The Thankful Issue N OV E M B E R 2 02 3
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November 2023 PUBLISHER
Gayle Bryan | gayle.bryan@citylifestyle.com
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Not Too Busy To Be Thankful! I am unsure where the days have gone, but November is here, and Thanksgiving is almost upon us. The last few months have been insanely busy, and I have been looking towards November as a time to pause and reflect before we hit full-on holiday madness. I am not sure that is really in the cards for me as there are four University of South Carolina home football games in November, and women’s basketball starts. But, a girl can hope! Just in case, I am taking some time at this moment to ponder what I am most thankful for this year. Aiken is ripe with traditions that make Thanksgiving extra special. Starting the day by observing the annual Blessing of the Hounds, followed by a stroll through Hitchcock Woods with family and friends to the Aiken County Historical Museum for Bloodies and Bagels, is an experience that creates memories that last a lifetime. Our Thankful issue is when we like to highlight organizations and people who prioritize helping others. This year, we get to know David Hixon of Hixon Roofing and some of the behind-the-scenes giving he does to make Aiken a better place to live and work. If you have been around Aiken long, your path has probably crossed Ellie Joos. Whether she is directing the Doxie Derby at Woofstock for FOTAS or ensuring school children are exposed to the world of music through her work with Joye in Aiken, Ellie uses her time and talents to benefit Aiken’s people and pets. Finally, we look at The Community Medical Clinic of Aiken County, a wonderful gift to our town, and the people there who help provide critical medical care to those around us who do not have health insurance. If you are like me and feel more generous as the holidays roll around, these and many other worthy Aiken non-profits would be blessed by any monetary donation or gift of time. That’s about all the time I have to reflect as the deadline for this issue is coming in hot with the December deadline on its heels. See you next month!
G AY L E B R YA N , P U B L I S H E R @AIKENCIT YLIFEST YLE
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Rebecca Williams | rebecca.williams@citylifestyle.com PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
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Ashley Elvis, Nikita Hanif, Shelby Mayer, Gayle Bryan CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S
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Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Aiken City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Aiken area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Aiken City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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inside the issue The Thankful Issue
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F E ATU R E D
D E PA RTM E NTS
18 Discover Kiawah River
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Lifestyle Letter
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City Scene
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Travel Journal T R AV EL
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Must See LI FE + C U LT U R E
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Our Town HO ME S ERV I C ES
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Hometown Hero LI FE + C U LTU R E
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Auto Club AU TO + MA R I NE
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Locals Only LI FE + C U LT U R E
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Events
An Escape to Lowcountry Paradise Is a Short Road Trip Away
34 Serving Aiken
A Woman’s Dedication to Serving Her Community
38 ROC Truck Takes Aiken and Nashville by Storm
Country Music’s Elite Trust Aiken’s ROC Truck for Expert Truck Modifications, Big or Small
44 Thanksgiving in Aiken
Two Traditions That Make Thanksgiving in Aiken Uniquely Memorable
O N T H E C OV E R
Photography: Rebecca Williams, River Magnolia Photography Lee Fulmer with his ROC modified Bronco.
