Ninety Six, SC

2012-01-25T10:40:00.003-05:00

2012 started with a bang for your Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce with our very successful 1st annual Pageant and Prom Formal Wear Consignment Sale. Our thanks to all who contributed and participated.

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VALENTINE DOOR DECORATING CONTEST
February 1st - February 14th

Every school, business and home (with a 96, SC address) may enter! Decorate and light up your door in celebration of St Valentine's Day. There will be prizes awarded. Entry fee is $10 per door with proceeds going towards the 4th Annual Festival of Stars and Fireworks celebration! ***This is a fund-raiser for the 2012 Festival of Stars Fireworks & Independence Celebration!***

Contact Margie Blalock at the Ninety Six Visitor Center.

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Fathers, have you made your Valentine's plans yet? Saturday, February 11th we will be sponsoring our 2nd annual Father-Daughter Valentine Dance in the Historic 96 Depot from 7:00-9:00 pm. There will be refreshments and music provided as well as commemorative pictures.
Contact Chairperson Debbie Caron @ 543-4576 or e-mail her at
carondebbie@yahoo.com

Husbands, have you considered a unique Valentine's surprise for your bride? Why not treat her to a very special night at the Kinard House Bed and Breakfast in Ninety Six? Karen and Lee Breasbois are your Innkeepers and provide special packages to satisfy the most discriminating guests.

For details call (864) 543-2286 or view the web site

www.kinardhouse.org

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Plans are under way for a busy year supporting our members and helping to grow our Town of Ninety Six. You will be hearing more about this shortly and will probably be asked to participate.

To paraphrase our President John F. Kennedy, "Ask not what your Chamber can do for you, ask what you can do for your Chamber." Or, as granny said, "You only get out of something what you first put into it."

Your involvement starts with your active participation in the Chamber. Applications are available by following this link: Ninety Six Chamber Membership

2012-01-10T10:18:00.002-05:00

Happy 2012!!!

We're hoping that your holidays were good for you and that you are looking forward to this new year of 2012 with as much anticipation as is your Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce.
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Get Fit For The New Year!!!
*Zumba, Cardio Kickboxing, Cardio Weights, Etc.*
Studio 96 LLC is offering pay by class as well as monthly memberships.
www.studio96fitness.com
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Tina's Hilltop Cafe is now open Tuesday through Saturday
from 6:00a.m. - 2:00p.m. Tina also is serving a
Sunday Lunch Buffet from 11:00 - 3:00.

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Fathers, have you considered a really special date this Valentines? How about a dance date with your daughter? Saturday, February 11th we will be sponsoring our 2nd annual Father-Daughter Valentine Dance in the Historic 96 Depot from 7:00-9:00 pm. There will be refreshments and music provided by DJ Pat Patterson from Sunny 103.5.
Contact Chairperson Debbie Caron @ 543-4576 or e-mail her at
carondebbie@yahoo.com
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Roland and Melody McInville who so generously supported the Chamber for many years as Ro-Mac Trophys and Signs have retired. We welcome Russell and Tara Scott, who are the new owners, and David Scott, the manager. Remember Ro-Mac Trophys and Signs for all your trophy

and signage needs.

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This past Saturday the Chamber's Directors met and discussed the Chamber's position in our Town of Ninety Six; what roles we should play; and what our Mission should really be. In doing so, we determined that "The Chamber’s Mission is to assist in the development of new and support of existing businesses and industries. “Honoring the past….planning for the future.” “Working together we can make it happen.'”

Our goals for the following year are to improve our communication, involvement and support of our membership, our Town and our community at large. We we invite you to be a part of this by partnering with the Chamber for the year 2012. Applications are available by following this link: Ninety Six Chamber Membership
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Have you heard about TRUE BLUE? Well, we are excited to spread the word!!!!

True Blue^®
^{is a team effort between the Ninety‐Six Chamber of Commerce and BlueCross that is only available to Chamber members. True Blue offers several options, including Business True BlueSM for the most choice and flexibility; Business True BlueSM Value Plans, which are priced 15–30 percent below our standard plans; and Personal True BlueSM, an individual plan exclusively for Chamber members.Contact the fine folks at David Crotts & Asscociates (223-8788) to see if TRUE BLUE is for you.}

2011-12-12T10:50:00.003-05:00

Ok, folks, I know that I said I was going to leave you alone until next year, but..............So much has been happening in the last week that I wanted to bring you up to date. We had Ribbon Cuttings:

Our First Was at Tina's Hilltop Cafe at the intersection of Hwy 246S and Wilson Bridge Rd. Tina Collins has only been open a week, but she's gratified with her acceptance and is expanding to serve Lunch as well as Breakfast.

Sherry Manley operates The Hen House Thursdays and Fridays from 10:00 - 6:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 - 4:00 p.m. She's got everything from Antique Furniture to Chocolate Covered Pretzels.

.

Patricia "Tricia" Partlow is a former 96 Wildcat Drum Majorette who wears her Wildcat Colors Proudly as the owner of the 5 Star Cutz Barbershop. She's located at 3508 Hwy 246S and no appointments are necessary. You can, however, give her a call @ 330-0294.

Have you heard about TRUE BLUE? Well, we are excited to spread the word!!!!

True Blue^®

^{is a team effort between the Ninety‐Six Chamber of Commerce and BlueCross that is only available to Chamber members. True Blue offers several options, including Business True BlueSM for the most choice and flexibility; Business True BlueSM Value Plans, which are priced 15–30 percent below our standard plans; and Personal True BlueSM, an individual plan exclusively for Chamber members.}

^{With this offering of more choice for your insurance needs, your Chamber membership just got more valuable.}

^{Speaking of Membership, Diane is mailing out renewal forms this week. You don't need to wait, though. Go to}^{www.96chamberofcommerce.com}^{and click on the forms and applications tab. You will a Membership form there and an info sheet on True Blue®.}

^{Christmas is the time to do some reflecting and an opportunity to really count your blessings. Reflecting back, this has been a pretty good year. Diane and I have been blessed with three, yes three, great grandchildren and, this next weekend, we expect to have all of our children, grandchildren and}

^{great grandchildren together for a Christmas gathering. We are}

^{going to have a Merry Christmas and we wish you one as well.}

2011-12-07T09:34:00.003-05:00

What a great turnout we had for our Christmas Parade and Lunch w/ Santa this past Saturday, December 3rd. There are some really great pictures to share and here are a couple of links:

https://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/media/set/?set=a.10150498485375499.422344.753375498&type=3

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2585761199875.135818.1129885088&type=3#!/media/set/?set=a.2585761199875.135818.1129885088&type=3

Monday night at our Board Meeting, Parade Co-chair, Cathy Smith presented trophies to our Theme Winners:

Best Civic Group - Cub Scout Pack 96

Best Industry/Commercial Entry - Sheri's Dog Zone

Best Recreational Vehicle - Jeremy Davis

Best Religious Theme - Kinard UMC

Best Performing Group - Ninety Six Marching Band

Best Adaptation of Theme - American Legion Post 103

Best Vehicle Other Entry - Little Miss Merry Christmas Hannah Murray.

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We have a busy week ahead.......

This morning @ 11:00 we are holding a Ribbon Cutting for

Tina's Hilltop Cafe.

Tomorrow, Thursday the 8th.....we are holding a Ribbon Cutting @ 11:30 for 5 Star Cutz which will be followed by a Ribbon Cutting

for The Hen House.

Saturday is our Merchants Open House and the Annual High Grove

Christmas Gathering from 10:00 - 4:00.

Save Gas and Find Treasures by Shopping in 96

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This will be the last posting of the Blog until the 2012.

We want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a very

Happy New Year!!

2011-11-28T11:41:00.002-05:00

Things have been a wee bit busy for the past few weeks and I apologize for not getting the Blog News out sooner. We had our Annual Dinner on Thursday, the 17th and announced our newest benefit for Chamber members; Business True Blue offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina through David A. Crotts & Associates. Contact Rufus Mays @ (864) 223-8788 to discuss the special options only offered to our Chamber membership.

Our officers for the coming year have been elected and we are pleased to announce that Stacey Juergens has agreed to serve as your President. Dr. Ben Davis will serve as Vice-president, Nancy Novak as

Co-treasurer and Diane Quinn as Secretary Treasurer.

President Quinn and President Elect Juergens

Handing Out Door Prizes

NEWS, NEWS, NEWS...........

Cambridge Collectibles, Antiques and Furniture

has opened in the location previously occupied

by The Ragpicker of Ninety Six next door to

Migs. Hours are Thursday and Friday

from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and

Saturday from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Mayor Arvest Turner welcomes Tim Stewart of

Cambridge Collectibles, Antiques and Furniture to

Main Street Ninety Six.

Thanksgiving is behind us and we have our sights set on Christmas. This Saturday, December 3 at 11:00 a.m., is the Santa Express Christmas Parade sponsored by The Ninety Six Chamber.

This year the parade will line up on West Main, go North on Church Street and turn east on 34 past the Depot and Visitor Center. At Saluda Street the parade will proceed South past our new Fire Department to State Street where it will turn to the right and break up at the Ninety Six Primary School.

The parade will be followed by Lunch and Pictures w/ Santa at the Historic Ninety Six Depot.

(We'll have Burger King, Potato Chips and a Drink for $3.00.)

Call Diane @ 543-2047 or 389-0667 for reservations.

Saturday, December 10th our participating Ninety Six Merchants invite you to wander up and down Cambridge and Main Streets and drop in and visit. They're encouraging you to "Shop Local" with extra specials and refreshments.
While you're wandering, be sure to visit the Historic Ninety Six Depot for the Second Annual High Grove Christmas Gathering.

2011-10-30T12:37:00.004-04:00

Ninety Six was busy this past week.
Thursday evening we held our Meet The Candidates at the Historic Ninety Six Depot. We were impressed that each candidate spoke of the necessity for cooperation and communication between the Town and the organizations and associations currently serving the Town. Polls open @ 7:00a.m. Tuesday, November 8. Make your voice heard by casting your vote.

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The 96MVNA 1st Annual Fall Townwide Yard Sale was held on Saturday and the threat of inclement weather did not slow down the "die hards" who attended. There were great bargains to be had and Gayle Ostrowski managed to snap this photo of one of the happiest
shoppers of the day.

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Masquerade on Main drew huge crowds to Main Street to enjoy the giant slide, "Haunted Halls"sponsored by the Hwy 34 and Town of 96 Fire Departments', the costume contest as well as dance and wrestling exhibitions. Beginning at 6:00, people were lined up for the The Second Annual History and Ghost Walk and the tours continued past midnight.

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Make your plans now to attend our Annual Dinner, Thursday, November 17th at Star Fort Golf Club.
$14.95 per person
(A cash bar will be available)

WE WILL HAVE A MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT

regarding a great new Chamber Benefit available only for our members. RSVP to Diane now, seating is limited.
96chamber@gmail.com

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WELCOME: The Ninety Six Chamber welcomes one of our newest members; Deer Creek Golf, a full service practice facility on Hwy 246S.

After you get your practice in, play a round or two at one of the challenging courses offered by our members which will give you an opportunity to sharpen up your game:

The Golf Club At Star Fort

Grand Harbor Golf & Yacht Club

The Links At Stoney Point

2011-10-17T20:21:00.000-04:00

Before anything else, I want to say a very special "Thank You" to Fortner's Home Center and Real Estate for hosting our Fall Business After Hours.

We had a great turnout and wonderful refreshments. Thanks also to

The Town of Ninety Six, LasCascadas, The Kinard House and

the Mary Ann Smith Insurance Agency for their generousity

in supplying our Door Prizes.

* * * * * * * *

BULLETIN

We have just been notified that the Historic Ninety Six Depot, officially

the Southern Railway Depot, has been listed on the National

Register of Historic Places effective October 6th, 2011.

We are greatful for the dedicated effort of Charles Harts,

our Former Mayor and retired Executive Director of

Historic 96 Development Association.

* * * * * * * *

Now, lots of "goings on" going on in Ninety Six that you need

to make plans for:

This next Thursday, October 27th at 6:00 p.m., the Chamber will host a meet the candidates forum at the Historic Ninety Six Depot. This forum is for all candidates for Public Office in the upcoming Ninety Six elections. Our County Councilman Patrick Moody has agreed to Moderate.

* * * * * * * *

Saturday, October 29th will be a very busy day in Historic Ninety Six. The day will start with our 1st Annual Fall Townwide Yard Sale. This sale is being sponsored by the

96 Mill Village Neighborhood Association.

That afternoon the Town of Ninety Six will hold it 2nd Annual Masquerade on Main which will be followed by the

extremely popular History and Ghost Walk.

(Rental Spaces for the Townwide Yard Sale and Masquerade on Main as well as Tickets for the History and Ghost Walk are on sale at the 96 Visitor Center.

See Margie, Diane or Gayle.)

* * * * * * * *

Saturday, November 5th is the date for the Town of Ninety Six sponsored 1st Annual Ninety Six Hall of Fame. We understand that the inaugural class of recipients is quite

impressive and extensive.

* * * * * * * *

Tuesday, November 8 is election day for the

Town of Ninety Six. You heard your candidates at the forum now make your voice heard.

* * * * * * * *

Saturday, November 12 the GCSO, 96PD, 96MVNA, The Town of Ninety Six and the 96 Chamber are sponsoring a Drug Awareness Program at the Visitor Center at 10:00 a.m. We are promised that this will be an

exceptionally informative program.

* * * * * * * *

Thursday, November 17th. Annual Dinner for your Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce. We'll be posting

complete information shortly.

2011-09-27T11:26:00.007-04:00

Last Thursday evening over fifty people gathered at the East Main Coffee Company for a very educational program sponsored by the East Main Coffee Company and the Ninety Six Police Department. Chief Robert Shingler introduced us to substances of abuse that are here in Ninety Six and that our children and grandchildren are being exposed to or are using.

Our days and nights are beginning to cool and some of our beautiful fall colors are headed our way. We've had a few drops of rain in the Ninety Six area; nothing like the rains in Columbia and in the up-state, but perhaps some of it will still come our way and help to recharge our beautiful Lake Greenwood. Life in the Greater Ninety Six area is good.

There's a lot happening in our little Town of Ninety Six in the next few days and weeks:

Thursday, September 29th - Business After Hours - 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. @ Fortner's Home Center and Realty
Saturday, October 8th - Autumn Candlelight Tour at the Ninety Six National Historic Site. Guided tours of the candlelit village and battlefield of Old Ninety Six will begin at 7:00 p.m. and leave every 10 minutes; the last tour leaves at 8:20 p.m. (Wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight.)
Thursday, October 27th - Meet The Candidates Town Hall Forum - 6:00 p.m. @ The Historic Ninety Six Depot. The Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce will be hosting an opportunity for Ninety Six citizens to meet the candidates who are running for office in the upcoming Ninety Six Municipal Election.
Saturday, October 29th - Fall Townwide Yard Sale - 7:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. You enjoyed the Spring Yard Sale sponsored by Historic 96 Development Association and this one, sponsored by the Ninety Six Mill Village Association, promises to be just as good.
Saturday, October 29th - 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Scarecrows and Goblins, Witches and Princesses abound at Masquerade on Main in Historic Downtown Ninety Six.
Saturday, October 29th - 6:00 p.m. until - History and Ghost Walk through the Town and Historic Neighborhoods of Ninety Six. Approximately a one mile walk. (Wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight.)

