Kara's Blog ( Aiken, SC real estate, things to do, and other stuff!)

Update on my garden.... !

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Thu, 23 May 2013 06:48:17 -0700

For those of you keeping an eye on my garden..... I have strawberry!! Yes, singular, haha -it's the first one to grow- hopefully soon to be plural, since I see many many flowers and buds! My plans for this little berry are to enjoy it this evening, sliced on top of my salad...with lettuce and carrots from my garden :) If you love to grow things, Aiken is perfect!

Take a look!

Thanks for stopping by - come back again! give me a call if I can be of any assistance with your Aiken area property search.

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Aiken SC Condos for sale

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Wed, 22 May 2013 07:16:20 -0700

Are you looking for a condo or townhome in the Aiken SC area? Look no further - here's a link to all of the available condos/townhomes here in Aiken SC! Aiken SC Condos, Villas and Townhomes for sale. I love condo life - usually (but not always!) you have no lawn to mow, no exterior maintenance to worry about - lock and go lifestyle for those who travel frequently, whether for business or pleasure. Do you like to golf? Many of our golf courses are open YEAR ROUND! No matter when you come to town, you can get on the links. Are you an equestrian? If so, Aiken is THE PLACE for you! So many venues for you and your horse, and our own Hitchcock Woods for your enjoyment. Miles and miles of trails for walking or riding your horse - there are no cars allowed in the woods, how awesome is that!!

Visit our website for more information on Aiken, check out our 'links' page to learn more about this great community. Carolina Real Estate Company, Aiken, SC.

This townhome in Kensington has its own putting green right in the back yard!!

Thanks for stopping by - come back again! give me a call if I can be of any assistance with your Aiken area property search.

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Garden time! A bunny in the carrots!

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Fri, 10 May 2013 15:53:08 -0700

My garden is planted, yaay! Here's what I've got going this year: green beans (of course!! - nothing better than fresh picked!!), roma tomatoes, eggplant, watermelon, green onions, red onions, lettuce, strawberries, parsley, basil, oregano and carrots!

Speaking of carrots...here's one of my containers - complete with baby bunny, lol. For me, container gardening is the way to go - give it a try!

What are you growing in your garden?

Thanks for stopping by - come back again! give me a call if I can be of any assistance with your Aiken area property search.

---------------------

I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Summer Concerts in the Gardens! 2013 concert schedule

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Wed, 08 May 2013 09:54:02 -0700

Concert time! 39th Annual Hopelands Gardens Summer Concert Series! Bring a blanket or lawn chair and come enjoy the music! Great idea for 'date night', hint hint.... All concerts start at 7pm unless otherwise noted.

Where: Hopelands Gardens, Dupree Road, Aiken SC - at the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage.

Cost: FREE!!

**Catch the concert shuttle bus in the parking area in back of Odell Weeks - between the Ceramic Studio and the original tennis courts - off Two Notch Road **

Thanks for stopping by - come back again! give me a call if I can be of any assistance with your Aiken area property search.

---------------------

I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Strawberry Festival!! May 11, 2013

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Wed, 08 May 2013 07:45:15 -0700

Need something to do this weekend? Do you like strawberries? I sure do, I'm even growing my own this year. I planted them a bit late, hoping they do well - I'll keep you posted. I'll take a pic of my strawberry plants and post it here later.

A few berry buds starting!!

This Saturday is the annual Strawberry Festival at Mead Hall. (Pendleton Street, Downtown Aiken) This is one of my favorite of all the Downtown Aiken events/festivals. A day of fun for the entire family!! Hope to see you there :)

Time: 10am - 3pm

Place: St. Thaddeus campus: located at 129 Pendleton Street, SW. Downtown Aiken.

Lots to see/do -- games, entertainment, bake sale, casserole sale, crafts, book sale, food and of course those lovely lovely fresh strawberries, yum!. The fresh strawberry ice cream is my favorite.

For more info: 803-644-1122 or visit www.meadhallschool.org

Thanks for stopping by - come back again! give me a call if I can be of any assistance with your Aiken area property search.

---------------------

I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Aiken SC things to do - Lobster Races May 3, 2013!

