September 2019 WIN p. 36 - Aiken Bella Magazine
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B A C K TO
TR ADITION
Tutu School
p.11
B A C K TO G R A S S R O OT S
Connect Aiken
p. 22
B A C K TO A I K EN
Going Home
p.12
B A C K TO H I S TO R Y
The DAR
p.28
B A C K TO W O R K I N G
TO G E T H E R
WIN
September 2019 p. 36
2 16
In this Issue September 2019, Volume 16, No.6
P U B L I S HE R
B A C K TO . . .
10 TR A DITION : Tutu School Susie Ferrara
12 A IKEN : Going Home Matthew Wynn 10
ladonnallc@gmail.com
15 Tending The Creative Fire E D I TO R
Ladonna Armstrong
16 FA LL : Pumpkins And Their Rich History,
editor@aikenbellamagazine.com
Traditions … And Pie! Phyllis Maclay 803-349-6026
22 GR A SSRO OTS : Are You Ready D IR ECTO R O F A D V E RT I S IN G
to Help #ConnectAiken Through Ladonna Armstrong
Arts + Music? Katy Lipscomb ads@aikenbellamagazine.com
803-349-6026
28 HISTOR Y: Daughters Of The American
Revolution: Promote Patriotism And G R A P HI C D E S I G NE R
Historical Preservation Kathy Cunningham
34 COMMUNIT Y: Taking Action To Prevent
Child Sexual Abuse Susan Meehan
Samantha Bodie
37 WOR K ING TO GETHER: Win Eleanor Togneri C O N T R IB U T IN G W R I T E R S
Kathy Cunningham
Susie Ferrara
Marti Healy
30 Zoom Heaton
IN E V ER Y IS S UE Jane Jenkins Herlong
Thomas Herlong
3 Letter From The Editor Ginger Hudock
Katy Lipscomb
4 Bella Buzz Phyllis Maclay
Susan Meehan
14 LIFE:The Story Of... Eleanor Togneri
Looking Back... Living Forward Matthew Wynn
Marti Healy
P H OTO G R A P HE R S
18 HUMOR: The Breast/Best Pearls
AP Gouge Photography
Jane Jenkins Herlong
Christine McKeel, Photographer
20 BUSINESS EXSELLENCE: Heather Sargent, Photographer
Back To Business Eleanor Togneri W EB S I T E M A N A G E R
24 NUTRITION :How To Eat To Maleah Powers
Heal From Cancer Ginger Hudock S O CI A L M E D I A M A N A G E R
Flourish Media
26 Bella Backs Businesses
Aiken Bella Magazine is published in Aiken,
14 28 30 FIN ANCE: A Different Approach
South Carolina, by Ladonna, LLC, nine times a
Thomas Herlong
year: February, March, April, May, Summer (June-
32 HEALTH : Back To Health August), September, October, November, December.
Zoom Heaton
Subscriptions are available for $30/year (9issues),
36 Downtown Shops payable to Aiken Bella Magazine, 142 Laurens
39 Scene Around Town Street SW, Aiken, SC 29801
R E A D B E L L A O NL INE
Front Cover photo by
www.aikenbellamagazine.com
AP Gouge Photography
www.facebook.com/aikenbellamagazine
www.instagram.com/aikenbellamagazine
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 19 A D D I R E CTO R Y
210 York – Megan Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Cherry Bekaert – Cindy Meares, CPA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Ladonna LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
3 Monkeys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Child Advocacy Center of Aiken County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Mane & Shell 2019. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
AP Gouge Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Cornerstone Wealth - Jeff Powell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Marti Healy Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
ADDA – October Fest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 CSRA Multimedia, Inc.– Jeff Siler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Pitter Patter/Caroline’s Boutique. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Aiken Center for the Arts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 DJ Essie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Pruitt Health. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Aiken Chamber of Commerce – Aiken’s Makin. . . . . . . . . . 13 EGS Inc.– Byron Bush. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Readings By Grace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Aiken City Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Elliott’s Home Consignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 The Screenprint Factory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Aiken Civic Ballet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Eleanor Togneri – Business ExSellence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Security Federal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Aiken Community Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Etherredge Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Shellhouse Funeral Home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Aiken Hattery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Equine Divine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Southern & Georgia Dermatology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Aiken Land Conservancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Farmers Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Southside Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Aiken Regional Medical Centers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 44 Flourish Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Spirit Fiddle – Robin Warren. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Aiken Symphony Orchestra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 31 Freeloader. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Studio on Laurens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Allstate Insurance – Tom Young . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Gail McLain, Meybohm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 The Super Smart Girl’s Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Anderson Insurance Associates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Ginger Hudock, Nutrition Consultant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 TLC Medical Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25, 26
Arbutus Studio – Pamela Moore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 The Greystone Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Tontour Life & Health Coaching – Joy L. Trammell. . . . . . . 26
Artisan Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Happy Housekeepers – Bobbie Jo Ward. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Upliff – Jonathan Larry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Artographs by Brooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Herlong and Doran Financial Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Wealthcare Financial Planners – William Coscioni. . . . . . 26
Austin and Pethick Law Firm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Hope Community Counseling Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 White Rose Eclectics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Auto Tech. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Hutson-Etherredge Insurance Companies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Center for African American History, Art and Culture . . . 35 Jane Jenkins Herlong, Author and Speaker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
3
B A C K TO
Partnerships are sometimes like marriages – some make it; some don’t. Of course, there are lots of other things and experiences in life I want to add as I go along
– for Bella and for myself. I have a feeling those will happen naturally.
Over the summer my business partnership split up, and I am happily publishing Bella
on my own now. Getting this first solo issue out has been difficult, but at the same time T H A N K S TO M Y “ B A C K E R S ”
it has exceeded my expectations. Once again I have received an overwhelming amount I want to thank the many people who have supported me in pursuing this dream and
of support from the community with comments like “You got this!” to “Let me know if making it come true. I feel very accomplished right now, and I couldn’t have done it
there is ANYTHING I can do to help you out.” Bella has been everything I thought it without you. There are too many to mention here, but the following were my heavy
would be, and I have been connecting with the community just as I hoped I would! That hitters, the ones that helped keep the game going:
partnership is working!
Kathy and Rob Cunningham Susie Ferrara and the
Chris Austin, Kevin Pethick, Aiken Civic Ballet board
B A C K TO B A S I C S
For quite some time, inside me, there has been a “pull” to this magazine, something I and Curt Hanna Keyatta Priester
needed to do. When faced with multiple challenges over the summer, it took everything Thomas Herlong and Andrew Doran Katy Lipscomb
I had in the way of perseverance and tenacity to get this issue out. I had a pure love of Martha Rivers Woody Malone
Aiken behind my efforts and at every crossroads, I chose Bella. Joshua Booth Brooks Reid Brown
I had a vision that I had to go back to basics. First, I had to define those basics, and keep Samantha Bodie Eleanor Togneri
them in front of me as my warrior shield for every challenge I took on. It turned out to Eva Jackson Jeff Siler
be very simple: Tony, Leslie, and Catherine Gouge John McMichael
God is good. He shows up, right on time. Christine McKeel and Susanna King Jonathan Larry & Byron Bush
Caroline Wade, Amber Ham, Zoom Heaton
I love my four daughters. and Josie Keith Martha Wise
I love Aiken. Dana Rideout Haley Knight and Bekah Muir
Joy Trammell Marti Healy
And right now, that’s enough.