2011-09-15T11:14:00.000-04:00

The LAPTOP IS JUST NOT QUITE THE SAME

Yesterday, September 14, 2011 was a sad day for our Town of Ninety Six, SC. The Star & Beacon, our newspaper which has been published on a weekly basis every Wednesday for as long as many of us can remember,

was laid to rest as Vol. 29, No. 46.

A victim of the times, The Star & Beacon, being a hard copy weekly newspaper, was not able to compete with newer media on-line

sources providing "instant news."

What it did provide, and which will be greatly missed, were the articles and columns written with such sensitivity, insight and, at times humor, by the Editor and writer David Morgan. We'll also miss the columns written by locals Noahleen Berry, Karen Inglese, Dr. Jerry D. Wilson and others.

Finally, there's just something special about sitting on the porch, cup

of coffee nearby, cat curled up at your feet while you read the

weekly "Fish Wrapper," that we're really going to miss.

The laptop is just not quite the same.

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The weather's cooling down and election season is now officialy starting to heat up around Ninety Six. The Ninety Six Municipal election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 8th.

Mayor Arvest Turner is up for re-election and will be opposed by write-in candidate Todd Mullinax who currently sits on the Ninety Six Town Council.
Ward 1 - Mickey Goodman is running unopposed to fill the Town Council seat which was held by his wife, Mary Ann Goodman. Mrs. Goodman vacated the seat when she accepted the Town Clerk position.
Ward 2 - Tommy Balchin is running unopposed for this seat currently held by Harold Forister.
Ward 3 - Is currently held by Todd Mullinax who has two years left on his term.
Ward 4 - Current Council Member Steve Turner is up for re-election and will be opposed by Greg "Chip" Griffin.
Ward 5 - Is currently held by Todd Reeves who has two years left on his term.
Ward 6 - Current Council Member Elliott Richardson is up for re-election and will be opposed by Joan Butler.

To help everyone better understand the candidates ideas and positions on matters effecting our Town, the Chamber is considering hosting a Meet & Greet the Candidates in October. We have tentatively scheduled this for Thursday, October 27th. We would allow each candidate the opportunity to briefly introduce themselves. This should be followed by a question/answer session with questions directed from the floor. I would expect that this Meet & Greet should begin at 6:oo p.m. and run no more than 2 hours.

There's a lot of undercurrent which we've heard over the years that "things aren't being done right in Ninety Six." If you aren't involved; that's called "sour grapes." Now is your chance to become involved. If you don't educate yourselves and don't register and/or don't vote, don't complain.

2011-09-01T22:40:00.001-04:00

Well, there was a bump or two in the road, but East Main Coffee Company is up and running. Diane and I stopped in after Dr. appointments

and general running around and had some really great

ice cream. (The sugar free Butter Pecan is really

great either in a cone or a cup.) Rayne and

David are doing some experimenting and

the Double Chocolate Shake made w/

chocolate ice cream & chocolate

syrup sounded absolutely

decadent.

Our thanks to Fortner's Hardware & Realty for their

support of the Chamber, the Ninety Six Mill Village Association, Historic Ninety Six Development Associatiion and the Town of Ninety Six. In recognition of their help and support, the Ninety Six Chamber has chosen Fortner's Hardware & Realty as the Business of the Month for September, 2011.

Plan ahead folks............Thursday, September 22 your Chamber's

fall Business After Hours will be held at Fortner's from 5:30 - 7:00 pm.

This is a great opportunity to network with your fellow

Chamber members and officers. There will be refreshments

and some really great door prizes. We'll see you there.

Shortly you will be receiving packets asking you to help choose Directors

to serve your Chamber. Yes, this is YOUR CHAMBER and we

are here to serve you, have re-dedicated ourselves to serving

you and need your input. You can best begin by helping to choose

your leadership. Please, complete the forms you will be sent and

return them in the self addressed envelopes. We'll keep you

informed.

Hey, did you take in Cateecheefest? The Ninety Six Town Park was turned into an Indian encampment for a day on Saturday, August 27th.

It was a great day to celebrate our area's Native American Heritage, hear some great stories, be exposed to some wonderful Native American Dancing, Drumming and Costumes.

Oh, there's one more date we want you to save.........Plan ahead now to spend

some time Saturday, October 8, at the Ninety Six National Historic

Site at Star Fort. Among other things, that's the day they will

be conducting their Candlelight Tours. We'll have more

information as the time gets closer, but save the date!!

2011-08-22T10:19:00.000-04:00

We may have seen the last of the 100 degree days for this year, but do the "Rain Dance." The temperatures are dropping but so is our beautiful Lake Greenwood. We've got cracks in our yard that a puppy could get trapped in.

Schools are back in session and our families are having to settle into an, in some cases, unfamiliar routine; fighting for the bathroom with the kids early in the morning. (I know that I found that it took my girls a whole lot of time in front of the mirror.)

Football games will be starting soon and we'll have those "Friday Night Lights." We'll also be taking trips to Clemson, Columbia and Charlotte and having Tailgate Parties. Be sure to check out the Tailgate Specials offered by our local merchants.

Did you know that the EAST MAIN COFFEE COMPANY will be open this week? We spoke with Rayne Adams and she's doing a few final "touch ups" and plans on opening Tuesday, the 23rd. Coffee, sweets, smoothies, ice creams, etc. Her hours will be 7:00 am - 7:00 pm Tuesday - Thursday and 7:00 am - 9:00 pm Friday and Saturday. Rayne's going to Church on Sundays and rest on Mondays.

CATEECHEE FEST is this Saturday in the Ninety Six Town Park. Celebrating our Native American Heritage. Native music, dancing, drumming, flute, story telling, demonstrations, etc. Also for the health enthusiasts a 1mile walk and a 9.6k run. There will be the Bungee Trampoline, Food, Crafters and Indian jewelry all day!

The Blood Connection has moved to it's new location:
341 Old Abbeville Highway, Greenwood, SC 29649
SITE & APPOINTMENTS:
864.227.8333
CENTER HOURS:
Monday – Friday: 8 am to 6 pm
Saturday – Sunday: 7 am to 5 pm

On Tuesday, September 6th, the HWY 34 Fire Department is putting on a Blood Drive from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm. All who donate will be put into a drawing for a $25.00 Gift Card and 4 Movie Tickets. Give Life!!!

Mark Your Calendar for Thursday, September 22nd. Debbie Fortner of Fortner's Hardware and Realty will be hosting our Fall Business After Hours from 5:30 pm 'til 7:00 pm at their location on Hwy 246. Folks, I'm in there just about once a week.........it's really handy, they've got a great selection of those little "gotta have's," and it's closer than running to the big box. Give them a try!

Remember, this Blog will be published roughly twice a month for the membership and friends of the Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce. If you have something that you would like entered, please e-mail your submission to: corky_q@hotmail.com.

2011-08-01T11:35:00.003-04:00

Happy August........The month of July is past and we can look back at some very successful events here in Ninety Six.

The 3rd Annual Festival of Stars was a huge success.
We "Stuffed The Bus" for Ninety Six District 52 Schools
I understand that we had a highly successful INT Wakeboard Event on Lake Greenwood the weekend of the 23rd and 24th.

This month some will experience the pride and the emptiness we feel when our children head off (back) to school. As you prepare for this, don't forget to support your Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce members. Also, when on the road, respect those school buses and drive safely.

Ladies, do you need a wee bit of help? Studio 96 is now open on Saluda Street. Linda Tafta and her staff guarantee to "get you in shape." They've got everything from Cardio Training to Self Defense.

East Main Coffee Company, operated by Rayne Adams, is an eclectic Coffee House that will be opening very shortly in the former location of Homemade Genius. There will be a variety of coffees and sweet treats such as muffins, breads, cup cakes, milk shakes, smoothies, etc. to satisfy the taste of the most discriminating. And, to top it off, entertainment ranging from Rock to Country and Metal to Acoustic!

Hours of operation will be:

Tuesday thru Thursday - 7:00 a.m. 'til 7:00 p.m.

Friday and Saturday - 7:00 a.m. 'til 9:00 p.m.

Closed on Sunday and Monday

Look for the Grand Opening within the next two weeks.

Remember the Spring of 2010? That was when the Town of Ninety Six sponsored the Cateechee Fest to honor our Native American Heritage.

It was so well received that Margie Blalock, the Event Coordinator for the Town of Ninety Six, has announced that Cateechee Fest 2011 will be held Saturday, August 27th from 4:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. in the

Ninety Six Town Park. There will also be a 5K Candlelight Run.

Vendor Applications and Entry Forms for the Run are available at the

Ninety Six Visitor Center.

This blog is meant to enlighten the membership and friends of the Ninety Six Chamber. The next of these blogs should be out on or about the 15th of the month. Do you have news of interest to share? If you do, send it to me @ corky_q@hotmail.com.

2011-07-11T10:01:00.000-04:00

The 3rd Annual Ninety Six Festival of Stars is now behind us. Though I know that I cannot include everyone who has assisted; I specifically want to mention the following who have been instrumental in growing our Festival:

Margie Blalock and Stacey Juergens who had the initial vision.
Mayor Arvest Turner who's initial support was so instrumental.
Members of Greenwood County Council Patrick Moody, Rhett Dominick and Mark Allison, all who have been supportive.
Greenwood County Park's and Recreation Director Tripp May who's ball field we have used for the fireworks launch.
The Joseph Lincoln Tolbert, SR. Family, LLC for their generosity in allowing the use of their land between Cross Street and Hwy 34.
Kenneth Younce and his staff. They met the challenge and always made sure that the Town of Ninety Six "stood tall" for our out of town guests.
Police Chief Robert Shingler and Fire Chief Neal Lomax for their assistance and support throughout.
The Member Businesses and Friends of the Chamber who donated their time, their effort and, in many cases, their financial support.

What a great job was done by so many wonderful volunteers and sponsors to help us make this Festival the attraction it has grown to be. Thank you one and all.

2011-06-20T11:21:00.002-04:00

The Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that the 246 Army Band, South Carolina National Guard will provide a Concert of patriotic, Jazz and pop music to open the 3rd Annual Festival of Stars. They will perform in the Ninety Six Town Park at 4:30pm, Friday, July 1st.

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The Taste of Ninety Six Cookbooks are on sale now. Over 300 recipes taste tested and provided by some of Ninety Six's greatest cooks. These are beautiful hardcover books and will make great gifts.

They are available for only $15.00 at the 96 Visitor Center, Town Hall, The Star and Beacon and The Ragpicker. Proceeds from the sale of these books go to support the projects of the Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce.

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The Festival of Stars Photo Contest is underway and the entries are on exhibit in the Ninety Six Visitor Center. We have some really great entries from some very talented photographers. Stop by and while you're here, vote for your favorite.

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Haven't you always wanted your child to be a star? Saturday morning, July 2nd, you can. Enter you child, up to age 18, in the Ninety Six Has Talent show. It will be on the 2nd stage in the Town Park immediately after the Parade.

Speaking of Parades; you can be in it. Wear your Red, White and Blue, bring your Golf Cart, Little Red Wagon, Bicycle, or just come and walk. The Parade lines up on Main Street behind the Depot at 9:15 am.

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We're going to have entertainment throughout the Festival this year. Following the 246 Army Band Concert, the activity moves to Historic Downtown Ninety Six for our Rock "N" Roll Cruisers Cruise In and Street Dance featuring Shag Attack.

Saturday, beginning at 10:30am we have two stages going in the Town Park. There's a variety of music for you to enjoy from Gospel to Country to Blue Grass. Then at 6:00 we'll bring on the Dave and Joe Show followed by our headliners, THE OUT OF TOWNERS BAND.

Fireworks will start at approximately 9:45. Be There!!!

2011-06-14T19:55:00.005-04:00

The countdown is on for our 3rd Annual Festival of Stars. We'll open the festivities on Friday, July 1st with a live remote. Pat Patterson of Sunny 103.5 will start us off with a really "Large Time" from 4:30 - 6:30pm. The Rock "N" Roll Cruisers will be on hand to show off their classic cars and at 6:30 we have our opening ceremonies. Our reigning Miss Festival of Stars and her court will be on hand; we'll have Shag Attack playing your favorite shaggin' tunes and Big Al Davis is setting up a childrens' fun zone to keep the younger set occupied. We'll also have 96 Scout Troop 53 who will conduct our Flag Retirement. This is a very moving ceremony which is performed at dusk.

Saturday is a day filled with family oriented fun. A "y'all come" parade is scheduled at 10:00. Enter your decorated little red wagons, bicycles, golf carts, etc. We're gonna have the Saluda Shrine Club Hillbillies and the 96 4H Club Horse Team. Contact Diane @ 543-2047 to be assigned a free parade entry number.

We have Craft and Food vendors who have something for everyone. 96 Has Talent and we're going to showcase it beginning at 10:30. Two stages are going to be set up and we'll start with the 96 Pentacostal Holiness Church Choir. We have a great line-up to follow until when, at 6:00, we'll showcase The Dave and Joe Show who lead in to The Out of Towners Band. They'll take a break at about 9:30 for the LARGEST FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA IN THE LAKELANDS and then return long enough to wish you a Very Happy and Safe Independance Day.

The H96DA Farmer's Market is open each Thursday through August from 7:00 - 12:00 noon at the Historic Ninety Six Depot.
Also, the Certified SC Grown Produce Stand is now open
Fridays and Saturdays from 3:00 - 7:00pm.

2011-06-06T10:41:00.007-04:00

The weather's getting warmer (actually quite hot) and so are things heating up for the 3rd Annual Festival of Stars right here in Ninety Six.

Did you know..........Thunder Over Thurmond has been cancelled for this year? It is sad when an annual event which has brought so much attention to an area is cancelled.

Your Ninety Six Chamber is so very grateful for the many who give towards the success of the Festival of Stars. We have four; count them, yep, it's four, weeks to go before the Festival and we're now just within $6000 of our goal. The show will go on!!!

Volunteers Needed

We are looking for "a few good people" to assist throughout the Festival. We need willing workers to assist with Parade line-up, at the Chamber Booth, at the 96 Has Talent Show, with the entertainment at the two stages, at the "Handicapped" Parking area and with a myriad of other little "chores for which we just do not have enough hands."

Got A Bush Hog or Two?

We have an approximate 14 acre field (The Joseph Lincoln Tolbert, Sr Family property,) that we need to bush hog within the next two weeks. We need to do this soon and then we will mow it with finish mowers just prior to the Festival. Contact Allen Werts @ 910-0667 if you can assist with this project.

Justus Builders Antes Up

Our thanks to Donny Justus and Justus Builders. Donny is providing

the Comfort Stations for this year's Festival. He will have six (including

handicapped accessible) delivered to the Town Park. Thank you Donny for your gracious support.
The Out Of Towners Band

Want a preview of what's to come?

Saturday, June 11, The Out Of Towners Band
will be playing at The Dock on Lake Greenwood.

2011-05-23T20:54:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to our Chamber Secretary, Diane Quinn. She has been released by her surgeon and her physical therapist and two weeks ago she walked the Live Your Life Well one mile walk. Congratulations also to
Cathy Smith of Chaney's Heating and Cooling for her devotion and dedication to the Town of Ninety Six and Mental Health America.
*****************
Festival of Stars Update!!!!

The Rock & Roll Cruisers will be with us on Friday night, July 1st.

