December 18, 2025

America’s Nuclear Renaissance Is Here —

and Aiken Is Poised to Lead

America is entering a true nuclear renaissance. With federal investment accelerating, private capital pouring into advanced reactor companies, and national security demands rising, the country is turning to nuclear energy not just as a power source, but as an innovation engine. Few communities in the United States are better positioned to lead this resurgence than Aiken, South Carolina.

This week, Aiken leadership attended South Carolina’s 2nd Annual Nuclear Summit, a sold-out gathering that brought together top federal agencies, industry leaders, technology startups, legislators, and economic development organizations. The scale of participation sent a powerful message: South Carolina is a proud, pro-nuclear state—unified, coordinated, and ready to compete nationally.

Aiken’s Unique Nuclear Advantage

Aiken’s competitive position in the national nuclear landscape is unmatched. While many regions host federal sites, Aiken’s ecosystem is deeper, more integrated, and more forward-leaning than nearly anywhere else.

1. A 75-Year Legacy at the Savannah River Site

The Savannah River Site (SRS) remains one of America’s most important nuclear assets. For decades, SRS has been home to world-class research, national security missions, environmental stewardship, and a highly trained workforce.

This legacy means Aiken possesses something rare: a community that understands nuclear, supports nuclear, and excels at nuclear.

2. A Highly Skilled, Nuclear-Trained Workforce

Aiken’s workforce is one of the most experienced and dependable in the country. Generations of technicians, engineers, scientists, and contractors have built careers at SRS, SRNL, and the region’s nuclear contractors. Companies seeking advanced manufacturing, testing, or research capabilities will not find a more qualified labor pool.

3. Powerful Educational & Training Partnerships

Aiken’s academic institutions are uniquely aligned to the needs of the nuclear economy:

USC Aiken’s Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative (AMC)

A world-class facility built in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy to support advanced materials, robotics, manufacturing technologies, and innovation—exactly what next-generation reactor companies need.

Aiken Technical College

Providing direct-to-workforce nuclear certifications, apprenticeship pathways, and highly technical training for site contractors and advanced manufacturers.

National Guard Cyber Integration Center at USC Aiken

A key asset in a world where nuclear infrastructure requires ironclad cyber protection. The presence of a military cyber unit on campus underscores Aiken’s commitment to dual-use, national security–aligned innovation.



4. SRSCRO WORC Grants

The SRSCRO is working with the U.S. Department of Energy to advance nuclear education and training activities in the region through the Workforce Opportunities in the Region Careers (WORC) Grants. Building on the earlier DOE-funded Advancing Nuclear Skills Regionally (ANSR) program, WORC provides scholarships, retention support, and outreach to promote nuclear-related education and training across partner institutions in South Carolina and Georgia. The SRS Community Reuse Organization (SRSCRO) serves as the fiscal agent and provides coordination of regional efforts for the WORC Program.

A Pro-Nuclear State Backed by Strong Leadership

The Nuclear Summit made one thing clear: South Carolina’s leadership is serious about doubling down on nuclear energy. Legislators, statewide economic development leaders, and federal partners are aligned in their support for next-generation nuclear technologies, from small modular reactors to microreactors to advanced fuel development.

Aiken’s local delegation—including county leadership, economic development partners, and the Aiken Chamber—demonstrated the region’s readiness to collaborate, attract new investment, and support America’s expanding nuclear mission.

Why Aiken Will Lead America’s Nuclear Future

As reactor startups secure major funding rounds, as the U.S. Army expands programs like JANUS, and as the DOE accelerates its push for advanced reactors on domestic soil, communities across the country are jockeying for position. But only a few are truly ready, and Aiken is one of them.

With unmatched nuclear heritage, world-class research partnerships, a technically skilled workforce, powerful educational institutions, and a state that loudly supports nuclear energy, Aiken is not just participating in the nuclear renaissance—Aiken is leading it.

Unwrapping a Successful Red Ticket Season

The BUY AIKEN – RED TICKET campaign wrapped up Monday, Dec. 15 with the drawing of 3 grand prize tickets each worth $1,000.

The campaign urged consumers to spend money in Aiken and rewarded them with the chance to win cash prizes. For each $25 in purchases of goods or services from participating businesses, customers received a numbered red ticket that was entered into the drawings held each week for a total of $5,000 in cash prizes throughout the campaign. 