Robin Warren Chunky, Krispy, and Moose
During the summer, I also learned something about accomplishment. For my father, now
Philly Sorensen All the writers and advertisers who have
deceased, I knew it was all about status and money. However, I just found out that for my
Barbara Morgan contributed to my first solo issue.
mother, it means setting a goal and attaining it. I am following my mother’s example, and
that’s why you’re reading this column right now. Jane Page Thompson And my four amazing daughters -
Betty Ryberg Anaya, Sophia, Vanessa, and Liyla
B A C K TO T H E F U T U R E Lyddie Hansen
Publishing a magazine means always looking to the future one issue at a time and
Tracy Seconi, Kayla Hitchcock,
also looking at the big picture. I want Bella to have a multimedia presence – print, Caroline Gwinn
online, blogging, social media, and even YouTube. I want to expand distribution beyond
that invisible 50-mile radius to draw more people into Aiken, so we can share this Thanks to you and all Bella readers, I’m BACK!
wonderful place we have. Ladonna Armstrong
Your home.
Your healthcare.
Get Back to What You Love
With inpatient and outpatient programs tailored to you, our
rehabilitation team can help you get back to your active lifestyle.
aikenregional.com
Physicians are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical
Centers. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language
assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website.
SAVANNAH RIVER 190150-7267 8/19
4
Community Calendar
September 2019
Bella Magazine will run announcements for nonprofit organizations, community events, and Bella advertisers.
Space my be limited. Please email event information to bellabuzz@aikenmagazine.com by the 15th of the month before the event.
D O W N TO W N A I K E N
Daily September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 September 7, 21
Hitchcock Woods is open to the public, on foot or on Bend and Brew Yoga at The Alley Taproom is fun and for Indie Arts Vintage Market every 3rd weekend monthly, 9
horseback, from dawn to dusk 365 days a year. Admission is everyone. It is a Vinyasa/Flow class that is about 60 minutes a.m. to 3 p.m. 616 Park Avenue SE. Browse and shop for vintage
free, thanks to donor support. Entrances are located at the west long. We are a community of people that want to move our and handcrafted items from local artisans at this pop up
end of South Boundary, Coker Spring Road, Berrie Road, and bodies, laugh, have fun and do something that our 90-year-old market. A perfect place to find that special treasure. Food truck
Clark Road, and at two places on the south side of Dibble Road. self will thank us for. and music. Parking on Horry Street. For more information,
For more information, including specifics about prescribed call 643-3701. September 21 – at Material Things, 616 Park
September 10
burns, call 642-0528, email info@hitchcockwoods.org, or visit Avenue SE. From 9:00a.m. – 1:00p.m.
Aiken Newcomers’ Club monthly luncheon, Newberry
hitchcockwoods.org.
Hall, 117 Newberry Street SW. Doors open at 9:30 a.m., with the September 14
Daily business meeting at 10:15 a.m., and lunch at 11:30 a.m. Cost is Aiken’s Celebration of African American Excellence –
Freeloader - Aiken’s “no tab cab” is ready for YOU! All $15, cash or check Meeting reservations/cancellations must be Dinner, awards, music, silent auction, exhibits, oral history
you have to do is text “freeload” to 555-888 and Freeloader made by email to newcomers29803@gmail.com, at the website collection, food and fun. Featuring Victoria Smalls,
will pick you up from your parking spot and bring you to your aikennewcomers.com, or by phone: A-L, Lynn Gluvna 734-657- Director of History and Culture at the Penn Center and
destination. Freeloader goes on a continuous loop around 6789, M-Z, Carol Wittig 624-3199. State Commissioner, SC African American Heritage
Downtown so you may also wave it down and it will stop to take Commission. Tickets: $25 Located at CAAHAC –
September 6
you to where you need to go! Monday - Thursday: 10:00a.m. - 120 York Street, NE - 6:00p.m.
St. Thaddeus First Family Friday at Camp Gravatt. Join
2:00p.m., Thursday - Saturday: 4:00p.m. - 10:00p.m.
us for FAMILY FIRST FRIDAYS at St. Thaddeus! SINGLES, September 21
Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday COUPLES, SMALL FAMILIES, BIG FAMILIES. Gatherings are Oktoberfest - Cultural event celebrating Oktoberfest with
Aiken Farmers Market, from sunrise to 12 noon, features usually held the first Friday night of the month. Programs vary, German-inspired food and beer vendors, an authentic
fresh produce, including seasonal vegetables and fruits, but there’s always plenty of opportunity for fun and fellowship. Oompah Band performing on the main stage along with DJ
local meats and cheeses, and home-baked goods. On the – ALL ARE WELCOME! Begins at 5:30p.m. Kenny Ray and local music as well. Located on Newberry Street
first Saturday of the month, Master Gardeners are available from 6:00p.m. – 10p.m. Cost: FREE
September 6-7
to answer questions. On all Saturdays, crafters offer their
Aiken’s Makin’ - A two-day arts and crafts event located Upcoming
products, such as woodworking, pottery, soaps, and jewelry.
on Park Avenve in beautiful downtown Aiken featuring October 17th- 20th - Aiken City Limits, 2019 Music
For more information, call 293-2214, email farmersmarket@
handmade craft exhibits, food and performing artists. Join us Festival. For more information visit www.aikencitylimits.com
cityofaikensc.gov, or visit aikencountyfarmersmarket.com.
for the 43rd Annual Aiken’s Makin’! Vendors show everything #connectaiken and see story on page 22.
September from pottery, wood-crafts, furniture, baskets, stained glass,
The SRS Heritage Museum is temporarily closed for quilts, clothing, needlecrafts, toys, jewelry, ceramics, art and
extensive renovations. It is expected to reopen sometime in many other items. Food is also a major part of this event.
October. This work is being done in advance of a new exhibit Applications for crafters and food vendors are now available.
that will focus on the families and businesses displaced when Starts at 9:00a.m. Sponsored by the Aiken Chamber
the Savannah River Plant was built. For more information, call of Commerce.
648-1437 or 648-5634, or email qualityprt@aol.com.