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 07:04:45 -0700

That's right - it's almost time for the Lobster Races!! Were you looking for something to do in Aiken SC? CHeck out the Lobster Races - A Downtown Aiken traditional event! Always on the Friday before the Kentucky Derby - we race lobsters instead of horses. There will be food vendors, live musice ---lots of live music!! -- fun and games for the kids. The event encompasses the Alley and our Newberry Street Festival block, and it gets packed with happy, smiling faces!

more info lobsterrace.com / 803.646.0523

Thanks for stopping by - come back again! give me a call if I can be of any assistance with your Aiken area property search.

---------------------

I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Things to do in and homes for sale in Downtown Aiken SC

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 09:31:52 -0700

Downtown Aiken is a great little community with a wonderful festival center and awesome shopping and eateries. The festival block closes and we have block parties that have become wonderul family traditions and have grown over the years -- we have the Lobster Races (Friday before the Kentucky Derby), Beach Blast in June, BBQ cook offs, etc... For golfers we have several golf courses playing year round, and we are only 17 short miles to Augusta National Golf Club, home of The Masters.

Homes for sale in downtown Aiken SC - there are several options from fixer-uppers, investments, starter homes, equestrian property, new, historic...you name it, we have it! Click on the link to get to the list of available homes in Downtown Aiken SC- http://www.navicamls.net/displays/?n=229&i=1763139&k=SSzUgA

Thanks for stopping by - come back again! give me a call if I can be of any assistance with your Aiken area property search.

---------------------

I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

We have a horse in the Derby!! Palace Malice

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 16:13:57 -0700

Yessss!!! A horse from Aiken SC will be in the Derby this year, woo hoo! Local Dogwood Stables (Cot Campbell) is thrilled! It's been awhile since they've had a horse in the Derby. They've had 8 horses start, and have had 2nd, 3rd and 4th place finishes! (in 1990 Summer Squall finished 2nd, in 2000 Impeachment finished 3rd, and in 2004 Limehouse finished 4th) Not too shabby for their few appearances. Will Palice Malice take the roses this year??!!! Oh how exciting to have a local horse in the race.

You can see more information here in our local newspaper! Aiken Standard http://www.aikenstandard.com/article/20130417/AIK0101/130419637/aikens-palace-malice-to-run-for-the-roses

Want to spend mornings watching the horses train on the race track? We have homes available in the horse district, give us a call!

Thanks for stopping by - come back again!

---------------------

I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Flag notice! Half-Staff flag observance immediately! 4/16/13

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 15:58:56 -0700

Are you flying the US Flag? If so, there's a half-staff observance in order - now through sunset on 4/20/13 - see the notice below.

> *** Event Date: 04/16/2013
> The President has issued a proclamation as a mark
> of respect for the victims of yesterday’s
> tragic events in Boston, Massachusetts. In it,
> he has directed that flags will be flown at
> half-staff effective immediately and ending at
> sunset on Saturday, April 20th, 2013.

I believe that if you are going to fly the flag, then you should follow the rules :) yes, there are rules to flying the flag - not everyone is aware of this. Did you know it needs to be 'properly illuminated' when flying after sunset? Yup, that and other rules ---- here's where to see them all: http://www.flagandbannersupply.com/flag-etiquette.htm

Thanks for stopping by - come back again!

---------------------

I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Flags at half-mast tomorrow in SC!

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 15:47:16 -0700

Good Evening, I hope all is well. I just received this notice regarding a request from The Governor. If you fly our flag, please read this!

"The Governor requests the flags be flown at
half-mast in tribute of Michael Louis Broz, March
14, 2013, who made the ultimate sacrifice in
serving South Carolina as a volunteer
firefighter."

My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and loved ones of Mr. Broz.

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Foxchase Aiken SC

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 11:00:24 -0800

I'm sure you have heard of Foxchase. The equestrian subdivision located at the edge of Hitchcock Woods, the 2100+ acre forest in the center of our little city :) miles of trails for walking or riding (foot and hoof traffic only!..oh, and carriage wheels) - an earlier post about Hitchcock Woods http://activerain.com/blogsview/524479/more-than-twice-the-size-of-central-park-

Here's an opportunity to have your own little horse property at the edge of the woods, plus Foxchase has their own riding ring, and swimming pool.

Twin Pines in Foxchase!

4 BR, 3.5 bath home w/3880 sq ft of living space. Some updates include tile & granite kitchen w/large center island. Private inground pool. Custom Heider barn w/2 stalls, 2 crossfenced paddocks, wash rack w/hot & cold water, tack room & separate feed room. Barn has auto waterers, stall mats, & fly spray system. With DIRECT ACCESS to Hitchcock Woods!!

