HOT AUGUST TUESDAYS
IN-PERSON, IN AUGUST
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Chamber members are invited to grab a cup of joe and join the Aiken Chamber for our in-person, “HOT August Tuesdays” series each Tuesday in August, starting at 9 a.m.
Each week members will hear from industry experts and community leaders who will speak about topics relevant to Aiken’s business community. Presenters will deliver short opening remarks and will then engage in conversations of importance to the attendees. Individuals who want to be well-informed and up to date on the latest news should make plans to attend.
Each HOT August Tuesday will be held at the Aiken Chamber of Commerce. There is no charge for members to attend, but registration is required. REGISTER HERE
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The Cost of Living Index in the Aiken-Augusta area was about 16 percent below the national average in the first quarter of 2021, according to the Council for Community and Economic Research. With the average composite index rated at 100, Aiken-Augusta scored 84.2 in the first quarter of 2021.
This is the lowest composite index in the 18 Metropolitan Statistical Areas, also called MSAs, measured in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina and is the 13th lowest of the 213 areas across the nation. Aiken is part of the federally designated MSA consisting of Aiken and Edgefield counties in South Carolina and Richmond, Burke, Columbia and McDuffie counties in Georgia.
“Many folks doing research to relocate use the Cost of Living Index as a key decision factor,” said Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson. “Aiken’s composite cost of living shows folks that living in Aiken is a good decision for their wallets. With this kind of positive data the locals know what I’m going to say next, If you’re lucky enough to live in Aiken, you’re lucky enough.”
The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is among more than 400 other chambers of commerce and economic development organizations that provide data for the Cost of Living Index. The index is recognized for official use by the U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, CNN Money and the President's Council of Economic Advisors.
The Aiken Chamber collects the data to provide a snapshot of how prices compare at a single point in time in the local area to other areas across the country. The information can then be used by individuals considering relocation, by employees and employers in salary negotiations, and by others who want accurate data about local pricing.
The Cost of Living Index consists of six major categories: grocery items, housing, utilities, transportation, health care, and miscellaneous goods and services. The composite index is weighted as follows: 14.16 percent for grocery items, 27.87 percent for housing, 9.3 percent for utilities, 8.87 percent for transportation, 4.69 percent for health care and 35.11 percent for miscellaneous goods and services. These figures reflect the typical distribution of spending for professional and managerial level households across the nation.
A staff member of the Aiken Chamber gathers prices three times per year from at least five establishments for every item in the index, other than utilities. A personal visit, phone call or email and the corresponding documentation are required for each.
The Chamber prices 26 specific items at Food Lion, Fresh Market, Kroger, Publix and Wal-Mart for the grocery section. Examples of these items are ground beef, bread, coffee, eggs and dishwashing powder. The data is then entered into the Council for Community and Economic Research database and is used to compute the Cost of Living Index.
The other categories also require research and cooperation with area businesses. A number of builders, real estate professionals and leasing agents supply housing data. The cost of gasoline and automobile maintenance, basic medical care, eye care and dental care (excluding insurance), as well as prices of restaurant food, apparel and entertainment are all factors that go into the development of the index.
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Quality craftsmanship and excellent design are the hallmarks of Aiken’s Makin’. Held annually since 1976 by the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, the 45th Aiken’s Makin’ will feature the handiwork of 166 fine artisans and 20 food vendors from across the southeast.
The Aiken’s Makin’ committee worked diligently in 2020 to configure a socially distanced layout so the 44th annual event could occur, but eventually the event was canceled out of caution for the community.
However, all the planning for a safe 2020 will not go to waste. A new and improved layout will be featured in 2021 utilizing not only Park Avenue, but it will also feature booths meandering through the shade trees and new paths in the parkway along the avenue.
“We feel the shoppers and crafters will enjoy having a little bit more elbow room this year and are just thrilled to have the show returning,” said Aiken’s Makin’ show director Dianne Phillips. “The number of applications received was phenomenal. The artists and crafters are eager to showcase their handmade works.”
Aiken’s Makin’ is a juried event. A selection committee reviews each application and its accompanying photos to assure the quality and variety of items available. Art and craft exhibitors include those who work in clay, wood, glass, fibers, leather, metal, gems, photography, and mixed media to make one-of-a-kind creations that can be functional as well as beautiful. Food vendors include funnel cakes, kettle corn, Asian cuisine, gyros, crab cakes, and more.
Aiken’s Makin’ has a well-deserved reputation for an ambiance that is relaxed, hospitable and fun. There is no charge to attend the event. Hours are Friday, Sept. 10, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 11, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Aiken’s Makin’ masterpiece sponsors are Master Chevrolet Cadillac and Bank of America.
“At Bank of America, we believe in the power of the arts to help economies thrive, educate and enrich societies, and create greater cultural understanding,” said Ora Parish, president for Bank of America Greater Augusta/Aiken. “Our commitment to the arts will expand this year as we partner with Aiken’s Makin’ craft festival.”