MU S I C S CENE
September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 September 19 September 12
Highland Park Grille, 555 Highland Park Drive SW, Join Third Time Charmers at Houndslake Country Club If you want to get involved in putting on events in Aiken,
Open Mic every Tuesday night 6:00p.m. for some dancing and dinner during this #connectAiken join Aiken Downtown Development Association at
Mini-event at 6:30p.m. Betsys Upstairs from 5:30p.m. – 6:30p.m. to learn the tricks
September 5, 12, 19, 26
of the trade. #connectAiken Event Mentoring Session.
Amp the Alley, 6:00p.m. to 9:00p.m. Visit a local restaurant, September 27
or sit or stroll The Alley with your favorite beverage while Join Bear and Friends at Highland Park Grille at the Aiken September 12
you listen to live music. Visit www.ampthealley.com for Golf Club for some music, dinner, and golf games. Follow Aiken Community Deliberative Diagoule Safety and
scheduled bands. Highland Park Grille for start time. Justice session: How Should Communities Reduce
Violence? At 6:00p.m., Hosted by Aiken Public Saftey at 834
September 14
Beaufort Street NE.
Aiken Music Fest – AJ Ghent – Witty, energetic, soulful
and funky, Music Series 6-10pm at Highfields Event Center,
118 Gaston Road NE, $10 per carload. 803-649-3505
A I K E N V I S I TO R S C E N T E R A N D T R A I N M U S E U M
406 Park Avenue SE, 803-293-7846, www.VisitAikenSC.com equestrian sites, the Civil War’s Battle of Aiken, the live oak September 21
Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. canopy on South Boundary, and a guided walking tour of Live bluegrass music by Depot Jam, 10:30a.m. to 12
Hopelands Gardens and the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of noon. Free.
September 7, 14, 21, 28
Fame and Museum.
Aiken Historic Tours depart from the Aiken Visitors September 28
Center and Train Museum at 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. on September 7 Live music by the Mountain Dulcimers of Aiken,
Saturdays, at the corner of Park Avenue and Union Roads ‘n’ Rails (Songs ‘n’ Tales), 10:30a.m. to 12:30p.m. 11:00a.m. to 12 noon. Selections may include old fiddle
Street. Visitors must arrive 15 minutes early. Cost is $15. Listen to railroad songs and a little bit of country music. Free. songs and Celtic and Irish music. Free.
Reservations are strongly suggested because the tour often
September 14
sells out. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/aiken-trolley-tour-
Railroad music with “Vinyl DJ” Doug Callahan,
tickets-35238190376, or call 293-7846 for tickets. The
11:00a.m. to 1:00p.m. Doug has an extensive collection of
guided trolley tour features historic homes, churches,
records and takes requests. Free.
5
A IK EN CEN T E R FO R T HE A RTS
122 Laurens St. SW, 803-641-9094, www.aikencenterforthearts.org art exhibit produced by the Handweavers Guild of America, Music
Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Inc and Aiken Artist Guild member Ellene Southerland. Beginner Bluegrass Guitar Masterclass –
Mondays – time; TBD, Taught by the well-seasoned guitar &
Ongoing September 9, 16, 23
banjo player, Kenneth Everett. These courses include a full
The Aiken Center for the Arts offers a full range of classes Skin Care Products (Body scrub, body butter, bath fizzies)
course book with chords, scales, tablature and other resources
and workshops covering painting, drawing, printmaking, In this beginner-friendly class you will learn how to make
that will have you picking like a pro in no time. 10 week
photography, pottery, textiles, and more. Also available are easy and luxurious beauty products using all natural and
courses. Guitar class fee is $300. Banjo class fee is $350.
fun and educational activities for the kids. For more organic ingredients. Learn a variety of techniques to create
information, call 641-9094 or visit aikencenterforthearts.org. high quality bath products for you to enjoy or to give as Swing Dance – Taught by the talented Essie Jennings!
a gift. Yummy snacks will be provided! Class fee is $95. Thursdays, 6:00p.m. – 8:00p.m. Lesson and dance -$15.
Through September 6
6:00p.m.-10:00p.m. Thursdays, 7:00p.m. – 8:00p.m. Dance only - $10.
Gallery exhibition featuring artwork by the artists
September 12, 19, 26.
of Franklin Delgado, Kenneth Everett, Ann LeMay in Joy in the Journey
the Main Gallery. Free and open to the public. For more Joy in the Journey – Thursday, September 19, call for Upcoming
information, call 641-9094 or visit aikencenterforthearts.org. details - FREE Beaux Arts Masquerade – Friday, October 18th,
7p.m. – 10p.m. $75 per person. Live & silent auctions,
September 19 Youth Art
costume contest, dancing. For tickets visit the gallery shop or
Join us for a Gallery Opening Reception for “Convergence: Good Morning Art – Wednesdays, 9:05a.m. – 9:35a.m.
call 803- 641-9094 or visit www.aikencenterforthearts.org.
Three Women, Three Voices” abstract works by artists September 4 & October 2 & November 6 & December 4 -
Penny Beesley, Betty Brand Perry and Lucy Weigle. Also on FREE
display during this time will be “Small Expressions”, a fiber
A EC O M C EN T E R FO R T H E P E R FO R M IN G A R T S
126 Newberry St. SW : : Tickets and information: 803-648-1438
September 5th through 14th at 7:30 p.m., September 8 at 2 p.m.
The Hunchback of Notre Dame, presented by the Aiken Community Theatre. Based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, The Hunchback of Notre Dame
showcases the film’s Academy Award-nominated score, as well as new songs by Menken and Schwartz. Peter Parnell’s new book embraces story theatre and features verbatim passages from
Hugo’s gothic novel. A sweeping score and powerful story make The Hunchback of Notre Dame an instant classic. Audiences will be swept away by the magic of this truly unforgettable musical.
Directed by Kyle Seconi.
A IK EN C O UN T Y P UB LI C LIB R A R Y
314 Chesterfield St. SW, 803-642-2020, www.abbe-lib.org September 6, 13, 20, 27 September 12
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Family Storytime, 4:00p.m. - 5:00p.m. Stories and songs
Homeschool Book Club, 12:30p.m. – 2:00p.m.
Tuesday, Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. followed by playtime. Help foster a love of reading with
Read a book on a preselected topic that interests you then
books, songs and activities that support early literacy skills.
Movie Viewings share it with the group and participate in a fun activity.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate. 10:15
September 7 Toy Story (G), 3:00p.m. - 4:20p.m. September: King Arthur.
Babies (ages 0-18 months) 11:00 Toddlers (ages 19 months-2
September 14 Toy Story 2 (G), 3:00p.m. - 4:35p.m.
years) 11:45 Preschoolers (ages 3-5 years) Please note: There Lego Club, 3:30p.m. – 4:00p.m.
September 17 POMS (Rated PG-13),
will be a special storytime for all age groups on September September 12, 26
6:30p.m. – 8:05p.m.
13 from 10:30a.m. to 11:30a.m. Let’s Talk About It: Food in Fiction Movie & Book
September 21 Toy Story 3 (G), 3:00p.m. – 4:45p.m.