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city scene
Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1
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1: Michelle from Sol Himalayan Salt Cave & Spa at the Holistic Wellness Fair. 2: Falynne Lockhart of Cleansy putting the family to work at the Holistic Wellness Fair. 3: These ladies brought a coastal tradition to Aiken. 4: The new owners of Workout Anytime ready to greet the Aiken Chamber for their ribbon-cutting. 5: Aiken Chamber Ambassadors working out at Workout Anytime. 6: Elizabeth and Anthony, owners of The Frequency Bar, at the Holistic Wellness Fair. 7: Is Workout Anytime owner, Cody Melvin, taking it easy on the Aiken Chamber’s David Jameson? Photography by Gayle Bryan, Rebecca Williams and Patrick Krohn
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C I T Y SC E N E
Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @AikenCityLifestyle
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8: Nothing Bundt Cakes keeping downtown sweet. 9: Chris Goodman- Senior & Junior bringing Goodman Fine Woodworking to Aiken during Aiken’s Makin’. 10: Chris and Holly Goodman at Aiken’s Makin’. New woodworker coming soon! 11: Serving up tasty treats at Aiken’s Makin’. 12: Aiken’s Makin’ is better with friends. 13: ACL Publisher, Gayle Bryan, accepting the Firestarter Award at City Lifestyle’s National Elevate Conference! 14: Printer Man, Gary Sullivan, taking a spin on the treadmill at Workout Anytime. Photography by Gayle Bryan, Rebecca Williams and Patrick Krohn
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Discover Kiawah River An Escape to Lowcountry Paradise Is a Short Road Trip Away ARTICLE BY GAYLE BRYAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GAYLE BRYAN/KEENE EYE MARKETING The drive from Charleston to Kiawah Island is magnificent. I love traveling through the picturesque marshlands and the feeling of being surrounded by the aged live oaks on the approach to the island. Just a few miles before hitting the roundabout that leads to Seabrook Island, Freshfields Village and Kiawah Island, there is an unassuming sign that marks the entrance to Kiawah River. I crossed the threshold to the Kiawah River development for the first time a few years ago with Coastal Expeditions on an excursion they call
Sunrise and Spoonbills. They are my go-to when I want to explore the waterways and forests of the Lowcountry. I was unfamiliar with the Kiawah River but trusted Coastal to show me a good time. On the short drive into the community, I passed fields bursting with colorful wildflowers and crossed over marsh areas teaming with wading birds. Off to the left, I saw produce sprouting up from an area obviously designated for farming. My curiosity peaked long before I saw the beautiful coastal-styled homes with the stunning Kiawah River as their backdrop. CONTINUED >
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“Basking in the sights, the sounds, the wildlife and the spectacular artistry of the Creator is my happy place. Kiawah River is a great place to experience all of it.”
I spent a lovely morning exploring the river by kayak in glorious golden light, followed by a hike through some of the marshland and maritime forests that are part of the 2,000-acre planned community that is Kiawah River. That outing was memorable for many reasons, including my first good look at a roseate spoonbill. I was rewarded with one of my favorite pictures of all time: a painted bunting in the spartina grass at dawn. Kiawah River has been on my radar ever since that first visit. My love of the Lowcountry (and my niece and great-niece) finds me in the Charleston area regularly, and when close, I take the turn into Kiawah River to see if I can spot a roseate spoonbill and to see how the development is progressing. The recent addition of 11 bungalows available for short-term rental caught my attention. It is only a twoand-a-half-hour drive from here, so I suspected they might be a perfect getaway for Aiken residents. The folks at Kiawah River graciously arranged a behind-the-scenes visit for me. Sadly, my husband could not escape, but a friend was happy to be my wingman on this adventure. We spent two nights in The Spoonbill. The Bungalows were designed by Julia Starr Sanford of Starr Sanford
Design who is known for influencing the Alys Beach community in the Florida Panhandle. Amanda Lindroth furnished the interiors in a way that I can only describe as cozy elegance. I was delighted to receive a call from my pal, Tayt Stafford, who runs the Coastal Expeditions outpost at Kiawah River the day before the trip. He had been asked to take us out on a bit of hiking and kayaking tour. Stafford knows the tides, the behavior of the wildlife and pretty much anything else you might want to know about the ecosystems that make up the Kiawah River community, so when he suggested that the time was right to catch the roseate spoonbills, we quickly followed. Stafford delivered, and after a short walk, we observed about 30 spoonbills in action. Next up was a kayak tour. Tayt did a fantastic job making my non-kayaking friend comfortable and showed us both the wonders of the Kiawah River. Basking in the sights, the sounds, the wildlife and the spectacular artistry of the Creator is my happy place. Kiawah River is a great place to experience all of it. On day two, we got a tour of the Spring House. It has a fitness center, event and meeting space, cabanas, a shaded bar and two pools overlooking the water. It has become a central CONTINUED >
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gathering place for residents and guests, which we were able to experience firsthand at the weekly Friday evening happy hour. One hundred acres of the Kiawah River community is a working farm. A big part of what makes Kiawah River such a unique development is the marriage of upscale coastal living with sustainability. Weekly harvests are available to residents and sold in local farmers' markets. We spent some time at The Goatery, part of the Kiawah River Farm. Dawn introduced us to some goats and showed us how they produce their handmade goat cheese and other high-quality goat milk products.