Come on out and see these great cars in downtown Ninety Six right in

front of Migs. Sunny 103.5 FM and the inimitable Pat Patterson will be

with us for a live remote from 4:30 - 6:30pm. Come on out and have a really

"Large Time." Be sure to stick around, we've got "Shag Attack" playing

in the Gazebo until 10:30. Bring your old, tired, American Flags. The Boy Scouts will hold a very impressive Flag Retirement Ceremony at Dusk to retire those flags in a very proper manner.

**************

Saturday, right after the "everyone's invited to participate" parade, really great things start happening in our Town Park. We've got the inaugural

Ninety Six Has Got Talent from 11:00-1:00. Applications can be downloaded by going to www.96chamberofcommerce.com. They will

also be distributed to students in District 52 and are available at the

Ninety Six Visitor Center.

***************

Staycation In Ninety Six This Memorial Day

COUNTRY TO THE BONE

Saturday, May28th

11am - 10:30pm

BOILED PEANUTS, BBQ, LIVE MUSIC, INFLATABLES FOR THE CHILDREN, FACE PAINTING, COTTON CANDY, ROCK COLLECTING AND MORE!!!!!!!!

Paying tribute to Country Music greats: Conway Twitty, Loretta Lynn, The Judd’s, Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, George Jones, Elvis and more!!!!!!!!

Entertainment all day long and then..............

8:00pm Our Own South Carolina's

DAVID COOLER

Two-time Carolina Music Award Male Vocalist of the year recipient.

See You There!!!!!

2011-05-09T11:52:00.003-04:00

Wow, what a weekend we enjoyed. The Town Wide Yard Sale which was sponsored by the Historic Ninety Six Development Association was a huge success. The weather was great and the town was busting at the seams from one end to the other with people buying everything from smoked turkey legs to chow-chow, cookbooks to stoves, benches to brooms and potted plants to golf clubs.

*************

Speaking of golf clubs, The Golf Club At Star Fort was host to a really
great "Captain's Choice" golf tournament Saturday afternoon. The
tournament was to raise funds to support the Siloam Baptist
Church's Mission Programs.
Your correspondent "played" in the tournament and I want
everyone to know what great shape the course was in.

Tommy Pendley and his staff are to be congratulated.
Tommy's got some really great promotions going on this spring.
Get out and play a round at The Golf Club At Star Fort.

*************

Have you had a taste of 96? Our "A Taste of 96" cookbooks are now
available at The Ninety Six Visitor Center, The Star & Beacon
and The Ragpicker.

The book contain recipes dating back to The American Revolution
in addition to Ninety Six trivia and pictures.
They make great gifts (we sold a lot at the Town Wide Yard Sale
as Mother's Day gifts,) and they're only $15.00 each.

**************

When you next see Diane, congratulate her on being a Great Granny.

Baby Jackson Marshal Shirah was born April 27th in Brunswick,

GA. Great Granny went down to visit with Granddaughter Jami

this weekend and was able to hold young Jackson and

begin spoiling him.

************
Don't forget..........This Saturday it's the Live Your Life Well 5K Bell Run which will be run through a good portion of Ninety Six. There will be some streets, trails and paths.
Contact Cathy Smith at Chaney's Heating and Cooling, 543-3436.

2011-05-03T20:51:00.000-04:00

The Ragpicker in 96, a business that has supported our Chamber and works diligently to support our Town and our Chamber is our Business of The Month for May. Sadly, we also announce that they are leaving our "Downtown" Ninety Six. As many are aware, Mary and Tammy have had two locations; one in Hodges and the second in Ninety Six. Circumstances have made it necessary to move from the Hodges location and the Ninety Six location is not able to absorb the vendors who have supported the Hodges store. Therefore, Mary and Tammy have leased a location on South Main in Greenwood that has sufficient space to accommodate their vendors. Mary is a valued member of our Ninety Six Chamber Board and while we mourn that they are leaving their current location, we are grateful that their intention is to continue to work with and serve the Town of Ninety Six.

****************

The Ninety Six Chamber Cookbooks have been delivered by the publisher and now available for delivery. Folks, these cookbooks contain recipes from your grandmothers, mothers, aunts, cousins and sisters. The will be a great gift for Mother's Day or any occasion. $15.00 is a small price to pay for over 300 recipes handed down by your grandmothers, mothers, aunts, cousins and sisters. Pick one up now at The Ragpicker in 96, The Star and Beacon and the Ninety Six Visitor Center or your Chamber will have a booth at the Ninety Six Town Wide Yard Sale this Saturday, May 7th. We will have our cookbooks for sale as well as our "I Love 96" buttons.

We'll see you there!!

2011-04-21T16:49:00.000-04:00

It's Boat Show Time on the Water. Grand Harbor Yacht Club, April 30th and May 1st, 11-5. Located on Lake Greenwood, Highway 702, Ninety Six, SC.

Visit The Gunnells In Water Boat Show

See boats and toys at

www.gunnellsmarine.com

And don't miss “Blessing of the Fleet” Provided by
Grand Harbor. Time is 2 pm. Bring your boat to
join in on “The Blessing” by the one and only
David Byars.
All activities at Grand Harbor Yacht Club.

2011-04-14T11:03:00.002-04:00

Visitors arrived in Ninety Six to beautiful weather on April 2nd and 3rd, 2011. It was a great weekend to visit the National Historic Site. While there, you may have run up on a reenactor dressed in period Revolutionary War attire. Here we find one at rest after a day of hunting. We know not whether it was for food or enemy.

Honoring our past, these reenactors proudly display their marching prowess as they leave their encampment and head off to battle. (Photos Courtesy of 96 Freeze Frame Photography)

This weekend on Saturday evening, we have "Singing at The Depot." Entry is only $1.00.
Call 543-3396 for more information.

*****************

Contact Charles Harts at the Ninety Six Visitor Center to sign up for the Town Wide Yard Sale to be held May 7th. We understand that booth spaces are still available. Information is available by calling 543-4820 but you must visit the Center to sign up.

*****************
Run for your life at the 2nd Annual Live Your Life Well 5K Bell Run on Saturday, May 14th in Historic Ninety Six. The route for this run is
well marked and consists of some trails and some roads. For more information contact Cathy Smith at Chaney's Heating and Cooling, 543-3436.

2011-04-06T10:05:00.004-04:00

As promised, here are pictures of our winning Miss Festival of Stars Contestants. Thanks to all who made our 3rd annual pageant such a success.

(L-R) Teen Miss Festival of Stars, Lauren Elizabeth Lovvorn; Ms Festival of Stars, Carolyne Elizabeth Brooks; Miss Festival of Stars, Chelsey Carolyn Simmons; Jr Miss Festival of Stars, Hannah Terri Murray; Young Teen Miss Festival of Stars, Matalyn Mills

(L-R) Young Miss Festival of Stars, Ryleigh Elizabeth West; Little Miss Festival of Stars, Jade Ahlea Waters; Wee Miss Festival of Stars, Holly Elizabeth Rikard; Miss Princess of Stars, Laurel Fleming; Baby Miss Festival of Stars, Ziva Coker; Toddler Miss Festival of Stars, Kyley Jade Herring

Back row are our judges for the morning session including our very own Dr. Ben Davis of Connie Maxwell Children's Home and 2010 Teen Miss Festival of Stars, Tiffany Holcolmbe.
(Photos Courtesy of 96 Freeze Frame Photography

2011-04-05T17:08:00.004-04:00

We are pleased to welcome our newest Business of The Month, Gregory N. Dixon, DC. Doctor Dixon has relocated his office and residence to Ninety Six. He is now located at 118 Cambridge Street. Office hours are:

Monday & Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - 6:oo p.m.
Tuesday & Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
After Hours By Appointment (Call 864 391-1334)

*********************

Saturday, April 2nd was an especially busy day in Ninety Six. Things were really booming (cannons, muskets, etc.) at the Ninety Six National Historic Site as reenactors celebrated Revolutionary War Days at Star Fort.

Back in Ninety Six at the Primary School, the 3rd Annual Miss Festival of Stars Pageant was held in two sessions. Fifty-eight beautiful young ladies vied for the opportunity to wear a Festival of Stars Crown.

We are please to announce the following winners in each category:

Ms. Festival of Stars - Carolyne Elizabeth Brooks
Miss Festival of Stars - Chelsey Carolyn Simmons
Teen Miss Festival of Stars - Lauren Elizabeth Lovvorn
Yound Teen Miss Festival of Stars - Matalyn Mills
Jr. Miss Festival of Stars - Hannah Terri Murray
Young Miss Festival of Stars - Ryleigh Elizabeth West
Little Miss Festival of Stars - Jade Ahlea Waters
Wee Miss Festival of Stars - Holly Elizabeth Rikard
Toddler Miss Festival of Stars - Kyley Jade Herring
Baby Miss Festival of Stars - Ziva Coker

We will have pictures soon.

2011-03-29T12:22:00.001-04:00

Wow, The Miss Festival of Stars Pageant is this Saturday and Ninety Six will be really busy. We have two sessions scheduled. The morning session is at 10:00 a.m. and will feature contestants from infants to nine years of age. The afternoon session is at 6:00 p.m. and will feature Junior Miss contestants (10 years of age) through Ms. contestants. Advance tickets are $5.00 for each session or, if you are going to attend both you can buy a package for $7.00. (At the door the tickets will be $6.00 and $10.00 for the package.)

Folks, between sessions you have time to slip out to Star Fort and spend some time at the Revolutionary War Days. Surround yourself with over 230 years of American history at Ninety Six National Historic Site’s Revolutionary War Days. You will experience what life was like during the Revolutionary War and visit an authentic military encampment. Listen to colonial music and storytelling. Visit with famous war figures like General Andrew Pickens, General Nathanael Greene, and other living historians representing Continental and Loyalist soldiers, the militia, and colonial families. Enjoy special cavalry demonstrations, guided tours, and programs. Have fun with a variety of demonstrations and activities, kids’ games, and the Junior Ranger Program. Enjoy a short lecture by Randell Jones entitled, “Before They Were Heroes at Kings Mountain- They came to Ninety Six.” Participate in a “how-to” session on conducting genealogical research by Prudence Taylor of the Greenwood County Library. Hear the muskets echo and the cannons boom across the battlefields.

Ninety Six has a lot to offer and we're proud to be a part of it. We'll see you Saturday.

2011-03-18T16:52:00.004-04:00

BULLETIN: The application deadline for the Miss Festival of Stars Pageant has been extended until Friday, March 25th.

You still have time to enter your favorite contestant.

****************
Help Up "Light Up The 96 Sky." We've got collection cans in numerous businesses in Ninety Six. Does your business have one? We've got more available in the Chamber Office.

All proceeds go towards the Festival of Stars.

*******************

Our featured entertainment for the Festival of Stars is now settled. Director Joan Butler is firming up our entertainment which

will be in the park throughout the day, Saturday, July 2.

How about this to kick off the weekend's activities....

SHAG ATTACK will be playing for

our Friday Street Dance and Cruise In.

Saturday evening

THE DAVE AND JOE SHOW

will open on the Main Stage, and

we've brought back

THE OUT OF TOWNERS!!!

You enjoyed them last year at the Street Dance and asked us

to bring them back so we are.

2011-03-16T10:13:00.004-04:00

This Saturday evening, March 19th, The Town is sponsoring singing at the Depot. Admission is only $1.00.

***********

Sunday, March 27 @ Homemade Genius. Sugar Glyder returns to Ninety Six. This is a great rock band that played at last year's festival. They're on tour and Homemade Genius was fortunate to get them to come to Ninety Six between shows. Adison Croft opens this free family oriented show @ 5:00 pm. We'll see you there!

***************

Saturday, April 2nd is the date that The Miss Festival of Stars Pageant

returns to Ninety Six. Make your plans now to support your favorite

young miss. The morning session will be at 10:00 a.m. and will feature

young ladies to 9 years of age. The evening session will begin at

6:00 p.m. and feature 10 year olds through Ms. There is still

time to enter/sponsor a a contestant. Applications are

available on-line at:

http://www.96chamberofcommerce.com/

*****************

Sign up now for the Townwide Yard Sale that will be held by the Historic 96 Developement Association on Saturday,May 7th from 7am - 1pm. Booth/spots are $10 and you can sign up at the 96 Visitors Center on Main Street or call Charlie Harts at: 864-543-4820.

****************
Saturday, May 14, 2011 @ 8:00 a.m. you can Run For Your Life at

the 2nd Annual Live Your Life Well 5K Bell Run and 1 Mile Walk.

The race will start and end at the Historic Ninety Six Depot and

the course will consist of some trails and some road.

This was a really well attended event last year and we know that with Cathy's guidance, it will be even bigger and better.

Contact Cathy Smith @ 864-941-1053.

************

Do you Facebook? Did you know that we now have a Facebook Page? www.facebook.com/pages/96-Chamber-of-Commerce/168353713216789

Go to the page and "Like" it. It's just one more way to keep

all of us informed and up to date.

***************

That's it for now..........if you have information you would like added to the Blog, send your e-mail request to: 96chamber@gmail.com

2011-03-08T22:14:00.004-05:00

One of Ninety Six's longest established businesses is our March Business of the Month. Congratulations to Johnny Vickers and his staff. The Cheeseburger House on State Street, a Ninety Six Tradition!****************

Saturday, April 2nd, the Third Annual Miss Festival of

Stars Pageant will be held in the Auditorium of the

Ninety Six Primary School.

Division 1 @ 10:00 a.m.

Toddler Miss: 0 - 35 months
Wee Miss: 3 and 4 years old
Little Miss: 5 and 6 years old
Young Miss: 7 - 9 years old

Division 2 @ 6:00 p.m.

Jr. Miss: 10 - 12 years old
Young Teen: 13 and 14 years old
Teen Miss: 15 and 16 years old
Miss Festival of Stars: 17 - 19 years old
Ms. Festival of Stars: 20 - 24 years old/never married
Applications are available @ http://96chamber.web.officelive.com/Forms.aspx

**************** Looking ahead, the Third Annual Festival of Stars is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, July 1st and 2nd culminating in the spectacular Grand Finale Featuring The Out of Towners Band and our Gala Fireworks Display. Check this Blog on a regular basis; we'll be updating you on some of the many new and interesting things we'll be adding to make this the greatest Festival in the Lakelands.

2011-02-13T17:51:00.005-05:00

What a great time was had at the Historic Ninety Six Depot Saturday night, February 12. The Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce sponsored the 1st Annual Father/Daughter Sweetheart Dance and it was proclaimed a great success by all who attended.

Additional photos from the evening are available by following this link:

http://www5.snapfish.com/snapfish/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=3126530026/a=4428250026_4428250026/otsc=SHR/otsi=SALBlink/COBRAND_NAME=snapfish/

Very special thanks go to Chairperson Debbie Caron, Karen Breasbois, Mary Seales, Margie Blalock, Mary Ann Smith, Gladys Woodcock, Lee Breasbois and Dusty Caron who volunteered their time to make this evening so successful.

***********

Mark your calendar for Thursday, February 24th. That evening, between the hours of 5:30 and 7:00, Homemade Genius of 96 is sponsoring our Business After Hours. This month Homemade Genius is sponsoring an art exhibit which we will be priviledged to see. There will be a door prize drawing at the end of the evening that you won't want to miss out on. Business After Hours is open to the public, so bring your neighbor, employees, fellow workers and family. We promise that you will find the evening well worth your time.

