ADDA unveils new medallion
The Aiken Downtown Development Association (ADDA) has a new addition to its annual Collector's Medallion Series.
Carla Cloud, ADDA executive director, unveiled the 2009 commemorative medallion, which features the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum.
The Racing Hall of Fame and Museum in Hopelands Gardens recognizes Aiken's contribution to equestrian sports.
This year's medallion was chosen through a contest for which the ADDA asked local residents to submit suggestions for a new ornament. The Hall of Fame led votes with 51. Aiken Preparatory School followed with 25 votes. Other submissions included Hopelands Gardens, Coker Springs and the Aiken County Farmers' Market.
At the unveiling, Cloud recognized Lisa Hall, program supervisor for City of Aiken Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism and the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum, for working to rally votes for the Hall of Fame.
Past medallions include the Morgan Circle fountain, old Post Office, Old Aiken Institute, Aiken County courthouse, Best Friend Locomotive and South Boundary.
The contest also offered a drawing for free ornaments for those who chose the winning medallion. Warren Dempsey, Dennis Duerksen and Judy Ledford were each chosen to receive the 2009 medallion.
"The Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame is very deserving of more recognition than it has received," Ledford said after the event. "This is a great honor."
Cloud also announced that one medallion will be retired. The 2006 USPA Gold Cup Polo ornament will no longer be reordered.
"This will truly become a commemorative ornament," Cloud said.
The Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum medallion is $25. It, along with past medallions, is available at the ADDA office in The Alley and online at www.downtownaiken.com.
Cloud said that after Thanksgiving, the ornaments will also be available at several stores such as Lionel Smith Ltd., Tea Garden Gifts and Aiken Office Supply. Cloud said the ornament will also be available at the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame.
For more information, call the ADDA at 649-2221
Contact April Bailey at abailey@aikenstandard.com.