|
|
The Aiken Chamber exists to be the catalyst for business growth, the convener for leaders and influencers, and the champion for a stronger community.
|
|
This mission can only be accomplished through the dedication and talents of the Aiken Chamber professional staff and volunteers working together to help Aiken and its business community grow and thrive.
The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is accredited at the highest level by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce – 5 stars. This is an honor attained by only 129 chambers of the over 7,000 chambers of commerce in the nation.
Accreditation with the United States Chamber of Commerce is the only program of its kind that defines excellence in chamber planning and recognizes chambers for outstanding
contributions toward positive change in their communities. It is a prestigious honor that distinguishes chambers for their high quality, expertise, and strong leadership.
A diverse, dynamic group, of individuals forms the chamber leadership on the board of directors. The board represents a cross section of the Chamber membership and offers a broad perspective on business and community related matters. These volunteer leaders, led by chair Ryan Reynolds, work throughout the year in guiding the organization as it carries out its 2021 program of work.
J. David Jameson, president/CEO of the Aiken Chamber has led the Aiken Chamber since 2006 and has over 40 years of successful experience in the chamber and economic development industry. Jameson leads the organization in implementing the five core areas of the Chamber’s program of work:
• Leadership and Impact
· Regional Advocacy and Community Focus
• Economic Opportunity and Market Growth
• Business Training and Education
• Fiscal Integrity and Operations
Jameson has two favorite sayings, “If you’re lucky enough to live in Aiken, you’re lucky enough” and “It’s a great day for business in Aiken, South Carolina.” He and the professional team of the Aiken Chamber work daily to make sure these two statements are true.
“The professional staff of the Aiken Chamber is second to none. Each brings unique gifts and graces to the organization and through their passion and commitment we are able to serve the Aiken community,” Jameson said.
Dianne Phillips is the vice president of administration and oversees the Chamber’s operations including all financial responsibilities – a priority in achieving the 5-star accreditation. The Chamber maintains audit quality financial statements throughout the year. While not required, the Chamber undergoes an annual audit which confirms the strength of the Chamber’s financial integrity. In addition to administration duties, Phillips is the director for the award-winning annual Aiken’s Makin’ arts and crafts show. Phillips has dedicated 25 years of exemplary service to the organization.
Mandy Collins has been with the Aiken Chamber since 2010 where she began as the information services coordinator. In 2015, she was promoted to vice president of economic vitality. In this role, Collins is responsible for carrying out economic vitality initiatives and Chamber communications including the award-winning community guide “Welcome Aiken.” Collins also works alongside the Chamber president on public affairs issues and is the lead for the accreditation process.
Jim Tunison joined the Chamber’s professional team just a short 2 ½ years ago but has made a great impact on the organization. His fresh ideas energize the Chamber team and support the membership in new and exciting ways. Tunison is responsible for the Chamber’s many events, and his infectious smile is often seen on social media interviewing Chamber members to help them promote their business. Tunison was recently recognized by the Aiken Standard as a YP2Follow, Young Professional to Follow.
In July, the Chamber welcomed a returning employee to the team, Emily Murphy. She will work in collaboration with Tunison on events, membership recruitment, advertising sales, sponsorships, and other revenue development. Murphy worked at the Chamber from 2015-2019 and has recently returned to the organization she calls family. She is known for bringing a special personal touch to her work and is a people person extraordinaire.
|
|
SBA to unveil PPP forgiveness portal |
|
By August, the Small Business Administration is expected to unveil details on its as yet unlaunched Paycheck Protection Program forgiveness portal, through which certain small businesses can apply for loan forgiveness through the SBA. Currently, all borrowers need to apply for loan forgiveness directly at their lender.
The new PPP forgiveness portal would simplify the process for borrowers and lenders. Lenders would need to opt into the platform for their clients, and it is anticipated that direct loan forgiveness would be reserved for those with loans under $150,000.
The SBA is separately working on a way to refine the loan forgiveness process for loans from $150,000 up to $2 million. Earlier this month, the SBA announced that it will eliminate the loan necessity review for loans of $2 million or more. In total, the SBA distributed more than $799 billion in emergency funding through 11.8 million loans, most of which will soon be looking to have their loans forgiven.
|
|
SHOP AIKEN to purchase computers, clothes, school supplies, and a variety of other items free of Sales Tax during South Carolina's annual 72-hour Sales Tax Holiday. The 2021 Tax Free Weekend takes place Friday, August 6, through Sunday, August 8.