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Several residents mentioned that the dolphins are beginning to strand feed in the river. We didn’t see it there, but we stopped by Beach Walker Park on Kiawah Island (just a few miles away), made the jaunt to Captain Sam’s Spit and were treated to an incredible show! If you haven’t figured it out yet, I love Kiawah River. The Bungalows are perfect for a peaceful getaway or an opportunity to check out the development and the available homesites. Rental information is available from Seewee Properties (seeweeproperties.com).
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The Free Medical Clinic
of Aiken Jasmine Blakely Kean, Executive Coordinator
Serving the Uninsured and Impoverished ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA WILLIAMS AND PROVIDED
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M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE
Celestine Walker, Community Health Worker
Dr. Charles Pexa, Board President of the Free Medical Clinic of Aiken
Katherine Hicks, Pharamacist
In today's world, healthcare is a basic human right. Unfortunately, not everyone has access to healthcare due to financial constraints or lack of health insurance. This is where the Free Medical Clinic of Aiken, a nonprofit organization, comes in. They offer a safety net for those who cannot afford health insurance, ensuring that they receive the care they need to live a healthy life. The clinic has been providing free healthcare in our community since 1998 when it was formed by ACTS (Area Churches Together Serving) and was called ACTS of Caring Clinic. Since then, the clinic has grown and expanded its services and is now under its own direction and overseen by its Board of Directors. The importance of this nonprofit providing free healthcare to people in our area cannot be overstated. According to the South Carolina Institute of Medicine and Public Health, 16.8% of adults in South Carolina are uninsured. In Aiken County, that number is even higher, clocking in
at 19% of adults under the age of 65 being uninsured. Many people without insurance go without medical care because they cannot afford it, which can lead to serious health problems down the line. Orion Jeter, the Executive Director of the clinic, said, “Our approach is holistic, positive, incremental and focused on forward progress. We help people who, for whatever reason, have had challenges interrupt their pursuit of abundant living. We help them holistically put pieces back together; we meet people where they are. When we invest in individuals, we improve families, when family lives are strengthened, entire communities prosper more. Investing in the clinic is investing in people, and that is always a great return on investment.” This clinic provides preventative care, vaccinations and check-ups as well as treatment for illnesses and injuries. They also provide access to prescription medications and medical supplies which can be costly and out of reach for people
without insurance. The clinic's most successful and life-changing program is their R.I.S.E Program which stands for Real Independence and Self-Empowerment. It is available for free to people 18 or older who wish to receive personal and career development assistance necessary to make lasting and positive changes in their lives. Dr. Charles Pexa, a volunteer physician and President of the Board, stated, “What makes the clinic so special are the patients. These are people in the community that only lack help; they’re trying to maintain their health. They are working and trying to create a life and trying to support their families. If we can provide any assistance to these people, the rewards are innumerable and immeasurable for all of us. The thing that will make you proud to support and proud to be a part of the clinic's mission is that if you help one person, you help the entire community, and that’s what we are doing here at the clinic.” CONTINUED >
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Orion Jeter, Erin Jeter & Jasmine Blakely Kean
Erin Jeter, Registered Nurse, with Dorothy Green, volunteer receptionist and our “patient” for the day!
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“THE MEDICAL CARE I RECEIVED SAVED MY LIFE. I AM ABLE TO GO BACK TO WORK. PEOPLE WHO WORK FEEL BETTER ABOUT THEMSELVES AND TAKE BETTER CARE OF THEMSELVES BECAUSE THEY HAVE A PURPOSE IN THEIR LIVES. YOU ARE HELPING PEOPLE AND SAVING LIVES, AND I AM FOREVER GRATEFUL TO EACH ONE OF YOU.”