************

We have a celebrity in our midst; congratulations to Gladys Woodcock for being chosen as an Honor Award Winner by the Greenwood Association of Realtors.

*************

The cookbooks are about to go to press. We received more than 430 contributions from which the committee was tasked to choose the 300 which will be published. We are accepting advance orders now. Make your $15.00 checks payable to:

Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce

97 Main Street E

Ninety Six, SC 29666

Remember, the proceeds from our Sweetheart Dance, Cookbooks and Miss Festival of Stars Pageant all go to support the highly successful Festival of Stars which promotes our community as a family friendly place to do business.

2011-02-06T14:23:00.005-05:00

Congratulations to T.L. Cycles, our Business of the Month for January. They were the first Business of The Month to take advantage of The Star & Beacon's standing offer of a store-front window on Main Street to do a Business of The Month display. TL, you get a "you done good!"

**********

Our Business of the Month for February is Homemade Genius. They will be sponsors of our next Business after Hours, Thursday, February 24th @ 5:30.

**********

Our cookbook is very close to going to the publisher; we had in the neighborhood of 300 entries and it is taking some time to get it ready to go. Thanks to all who gave so generously to make this Chamber project a success. We should receive the cookbooks from the publisher about mid-May. We are taking advance orders now. Make your $15.00 check payable to:

96 Chamber Cookbook

97 Main Street E

Ninety Six, SC 29666

Proceeds support the Festival of Stars and other local Chamber Activities.

2011-01-19T20:03:00.006-05:00

The Ninety Six Chamber has a lot going on this year and we want each of our members to be a part of it. Look at what's going on in the immediate future:

If you need glasses to read this like I do, click on the image to enlarge:

We need entries in by January 26th from you, your neighbors, friends, fellow employees, etc. The Ninety Six Chamber returns all proceeds from our projects to our community. This cookbook will primarily support our Festival of Stars which has become the premier upper South Carolina Independence Day happening in just three years.

Fathers, have you considered a really special date this Valentines? How about a dance date with your daughter? Saturday, February 12th we will be sponsoring the 1st annual Father-Daughter Valentine Dance in the Historic 96 Depot from 7:00-9:00 pm. There will be refreshments and music provided by DJ Pat Patterson from Sunny 103.5. Contact Chairperson Debbie Caron @ 543-4576. Again, all proceeds are earmarked for the Festival of Stars.

Have you considered having your business sponsor an entry in the Miss Festival of Stars Pageant scheduled for April 2nd? Did you know that your sponsored entry may be eligible to enter the 2012 Miss South Carolina Pageant? Entry forms are available on our Chamber Web-site, http://www.96chamberofcommerce.com./

Have you volunteered for a position or to help with the Festival of Stars? Your annual dues allow you to say that you are a member of the Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce; your participation in our efforts to support our business community and the Greater Ninety Six Area makes you a participating member of the Chamber. We desperately need participating members.

Ninety Six Chamber Recipe Book

2011-01-04T11:39:00.003-05:00

We may be known for our unique name. We may be known as the garden spot of history and now Ninety Six will soon be known for our delicious recipes and fabulous cooks.
After approximately 25 years your Chamber of Commerce is compiling and publishing a cookbook. We invite you to be a part of this new chapter of Ninety Six history by picking up a recipe form at the Visitor Center or the Ragpicker or access the form on our website http://www.96chamberofcommerce.com/.

(Click on the Forms and Applications Tab)

The completed forms can be dropped off at the Visitor Center, the Ragpicker or mailed to the Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce, 97 Main Street East, Ninety Six, SC, 29666. The deadline to submit recipes on the required form is January 26, 2011.

If you have questions regarding your submission contact: Karen Breasbois (864-543-2286) or Mary Seales (864-543-2053)
Your name will be included with each selected recipe. The categories are as follows: appetizers & starters, soup & salad, vegetables & side dishes, main dishes, breads & rolls, desserts, this & that.
The Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce Cookbook will be available for purchase in late spring. This project will benefit “The Festival of Stars/ Fireworks” and other future Chamber projects.

2011-01-03T10:53:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year! We hope your past year was good and that 2011 will be even better.

Your Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce is anticipating a very good year and we are going to be asking for your help.

We will be soon announcing the dates for our 2011 Business Showcase and Business after hours. In The Meantime, Save these dates:

Saturday, April 2 - Miss Festival of Stars Contest @ Ninety Six Primary School
Friday, July 1 - Festival of Stars Street Dance
Saturday, July 2 - Festival of Stars Parade, Day in The Park & Fireworks Display

The Town's calender will soon be filling up, also. We'll soon add dates for The Town Wide Yard Sale; Star Fort Activities; Cateechee Fest; High Grove Gathering; Masquerade on Main; History and Ghost Tour; Christmas Parade; and the Tour of Homes.

As you can see, Ninety Six is very active and very family oriented. It's a great place to visit and a better place to live and raise a family. The Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce welcome inquiries regarding business opportunities in our immediate area. Contact us at:

96chamber@gmail.com

Thank You

2010-12-18T14:29:00.006-05:00

2010 is almost gone and it has been a good year for your Ninety Six Chamber. We hosted a Business Showcase in the Depot; the Miss Festival of Stars Pageant; the 2nd annual Festival of Stars; Business After Hours (hosted by Flowers by D&L and Hairadise;) the Ninety Six Christmas Parade and Craft Sale and, last but not least, the 4th annual Christmas Tour of Homes and Churches.

In addition, we have participated in the H96DA Town Wide Yard Sale; the 1st annual Cateechee Fest and, later in the fall, the 1st annual Masquerade on Main and History and Ghost Tour, both sponsored by the Town of Ninety Six.

Many of our Chamber membership have worked tirelessly in these endeavors which are intended to promote the Town of Ninety Six and its quality of life. Not only is Ninety Six a great place to live, but it is a great place to do business. To those members who have worked so hard, we give our "Thanks."

We want to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Productive New Year.

O Little Town of Ninety Six

2010-12-05T16:24:00.017-05:00

Saturday, December 4th, began quite chilly but with clear skies, it was a perfect day for a parade in Historic Ninety Six, The Star of South Carolina. Not only were we having a parade, we also were sponsoring a Craft Bazaar at the Visitor Center. Following are pictures of what we saw throughout the day. It was really a great time in Ninety Six.

(Click on any picture to enlarge.)

And then the parade began with our Grand Marshals,

Mayor and Mrs. Charles Harts, riding on yhe

Connie Maxwell horse drawn wagon.

Happy Holidays

2010-11-29T11:53:00.005-05:00

Well, we're hoping that everyone had a very happy and safe Thanksgiving. It is really great to give thanks for all the wonderous blessings that we share living in this wonderful country and especially in Ninety Six, "The Star of South Carolina."

The next couple of weeks are going to be really busy. This Saturday we kick off the Christmas holiday with our annual Christmas Parade which starts in Historic Downtown Ninety Six at 11:00 and ending at the Ninety Six Primary School. Before and after watching the parade, spectators can visit the Holiday Bazaar at the Visitor Center and Gazebo. It will run from 9:00 - 3:00 and will feature holiday crafts and gifts, jewelry and antiques, barbeque and more.

Don't forget to bring the non-perishible food items you've collected for the Holly Self Drummond Food Bank. We'll accept your donations at the Visitor Center starting at 9:00.

Saturday, December 11th @ 4:30 p.m.

The Ninety Six Annual Christmas

Tour of Homes and Churches

Tickets are $10 purchased in Advance

Or $12 the day of the tour and are

available at the Visitor Center,

The Briarpatch on 34,

The Tikki Hut in 96,

or from Chamber Directors.

Opportunities abound to assist. If you can help with the parade and Bazaar activities, contact Cathy Smith @ 543-3436 or

Debbie Caron @ 543-4576.

If you can assist with the Tour of Homes, contact Rhonda McDowell

at rmcdowel@greenwood52.org

This is the "Season of Giving" and we ask that you give your assistance to Cathy, Debbie and Rhonda.

2010-11-09T16:13:00.002-05:00

Last week your Ninety Six Chamber held the Annual Dinner at LasCascadas Restaurante Mexicano in Ninety Six. We had a good turnout to hear our featured speaker, Dr. Ben Davis of Connie Maxwell Children's Home.

Dr. Davis' topic was "What makes a 'Fantastic Community.' "

We were very pleased to have a special guest,

Sen. John Drummond.

******************

The annual election of directors and officers has been completed and certified. The four new three year directors are:

Debbie Caron

Ben Davis

Nancy Novak

Allen Wertz

The officers for the coming year are;

President - Ed Quinn

Vice President - Dana Ashcraft

Secretary/Treasurer - Diane Quinn

Co-treasurer - Cathy Smith

Also, your Board has regretfully accepted the resignation of Director Jama Lomax. Her term will be completed by Director At Large Mary Seales.

We will be working on committee assignments in the coming weeks. If you have an interest in working on a specific project, send an e-mail

indicating that interest to: 96chamber@gmail.com.

***********************

O Little Town Of Ninety Six

That's the theme for this year's Ninety Six Christmas

Parade on Saturday, December 4th.

Will your business or organization be represented?

Entries received prior to November 19th are

only $10.00. (Exceptions are semi-

trailers, floats and vehicles

pulling trailer floats,

are $20.00.)

Entries received after Nov. 19th will be charged an additional $5.00.

This is the season of giving. Don't forget the Food Drive.

****************

Save The Date

Saturday, December 11th, Ninety Six Celebrates Christmas

With Our Annual Tour of Homes and Churches

From 4:30 - 7:30 pm

Tickets are $10.00 purchased in advance or $12.00

the day of the tour.

Visit These Beautifully Decorated

Homes and Churches:

The Home of Eric and Tracy Turner

421 S Cambridge

The Home of Brian and Lauren Fortner

208 Kate Fowler Road

The Burnett House

118 Main Street

Bethlehem Baptist Church

309 Main Street East

Temple Baptist Church

95 Saluda Street

This is a fund raiser for your Ninety Six Chamber to assist us with the Festival of Stars. We will be e-mailing flyers; please post them for your associates to see and, if you would like tickets to sell,

call Ed Quinn at 389-0008.

Also, Director Rhonda McDowell will be asking the membership

to assist by being Chamber Representatives at each of

the Tour Sites. If you would like to volunteer,

rather than being asked, send us an

e-mail @ 96chamber@gmail.com.

**************

Have a good week and remember to check back often!

2010-11-02T15:51:00.004-04:00

What a night in Ninety Six. Saturday evening we had ghost, goblins, witches, angels, Star Wars characters, hoboes and hoboettes all gathered together for a safe, family oriented Masquerade on Main.

The 1st Annual History and Ghost Tour followed and was enjoyed

by over 300.

That it was so successful is evidenced by the fact that it was

expected to be over at 11:00 p.m. but the last tour did not

finish until 12:15 a.m.

***********

Our Annual Dinner is this Thursday at Las Cascadas at 7:00. Seating is very limited so contact Diane and get your reservation in.
Director Ben Davis, the CEO of Connie Maxwell Children's Home, will be our guest speaker. His presentation is one you will not want to miss.
Tickets for the evening are $19.95 per person and include your dinner, taxes and gratuities. A cash bar will be available.

************

Is your business participating in the O' Little Town of Ninety Six Christmas Parade on December 4th? The parade will be followed by

Pictures With Santa in the Gazebo. We will also have

a Free Magic Show at the Visitor Center.

The Chamber will be offering Popcorn and Hot Chocolate in exchange

for a donation of non-perishable food items.

(Or they will be available for 50 cents each.)

************

In this "Season of Giving" we also

challenge our membership to collect non-perishable food items

from your customers and employees. We will be

receiving these items on the day of the parade

and all items collected will be donated to

our local food bank.

2010-10-24T21:53:00.003-04:00

What a wonderful treat the weatherman has had in store for us the past few weeks. This weekend we took a ride up into North Carolina and got on the Blue Ridge Parkway to enjoy those great autumn sights. When you see those beautiful colors and gorgeous vistas, you know that there has to be a higher power. If you haven't made the trip, the colors are really at their peak and you should try to go.

**************

Our membership has spoken and we welcome and recognize the following members who will be serving as three year members of our Board of Directors as of January 1: Debbie Caron; Ben Davis, Nancy Novak and Allen Wertz

***************

This past Tuesday evening Danny Lewis and Amber Taylor hosted our Fall Business After Hours. Flowers By D&L and Hairadise were decorated to the max and Amber prepared great refreshments. If you failed to drop in, you missed a very enjoyable evening.

****************

This Saturday night the Town of Ninety Six will be holding the First Annual Masquerade on Main. Businesses, Churches, Civic Organizations and individuals are invited to decorate their business, a booth or a vehicle and provide and hand out "Treats" and information to Trick or Treaters in a safe and controlled environment. The festivities begin at 6:00. A costume contest will be held at the Gazebo at 7:00 and prizes will be awarded for costumes as well as best decorated booth, car, business and best religious costume and best group.

Following the Masquerade on Main at 8:15 the Town will host the 1st Annual History and Ghost Tour. These tours will leave the Visitor Center every quarter hour. (Wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight.) The tour is $5.00 if paid in advance or $7.00 that evening.

Contact Margie Blalock at 543-3396.

****************

Monday, November 1st at 5:30 pm is our next Board of Directors meeting at the Visitor Center. As always, our general membership is invited to attend. The agenda for this meeting includes the election of officers

for the coming year.

*****************

Have you reserved your spot for our Annual Dinner at Las Cascadas? Seating is very limited so contact Diane and get your reservation in.

Director Ben Davis, the CEO of Connie Maxwell Children's Home, will be our guest speaker. His presentation is one you will not want to miss.

Tickets for the evening are $19.95 per person and include your dinner, taxes and gratuities. A cash bar will be available.

2010-10-05T10:10:00.003-04:00

Good morning. It really is a good morning here in Ninety Six, SC. There's a crispness in the air and "Weather Bug" says it got down into the high 40's early this morning. Last weekend I happened to drive through our neighboring towns of Ridge Springs and Saluda and noted the Town's and their merchants have decorated for the harvest. Yesterday, I was so pleased to see the same activity happening in Downtown Ninety Six.

Fall is arriving!

***************

Chamber members, add these items to your calendar;

Saturday, October 9th - Open House For All Town of 96 Businesses from 10:00 - 6:00; High Grove Antique Show & Sale in the Town Park from 10:00 - 4:00; Artist's Reception in the Visitor Center 3:00 - 7:00; and, last but definitely not least, 6:50 - 8:00 pm, Annual Candlelight Tour @ Star Fort
Tuesday, October 19th - Business After Hours sponsored by Flowers by D&L and Hairadise 5:00 - 6:30 pm
Thursday, October 21 - Girls' Night Out Health Fair sponsored by Piedmont Health Group @ Tower Pointe 4:00 - 7:00
Saturday, October 30th - Masquerade on Main and 1st Annual History and Ghost Tour in Historic Ninety Six 6:00 pm
Monday, November 1st - Chamber Board Meeting @ 5:30 pm in Visitor Center - Agenda includes Election of Officers
Thursday, November 4th - Annual Membership Dinner at LasCascadas @ 7:00 pm. Contact Diane and get your reservations in early. Tickets are $20.00 per person and include Dinner, Tax and Gratuity. Seating for this event is limited and there will be NO tickets sold at the door.