Play & Grow, 10:30p.m. – 12:30p.m DUPLO blocks, toys, Discussion Series, 6:30p.m. – 8:45p.m.
September 3, 17
puppets, and more will be available for families to explore
Guided Group Meditation - September 3 - 6:00p.m. - September 19
in the first-floor meeting room. The Force Awakens: Interactive Viewing, 6:00p.m. –
7:00p.m. - Sept 17 3:00pm - 4:00p.m. Join us for guided
group meditation for beginners. We will listen to pre- September 7, 21 8:30p.m. For ages 9-12
recorded meditation exercises and then participants will Off the Hook Crochet Group, 12:00p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Do you Meet the Author, 3:30p.m. – 4:30p.m. Meet author Jamie R.
have a selection of activities to choose from. love to crochet? Would you like to spend time with others Gandy on September 20 starting at 3:30. Listen to readings,
who share you interest, share pointers, and socialize? Please ask questions and draw with him! For Children ages 5-10.
September 4, 11, 18, 25
bring yarn and a crochet hook! Meets the 1st & 3rd Saturday
Aiken Library Painting Club, 1:30p.m. - 4:30p.m. Do you September 24
of every month.
love to paint and enjoy being in the company of other artists?
Adult Book Club, 2:30p.m. – 5:00p.m. Each month the book
Join our Aiken Library Painting Club! You must purchase September 9, 16, 23, 30 club will read a book from the chosen theme and then meet
your own materials, but signing up is free! Please call or visit Partners in Friendship, 3:00p.m. – 4:30p.m. An elementary to discuss. Visit the Reference Desk or call the library at
the Reference department to sign up! (803) 642-2020 course in conversational Italian language and culture. (803) 642-2020 ext. 1131 for more information.
Suitable for adults & teens. Partners in Friendship
September 5
membership optional.
Adult Coloring, 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. Bring your own coloring
pens and pencils to enjoy a relaxing afternoon of creativity. September 10
Coloring sheets and refreshments will be provided. You are Teen Lego Club, 3:00p.m. – 5:00p.m. Join is for free
welcome to bring your own coloring books if you prefer. building and an information session to how would like us
Make your reservation in person at the reference desk or by to run this program! Future dates to be posted after this
calling (803) 642-2020 session. Grades 6-12.
A I K E N C O U N T Y H I S TO R I C A L M U S E U M
433 Newberry Street, SW September 4, 6, 7, 11, 13, 14,18, 20 September 24
803-642-2015 Please join us for a day at the museums. Visit the Aiken County Tour of Banksia, the historic home of the Aiken County Historical
Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Historical Museum and the Center for African American History, Museum, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Find out how much the building has changed
Sunday, 2 to 5 p.m. Art and Culture. View the amazing “Unforgettable” traveling exhibit in 87 years. The tour is free, but reservations are required; limited to
Closed Monday featuring photos from South Carolina’s own Cecil J. Williams and 15 participants. Call 642-2015 to register. This tour is offered on the
Free admission; donations welcome come by CAAHAC to view the Aiken County Civil Rights Exhibit. fourth Tuesday of every month except December.
CAAHAC’s Civil Rights Exhibit displays the history of the Aiken
County Branch NAACP, Reconstruction, and the Civil Rights
Movement in Aiken County and the State of South Carolina.
Please call for exact times.
U S C A IK EN E T HE R R ED GE CEN T E R
471 University Parkway September 14 Upcoming
803-641-3305 for tickets Aiken Symphony Orchestra’s Tchaikovsky The Four Tops – October 22, 2019
803-641-3243 for information “The Russian Genious”, 7:30p.m. See website for more information
www.usca.edu/etherredge-center
Fine Arts Series Aiken Civic Ballet Company:
August 19 – September 27: Leslie Alexander, Broken Ink Dracula – October 18 & 19 at 7p.m.
September 28 – October 28: Student Juried Exhibition The Nuctcracker – December 20th at 7:00p.m.
and December 21 & 22 at 2:00p.m.
6
H O P E L A N D S G A R D E N S A N D R Y E P A TC H
135 Dupree Place, 803-642-7631, www.VisitAikenSC.com September 3-6, 10-13, 17-20, 24-27 September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and The Clifford S. Gerde Carriage Museum, open 2 to 5
Daily
Museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 2 to 5 p.m., p.m., located adjacent to the Rye Patch stables. Discover
Hopelands Gardens, 135 Dupree Place, and Rye Patch,
Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 2 to 5 carriages that were once used for trips to the market, outings
100 Berrie Road, open 10 a.m. to sunset. Aside from strolling
p.m., inside Hopelands Gardens. Visit the new courtyard around town, commutes to and from work, leisurely travel,
the walking paths through beautiful gardens, visitors will
exhibits, the Whitney Tower Research Room, and the kids’ and even pony breaking. Visitors and locals are invited to
enjoy the labyrinth, the Historic Horses of Aiken display in
fun zone stall. For more information, call 642-7631 or 643- learn more about travel in the era before horsepower came
the Rye Patch stables, and the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of
2121, email halloffame@cityofaikensc.gov, or visit from an engine. Free and open to the public.
Fame and Museum. For more information, call 642-7631 or
www.aikenracinghalloffame.com.
email sradford@cityofaikensc.gov. September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
September 3, 10, 17, 24 The Doll House, open 2 to 5 p.m. in Hopelands Gardens.
Daily
Story Time in the Gardens, 4 p.m. New location: Rye Once used as a schoolhouse and play area for the Iselin
Little Free Library in Hopelands Gardens, located just
Patch, 100 Berrie Road incase of inclement weather. Snacks children, the Doll House showcases doll collections from
behind the Doll House. This exchange library offers reading
and drinks are welcome. Parents may want to bring a lawn many different generations. The Doll House is overseen by
material for readers 14 and under. Take a book to read, and
chair or blanket. Free admission and a free book for each the Aiken Garden Club Council. Free and open to the public.
leave a book for others to enjoy. Books are always free and
family in attendance; for children 8 and under, children
can be enjoyed while you visit Hopelands Gardens, or you
must be accompanied by a parent. For more information,
can take them home. You are encouraged to bring books to
call 642-7631, or email sradford@cityofaikensc.gov.
contribute to the library. The LFL is maintained by the Aiken
Council of the International Reading Association.
For more information, call 642-7631 or email
sradford@cityofaikensc.gov.
