Impactful progress: a $168M update |
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The Aiken Chamber’s annual State of Our Community is back for its 18th year, promising another informative business event.
This business gathering and networking lunch is scheduled to take place Thursday, September 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and will be hosted at the Etherredge Center at USC Aiken.
Since its inception, the State of Our Community has been a cornerstone event for the Aiken business community, providing Chamber members and attendees with invaluable insights into the area's economic development, legislative achievements, and upcoming business agendas. Each year, the event attracts a diverse group of business leaders, entrepreneurs, public officials, and community stakeholders eager to gain a comprehensive understanding of the region's progress and future prospects.
This year's keynote speaker is the honorable Senator Tom Young, Jr., Chairman of the Aiken County Legislative Delegation and dedicated Aiken Chamber Board Member. Senator Young's involvement with the Chamber underscores his commitment to the local business community and the prosperity of Aiken.
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Senator Young will share a comprehensive progress report on major projects that have been funded in Aiken County with the $168 million settlement agreement between South Carolina and the federal government, specifically the U.S. Department of Energy, over the long-term storage of plutonium at the Savannah River Site.
The delegation fought vigorously to secure the funds for the region, and the funds are having a catalytic impact on enhancing the area’s infrastructure, attracting investments, and improving the quality of life for Aiken County residents.
Attendees will also receive insights into the 2024 Legislative agenda, with a particular focus on the items that will significantly impact businesses.
The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is committed to fostering growth, collaboration, and prosperity for its members and the broader community. The State of Our Community serves as a testament to this dedication. Together, we will continue to build Aiken’s future.
For those interested in attending the event and networking lunch, contact Director of Membership Services, Jim Tunison at jtunison@aikenchamber.net or call (803) 645-0144. |
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There were smiles galore when representatives of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce gifted over 125 new Aiken County public school teachers with $50 cash to help set up their first classrooms. Contributions from numerous member businesses and individuals were presented during the school district’s ice cream social for induction teachers on July 20.
The Aiken Chamber of Commerce and its members are committed to the area’s future and to the workforce that these teachers are helping to develop. Together, we can ensure that our economy continues to thrive, and our quality of life continues to grow.
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Add your company name to the list of Chamber members invested in telling Aiken's story |
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Advertisers as of July 26th are:
- Aiken Community Theatre
- Aiken Electric Cooperative, Inc.
- Aiken Physicians Alliance
- Aiken Regional Medical Centers
- Aiken Scoop Group
- Aiken Technical College
- Alfred Benesch & Company
- Alison South Marketing Group
- Augusta-Aiken Orthopedic Specialists
- Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC
- Bridle Creek
- BTD South Carolina
- The Center for African American History, Art & Culture
- Center for Primary Care – Aiken
- Centerra – Savannah River Site
- City of Aiken
- Colony at South Park
- Concierge Property Management Group
- Cruises by PopPop LLC
- Debbie Roland, Realtor at Coldwell Banker Best Life Realty
- Dominion Energy
- Donna Taylor, Meybohm Real Estate
- George Funeral Home & Cremation Center
- Hixon’s Roofing & Construction, LLC
- Hurricane Builders
- Janney Montgomery Scott, LLC
- Karen Daly, Meybohm Commercial
- Kitfox Pediatric Dentistry
- Manpower
- Mead Hall Episcopal School
- Merit Flooring, Kitchen & Bath
- Meybohm Real Estate
- Navigating My Medicare
- Oaks Senior Living Community at Aiken
- RE/MAX Tattersall Group, LLC
- Rolls-Royce Solutions America Inc
- SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare
- SRP Federal Credit Union
- St. John’s United Methodist Church
- University of South Carolina Aiken
- Visit Aiken SC
- Western SC / Economic Development Partnership
- Woodwinds Apartment Homes
- Zeus Industrial Products
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Put your brand, products, services, and people in front of:
- Newcomers – families, retirees, and young professionals alike, all receive relocation packets throughout the year
- Visitors - magazines are distributed at the Chamber, City of Aiken Visitors Center, Aiken County Visitors Center, South Carolina Visitors Center
- Foodies & Weekend Warriors
- Developers, Builders, Investors
- Current Aikenites & Prospective Aikenites
- Realtors
- Recruiters & Hiring Managers
- Event Coordinators
- Equestrians
- All Aiken Chamber members
Our distribution channels reach far and wide…our full-page advertisers also receive the added benefit of digital and social media reach at no additional cost.
Now that’s value.
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SHOP AIKEN to purchase computers, clothes, school supplies, and a variety of other items free of Sales Tax during South Carolina's annual 72-hour Sales Tax Holiday. The 2023 Tax Free Weekend, also known as the Sales Tax Holiday, takes place Friday, August 4, through Sunday, August 6.