Folks, we need help. Your Chamber has a lot on its plate in the next few months. We are manning tables and/or booths at the Girls' Night out and Masquerade on Main. In December we have our Christmas Parade and Fun in Ninety Six and The Holiday Tour of Homes and Churches. None of these by themselves require a great amount of time or effort; but it's a lot to ask from a dedicated few. Give Diane a call and offer to help. We'll put you in touch with a Committee Chairperson who will be delighted to have your assistance. I promise, it will be rewarding.

2010-09-29T21:27:00.004-04:00

A Reminder: Your 96 Chamber Board of Director's Meeting is Next Monday, October 4th at 5:30 p.m. All members of the 96 Chamber are welcome. A vote on amendments to the Constitution and ByLaws is anticipated.

*****************

Let's Join The Ragpicker and Do What We Can To Support The Greenwood Humane Society:

BAYLOR AND OLIVE (FOLKS, IF YOU HAVEN'T MET THESE TWO, YOU ARE MISSING THE PETS OF A LIFETIME) HAVE TEAMED UP TO HOST

"HELP THE HOMELESS" BENEFITING THE

GREENWOOD HUMANE SOCIETY...

Throughtout the month of October supplies can be dropped off at either Ragpicker location.

Any donations are appreciated, but the items listed below are especially needed. Please note there are specific requirements so as not to upset delicate tummies.

Clay Cat Lttter (Fresh Step, Tidy Cats or Walmart's Special Kitty)
Kitten Chow (Purina or Walmart's Special Kitty)
Puppy Chow
Paper Towels
Bleach (Clorox brand preferred due to concentration level)

"Until one has loved an animal. a part of one's sole remains untouched." - Anatole France

DONATIONS MAY BE DROPPED OFF AT EITHER RAGPICKER LOCATION (HODGES OR NINETY SIX) WEDNESDAY THRU SATURDAY BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 10:00 AND 5:00.

2010-09-27T10:20:00.007-04:00

Wow, we had some rain this weekend and it appears that we are in for some more. Then the real Fall weather is going to be headed our way. (Weather Bug says we have highs in the 70's in store for us.)

***************

This past weekend's Baseball Memorabilia Show appeared to be a huge success. Thanks to all who came out and supported the Exhibit. The more support we, the Town and your Chamber, get for these activities, the more we can provide.

****************

Next Monday your Ninety Six Chamber's Board of Directors will meet at 5:30 pm at the Ninety Six Visitor Center. The results of the nominations and voting of the new Directors for the coming year will be announced. Also, we will be voting on some proposed changes to our Constitution and By-Laws. All members of the Ninety Six Chamber are invited to attend.

****************

Remember these important dates of activities coming up:

October 9th - Ragpicker Antiques Fall Open House & High Grove Gathering @ the 96 Town Park
October 16th - National Night Out in Mill Village across from Cambridge UMC
October 19th - Business After Hours at Flowers By D&L and Hairadise - 5:30 p.m.
October 21 - Girls Night Out Health Fair @ Tower Pointe
October 30th - Masquerade on Main and the 1st Annual History & Ghost Walking Tour
November 20th - Ragpicker Antiques Christmas Open House & High Grove Antique and Folk Art Christmas Open House at the Historic Depot
November 27th - A Back Country Holiday @ Star Fort
December 4th - Ninety Six Christmas Parade "Oh Little Town of Ninety Six"
December 11th - Tour of Homes and Churches

****************

Set aside the following date, Thursday, November 4th and make plans to attend our Annual Meeting and Dinner. Space will be limited. It's not too early to get your reservations in to Diane. Tickets are $20.00 each and include your meal. A cash bar will be available.

2010-09-13T09:26:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Homemade Genius for hosting a fantastic Music, Arts and Film Festival held this past weekend in Ninety Six. We saw a lot of wonderful entertainment. It brought out some old friends and we made some new ones, too. All in all, it was a great job and we're looking forward to the next one next year.

****************

Next on our agenda here in Ninety Six are the Baseball Memorabilia Traveling Museum on September 24th and 25th and, for all the antique aficionados, on October 9th the Ragpicker Antiques Fall Open House and High Grove Gathering. Make your plans now to attend.

***************

A reminder; election of new Board Members nomination letters were mailed out last week. We need these returned as soon as possible, but we will not be able to tabulate any returned after this Friday, September 17th.

2010-09-02T20:51:00.006-04:00

Congratulations to Lakelands Realty our September Business of The Month. Through the years Gladys Woodcock has done much for the Town of Ninety Six and your Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce. We are pleased to recognize her and recommend her.

***************************

We want to commend our County Commissioner and Lake Management Committee Chairman, Patrick Moody for his efforts to get the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to modify the"drawdown" requirements for Lake Greenwood. We'll all be able to enjoy our lake until November 1st and this should prove to be a great boon to our economy.

***************************

One of our newest members, Homemade Genius, is sponsoring the Homemade Genius Music. Arts and Film Festival September 10th - 12th. We encourage all of our members to visit http://www.homemadegeniusfestival.com/ for information. We'll see you at the Festival!!!

****************************

Chamber members, soon you will be receiving nomination forms and you will be asked to list twelve recommendations to serve as Chamber Directors. Please return these no later than September 17th. The Nominating Committee will tabulate your recommendations and you will then be sent ballots to elect the new Directors who will begin serving January 1st.

Chamber Members "Giving Back To The Community

2010-07-29T16:03:00.004-04:00

Chaney's Heating and Cooling is sponsoring a school supply wish list to help kids get ready for school. Items on the wish list include:

Loose leaf notebook paper
No. 2 pencils
Black-and-white composition notebooks with sewn pages
Crayons
Book bags (Sorry, no rolling book bags)
Standard briefcase bags for grades 3-5
Plastic folders with pockets & prongs (colors red, blue, yellow, green & orange)
Glue Sticks
Colored pencils
1" spiral notebooks
Scissors (fiskars)
Pencil top erasers
Zippered pencil pouches
Ziploc bags (quart & gallon sizes)
Paper towels
Anti-bacterial soap
Boxes of tissue
Clorox wipes
Band-Aids

Donated items may be dropped off at Chaney's Heating & Cooling, 121 E Main St, Ninety Six on August 6th and August 9th between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

All donations are welcomed from business and/or individuals. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Cathy at 543-3436.

*********************

September 10, 11 and 12 one of our newest members, Homemade Genius, is sponsoring the Homemade Genius Music, Art & Film Festival. More than 100 artists, performers, bands, etc will be performing and/or displaying their art. This is a very major undertaking and we encourage all Chamber members to make plans to attend one or more performances. Check out http://www.homemadegeniusfestival.com/ for further information.

These are great things that our Chamber members are doing, lets all get behind them and support these endeavors.

Festival of Stars

2010-07-11T12:00:00.006-04:00

Wow, what a great weekend we had in Ninety Six. Our 2nd Annual Festival of Stars drew approximately 17,000 to our lovely town to the Beach, Boogie and Blues Street Dance, Parade, Festival and Fireworks Display. A special thanks is due to Mayor Arvest Turner; the Ninety Six Town Council; Chief Robert Shingler and the 96 Police Department; Chief Neil Lomax and the 96 Fire Department; Ken Younce and his staff and so many others entirely too numerous to mention.

Some of the crowd enjoying The Out of Towners Band at the Beach, Boogie and Blues Street Dance.

Councilman Steve Turner relaxing along side Mayor Arvest Turner as the Band plays on.
Color Guard of Scouts from Troop 53 preparing for the Flag Retirement
Ceremony.
Saturday morning, the Festival kicked off with a parade featuring our Festival of Stars Co-Grand Marshals; Mrs. Helen Belue and Mrs. Ruby Dowis. Miss Helen and Miss Ruby were celebrated their 96th birthdays with this Horse Drawn carriage ride as the 96 Chamber recognized them.
We had wagons and golf carts. Fire-cracker wagons. The Ninety Six Mill Village Neighborhood Association was out in force. We had decorated golf carts of all shapes and sizes; Beauty Queens and Beautiful Cars;Sponge Bob and Antique Vehicles;Horses; Boy Scouts of Troop 53;Native Americans and Indian Princesses; and, of course, Uncle Sam!
There were a lot of folks, and a lot of pictures taken. If you would like to submit pictures taken at the Festival, please e-mail them to 96chamber@gmail.com.

Also check out www.townof96sc.com for some more great pictures.

2010-06-25T15:39:00.004-04:00

The 2nd Annual Festival of Stars is happening in Historic Downtown 96 and in the 96 Town Park on July 2nd and 3rd.

New This Year: Beach Boogie & Blues Street Dance and Cruise In on Friday, July 2nd. LIVE BROADCAST from Sunny 103.5 with Pat Patterson from 4:30 - 6:30 pm.

At 7:oo pm we have an opening ceremony and at 7:30 pm its

THE OUT OF TOWNERS BAND who will be playing until 10:00.

At 8:30 pm, the OUT OF TOWNERS will take an intermission and

we will conduct an American Flag Retirement Ceremony. (Bring your

old, tired flags so we can retire them with dignity.)

Saturday, July 3rd: Our day begins with the Star Spangled Patriotic Parade at 10:00 am. There's no entry fee, just be there with your decorated cars, trucks, golf carts, bicycles, horses and walking canes. We'll be led by a Horse and Buggy with our special Grand Marshall!!! (Watch for this one, you should be well pleased.) The parade will line up at the Boozer Complex on Duke Street at 9:15 am.

There's an area in the park dedicated to the young ones with plenty of safe, special, child friendly entertainment.

You'll find 3 legged races, sack races, water balloon tosses, watermelon, hot dog and pie eating contests and more.

Throughout the day we've got entertainment Downtown at the Gazebo and at Homemade Genious and in the park on the Main Stage. Look for some of your favorites among the following; Karen Lewis, Afterlife, Damascus Road, The Winterhawk Drummers, several church and gospel choirs and Tara's House of Dance.

We've got craft vendors, woodworkers, silversmiths, jewelers, facepainters, and food. Oh my gosh; BBQ, Hash, Fried Pies, Fried Chicken, Fried Fish and Fried Ice Cream!

Hot Dogs, Sausage Dogs, Philly Cheese Steaks. Oh heck, we've got something for every appetite.

Need to work some of that food off? Work off those excess calories at the Bungee Trampoline located at the Depot.

From 10:00 am - 2:00 pm The Oldest Church in Ninety Six,

The Ninety Six Presbyterian Church, will open its

doors for an Open House. This is a very special

invitation for our Festival guests.

Want a better view of what's going on? Take your choice of transportation from the sedate tour of Historic Main Street in a Horse and Carriage or Thomas the Train. The more adventurous can look down on it all from the helicopter which will be providing tours of Ninety Six from above.
At 6:30 pm The Dave and Joe Show kicks off the evening's entertainment and at 7:30 pm we introduce our headliners,

The Fabulous Expressions

At approximately 9:45 pm Greenwood County's Premier Fabulous Fireworks

Display will fill the skies over Ninety Six. The Fabulous Expressions will then play an Encore Set as Festival goers gather their lawn chairs, blankets, etc and head home.

Have a Safe and Wonderful Fourth of July Weekend.

Chamber Opportunity

2010-06-10T16:12:00.005-04:00

Chamber members, you have a great opportunity coming soon. The Ninety Six Star and Beacon plans to put out a Festival of Stars edition on Wednesday, June 30th.
We anticipate a great number of visitors to Ninety Six the weekend of the Festival. Get your company's name in front of those visitors by buying a space welcoming the visitors; promoting a Festival special; or just wishing everyone a safe and happy 4th of July. The edition will include the complete Festival Schedule as well as maps of the Venues and available parking.
A 2x2 ad is only $15.00 and they are combinable in 2X2 increments.
Contact Joan Butler at the Star and Beacon to place your ads.
She can be reached at 543-3444 or at
starad@embarqmail.com.

*************
Our Festival is getting even bigger and better. Make plans to attend the Beach, Boogie and Blues street dance on Friday the 2nd.

The Emerald City Region antique car club and the Emerald City Cruisers will be joining us for a Cruise-In.

Saturday we are adding exhibits in addition to our arts and crafts vendors and food stations. Look for special announcements coming soon on this.

Have we told you that the fireworks will be one of the most spectacular in South Carolina? Well, it will be. The company putting on our fireworks has done shows at Superbowls, Las Vegas, Key West as well as many other venues. They did the show last year, and this promises to be even better.

Saturday night, just prior to the fireworks display, we are going to be treated to another special type of fireworks. First we will be entertained by the Dave and Joe Show, then that hot, hot, hot Beach Band, Carolina's own Fabulous Expressions, will take the main stage.

Make your plans now to attend this year's Festival of Stars. You will not be disappointed.

2010-06-01T13:08:00.004-04:00

We want to congratulate our Business of The Month for June; Able's Furniture on Wilson Bridge Road. Richard and Clara Able have given much of their time and effort over the years to the Chamber and the Town of Ninety Six.

The Festival of Stars "Save The Fireworks" campaign got a big boost last week. Mayor Arvest Turner and the Town of Ninety Six presented the Chamber with a check for $2500.00. We have added that to the gifts we already received and are now within $2800.00 of our $11,000.00 goal.

2010-05-26T11:37:00.010-04:00

Things are happening in Ninety Six and your Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce is right in the middle of them. Look at what we've got going over the next six weeks:

Ribbon Cuttings:

May 27th, 10:00 am - Homemade Genius
June 3rd, 2:00 pm - Papa Jacks
June 1oth, 10:00 am - Southern Comfort Diner
June 16th, 1:00 pm - The Ragpicker of 96
June 24th, 11:00 am - Theresa's Place
Join us as we welcome these new businesses to our Chamber and Historic Ninety Six.

Photo Contest:

Our Festival of Stars Photo Contest is still accepting entries. The photos will be on display in the Visitor Center through July 31. There are cash prizes to be awarded and judging will be by the public who vote on their selections through July 5, 2010. Applications are available at http://www.96chamberofcommerce.com/ , click on the Festival of Stars Tab.

Festival of Stars:

THE FESTIVAL OF STARS STREET DANCE & CRUISE IN
IN THE TOWN OF 96 - FRIDAY, JULY 2ND

The Out-of-Towners Band
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

4:30 – 6:30 PM SUNNY 103.5 REMOTE WITH
PAT PATTERSON
7:00 – 10:00 PM CHILDREN’S INFLATABLE FUN ZONE
7:00 PM OPENING CEREMONY/RIBBON CUTTING
7:30 – 10:00 PM THE OUT-OF-TOWNERS-BAND
9:30 PM FLAG RETIREMENT CEREMONY

SPONSORS
Sunny 103.5, Capsugel, Rubbin Butts BBQ
96 Lions Club, Carolina Snack Shack
Bruster’s Ice Cream, Chick-Fil-A Drive Thru
Greenwood County, The Town of Ninety Six

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE CAROLINA CRUISERS, EMERALD CITY REGION AACA
**************

96 FESTIVAL OF STARS
JULY 3rd, 2010
Schedule of Events
**CRAFT & FOOD VENDORS ALL DAY LONG**

MAIN STREET 96
10am Patriotic People’s Parade; Trikes, Bikes, Wagons, Strollers,
Golf Carts, Antique and Classic Cars. (Line up @ Boozer Field)
10am-5pm Art Exhibit & Photo Contest (Visitor Center)
11am-5pm DJ Barry Mayfield and Other Entertainment @ The Gazebo
(Check The Bulletin Board For Your Favorites Scheduled Time)

96 TOWN PARK
10am Children’s Activity Area Opens
11am-noon Revolutionary War Re-enactors “Settlers Traveling”
Noon-2pm 3 Legged Races, Egg Toss, Nail Hammering Contest, Frisbee & Football Throw, Peanut Scramble, Watermelon Eating Contest & More
MAIN STAGE ENTERTAINMENT @ TOWN PARK
11am-5pm Damascus Road, Winterhawk Drummers, Tina Haralson, Karen Lewis, Tyler Hendrick and More. (Check The Bulletin Board
For Your Favorites Scheduled Time)
6:30 pm THE DAVE & JOE SHOW

The Fabulous Expressions

7:30 pm MAIN ATTRACTION: THE FABULOUS EXPRESSIONS
9:45pm Fireworks Display & Patriotic Celebration

2010-05-09T15:45:00.006-04:00

The Ninety Six Primary School Auditorium was filled with beauty Saturday night. The 2nd Annual Miss Festival of Stars Pageant brought over 350 parents, grandparents, family and friends out to support their favorite beauty.