The free healthcare provided by this nonprofit also has a ripple effect on the community. When people have access to preventative healthcare, they are more likely to stay healthy and less likely to miss work or school due to illness. This leads to a more productive workforce and a better-educated population. It also reduces the strain on emergency rooms, which are often used as a last resort by people who have nowhere else to turn for medical care. One of the most memorable success stories shared by Orion Jeter and Dr. Charles Pexa was a patient who was referred for treatment following a near fatal trip to the hospital. Upon release, an appointment was scheduled at the clinic due to a lack of insurance, diagnosis of multiple comorbidities and need for continued monitoring and medications. The clinic quickly provided free treatment and medications and watched as this survivor completed the R.I.S.E Program. Significant weight loss, increased confidence, readmission into college and a completed nursing degree were just a few of the outcomes achieved from participating in this program. This individual now has a successful full-time nursing position that provides health insurance and personal fulfillment while giving medical care to our community. Another patient that received care from the clinic wrote, “I just wanted to let you know how much you are all appreciated for every little thing you have done for me. I know how busy you are and treating me like I am your only patient is very comforting, knowing you are just a phone call away. I was hit hard
because of COVID. When I lost my job, I was not sure what I was going to do about my medical care. Through your clinic, I was able to see a doctor and get my insulin. The medical care I received saved my life. I am able to go back to work. People who work feel better about themselves and take better care of themselves because they have a purpose in their lives. You are helping people and saving lives, and I am forever grateful to each one of you.” These are just a few of the many people who have been pulled from darkness and hopelessness and found life-altering support through the Free Medical Clinic of Aiken. The Free Medical Clinic of Aiken has also helped reduce healthcare disparities. Many marginalized communities and low-income individuals experience significant barriers to accessing healthcare. The clinic has bridged this gap by providing care that is accessible and culturally responsive. This has improved health outcomes for these communities and reduced health disparities. Last year the clinic provided over $3,264,145 in free medical care, served over 341 patients and dispensed over 13,839 medications. The Free Medical Clinic of Aiken needs monetary donors in order to continue their vital role in our community. If you are interested in becoming a donor, please visit their website at cmcaiken. org. You can sign up online to donate one time or monthly and support their healthcare mission. Your partnership with the clinic could very well be the turning point of lifesaving care for an uninsured individual in Aiken.
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Meet David Hixon An Aiken Business Owner with a Heart for Community and Family
ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA WILLIAMS AND PROVIDED
In the bustling world of business, where profit margins and competition often take center stage, there is a shining example of an individual who prioritizes giving back to his community and fostering a nurturing work environment that is focused on family. David Hixon, the owner of Hixon’s Roofing, has a heart dedicated not only to roofing but also the community he serves and the people he employs. Hixon has carved a unique niche in the roofing industry. His journey into roofing began as a child, watching his father provide dependable roofing services as a supplemental job to support his 30 years in ministry. Hixon grew up and started helping his father with roofing projects and continued working on projects even while away at college. When he returned home to Beech Island, SC after attending college, he
decided to dive into creating a small business and started his own roofing company, Hixon’s Roofing. He was raised to complete each task with dignity and to put customers and their needs first. His business plan and mission were to not only deliver top-notch roofing solutions but to create a positive impact and give back to his community. Hixon was raised from a young age with reverence for the scripture “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” He took this message to heart, and it has become a core value in his business. In the past two years, Hixon has given over $100,000 to multiple churches, charities, non-profits and athletic departments. Most recently, he has supported the Silver Bluff High School Athletics Department and Aiken Chamber of Commerce. His heart to serve has led him to participate and finance multiple CONTINUED >
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mission trips overseas and to remain actively involved in helping financially support homeless outreach in Augusta, GA. Hixon believes in order to operate as a successful leader to his employees, he must lead by example, so it was fitting that his motto for this year was, “2023 – Less about me.” Hixon understands that his success is intertwined with the community’s well-being, and he’s committed to doing his part to ensure that it thrives. In addition to his community efforts, Hixon is equally dedicated to fostering a family-like work environment within his company. In an industry known for its physical demands and challenging conditions, Hixon believes that a supportive workplace is essential for employee morale and productivity. The company today is largely staffed by family members and close friends. One of the reasons their close-knit work family is so successful is because of his sense of trust and transparency within his business. This atmosphere, driven by Hixon’s set of ethics, creates a support system that extends beyond the workplace, fostering lasting relationships with his employees. One favorite way to show gratitude for his hardworking employees is by hosting a wonderful Christmas party each year where his family gets to shower his employees and their children with Christmas presents. Another employee and family favorite event would be the quarterly low country boil he hosts for his employees, customers and local community members. As Hixon looks to the future, he remains committed to his mission of giving back to the community and continuing to foster a family-like work environment. He envisions expanding his company’s community involvement and reaching even more people in need. His faith, family, friends and customers are all motivating factors to continue to reach new heights and positively impact his community. Hixon’s story is a shining example of how a small business owner can have a profound impact on his community and employees. His dedication to excellence, community involvement and nurturing work environment sets a high standard for others in the industry to follow. His journey is proof that success isn’t measured in dollars and cents but in the positive difference one can make in the lives of others. In the world of roofing, David Hixon stands tall as a beacon of community spirit and workplace compassion.
