M

By Anne Fulcher Little Carly Michelle Prosser was welcomed into the world on January 12, 2012. Her parents, Amy and Terry Prosser, and big sister Ansley were so happy to have baby Carly in their sweet family. But at five months of age, Carly was diagnosed with a condition called Cortical Blindness: an earth shattering shock to the loving parents. The Prossers and all of their loved ones were devastated upon getting this diagnosis but knew things would be fine regardless. With their strong faith in God and the support of their loved ones and friends,

idland Valley onthly

CEO Carolyn Emanuel-McClain looking at plans for the new Aiken facility. - Photo by Anne Fulcher

Help For Carly

Ansley, Terry, Amy and Carly Prosser. - Submitted Photo

Rural Health Services, Inc. Plans Expansion

By Anne Fulcher As the Rural Health Services, Inc. reached out to the community during National Community Health Center week, CEO Carolyn Emanuel-McClain was excited to see the much needed, almost completed, expansion for her organization. The Margaret J. Weston facility in Clearwater, South Carolina, is expanding by adding ten new patient exam rooms, a new ultrasound machine, and a special waiting continued to page 8

Amy and Terry knew they would do all they could for their new baby girl while maintaining a sense of normalcy for older daughter Ansley. Amy, a graduate of Midland Valley High School and Terry, North Augusta High School have deep family roots planted in the Midland Valley area. They have seen the community rally around them holding multiple fund raising events to assist in the cost of taking Carly to Boston Childrens Hospital in November. Medical expenses are astronomical and even with insurance, there will be many costs not covered. The Prosser family feels truly blessed

to have so much help offered to them from the community. Boston Childrens Hospital is the number one childrens hospital in the nation dealing with Cortical Blindness. When Carly gets to the hospital they will do extensive tests to see if they can find the cause of Carls type of blindness. Hopefully, Boston Childrens Hospital will also find a cure. There will be a charity golf tournament held at Houndslake Country Club on October 20, 2012, a chicken dinner sale at Hollow Creek Baptist Church on September 14th, and an Elvis concert by Jason Sikes to be held at continued to page 8

PAGE 2

Midland Valley Monthly

SEPTEMBER 2012
Scenario: Under the alternative fiscal scenario, federal lawmakers later this year extend existing tax cuts with no significant reduction in spending. In doing so, the CBO predicts that deficits will be much larger and debt will climb to nearly 90 percent of GDP by 2022. Real GDP would be higher in the first few years of the projection period than in CBOs baseline economic forecast, and the unemployment rate would be lower. However, the persistence of large budget deficits and rapidly escalating federal debt would hinder national saving and investment, thus reducing GDP and income relative to the levels that would occur with smaller deficits. In the later part of the projection period, the economy would grow more slowly than in CBOs baseline, and interest rates would be higher. Ultimately, the policies assumed in the alternative fiscal scenario would lead to a level of federal debt that would be unsustainable from both a budgetary and an economic perspective. CBo Directors Comments: At the press conference to announce the above, CBO Director --Elmendorf says that taxpayers will have to either pay significantly more in taxes or accept less in the way of government services, as current deficits are unsustainable. He also urged federal lawmakers to find a way to get the governments long-term debt problems under control noting the current economic issues facing countries in Europe. He said their experiences demonstrate that waiting to make decisions until action is forced ends badly. impact on South Carolina: In view of the above, it is critically important for our state to be prepared for budget cuts in terms of money coming from the Federal Government and for significant continued to page 12

Keeping You Informed

Since my last column last month, a lot has happened in our district. I hope that you find this update for the month of August helpful. Best Wishes for the New School Year!: Thousands of students and teachers across our district started school this past month. While most schools may have been closed this summer, our teachers were working toward the new school year with passion, dedication, and concern for our students. I suspect most everyone reading this column can think of the teachers who made a difference in their lives somewhere along the way. Good, caring teachers and an emphasis on the basics are critical to the future of our state and our nation. NatioNal DeBt Federal Government Debt (the National Debt): As I talk with people from around the district, many people know that the federal government has significant debt. However, most people do not appreciate the magnitude of that debt or what it means to all of us. Therefore, much of this update will provide information on this most important topic. How Much is the Federal Governments Debt?: Currently, the Federal Governments debt is $16 trillion. This is an astounding sum of money. It is increasing at a rate of $3.8 Billion a day. To put it in perspective, it would pay the rent for every renter in the

by SC Rep. Tom Young, R-District 81

United States for 45 years or it would pay the mortgage of every homeowner in the country for the next 17.5 years. The 2011 deficit of $1.3 Trillion was the same size as the entire federal budget in 1996. According to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Our national debt is the greatest threat to our nations long term security. To see the debt clock, go here: http:// www.usdebtclock.org/. Current Federal Spending: In fiscal year 2011, the federal government spent $3.6 trillion, amounting to 24 percent of the nations Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Of that $3.6 trillion, $2.2 trillion was financed by federal tax revenues, and $83 billion by excess profits on assets held by the Federal Reserve. The remaining $1.3 trillion was financed by borrowing; this deficit will ultimately be paid for by future taxpayers. The areas of spending are as follows: 1. Defense and International Security Assistance -- $718 Billion 20 percent of budget 2. Social Security -- $731 Billion 20 percent of budget 3. Medicare, Medicaid, and Childrens Health Insurance Program -- $769 Billion 21 percent of budget 4. Safety Net Programs (non-health insurance and social security) aid to individuals and families -$466 Billion 13 percent of budget (This includes food stamps, supplemental security income for