D U P O N T P L A N E TA R I U M / R U T H P A T R I C K
S CIEN CE ED U C AT I O N CEN T E R AT U S C A
Tickets and information: 803-641-3654 Tickets: $6.50 for adults, $5.50 for seniors, $4.50 for 4K-12 Defying Gravity: It IS Rocket Science!, 7:00p.m. Join host Apollo Aurora and her science reporters
students; all shows for USCA students, faculty and staff (with ID), $2. $50 annual membership card. as they explore the science behind rocket power, gravity on other planets, and even monstrous black
Reservations encouraged by calling 641-3654. rpsec.usca.edu/planetarium/publicshows.html holes! Robot experts Apple 1-6-8-6 and EGR-1 will also lend a few circuits to explain the force that
Note: If it is dark, and weather permitting, the RPSEC Observatory housing the Bechtel Telescope will be keeps us humans all grounded. Well, some of the time! Target audience: ages 8 and up
open for 30 minutes after public shows. There is no cost for these public observatory sessions. Sunstruck, 8:00p.m. Explore the sun in all its glory as you take a journey to the center of our
September 7, 14, 21, 28 solar system. You will discover the wonders of our magnificent sun and investigate how our
Big Bird’s Adventure: One World, One Sky, 6:00p.m. Follow Big Bird and Elmo as they star supports life on Earth. This program includes information on the structure of our sun, the
explore the night sky with Hu Hu Zhu, from the Chinese co-production of Sesame Street. source of its energy, and how solar activity impacts our world. Target audience: ages 8 and up.
Together, they take an imaginary trip from Sesame Street to the moon, where they discover how
different it is from Earth. Target audience: Ages 4 - 10
A IK EN R EG I O N A L M E D I C A L C EN T E R S
302 University Parkway, 803-641-5000 CSRA Dream Catchers -Traumatic Brain Injury and Pink Ribbonettes: 1st Tuesday, 10:30a.m. to 12 noon,
www.aikenregional.com Disability Support Group: 1st Monday, 6 to 7 p.m., at in the atrium of W. James Rivers Education Center,
Walton Options for Independent Living, 325 Georgia Ave., Millbrook Baptist Church, 176 E. Pine Log Road. This is the
Support Group Meetings
North Augusta. For those seeking assistance, information American Cancer Society self-help group for women and
September 3, 10, 17, 24 and education about head and spinal cord injuries and men diagnosed with breast cancer. Guest speakers cover
Aiken for Comfort Nar-Anon Family Group: Tuesdays, other disabilities. Registration required. Call 279-9611 or topics of interest to patients, caregivers, and survivors.
held at St. John’s United Methodist Church, 104 Newberry visit www.csradreamcatchers.weebly.com. Facilitator: For more information, call 641-0011 or 648-7365, or visit
Street NW. Nar-Anon is a 12-step support group for Les Paul Morgan. pinkribbonettes.org.
families and friends of addicts. You will hear others who are
Diabetes Support Group: 2nd Tuesday, 3 to 4 p.m., at Stroke Support Group: 1st Tuesday, 11:00a.m. to 12 noon,
going through similar problems talk about how they cope
Odell Weeks Center. Join others to discuss how to manage at Aiken Active Seniors, 944 Dougherty Road. To register,
and find recovery. Come to a meeting. There are no dues
diabetes better. Registration required. Call 293-0023. call Lisa Kucela at 502-8400 or 641-5643.
or fees to join. The group also guards with special care the
anonymity of its members. 803-270-5149 Lewy Body Dementia Association – M’Aiken a Difference Survivors of Suicide Bereavement Support Group:
Support Group: 3rd Tuesday, 11:00a.m. at the Daybreak 2nd Tuesday, 6:30p.m.to 8:00p.m., at MHA Aiken County,
Monthly Meetings Training Center, 151 Linden Street. For more information, 233 Pendleton Street NW. These meetings are open to
AA: Sundays and Wednesdays, 7:30p.m., Aurora Pavilion call 300-1266 or 648-0835, or email nancy13lbd@gmail.com. anyone who has experienced the loss of a friend of family
at ARMC. Designed for open discussion. member to suicide. For more information, call 641-4164 or
Mended Hearts: 2nd Friday, 10:00a.m. to 11:30a.m., at
Aiken Cares – Alzheimer’s Support Group: 2nd Tuesday, Allen B. Miller Nursing Building, USC Aiken. A volunteer
visit mha-aiken.org.
11:00a.m. to 12 noon, at Daybreak Training Center, 151 organization of people who have had heart disease and Classes
Linden Street. For family members and caregivers. Free others. For more information, call 641-1192 or 648-7002. Family and Friends CPR: This course covers the basics
and open to the public; no reservations needed. Facilitator:
Aiken Area Myelinators MS Self-Help Group: 3rd of CPR for adults, infants, and children; perfect for new
Linda Lucas. For more information, call Linda at 226-0288
Saturday, 10:00a.m. to 12 noon, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, parents! This course does not result in certification. Located
or 522-5893, or email linda@daybreakcare.com.
961 Trail Ridge Road. All are welcome, including family at Aiken Regional, Sixth Floor, Classrooms A and B. Cost:
Al-Anon: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 to 8 p.m., at St. Paul’s members. For more information, call Pam at 645-2092. $10. Thursday, September 5, 6:30p.m. – 9:00p.m. Register
Lutheran Church, 961 Trail Ridge Road. Support for those online at www.aikenregional.com.
dealing with another’s drinking. For more information, Parkinson’s Support Group: 1st Thursday, 1:00p.m. in the
atrium of W. James Rivers Education Center, Millbrook Standard First Aid, CPR and AED: The course covers
call 270-0853.
Baptist Church, 176 E. Pine Log Road. Support for breathing and cardiac emergencies in adults, infants and
Cancer Support Group: 3rd Wednesday, 2 to 3 p.m., at First Parkinson’s patients and caregivers. For more information, children. Participants will also be introduced to automated
Baptist Church, 120 Chesterfield Street, North. Emotional, email mk4316@gmail.com. external defibrillators (AEDs). Participant cards will be
educational, and spiritual support for families living with mailed following completion of the course. Located at
cancer. For more information, call 341-2530. Aiken Regional, Sixth Floor, Classrooms A and B. Cost: $45
(includes book). Saturday, September 7, 9:00a.m. – 4:00p.m.
Register online at www.aikenregional.com.
LE S S IE B . P R I CE A IK EN S ENI O R & YO U T H CEN T E R
841 Edgefield Ave, NW, 803-643-2178 Youth Pickleball: Learn the basics of pickleball. Creative Arts: Instructed by local artists and volunteers.
Program is ideal for those with little to no pickleball Call for more information and cost. Ages: 10 &up. Mondays,
September 4, 27 experience. Cost: $5 or $8 per class, ages:10-17. Tuesdays & 10:30a.m. - 12:30p.m. & Tuesdays, 12:30p.m. – 2:30p.m.
The City of Aiken Parks, Recreation and Tourism Thursdays, 10:00a.m – 12:00 noon. Family Story Time: Instill a love of reading in your child
Department presents, the Lunch Bunch Entertainment that will last a lifetime. Cost: FREE, ages: all. 4th Thursday of
Enrichment Programs
and Seminar Series. The purpose of the event is to every month, May – October, 5:15p.m.