Front Row L-R: Wee Miss - Chloe Danielle Ison; Baby Miss - Elizabeth Nicole Parks; Tiny Miss - Jade Ahlea Waters

Back Row L-R: 2009 Miss Festival of Stars - Madison Boatwright; Teen Miss - Tiffany Holcombe; 2010 Miss Festival of Stars - Amanda Ellenburg; Ms Festival of Stars - Tayler Elizabeth Roberson; 2009 Teen Miss - Karmen Roller

******************

Entertainment was provided by Karmen Roller, Tara's House of Dance and Karen Lewis.

The pageant perfectly closed out a busy, beautiful spring day in Historic Ninety Six. The skies were blue, the weather perfect and the Town Wide Festival which preceeded the pageant was exceptionally well attended. The day had something for everybody to enjoy.

2010-05-02T12:11:00.004-04:00

The 1st annual LIVE YOUR LIFE WELL 5K BELL RUN was run Saturday, May 1st through Historic Ninety Six. Fifty-one runners were entered in this event and, by all accounts, the run was very successful.

Runners Receiving Their Instructions:And They Are Off:The Very First Arrival At The Finish Line:
This Young Lady Was The Class of The Field:

Our congratulations to Cathy Smith for a job well done.

*******************************

The Miss Festival of Stars Beauty Pageant will be this Saturday, May 8th.

The "younger set," will be judged at 4:00 pm.
We will have formal wear competition
in the following categories:
· Baby Miss: ages 1-2
· Wee Miss: ages 3-4
· Tiny Miss: ages 5-6
· Little Miss: ages 7-9
· Junior Miss: ages 10-12

The following age groups will compete in both
Formal and Casual Wear at 7:00 pm:
Teen Miss: ages 13-15
Miss Festival of Stars: ages 16-19
Ms. Festival of Stars: ages 20-25

Tickets are $5.00 and are available at
The Tikki Hut and The Visitor Center.
We are also selling them at the May 8th
Town Wide Yard Festival and at the door.
Questions? Need tickets to sell?
Contact Diane @ 543-2047

2010-04-22T11:03:00.004-04:00

Just two weeks until our Second Annual Miss Festival of Stars Competition.
The Pageant will be at Ninety Six Primary,
Saturday May 8th.

This year the pageant will be broken down into two
separate events. The first will be for the

"younger set," and will be at 4:00 pm.

We will have formal wear competition

in the following categories:

· Baby Miss: ages 1-2
· Wee Miss: ages 3-4
· Tiny Miss: ages 5-6
· Little Miss: ages 7-9
· Junior Miss: ages 10-12

The following age groups will compete in both

Formal and Casual Wear at 7:00 pm:
· Teen Miss: ages 13-15
· Miss Festival of Stars: ages 16-19
· Ms. Festival of Stars: ages 20-25

Is your business sponsoring a contestant? Applications

are still being accepted and are available at

The Tikki Hut in Ninety Six and the

Ninety Six Visitor Center.

Tickets are $5.00 and will be available next week at

The Tikki Hut and The Visitor Center. We will

also be selling them at the May 8th

Town Wide Yard Festival and

at the door.

Questions? Need tickets to sell? Contact Diane @ 543-2047

2010-04-06T08:44:00.002-04:00

It's a wee bit late, but we want to congratulate our Business of The Month for April, The Historic Kinard House Bed and Breakfast. We got the pictures up, but failed to ask you to visit with them at www.kinardhouse.org/. The Kinard House is operated by Lee and Karen Breasbois.

I can't mention Lee and Karen without recognizing their hard works on behalf of the Ninety Six National Historic Site at Star Fort. Visit Star Fort this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, April 10 and 11 for Lifeways of the Cherokee Indians & Colonial Settlers. This weekend features an authentic encampment of living history interpreters (including Lee and Karen) who portray soldiers and women of the mid-1700s.

Neighbors United Credit Union is having their Grand Opening Celebration and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for their new branch on Wednesday, April 14th. The hours are 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. with the actual ribbon cutting occuring at 11:30. Chamber members are invited and encouraged to attend.

Look for Ribbon Cuttings coming up soon for the following new business who have joined the Ninety Six Chamber:

Papa Jacks Grill and Supply Store

Theresa's Place

Consignments @ Camillia Cottage

Successful 2010 Business Showcase

2010-03-26T16:24:00.013-04:00

On March 25, 2010 the Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce sponsored Business Showcase was held at the Depot in Historic Ninety Six, SC. Exhibitors from within the Chamber's membership were afforded the opportunity to display their wares (goods and/or services) to fellow Chamber members as well as the public.

From all accounts, the Showcase was successful. Not only were businesses able to develop leads, they were also able to display their versatility and ability to meet a customer's needs right here in our vacinity.

We especially want to express our thanks to the members and exhibitors who donated refreshments and door prizes.

Throughout the evening we gave door prizes donated by SunTrust Bank, TupperWare, The Office Supply Center, Neighbors United Credit Union, Carolina Boogie Band, Piedmont Health Group, Food Lion on South Main, The Town of Ninety Six and The Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce.

Refreshments were provided by The 96 Piggly Wiggly, The Briar Patch on 34 and The Food Lion on South Main.

Connie Maxwell Children's Home

The Kinard House Bed & Breakfast
(Our Next Business of The Month)

SunTrust Bank
Business of The Month, March, 2010

Patsy H. Manley, Author

Bronco of 96

The Office Supply Center

Sylvia Herlong Tupperware

Neighbors United Credit Union

The Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce

Joe Ross and The Carolina Boogie Band

Piedmont Health Group

The Briar Patch on 34 &

Bruce Lawrence & Associates, Realtor

TechWood

McCravy, Newlon & Sturkie Law Firm

Camera Shy:

Papa Jack's Grill & Supply Store
The Blood Connection

Also, May 8th

Miss Festival of Stars Pageant

Entry Form Available At

The Tikki Hut in Ninety Six,

The Ninety Six Visitor Center or

http://www.96chamberofcommerce.com/

2010-03-18T10:45:00.003-04:00

We've planned a party!!! The Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce's Business Showcase is scheduled for Thursday, March 25th at the Depot in Historic Ninety Six, SC. The Showcase will be held from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Invite your co-workers, business associates and neighbors. These businesses are working together to promote the Historic Town of Ninety Six and help our community to prosper and grow.

Light Refreshments courtesy of The

Briar Patch on 34; The Ninety Six Piggly

Wiggly; and The Hwy 25 Food Lion

will be served.

Door PrizesWill Be Awarded

Throughout The Show.

2010-03-12T08:03:00.003-05:00

Good morning, it's just thirteen days until our Business Showcase on Thursday, March 25th. Be sure to mark your calendar for this great event. It's an opportunity to meet and share ideas with many of the Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce members who are working to promote the Historic Town of Ninety Six and help our community to prosper and grow. This is a public event. Invite your co-workers, neighbors and friends. Rhonda McDowell has done a great job preparing for this occasion. We'll have light refreshments courtesy of the Ninety Six Piggly Wiggly and The Briarpatch on 34.

***********

The Festival of Stars Pageant is scheduled for Saturday, May 8th

at the Ninety Six Primary School Gymnasium.

THE DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS APRIL 15, 2010

Applications are available on our web site;

http://www.96chamberofcommerce.com/

or The Tiki Hut in Ninety Six and

at the Visitor Center.

***************

We've got some really great things lined up for

The Star Spangled Festival of Stars

July 2nd and 3rd.

*********

Have you started on your Parade Entry? Get that

Golf Cart or Bicycle Decorated in a

Patriotic Theme. We'll

see you there!!!!

2010-03-03T09:53:00.005-05:00

You Are Invited

***

Thursday, March 25th 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

The Historic Depot - Ninety Six, SC

***

The Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce

Presents Its

Business Showcase

***

Visit with many of the Chamber Businesses

that have joined together to promote

the Historic Town of Ninety Six

and help our community

to prosper and grow.

***

Light Refreshments Courtesy of

The Ninety Six Piggly Wiggly

& The Briar Patch on 34

***

Very Important....so much of the governmental assistance that we get locally is dependant upon our population and demographics. The 2010 Census is
coming soon. Be Counted......It's important to our State, our County
and our Town of Ninety Six.

2010-02-26T09:59:00.004-05:00

Congratulations To SunTrust Bank of Ninety Six. Our Business of the Month for March.

******************

We are proud to welcome and announce that the following businesses and individuals have recently joined our Chamber.

Carolina Boogie Band
Cheeseburger House
Consignments At Camillia Cottage
Suzy Farrar
Jerry's Floral Shop & Greenhouses
R&M Technical Services, Inc
Space Walk
Tech-Wood, N.A.
Theresa's Place
Velux

They will be working with us to help businesses to prosper and grow; working to increase job opportunities and encouraging our neighbors to "Shop Ninety Six."

Make your plans now to join us at our Business Showcase on March 25th. You'll have the opportunity to meet many of these fine people as they display their products and/or services.

2010-02-18T10:18:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was a sad day. We were told that Bakery 96, a member of the Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce, was closing as of this Friday. We want to wish Sharon Reynard and her staff good luck in their future endeavors.

This is the second time in the past few months that a Chamber member has felt that they needed to close their business quite suddenly.

We are a CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. The Chamber provides some unbelievable networking opportunities for business owners and operators to interact with each other; to share ideas, to work with, and yes, to offer assistance and guidance to our member businesses.

Next month, on Thursday, March 25, the Chamber is sponsoring a Business Showcase at the Depot in Ninety Six between the hours of 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm. This is a "mini trade fair" giving our members the opportunity to network, interact, display their wares to fellow members and the public. Do you have a space reserved? Do you plan to attend and displaying? If so, thank you. If not, why not?

The Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary partnership of business, professional people and concerned individuals who are working to improve our community's economy and quality of life by: Helping businesses to prosper and grow; Working to increase job opportunities and encouraging our neighbors to "Shop Ninety Six."

2010-02-08T10:02:00.004-05:00

The Fabulous Expressions have agreed to perform as our Headliner Band for the Star Spangled Festival of Stars, July 3rd. For the second year in a row, we will be bringing top ranked entertainment to the Ninety Six Festival.

Your Chamber Festival committee is working hard to put together an even bigger and better festival. We will be meeting this Thursday evening @ 5:00 at the Visitor Center. We need volunteers from among the general membership to work on the following committees:

Patrons Committee
Miss Festival of Stars Concession Committee (Will work at the Pageant)
Miss Festival of Stars Staging Committee (Set-up & Breakdown/Clean-up)
Parade Line-up Committee (Will work afternoon July 2nd & July 3rd)
Vendor Support Committee (Will work afternoon July 2nd & July 3rd)
Games/Contests in the Park Committee (Will work July 3rd)
Chamber Welcome Table (This table will welcome visitors to the Park, sell Festival Souveniers, provide information regarding the Historic Town of Ninety Six and gather information regarding visitors origin.)

If you can work on any of these committees; please send an e-mail to 96chamber@gmail.com . We need your help. Remember, you only get out of the Chamber what you put into it.

2010-02-03T11:46:00.006-05:00

Festival of Stars Up-date:

Miss Festival of Stars - Saturday, May 8

Star Spangled Festival of Stars - Fri, July 2nd - Sat, July 3rd.

Rules and Applications for Miss Festival of Stars are now available on our web-site http://www.96chamberofcommerce.com/ . Either go to the Festival of Stars Tab or the Forms and Applications Tab. Vendor Applications for the Star Spangled Festival of Stars are also available.

**********

On Friday evening, July 2nd, at the Downtown Gazebo, "Those Old Boogie Men," Ninety Six's own Carolina Boogie Band, will be performing for the opening ceremonies for our Star Spangled Festival of Stars. In addition, we will have a Flag Retirement & Burning Ceremony. Watch for further information, (A "Cruise In" maybe?)

2010-02-01T15:00:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to Flowers By D&L, our Business of the Month for February.

************
Gentlemen and ladys, Valentines Day is coming up in just two weeks.

Patronize your fellow Chamber members

on this occasion.

*************

The Golf Club at Star Fort has just announced that they will preparing a

Sunday Lunch Buffet Beginning February 7.

11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Meats, Vegetables, Salads, Breads,

A Carving Station

and Desserts.

$8.95 - Per Person

$4.95 for Children 10 and Under

(Tea or Fountain Drink $1.00)

***********

Very Important....so much of the governmental assistance that we get locally is dependant upon our population and demographics. The 2010 Census is

coming soon. Be Counted......It's important to our State, our County

and our Town of Ninety Six.

There's a Chamber meeting tonight at 5:30...Mayor Arvest Turner will visit us and be available to

answer your questions.

Make plans now to attend the Chamber Showcase, March 25th. Chamber members, this is your opportunity to showcase your business to your fellow members and the public at large. Our last event was so well attended that we now have reserved the Depot and the Visitor Center!!!

Contact Diane for Information.

Random Friday Thoughts

2010-01-29T09:54:00.004-05:00

Good Morning, I'd like to give special "atta girls" to Karen Breasbois, Debbie Caron and Sylvia Herlong. These ladies have been out beating the bushes and signing up lapsed and new members in great numbers. In numbers we have strength and working together we can make it happen!

Speaking of working together, we have set the dates for our Miss Festival of Stars Pageant (Saturday, May 8) and the Festival of Stars (Saturday, July 3.) Now is the time for you to mark your calanders for these dates. We're going to need your help to make this years events even bigger and better than before.

Chamber members, we need you to start planning now to enter a float in the parade July 3rd. In fact, I'd like to see some of you step up and volunteer to design a Chamber Float.

We welcome our newest businesses (and newest Chamber Members) in Ninety Six. Theresa Fain has opened Theresa's Place on Main Street. We also welcome aboard Joe Ross and the Carolina Boogie Band. Remember, working together we can make it happen; always strive to patronize your fellow chamber members.

Next Monday the Chamber has it's monthly meeting at the Visitor Center at 5:30 p.m. Mayor Arvest Turner will be visiting with us and will be available to answer your questions. Our general membership is always invited to our Chamber meetings.

That's it for this week, stay warm and dry and safe this weekend; it's gonna be nasty out there.

2010-01-21T09:39:00.004-05:00

There will be a planning meeting for the Festival of Stars this afternoon at the Visitor Center at 4:00. We will be drafting rough schedules for the event. Come join in, we'll put you on a committee.

