Local News | The Aiken Standard

Hundreds gather for parade to celebrate Memorial Day

Sat, 26 May 2012 23:28:28 GMT

By CHRIS WALSH

Hundreds of patriotic local residents lined the downtown streets of Aiken to watch this year's Memorial Day parade make its way down Laurens Street.

American flags waved as far as the eye could see as families turned out to honor military members past and present. Even U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham yelled out, "This is the best parade in South Carolina" while he made his way down the route sitting atop a convertible.

Marching bands belted out the tunes of American lore as those in attendance clapped and saluted passersby.

"It was hot," said Jaibria Quattlebaum, who was in the parade as a part of the Aiken High School color guard.

"But it was fun," chimed in fellow color guard member Mariel Urizar, who was also sitting with Leanne Summers and Mercedes Winters at the ice cream social that followed the parade.

It wasn't just locals taking in the Memorial Day festivities either. Keri Truhe brought her family down from North Carolina to see her mother, Barb Rollins, in the parade on the AAA Home School Band float.

"Fabulous," Truhe said, sitting in the shade with her children Tori, David and Monica.

The parade was held by the James L. Hammons Marine Corps League Detachment 939 and featured more than 70 participating groups. The grand marshal was U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Perry M. Smith.

Politicians share sweet treats with residents

Sat, 26 May 2012 23:28:24 GMT

By CHRIS WALSH

On a blistering hot day in May, U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham and U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson set up shop in the downtown Aiken alley to help try to cool off Aiken residents with an ice cream social following the Memorial Day parade.

"The Memorial Day parade in Aiken is the largest in the state, and the people putting it on have done a great job," Graham said. "It's not the biggest town in South Carolina, but it's the best parade, and what it says is the people of Aiken want to make sure that all those that went away and never made it back will not be forgotten."

The social drew dozens of people from the crowded streets and gave them a chance to share a treat with their local representatives.

"This has been a wonderful parade; what an extraordinary community," Wilson said. "This is a world-class community - everybody knows that, and it was just fun to be in the parade and see people who were paying tribute to military members, family and veterans. What a positive experience, and it only confirms my view of how patriotic and loving of our country the people are in this region."

Wilson said his family dates back to the area - Beech Island to be exact - nearly 150 years. While he enjoys visiting Aiken as much as possible, the numbers of those who attend the parade has also left an impression.

"I've seen, over the years, people are coming out more and more to express their love and appreciation of military families and service members," Wilson said. "That is who makes it possible for us to have the freedoms of association, the freedoms of media, the freedoms of women to participate in society. None of this would be possible if it weren't for the American military."

While both also took part in the parade honoring military members past and present, Graham also expressed his thoughts on military members of present and future.

"One percent of the nation has been fighting these wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and there's some budget proposals that cut our military funding," Graham said. "I know we've got to reduce spending in terms of the military, but I will not sit on the sidelines and watch a trillion dollars be taken out of the hands of the Department of Defense and destroy the finest military in the history of the world. That is my No. 1 thing to avoid in 2012."

Chris Walsh is the arts and entertainment reporter for the Aiken Standard. He graduated from Valdosta State University and hails from Atlanta.

APAG announces new season of dance, music and theater

Sat, 26 May 2012 23:28:19 GMT

Staff Reports

Here's a look at the 2012-13 season's lineup for Aiken Performing Arts Group:

1. Ensemble EspaÃ±ol Spanish Dance Theater

In October, Aiken Performing Arts Group will open its season with Ensemble EspaÃ±ol Spanish Dance Theater.

This dance company, which will perform Oct. 11 and 12, will display original Spanish classical ballets, folkloric suites and fiery flamenco dramas, choreographed by the company's founder, Dame Libby Komaiko, a professor of dance in the Department of Music and Dance programs at Northeastern Illinois University.

Ensemble EspaÃ±ol Spanish Dance Theater is a nonprofit arts organization in residence at Northeastern Illinois University and is partially supported by grants from the Illinois Arts Council and the City Arts Program from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs.

2. Spencers Theatre of Illusion

Spencers Theatre of Illusion consists of a performing duo that is redefining magic for a new generation of spectators, delivering a larger-than-life sense of wonder to its audience.

The Spencers are the only artists in history to be named Performing Arts Entertainers of the Year for six consecutive years and have twice been named America's Best Entertainers. The duo will present a big, high-tech stage show Nov. 1 and 2 that combines drama, comedy, romance and suspense with elaborate stage illusions, including breathtaking displays of sound and light.

3. Carolina Brass Christmas Pops

December will be serenaded with music, laughter and the spirit of Christmas by the Carolina Brass Christmas Pops.

On Dec. 13, attendees will have the opportunity to hear the ensemble play such holiday favorites as "White Christmas," "Sleigh Ride" and "Bugler's Holiday," along with traditional favorites from Hollywood movies and Broadway shows.

Carolina Brass is a mixture of fun-loving and jocular internationally- renowned musicians with a repertoire encompassing everything from Renaissance to Big Band. Carolina Brass hopes to engage audiences in a vibrant, energetic and memorable musical experience.

4. ALL HANDS ON DECK!

Based on Bob Hope's 1942 USO tour to the troops in the field, "ALL HANDS ON DECK!" is a new, two-act revue performed by four charismatic singer/dancer/comics and a nine-piece orchestra featuring the songs, dances and laughs of the '40s. During World War II, Hollywood responded to the call of duty by sending live entertainment to men in uniform.

ALL HANDS ON DECK! boasts more than 40 classic Big Band hits in original arrangements, all packaged in a fun-filled, true-to-life reproduction of the kind of USO show that Hope and Jack Benny would have taken to the troops. Song performed will include such favorites as "Chattanooga Choo-Choo," "I'm In The Mood For Love," "I'll Never Smile Again" and "Thanks For The Memory." On Feb. 14 and 15, bring your sweetheart for this nostalgic Valentine's treat.