elderly or disabled poor, school meals, housing assistance 5. Interest on the National Debt -$230 Billion 6 percent of budget 6. Other $700 Billion 20 percent (This includes providing health care and other benefits to veterans and retirement benefits to retired federal employees, Food and Drug Administration, Environmental Protection Agency, Federal Department of Education, scientific and medical research, and basic infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and airports). Congressional Budget office (CBo) Report: Last month, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released its annual report on the federal budget and its corresponding economic forecast. The report provides data on two scenarios: (1) the CBO baseline projection based on current law with tax increases and spending cuts currently planned for January 2013 and (2) the CBO alternative fiscal scenario based on whether lawmakers allow current policies on taxes and spending to remain in effect. My summary is below. To see the full report, go here: http://www.cbo. gov/publication/43539. CBo Baseline Projection: Under the baseline projection, changes in taxes and spending are scheduled to take place in January 2013. If those changes come to pass, they will boost tax revenues and cut spending, yielding a deficit in 2013 almost $500 billion less than the $1.1 trillion shortfall projected for 2012. In addition, unemployment will increase. In CBOs judgment, the sharp increases in federal taxes and reductions in federal spending that, under current law, are scheduled to begin in calendar year 2013 are likely to interrupt the recent economic progress resulting in what will probably be considered a recession in 2013. CBo alternative Fiscal

The Midland Valley Monthly is a free publication provided by the Aiken Standard newspaper. DISTRIBUTION: Around 3800 copies of this section will be distributed each month on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. The section will publish inside the Aiken Standard to subscribers in Midland Valley zip codes of 29816 Bath, 29822 Clearwater, 29828 Gloverville, 29829 Graniteville, 29834 Langley, and 29851 Warrenville. Plus copies will also be distributed at strategic rack locations in these areas as well. MAILING ADDRESS: Midland Valley Monthly, c/o Julie Lott, P.O. Box 456, Aiken, SC 29802. SUBMISSION OF ARTICLES OR PICTURES: jlott@aikenstandard.com or the above mailing address. UPCOMING DEADLINE: September 28, 2012. NEXT PUBLICATION: October 10, 2012.

SEPTEMBER 2012

Midland Valley Monthly

PAGE 3

Wm. Sammie Napier Funeral Director

Glenda K. Napier Vice President

Over 40 Years Of Continuous Professional Service By Wm. Sammie Napier 315 Main Street Graniteville, SC 29829 803-663-3131

AS27-670783

PAGE 4

Midland Valley Monthly

SEPTEMBER 2012

PORTRAIT OF THE PAST

Midland Valley Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their monthly meeting on Wednesday, September 12th at Bobbys Bar-B-Q. The meeting will start at Noon. September 14 - 15, 2012 Midland Valley Area Celebrity Golf Tournament. The Midland Valley High School Class of 1982 will be holding its 30th Class Reunion on Saturday, September 29, 2012 at Houndslake Country Club in Aiken, SC. For more information and to purchase a ticket, please contact Darlene C. Williams at 803-5935180 or visit our facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/groups/ MVHSClassof1982/ October 13, 2012 - 2012 Walk to End Alzheimers at Odell Weeks. Registration at 8:30 a.m. and the walk starts at 9:00 a.m. The Midland Valley Lions Club meets on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month. Coming in October... October will be our Breast Cancer Awareness section. Please submit stories to jlott@aikenstandard.com for consideration of publication. Deadline for stories/advertisement CHEERLEADING CAMP - Former USC cheerleader Pam Beasley leads her class of students at the Gregg Park Civic Center in August 1989. She teaches the youngsters is September 28th.
how to lead cheers for their team. - Aiken Standard archived photo

ENGAGEMENT Mr. and Mrs. Dale Lamb of Clearwater and David Durden of Clearwater announce the engagement of their daughter, Lauren Nichole Durden of Aiken, to Benjamin Michael Hanna of Aiken, son of Mr. and Mrs. Allan Morgan of Aiken and of Mr. and Mrs. Chip Hanna of Summerville. The wedding is planned for Oct. 6, 2012, at Christian Heritage Church in Graniteville. The bride-elect is the maternal granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Gunnells of Clearwater and the late Laney H. Bennefield, and the paternal granddaughter of Judy Durden of Langley and the late Homer L. Durden. The bridegroom-elect is the maternal grandson of Norma Hill of Aiken and the late Carl Langley, and the paternal grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Hanna of New Ellenton.

WEDDING Shawanna Moss and Tory Thalley exchanged wedding vows on Aug. 18, 2012, at Faith Seed Harvest Ministry in Aiken. Apostle Glenn Bates officiated at the noon ceremony. The bride is the daughter of Collin and Margie Moss of Clearwater. The groom is the son of Angela Bates and Glen Bates, both of Beech Island. BIRTH IVEY ROSE LAUBE was born to Trey and Jeannie Laube of Belvedere, on April 15, 2012, at University Hospital. Maternal grandparents are Carey and Sue Hatfield of Montgomery, Ala. Paternal grandparents are Robert and Jayne Laube of North Augusta. Ivey was welcomed home by her big sisters, Gladdie, 6; Helen, 5; and Sarah, 3.

Vaucluse Post Office. - Photo by Julie Lott

SEPTEMBER 2012

Midland Valley Monthly

PAGE 5

PAGE 6

Midland Valley Monthly

shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. Psa 91:9 Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; Psa 91:10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. Psa 91:11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. Psa 91:12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. Psa 91:13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. Psa 91:14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. Psa 91:15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. Psa 91:16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation. As I began to study for this message I found a quote from one of the theologians that said that in the original language verse 1 actually says, He that chooses to dwell in the secret place of The Most High Chooses. Chooses. To activate this emergency number we have to choose to live our lives in the secret place of The Most High Choose. When we make this choice we find that we have 1. Shelter, 2. Security, 3. Refuge, 4. Comfort, and 5. A secret Place. All of these things are important to us especially if we are lonely, afraid, under attack, or threatened.

