Both are still feeling very, very good.

New Ellenton, the Aiken County town that persevered even after Savannah River Site displaced the original residents of Ellenton in 1952, feels it has a lot in common with the singer, now in his sixth decade of performing.

That's what prompted Annie Mae Ford, who heads the Atomic City Festival committee, to make the suggestion to honor Mr. Brown as the town celebrates a half-century next Saturday.

They chose the annual festival as the appropriate timing for the 50-year gala, although the actual anniversary of the town won't be until April - six months before the next fest.

It is still up in the air as to how Mr. Brown will be recognized. Organizers say he will either receive a key to the town or be asked to be a town ambassador. He will attend the festival to accept the honor, organizers say.

''We want to gather a consensus of the community as to the manner they want to honor him,'' New Ellenton Police Chief Van McMillan said. ''The committee wanted to honor him in regards to his community achievements. It is a good-neighbor gesture because he does live in Aiken County and we do love him. He's our favorite son.''

Chief McMillan said his contributions to American soul music make him a legend.

''It's not often that we are able to recognize our own for some of their accomplishments. I think Mr. Brown has accomplished a lot in his lifetime,'' he said.

New Ellenton decided to begin celebrating its 50th anniversary with next Saturday's festival rather than wait until next October, six months after the real anniversary, said Jackie Keenan, who is organizing the festival's car show.

''This is our little town's yearly festival. It is to celebrate the town and its people,'' she said.

If an appearance by Mr. Brown isn't enough to draw in the crowds, the womanless beauty contest should, Ms. Keenan said.

''It's a hoot. The postmaster here in New Ellenton is even going to do it,'' Ms. Keenan said. ''The guy who won last year doesn't want to give up his crown. I don't know if he is serious or not.''

Other additions to the Atomic City Festival include hot-air balloon rides, a petting zoo, and a rock-climbing wall. Festivities begin at 10 a.m. Oct. 13, on Main Street.

Reach Carly Phillips at (803) 648-1395