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Serving Aiken A WOMAN’S DEDICATION TO SERVING HER COMMUNITY
Ellie with famed trumpeter Jumaane Smith.
Don't forget that FOTAS also is in need of cat adoptions! They can also help with cat colonies in communities. Riley Mulherkar instructing a group at Jazz Camp. JOYE in Aiken's Kids Bop
In a world filled with overbooked and hectic schedules, some individuals stand out for their unwavering dedication to positively impacting their communities. Ellie Joos visited Aiken when close friends living in Spartanburg recommended the town to her and her husband. Upon their visit, they were enamored with downtown Aiken, its rich history and horse district. They returned for a second
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ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF
musical abilities. The musicians and artists with Joye in Aiken have impacted over 47,000 kids in our area, and several continue to return year after year to reach the next generation of young musicians. The impact of Joye in Aiken goes beyond music; their commitment to inclusivity is a universal language connecting people of all ages and walks of life who wish to experience world-class art in their hometown. Ellie’s dedication to animal welfare and passion for spreading the gift of music exemplifies the transformative effect of selfless giving and the belief that everyone has the power to make a difference. Her service reminds us that community involvement comes in many forms. Whether volunteering at an animal shelter, mentoring young musicians or supporting a cause that resonates with you, your actions can inspire others and cause a ripple effect of positive change. As we celebrate contributions to our community like Ellie’s and organizations like FOTAS and Joye in Aiken, we are reminded that a stronger, more compassionate community is built upon one act of kindness at a time. Ellie’s hope is that we all will be encouraged to find a way to give back and make our community a better place for all.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA WILLIAMS AND PROVIDED
visit, spent a dazzling New Year’s Eve at the esteemed Willcox Hotel, and knew that Aiken would be their forever home. After working with a local realtor, they found their dream home and moved to Aiken in 2013. Not long after settling, Ellie knew she wanted to find an avenue to serve her new community. Ellie’s love for animals soon led her to volunteer with FOTAS, Friends of the Animal Shelter, located in Aiken. She began spending time walking dogs at the shelter and offering her skills and boundless compassion to furry friends in need. As she continued to volunteer, her roles included helping with pet food drives, fundraising, organizing and working at adoption events and educating on the importance of spaying and neutering pets. Over the years, she has watched their mission grow and expand to its present-day operations. FOTAS has a 90% save rate, and the staff works diligently with foster families to help prepare animals for their permanent homes. Ellie especially loves it when kids come in and read to the dogs at the shelter. This beautiful time between children and their furry companions provides a soothing reprieve for the animals and encourages literacy in local students. Her wish for FOTAS is to see more volunteers helping at the shelter, fostering puppies and kittens, and increasing food and monetary donations to support this mission’s impact. Ellie stayed busy with FOTAS, but a chance meeting at the Aiken Chamber breakfast led to her learning about Joye in Aiken, a nonprofit organization that brings world-class performing artists, musicians, dancers and actors to the community. When Ellie learned about their involvement in local schools to encourage budding young musicians, she knew she wanted to be a part of this musical mission. Ellie found the skills she acquired from her successful career in public relations would be invaluable to her volunteer work with Joye in Aiken. She found herself working as a production assistant, festival volunteer, social media specialist and as a board member and secretary. Her passion for music truly drove her to support this nonprofit, especially as she witnessed firsthand these high-caliber musicians taking time to perform in local schools and help students refine their skills and gain confidence in their
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COUNTRY MUSIC’S ELITE TRUST AIKEN’S ROC TRUCK FOR EXPERT TRUCK MODIFICATIONS, BIG OR SMALL ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ELVIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA WILLIAMS AND PROVIDED
ROC TRUCK TAKES AIKEN AND NASHVILLE
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Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Taylor Phillips, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Hardy, Ernst, Park McCollum and the Duck Dynasty brothers, Willie and Jase Robertson all have a common link to Aiken: Lee Fulmer, owner of ROC Truck. What began as a small business driven by “gearhead” passion to customize trucks has quickly become a very successful, customer-centered company providing professionalism and quality service not only to Aiken area locals but even the famous guys in the country music industry.