5. "Broadway's Next H!t Musical"

"Broadway's Next H!t Musical" is New York City's original, award-winning improvised musical comedy.

With each performance, every song is fresh, every scene is new and every night is different. Under the direction of improvisation veterans Rob Schiffman and Deb Rabbai, "Broadway's Next H!t Musical" is an unscripted theatrical awards show.

On March 14 and 15, watch master improvisers gather made-up hit song suggestions from the audience and create a spontaneous evening of music, humor and laughter.

The audience will vote for their favorite song and watch as the cast turns it into a full-blown improvised musical complete with memorable characters, witty dialogue and plot twists galore. "Broadway's Next H!t Musical" was recently performed The Triad, the Tribeca Film Festival and the New York Musical Theater Festival, among many others.

6. "Spring Fling" - Orchestra of the Midlands

Maestro Donald Portnoy brings the Orchestra of the Midlands to Aiken for a return engagement following its concert of "Peter and the Wolf," which was performed at the Etherredge Center in February. On April 11, "Spring Fling," a musical tribute to the season of fun, frolic and fantasy, will feature selections that will be performed by the Orchestra of the Midlands, which is composed of some of the finest professional classical musicians in South Carolina. Portnoy, a former musical director for the Augusta Symphony for many years, is no stranger to his local audience, as he has appeared in Aiken as the director of the University of South Carolina Symphony Orchestra.

APAG offers three levels to choose from as a subscriber - the platinum series, the subscriber series and the portfolio series.

The platinum series, which costs $220, includes all six shows in the series. The subscriber series, which costs $160, includes the four main shows - "Ensemble EspaÃ±ol Spanish Dance Theater," "Spencers Theater of Illusion," "All Hands on Deck!" and "Broadway's Next H!t Musical." The portfolio series includes the two extra shows, which are Carolina Brass Christmas Pops and "Spring Fling" - Orchestra Of The Midlands, and costs $60.

There is an early subscription discount of $15 off the total cost for platinum series and $10 off for the subscriber series if ordered before July 1, which is also the deadline for retaining same seats.

New subscribers will be assigned seats after July 1, and seating availability is based on the date the application is received.

Subscriber tickets are mailed in August. For a seating chart, visit www.APAGonline.org.

Single tickets go on sale at URS Center for the Performing Arts' box office Sept. 4.

To subscribe, call APAG's office at 643-4774.

All concerts will be held at URS Center for the Performing Arts, 126 Newberry St. S.W.

For more information, email aikenpag@gforcecable.com or visit www.apagonline.org.

Professor, ADPS host session for young adults to talk about problems youth face, create

Sat, 26 May 2012 23:27:32 GMT

By ROB NOVIT

When Dr. Mike Weaver was growing up on in the City of Aiken's Northside in the 1970s, he can recall the dances at the Smith-Hazel Recreation Center's community room.

The events were heavily chaperoned yet always a lot of fun, Weaver said during a meeting in that same room Saturday.

Now a college professor and researcher from Atlanta, he welcomed a small group of young people and adults, including Aiken Public Safety Chief Charles Barranco and Capt. David Turno, to talk about the problems that too many young people are facing and causing.

Weaver cited a book about Aiken County and how the county was founded by and for black people in the 19th century.

"Aiken County was carved out of Barnwell and Edgefield counties," Weaver said. "How did we get from black people who understood empowerment to a point where police officers are being killed?"

Parents such as Sonya Yeldell and City Council member Gail Diggs describe how some of their children's friends would gravitate to their homes of weekends - a place where they felt welcomed.

"It only takes a little time to be in a child's life," said Yeldell. "If I can save one or two, they'll look back and say thank you."

Young people who attended the session described how some of the kids they know don't take school seriously. They don't get involved in sports or extracurricular activities. Those teens may not get support at home and tend to find it in groups of other teens who have the potential to get them into trouble.

"They don't understand the consequences or just don't care," said Rozlyn Humphrey, an Aiken High graduate and college student. "Either way is not a good thing."

If teachers, Sunday school volunteers and nurses see a danger for a child, "there is a process through the Family Court system," Barranco said. "But the first thing we do is ask where the parent is. We want to try to get them reunited."

During the City of Aiken's history among its black residents, Weaver said, there were educated free blacks coming out of the Civil War and another group that learned trade skills and passed them on to subsequent generations. There was also a third group of hustlers.

"But, in 2012, we've got some educated kids, and what do they want? To look like a thug," Weaver said. "That's a big mistake. They don't know what they're getting into. There used to be a code of honor that women and babies and the elderly were off-limits. But in the 1980s, crack busted everything up, and the code of honor went away."

In 2012, it still takes a village to raise a child, Diggs said, and people have to be receptive to let others help with those responsibilities. Barranco concurred.

"You've got Public Safety, City Council and this group of people and others," he said. "We can't do it all ourselves. It has to be a team effort, and that's what we're starting to see - a swelling of people who want to do things that are best for the kids."

Senior writer Rob Novit is the Aiken Standard's education reporter and has been with the newspaper since September 2001. He is a native of Walterboro and majored in journalism at the University of Georgia.

Women in AHS Class of '66 get together for 'Girls' Night Out'

Sat, 26 May 2012 23:27:29 GMT

Submitted article

The 2012 Aiken High Class of '66 Girls' Night Out held its third event, and it spelled nothing but "winner."

What began in 2010 as a casual reconnection on Facebook between some of the girls of Class of 1966 has become a yearly event.

On April 28, approximately 30 females, along with a few guests, gathered to reconnect and renew old friendships. The group welcomed four new faces to this year's get-together, and those new faces have helped to enhance the magic in the air as the women caught up with old classmates and retold tales of pranks played as they grew up together.