Yesterday we noted that the Groundbreaking for the combined Middle/High School in Ninety Six was scheduled for today, Thursday, January 21st. Due to the prediction for inclement weather, the Groundbreaking has been re-scheduled for Tuesday, January 26th at 4:00.

Exciting Times To Be In Ninety Six, SC

2010-01-20T08:50:00.006-05:00

Ninety Six is taking some big steps into the future:

Mayor Arvest Turner and Chief Robert Shingler recently announced plans to commence enforcing animal control and town ordinances.
Mayor Turner announced the appointment of Margie Blalock as the new Director of Tourism and Events in 96. Margie is one of your 96 Chamber Directors and is filled with enthusiasm. She worked tirelessly on last year's Festival of Stars and we know she will give that same enthusiasm and tireless effort to promoting the Town of 96.
This Thursday, January 21st, District 52 will break ground on the long awaited combined Middle School/High School.

Exciting things are happening in Ninety Six, SC and your Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce needs you and wants you to be a part of it. We are already hard at work on this year's Festival of Stars and your in-put and help is needed.
Working Together We Can Make It Happen……...Renew Your Chamber
Membership Now!!!
It's been an exciting year for your Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce.......We've been in our new facility for over a year now. We've sponsored some really great events and we were hosts to 15,000 people for our very successful "Festival of Stars" for the Fourth of July.We've seen the effectiveness of utilizing "the net."We now have e-mail addresses for just about all of our membership. By utilizing e-mail we have been better able to communicate with you on a more timely basis.
· Our Blog has received an average of 13 page views daily since we began recording in June.
· We now have a Web Site which we invite you to visit @
http://www.96chamberofcommerce.com

· We will be posting web address links to our member businesses on the web site
· We added a craft fair to our Christmas Holiday Parade and Fun in The Park and plans are already underway for this year's even bigger 2nd Annual Festival of Stars.
We are proud of what we have accomplished in the past; but we have an even greater vision for our future.
We are reminding you to re-new your membership now and, while you are at it, add an associate or two from your staff and ask your business neighbor to join also. After all, there is strength in numbers and “Working together we can make it happen.”

A New Year

2010-01-04T12:32:00.003-05:00

It's a new year and in Ninety Six we're anticipating new things.

It won't be long before we will see the new clock in up-town Ninety Six.
Police Chief Shingler, with the support of Mayor Turner and the Town Council, is implementing enforcement of long ignored Town Ordinances. This implementation will definitely assist in the revitalization effort of our town.
The Rezoning effort to create the Neighborhood Revitalization District in the Mill Village is exciting.
This spring we should see ground breaking on our new Combo Middle/High School.
The Ninety Six Chamber is planning for an even bigger and better Miss Festival of Stars Pageant to be held in the spring.
We have a major corporate sponsor, which we will soon announce, whose support will make our second annual Festival of Stars Fourth of July Celebration an event to remember. If you thought last year's was good, "you ain't seen nothin' yet!"

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

We welcome our newest members to the Ninety Six Chamber; D&L Florist and Techwood, LLC. Please remember to support the merchants who do so much to support our Town of Ninety Six.

2009-12-22T10:06:00.006-05:00

Our congratulations to Mayor Turner and the Town of Ninety Six. The Town's web site is up and running and is very well done. Take a few minutes to wander around in the site; you will be impressed.

http://www.townofninetysixsc.com/

The Visitor Center is closed today through the Holidays for maintenance. Diane will be in the office on Monday and Tuesday the 28th and 29th to close out the yearly activities and books.

This is the last you will hear from Diane or the Chamber until after Christmas. We wish you a very Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-14T10:03:00.005-05:00

Well, the Christmas Parade, Fun in the Park, and the Holiday Tour of Homes are behind us. We want to say a special "Thank You," to all who worked so diligently and faithfully to assure the success of these events.

*****

This past year has been an especially active and productive one for our Ninety Six Chamber. We instituted our Business of the Month recognition; had a very successful Meet and Greet and Business After Hours; sponsored the 1st Annual Festival of Stars Beauty Pageant and the highly successful Festival of Stars Independence Day Festivities. In addition, we can add the Ribbon Cuttings; the Chamber Golf Tournament at Star Fort; the Christmas Parade; the Fun in the Park and the Holiday Tour of Homes.

*****

We staff the Visitor Center every Monday and Tuesday and on alternating Fridays. We are slowly adapting to the Internet age; we began this blog and this fall our Chamber Web Site came on line. (By the way, you will note that at the bottom of each blog post, there is a spot for comments. We welcome your thoughts.)

*****

We also have found that we can save quite a bit on postage and office supplies by communicating through this medium and by e-mail. We will be up-dating this blog much more frequently in the new year and we encourage you to send a shortcut to your desktop and check the blog daily. (Don't wait for an e-mail telling you the blog has been up-dated :~) )

*****

If you missed the Tour of Homes, you can still see the really great effort taken by one of the stops on the tour. This coming Sunday evening, December 20th, Temple Baptist Church will be performing their Christmas Cantata. We have been advised that prior to the Cantata you are invited to tour the Church and see the displays that were designed for the Tour of Homes and Churches. Check with the Church for times, but I believe that the Tours will be starting at 5:00pm.

*****

In closing, I want to offer a very sincere "Thanks for a job well done," to our outgoing officers; President Stacey Juergens and Vice President Nancy Novak. These two are true dynamos whose seats and shoes will be very hard to fill.

Star Light Star Bright - December 5, 2009

2009-12-08T09:56:00.012-05:00

Friday night we went to our beds with "Visions of Downpours" dancing through our heads. In the morning when we awoke, we couldn't have been happier; the rains had moved South and our weather couldn't have been better.

Precisely on time, at 10:00, our Star Light Star Bright parade began.

(Click On The Pictures To Enlarge)

Our Mayor, Arvest Turner

State Champion Marching Wildcat Band

Pizza Inn of Greenwood

Beautiful Festival of Stars Princesses

Following are pictures of other Queens, Floats and Marching Groups who

we thank for participating in our parade.

Following the parade, and Santa's arrival in the Town Park, the Fun and Festivities began. Following are some views, look closely and you may see yourself or someone you know.

Christmas is a wonderful time for giving and sharing. Our partnership with the Band of Brothers made for a very successful Toy Drive. Thanks to all who gave so much to make our day in Ninety Six a success. To those who shared your day with us, we look forward to bigger and better events in the future.

Ninety Six, working together we Can Make It Happen!

2009-12-07T16:39:00.001-05:00

Saturday, December 12, 2009
Christmas Tour of Homes & Churches
Homes and Churches Opened from
4:30 – 7:30 P.M.

Advance Tickets $10.00 at Visitor Center
($12.00 Day of Tour)

2009-12-02T09:18:00.004-05:00

Saturday, December 5

Join Us as 96 Celebrates Christmas
Star Light Star Bright
96 Christmas
Parade

Parade begins @ 10:00 A.M.

FUN IN THE PARK
Immediately following the parade
Games for kids
Craft and Food Vendors
Bake Sale

Hickory Hill Farm Dairy Cow

Saturday, December 12, 2009
Christmas Tour of Homes & Churches
Homes and Churches Opened from
4:30 – 7:30 P.M.

Advance Tickets $10.00 at Visitor Center
($12.00 Day of Tour)

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T10:00:00.005-05:00

From our families to yours, may this season be abundant with family, friends, and much to give thanks for.
Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful holiday season!
Warmest regards,
Your Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce

96 Celebrates
Christmas
Star Light Star Bright
96 Christmas
Parade

Saturday, December 5, 2009
Parade begins @ 10:00 A.M.

FUN IN THE PARK
Immediately following the parade
Games for kids
Craft and Food Vendors
Bake Sale

Ring In Christmas With The Town of Ninety Six

2009-11-19T11:23:00.004-05:00

The Ninety Six Star Light Star Bright Christmas Parade, Fun in The Park and Craft Festival, sponsored by the Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce, will be held beginning @ 10:00 Saturday, December 5th when the Grand Marshalls from the Ninety Six American Legion Post 103 lead off our parade in Model “A’s” from The Old Ninety Six District Model A Club. Following will be Floats, Bands, Motorcycles, Civic Organizations, Dignitaries, and of course Santa Claus.

The parade route this year will begin behind the Depot, take a jog on Cambridge, then proceed down HWY 34 to the ball park.

Following the parade you need to plan on coming to the Town Park where there will be craft vendors, fun, games, BBQ and Santa will be there for pictures. The activities are scheduled to run from 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Bring a Toy…….The Band of Brothers are conducting a Toy Drive For The Kids. Toys are being collected for the needy in the Greater Ninety Six Area and the Band of Brothers and their fellow motorcyclists will be bringing toys the day of the Festival. Drop offs of toys prior to the day of the Festival may be made at the Ninety Six Police Department.

Vendor and parade applications are available by clicking on the link above or by contacting Diane at (864) 543-2047.

The Annual Dinner

2009-11-06T08:39:00.006-05:00

Last night's Annual Dinner at Star Fort was a great success. Our thanks to Rob Eaton and his staff for a "job well done." For those of you who were un-able to attend, you missed a great evening.

We began with a greeting by our esteemed Vice President, Nancy Novak. This was followed by a moment of silence for those involved in the horror at Fort Hood, Texas and the Invocation led by Mayor Arvest Turner.

Following dinner, Mrs. Novak reminded us of the impact that the Chamber's activities and events have upon the Town of Ninety Six. She then presented a gift to our President, Stacey Juergens, as a momento for her service to the Chamber.

President Juergens presented Certificates to the Businesses of The Month for the year and then introduced the Officers and Directors who will be serving the Chamber in the coming year.

Member Emeritus:

Stacey Juergens

1 Year Directors:

Julie McCary

Mary Ann Smith

2 Year Directors:

Margie Blalock

Jama Lomax

Rhonda McDowell

3 Year Directors:

Dana Ashcraft

Karen Breasbois

Joan Butler

Debbie Caron

Mark Peterson

Andrea Prater

Ed Quinn

Directors At Large:

Ben Davis

Polly Davis

Allen Werts

President Elect: Ed Quinn

Vice President Elect: Jama Lomax

Following remarks by President Elect Quinn, Director Dana Ashcraft and President Juergens gave out door prizes and table top gifts. Vice President elect Jama Lomax then thanked everyone for their attendance and we adjourned for the evening.

2009-11-03T09:11:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to our November Business of The Month, The Golf Club At Star Fort. We recognize Tommy Pendley and his staff for a "Job Well Done" in helping to make our Golf Tournament so successful. Tommy, we expect even bigger and better next year.

This Thursday at 11:00 a.m. we will be holding our Ribbon Cutting for Dixon Chiropractic. All members are encouraged to attend and welcome Greg Dixon into our Chamber.

Remember our Annual Dinner this Thursday, November 5th at the Golf Club @ Star Fort. Tommy Pendley and his Chef are preparing a fabulous Buffet Dinner, which will include a Beef Carving Station, all for $14.50 per person.
A Cash Bar Will Be Available
Recognition of this year's BUSINESSES OF THE MONTH
Recognition of Sitting Officers and Directors
Introduction of your newly elected Directors and Officers
PLEASE RSVP to Diane at 543-2047 or by e-mail @ 96chamber@gmail.com .

Board Members, please be sure to "Save A Date" for Thursday evening, November 12th at 5:30. This is a very important called meeting for sitting Directors and newly appointed Directors. We will be finalizing plans for our Christmas Parade and Tour of Homes and discussing committee assignments for the upcoming year.

2009-10-20T09:30:00.006-04:00

Good day, Ninety Six Chamber followers.......some things we need to pass on this week:

We have mailed applications to many groups, organizations and vendors to participate in our Christmas Parade and Fun in the Park. If you have one of those applications sitting on your desk, please return it to Diane.
It's not too early to begin planning for next year's Festival of Stars. We were reminded of this just yesterday when one of our members noted that her company was budgeting for the year 2010. When you plan your budget requests, don't forget your Chamber activities. (She didn't!) "Working together, we can make it happen."
Diane will be out of the office on Monday, October 26th but will be back on Tuesday and will also be in the office on Friday, October 30th.

(Click To Enlarge)
This year's Annual Banquet promises to be even bigger and better than we've experienced in the past.

Tommy Pendley and his new chef, Rob Eaton, are pulling out all of the stops to host an impressive event.

Be sure to RSVP to Diane 96chamber@gmail.com and return your payment no later than next Tuesday, October 27th.

ANNUAL DINNER AND INTRODUCTION OF NEW OFFICERS

2009-10-15T18:14:00.007-04:00

Remember to Save A Date for the Annual Dinner on November 5th at the Golf Club @ Star Fort. Tommy Pendley and his Chef are preparing a fabulous Buffet Dinner, which will include a Beef Carving Station, all for $14.50 per person.

A Cash Bar Will Be Available
Recognition of this year's BUSINESSES OF THE MONTH
Recognition of Sitting Officers and Directors
Introduction of your newly elected Directors and Officers

PLEASE RSVP to Diane at 543-2047 or by e-mail @ 96chamber@gmail.com .

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

STAR LIGHT - STAR BRIGHT

Our Annual Ninety Six Christmas Parade and Fun In The Park
Saturday, December 5

Parade @ 10:00
Fun In The Park Immediately Following:

Games, Crafts, Food

Holiday Gift Vendors

Pictures With Santa

Chamber Notes:

2009-10-07T15:57:00.003-04:00

We appreciate the Ballots that have been returned for the election of new directors. To those that haven't yet returned them, please do so by October 15th; we want your voice to be heard.
The Meet and Greet scheduled for October 22nd has been postponed and we will reschedule it after the first of the year.
Katie McCarty of Serendipity is at home recovering from knee surgery. She has advised us that she will be unable to continue to serve on the Board. Thanks for your service Katie.
Remember to Save A Date for the Annual Dinner on November 5th at the Golf Club @ Star Fort. PLEASE RSVP to Diane at 543-2047 or by e-mail @ 96chamber@gmail.com .
The Christmas Parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 5th @ 10:00. Our theme this year is "Star Light - Star Bright." Our FUN IN THE PARK will be fun for the Kids and the Old Folks too. This year we will have fun and games, arts and crafts, and food. All in the Ninety Six Town Park.
We welcome our newest Chamber members. Mermaid Productions and Dixon Chiropractic. We will be having a Ribbon Cutting for Dixon Chiropractic at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5th.
Once again, a special "Thank You" to Palmetto Bank for a wonderful Business After Hours. Julie, you and your staff are to be commended.

Palmetto Bank Hosts Business After Hours & Ninety Six National Historic Site Welcomes New Chief Ranger

2009-09-29T20:46:00.012-04:00

Tuesday, September 29th, The Palmetto Bank in Ninety Six hosted Business After Hours. Our special thanks to Julie McCary and her staff for a job well done.

Wednesday, September 30th, Ninety Six Welcomed Our New Chief Ranger, Tim Cruze, to Star Fort National Historic Site

Meet Your New Chief Ranger, Tim Cruze

Diane Quinn, Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce Secretary and Jan Williams, Eastern National Book seller.

Time to Renew and Elect New Directors

2009-09-27T11:47:00.004-04:00

It's already been an exciting year for your Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce.......We've been in our "new digs" for a year now. We've sponsored some really great events and we were hosts to 15,000 people for our very successful "Festival of Stars" for the Fourth of July.

In addition; we've seen the effectiveness of utilizing "the net."