Front View - Photos courtesy of the owner/agent, Suzan McHugh

Heading to the woods!

Barn.

I think Foxchase is a great subdivision, it has a mix of equestrian and non-equestrian properties, some big, some smaller. It is one of Aikens oldest equestrian neighborhoods so the homes are a little older, but that is part of the charm :) This property has its own swimming pool, but don't forget - there is also a community pool., and a riding ring for the equestrian crowd! The best part about Foxchase - your access to Hitchcock Woods, and your convenience to shopping etc. Seriously - if you don't know what they are - here's a link to an earlier post I did about our beloved woods: Hitchcock Woods http://activerain.com/blogsview/524479/more-than-twice-the-size-of-central-park-

and a link to their website :) http://www.hitchcockwoods.org/ It is beautiful and we truly are blessed to have this right here in our little city. To have your property located at the edge is awesome - direct access to 2100+ acres to trail ride, jump, picnic, and in general enjoy and exercise your horse(s).

Give us a call for more information on this equestrian property - check our website for more pictures: http://www.carolinahorseproperties.com/twinpines/tpines.html

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801. 803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Concert time! Get your tix while you can!!

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 16:08:40 -0800

We are very fortunate to have some great venues in our area - the CSRA! Central Savannah River Area -and it includes the area in/around Aiken SC and Augusta GA. James Brown Arena and Bell Auditorium are both in Augusta and have very active calendars - from our local ice hockey team - Augusta Riverhawks, to the Circus!

Where: James Brown Arena, Augusta GA

When: April 19th 2013

Time: 7:30pm - doors open at 6:30pm

Who!!!!!! Carrie Underwood "The Blown Away Tour"

Tickets: $43.50 -$63.50

Box office info: http://www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com/pages/7/

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801. 803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Downtown Aiken Sidewalk Sale! March 7,8,9, 2013

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 15:51:45 -0800

It's sidewalk sale time!

Where: Downtown Aiken

When: March 7,8,9

Rain or Shine!

Here's a partial list of participating businesses: 3 Monkey's Fine Gifts, Tea Garden Gifts, Lionel Smith Ltd, Aiken Dry Goods, Charlotte's Bridal, Elk Eagle, Equine Divine Gallery J, My Aiken Body, Powercuts Salon & Spa, Re-Fresh....and many more!!

Have fun!!

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801. 803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Harmony Hill in Aiken, SC

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 17:51:16 -0800

They call it Harmony Hill. It's a beautiful equestrian estate built in the style of a European courtyard farmhouse. This property has it ALL! Beautiful interior details and open floor plan with great living spaces for you, with stalls and pastures for your horses!

private gated entrance - - gate located far enough up the driveway that you don't have to worry about your trailer being out in traffic when stopped at the gate!

view from entrance

heated pool, koi pond

looking thru the breezeway to the courtyard

My words cannot do it justice - take a look at the slide show on our website: here's a link http://www.carolinahorseproperties.com/harmony/harmony.html

You can also find us on Facebook!

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

did he say 'snow'?!

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 17:29:37 -0800

Good Evening from Aiken, SC! The weatherman just said there could be a little rain/snowy mix tomorrow night. Be careful out there y'all! It should be more north of us, but you never know! We usually don't get much snow in this area - if you like to play in the snow, it's a great weekend to head to the mountains for some snowy fun :)

Have a good weekend!

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Want to check the gas prices? (Aiken County, SC area)

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 15:58:28 -0800

Pennies add up!

Kent's Korner has a mobile app so you can check for stations near you, prices, etc - it's a great tool :)

Here's a link to the Kent's Korner website: http://kentskorner.com/Home

Look for the mobile app download at the top of the page.

Drive safe!

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home! Come see for yourself. What are you waiting for?!?!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Ave SW - Aiken, SC 29801

803.648.8660

We have what you're looking for!

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 17:17:55 -0800

That's right! Whatver it is you're looking for in a property, I'm sure we have it! Location, location , location - Aiken SC is THE PERFECT location! A few hours to the beach (shore, coast, ocean...whatever you like to call it!), a few hours to the mountains, a few hours to Atlanta, GA... a great central location.