South Carolina Tax Free Weekend is a great way for shoppers to save money, and it's also a great way to demonstrate our support of our local as well as state-wide businesses.
Tax-free items include computers, printers, school supplies, clothing and accessories, footwear, and certain bed and bath items. These tax-free items can be new or used and are eligible regardless of price. Cloth masks are tax-free during the Sales Tax Holiday since they are considered clothing accessories.
Items that are not tax-free during the Sales Tax Holiday include digital cameras, smartphones, jewelry, cosmetics, eyewear, wallets, watches, furniture, rental clothing or footwear, and items for use in a trade or business.
Last year, South Carolina shoppers bought more than $18.1 million in tax-free items during the Sales Tax Holiday.
Information for Retailers
- All retailers who sell eligible items participate in the Sales Tax Holiday and may not collect Sales Tax from their customers on eligible purchases.
- A retailer toolkit with social media graphics, posts, and FAQs is available at dor.sc.gov/retailer-toolkit.
- Sales of eligible tax-free items during the Sales Tax Holiday should be reported and taken as a deduction on a retailer's August Sales Tax return. Retailers can file and pay Sales Tax and manage all of their South Carolina tax accounts online using the free tax portal, MyDORWAY.
|
|
HOT AUGUST TUESDAYS
IN-PERSON, IN AUGUST
|
|
|
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.
|
|
August 2 will be an exciting day for new teachers in Aiken County Public Schools. This will be the first day of teacher orientation and the beginning of their rewarding careers. We are thrilled that these professionals have chosen to teach the students of Aiken County and want to say welcome.
Every year since 2009, the Aiken Chamber and its members come together to provide funds to help these new educators offset the costs of setting up their first classrooms. Typically, this has been a gift card or a $50 bill.
This year through the generous support of members and sponsors, each new educator will receive $100 in $2 bills that are each stamped with the words The Aiken Chamber Means Business.
Teachers are encouraged to spend these eye-catching bills at local businesses and develop the SHOP AIKEN habit.
|
|
Calling all future leaders |
|
Leadership Aiken County Applications are now available for the class of 2021-2022. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to sharpen your leadership abilities, expand your network, foster meaningful professional relationships and give back to your community.
Leadership Aiken County (LAC) is a program designed to identify, develop, and motivate new leadership for the Aiken County community. Established in 1981, LAC seeks to develop a group of informed, committed, and qualified individuals capable of providing dynamic community leadership for Aiken County.
Program objectives are accomplished through a competitive selection process, intensive team-building activities, and exposure to local issues, regional resources, and various County leaders. Participants learn more about the critical issues of the community than many lifelong residents.
LAC offers an intensive and up-close look at various sectors/areas of the community, from the larger cities of North Augusta and Aiken to the rural towns and unincorporated areas. Participants in LAC explore and analyze issues that impact their county, while focusing on fundamental leadership principles.
In addition to examining leadership roles in political, social and economic affairs, participants will interact with a variety of community leaders. LAC guarantees increased understanding and change within each participant.
Leadership graduates join a growing network of alumni who are valued participants in the community and in the governmental activities that will determine the future of Aiken County.
|
|
KAMO Janitorial Supplies & Equipment held a ribbon cutting on Wednesday July 21 to celebrate the grand opening of their showroom in Aiken. If your company is in need of janitorial supplies, equipment or would like a consultation, swing on by 550 Silver Bluff Rd., Suite 500 and speak with a KAMO representative today. Pictured cutting the ribbon are KAMO President, Harris Weinstein, KAMO CEO Jack Weinstein and Aiken Chamber of Commerce President/CEO, J. David Jameson. They are joined by the rest of the friendly KAMO staff, along with the Aiken Chamber Ambassador team.
|
|
|
SRP Federal Credit Union broke ground June 25 on the site of its new branch located at 3559 Richland Ave. W. Described as the SRP branch of the future, the facility will house the latest technology in the financial industry to serve its members and the community. Present at the ground breaking are members of the SRP board of directors including chair Sandra DeVoe Bland and interim SRP president Woody Shuler. They are joined by Aiken Mayor Rick Osbon and Aiken Chamber president/CEO J. David Jameson. Construction is expected to be complete in 6-8 months. Learn more about SRP here.
|
|
Small animal veterinary acupuncture and physical rehabilitation.
3438 Whiskey Road
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Mandy DuBose
Phone: (803) 226-0585
John Makolin – Independent Advisor with AFLAC – Insurance (Supplemental)
Here to help small business owners grow their business through quality employee retention and risk reduction.