Bingo! Score cool prizes or gift cards in this fun-for-all race
offer members of the community an entertaining and
to shout “BINGO!” Unlimited play for one hour. Cost: $1 Lunch Bunch: Lunch Bunch Entertainment and Seminar
informational lunchtime event. Citizens will be able to
for single card, $5 for 6 cards, ages: all. Fridays, 10:30a.m. – Series offer members of the community an entertaining and
enjoy their lunch while engaging in an informational topic
11:30a.m. informational lunch time event. Cost: FREE, ages: all.
seminar or enjoying entertainment from local area bands
Select Wednesdays & Fridays, call for exact dates,
and artists. This event is free and open to the public, please Brain Games: Gather and socialize while challenging and
12:30p.m. – 1:30p.m.
provide your own lunch. 12:30p.m. -1:30p.m. exercising your brain. Cost: FREE, ages: all. Tuesdays &
Thursdays, 9:15a.m. – 11:30a.m. Senior Club: Senior adults can play games and attend
Youth Programs
parties, special events, health seminars and community
Generation Pound: Youth-oriented program that fuses Cards, Dice & Dominos: Play your favorite bridge, canasta,
outgoings. Cost: Membership dues apply, ages: 50& up.
movement and music to improve focus, coordination, or pinochle games here. Cost: FREE, ages: all. Wednesdays &
Wednesdays & Fridays, 11:30a.m. – 1:30p.m.
physical fitness and teamwork skills. Cost: $8 or $10 per Fridays, 2:30p.m. – 5:30p.m.
class, ages: 6-12. Mondays, 3:15p.m. – 4:00p.m.
Coffee with a Cop: This program brings people together
Little Yogis: Through games and play Little Yogis will over coffee to discuss issues and learn more about each
explore age appropriate yoga and mindfulness with other. Cost: FREE, ages: all. Every 3 months, exact dates vary.
breath-work. Cost: $5 or $8 per class, ages: 3-5. Thursdays,
10:30a.m. – 11:30a.m.
7
O D E LL W EEK S CEN T E R
1700 Whiskey Road, 803-642-7631 Pet Programs Enrichment Programs
Ongoing Traditional Shotokan Karate: Tuesdays, 6:30p.m. to
September 4, 11
Numerous programs are offered, including bingo, card 7:45p.m. This non-contact style of karate teaches practical
Dog Training (Good Manners Program), 10:00a.m. to
clubs, mahjong and board games, yoga, line dancing, tennis, self-defense. It enhances concentration, self-discipline,
11:00a.m. This program, for dogs five months or older,
table tennis, pickleball, racquetball, senior basketball, rock confidence, and emotional control, while promoting health,
continues to May 22. Dogs will learn basic commands of
climbing, etc. In addition, there are several fitness classes fitness, balance, and agility. For ages: 7 and up. Cost is
come, sit, down, stay, wait, stand, etc. Topics include basic
which include boot camp, Pilates, outdoor fitness, and more. between $40 and $65 per month.
care for dogs. Dogs must be registered with the City if you
For more details, visit cityofaikensc.gov/etrak/ and click on reside in the City of Aiken, and you must provide a copy of Lightsaber Club: Fridays, 5:00p.m. to 6:30p.m. Join the Club
“brochure” to view Park Bench Magazine. your dog’s rabies certificate. Fees apply. and learn the sport of fencing using specialized lightsabers.
September 18 In addition to fencing skills, learn self-discipline, focus, and
Puppy Class (AKA S.T.A.R. Puppy Program), 11:15a.m.
The twelfth annual Aiken Senior Extravaganza is other values taught in martial arts. For ages: 12 and up. Cost
to 12:15p.m. This program, for puppies 10 to 20 weeks
guaranteed to offer many opportunities for both the is $15 to $25 per month.
old. This class is designed to provide owners with tools to
participants and the vendors. All surrounding area seniors, handle a new puppy. Puppies will learn a variety of skills Fitness Classes
their families, and caregivers are in for an informative, and commands and will take the S.T.A.R. Puppy Test at the Boot Camp: Transform your body with high-intensity
invaluable experience. The Aiken Senior Extravaganza will end of the course. Puppies must have a record of two sets of cardio and circuit training in a friendly atmosphere.
be held on Wednesday, September 18th, 2019 from 9:00 AM shots. Fees apply. For ages: 14 and up. Cost: $40 (eight classes per month),
until 2:00 PM at the H. Odell Weeks Activities Center – Dates and times vary.
1700 Whiskey Road in Aiken.
S MI T H - H A Z E L CEN T E R
400 Kershaw Street, NE, 803-642-7634 Notice: The outdoor pool at Smith-Hazel will be closed for the 2019 season. The entire pool
facility, including pool deck and bathhouse, will be renovated and open for the 2020 season.
Tuesdays and Thursdays
In the meantime, those wishing to swim may consider using the recently renovated pool at the
Seniors Club, 10:00a.m. to 12 noon. Want to be more social? Then join in the senior fun. Play
Aiken County Recreation Center, 917 Jefferson Davis Highway, Graniteville. Everyone swims
games, attend parties, special events, health seminars and community outings. For ages 50 and
free. All ages are welcome. For more information, call 663-6142 or visit aikencountyprt.com.
up. Cost is free. For more information, call 642-7634.
Enrichment Programs
Futsal: Come and develop your soccer skills with Futsal. Cost: ranges from $5 to $13 per visit
based on selected class. Ages: 7-17, Mondays & Tuesdays, 6:00p.m. – 8:30p.m. League Night –
Cost: $65. Ages: 18 and up, Wednesdays, 6:00p.m. – 8:30p.m. 7-week session
S COR E WOR KSHOPS
September 6 September 13 September 27
Non-Profit Grant Writing & Fundraising: Learn the Cellphone Apps for Business: Expense tracking, social Thinking of starting a business? Expectations, first steps,
essential elements that lead to success. 10:00a.m. - 12 noon media posting, and much more! 10:00a.m. - 12 noon Greater tips for success, resources. 10:00a.m. - 12 noon N. Augusta
N. Augusta Community Center Aiken Chamber Community Center
EQ U E S T R I A N E V EN TS
September 3-6, 10-13, 17-20, 24-27 given after the closing date. Concessions will be on the property. This event is free and open
The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum is open Tuesday through to the public for spectating. For more information visit schoolthevista.com/combined-test-
Friday from 2 to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m., inside and-dressage or call 803-262-5263. From 7:30a.m. – 3:30p.m. at The Vista Schooling and Event
Hopelands Gardens. Visit the new courtyard exhibits, the Whitney Tower Research Room, Center, 859 Old Tory Trail.
and the kids’ fun zone stall. For more information, call 642-7631 or 643-2121, email
September 28
halloffame@cityofaikensc.gov, or visit www.aikenracinghalloffame.com
Highfields Just For Fun Show, at Highfields Event Center, 198 Gaston Rd. For information
September 5-8, 12-15 visit www.psjshows.com/shows.html or call 803-649-3505.