What do you need/want? In town ranch house? We have it. Pecan orchard? We have it! (think about it - retire to SC and grow pecans, earn some extra income!) In the country home with lots of acreage? We have it! In town horse property? We have it! Southside townhome? we have it! Land to build on? We have it! Want a lake/pond view? We have it! Downtown commercial space for your business? We have it! Historic propery? We have it. Something near Hitchcock Woods? We have it!!! New construction? We have it! Horse country acreage? We have it! Give us a call, we're happy to help with your relocation to Aiken, SC.

Visit our website, check out some of the properties that are avaiable: www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Things to do, Aiken SC. 1/26/13-1/28/13

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 10:34:05 -0800

Here's a list of upcoming events and things to do around town - as posted on aikenstandard.com , our local news. I hope you find something fun to do! Other things to do: frisbee golf at Odell Weeks Park!! visit the library and the updated playground behind it! search for treasures at the downtown antique stores! while you are downtown, swing by Aiken Center for the Art--and enjoy the art gallery! so many things to do... have fun and enjoy the sunny weekend :)

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TODAY

Author of “Keowee Valley” Katherine Scott Crawford will be coming to the Aiken County Public Library, 314 Chesterfield St. S.W., today at 3 p.m. Crawford will discuss what she learned about the history of the Cherokee in the Carolinas from her research for this fascinating and romantic historical novel. The Friends of the Library will sell copies of the book for $18.95 after her talk. Go to http:// katherinescottcrawford.com for more information or to preview the book.

Today, the DuPont Planetarium will present “Ancient Sky Lore” at 7 p.m. and Digistar “Laser” Fantasy at 8 p.m. Weather permitting, the observatory, housing the Bechtel telescope, will be open for viewing after each show. Tickets are $4.50 for adults, $2.50 for students grades 4K-12, and $3.50 for seniors. Tickets for Digistar “Laser” Fantasy are $5.50 for adults, $3.50 for students grades 4K-12 and $4.50 for seniors. All USCA faculty, staff and students are $1 for any show. Those with a valid college or military ID will receive a 50 percent discount. Children under 4 are not permitted. To make a reservation, call 641-3654 and leave your name, total number of guests, the date and time you wish to attend and your phone number.

Women In Unity is moving into a larger facility. Women In Unity will be having a two-day grand opening today from 3 to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. Come to 3 Pecan Park in Edgefield to help celebrate.

Steel Magnolia will be performing at the Newberry Opera House, 1201 McKibben St., Newberry, today at 8 p.m. Call the Newberry Opera House Box Office to reserve your tickets at (803) 276-6264 or visit www.newberryoperahouse.com

The Miss Fox Creek Pageant will be held today, at 6 p.m. at the Imperial Theatre in Augusta. This will be a nationally televised event, as MTV’s Emmy Award Winning show “Made” will be filming the pageant. Pageant tickets are now available for purchase from the Imperial Theater Box Office. Visit the Imperial Theater Website or call the box office to purchase your tickets today. You can pay with cash or check at the box office or with a credit card online. Tickets are between $10 to $13 and seating is reserved. Tickets are selling quickly and space is limited.

The South Aiken High School NJROTC Relay for Life team will hold a pancake breakfast at Fatz Café today from 8 to 10 a.m. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased at the door. Relay T-shirts will be sold for $15 and luminaries for $10 to $25. This is a community event.

The Aiken County Public School District, Edgefield County Schools, Therapy Solutions LLC, Cedar Creek West and the Family Y will host a Parent Resource Fair at the Family Y in Graniteville starting at noon today. The Resource Fair will offer learning workshops on a variety of topics including the IEP, behavior management, social skills, transition and more. In addition, families will have access to local agencies that provide services to students with disabilities. Free child care will be provided and coordinated by the school district. Children will be able to jump in the inflatables, build on the LEGO wall and play interactive games with the Xbox and other video gaming systems.

SUNDAY

St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic School will host its first 5K Fun Run/Walk at 2 p.m. on Sunday at Citizens Park. The entry fee is $15, and all proceeds will benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church. To register for the Fun Run/Walk, visit www.active.com/running/aiken-sc/st-marys-inaugural-5k-run-walk-2013. Registration for the event closes on Friday at 11:59 a.m. PST. To learn more, visit www.stmaryschoolaiken.com and www.facebook.com/stmaryschoolaiken.