South Carolina Tax Free Weekend is a great way for shoppers to save money, and it's also a great way to demonstrate our support of our local, as well as state-wide businesses.
Tax-free items include computers, printers, school supplies, clothing and accessories, footwear, and certain bed and bath items. These tax-free items can be new or used and are eligible regardless of price. During the annual Tax Free Weekend a variety of purchases are exempt from the state's 6% Sales Tax and any applicable local taxes. As long as an item is eligible, it is tax-free whether purchased in-store or online.
Items that are not tax-free during the Sales Tax Holiday include digital cameras, smartphones, jewelry, cosmetics, eyewear, wallets, watches, furniture, rental clothing or footwear, and items for use in a trade or business.
Last year, South Carolina shoppers purchased more than $26.2 million in tax-free items during Tax Free Weekend. That translates to more than $1.5 million dollars in savings.
Information for Retailers
- All retailers who sell eligible items participate in the Sales Tax Holiday and may not collect Sales Tax from their customers on eligible purchases.
- A retailer toolkit with social media graphics, posts, and FAQs is available at dor.sc.gov/retailer-toolkit.
- Sales of eligible tax-free items during the Sales Tax Holiday should be reported and taken as a deduction on a retailer's August Sales Tax return. Retailers can file and pay Sales Tax and manage all of their South Carolina tax accounts online using the free tax portal, MyDORWAY at https://dor.sc.gov/mydorway.
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Chamber calls for board nominations
Nominations are now being accepted from the Aiken Chamber membership for the organization’s 2024 board of directors. Six board seats each with a three-year term are open. Candidates who are members in good standing and who agree to fulfill the duties of a director will be considered.
Please submit your nomination in writing to the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 892, Aiken, SC 29802. A letter of recommendation stating why you feel the candidate is qualified should be included in the nomination. Self-nominations are allowed. Qualifications of an ideal candidate are:
- Forward thinker
- Committed to the business community
- Actively involved in the Chamber
The deadline for nominations is August 15. The nominating committee will present its slate of candidates to the board of directors at its September board meeting.
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A ribbon cutting was held June 27 at SOB Bagel & Delicatessen to celebrate its official grand opening at 106 Park Avenue SW. Yvette Gallacchi – co-owner, is cutting the ribbon along with Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson, staff, and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. SOB Bagel & Delicatessen offers bagels “Straight Outta Brooklyn”, along with fresh meats, cookies, pies, and much more. Stop by 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wed. – Fri. and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the weekend. SOB Bagel & Delicatessen offers outdoor seating and take-out only. Quick, easy and delicious. www.sobbagel.com
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On June 29 the Aiken Chamber helped Aiken Transport Express, LLC celebrate the grand opening of its new office space at 900 Trail Ridge Rd. Owner Jan Friday is shown cutting the ribbon with Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson and North Augusta Chamber President/CEO Terra Carroll. They are joined by members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team, staff, family, and friends. Aiken Transport offers black tie, big city service with small town charm. Call (803) 448-4423 to learn about their services or to schedule transportation for your next special occasion, date night or airport transfer. To view a full range of services, visit www.aikentransportexpress.com.
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Maria Cardona Therapeutic Massage, LLC cut the ribbon July 11 on its new massage therapy and treatment center at 113 Laurens Street SW Suite 107. Maria Cardona, owner and massage therapist cut the ribbon with massage therapist Don Herrin, medical esthetician Alicia Brigode and Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson. They are joined by members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team, clients, family, and friends. To book your appointment today call (803) 844-0180 or visit www.mariacardonatherapeuticmassage.com.
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NOLA Coffee held a ribbon cutting on July 14 to celebrate the addition of its new drive through window. Cutting the ribbon are owners Mallory and Jake Adkison along with Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Customers can now order ahead and conveniently pick it up without getting out of the car. NOLA Coffee features French roast cold brew and New Orleans favorites like beignets, along with bagels, muffins, regular brewed coffee, frozen coffee, hot tea, iced tea and hot chocolate for kids and kids at heart. NOLA Coffee is located at 2555 Jefferson Davis Highway in the Food Lion shopping center near Aiken Technical College. https://www.drinknolacoffee.com/ Open Mon., Tue., Thu., Fri. 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., Wed. 7 a.m. - noon, Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Sun.
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Mia Mora Children’s Boutique & Consignment held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate its grand opening on July 17. Cutting the ribbon is owner Sarah Richards and Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson. They are joined by members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team, family, and friends. Mia Mora is conveniently located at 1864 Huntsman Drive and is open Tue. – Fri. from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sat. from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mia Mora offers a wide variety children's clothes, with their girls sizes ranging from infant to 8-10 and boys options starting at infant to 6-7, and their consignment selection ranges from infant to juniors. Find Mia Mora Children’s Boutique & Consignment on Facebook or call (803) 645-9711.
