Being an avid runner, he pays particular attention to what fuels his body. He can’t help it…the boy simply loves healthy, fresh and flavorful! Although I love making salad dressings from scratch, it’s really nice to have other options in the fridge. It’s great to have something a little more convenient, creamy and decadent, that keeps the same standards of flavor and freshness as we do when we make our dressings from scratch. Enter Organic Girl’s new line of fresh salads and salad dressings. Organic Girl offers a full line of baby greens in earth-friendly 100% recycled plastic clamshells, made from 100% recycled PET bottles (5 bottles per clamshell to be exact) that are fully recyclable. Greens are also washed THREE times before packaging. It’s a great feeling to find products that are good AND good for you. Organic Girl set a new standard of fresh with these great additions.

Recipe • 1 cup Organic Girl White Cheddar salad dressing • 2 cups Organic Girl Pepper Greens • 4 flatbreads • 1 red onion, thinly sliced • 1/2 green apple, shaved • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds • 4 slices nitrate free, honey turkey bacon (made by coating turkey bacon with honey and roasting), crumbled

• 1 cup White Cheddar, shredded

Generously brush or spoon White Cheddar Dressing onto flatbreads. Top with pepper greens, cheese and remaining ingredients. Bake at 425 for 8-10 minutes or until flatbread is crispy and cheese has melted. Serve with a fresh salad and additional dressing for dipping!

For more of these wonderful recipes please visit Melissa at: www.thefrontporchgourmet.com

*A very special thank you to Organic Girl for providing these amazing products. Although they were complimentary, all thoughts, opinions, words, and drooling are entirely my own. For more information on Organic Girl Products and where to find them, visit their website at www.aikenwomanonline.com 23 www.iloveorganicgirl.com.


Health & Wellness

WHAT MEN

DON’T WANT WOMEN TO KNOW

At age 50, men are likely to be at the height of their career. They have led a life of strength and virility. But when their testosterone level starts to diminish, they lose stamina and muscle, gain weight, and often become tired and depressed. And they are likely to have problems getting an erection.

“The woman is usually the one who does further research and sets up an appointment for her husband to be tested for testosterone. She probably has noticed that he has become grouchy, tired, and less interested in sex.” Measuring testosterone level can be done at a doctor’s office, usually through a blood sample, or through a saliva test available at Family Pharmacy. The saliva test results can be given to a physician to prescribe the correct dose of testosterone if needed. Watts explains that testosterone is available as an injection or as a topical gel or lotion. Since Family Pharmacy is a compounding pharmacy, they can compound the specific dosage of topical gel.

Family Pharmacy Owner, Jay Watts

Jay Watts, owner and pharmacist at Aiken’s Family Pharmacy, says “Men typically just want to get a prescription for Viagra or Cialis to deal with their erectile dysfunction instead of taking the more holistic step to evaluate their testosterone level. Viagra and Cialis will help with sexual performance, but will not address the other problems associated with diminished testosterone.

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“A monthly injection offers the convenience of a once-a-month application, and it doesn’t expose anyone else to it; however, the level of testosterone starts out high and gradually diminishes. The topical applications take a week or so to achieve a constant level; however, precaution is necessary to prevent topical exposure to a woman or child.” Prostate enlargement is another issue aging

Women

men experience. BPH, benign prostatic hyperthropy, causes men to get up to urinate once or twice during the night. Sleep deprivation contributes to tiredness and depression. “One additional benefit of low dose Cialis, which is taken daily, is that it helps with both the prostate and erectile dysfunction. Many insurance companies will cover the cost because of this additional benefit.” Psychological aspects also contribute to problems with sexual performance, Watts explains. “If a man has difficulty getting an erection or ejaculating, he may lose confidence and fear a repeated lack of physical response.” Anti-depressants, such as Prozac, Paxil, Lexapro, can delay ejaculation. Blood pressure medications alter the elasticity of blood vessels, which can interfere with an erection. Erectile dysfunction is worsened by cardiovascular disease or diabetes, which diminish blood flow and nerve innervation, Watts notes. Alcohol use also is a factor; a little can enhance, a lot will inhibit. “There is not a magic pill for everything,” Watts says, lifestyle, diet and exercise are essential to maintaining good health.”


Health & Wellness

TWO LOCATIONS 803.649.1776 333 Newberry St., NW

803.648.1776 110 Price Ave.

aikenfamilypharmacy.com

Serving Aiken’s families for 30 years.