The group met at the Red Pepper CafÃ©. At the bar, they caught the attention of a man known only as Bill from Barnwell, a 1977 graduate.

Bill came into the group's private dining area to commend the women and urge them to keep this group together. Bill mentioned that he hoped when his class got to be 64, they would have what this group has.

He knew the women were 64 because that is how they started out the evening. Mary Ann Herron Lynes spoke briefly, and she and Mary Hatcher Daniel read/sang the song "When I'm 64." Everyone had to chuckle over a popular song of their teen years. They never thought at that time how true those lyrics would become at 64.

The Aiken High School Class of 1966 Girls' Night Out group extends special recognition and standing ovations to Sylvia Camp Davis for hospitality and event organization, Nancy Raney Moseley for the generous contributions of her Beauty of Aiken photography - a framed picture of South Boundary in springtime and some in note cards - and to John Finley of The Jewelers Loupe Inc. for his contribution for door prizes.

Kids use field day as troop fundraiser

Sat, 26 May 2012 23:27:26 GMT

By ROB NOVIT

Chukker Creek Elementary School students enjoyed a field day with a difference Friday.

Thanks to a military theme, the children participated in obstacle courses and events such as tug-of-war. Hundreds of the kids wore camouflage T-shirts with assorted colors, including pink.

Yet the always-enjoyable field day had an important mission, as well.

"We're participating in an 'Adopt-a-Platoon' benefit as a salute to the troops," said physical education teacher Chrystie Weimer. "We're participating in 'Operation Don't Bug Me' - sending supplies to a platoon of 10 men and women who are fighting overseas in Afghanistan."

School faculty members and students don't know the platoon members' identities, but they have responded generously, said Weimer and teacher Alecia Kinard. The children have brought such items as bug spray, eye drops, cortisone cream, lip balm, medicated powder, misting fans, sticky fly paper and much more.

"The kids are also sending letters, pictures and banners to the platoon," Weimer said. "Every grade level has embraced this, and our students want to let the soldiers know that we haven't forgotten that they're still over there."

Chukker Creek also has some terrific parent volunteers who helped run the field day, Kinard said. Carlotta Blackwelder, mother of two daughters, spent eight years in the Army and another five years in the Reserves. She helped run one of the obstacle courses.

"I'm very excited that Chukker Creek has such a big interest in the military this year," Blackwelder said. "It's an honor to assist with this event today."

Ayron Myers, father of two children, was playing the drill sergeant role on one of the obstacle courses with great relish. The kids loved it, and it wasn't really a stretch for Myers. He coaches the Under-9 Georgia-South Carolina Bulls soccer team.

"Oh, we know how to get the kids going and engaged," he said with a smile. "Mrs. Weimer does a wonderful job with her running club here that recognizes exercise is important. And this is for a really good cause."

Senior writer Rob Novit is the Aiken Standard's education reporter and has been with the newspaper since September 2001. He is a native of Walterboro and majored in journalism at the University of Georgia.

Aiken-trained horse of the year goes for third stakes win of 2012

Sat, 26 May 2012 21:09:38 GMT

By BEN BAUGH

The 2011 Aiken Trained Horse of the Year is seeking her third consecutive stakes victory of 2012. Godolphin Racing LLC's It's Tricky is among the 5 entries for the 1 1/16-mile $400,000 Grade 1 Ogden Phipps Handicap Monday at Belmont Park. It's Tricky was broken and trained in Aiken by Tim Jones.

The 4-year-old daughter of Mineshaft is the second choice on the morning line at odds of 2-1. The winner of last year's Ogden Phipps Handicap Awesome Maria is the morning line favorite at 4-5.

It's Tricky has been anything but in 2012, winning both of her starts, while showcasing her versatility. The bay filly won the 1 1/16-mile Grade 2 Top Flight Handicap over an off track at Aqueduct on March 3, and followed that score with a rousing 3 1/2-length win in the 7-furlong Grade 2 Distaff Handicap at Aqueduct on April 14. New York has been kind to the Kiaran McLaughlin charge as all 5 of her stakes victories have come in the Empire State. It's Tricky won two-thirds of the New York Racing Association's Triple Tiara during her sophomore campaign including the 1-mile Grade 1 Acorn Stakes at Belmont Park.

Jockey Eddie Castro gets the return call on the multiple Grade 1 winning mare.

It's Tricky worked a half-mile on May 21, breezing in 49 2/5 seconds.

The filly has 7 wins and 3 seconds from 11 starts, and has won $1,286,500.

Auxiliary honors teen for generosity

Sat, 26 May 2012 20:29:33 GMT

By BEN BAUGH

Sam Sarka's benevolence and willingness to help others is a trait you don't often see in your average 14-year-old.

An entrepreneurial spirit, innovative thinking and altruistic nature helped to inspire the home-schooled Sarka, 14, to make bracelets from parachute cord, and he donates 30 percent of the proceeds from the sales to the Wounded Warrior program.

Sarka would like to enlist in the U.S. Air Force, said his mother, Nikki Sarka.

"He has a lot of respect for our military, and he wanted to find a way to give back," she said. "He's just a compassionate person."

When the American Legion Post Auxiliary 212 found out about Sarka's generosity, he was nominated for the ALA's Good Deed Award by Brenda Holloway, a member of the auxiliary, said Minnie Mitchell, Auxiliary 212 president. Holloway, who found about Sam after reading an article about him in the Aiken Standard, informed the Sarkas about the nomination.

"I was shocked," said Nikki. "And when I found out how big of an organization it was, it was awesome. It's an honor, and I was very proud of him."

Sarka was presented the award Saturday morning in front of family and members of the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary in a special ceremony on Memorial Day weekend.