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Hurricane Builders held a ribbon cutting on July 21 to celebrate the groundbreaking of their newest development Portrait Hills, conveniently located just 5 minutes from downtown Aiken, off Edgefield Highway on Tanbark Lane. Cutting the ribbon is Hurricane Builders CEO, Patrick Bukszar along with Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson. They are joined by the Great Southern Homes team, and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. To learn more about the Portrait Hills community, visit https://hurricanebuilders.com/communities/undefined/undefined/portrait-hills.
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Leadership Aiken County Inc. held a ribbon cutting on July 24 to help unveil Aiken’s newest iconic painted horse, which they recently had commissioned and gifted to the City of Aiken. You can check out the newest statue located in the parkway on Chesterfield St. between the City of Aiken municipal building and the Aiken Chamber of Commerce. Cutting the ribbon is current Leadership Aiken County Inc. President Sam Radford, with Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson, City of Aiken Mayor Rick Osbon, Councilwoman Gail Diggs, Councilwoman Kay Brohl, and City of Aiken Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh. They are joined by alumni and board members of Leadership Aiken County Inc. and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team . To learn more about Leadership Aiken County Inc. visit www.leadershipaikencounty.com.
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The Frequency Bar held a ribbon cutting on July 24 to celebrate their grand opening. Cutting the ribbon are owners Anthony and Elizabeth Ferraiuolo with Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson. They are joined by members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. The Frequency Bar, Aiken’s own Energy Enhancement System, is located adjacent to the beautiful Houndslake Country Club at 920 Houndslake Dr. They offer a peaceful space for members to relax, quiet their minds or meditate. To book a session, call (803) 226-0787, or visit their website www.thefrequencybar-sc.com.
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Absolute Storage of Aiken – Storage Buildings
Climate controlled storage facility with drive up access and security.
1504 Silver Bluff Road
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Tina Painter
Phone: (803) 884-2345
Aiken Rescue, Inc. – Ambulance Service
Assisting our community for over 50 years. We are a part of Aiken’s 911 system while also providing general transport. We look forward to another 50 years of growth and development.
631 Kershaw Street, NE
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Matt Meuse
Phone: (803) 770-8990
Flawless Glow Cosmetics Studio – Health & Beauty
A mother/daughter owned luxury boutique, offering a carefully curated selection of high-quality skincare, body care, hair care, and spa treatments, as well as stylish accessories to enhance your self-care experience.
106 Laurens Street, SW
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Jeannette Moseley
Phone: (803) 226-9060
Maria Cardona Therapeutic Massage – Health & Wellness
We are a small spa located in downtown Aiken. Join us for a facial or massage to relax and unwind.
113 Laurens Street, SW
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Maria Cardona
Phone: (803) 844-0180
Mia Mora Children’s Boutique & Consignment – Apparel (Childrens)
We have the cutest children’s boutique clothing at affordable prices. Consignment for children’s gently used items.
1864 Huntsman Drive
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Sarah Richards
Phone: (803) 645-9711
Palmetto Shed Company – Aiken SC – Sheds
We sell high-quality, portable storage buildings with a long list of features for a great price. Call or stop by! Rent to own, no credit checks!
1450 Richland Avenue, E
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Sherry Mason
Phone: (833) 469-2276
Sandler Training by SML Business Solutions Inc. – Business Support Services/Consulting
Sandler is a worldwide leader in Sales, Management and Leadership training. Offering business consulting and training that is revolutionizing the Modern Sales experience.
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: John Michielini
Phone: (803) 229-6163
Southern Pickleball Academy – Sports & Recreation
A formal public charity dedicated to the growth of pickleball by investing in our students, communities, and municipalities while fostering the valuable life skills of integrity, fair play, character, honesty, strategy, patience, and sportsmanship.
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Benjamin Lacy
Phone: (803) 221-8869
Storage Sense-Aiken – Storage Buildings
We at Storage Sense want to promote the upmost customer service in the area; we strive to help you and your family the best we can. We believe in communication, commitment, and gratitude. So please come visit us so we can show you our great service and get you what you need.
1387 E. Pine Log Road
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Alicia Jackson
Phone: (803) 644-9000
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Learn from the experts with SCORE’s small business training workshops
SCORE Greater Aiken hosts small business workshops -- both online webinars and live, in-person. Find everything you need to know to start a business or discover tools that will help your small business grow. Browse our workshops here.
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Food, music, theatre, equine activities and even drag racing are just the beginning when it comes to things to do in Aiken.
Sponsored by A.B. Beverage Company, the Aiken Chamber Weekend Rundown is a once-a-week email highlighting the many happenings in Aiken.
Join the email list here, stay in the know, and get connected to your community. |
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