85 8

AIKEN & NORTH AUGUSTA

ARE LOSING WEIGHT

$

PER MONTH* *1ST MONTH $195

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

Dr. Gregory L. Eaves, MD, FACC

DENTAL SERVICES FOR ALL MEMBERS OF YOUR FAMILY FROM GRANDPARENTS TO CHILDREN

1397 SILVER BLUFF RD

803.646.5003 AikenWeightLoss.com

336 GEORGIA AVE

803.426.1220

NorthAugustaWeightLoss.com

AND EVERYONE IN BETWEEN!

www.ShirerFamilyDentistry.com www.aikenwomanonline.com

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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. 26

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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.


IGNORING YOUR TEETH WILL MAKE THEM GO AWAY...

Equine Spcieal

WE FOCUS ON YOUR PHYSICAL WELLNESS: WHETHER FOR WORK SITUATIONS, SPORT, OR EVERYDAY LIFE.

WE SPECIALIZE IN: MOVEMENT ASSESSMENT AND RETRAINING CORPORATE/WORK WELLNESS AND INJURY PREVENTION ACTIVE RELEASE TECHNIQUES E RGONOMIC ASSESSMENTS

Dr. Leah B. Wilkins, DMD

AikenDental.com 803.648.9461 | 1391 Silver Bluff Rd.

WWW.VERSATHERAPIES.COM INFO@VERSATHERAPIES.COM | (803)-716-9167

Protect Your Heart Don’t Become a Statistic

More women die of cardiovascular disease than from the next four causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer. But 80 percent of cardiac events in women could be prevented if women made the right choices for their hearts involving diet, exercise and abstinence from smoking. Make it your mission to learn all you can about heart attacks and stroke — don’t become a statistic. CALL 9-1-1. Calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Emergency medical services (EMS) staff can begin treatment when they arrive — up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car. EMS staff are also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. Patients with chest pain who arrive by ambulance usually receive faster treatment at the hospital, too. It is best to call EMS for rapid transport to the emergency room.

Signs of a Heart Attack in Women

• Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.

• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. • Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort. • Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. • As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or dis-

comfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.

If you have any of these signs, don’t wait more than five minutes before calling for help. Call 9-1-1...Get to a hospital right away. National Heart Association, www.heart.org www.aikenwomanonline.com

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o you ever feel like you are moving in circles? In the last few months, I have found myself wondering about the state of this world. How senseless some things are, or so they seem to be to me. I rarely turn the news on anymore because there is so much sadness. A little face that haunts my dreams or a pair of grief stricken eyes that I can’t get out of my mind. I read once that our children are like little tanks. Imagine their bellies are a reserve filled with either positive or negative emotions. Those emotions both good and bad come from us. Whatever we fill that tank with, is what comes out of their mouths. So I have to wonder, why are people so mean? When I was younger, I can remember my parents teaching me to be kind. I know it’s hard to believe I just wasn’t born that way, right? Seriously, if I said something that wasn’t nice, my mother would say, “That isn’t a nice thing to say.” or if I was being rude or unkind, I remember hearing the old adage, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.” Now days people think it’s funny to say mean things. They sit around and see who can say the meanest things. Does it come from this new form of socializing that we have, Facebook/ twitter/Instagram/snapchat, where we can shoot off a comment to someone without any real consequence. Where we can hide behind a computer screen and make veiled remarks, yet everyone knows who you are talking about. Does that make it ok if you don’t name the person you are “slamming” specifically? I was at a local performance recently and two young ladies were sitting behind me. I felt like I was at a casting call for a “Mean Girls” movie. The seventeen-ish year old young woman, spent an hour… critiquing every single person who stepped foot on the stage. I was embarrassed for her and I felt badly for the young people who were being graded on this performance. I usually bite my tongue, however, this time I could not. I asked a teacher to tell me her name. She did better than that, she called her over. Now I could embarrass her by telling you all who she was, but my mama raised me better than that. I only mention this because it is scary to me to think we have lost our compassion for one another. When I was in school if I was watching student performances my thoughts would have been, “They must be very nervous!”; “Wow, that took a lot of guts to sing that song!”; “ That was amazing for a solo performance!”; “What great dancers!” Instead, here was a young lady who had absolutely nothing nice to say for fifty plus minutes. After I admonished her for her behavior, I was very sad. I wondered how self-conscious this young woman was, and how insecure in herself she must be, how empty of positive emotions to share from her love tank. It may be “uncool” and terribly “unpopular” but I want to always be the positive and not the negative. I want to fill all the people I “pour” into with kindness and love. I know at times I have failed at that. I am sure I have said some not-nice things myself from time to time, and I will do better. Maybe because I shared this with you, you will stop yourself or someone else from being unnecessarily unkind to someone. Until Next Time, Your Friend

Lori Samples Duncan

Children are likely to live up to what you believe of them. -Lady Bird Johnson, former U.S. first lady