Aiken Horse Park - Aiken Fall Festival I & II – USEF National/Premier – Equus Events
Upcoming
Inc. is proud to be a positive part of the community by supporting charitable organizations and
Aiken Horse Park – Young Horse Show – October 5 The Young Horse Show Series
other non-profit groups through their events. Based in the beautiful equestrian town of Aiken,
is designed to provide sporthorse breeders as well as owners, trainers and riders of all
SC, the shows offer something for everyone from the cross rail level to the grand prix jumpers.
disciplines an affordable show venue to introduce and evaluate their young horses to the show
803-643-5698
environment and “put on necessary mileage” with appropriate and special classes suitable to
September 8, 15, 22, 29 the proper development of young horses.
Sunday Polo, Sunday Games at 3:00p.m. – 5:00p.m. held at the Whitney Polo Field. For more
Aiken Horse Park - Aiken Fall Steeplechase – October 26 Aiken’s Fall Steeplechase event is
information call 634-3611 or visit aikenpolo.org
a wonderful way to spend a day seeing the horses fly, spending time with friends, and enjoying
September 4 the beautiful Aiken weather while tailgating!
Stable View Schooling Hunter/ Jumper Show, Hunter classes will be held in the Covered
Arena, and the jumper classes will be held in the Outdoor Arena. Held at Stable View Farm,
117 Stable Dr. starts at 10:00a.m. For more information visit www.stableviewfarm.com or call
484-356-3173.
September 11
Stable View Schooling Dressage Show, USDF and USEA tests available. To enter go to
stableviewfarm.com/schooling-dressage-online-entries, Held at Stable View Farm,
117 Stable Dr. From 12:00p.m. – 5:00p.m.. For more information visit www.stableviewfarm.com
or call 484-356-3173.
September 21
Come out and enjoy the fun at The Vista’s Combined Test and Dressage Show. Ride times
will be given out Friday morning before the show. Dressage starts at 8:00 am and Show Jumping
starts at 9:00 am. There will be a $10 grounds fee for non-competing horses. No refunds will be
ALSO-18018CR-DJ Essie Services Board.pdf 1 3/15/18 6:59 AM
8
EVENT DJ
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SERVICES
Proudly serving Aiken, Augusta, and the surrounding areas
HOLIDAY PARTIES • AWARD CEREMONIES • RECEPTIONS
BANQUETS • WEDDINGS • BIRTHDAY PARTIES
SCHOOL EVENTS
9
Our success is achieved through
our relationship with you!
Be a Part of Bringing the Beauty of Ballet to Aiken
VIP Ticket Packages
Choose from 5 levels of patronage with options for
reserved seat selection or priority seating to our annual
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November 2 & 3 at 7 pm
including a keepsake photo. USCA Etherredge Center
Choreographer, Norbert Nirewicz
Artistic Director, Diane Toole-Miller
Scholarship Sponsors
Support Aiken Civic Ballet pre-professional dancers
attending summer ballet intensives across the country
and receive reserved seat selection tickets to annual aikenballet.org
performances, invitations to special events and The Aiken Civic Ballet is a 501(c)(3) organization. Contributions are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
performance program listings. Please contact us at secretary@aikenballet.org for more information.
Don’t Miss Our Upcoming 2019 Performances and Events!
Dracula Nutcracker Tea Nutcracker
The The
October 18 & 19 Saturday, December 7 December 20 at 7 p.m.
at 7 p.m. at 1p.m. and 3 p.m. December 21 & 22 at 2 p.m.
10 Photo by AP Gouge Photography
BACK TO TR ADITION 11
Tutu School B Y S U S IE FE R R A R A
As students head back to school, one Aiken mom is leaving the classroom for her sewing room.
Costume designer Emily Raynor recently completed a week-long seminar to learn how to create one- D ID YO U K N O W ?
of-a-kind tutus and improve her costuming skills at Tutu School.
Here’s some tutu trivia to know before
“It was great to be with so many people who love to sew,” said Raynor. The author of the sewing pattern was there you go to the ballet.
to answer questions and give her insights from years of sewing. “The ruffling technique I learned will make a There are five types of tutus:
world of difference,” said Raynor.
Every little girl in dance class dreams of wearing a tutu, but when did it first appear? Marie Taglioni, the Swedish 1
Ballerina, took to the stage at the Paris Opera in 1832, wearing a skirt scandalously cut to show her ankles.
THE BELL
Designed by Eugene Lami and made from 30 yards of tulle, net and tarlatan, the bell-shaped design was dubbed
Short, stiff, no hoop, falls in a bell
“the Romantic” for its elegant sway. From the late 19th century onward, tutus steadily shortened, for ease of
shape; one of the classical tutus,
movement and to show off dancers’ legs. Today, tutus are no longer restricted to the stage, as millions watched
represented by Degas paintings.
Serena Williams play in the 2018 U.S. Open Tennis Tournament in an asymmetrical, tutu-style dress.
Mystical and the epitome of grace, not to mention the icon of ballet, modern tutus transform ballerinas into black
swans and sleeping beauties. Tutus are detailed to the extreme and customized to every sequin because they tell 2
the audience what role or character the dancer is playing. THE RUSSIAN PANCAKE
The anatomy of a tutu includes the bodice, the Basque (undergarment), and the frills, which are typically 12 The second classical tutu, it
layers of netting – 16 for extra fullness – to retain stiffness throughout movement. The process of making one is stands straight out from the hips,
painstaking. The basic tutu, which is just the skirt, takes about 20 hours; with embellishments, it can take 40 to 60 supported by embedded wire hoop.
hours. They’re expensive – $1,000-$2,000 for a teenager, or pre-professional entering competition.
“Getting netting through the machine is a wrestling match,” said Raynor. “You have to have patience, even when 3
you must rip out and re-sew the same layer many times before you get it right. After the netting settles down for a THE PLATTER
couple of days, you go back and finish the remaining layers,” said Raynor. The finished Russian-style tutu took 50 Akin to the Pancake, this
hours to complete, with 16 layers of netting, some doubled, and a hand-pleated top. tutu’s top layer is flat and
Raynor is currently working on costumes for the Aiken Civic Ballet’s upcoming performance, Dracula. “I’m sewing decorated, with no pleats.
Romantic-style tutus for the waltz scene. Not as complicated, but these must flow. I’m not a performer, but always
wanted to be a dancer. When I make costumes, I feel like I get to be part of the spotlight, too,” said Raynor. 4
The Aiken Civic Ballet will perform Dracula on October 18 and 19 at 7 p.m.; and The Nutcracker, December 20
THE POWDER-PUFF OR
at 7 p.m.; December 21, 2 p.m.; and December 22, 2 p.m., at the USCA Etherredge Center. For tickets, call
BALANCHINE TUTU
(803) 641-3305. Visit www.aikenballet.org for patron and business sponsorship information.