SEPTEMBER 2012

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY CALL 911 ~ THEN PRESS 2

By Pastor Lynn Kirkland For years I have stood before audiences and professed that as believers we dont have to worry about getting Gods answering machine Hes always up He will always answer. I even professed to have His number! To the point that I said I have Him on speed dial. His number is Jeremiah 33:3. In verses 2 and 3 it says, The LORD, who made the earth, who formed it and set it in place, spoke to me. He whose name is the LORD said, Call to me, and I will answer you; I will tell you wonderful and marvelous things that you know nothing about. But what about those times that you feel lonely, or afraid, under attack, or threatened. And you need an answer right now. Well, I just found out that God is wa-aa-y ahead of us and has already installed an emergency number!

God, in all of His wisdom put all of His protection promise together in one place and made a covenant with us if we will only do two things when we use this number: 1. Choose and 2. Say. Before we go any further lets take a look at Psalm 91, Key vss. 1 & 2: Psa 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. Psa 91:2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Psa 91:3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. Psa 91:4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Psa 91:5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Psa 91:6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. Psa 91:7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. Psa 91:8 Only with thine eyes

In verse 2 it tells us to say. Say what? Gods Word of course! Specifically the words of verse 2. Many times we meditate on scripture in times of need. This is chicken talk for say it in your head instead of speaking it out loud. You see there is purpose for all of this. The demons that are really the source of your attack no matter what your situation is cannot read your mind. They can see your body language and tell if you are worried, fearful, embarrassed, etc. When you say (out loud), [The Lord] is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. The demons flee! You are staking out your ground in Christ Jesus. You are reminding them that you belong to Him. So then, when you choose to live in the secret place of The Almighty and Speak His Word aloud you call forth the covenant of protection continued to page 7

SEPTEMBER 2012

Midland Valley Monthly

PAGE 7

RELIGIOUS BRIEFS
Warrenville Revival Center hosts Shake Yourself Loose 2012 Womens Revival Sept. 14 and 15 at 7 p.m. Pastor Terrie Cutter will be the featured speaker. For information call Sandy Widener, (803) 640-2262; Renee Perkins, (803) 507-1697; email wrclm@bellsouth. net. New Life Outreach Ministries, 616 Edgefield Road, Suite 100, Belvedere, will hold a Womens and Mens Program on Sunday, Sept. 16, at 5 p.m. Participants are asked to dress in black and white. The special guests will be the Rev. Benny Williams and Minister Ethel Woodward. For more information, call 278-5043 or 645-6621. Kingdom Life Worship Center, 42 Aiken Blvd., Warrenville, will host a Deliverance and Healing Service at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 22, with Prophet Raymond Varnadoe of Walterboro. Young Storm Branch Baptist Church will hold an intercessory prayer class beginning on Monday, Sept. 24, at 7 p.m. or Thursday, Sept. 27, at 7 p.m. It is a six-week program. For more information, call Hope Spires at 646-9506. New Life Outreach Ministries, 616 Edgefield Road, Suite 100, Belvedere, will have three nights of revival services starting Sept. 26 through 28 at 7 p.m. nightly. The special guests will be the Rev. Louise Lowman, Apostle Sandy Brooks and the Rev. Meyers. For more information, call 645-6621. The St. John Food Bank will be open on the third and fourth Saturday of the month from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at St. John Baptist Church, 286 Huber Clay Road, Langley. For more information, call 593-4186. Young Storm Branch Baptist Church, Langley, provides a clothes closet for anyone in need. For more information, call Dorothy Young at (706) 399-8117. The Clothes Closet at St. Pauls Episcopal Church, 117 Hard St., Graniteville, is open from 10 a.m. to noon every Saturday. Clothes are free. For more information, call Ann Mayer at 663-7440. Driven by the Spirit Motorcycle Ministry meets at the Midland Valley Community Church on Sundays at 9 a.m., and biker Bible study is held Sunday at 6 p.m. Fellowship is every second and fourth Friday. For more information, call Wayne Cheselka at (706) 373-1380 or email wcheselka@comcast.net.
Send your church announcement to jlott@aikenstandard.com or mail to Midland Valley Monthly, c/o Julie Lott, P.O. Box 456, Aiken, SC 29802.

Hope In The Valley

Hope Ministries of the Valley, Inc. will be sponsoring their 7th Annual Gospel Sing Benefit on Saturday, September 29, 2012 from 4-6pm. The event will be held at 206 Moore Road, North Augusta (Moore road runs off of Sweetwater Road). The featured groups this year are CHRISTIAN HARMONY and THE BRAZELLS. There is no charge for the event however each person must bring at least one bag of canned goods or non-perishables to get into the concert. The goods will be accepted continued from page 6 that is promised in Psalm 91: 2-16. All of the promises of shelter, security, refuge, and comfort are then yours. God has promised! Join us on Wednesdays at 6 PM for Jammin for Jesus and 7 PM for Worship @ The Hippodrome, North Augusta, SC. Also, check our fall schedule on our website to see when we are having Sunday services at the gate entrance. There will also be an opportunity for each one to give in an offering, that will help stock the homeless shelves of Hope Ministries of the Valley, Inc. It is an outside event; therefore people are asked to bring their lawn/sports chairs, dress comfortably and be prepared to enjoy good Gospel singing! For more information please contact George Webb @ 803-270-4432. Every donation will help feed the homeless during the next year.