The Historic Aiken Foundation Awards presentation will be held at the Aiken County Historical Museum on Sunday at 3 p.m.

MONDAY

The next meeting of the Banksia Quilters Society will be Monday at the Aiken County Historical Museum.

Line Dance Class will be held Mondays at 6 p.m. at Palmetto Ballroom. The cost is $5 per person. Call 641-4800 for more information.

The War Between the States Lecture Series will continue at the Aiken County Historical Museum, 433 Newberry St. S.W., on Monday at 7 p.m. David B. Thompson of Limestone College will perform Southern piano music that was played during the Civil War era. Among the pieces that will be featured are “General Lee’s Grand March” and “Major General Hampton’s Quickstep.” On Feb. 4, the speaker will be Charles Hilton. Hilton will tell the story of Confederate currency. The third and last part of this series will be Monday, Feb. 11, when the topic will be, “What happened on that date in 1865?” Kathy Benedetto is scheduled to sing songs of the period. Admission is $5 per person per evening. For more information, call the museum at 642-2015.

The Shepeard Community Blood Center will have a blood drive Monday from noon to 6 p.m. at Mount Vintage, located at 285 Vintage Plantation Drive, North Augusta.

The CSRA Fly Fishers will meet at 7 p.m. on Monday at the Club House of the River Island Community in Evans, Ga. Ben Moore will give a talk on his winter guided trips on the Saluda River, below Lake Murray; on the Savannah River; on the Chattooga River and his summer guiding in western Montana. We will collect membership dues and discuss winter and spring fishing trips for 2013 . For more information, visit www.csraflyfishers.org.

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!

Carolina Real Estate Company

333 Park Avenue SW

Aiken SC 29801

(803)648-8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com find us on facebook!

Congrats to the newest SCDOT Commission!

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 08:24:07 -0800

New SCDOT Commissioner: Local Aiken County resident Chad Ingram was elected last week to serve a s the SCDOT Commissioner for the Second Congressional District. It has been more than two decades since an Aiken County resident served on the SCDOT Commission.

Congrats to Mr. Ingram, we're sure he will represent our district superbly!

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

December Fun -Downtown Aiken. (some November stuff, too!!) LOTS TO DO!

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Sun, 25 Nov 2012 07:54:27 -0800

Here's a list of upcoming events in Downtown Aiken- enjoy!! Have a holly jolly Christmas!

Now thru December 28, 2012 - Aiken Center for the Arts - Tis the Season exhibition. Downtown - Aiken Center for the Arts, 122 Laurens Street.

November 27, 2012 - Aiken Concert Band - Holiday Celebration. At USC-Aiken, Etherridge Center, 471 University Pkwy. 8pm. more info: 803.641.3305

November 30, 2012 & December 1, 2012 - 42nd Annual Christmas Craft Fair - Odell Weeks Activity Center.-Whiskey Road across from Home Depot. Fri: 9am-6pm. Sat: 9am-5pm (Santa will be here on Saturday!) more info 803.642.7631. free parking/free admission.

November 30, December 1, 2,7 & 8, 2012: Miracle on 34th Street. at the URS Center for the Performing Arts, 126 Newberry St. S.W. For more information, call the box office at 648-1438, or visit www.aikencommunityplayhouse.com.

November 30, 2012 - Downtown Tree Lighting Ceremony. 6:30pm, at the intersection of Richland Ave and Laurens Street. Music, Caroling, and SANTA!!

December 6-8, 2012. Gingerbread Contest (Literary Structures) on display at Aiken County Historical Museum and Aiken Center for the Arts. more info: 803.642.2015

December 7-9, 2012. The Nutcracker - at Etherredge Center, USC-Aiken. performed by the Aikcn Civic Ballet. more info: 803.648.5771 shows: 7pm on December 7th and 8th. 2pm on December 9th.

December 8, 2012: A Holly Day, in Downtown Aiken. -- In-store promotions, photos with Santa, door prizes, refreshments, give-aways, entertainment.... Come Downtown and enjoy some holiday shopping!!

December 13, 2012 - A Night of 1000 Lights! Downtown Aiken is aglow with luminaries lining the streets.... enjoy some holiday shopping! Food, fun, festivities, even Santas elves will be there!!