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: John Makolin
Phone: (706) 305-8335
All American Firearms, LLC – Retail
We are your veteran owned and operated firearms establishment. We offer a full range of top-of-the-line firearms, collectibles, ammunition, and accessories at affordable prices. We provide CWP, safety and defensive shooting courses, and the highest quality gunsmithing in the area.
661 Silver Bluff Road
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Anthony DeFeo
Phone: (803) 443-3722
Barreto Manufacturing, Inc. – Manufacturer
Innovated equipment engineered to last. Barreto is manufactured in Oregon and Idaho and sold worldwide. The Aiken location provides full parts and equipment distribution, sales rep training, and factory-direct sales.
575 Woodward Drive
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Ricanna Halsey
Phone: (800) 525-7348
Helping companies empower their brand with promotional products. Over 350,000 items to choose from.
711 E. Main Street, Suite K
Lexington, SC 29072
Contact: Margaret “Ann” Fink
Phone: (803) 237-9590
Dalzell Design Landscaping – Landscape Design
Centered around its core values of family, sustainability, creativity, moxie, and team work to create beautiful outdoor environments for our clients while providing unparalleled customer service in the fields of design, construction, and maintenance.
175 Sweetwater Road
North Augusta, SC 29860
Contact: Amanda Dunn
Phone: (803) 335-5028
Elite Hearing Centers of America – Hearing Aid Services
Over 20+ years in the hearing aid industry meeting individuals’ hearing healthcare needs with integrity and purpose.
256 East Gate Drive
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Joanne Weeden
Phone: (803) 226-0023
LeafFilter North of Georgia, LLC – Home Improvement
LeafFilter Gutter Protection seeks to provide the best gutter cover solution paired with an outstanding customer service experience from beginning to end.
2917 Riverwest Drive, Suite 103
Augusta, GA 30907
Contact: Ian Murray
Phone: (800) 290-6106
Murphy Family Insurance – Insurance
5512 Jefferson Davis Highway
Beech Island, SC 29842
Contact: Tina Knox
Phone: (803) 279-8400
Post Up Careers – Career Development
Delivering personalized solutions to help clients “post up” in their career through resume development, career coaching, interview prep, and LinkedIn optimization.
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Franklin Buchanan
Phone: (803) 507-5076
2676 Columbia Highway N
Aiken, SC 29805
Contact: Charles Gilchrist
Phone: (803) 648-3470
Waffle House – Restaurant
More than 1,900 locations in 25 states, open 24/7, Waffle House was founded on the principals of providing the friendliest service in town, while also offering the opportunity for rewarding and quality careers. You are now a part of the Waffle House Family whether you are a regular or first-time visitor.
462 East Pine Log Road
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Charles Gilchrist
Phone: (803) 649-1838
Waffle House – Restaurant
More than 1,900 locations in 25 states, open 24/7, Waffle House was founded on the principals of providing the friendliest service in town, while also offering the opportunity for rewarding and quality careers. You are now a part of the Waffle House Family whether you are a regular or first-time visitor.
105 Frontage Road
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Charles Gilchrist
Phone: (803) 643-0443
Waffle House – Restaurant
More than 1,900 locations in 25 states, open 24/7, Waffle House was founded on the principals of providing the friendliest service in town, while also offering the opportunity for rewarding and quality careers. You are now a part of the Waffle House Family whether you are a regular or first-time visitor.
1710 Richland Avenue, W
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Charles Gilchrist
Phone: (803) 644-4098
Waffle House – Restaurant
More than 1,900 locations in 25 states, open 24/7, Waffle House was founded on the principals of providing the friendliest service in town, while also offering the opportunity for rewarding and quality careers. You are now a part of the Waffle House Family whether you are a regular or first-time visitor.
2519 Whiskey Road
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Charles Gilchrist
Phone: (803) 649-9990
Waffle House – Restaurant
More than 1,900 locations in 25 states, open 24/7, Waffle House was founded on the principals of providing the friendliest service in town, while also offering the opportunity for rewarding and quality careers. You are now a part of the Waffle House Family whether you are a regular or first-time visitor.
1139 York Street, NE
Aiken, SC 29805
Contact: Charles Gilchrist
Phone: (803) 642-1007
|
|
ALWAYS LEARNING WITH SCORE
FREE CLASSES TO START OR GROW YOUR BUSINESS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