(www.COWBOY-CHURCH.blogspot.com). For prayer or to support this ministry contact us: Dr. Lynn Kirkland EVANGELIST / REVIVALIST Impact Ministries International, Inc. COWBOY CHURCH P.O. Box 5431, Aiken, SC 29804 OFFICE PHONE: 803-400-3609 http://www.ImpactMinistriesInt.org Sign up to recieve our monthly E~NEWS: www.tinyurl.com/4enews

PAGE 8

Midland Valley Monthly

SEPTEMBER 2012

Having A Splash At V.U.M.C.

By Julie Lott Vaucluse United Methodist Church had great success at their 6th Annual Summer Splash on Saturday, August 18, 2012. It is estimated that over 280 visitors and 45 volunteers enjoyed a pleasant day sharing food, fun and fellowship. Live music was provided by Boogie By Bogey, the Gideons provided 170 New Testament Bibles and school supplies were handed out. Due to the generosity of church members, volunteers, friends and sponsors the Summer Splash has remained free since its conception in 2007.
Two of the four inflatables slides at Summer Splash. - Photos by Julie Lott

Ms Carolyn Emanuel-McClain at the new entrance addition to the Margaret J. Weston facility. - Photo by Anne Fulcher

continued from page 1 room for sick children. This expansion is to be completed by mid-September. Currently, Rural Health Services, Inc. has ten providers to include seven physicians, two nurse practitioners, and one nurse midwife. The health center offers medical services to anyone in the community and fees are based on a sliding scale by income and family size. EmanuelMcClain wants everyone to know that they offer services that include adult medicine, OB/GYN, family practice, pediatrics, and behavioral health. The Weston family built the Margaret J. Weston Health Center continued from page 1 Horse Creek Banquet Hall next to Bobbys BBQ on October 13, 2012. In addition to all of these events, T-shirts, bracelets, and car decals are being sold to help offset medical expenses due to Carlys treatment. On Facebook, search Fund Raiser for Carly Michelle Prosser to see all of the upcoming events. For more information on events to raise funds for Carly Michelle Prosser call 803646-8001. Anne Fulcher can be reached at ernieace2@yahoo.com.

in 1980, in order to provide health care for anyone in the community. With Mrs. Margaret J. Westons spirit in mind, Ms. EmanuelMcClain is thrilled with the upcoming ground breaking of a new, additional facility that will be located in Aiken. The new, two story facility will be 24,000 square feet that offer all health and dental services and will double the current staff size. This new center will offer even more quality services than the Clearwater center, which will include a full service pharmacy and diagnostic services. Call Rural Health Services, Inc. today to make an appointment by calling 803-593-9283.

From the young in body to the young at heart Se habl espaol

ALL AGES

GRANITEVILLE FAMILY
Only 5 Minutes from Aiken Regional

663-9224
AS27-670760

MEDICAL CENTER

Mae Jean Englee, M.D.

1 Hickman Street Graniteville

ACCEPTING MOST INSURANCES

SEPTEMBER 2012

Midland Valley Monthly

PAGE 9

Graniteville Lutheran Youth Attend New Orleans Convention

Submitted article St. James Lutheran youth in Graniteville joined 33,000 Lutheran youth from across the country at the national youth gathering in New Orleans July 18 to 22. The theme of this years convention was Citizens with the Saints. The theme is drawn from Ephesians 2:14-20 which states that Jesus is our peace. The youth and their adult chaperones gathered to learn to love like Jesus by practicing discipleship through peacemaking that works for justice. Each day was a different topic. Each night, the youth gathered at the New Orleans Superdome renamed the Lutherdome for the gathering to hear guest speakers. On Practice Discipleship day, the youth practiced articulating their unique witness by claiming and valuing their baptismal identity, talking about the grace that Jesus offers, allowing themselves to wrestle with questions of faith and demonstrating openness to the movement of the spirit in their life. On this day, they gathered with approximately 800 other youth from South Carolina for worship service. Music for the service was provided by LifeSong, a band from St. James consisting of youth and adults. On Practice Peacemaking day, they learned to recognize when they hold the power in relationships with people who are marginalized, and to freely give that power away, to take a back seat comfortably (i.e., deny self, to reach a point where their self is no longer the most important thing in the world), listen before speaking and work toward reconciliation in Christ in all relationships. On Practice Justice day, the youth learned that daily choices

Pictured are the St. James Lutheran youth, who attended a convention with Lutherans from all over the country. - Submitted Photo

make a difference that benefit the thriving of all of Gods creation, differentiating between accompaniment and charity, and calling them to reflect a posture of accompaniment in their daily lives with others, and learning that it is Jesus who makes us able, not our

efforts. The final day, Sunday, consisted of a worship service at the Lutherdome with all 33,309 youth. This was a full Lutheran service with communion. It was a service that the youth will carry with them the rest of their lives.

There are NINE things different in the picture. Can you locate the differences?

Can You Spot The Differences?

KIDS PAGE

History of National Grandparents Day

From Wikipedia Marian McQuade of Oak Hill, West Virginia, has been recognized nationally by the United States Senate in particular by Senators Jennings Randolph; and Robert Byrd and by President Jimmy Carter, as the founder of National Grandparents Day. McQuade made it her goal to educate the youth in the community about the important contributions seniors have made throughout history. She also urged the youth to adopt a grandparent, not just for one day a year, but rather for a lifetime. In 1973, Senator Jennings Randolph (D-WV) introduced a resolution to the Senate to make Grandparents Day a national holiday. West Virginias Governor Arch Moore had proclaimed an annual Grandparents Day for the state, at the urging of Marian McQuade. When Senator Randolphs resolution in the U.S. Senate died in committee, Marian McQuade organized supporters and began contacting governors, senators, and congressmen in all fifty states. She urged each state to proclaim their own Grandparents Day. Within three years, she had received Grandparents Day proclamations from forty-three states. She sent copies of the proclamations to Senator Randolph. In February 1977, Senator Randolph, with the concurrence of many other senators, introduced a Joint Resolution to the Senate requesting the President to issue annually a proclamation designating the first Sunday of September after Labor Day of each year as National Grandparents Day. Congress passed the legislation proclaiming the first Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents Day and, on August 3, 1978, then-President Jimmy Carter signed the proclamation. The statute cites the days purpose as: ...to honor grandparents, to give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their childrens children, and to help children become aware of strength, information, and guidance older people can offer.