"He made little bracelets and gave them to the veterans," said Mitchell. "All of the ladies took a picture with him. We're very proud of him because he did it on his own."

Ben Baugh covers the equestrian beat for the Aiken Standard.

Among the awards Baugh has won include the 2003 Raleigh Burroughs Award as the turf writer making the most impact on the Florida Thoroughbred Industry.

Local 'Gypsy Wedding' episode airs tonight

Sat, 26 May 2012 20:29:15 GMT

By PHYLLIS BRITT

When tonight's episode of TLC's "My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding" airs at 10 p.m., some of the faces may be familiar ones.

Local owner of Edge Salon and Spa, David Towles was happy to be a part of the preparations for the first wedding in Murphy Village to be aired on the show.

"Most of the American segments of the show have featured Romani gypsies, not Irish Travelers," said Towles, who admitted that he has been very happy to get to know residents in Murphy Village better and to help with many of the special events there - including the upcoming show.

The bride is Tamara Riley, who was not raised in Murphy Village, and the groom is Bill McKown, who did grow up in Murphy Village. Towles said the TLC crew followed the couple around for months.

"Tamara was in the North Augusta High School pageant one year, and I did her hair," said Towles, explaining how he got involved.

He said the show on Sunday should be quite different from the others in this reality series.

"They (Irish Travelers in Murphy Village) are socially quite different from the Travelers in England," Towles said.

As he understands the history, Irish Travelers were originally not "gypsies" but owned land.

"They were eventually displaced in England," said Towles, who noted that historically Irish Travelers were "well-thought of by Irish gentry ... They valued their work."

While the TV show was being filmed, Towles was asked what he thought of the local Irish Travelers. He mentioned they are "very religious, very protective of their children." He used terms like "loyal" and "faithful."

He and his staff were part of the filming over two days, doing makeup, spray-tanning, doing nails and hair - including touchups during the wedding.

"We had a great time getting to know each other," he said of the experience.

Towles said he hopes the "My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding" producers will "sensitively portray the Irish Traveler community."

Referring to some past media coverage of the residents of Murphy Village, he added, "Hopefully, the show will give them a fair treatment."

While American society as a whole has changed drastically through the last few decades, "Travelers may just be stuck in a different time," he said.

Towles compared some of their traditions to other groups.

"The royal family has arranged marriages. ... When you look at their dress, think pageants. ... And the view of their marrying young: Well, 100 years ago, 18 was old for a bride."

Information on TLC's website described this episode titled "Murphy's Secret Village" as one in which "a teenage bride-to-be struggles to master a secret society's traditions in a bid for their acceptance ..."

Fundraiser event demonstrates benefit of therapy using horses

Sat, 26 May 2012 20:29:03 GMT

By BEN BAUGH

If temptation resisted is the true measure of character, Cody the Paint Horse found Temptation Alley a formidable challenge. Cody participated in the demonstration Saturday morning showcasing the benefits of using equine-assisted psychotherapy.

The event was hosted and sponsored by Boots, Bridles & Britches and served as a fundraiser that also featured a cookout as a way to support U.S. troops. Suze Maze, a former Thoroughbred racehorse jockey and certified licensed professional, uses the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association model to treat post-combat-related-transitions.

Temptation Alley provided a number of challenges for the people who were on each side of the horse, as they did their best to preclude Cody from reaching into the bucket for the treat inside. Participants attempted to guide the horse through the path featuring a variety of obstacles and inducements.

Maze conducts sessions for soldiers and veterans at Equine Rescue of Aiken after hours on weekdays, evenings and Sundays.

"I've been privileged enough to watch this demonstration with a veteran," said Jim Rhodes, Equine Rescue of Aiken farm manager. "I'm talking about a man's man, and, within 15 minutes of working in a nonclinical type of application at the rescue with a horse, this guy was breaking down and talking about all of his problems. And this was a guy who was just coming to watch the demonstration. He wasn't part of it. He actually broke down and was talking about family issues."

Stephanie Bowman, the founder and director of Turning Point Growth and Learning Center in Blythewood, was also at Saturday's demonstration.

"I came across the information about equine-assisted growth and learning four years ago," said Bowman. "I went for some training, and I was blown away by what I experienced and saw, so I pursued getting certified with EAGALA. I tried to connect with people in South Carolina who are certified, and that's how I met Suze."

Life has a number of obstacles, like fear, and the horse can symbolize motivation in an exercise like Temptation Alley to get around those obstacles, said Maze.

"There's a quote up on our board," said Maze. "EAP isn't horsemanship. It isn't do like me, it's do like you are."

Ben Baugh covers the equestrian beat for the Aiken Standard. Among the awards Baugh has won include the 2003 Raleigh Burroughs Award as the turf writer making the most impact on the Florida Thoroughbred Industry.

Upperline makes it consecutive stakes wins captures Matron

Sat, 26 May 2012 19:55:52 GMT

By BEN BAUGH

Upperline made it consecutive graded stakes wins with a 4-length victory over the Polytrack Elite surface Saturday in the 1 1/8-mile $150,000 Grade 3 Arlington Matron Stakes at Arlington Park. The 5-year-old mare by the 1995 Eclipse Award winning Two-Year-Old Male Maria's Mon was ridden masterfully by jockey James Graham. Upperline was broken and trained in Aiken by Legacy Stable's Ron Stevens and Brad Stauffer.

The bay mare raced just off the pace early in the contest, before settling off the leaders in close stalking position. Graham patiently sat on Upperline looking for an opening and moved toward the rail, and would eventually go to the outside of Hooh Why before drawing away to win convincingly. It was Upperline's 6th stakes victory, and her second in as many starts after capturing the 1 1/2-mile Grade 3 Grey Goose Bewitch Stakes at Keeneland on April 26 by a 1 1/2-length margin. Upperline is owned by Stone Farm, John Adger, Oakcrest Farm and Mike Stidham, who also conditions the horse.