The BUY AIKEN – RED TICKET campaign began in 2021 following COVID to encourage shoppers to stop clicking a computer mouse to shop and start walking through the doors of Aiken’s small businesses.

This year, the campaign reached new heights, with a staggering 96,381 tickets given out to enthusiastic shoppers, representing $2,409,525 spent at the nearly 60 participating businesses. Since its inception in 2021, over 385,000 tickets have been given out, equating to over $9.6 million in sales for participating businesses. This milestone showcases the remarkable success and economic impact of the BUY AIKEN – RED TICKET initiative on the local community.

“The Red Ticket campaign was a great way to increase our visibility on social media while supporting a larger effort to shop local. We loved being part of a campaign that celebrates and uplifts small businesses in Aiken,” said Julie and Dan Goodwin, owners of Fox and the Bee Farm, who participated for the first time this year.

The BUY AIKEN – RED TICKET campaign is a collaborative effort, and the Chamber expresses its gratitude to the community for embracing the initiative. The consistent support from shoppers, store owners, and sponsors has been instrumental in the campaign's success and encouragement to continue to shop Aiken reinforces a shared commitment to sustaining local businesses and keeping our community thriving.

The 2025 BUY AIKEN – RED TICKET campaign was sponsored by:

Master Chevrolet, Columbia Vehicle Group, Cumulus Media, and WRDW TV.

The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that President/CEO Jim Tunison has been elected to serve on the 2026 Board of Directors for the Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (CACCE).

CACCE represents chamber professionals across North Carolina and South Carolina and is dedicated to providing leadership development, best-practice resources, and collaborative opportunities for chamber executives. In this regional leadership role, Tunison will join colleagues from across the Carolinas to help guide the organization’s strategic direction and support efforts that strengthen chambers and the communities they serve. Tunison’s term will begin January 1, 2026.

“We are thrilled to see Jim’s leadership recognized at the regional level,” said Dustin Ennis, incoming 2026 Aiken Chamber Chair. “His service on the CACCE board will bring valuable insights back to Aiken and further elevate our work to support a thriving business community.”

USCA Launches Innovation & Economic Development Council

The University of South Carolina Aiken is launching the USCA Innovation and Economic Development Council, a new advisory body designed to help the university align its research, innovation, and strategic initiatives with broader economic and regional development goals. The council will work to strengthen collaboration between the university, business and industry, and government in an effort to drive innovation and regional prosperity.

Chancellor Dr. Daniel Heimmermann emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “The launch of the USCA Innovation and Economic Development Council represents a pivotal step in strengthening our role as a driver of regional growth and a catalyst for South Carolina’s future. By bringing together leaders from business, industry, government, and the university, we are creating a powerful advisory body that will help align our research, innovation, and workforce initiatives with the evolving needs of our state and region. This council will ensure that USCA remains at the forefront of fostering innovation ecosystems, expanding strategic partnerships, and generating meaningful economic impact. I am grateful for the distinguished leaders who are joining us in this work and look forward to the transformational progress we will achieve together.”

The council will be composed of select community, business, and industry leaders, along with key statewide stakeholders and strategic connectors. Members will meet quarterly on the USCA campus, with a virtual participation option available through Microsoft Teams.

Dynamic Leadership for the Upcoming Year

The Aiken Chamber of Commerce recently announced its leadership team for 2026. Representing a cross section of the Chamber membership, they are a diverse and hard-working group. Each member offers a unique perspective on community and business-related issues.

“As I step into the role of Chair of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, I’m honored by the opportunity and energized by the work ahead as we move toward 2026. This is a critical time for strengthening our workforce pipeline, supporting economic growth, and advocating for policies that help our business community thrive. I look forward to working alongside our Board of Directors, Chamber staff, and engaged members to advance these priorities and deliver meaningful results for Aiken County,” said Ennis when asked about his anticipation for serving as Chair of the Board.

With major initiatives on the horizon, Aiken Chamber President and CEO Jim Tunison is confident the organization’s leadership is well positioned to drive progress, elevate the business community’s voice, and deliver real value for Chamber members.

The Chamber remains committed to educating and engaging the public and business community on the key factors that drive business growth and impact quality of life. By highlighting the importance of a strong business climate as the foundation of a thriving community, the Chamber will foster long-term prosperity by promoting innovation, celebrating achievements, and supporting the growth of families.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Stuart Bedenbaugh

City of Aiken

Dr. Corey Murphy

Aiken County Public Schools

Brian Sanders

Aiken County

Will Williams

Western SC, Economic Development Partnership

Tom Young, Jr.