Unscramble
paap _________________ ynanrg ________________ aann _________________ kogoicn _______________ hisnifg ________________ gflnigo ________________ vilertae _______________ myailf ________________ sserenpt ______________ ornesi ________________ dnraamg ______________ pangard _______________ sguh __________________ eolv __________________ agluh _________________ payl __________________ tsoisre ________________ abystib _______________ rnhoo ________________ answers on page 19

SEPTEMBER 2012

Midland Valley Monthly

PAGE 11

PAGE 12
continued from page 2 constrictions on the ability to borrow money for capital projects. We should have a contingency plan in place for how South Carolinas state government will deal with the challenges presented by problems with the Federal Government associated with the debt. Therefore, in the coming months, I am working with other state elected officials in these areas. I am also urging our elected federal representatives to act and not delay any longer in addressing the debt. State Government Planning for the 2013 Legislative Session: The 2013 legislative session begins on the second Tuesday in January. If elected to the State Senate, I appreciate input from constituents on the critical issues facing our state and area including tax reform; spending reform; K-12 education; the costs of higher education; health care; economic development; job growth; and the underfunded liabilities in our states health insurance program for state retirees. Your input is welcome on any issue important to you. Please email me at TomYoung@schouse.gov or contact me by phone or in person at your convenience. other toPicS of intereSt end of Session town meetings: Like the past two years, I plan to hold end of session town meetings around the district. Based on constituent requests, I will hold those in late September and October. To find out the dates and times, please email me at TomYoung@schouse.gov as they

Midland Valley Monthly

are not finalized as of the date of this publication. GeD classes at christ central: If you know of someone who needs to earn their GED, Christ Central in Aiken offers classes to earn a GED. For more information, call (803) 564-5902, ext. 0. Speaking with Groups around the District: Several local groups have invited me to attend one of their meetings to provide a legislative update. If you have a group that would like for me to come to a meeting, please let me know. report Waste, fraud and abuse in State Government: To report waste, fraud and abuse in state government, you can call: 1-855-SC-FRAUD. facebook: I have a Facebook page for Representative Tom Young. Please like the page to receive updates during the week from me on Facebook. tom Youngs Website: My website can be reached at www. tomyoungforsenate.com. There are links to a variety of constituent services; the status of sponsored bills; and roll call votes. State house tours: Tours are available for the S.C. State House by calling (803) 734-2430. road issues: If you see a road problem, call the SCDOT at 6417665 or Aiken County at 642-1532 to report the problem. If you do not get a prompt response, please let me know at TomYoung@schouse. gov or call me. Please know that I can be reached by telephone (649-0000 or 215-3631); email (TomYoung@ schouse.gov); regular mail (P.O. Box 651, Aiken, SC 29802).

SEPTEMBER 2012

its Spooky to Be hungry

organizations gear up for community food drive
By Stephanie Turner A kick-off for the 20th Its Spooky to Be Hungry was held at Midland Valley Community Church of the Nazarene. It is the largest food drive that Golden Harvest Food Bank hosts, said millie robinson, Golden Harvest Food Bank coordinator for the event. Neighborhoods, churches and businesses all contribute to the event. Several area organizations attended the meeting, including South Meadows Subdivision, Women of Woodside and the Girl Scouts. We are really encouraging people to get their neighborhoods or business involved, she said. The need, the demand is greater than ever. Robinson passed out a calendar, reminders list and a T-shirt order form to everyone who attended. She went over matters such as getting the word out to the community and the photo contest the drive is holding. The contest is where an organization or neighborhood can submit a photo with its Spooky display to Robinson or to the Its Spooky to Hungry Facebook by Oct. 30 for a chance to be in the Golden Harvest Food Bank newsletter. South Carolina community members can donate money and canned food items at participating

Millie Robinson gets herself together before speaking to Aiken organization and community about the Its Spooky to Be Hungry food drive. This will the 20th anniversary of the drive, and Aiken has until Oct. 27 to donate. - Photo by Stephanie Turner

locations until Oct. 27, which happens to also be National Make a Difference Day. All donations made to the food drive will remain in Aiken. We are hoping to grow Aiken, Robinson said. Theres so much potential here. Its a great community. Founded in 1992 by Dr. Evelyn Weil Browne, the drive came to the CSRA in 1995, according to the drives official website. For more information, call Millie Robinson (706) 736-1199, ext. 229, or email mrobinson@ goldenharvest.org. Midland Valley Church of the Nazarene is located at 3526 Jefferson Davis Highway.