Upperline increased her lifetime earnings to $585,308.

Ben Baugh covers the equestrian beat for the Aiken Standard. Among the awards Baugh has won include the 2003 Raleigh Burroughs Award as the turf writer making the most impact on the Florida Thoroughbred Industry.

Group honors tombs with star-spangled banner tribute

Fri, 25 May 2012 23:53:05 GMT

By CHRIS WALSH

To do their part in honoring veterans for Memorial Day, a trio of members of the Pinelawn Cemetery Committee visited the grounds to place American flags on more than 100 tombstones of known veterans.

"This is a patriotic thing to do," said Hallie Holland, a committee member who is also a veteran. "We know these are our veterans, and we buy the flags and put them out because we figure it's the right thing to do."

Holland and fellow VFW Post 212 member Robert Ryan joined Pinelawn Cemetery Committee president Ella Ruth Curry Simpkins at the cemetery to put flags in front of 130 tombstones.

One of the tombstones they visited was that of Winthrop Hall, for whom VFW Post 212 is named.

The group was formed roughly six years ago to clean up and restore the historic cemetery. Paying tribute to the veterans is just one of projects they have undertaken.

"About six years ago, a group of us got together and started having fundraisers to restore the cemetery," Holland said.

After forming the committee, the task of restoring the rundown cemetery - which was given to the African-American community in the mid-1850s - was undertaken by the VFW and other local residents looking to return it to good condition.

Holland said they place flags in front of every tombstone they know that belongs to a veteran, but he asks for family members to contact him if there may be more veterans that the restoration committee is unaware of.

Chris Walsh is the arts and entertainment reporter for the Aiken Standard. He graduated from Valdosta State University and hails from Atlanta.

Celebrate Memorial Day with ice cream, parade

Fri, 25 May 2012 23:53:02 GMT

By ANNA DOLIANITIS

Aiken's annual Memorial Day Parade, organized by the James L. Hammons Marine Corps League Detachment 939, will take place this afternoon in downtown Aiken.

The event, which has been sponsored by the local Marine Corps League for the past 15 years, will begin at Park Avenue and Union Street at 1 p.m.

More than 70 groups will participate in this year's parade, including the Aiken Public Safety Honor Guard, the Army Signal Corps Band and more than 10 other military units, according to a Marine Corps League press release.

Air Force Maj. Perry M. Smith, an Augusta resident who served in the Air Force for 30 years commanding an F-15 wing and serving as the top Air Force commander, will serve as the parade's grand marshal.

Smith flew 180 combat missions during the Vietnam War and has written six books, including "Rules and Tools for Leaders," according to the press release.

Among the parade's attendees will be U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson and U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, who will also attend an ice cream social sponsored by the Aiken County Republican Party immediately following the parade, beginning at 2 p.m.

The ice cream event will be held in The Alley in downtown Aiken, at 214 Park Ave. S.W.

Families are invited to stop by the social to enjoy free ice cream.

Parade spectators are encouraged to bring towels, blankets and folding chairs to sit in while enjoying the parade.

Detours are expected downtown between 1 and 3 p.m. due to the parade, according to Aiken Public Safety.

During the parade, both lanes of Park Avenue along the parade route will be closed off, and Laurens Street N. will also be closed off from Park Avenue to Barnwell Avenue.

Police are also encouraging drivers to avoid the intersections of Park Avenue and Orangeburg and Union streets.

Reporters Amy Banton and Karen Daily contributed to this article.

Anna Dolianitis is a reporter for the Aiken Standard. She covers the Department of Energy's Savannah River Site, as well as court and legal matters affecting Aiken County. She has been with the Aiken Standard since August 2010.

Equine therapy demonstration to be held today

Fri, 25 May 2012 21:57:01 GMT

By BEN BAUGH

A cookout and fundraiser is being held today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Boots, Bridles and Britches, as a way of supporting our troops.

Those attending will have an opportunity to watch live demonstrations on how to treat post-combat-related transitions using equine-assisted psychotherapy, said Suze Maze, who will be conducting the clinic. Donations are welcome.

Maze, a former jockey, became involved with equine-assisted psychotherapy after attending a workshop when working and living in Lexington, Ky. It provided her with an opportunity to combine her previous experience of working in the Thoroughbred industry with psychotherapy.

"I first used equine-assisted psychotherapy under the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association model," said Maze, who is now certified in the therapy. "I started with one horse and ended up with a herd of five that all assisted in the therapy sessions."

EAGALA is the only model of equine therapy that deals strictly with mental health issues in a professional setting, said Maze.

"EAGALA is rooted in therapeutic theories which all psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers derive their basic foundation," she said. "The horse assists in the therapy by reacting to what the client is relaying to them non-verbally."

Maze conducts sessions for soldiers and veterans at Equine Rescue of Aiken after hours on weekdays, evenings and Sundays. Those wishing to participate must have the proper attire and not be allergic to horses, said Maze.

Safety for those taking part is paramount. The service is provided free of charge to those without insurance. There's also an Adopt a Solider program, she said.

"There is an assessment done at the beginning to make sure this modality of therapy is right for this person or family, and, at that time, a clothing list will be provided," said Maze. "And because most of the services are free, we need monetary support from the community."

Boots, Bridles & Britches is located at 1310 E. Pine Log Road.

Ben Baugh covers the equestrian beat for the Aiken Standard. Among the awards Baugh has won include the 2003 Raleigh Burroughs Award as the turf writer making the most impact on the Florida Thoroughbred Industry.