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Cold Creek Nurseries held a ribbon cutting ceremony March 25 to celebrate the rebranding of the company. Stop by 398 Hitchcock Parkway to see their fresh new look and all the wonderful renovations and updates, including a great selection of new inventory. Cutting the ribbon is Cold Creek Nurseries owner Bill Tiszai with Aiken Chamber of Commerce President/CEO J. David Jameson. They are joined by the Cold Creek Nurseries staff and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador team. Visit www.coldcreeknurseries.net to learn more. |
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repurposedMATERIALS held a ribbon cutting ceremony March 25 to announce the opening of its warehouse location at 70 State St, Williston, SC 29853. Known as "America's largest INDUSTRIAL thrift store." We encourage industries to give them a call at (803) 266-2350 before throwing surplus materials away. Allow the team at repurposedMATERIALS to find a way to give it a second life and put money in your pocket. Make sure to follow their Facebook page, or check out their website to learn more: www.repurposedmaterialsinc.com. Cutting the ribbon is repurposedMATERIALS Founder and President Damon Carson with Aiken Chamber of Commerce President/CEO J. David Jameson. They are joined by members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador team. |
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Jowers Technology Solutions held a ribbon cutting June 16 to celebrate the opening of its new brick and mortar location at 105 Summerwood Way Suite D. If you are in need of computer, network or IT/cyber security services, make sure you give Dillon a call at (803) 507-7768. Cutting the ribbon is Jowers Technology Solutions CEO Dillon Jowers with his wife Amy Jowers, and Aiken Chamber of Commerce President/CEO J. David Jameson. They are joined by members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador team. Learn more at www.jowerstechsolutions.com. |
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Mike Hostilo Law Firm held a ribbon cutting ceremony June 15 to celebrate the opening of its new Aiken location at 228 Richland Ave. W., Suite #3. Stop on by and visit the energetic team for a VIP experience or call (803) 525-0700 to make an appointment. Make sure to follow their Facebook page and check out their website www.mikehostilolawfirm.com to learn more. |
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Truth Roofing held a ribbon cutting ceremony June 3 to celebrate the grand opening of its new Aiken location. Stop by and see the Truth Roofing Team at 946 Millbrook Ave or give them a call at (803) 961-5909. Cutting the ribbon is Truth Roofing Owner Chris Brennan with Aiken President/CEO J. David Jameson. They are joined by the Truth Roofing staff and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador team. Learn more at https://truthroofingaugusta.com/
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State Farm Insurance, Swanson Agency held a ribbon cutting June 1 to celebrate the official opening of its new office located at 410 Hitchcock Parkway. You can stop by and see the team from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or you can call (803) 226-9838. Cutting the ribbon is State Farm Agent, Hannah Swanson and holding the ribbon in the center is Aiken Chamber of Commerce President/CEO J. David Jameson. They are joined by the Swanson State Farm Team, along with members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador team. Learn more at www.sfagenthannah.com.
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Leonard Building & Truck Accessories held a ribbon cutting ceremony on May 26 to celebrate the grand opening of its new retail location at 1172 East Pine Log Rd. Stop by and see their great selection of truck accessories, trailers and haulers, sheds and much more. Their hours of operation are Monday - Friday 8 a.m.- 6:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. In the picture are Leonard Building & Truck Accessories Retail Marketing Manager, Martin Nubson, Store Manager Devin Wilder, Aiken Chamber of Commerce President/CEO J. David Jameson, along with the Aiken Chamber Ambassador team and the Leonard Building & Truck Accessories team. Learn more at www.leonardusa.com. |
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357ten – Jewelry & Gifts
Handmade jewelry, affordable jewelry, accessories
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Julie Steen
Phone: (803) 979-1854
Augusta University Military and Veteran Services – Education
Through excellent customer service, the Office of Military and Veteran Services facilitates access to benefits and services that support academic success for Augusta University’s military student.
2500 Walton Way
Augusta, GA 30904
Contact: Stefane Raulerson
Phone: (706) 729-2255
Patriots Pest Control – Pest Control
Providing pest and termite protection for your home. Protecting your property from ants, mosquitos, termites, and moisture. Veteran owned and operated.
4616 Edisto Road
Aiken, SC 29805
Contact: Jacob Morse
Phone: (803) 761-3027
Rack and Grill III – Restaurant
A great place to relax with friends, shoot some pool, grab a beer and enjoy some great food. We are a fun, family-friendly environment! #MAKINGPOOLGREATAGAIN
522 York Street, NE
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Michael Newsome
Phone: (803) 226-0256
TruSelect IT Recruiting Agency, LLC – Staffing Services
Veteran owned information technology recruiting agency.
6062 Vermilion Loop
Graniteville, SC 29829
Contact: Charles Coker
Phone: (803) 464-7792
World Finance – Loans (Installment)
We offer personal installment loans to fit your every need as well as file taxes and offer 0% tax advances on most refunds. Open year round and ready to get you back to the good.
778 Silver Bluff Road
Aiken, SC 29803
Contract: Jennifer Easler
Phone: (803) 845-2970
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