Young & Thurmond, LLC

Aiken’s Makin’ Celebrates 50 Years of Craft, Community, and Connection

In 2026, Aiken’s Makin’ will celebrate a remarkable milestone — 50 years of showcasing creativity, craftsmanship, and community in the heart of downtown Aiken. What began in 1976 as a modest artisan gathering has grown into one of South Carolina’s signature festivals, drawing nearly 30,000 attendees each year to Park Avenue beneath its iconic canopy of shade trees.

Aiken’s Makin’ is a free, two-day arts and crafts event, held annually on the Friday and Saturday after Labor Day. Walkable, family-friendly, and deeply rooted in tradition, the event brings together parents pushing strollers, longtime residents reconnecting with friends, and visitors experiencing Aiken’s unmistakable sense of belonging for the first time. When thousands gather downtown, Aiken’s Makin’ is more than a festival — it is a reflection of the community itself.

Each year, more than 200 juried artisans are selected to participate, with approximately one-third new vendors annually, ensuring a fresh experience while honoring the show’s longstanding reputation for quality and originality . This balance mirrors Aiken’s own story: grounded in tradition, yet continually welcoming new ideas, talent, and people.

At its core, Aiken’s Makin’ is not simply a craft show — it is an invitation. It invites residents and newcomers alike to experience the creativity, hospitality, and rhythm of life that define Aiken. As longtime organizer Dianne Phillips once noted, “The meandering hardscape paths under the canopy of shade trees is a perfect place to enjoy the day and have a little, or a lot of, retail therapy. There is something for everyone at Aiken’s Makin’.”

2026 Artist & Vendor Information

Applications for the 50th Aiken’s Makin’ will be available in early 2026.

• Application Deadline: February 27, 2026
• Acceptances Mailed: March 31, 2026
• Event Dates: September 11 & 12, 2026

The show is juried to maintain artistic excellence and variety. Selection committees carefully review applications and photos to curate a diverse mix of artisans, crafters, and food vendors. Acceptance in one year does not guarantee participation in the next, reinforcing the show’s commitment to innovation and quality.

Aiken’s Makin’ welcomes a wide range of media, including folk art, pottery, handmade clothing, jewelry, woodcraft, leather goods, basketry, ironwork, stained glass, canvas art, and specialty food products. Food vendors offering both traditional fair favorites and non-traditional cuisine are encouraged to apply.

More Than an Event

For 50 years, Aiken’s Makin’ has demonstrated the kind of place Aiken is — one that values creativity, connection, and shared experience. Events like this don’t just draw crowds; they reinforce why people choose to live, work, and invest here. They signal a community where weekends are filled with art, conversation, and the simple joy of gathering together.

As Aiken’s Makin’ enters its golden anniversary year, it does so with the same spirit it began with in 1976 — celebrating craftsmanship, fostering connection, and welcoming everyone to be part of something enduring. For more information, visit www.aikenchamber.net.

Sponsored by:

Aflac

Insurance

Offering supplemental insurance products, short term, cancer, hospital, accident, and life coverage.

Aiken, SC 29803



Contact: Melissa Murray

Phone: (952) 737-7179

www.aflac.com

AV3 Inc.

Audio/Video Systems (Sales + Installation)

A Native American and Veteran owned audio visual integration company that specializes in commercial and government upgrades and custom builds.

1291 Interstate Parkway

Augusta, GA 30909



Contact: Christa Avret

Phone: (706) 564-9528

www.av3inc.com

Dink'd Pickleball

Sign Company

Entertainment + Activities

Premier indoor pickleball facility in the CSRA, offering climate-controlled courts, open play, leagues, tournaments, professional instruction, and a social atmosphere with food and beverages.

500 Furys Ferry Road, Suite 107

Augusta, GA 30907



Contact: Troy Akers

Phone: (706) 909-3303

www.dinkdpickleball.com

Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Aiken Chapel

Funeral Home

Providing compassionate, professional funeral and cremation services, offering families guidance, dignity, and support through every step of life’s most difficult moments.