Short tutu, soft and full, no hoop.
5
THE ROMANTIC
Long, flowing tulle skirt,
midcalf length.
“When I make
costumes, I feel like
I get to be part
of the spotlight, too.”
Emily Raynor
A native of Aiken, Susie studied under the direction of Carl Crosby and is a former member
of the Aiken Civic Ballet Company. She also danced with the University of South Carolina
Dance Company, under the direction Susan Anderson, and the Robert Ivey Ballet Company
in Charleston, SC. She has 30 years of experience in Communications and Journalism, and
currently works in the Site Training Department at the Savannah River Site.12
B A C K T O A IK EN
GOING HOME
Matthew Wynn
The Welsh call it mynd adref: going home. Odysseus spent his But after four years, two hours felt like four days. The stretch
entire life just trying to go home. It took Moses over 40 years, from Orangeburg to Springfield never ends when you’re stuck
and then it didn’t really end that well for him. E.T. had to play behind a horse trailer. But when we finally made it to Aiken, to
dead and evade the government just to go home. And Princess my parents’ house, it was all worth it. And when we left, I’d get
Leia can never go home, it was vaporized by the Death Star. But that feeling you get when you’re leaving home.
for me it took four years. And 3,000 miles.
My wife and I agreed we’d love to move to Aiken. But there was
Way back in 2015, I was working as a baker and pizza chef at Lake a catch: we were both full-time employees of the public school
Theater Café, just outside Portland, Oregon. I had just graduated system. It reminds me of an anonymous Internet quote:
from Portland State and was trying to figure out my next move. “When I was a kid, I lived paycheck to paycheck. Now that
I started talking to a waitress I had a crush on. A few shifts I’m an adult, I live direct deposit to direct deposit.” So, I did
later, she said yes when I asked her out to see Transformers 2, what every other millennial who signed for loans they didn’t
even though neither of us had seen the first, or cared to. We understand did, I asked my folks for help. And fortunately for
drove to the beach instead, shared a bowl of clam chowder, and us, they could, and did.
fell in love. Soon, we decided to leave the Northwest and give
The U-Haul was loaded, and we were on our way to our new
the Southeast a try. It was a different time; gas was cheap, our
house in Aiken. But then, there was a catch. Again. The house
car was four years newer than it is now, and anything seemed
wasn’t ready. Again. This time, something about an out-of-state
possible. We packed our clothes, half my record collection, a few
bank. Go figure.
books and our dog, then dipped south and headed east.
So, for our first night back in Aiken, we
We had coffee in San Francisco and
stayed in my parents’ sunroom: my wife,
commented on how the hilly streets and
me, the dog, two cats, four walls of windows,
boulevards gave the city a character that
and an air mattress. It was cramped. It was
is lost in modern cities. We had Mexican
eerily familiar. In the middle of the second
food in Los Angeles and vowed always
night, a cat popped the air mattress. It was a
to keep tacos in our lives. A steak from a
blessing. It was a different time. It was three
Route 66 roadhouse in Arizona was only
weeks ago.
made better when we were able to walk to
the restaurant from our motel. In Texas, But it gave us a chance to explore Aiken
there is What-a-Burger. And so, we had It was a different time: with new eyes.
What-a-Burger, because when you grow up gas was cheap, our car I lost a staring contest with a crane, whom
in Texas, that’s just what you do. Arkansas
taught us to book ahead, but also not to was four years newer I named Frasier, at Hopeland Gardens.
There’s a park in the middle of this city!
judge. Because when the only hotel in town than it is now, and Most towns don’t even have sidewalks, let
with a vacancy is also hosting a national
convention for a famous motorcycle club, anything seemed possible. alone a park with waterfalls and rolling
hills and turtle ponds.
you have a decision to make. But in the
end, hundreds of Harley-riding men and We walked into a free lunch Downtown at
women clad in leather and tattoos all settled down by about What’s Cookin’. Before we could even see the menu, an official
eleven o’clock, and we all slept quite soundly that night. And looking man offered to buy us our meal, compliments of the
then there was Asheville. Now there’s a place that has an folks at TD North. We accepted his offer. The only thing better
energy. It’s that feeling you get in between seeing the lightning than a great lunch is a free great lunch.
bolt and hearing the boom. Maybe it’s the wake of folks looking
towards their dreams and jumping with both feet. Maybe it’s We walked from Flanagan’s to Cyndi’s Sweet Shoppe, from
the mountain air. Maybe it was the craft brew. The tail end of Aiken Brew Pub to The Pizza Joint. We talked to friendly people.
our adventure was our new house just outside Charleston. Strangers said hello. Folks were out, having a good time. It’s the
little things that you didn’t think you’d miss until you lived in a
But there was a catch: the house wasn’t ready. Fortunately for place where those things don’t happen.
us, my parents live in Aiken. So, we stayed in Aiken. We stayed
in my parents’ spare room for two weeks: my wife, me, and the That’s why we’ve come home. We weren’t born here. But Aiken
dog. It was the longest two weeks of my life. It was cramped. It is our home now. Our family is from Aiken. And I just got my
was uncomfortable. It was wonderful. It was a different time. change of address forms, so technically, so am I. And my wife.
And the dog. Oh yeah, and the cats. They just showed up and
Four quick years raced by in a flash of hurricanes, holidays, flu never left. That was three years ago.
shots, and that time it snowed a little bit. I realized, and my wife
was quick to agree, I wasn’t getting any younger. It was time to Last night I was leaving the Food Lion on Richland, and I didn’t
start our family. We both wanted to find a place that was a mix need to use the GPS to find my way home. We only moved into
of our childhoods. For her, it was summers at Lake Cushman in our new house three days ago and already I can make it home
Washington State or learning to sail on the Oregon coast. For me it without satellite assistance. It felt like the end of Star Wars:
was Pennsylvania farm shows in the fall and Texas chili cook-offs. A New Hope, when Luke refuses to use the computer in his
X-wing and instead relies on The Force as his guide to blow up
We also agreed that what we loved most about South Carolina the Death Star. The universe was my co-pilot. It felt familiar. It
was the time we were able to spend with our family in felt good. It felt like mynd adref.
Aiken. It was only a two-hour drive from Dorchester County.
Matthew Wynn was born in Pennsylvania, grew up in Texas and attended college in Maine and Oregon. He has been an after-school director, a
baker, a cook, and a tour-manager for his best friend’s punk rock band. The son of Alan Maclay (a proprietor of Cold Creek Nursery) and Phyllis
Maclay (a noted Bella author), he is the oldest and most charming of his five siblings. Matthew is an awesome husband and is super modest.
He enjoys the ironic, most things sarcastic, and at times, the sardonic. He is also a dog-person. Aiken photos by AP Gouge Photography.You can also read