We now have e-mail addresses for just about all of our membership. By utilizing e-mail we have been better able to communicate with you on a more timely basis.

Our Blog has received an average of 13 page views daily since we began recording in June.

We now have a Web Site which we invite you to visit @ http://96chamber.web.officelive.com/default.aspx

We will be posting web address links to our member businesses on the web site

We are proud of what we have accomplished in the past; but we have an even greater vision for our future. This year we are adding a craft fair to our Christmas Holiday Parade and Fun in The Park and plans are already underway for next year's even bigger 2nd Annual Festival of Stars.

We are now at the point that we are asking you to re-new your membership and, while you are at it, add an associate or two from your staff and ask your business neighbor to join also. After all, there is strength in numbers and “Working together we can make it happen.”

Thanks to the many of you who have already returned your ballots for your choices to join our Board of Directors. To those who are still considering and have not yet returned your ballots, please do so soon. If you did not receive a ballot, contact Diane at the Chamber office 543-2047 or 96chamber@gmail.com.

And, have you made plans to attend the Annual Candlelight Tour at Historic Star Fort?

We Have A Web Site

2009-09-25T16:20:00.004-04:00

The Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that we now have an active web site. The link from here is on the top of the adjoining column. The actual URL is:

http://96chamber.web.officelive.com/default.aspx

Members, you will note that it contains links to your business (if you have provided Diane with that link.) We encourage you to help us help you. Provide us with that link and your business will be helped by the exposure through our site.

Additionally, we will be giving an added emphasis to our Business of The Month. We will attempt to tell a bit about the business, its ownership, and its employees.

Remember, this is your Blog.....provide us with material to keep it up-to-date.

AND LEST WE FORGET

Remember that we have FREE HOT DOGS tomorrow at 5:00 in the Ninety Six Town Park.

We get to see our new Ninety Six Police Officers get Tazed and Pepper Sprayed.

Meet the New Chief and his fine staff of officers.

Did You Know and We Need Your In-put

2009-09-15T11:04:00.001-04:00

Next week the Palmetto Bank will be hosting our Business After Hours. Some have asked why a Business After Hours? Here's your answer:

Business After Hours is a great networking opportunity for all businesses. The Ninety Six Chamber members are invited to meet and network with other members as well as learn about the businesses in their local Chamber. (Bring business cards to pass out.)

The settings are held at various business locations. Anyone in The Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce is allowed to host a Business after Hours event. The hosting business is allowed a 10 minute presentation in order to explain the benefits of using their company.

All are welcome to join this event. Each business is encouraged to bring a guest.

Would you like to host a Business After Hours event that spotlights your business for an evening? Here are some of the benefits of doing so:

A press release put in the Star & Beacon regarding the date and time prior to event.
Multiple people coming to your place of business. You can give a tour of your facility or a presentation of what services are provided at your place of business.
Invitation sent to all Chamber Members regarding the event and location.
Another press release in the Star & Beacon regarding the outcome of event and your specific services provided.

Your responsibilities as a host of a Business After Hours will be:

Light refreshments - other hosts have offered desert trays, veggie platters, water and or soda.
Space to accommodate 20 guests.
Facility tour or presentation of services (optional)

If this is something that you would be interested in sponsoring, contact Diane Quinn at (864) 543-2047 or 96chamber@gmail.com.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

Chamber members, do you have News of Interest that you would like to share? Maybe a special sale or a public service you are promoting? This blog is visited by your fellow Chamber members AND your neighbors AND your customers. Send your news of interest to: 96chamber@gmail.com. We try to update this weekly and, as a general rule, information received by Monday will be posted no later than Thursday.

New Things Are Coming

2009-09-01T12:05:00.002-04:00

Chamber members, did you know that new things are coming and that you are invited (expected, even) to take part? Oh, yes.

We are fast approaching our membership drive for the 2010 year. Diane will be sending out reminders for you to renew your membership. But, isn't the Chamber a benefit to you? Of course it is. Why not invite your business neighbor and/or friendly competitor to join? The more the merrier, and the more we can do to promote the Town of Ninety Six and our business community. Remember, "Working Together We Can Make It Happen!"

Check your mail in the coming weeks. We have some Chamber Directors who will be rotating off of the Board. Diane will be mailing you ballots containing names of eligible individuals. WE NEED THESE RETURNED. It's just like any other election. If you don't vote, your voice isn't heard.

The Annual Dinner is scheduled for Thursday, November 5th, at The Golf Club at Star Fort. Make plans now to attend.

Help is Needed - The Annual Ninety Six Christmas Parade and Fun In The Park and Annual Tour of Homes are labor intensive. We need your help now, and on the dates of the events. Contact Diane at 543-2047.

7th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament

2009-08-23T16:39:00.003-04:00

What A Great Day For A Round of Golf

Saturday, August 22nd, in Ninety Six, South Carolina. Our President Stacey Jurgens, and our hard-working golf guruess Andrea Prater, had been asking for a good day to play golf, and what a glorious day it was.

PGA Professional Tommy Pendley and his staff had the course in great shape for the teams that teed it up at the beautiful Golf Club At Star Fort.

We want to offer our congratulations to the following winners:

1st Place Team

Gary Nelson
Tim Burnett
Stephen McFerrin
Tim Owens

2nd Place Team

Mark Stevenson
Rick Holaus
Jonsie Alexander
Ken Orcutt

Closest to the Pin # 4
Dan Wideman

Closest to the PIN #16
Mark Stevenson

Longest Drive # 13
Mark Stevenson

Closest to the Line #10
Shane Goslin

Finally, we want to offer our most sincere thanks to every one who contributed to the success of our 7th Annual Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament. We look forward to seeing all of you again next year.

Did You Know

2009-08-17T09:30:00.003-04:00

Tee Off @ 1:15 p.m.

Raffle and Dinner Following Play

The Deadline For Entering Teams For The 7th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament Has Been Extended Until Thursday The 20th?

That A Hole In One Could Be Worth As Much As $10,000?

That We’ve Got Some Really Great Prizes To Be Raffled Off?

Saturday’s Weather Is Forecast To Be In The 80’s And Only A 30% Chance Of Rain?

That We Need You To Fill Out A Team?
Contact Diane Today

2009-08-10T17:04:00.002-04:00

Thanks To Everyone Who Helped To Get Kids Ready For School!!

*****

Make your plans now to attend the Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce

7th Annual Golf Tournament

Food and Fun and Prizes Await You

at The Golf Club @ Star Fort

Chamber Members, are you sponsoring a Team?

If not, will you sign up to be on one?

(Click on Application To Enlarge Then Right Click To Print)

* * * * * * *

Also, Check Out These McCormick Chamber Activities

*****
Gold Rush Festival Sept. 19th 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Gold Rush Festival is a time honored tradition throughout McCormick County. This is the 32nd year for the festival. The festival is kicked off with a parade in which everyone is in. There is music on the stage in the town park along with local and area vendors selling their wares in the park and in front of the MACK and Fannie Kate’s. Food from as far as North Carolina. A Car Show that gives you an opportunity to visit the Cotton Gin and while you are strolling you will no doubt want to see the Gold Mine. Currently there is a live music party being discussed for the night before the Festival sponsored by the McCormick Children’s Home BBQ Competition. http://www.mccormickgoldrush.com/ or e-mail any questions to: festival@mccormickgoldrush.com

2009-07-28T20:02:00.003-04:00

Are You Helping To Get Kids Ready For School? Contact Cathy @ 543-3436

She's Got Plenty For you To Do

*****

Make your plans now to attend the Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce

7th Annual Golf Tournament

Food and Fun and Prizes Await You

at The Golf Club @ Star Fort

Chamber Members, are you sponsoring a Team?

If not, will you sign up to be on one?

(Click on Application To Enlarge Then Right Click To Print)

* * * * * * *

Also, Check Out These McCormick Chamber Activities

*****
Gold Rush Beauty Pageant August 1, 2009 Savannah Lakes POA Activity Center, 6pm

FORE!!!

2009-07-14T09:08:00.007-04:00

Make your plans now to attend the Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce

7th Annual Golf Tournament

Food and Fun and Prizes Await You

at The Golf Club @ Star Fort

Chamber Members, are you sponsoring a Team?

If not, will you sign up to be on one?

(Click on Application To Enlarge Then Right Click To Print)

The Ninety Six Chamber Welcomes Our Newest Members

2009-07-08T19:26:00.023-04:00

Ashcraft Financial Mgt Services
116 Greenbriar Rd
Greenwood, SC
29649
943-3310
http://lplfinancial.lpl.com/

Computer Consultants & Merchants
125 West Commerce Circle
Greenwood, SC
29646
330-0030
http://www.ccm2.com/

Colors Unlimited
1610 Calhoun Rd #C
Greenwood, SC
29649
229-4040
Doris' Greenhouse
1204 Ninety Six Hwy
Greenwood, SC
29646
229-7616

Lakeview #1
7110 Hwy 34
Ninety Six, SC
29666
543-1574
Ro-Mac Trophies and Signs
115-P Hampton Avenue
Greenwood, SC
29646
229-9277

T. L. Cycles
105 N Cambridge St
Ninety Six, SC
29666
543-3144

The Briar Patch on 34
802 Ninety Six Hwy
Greenwood
29646
943-2333
http://www.briarpatchon34.com/

The Office Supply Center
1716 ByPass 72 East
Greenwood, SC
29649
223-7635
http://www.theofficesupplycenter.com/
TP's Automotive Service
4249 Ninety Six Hwy
Ninety Six, SC
29666
543-2265

Festival of Stars A Great Success

2009-07-05T13:37:00.006-04:00

WOW!!! Ninety Six hasn't looked this great in years.....

Thanks to the businesses and homeowners who made the effort to show our visitors our pride in our Town of Ninety Six. And a very special "Thank You" to Mayor Arvest Turner and all of the Town employees who worked so hard to make the 1st Annual Festival of Stars so successful.

*****

Ninety Six, we're 96 miles from everywhere and we had people from everywhere visit us on the 4th of July. We saw many out-of-state auto tags in the parking areas and met a family from the Czech republic who were enjoying their very first American 4th of July.

*****

Here are some pictures we took to share with you.

Shortly after these pictures were taken, the blankets and lawn chairs appeared and the entertainment began.
We enjoyed Tina Harlason, Nashville Gospel Recording Artist Bobby Sanders and Damascus Road. And who could not be overwhelmed by the show put on by our main attractions,

HACK BARTLEY & SHUFFLE

and Greenwood County's first ever

FESTIVAL OF STARS FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA.

*****

We'll see you again next year when when we'll be even bigger and better.

We're Gonna Have A LARGE Time!!!

2009-07-01T15:05:00.000-04:00

Ninety Six is going to be LIT UP this

July 4th for the inaugural

Festival of Stars.

***

We begin in Up-town Ninety Six at the Gazebo with The Opening Ceremony conducted by our Festival Queen who will be joined by special dignataries including Mayor Arvest Turner, State Senator Floyd Nicholson and State Representative Mike Pitts.

Next we welcome our Veterans in the AMERICAN LEGION who will

conduct the Flag Retirement Ceremony to be followed by

the Honor Parade of Cycles and Cars.

***

The Parade, conducted by the BAND OF BROTHERS, will have something

for every motorcycle and car enthusiast to dream about.

*****

**CRAFT & FOOD VENDORS ALL DAY LONG**

MAIN STREET 96
10am-5pm Car & Motorcycle Show (Main Street in front of Visitor Center)
Art Exhibit & Photo Contest (Depot)
3pm Pie Eating Contest (Bakery 96-Main Street)
4pm Hot Dog Eating Contest (96 Tire & Oil-Main Street)

96 TOWN PARK
11am-noon Patriotic Little People’s Parade (Trikes, Bikes, Wagons, Strollers)
Golf Cart Parade, Hat Decorating Contest
Revolutionary War Re-enactors “Settlers Traveling”
Noon-2pm 3 Legged Races, Egg Toss, Nail Hammering Contest, Frisbee & Football Throw, Dunking Booth, Peanut Scramble, Watermelon Eating Contest & More
11am-2pm MUSIC: STEP ‘N OUT, DJ Barry Mayfield, Kim Marlowe, & Infinity
2pm-4pm Children’s games & Prizes

MAIN STAGE ENTERTAINMENT @ TOWN PARK

***BRING YOUR BLANKETS AND LAWN CHAIRS***

2pm Vocalist Tina Harlason
3pm Nashville Gospel Recording Artist Bobby Sanders

4pm Christian Rock Band Damascus Road

8pm MAIN ATTRACTION: HACK BARTLEY & SHUFFLE

9:45pm Fireworks Display

& Patriotic Celebration

Festival of Stars Pageant Was A Great Success

2009-06-27T15:54:00.000-04:00

The Ninety Six Primary School Auditorium was filled to over-flowing with a standing room only crowd last night to witness the Inaugural Miss Festival of Stars Pageant. What a spectacular event it was. Sixty of Greenwood County's finest and most beautiful young ladies ranging from 6 months to the age of 40 outfitted in Patriotic Red, White and Blue.

They were all winners, but the individual winners in each category received the judges' awards. Congratulations to:

Baby Miss Festival of Stars 2009

Katie-Marie Fortner

Most Photogenic: Kamie-Lee Narcisco

***

Wee Miss Festival of Stars 2009

Lexie Ann Rackley

Most Photogenic: Kaylee Jane Smith

***

Tiny Miss Festival of Stars 2009

Carlee Stockman

Most Photogenic: Jayce-Brie Gonzalez

***

Little Miss Festival of Stars 2009

Callie Nicole Ferqueron

Most Photogenic: Katherine Grace McCarty

***

Junior Miss Festival of Stars 2009

Anna Grace Mitchell

Most Photogenic: Mary Ashley Moore

***

Teen Miss Festival of Stars 2009

Karmen Bryana Roller

Miss Photogenic: Karmen Bryana Roller

***

Miss Festival of Stars 2009

Madison Boatwright

Miss Photogenic: Madison Boatwright

***

Ms. Festival of Stars 2009

Jenna Emert

***

Mrs. Festival of Stars 2009

Mrs. Amy Carter

***

Miss Personality (Chosen By The Pageant Director)

Mary Margaret Davis

The Judges also chose an over-all winner from among the winners

in each category. Karmen Bryana Roller received the

Over-all Winner's Trophy and the Over-all

Photogenic Trophy.

Update on the Festival of Stars

2009-06-23T11:24:00.000-04:00

The Ninety Six Chamber met last night and are we excited!

Folks, you don't need to travel far for a great time the next two weekends.

This Saturday evening @ 6:00

The Miss Festival of Stars Pageant is being held

at the 96 Primary School.

Tickets are only $5.00 and are available at

SERENDIPITY,

FORTNER'S HOME CENTER,

THE TIKKI HUT IN 96.

***

SATURDAY, JULY 4th

Don't even think about traveling anywhere but to Ninety Six.
It's a full day of FREE ENTERTAINMENT. We start with the
FLAG RETIREMENT CEREMONY
at 10 a.m. and go through

the afternoon when we bring you

Vocalist Tina Harlason,

Nashville Gospel Recording Artist Bobby Sanders and

Christian Rock Band Damascus Road.

At 8 p.m. our

MAIN ATTRACTION HEADLINERS

HACK BARTLEY and SHUFFLE

entertain until the FIREWORKS SHOW

View 96 Festival of Stars Map in a larger map