SEPTEMBER 2012

Midland Valley Monthly

PAGE 13

Catholic Center Has New Administrator

By Suzanne Stone Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Center has a new leader following the transfer of longtime administrator Sister Mary Jean Doyle of the Daughters of Charity. Doyle has been transferred to a post at Providence Hospital in Washington, D.C., and Sister Catherine Marie Lowe took over as administrator of Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Center on July 13. Lowe has been assigned to Our Lady of the Valley for one year as of Aug. 12. I never expected it. When I was asked to come here, it was to help Sister Mary Jean, she said. When I was told Id be taking over, I had to sit back and say, oh my. Whats this going to mean? Whats it going to entail? Then theres the money; I dont like asking people for money, Im not good at doing that, and thats a big part of this job. Then, too, I know that money comes in from people who know you, and who knows me in the Valley? I havent built those relationships yet in the Valley. In the month since taking the position, Lowe and her new volunteer assistant Harold Bertrand have been evaluating the condition of the Centers facilities, doing autumn repairs and maintenance, and looking at current conditions in Midland Valley to determine if the Center is addressing all of Valley residents needs for assistance. Among the Centers programs are the Benefit Bank, which helps those in need find and apply for assistance programs such as food stamps they may be eligible for; the outreach program, which addresses emergency needs such as shortages on a utility bill or a prescription medication; the GED training classes, offered in the mornings and evenings; and a food pantry. I think the biggest thing Ive been looking at since I arrived, even before I took this position, is the hours in which were open. Were open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon, and were looking at whether maybe we need to change those hours, especially for the Benefit Bank and the food pantry, she said. Even though we have people who are working, they may still need assistance they may be working five days a week but that job might not pay enough to feed a family. So were looking at staying open longer. Lowe joined religious life in 1968, feeling a calling to help people. She spent 25 years with the Sisters of Notre Dame, working with children. She felt a need to focus more on social work, and transferred to the Daughters of Charity, whose programs are better suited to that focus. I like this area. I never dreamt Id be back in the South Im from Birmingham, Ala., but I have not been back to Birmingham since 1968, and all of a sudden I was coming back to the South, Lowe said. When I came down here, everything is so beautiful. One thing that impressed me was the slowness. Im used to being in Chicago, Cincinnati; I spent some time in Milwaukee, and in Chicago everything is go go go! Now, I like the slower pace, and I love that theres less traffic. Lowe emphasized that the Center is entirely dependent on donations and volunteer efforts. Donations of money, food or clothing items are always welcome and can be brought to the church. Those interested in making a donation or volunteering can call the Center at 593-2623 or call Lowe at 292-4409.

Sister Catherine Marie Lowe of the Daughters of Charity has been named the new administrator of Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Center, which maintains several outreach programs, including the Benefit Bank. - Photo by Suzanne Stone

MIDLAND VALLEY MONTHLY IS ONLINE

Go to aikenstandard.com and click on Special Sections

PAGE 14

Midland Valley Monthly

SEPTEMBER 2012

HOME IMPROVEMENT
Prepare Your Home To Withstand Any Weather
The weather these days seems to be more volatile than ever -swinging from record-setting heat waves to deep freezes, seemingly from one day to the next. With the weather more varied and unpredictable, homeowners nationwide have learned lessons from the past year and are taking steps to ensure their houses can efficiently withstand whatever Mother Nature dishes out. Its all about keeping homes sealed tightly, so water and wind cant leak in and tempered air doesnt leak out -- causing heating and cooling bills to rise. Beware of Foundation Cracks Water is the enemy of your homes foundation. A change in moisture content of the soil around your home allows water to put pressure on the foundation, causing cracks and leaks. Dry weather can cause the soil to shrink, while wet periods can cause it to soften. Poor drainage from your roof or improper ground slope around your home can funnel water against the foundation. Make sure gutters are clean and that downspouts extend away from your home. Check that the soil, grass or pavement properly slopes away from your foundation. Insulate Effectively Upgrading a homes insulation is an effective, easy way to increase energy efficiency while decreasing heating costs. The attic is a great start, but to achieve maximum efficiencies, dont overlook areas such as basements and rim joists. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates homeowners could save an average of at least $250 yearly in heating costs by insulating basement walls. And by insulating crawl spaces and rim joists, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates homeowners can save up to 20 percent on energy bills. Opting for stone wool insulation, which is made from a combination of natural basalt rock and recycled slag, may provide greater benefits than traditional fiberglass insulation. Inspect Your Roof Nothing can ruin a home faster than a leaky roof. Once yearly, check for signs of damage, such as sagging, aging, cracking, curling, tears or missing shingles. Pay particular attention to areas obscured by shade or vegetation. Replace shingles that are lifting up or that have rot or heavy moss. Also inspect gutters, vents, overhangs and flashing. Repairs should be made as soon as you see a small problem, before it becomes a larger one.

Dont attempt to climb a roof that is steeply sloped. Instead, turn to a professional roofer or home inspector.

Indoor Air Quality: Protect Your Home From What You Cant See
With so many people now optimizing their living spaces for energy efficiency, the risk for indoor air pollution in homes can actually increase, say experts, as pollutants can get trapped indoors as a result. Clean air inside your home is vital. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), exposure to air pollutants can cause health problems, including respiratory disease, heart disease and cancer. Here are steps you can take to protect your family from these risks: Prevent Many sources of air pollution are preventable. Start by ensuring no one smokes inside, as secondhand smoke contains nicotine, toxic chemicals and carcinogenic agents. Take care of water leaks immediately to prevent mold and mildew from forming around your home. Also, take steps to reduce indoor humidity. The EPA and the Department of Energy are offering tips on how to do so at www. EnergyStar.gov. If your home was built between 1930 and 1950, it was likely insulated with asbestos. Make sure these materials are in good condition, as damaged asbestos could release harmful fibers into your home. Hire a professional to seal, cover or remove damaged material. Emissions from gas stoves can continued to page 15