Career Center holds second kit-car race

Fri, 25 May 2012 21:56:58 GMT

By ROB NOVIT

The Automotive Technology team felt pretty good going into the championship finals of the Aiken County Career and Technology Centers's annual car-racing competition on Friday.

A total of 12 teams - all of them composed of students from specific career fields - built the 18-inch cars from kits.

"We won our heat by seven laps," said Aulstin Beard of the auto technology squad. "So we felt confident for the finals."

The confidence was justified, although the team had to hold off the Megatronics squad in the 32-lap event. Megatronics had won the first heat.

Taking third overall was Machine Tools, while the Auto Detailing team finished fourth. They had finished second in their respective heats. Auto Detailing, which combined with an office/cleaning class, also won for best designed car.

"We had the best time building the car," said Megatronics member Brandon Aguirre.

His teammate, Dale Johnson, said the construction process was intended to get the car through two heats in one piece in a race where crashes and dives over the tire-tread "fence" were common.

While it might be a challenge for an agriculture education team to build a car, the opportunity is great for all the Career Center programs, said teacher Kevin Sox. The competition stresses teamwork and creativity in designing the body.

"Our involvement also focused on designing a new track," Sox said. "We wanted to make it so it would be more about control and not speed. The course has a lot of turns and a hill that can flip a car if you're not careful."

Career Center director Brooks Smith said he introduced the car races in 2011 to provide a project that seniors could look forward to.

"They're learning about radio frequencies," Smith said last year. "There are a lot of electronic and many other technical skills involved. It's really a culmination of the skills and teamwork they've developed throughout the year and required a lot of problem-solving."

Megatronics teacher Stan Johnson agreed that the new track, located in front of the facility, is more about remote-controlled driving capability.

"You could go wide open last year," he said. "But this year, the cars had to be set up for this type of track. We put about 20 hours of work putting together the car."

Senior writer Rob Novit is the Aiken Standard's education reporter and has been with the newspaper since September 2001. He is a native of Walterboro and majored in journalism at the University of Georgia.

Aiken Writing Project to host Summer Institute

Fri, 25 May 2012 21:56:55 GMT

By ROB NOVIT

Once again, the Aiken Writing Project is seeking teachers from Aiken, Edgefield, McCormick and Allendale counties to participate in the annual Summer Institute at USC Aiken in July.

Teachers who have attended the program become models for effective writing instruction in their classrooms, said USCA English professor Dr. Lynne Rhodes, the program coordinator. The area program gets support through the National Writing Project, USCA and the Aiken County School District.

The registration deadline is Thursday, and interested teachers may apply by visiting www.aikenwritingproject.org.

During the 2012 session, the program will collaborate with the Ruth Patrick Science and Math Center for Teaching Excellence. The institute participants will design "Traveling Integrated Literary Trunks" that meet new Common Core state academic standards.

After participating in the 2011 Summer Institute, "I learned so much about myself as a writer and as a teacher of writing," Midland Valley English teacher Leslie Gunter said via email. "From this experience, I carried new strategies back to the my classroom. My students have grown in their writing abilities."

Her experience last year has allowed Gunter to become a resource for other teachers. That's a big part of the Summer Institute mission, Rhodes said. The teachers at the institute share best practices and ideas and then can take them back to their home schools.

The Aiken Writing Project provided Ridge Spring-Monetta High teacher Kayla Hyatt with an opportunity to experience writing strategies for different disciplines.

"I also used numerous writing assignments I learned from AWP with my first creative writing class," Hyatt said. "This workshop was a very positive and exciting experience I would recommend for all educators.

The program will be held at USCA in the Humanities and Social Sciences Building. The dates are July 9 through 12, 16 through 19 and 23 through 26. Each participant will receive significant graduate credit, as well as a binder of classroom-tested procedures and strategies related to writing.

Using work she started at the 2011 Institute, Busbee Corbett Elementary Middle School teacher Jennifer Craig was published in an area literary magazine.

"I learned several new techniques that I have instituted (in my classroom) this year, including round table - creating a story with the students in groups, one line at a time," she said. "It's collaborative, spontaneous and fun."

Senior writer Rob Novit is the Aiken Standard's education reporter and has been with the newspaper since September 2001. He is a native of Walterboro and majored in journalism at the University of Georgia.

Graniteville Specialty Fabrics acquires two coating machines

Fri, 25 May 2012 21:25:08 GMT

Submitted article

Graniteville Specialty Fabrics, a recognized leader in the production of specialty coatings and coated fabrics, purchased two coating machines from Mascoe Systems Corp., the largest manufacturer of coating machines in the United States.

As many as six coating methods are built into the coating machines.

The coaters are built with high-tolerance machining practices and digital set point technology, which allows for absolute repeatability of required coating specifications.

"We selected machine features that will allow Graniteville to continue our high-quality coating development, yet enable us to explore new coating practices and specialized technical solutions," said Jim Egan, president of Graniteville Specialty Fabrics. "Although we have been perfecting coated fabrics for more than 60 years, we remain committed to developing the most innovative, custom fabric offerings for our diverse client base.

"This new machinery will assist us in continuing those efforts and allow us to further expand our custom coating capabilities."

For more information about Graniteville Specialty Fabrics, call 663-2646 or visit www.graniteville.net.

About Graniteville Specialty Fabrics

For more than 60 years, Graniteville Specialty Fabrics has been a recognized leader in coated fabrics, continually inventing and perfecting their coating methodology.

Through innovative processes that combine modern chemistry and technology, Graniteville excels in the development and sourcing of custom coatings and creating specialized technical solutions to meet specific, and often unique, end-user requirements.

As a specialty coatings provider, Graniteville takes great pride in the spirit of innovation, quality production and a rigid commitment to protecting the environment.