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Kameron Marlow and Tyler Farr
Jase Robertson
“ T HER E’ S NO JOB T OO BIG OR T OO S M A L L F OR F UL MER A ND HI S TA L EN T ED S TA F F AT ROC T RUCK .” CONTINUED >
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Fulmer started this journey in vehicle customization when he was just a little kid following his dad around his shop, Southern Off-Road. He then sharpened his skills working at another vehicle customization dealership before deciding to open his own business in 2018, ROC Truck, located on Pine Log Road. Fulmer and his six employees have created a friendly atmosphere with a combined experience of over 70 years to ensure expertise when it comes to outfitting vehicles. Customer service is a top priority at ROC Truck, and Fulmer and his crew make sure to go above and beyond with each job, big or small. Not long after ROC Truck was established, Fulmer saw a post on Instagram made by talented, sought-after country music songwriter, Taylor Phillips, about outfitting his truck. Fulmer took a chance and reached out with a message telling Phillips that he should let him build his truck. There was no response until about six months later when Phillps asked if the offer still stood. And, of course it did! Fulmer customized the truck, and thanks to social media, the rest is history! Since then, Fulmer has built 12 trucks for Phillips and he has created a name for himself and his business among country music artists. Currently, he’s working on a truck for retired MLB player, Adam LaRoche, and filming for an episode of Buck Commander. With the majority of car sales the last few years being SUVs and trucks, there is definitely a need for a vehicle accessory business like ROC Truck. Although Fulmer can do any type of customization like leather seats, LED lights, and designer rims, what he most enjoys is building a truck or SUV
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Morgan Wallen
Jason Aldean
Devin Dawson
HARDY
to make it work best and most efficiently for the customer. There are so many ways to outfit a truck to make it more valuable to the customer. And there’s definitely a place at ROC Truck for the horse community. Fulmer can add fuel tanks and airbags for load support to help pulling trailers easier and safer. There’s no job too big or too small for Fulmer and his talented staff at ROC Truck. Although he enjoys the big jobs and meeting famous people and completely changing the look of a stock truck, he puts the same amount of effort and care into the little jobs like installing a hitch or a bed cover. Whether you’re going for a lift, new bumper and monogrammed leather seats or you just need a set of new tires, reach out to Lee Fulmer by calling ROC Truck at 803-226-0761 or just stop by the shop. ROC Truck is located at 924 E Pine Log Road. A new website will be up soon!
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Patrick Boylan has been surveying since 2014, and a licensed Registered Land Surveyor in South Carolina since 2019. Living in the Aiken area, Patrick can get to any survey in a hurry. Send Patrick an email with your survey request, and he will get back to you in a hurry! Don’t forget to mention this ad. Patrick Boylan, PLS | pboylan@boylansurveying.com boylansurveying.com
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THANKSGIVING IN AIKEN TWO TRADITIONS THAT MAKE THANKSGIVING IN AIKEN UNIQUELY MEMORABLE
ARTICLE BY SHELBY MAYER PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA WILLIAMS AND GAYLE BRYAN
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Once again, the Thanksgiving season is upon us. There’s nothing like taking a day to spend quality time with family and friends, indulge in turkey and pumpkin pie, and focus on what we’re thankful for. And one thing that’s sure to make you feel thankful is simply spending Thanksgiving in Aiken. There aren’t too many days throughout the year when our little town is busier than it is on Thanksgiving Day. Aiken is home to a couple of distinctive festivities that will make your holiday feel even more special. To kick things off, you can start your Thanksgiving morning with a uniquely Aiken experience by attending the Blessing of the Hounds, one of Aiken’s most long-standing Thanksgiving traditions. Not only does the ceremony serve as the