December 13-23, and December 26 & 27, 2012. Christmas in Hopelands. Hopelands Gardens, Whiskey Road, Aiken. 6pm-9:30pm each night! Catch the shuttle at Citizens Park this year! more info: 803.642.7631

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Thanksgiving Day Traditions in Aiken, SC

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 13:13:07 -0800

Looking for something to do Thanksgiving morning --- or maybe you have been part of these events for years and have made it your family tradition as well!

First up: Bloodies & Bagels - (4th annual!) Hosted by the Aiken Land Conservancy, Held at the Aiken Co Historical Museum Newberry/South Boundary . 9am -11am.

Second on the list: After Bloodies and Bagels, continue on into Hitchcock Woods for the annual Blessing of the Hounds. (Aiken Hounds opening meet.... an Aiken Tradition - 99 years and counting!!!) more info on the Blessing can be found here: http://www.aikenstandard.com/article/20121118/AIK0101/121119473/1004/blessing-hunt-celebrating-99-years

Last but not least: One Table. (8th annual!!) Come have Thanksgiving Dinner with the rest of the community, downtown in The Alley. All are welcome!! more info: http://www.onetable.org/

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

Meet The Wishaphants ! Helping the world be bully-free!

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 06:38:02 -0700

A high school classmate of mine is involved in this awesome project - The Wishaphants .

These are charactors to help children deal with real life issues such as bullying, grief, good health and nutrition,etc... It takes a village! Come be part of that village. We need to start with the children, the world has enough bullies - we don't need any more. The children are OUR future!! Let's help create a bully free world. It can be done - The Wishaphants can help it to happen. I believe!!

Photo used with permission of The Wishaphant Team!

Here's a link to learn more and learn how you can help: http://www.indiegogo.com/wishaphants

and a direct link to their website: http://www.wishaphants.com/

Please share this - the children need our help. Too many are being bullied - we need to stop it. Bullying hurts at any age - it comes in all different forms -and all shapes and sizes. We want our children to be happy, not sad.

Thanks!

Kara

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

-when you call, be sure to let me know you saw my blog! thanks :)

The Wishaphants helping put an end to bullying....

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 19:08:08 -0700

A high school classmate of mine is involved in this awesome project - The Wishaphants .

Photo used with permission of The Wishaphant Team!

Here's a link to learn more and learn how you can help: http://www.indiegogo.com/wishaphants

and a direct link to their website: http://www.wishaphants.com/

Thanks!

Kara

---------------------

I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

-when you call, be sure to let me know you saw my blog! thanks :)

Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame & Museum

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Sat, 20 Oct 2012 13:38:56 -0700

What: Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame & Museum

Where: 135 Dupree Place (inside historic Hopelands Gardens) Aiken, SC

Hours: September - May: Tues -Fri 2-5pm, Sat: 10-5pm, Sun 2-5pm

June - August: Saturday: 10-5pm, Sunday 2-5pm

This museum celebrates the racing tradition and Aikens role in it. 39 champion thoroughbreds - yes 39!!, have trained here and each have been immortalized in the Hall of Fame. Flat racers and steeplechase horses, from 1942-present, are featured along with photos, trophies and other memorabilia highlighting the careers of these famous race horses.

Stop by and check it out sometime! Very cool!!

Aiken Fall Steeplechase -- the chase is on!!

More info: 803-642-7631 halloffame@cityofaikensc.gov www.aikenracinghalloffame.com www.AikenIs.com

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

-when you call, be sure to let me know you saw my blog! thanks :)

Flags at half-staff through sundown September 16, 2012.

Kara Casamassina, "Boomers and beyond..." (The Carolina Real Estate Company) — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 04:53:02 -0700

If you fly our Flag, you have to follow the orders and other rules of the Flag. Period!

Half-staff Flag observance.

September 12, 2012.

The President has issued a proclamation as a mark
of respect for the memory of John Christopher
Stevens, United States Ambassador to Libya, and
American personnel killed in the senseless attack
on our diplomatic facility in Benghazi, and has
directed that the flag of the United States shall
be flown at half-staff until sunset, September 16,
2012.

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I wasn't born here but Aiken feels like home. Come see for yourself! What are you waiting for?!!

Give us a call when you're ready to call Aiken home, too!

Carolina Real Estate Company

Charles Blackburn, BIC

333 Park Avenue SW - Aiken SC. 29801.

803.648.8660

www.CarolinaHorseProperties.com

-when you call, be sure to let me know you saw my blog! thanks :)