Diavoli Rossi defeats Duck Hill Farm/Casa Azul to reach finals

Fri, 25 May 2012 21:22:03 GMT

By BEN BAUGH

Diavoli Rossi was on a mission Friday afternoon at Whitney Field and never lost their focus. They found themselves in a must win situation against Duck Hill Farm/Casa Azul in the Aiken Polo Club's USPA Congressional 8 goal tournament having to win by a 9 goal margin to reach the tournament's finals.

They managed a 14-5 victory, in a game that saw them score 7 goals in each half, and they'll meet Hutchinson Farm/FirstView Sunday at 3 p.m. at Whitney Field.

Tommy Biddle, Jr. wielded the hot mallet for Diavoli Rossi, scoring 11 times in the win. However, it was Matthew Fonseca that opened the game's scoring successfully converting a penalty shot. Biddle, Jr. scored in all 6 chukkers, including 5 goals in the first half as Diavoli Rossi set the tone in the game, by not only controlling possession of the ball for most of the first half, but also limiting Duck Hill Farm/Casa Azul's offensive opportunities. The score could have been even more one-sided had Diavoli Rossi been more accurate with their penalty shooting and finished more of their plays, particularly in the 1st chukker. Duck Hill Farm/Casa Azul's John Gobin broke up several plays stifling several Diavoli Rossi drives in the 2nd period, but he couldn't stop Biddle, Jr. who finished a play started by Andrew Siebert, and he would continue his torrid scoring pace with a goal from the ensuing Bowl-in.

The 3rd chukker was no different, Biddle scored on a penalty shot and from the field, and Fonseca added his 2nd goal on a successful conversion before Gobin ended the Duck Hill Farm/Caza Azul scoring drought.

Duck Hill Farm/Casa Azul would finally get on the board in the waning seconds of the first half with John Gobin scoring the first of his 4 goals in the game on a successful 40-yard penalty shot. Diavoli Rossi took a 7-1 lead into the 4th chukker.

A clear objective provided Diavoli Rossi with the motivation they needed to continue their strong offensive play, and they would continue to get opportunities. Tommy Biddle, Jr. scored 2 consecutive goals, the second from the field while shaking off defenders. Gobin was able to momentarily stop Diavoli Rossi's prodigious offense with Duck Hill Farm/Casa Azul's first goal from the field. The Diavoli Rossi offense answered back with another goal by Biddle.

Duck Hill Farm/Casa Azul had arguably their best chukker in the game during the 5th frame, and were able to reduce the deficit to 6 goals. Matt Sekera lofted a ball high through the uprights from more than 100 yards out, and John Gobin picked up his 3rd goal of the game via the penalty shot route. But the opposition's success didn't seem to phase Diavoli Rossi as they picked up goals from Siebert (from the field) and Biddle, Jr. (Penalty shot) to increase their lead to 8 goals going into the final chukker.

"The horses are going good, we came out strong and focused," said Biddle, Jr. "We've been playing well all season. It's tough to play when you go up by that much, even though we knew what we had to do, and sometimes you relax, and we gave up two goals, and then you start pressing because we know we had to win by a lot, and then you make some mistakes. Lauren (Biddle) did an awesome job shutting down Matt (Sekera) in the first half, and Andrew was marked up on his man."

Tommy Biddle, Jr. scored twice in the 6th period, the first on a 60-yard penalty shot, the latter goal from the field, but that would be the insurance they needed as John Gobin scored on a penalty no. 3 late in the game.

Meeting will focus on how to help young people of Aiken

Fri, 25 May 2012 21:12:55 GMT

By ROB NOVIT

Aiken native Dr. Mike Weaver will appear at the Smith-Hazel Recreation Center today at 2 p.m., seeking young people and adults to take a bus trip to New Orleans in July.

Weaver, a 1982 Aiken High School graduate, is calling the trip the 2012 Teen Leadership, Culture and Service-Learning Tour.

Teenagers and adults from Atlanta also will participate in the project, but Weaver wants as many Aiken County residents as possible to participate as well. He's encouraging them to attend the Smith-Hazel meeting today. There will be another registration and informational meeting at Smith-Hazel on June 23.

"We'll spend three days and two nights in New Orleans July 13-15," Weaver said. "This is about giving back and helping in the redevelopment and rebuilding of New Orleans."

The cost of the trip is $70 for teenagers with scholarships and $170 for adults. To earn a scholarship, teenagers will be asked to provide a letter of recommendation from a counselor, minister, educator or mentor.

They also must write an essay of 250 to 500 words on one of four topics - strategies for reducing crime and violence in Aiken, the benefits of a service-learning project in another city, the meaning of leadership or what volunteers can do to help young people in Aiken.

Weaver is also asking Aiken residents to sponsor a young person for $70. They can donate through PayPal at www.CELSJr.org.

"Will you support the young people of Aiken?" Weaver wrote in an email. "If we don't give them positive alternatives, the streets are waiting."

The New Orleans itinerary will include a volunteer project, The Rebirth Center; a service-learning mission within the West Bank, a bus tour of the city and much more.

Weaver has concentrated during his career on public health in such areas of HIV/AIDS, health promotion, education and behavior and the African-American community.

During today's meeting, he also plans to spend some time discussing homicides and other criminal activity in the City of Aiken.

Senior writer Rob Novit is the Aiken Standard's education reporter and has been with the newspaper since September 2001. He is a native of Walterboro and majored in journalism at the University of Georgia.

Blotter for May 26

Fri, 25 May 2012 21:12:52 GMT

An Aiken man reported that he lost his wallet in Atlanta while he was at the airport earlier this month and recently learned that his identity was stolen and used to open a cable account in his name. The total amount for the bill is more than $275.

A Dragstrip Road resident reported finding an abandoned vehicle on his property this week. Deputies learned the vehicle had been stolen in the City of North Augusta.