211 Park Avenue, SW

Aiken, SC 29801



Contact: Jerry Beese

Phone: (803) 649-6234

www.miltonshealy.com

The Parlour Coffee & Company

Coffee Shop

Not far from downtown Aiken in the Eastside Village, we are looking forward to sharing the taste of The Parlour with you.

703 Richland Avenue, E

Aiken, SC 29801



Contact: Heather Willaby

(916) 430-2868

RestoPros of the Midlands

Fire/Water/Mold Clean-up

Specializing in fire, water and mold restoration.

100 Branch Road

West Columbia, SC 29170



Contact: Tommy Scott

Phone: (803) 493-0170

www.restoprosmidlandssc.com

Rhumba Latin Restaurant & Bar

Restaurant

Full service restaurant offering dishes from all of Latin America, craft cocktails, walk in humidor and outdoor lounge.

321 Richland Avenue, W

Aiken, SC 29801



Contact: Elier Alberto

Phone: (803) 226-0014

www.rhumbarestaurant.com

Sindar Kennel LLC

Canine Behavior Consultant

Owned and operated by a professional Canine Behavior Consultant and offers punishment-free science-based boarding and behavior modification services. Sindar specializes in addressing and prevention of emotional issues in canines such as fear, anxiety and aggression.

125 Sharon Road

Wagener, SC 29164



Contact: Melissa Hartley

Phone: (803) 467-7548

www.sindarkennel.com

Stable View

Accommodations, Health & Wellness, Restaurant

We welcome riders, nature enthusiasts, and tourists alike to indulge in an unrivaled experience within the foothills of Appalachia. Offering athletes a unique blend of nature, self-care, trails, and world-class equestrian amenities, there is no place quite like Stable View.

117 Stable Drive

Aiken, SC 29801



Contact: Barry Olliff

Phone: (484) 356-3173

https://stableviewfarm.com/

Take 5 Oil Change Aiken

Automotive Repairs

Open soon in 2026 – new location on Aiken’s Westside.

306 Hitchcock Parkway

Aiken, SC 29801



Contact: Mendy Williams

Phone: (803) 679-8080

www.take5oilchange.com

ZenBusiness

Business Support Services + Consulting

An AI-powered platform that helps entrepreneurs start strong and stay compliant. We simplify business formation and ongoing compliance while helping protect owners from personal liability.

5511 Parkcrest Drive, Suite 103

Austin, TX 78731



Contact: Cody Brooke

Phone: (512) 765-4985

https://www.zenbusiness.com/

Building Aiken's Future

one ribbon cutting at a time

On November 18, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the grand opening of the Optometry center at Rural Health Services located at 1000 Clyburn Pl. Cutting the ribbon is Dr. Michael Fulford and Dr. Danielle Drake alongside Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. Notably in attendance was Gail Diggs, Lessie Price, Kay Brohl, Ed Girardeau, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Andrew Gunter, Rural Health Services Board Chair Liz Stewart and South Carolina Rep. Bill Clyburn. They are also joined by staff and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. At this location, optometry patients receive comprehensive exams, eye health assessments, treatment, and management of eye conditions, and more. After eye exams, the Optometry team will assist in finding the perfect pair of therapeutic or cosmetic eyeglasses or contact lenses. Insurance is not necessary to receive services, but is accepted along with Medicaid. For more information, visit www.ruralhs.org.

On November 18, the Aiken Chamber celebrated new member The Aiken Sign Co. with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is owner Chris Wade alongside Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. The Aiken Sign Co. offers custom signage, vehicle wraps, decals, and vinyl graphics that bring your brand to life. They also provide professional printing (like business cards and promo materials) and even sign maintenance and restoration to keep everything looking fresh and sharp. For more information on services, visit www.aikensignco.com. 

On November 19, the Aiken Chamber celebrated with Children's Place, Inc. on the completion of their playground which now includes a nine-hole putting green. Cutting the ribbon is Executive Director of Children's Place, Peggy Ford joined by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. Notably in attendance was Mayor Teddy Milner, Councilwomen Kay Brohl and Gail Diggs, Councilman Ed Girardeau and SC Rep. Bill Clyburn. Children’s Place’s new putting green was made possible by donations from The Kisner Foundation. Board member Rob Johnston and his wife, Pam, have also made significant contributions to Children’s Place. Today, “The Back Nine,” as the putting green on the playground is called, was dedicated to Rob and Pam in recognition of their incredible generosity. Children’s Place, Inc., located at 155 Prosperity Ln NE, is a trusted nonprofit center serving children and families in Aiken, Bamberg, Barnwell, Edgefield, and McCormick counties. They offer therapeutic childcare, counseling (both family and individual), and evidence-based parenting support programs like Strengthening Families. For more information, visit www.childrensplaceinc.org. 