SEPTEMBER 2012

Midland Valley Monthly

PAGE 15

Aiken Standard And Prestige Appliance Bringing Inaugural Home Show To USCA Convocation Center
Submitted Article The Aiken Standard and Prestige Appliance are proud to announce the inaugural Aiken Home Show coming to the USC Aiken Convocation Center for two full days this October. Friday, October 12 from noon to 7pm and Saturday, October 13 from 10am to 5pm, the Convocation Center will be transformed with exhibitors showcasing the latest in home and garden products and services. Tickets are $5 and remain valid both days of the event. Children 12 years of age and under do not need a ticket. Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased online at www. georgialinatix.com, by phone at 1-866-722-8877, at the USCA Convocation Center Box Office, the Aiken Standard Office and Prestige Appliance on Whiskey Road. The inaugural Aiken Home Show is the place for consumers to experience whats new in remodeling, gardening, decorating, renovation and more. Researching all of the latest materials and products available on the market can be time consuming The Aiken Home Show makes that process easier. Exhibitor categories to be represented at the Aiken 2012 Home Show include: appliances, builders, decks and patios, flooring, home furnishings and accessories, interior design, windows, kitchen and bath products, landscaping, lighting, outdoor furniture, doors, remodeling, window treatments, swimming pools, spas and much more. Those visiting the event on Friday have the opportunity to register to win a backyard makeover valued at $2,500 and on Saturday a kitchen makeover valued at $5,000. Tickets are valid entry for both Friday and Saturday so the public is encouraged to enter for both makeovers. Information on sponsorship opportunities and participation in the event as a vendor is available by contacting: Debbie Price (803-644-2377 dprice@ aikenstandard.com) or Tina Paioni (803-644-2400 tpaioni@ aikenstandard.com)

Pink Ribbon Tea Will Be Held On October 11

The third annual Pink Ribbon Tea will be held at a different venue this year. The event will be held on October 11th at Aiken Technical College at 3:00 p.m. The four sponsors will be USC Aiken, which was where it was held before, Aiken Technical College, Aiken Regional Medical Centers and The Pink Ribbonettes. The event is held during Breast Cancer Awareness month and promotes education, honors the memory of those who have passed on and celebrates the survivors. The community is invited. Entertainment, food and educational information are available for all attendees. continued from page 14 worsen asthma. If anyone in your household suffers from asthma, consider replacing your gas stove with an electric one. Choose safe household cleaners that dont contain harsh chemicals. Organic and non-toxic products can do the same job as traditional products, without irritating your eyes, nose and throat. Ventilate No matter how many steps you take to prevent indoor air pollution, your home is subject to inevitable sources of pollutants. Proper mechanical ventilation is your best defense. Although most consumers are aware of the need for ventilation in areas prone to high-humidity like bathrooms, an entire air-tight home can benefit from eliminating mold, mildew, moisture, volatile organic compounds and other invisible vapors. First, check to see if your ventilation fans are working properly. If the bathroom mirror steams up after a hot shower or bath, it is time to replace or install a ventilation fan. Not only will a combination of intermittent and continuous ventilation keep your family safer from allergens and toxic gases, but it can also save you money by preventing structural damage, ruined fixtures, peeling wallpaper and blistering paint. Sometimes hidden dangers are the most menacing. But you can breathe more easily by preventing and removing pollutants in your home.

MOTIVATING THOUGHT
If you cant make it better, you can laugh at it.
Erma Bombeck (1927-1996)

PAGE 16

Midland Valley Monthly

SEPTEMBER 2012

GREGG PARK CIVIC CENTER

DOG OBEDIENCE CLASSES
Basic Dog Obedience Classes will be taught at Gregg Park Civic Center beginning Sat., Sept. 22nd. Classes will be taught for eight weeks for $75.00 from 10-11:00 with Laura Phillips and Elizabeth Burgess as the Instructors. A lot of one-on-one attention for your special pet! SPCA, Animal Control and Mollys Militia Adopters are offered a discounted rate of $60.00. If handshakes and newspaper retrievals are what youre wanting then heres the class youve been waiting for!! For more information, please call the park at 663-7552. cash this time of the year is a plus. One Mans Junk Is Another Mans Treasure. Come SELL at Gregg Parks Annual Fall Yard SALE. Instead of your Yard, come use our HUGE parking lot. Scheduled to be held on Saturday, October 6th, 2012. The Yard Sale will be held from 8:00 a.m. 12 Noon. Pre-registration required. Limited number of spaces. Register now until Thurs., October 4th (before 6 p.m.) and reserve your space. Well advertise and set your tables up for you$5.00 per table (maximum # of tables per/person is 2). Pay the day of the Sale. To Register call the park at 663-7552.

119 Trolley Line Road, Graniteville 663-7552

CHILDRENS CHRISTMAS PARTY WITH SANTA
Ho, Ho, Ho..Is that Jolly Ole St. Nick I hear? Yes, believe it or not, Fall is in the air and Santa is right around the corner! Dodge the malls and long lines and come visit Santa with us at Gregg Park. Bring the children and their list for Santa to hear and Check it twice. Bring your camera and appetite! Refreshments will be served and a Christmas Craft to take home as well. Our Childrens Christmas Party with Santa will be held on Saturday, Dec. 1st from 10-11:00 a.m. Please, only Children Ages 8 and Under.

FALL YARD SALE

Its time to clean the attic and make some dough! No tellin what youll find and earning extra

HALLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST

Come Scarify and Boo with us this ghostly season on Thursday, October 25th at the Park. Be a part of GPs 1ST INSIDE Halloween

Costume Contest for children ages 9 & Under. Contest will be held in the gym with registration being held from 6-6:30 p.m. and the Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. Our Judges will be looking for the funniest, scariest, and most original costume winners to take home the trophies! Trophies will be awarded to the winners in the following age groups: 3 & Under, 4-6, and 7-9. Goody bags, prizes, and refreshments will guarantee a good time for all. This fun filled evening will offer something special for everyone! For more information, please call the park at 663-7552.

SEPTEMBER 2012

Midland Valley Monthly

PAGE 17

SCHOOL BRIEFS
Newsletter E-vite
The Aiken County School District is providing a new communication tool with current news and notices about our schools. This will be an automatic digital news bulletin received by all who register their email address. Simple: just click and submit email. Go to: http://acps. schoolfusion.us/modules/cms/ pages.phtml?pageid=269509&sessi onid=13b7a9498fa72fe9b67f88e7d2d 80ecd .