A Tess Street resident reported that a GPS unit was stolen from her unlocked vehicle Wednesday.

A Midland Pines Drive resident reported that a phone charger, sunglasses and chewing tobacco were stolen from an unlocked vehicle Thursday. The victim said the items were not valuable but wanted the incident reported.

Local Auxiliary members attend national workshop

Fri, 25 May 2012 21:12:48 GMT

Submitted article

The 2012-13 American Legion Auxiliary National Membership Workshop was held May 5-7 in Indianapolis, Ind.

The keynote speaker was Lt. Col. Steve Russell (ret.), who served 21 years in the U.S. Army as an infantry officer. During his command of the 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, he was widely covered by the news media.

He and his unit were featured in BBC Panorama's "Saddam on the Run" documentary, as well as Discovery's "Ace in the Hole."

As a sought-after speaker at events across the United States, Canada and Europe, Russell draws upon personal and unit experience to share practical leadership techniques, problem solving and decision-making under pressure. Russell is the author of "We Got Him! A Memoir of the Hunt and Capture of Saddam Hussein."

He retired from the Army in 2006 to return to his native state of Oklahoma, where he resides with his wife and five children. He also serves in the Oklahoma Senate.

For information regarding membership in the American Legion Auxiliary, call 279-5074.

Police seek man about ATM fraud

Fri, 25 May 2012 20:43:59 GMT

Aiken Public Safety is asking for the public's assistance identifying a man photographed at an ATM in reference to reported fraudulent ATM transactions, which took place in early April.

Anyone with information related to the identity of the subject pictured or his location is asked to call CrimeStoppers at (888) CRIME-SC (274-6372). Callers can receive a cash reward between $50 and $1,000.

Yanni to perform in Augusta on June 1

Fri, 25 May 2012 20:04:53 GMT

By CHRIS WALSH

One of the world's most famous pianists and composers, Yanni, will be making a one-night-only stop in Augusta at the Bell Auditorium on June 1.

The award winning, critically acclaimed musician has performed in front of more than 20 million people throughout his career, and is currently wrapping up a tour that has taken him to every corner of the world.

"It's been a joy. It's been difficult, but it's been a joy. And this particular tour, we went in more different countries and more exotic countries than any other tour in my whole life," Yanni said. "These experiences, when you put them all together in such a speed is, man, it opens your mind. It changes you. It brings such a hope. It brings the best out of you."

On this tour alone, Yanni has done everything from being honored by China with the adoption of a baby panda to being able to perform in the old Kremlin in Russia.

"One of the nicest things about my career has been that it has allowed me the opportunity to travel all over the world and go into places where most people wouldn't be able to get in," Yanni said. "I had come in contact with so many cultures and it's been going on for quite a lot of years. So that changes a human being. It opens your mind. The lessons are myriad when you come in contact with so many chances."

In the midst of his North American tour, Yanni comes to the Southeast before heading through larger venues in New York, California and Canada. The Bell Auditorium is one of many venues, that while they may not seat hundreds of thousands, they present a unique experience.

"I've done venues with the tens of thousands of people. And I've done venues with 2,000 people, maybe even less, 1,700 probably the smallest. It's, you know, when you're going through a smaller venue, the concert changes," Yanni said. "It's, you can touch the audience. It's like you're here in your living room all of a sudden with a bunch of your friends and you're talking to them. So I find myself when I do a concert in the smaller venue, I'm enjoying it a lot because I get to hear everything everybody says, or sometimes I engage them in a conversation and we start talking. They ask me questions. I start talking back."

And for someone that has seen all sizes of venues, large and small all over the world, which does he prefer?

"I love both. I will perform as strongly for 300 people as I would do for 300,000 people," Yanni said. "It makes no difference to me. Once I get on that stage, I'm on 100 percent. There's no 99 percent, or I don't feel good today or any of that stuff. It's just you're on, you're on. That's it."

Tickets for the show range from $45-$107. They can be ordered by phone at (877)-4AUGTIX, online at www.georgialinatix.com or at the box office.

Chris Walsh is the arts and entertainment reporter for the Aiken Standard. He graduated from Valdosta State University and hails from Atlanta, Ga.

ACA to offer art camps this summer

Fri, 25 May 2012 20:04:50 GMT

By Staff Reports

This summer the Aiken Center for the Arts will hold art camps for campers age 4 and up. The theme for the summer is "Van-go into ART ... and see where it can take you!"

Morning camps are offered for children ages 4 to 6 who have not completed kindergarten. Children who will be entering grades first through fourth in the fall may choose between full and half-day camps.

These weekly camps, held July 6 through 31, will visit a different part of the world each week. Campers can choose from Africa, Europe, the South Pacific and the Americas.

Art projects will be based on the weekly region and will include paint, clay, papier-mÃ¢chÃ© and mixed media.

Weekly workshops are also offered for students entering fifth grade and up in the fall. These workshops meet from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. and are based on a different theme each week.

These campers will use a variety of mediums each week as they explore different methods to present that subject. Subjects for these camps include Picasso, people, animals, pop art and odd and unusual art.

The cost of the camps for non-members is $120 for half-days and $200 for full days. Art Center members receive a 10 percent discount off all camp rates.

A limited number of need-based scholarships are still available to qualified applicants. For further information call the Art Center at 641-9094 or visit www.aikencenterforthearts.org.

Aiken police seek man for questioning in reference to ATM fraud

Fri, 25 May 2012 15:36:33 GMT

STAFF REPORTS

Aiken Department of Public Safety investigators are seeking assistance in identifying a man in reference to reported fraudulent ATM transactions that took place in early April.

Anyone with information related to the identity of the subject pictured or his location is asked to contact Crimestoppers at 888-CRIME-SC (888-274-6372). Callers can receive a cash reward between $50-$1000