Advertising A is for Advertising ..................................................5 www.aisforadvertising.tv Arts & Entertainment Aiken Trials ................................................................3 www.aikentrials.com Art By Susan McCarty...........................................5 www.susanmccarty-art.com

www.aikenchiropractic.com Synergy HomeCare ................................................9 www.synergyhomecare.com Versa Therapies .................................................... 25 www.versatherapies.com

Attorney Knapp Law Firm, PC ..............................................5 www.knapplawfirmpc.com

Healthy Living Bee Healthy........................................................... 16 www.beehealthyclinics.com Smart Plan............................................................. 12 www.smartplanforhealthyliving.com Palmetto Wellness/Weight Loss ........................ 25 www.aikenweightloss.com

Automotive Services Auto Tech, Inc. ....................................................... 15 www.aikenautotechinc.com

Home Services Aiken Flooring ....................................................... 17 www.aikenflooring.com

Banking Georgia Bank & Trust ......................................... 20 www.georgiabankandtrust.com Cleaning Services Fresh Perspectives................................................ 17 www.fpcleaning.com Dentist Shirer Family Dentistry ....................................... 25 www.shirerfamilydentistry.com Center for Dentistry ............................................ 27 www.aikendental.com Education Carolina Academy of Music .............................. 22 www.carolinaacademyofmusic.com Southland Driving Academy .............................. 10 www.southlanddrivingacademy.com Equine Shopping & Services C’est La Vie Farms ............................................... 20 Aiken Saddlery.........................................................7 www.aikensaddlery.com Marrinson Stables ............................................... 15 www.marrinsonstables.com Sullivan Saddlery .................................................. 13 www.sullivansaddlery.com Core Equus ............................................................ 12 www.core-equus.com Financial Planning Edward Jones ...........................................................9 www.edwardjones.com Ameriprise ............................................................. 10 www.ameripriseadvisors.com UBS Financial Services ....................................... 17 www.ubs.com/southpointemanagement Health Services Aiken Regional Medical Centers ...... Back Cover www.aikenregional.com Anchor Health & Rehab of Aiken.................... 22 www.cenantdove.com/anchor Aiken Chiropractic................................................ 25

Hotels Comfort Suites.........................................................4 www.comfortsuiteslexington.com Insurance State Farm Hannah Clark ................................. 10 www.SFagentHannah.com Pharmacy Aiken Family Pharmacy ...................................... 25 www.aikenfamilypharmacy.com Photography Mary Beth’s Photography ................................. IFC www.marybethsphotography.com Deva Andrews-Warren Photography ............... 22 www.deva-warren-wrdd.squarespace.com Real Estate Nancy Cerra.......................................................... 15 www.nancycerra.com Restaurants Red Bowl ...................................................................5 www.redbowlaiken.com Salons Salon Trale.............................................................. 10 Studio South .......................................................... 10 Gallery J .................................................................. 11 Shopping Aiken Embroidery & Design ............................. 10 The Paisley Peacock ............................................ 10 Sears Homestore ................................................. 12 Thru Time and Ages ............................................ 13 Epona on Laurens ............................................... 11 www.eponaonlaurens.com The Lucky Pecan Store ....................................... 16 Floral Gallery ......................................................... 16 Transportation Best Friend Express............................................. 12 www.bestfriendexpress.com

Business & Web Directory

Column By Pastor Sonya Mazzell

Forget The Past And Press On A few years back, I was at a Chinese restaurant with a friend who shared his discouragement about endless cycles that were making his life unproductive. At the end of the meal, he cracked open his fortune cookie, and it said, “Nothing is going to get better until you make some changes”. I can’t tell you how that cookie made us laugh. I told him that he was the only person I knew who had been rebuked by a fortune cookie. As scary as change can be, it is the only way to grow, evolve and become who God created us to be. If our minds become focused on the failures of our past, we will lose heart and become powerless to make the changes that will produce a more fulfilling future. If thoughts of fear about our future fill our mind, we become blind to the opportunities for change that present themselves in today. Paul the apostle said in Philippians Chapter 4, “This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark”… Now is the time to become the best you that you can be. It’s time to become the person you always knew you could be, it’s never too late to start over. Forget the past, trust God with your future, be true to yourself and press on. You can change, you can soar, you are beautiful and you are loved! ~ Pastor Sonya www.aikenwomanonline.com

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Equine Special

They know me. At Aiken Regional, we know women. “At the Imaging Center, I see familiar faces over and over again, and it’s very comforting to me. There is no waiting, you are in and out, and get your reports right away. They make everything easy.”

PAT ROBERTS

302 University Parkway Aiken, SC 29801

Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. 151944

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