SAT Workshop at Midland Valley High School

Get tips, testing strategies, and practice questions for the next SAT October test date. The SAT Workshop will be held on Monday, September 24, all day in the Media Center. The cost will be $35, payable to MVHS in Guidance.

Thank You, Chamber Members

Midland Valley High School would like to thank Ms. Anne Fulcher and Mr. Jeff Jenik, members of the Midland Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, for their generous donations to the schools athletic department. These funds will be used on repairs and for purchase of equipment within the department. The schools faculty and athletes appreciate the support of these chamber members.

Hidden in the pages of this edition is a horseshoe.

Can you find the horseshoe?

PAGE 18

Midland Valley Monthly

SEPTEMBER 2012

SEPTEMBER 2012

Midland Valley Monthly

PAGE 19

2012 Varsity Football Schedule

Date September 14 September 21 *September 28 *October 5 *October 12 *October 19 *October 25 *Region Games Opponent Silver Bluff Baptist Hill Gilbert** Swansea Brookland-Cayce Airport*** Strom Thurmond **Homecoming ***Senior Night Site Home Away Home Home Away Home Away Time 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 Date September 13 Sepember. 20 *September 27 *October 4 *October 11 *October 18 *October 24 *Region Games

2012 JV Football Schedule

Opponent Silver Bluff Saluda Gilbert Swansea Brookland-Cayce Airport Strom Thurmond Site Away Home Away Away Home Away Home Time 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00

2012 Volleyball Schedule

Date September 12 *September 13 *September 18 September 19 *September 20 *September 25 September 26 *September 27 *October 2 October 4 *October 9 October 10 *Region Games Opponent Grovetown** Brookland-Cayce** Airport** Greenbrier** Strom Thurmond** Gilbert** Silver Bluff** Swansea** Brookland-Cayce** Airport** Strom Thurmond** Greenbrier **Varsity/JV Site Midland Valley Brookland-Cayce Midland Valley Midland Valley Strom Thurmond Gilbert Silver Bluff Swansea Midland Valley Airport Midland Valley Greenbrier Matches 1-3/5 1-3/5 1-3/5 1-3/5 1-3/5 1-3/5 1-3/5 1-3/5 1-3/5 1-3/5 1-3/5 1-3/5 Time 6:30 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 6:00 6:30 7:00 7:00 7:00 5:00 Date September 12

2012 JV Volleyball Schedule

Opponent Grovetown** Brookland-Cayce** Airport** Greenbrier** Strom Thurmond** Gilbert** Silver Bluff** Swansea** Brookland-Cayce** Airport** Strom Thurmond** Site Midland Valley Brookland-Cayce Midland Valley Midland Valley Strom Thurmond Gilbert Silver Bluff Swansea Midland Valley Airport Midland Valley Matches 1-3/5 1-2/3 1-2/3 1-3/5 1-2/3 1-2/3 1-2/3 1-2/3 1-2/3 1-2/3 1-2/3 Time 5:00 5:30 5:30 5:00 5:30 5:30 5:00 5:30 5:30 5:30 5:30

*September 13 *September 18 September 19 *September 20 *September 25 September 26 *September 27 *October 2 *October 4 *October 9

*Region Games **Varsity/JV

2012 Girls Golf Schedule

Date September 13 September 17 September 20 September 25 September 27 October 2 October 7-8 October 15 October 22-23 Event Brookland-Cayce, Aiken Lady Thoroughbred Classic Aiken, South Aiken Airport, Brookland-Cayce South Aiken, Aiken Rally for the Cause Golf Tournament Region Tournament AAA Lower State Qualifier AAA State Tournament Site Midland Valley Golf Club Woodside Golf Plantation Houndslake Country Club Charwood CountryClub Woodside Golf Plantation Country Club of Newberry Time 4:30 PM 12:00 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 12:00 PM Date September 13 September 18 September 20 September 25 September 27 October 2 October 4 October 9 October 11 October 15 October 16

2012 Girls Tennis Schedule

Opponent Brookland-Cayce Airport* Strom Thurmond* Gilbert* Swansea* Brookland-Cayce* Airport* Strom Thurmond* Barnwell Aiken Barnwell Site Away Home Away Away Away Home Away Home Home Away Away Time 5:00 5:00 5:00 5:00 5:00 5:00 5:00 5:00 5:00 5:00 5:00

TBA TBA International Club, Murrels Inlet TBA Quail Creek Golf Club TBA

*Home - Gregg Park

2012 Cross Country Schedule

Date September 12 September 15 September 19 September 26 October 3 October 10 October 17 September 27 October 3 Event Gilbert Invitational Augusta Prep Invitational Midland Valley Dual Pelion Invitational Gilbert Invitational Lexington High Invitational Region Meet Lower State Qualifier State Meet Site Gilbert High School Augusta Prep Day School Midland Valley Pelion High School Gilbert High School Lexington High School Chapin High School Sandhills Research Park Sandhills Research Park Time 5:00 pm 9:00 am 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm TBA TBA

AnSwerS To KidS PAGe

1. Pink barrette is missing 2. Grandmothers band changed to white 3. Grandfathers glasses are missing 4. Stripes on boys shirt changed to green 5. Pink hair bow is missing papa granny nana cooking fishing golfing relative family presents senior 6. Grandfather has a missing sleeve button 7. Girls hair is shorter 8. Grandmothers earring is missing 9. Purple shoe changed to green

grandma grandpa hugs love laugh

play stories babysit honor

PAGE 20

Midland Valley Monthly

SEPTEMBER 2012