On November 25, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the grand opening of AASA Transportation, LLC with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is owner Vickie Staley alongside Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by friends and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. AASA Transportation serves South Carolina as a newly established, fully licensed Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) provider. They offer safe, reliable rides to and from doctor’s appointments, physical therapy, and more. Their team is equipped to transport both ambulatory and wheelchair-using clients with care and professionalism. For more information, call 803-571-3630.

On December 2, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the grand opening of Back Nine Aiken with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is Back Nine partner, professional golfer and Aiken native Kevin Kisner joined by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by friends and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. The Back Nine, located at 756 Silver Bluff Rd., offers a top-tier indoor golf experience with 24/7 access to state-of-the-art Full Swing simulators. Whether you’re looking to practice your swing, play world-class courses, or enjoy a fun outing with friends or coworkers, Back Nine provides flexible options for both members and walk-ins. For more information, visit www.thebackninegolf.com/aikensc. 

On December 4, the Aiken Chamber celebrated one of its newest members, Savannah River Junk Removal, with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is Marketing Manager Carrie Hall accompanied by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by Atlas McBride and Carson Hall of Savannah River Junk Removal along with members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Savannah Junk Removal is a family-owned crew serving Aiken, Augusta, North Augusta and the CSRA. They handle everything from residential and commercial clean-outs to construction debris, appliances, furniture, and more — no heavy lifting required. With transparent on-site quotes, same-day scheduling, and a commitment to recycling or donating usable items, they make junk removal simple, eco-friendly and stress-free. For more information, visit www.savannahriverjunkremoval.com. 

On December 4, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the new location for Royalk6 Motivational Group Inc with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is owner Kenya Washington alongside Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by family and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Royalk6 is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to equipping kids ages 6-18 with essential life skills—from tying a tie to writing a resume. In addition to hands-on learning, they offer mentoring, tutoring, and access to licensed therapists and counselors. Their mission is to empower the next generation with the tools they need to succeed. Their new location can be found at 640 Old Airport Rd., inside the Citizens Park Office building.

For more information, call 706-329-2557.

On December 5, the Aiken Chamber celebrated one of Aiken’s newest businesses, Aiken’s Dryer Vent Cleaning LLC, with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon are owners Allen and Hope Landry alongside Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team, along with a special appearance by Congressman Joe Wilson. Aiken’s Dryer Vent Cleaning LLC is a locally owned and insured service provider based in Aiken, dedicated to helping homeowners keep their dryer vents safe, clean, and efficient. Their professional team handles dryer-duct cleaning with careful attention to safety and quality — ensuring your vents are cleared of lint and debris, which helps reduce fire risk and improve dryer performance. For more information, visit www.aikensdryervent.com. 

On December 5, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the grand opening of The Hidden Trough Aesthetics with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is owner Denise Todd accompanied by her husband Paul Todd along with Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team, along with a special appearance by Congressman Joe Wilson. The Hidden Trough Aesthetics is a veteran-owned business that blends clinical expertise with a more holistic, wellness-and-beauty sensibility — offering an elevated, data-driven approach to skincare and wellness. Their services include facials, advanced skincare treatments (like microneedling), body-contouring, scalp and hair care, and revitalizing therapies meant to deliver radiant, healthy skin and overall wellness. For more information, visit www.thehiddentrough.com. 

On December 11, the Aiken Chamber celebrated new business Interstate Parking Aiken, LLC (IPAiken) with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is Blake Sistare alongside his wife Desiree, owners of IPAiken. They are joined by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. IPAiken is a family-owned and operated parking facility located at 1216 Old Kimbill Trail that specializes in secure, affordable outdoor vehicle parking for large formats—specifically semi-trucks, RVs, and boats. The site permits short-term (daily) and long-term (weekly or monthly) bookings, offering the flexibility to “book month to month.” Their lot features large parking spaces, which are well-suited to accommodate tractor-trailers, Class A/ C RVs, travel trailers and fifth-wheels. For more information, visit www.ipaiken.com.