unofficial start of Thanksgiving Day, but it also precedes Aiken Hounds’ formal Opening Meet, officially kicking off Aiken’s hunt season. A local clergyman officiates the annual ceremony, and it pays homage to the tradition of foxhunting, the skilled hounds who participate and the heritage of Aiken’s historic hunt culture. Did you know that Aiken is distinguished as having the oldest drag hunt in the nation? In a drag hunt, a cloth is saturated with fox scent and dragged across the terrain in order to create a trail for the hounds to follow. Mounted riders follow the pack of hounds, who are rewarded at the end of the artificial chase. This beloved, must-do event is a beautiful way to begin your Thanksgiving day. The Blessing of the Hounds occurs at 9 AM on Thanksgiving at Memorial Gate in Hitchcock Woods, and admission is completely free. The traditional ceremony lasts around 30 minutes. The most direct entrance to Hitchcock Woods to CONTINUED >
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use for this event is South Boundary, but please keep in mind that it is closed to traffic early that morning. In accordance with this limitation, attendees are encouraged to park downtown and walk to the event, so make sure you give yourself at least 30 minutes to walk from your car to Memorial Gate. Be sure to dress warmly and comfortably. Once you’ve attended the Blessing of the Hounds, don’t forget to stop for Bloodies and Bagels! This community gathering has been an Aiken tradition since its inception in 2010. Originally organized by the Aiken Land Conservancy, the event is now presented by and
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raises funds for Mental Health of America of Aiken County. Admission is completely free, but donations are always welcome. This year tickets are required and are available at eventbrite.com. Bloodies and Bagels will be held from 9 AM to 11:30 AM on the grounds of the Aiken County Historical Museum, located at 433 Newberry St. SW. In the event of inclement weather, the gathering will simply be moved inside the museum. You can drop by anytime during those hours to enjoy complimentary Bloody Marys, bagels, coffee and hot cider with your loved ones. It’s the perfect follow-up to a chilly morning at the Blessing of the Hounds.
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N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3
events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. NOVEMBER 3 R D
Southerlee Farm Fall Flower Sale
A I K E N C O UNT Y V I S I TO RS C E NT E R 1 33 L AUR E NS ST RE E T | 1 2:0 0 P M - 2:0 0 P M. Come to the Aiken County Visitor Center for a special Fall Flower Sale with Southerlee Farm featuring plants, cut flowers and worm castings. NOVEMBER 4 TH
Applefest 2023
Aiken’s MOST Full-Service MD Med Spa Come see Dr. Emmer and his amazing staff at Palmetto Medicine & Aesthetics.
ST. J O H N' S ME T H O DI ST C H UR C H | 8 :0 0 A M A fabulous fall family event including baked goods, plant sale, silent auction and vendors. Take advantage of the live entertainment and children's activities! Proceeds to Benefit: Cumbee Center, Stand at the Crossroads, Asbury Hills Summer Camp and Inez Crain Scholarship Fund. NOVEMBER 9 TH
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Aiken Talk: “Threads: Exploring People and Place”
A I K E N C E NT E R F O R T HE A RTS | 6 :0 0 P M Engage with exhibitions during a complimentary wine reception from 6:00 PM-6:30 PM. Hear each artist speak at 6:30 PM in the Main Gallery—limited seating for storytelling. Reserve your chair for $10. Artists Andrew Cho, Leslie Alexander, Diana Kirkpatrick, Ginny Southworth and Kristin Alexander explore the meaning of “Threads” from their perspectives. Reserve your chair online: aikencenterforthearts.org/register CONTINUED >
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EVENTS CONTINUED
NOVEMBER 11TH
First Annual Aiken Studio Crawl
O' S UL LYS I DE ST UDI O | 1 0 :0 0 A M Aiken is full of great art, interesting crafts and talented artisits! Where can you find these elusive creatives and where do they create? How do they create? Well, here's your chance! This is an event that will not only give you a chance to meet amazing local artists, but you will have an opportunity to see where they create and where you can find them working! NOVEMBER 23 R D
Bloodies and Bagels
A I K E N C O UNT Y H I STO RI CA L MUS E UM | 9 :30 A M Enjoy a fresh Panera bagel, Bloody Mary, coffee or cider with your friends and family while listening to live music. It's a beautiful way to start your Thanksgiving holiday. Tickets are free, but you must have one to participate. Every person needs a ticket, including children. Donation jars will be available for those who want to support Mental Health America of Aiken County. NOVEMBER 3 0 TH
Festival of Trees
A I K E N V I S I TO R S C E NT E R A N D T R A I N MUS E UM | 1 0 :0 0 A M Join us for the annual Festival of Trees at the City of Aiken Visitors Center & Train Museum. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite tree by Friday, December 16th. The winner will be announced on Sunday, December 18th. All children must be accompanied by an adult. This is a free event.
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